Ascendancy: Game Thread

[Anti-Eagle]

Ascendancy

"It is now the 2660th year of the world by the Auroran Count, the 1900th year since the gods arose, and by my count the 1573rd year since the first of the cataclysms. It has been 726 years since the return of civilization, 720 years since word of the Yellow thing began to spread..."

"It is by the blessings of the dead ones that I have lived to see this day and it is by the curses of the dead ones that I have suffered to see this day."

"Sinan is gone..."
"626 years have passed..."
"A new time of industry has begun..."
"The grip of the Ascendant has weakened on the Earth..."
"Men walk the lands again, reclaiming their former glories..."
"One day at a time..."
"An age of man..."
"A storm is coming..."
"A new destiny..."

- fragments of a lost diary

January 1900 (Turn 1, Winter)...

The end of the world has come and went, and the machinations of the races of men have kept going. The world as safe as it has been made is still a dangerous place and the click of the world's clock is a constant reminder that we all have so little time. Even the immortals felt it.

Ah. But such wonders one could see in the short time afforded to the living.


You are free to post however you like however here is the norm from the previous games.

At the top of your post include the location and/or date in bold and/or underlined. If you change location or the time frame make such a thing clear with an additional date line. At the bottom of your post (in a spoiler) declare your actions in a clear way, whether normal actions or something you've come up with.

I'd ask that you run things through some form of spellcheck but as long as it's comprehendable I'm not worried.

---

The first turn, each player has five actions to spend without spending additional resources. Each turn after this each player has three actions. If you wish to take additional actions you must spend wealth. Four actions total costs 10 wealth, and five actions total costs 30.

If you wish to do something in secret, mark your action as secret and PM me what you're doing with said secret action.

---

Each turn lasts seven days, beginning and ending on Saturdays. The first week due to its unusual beginning will last longer, starting today (Monday the 31st) and ending on Saturday (the 12th). If you have an issue with this let me know. If you can't keep up with this schedule you have a one week action bank allowing you to post every other week if need be.

---

If you need to get in contact with me message myself through discord or in a PM here. In my absence JoJo and Novabomb are the authorities on the game world should I be unavailable.



Original Recruitment (https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/forums/read/540.842654-Mythopoeia-A-combined-Nation-and-Godgame-RP-Now-closed): https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/forums/read/540.842654-Mythopoeia-A-combined-Nation-and-Godgame-RP-Now-closed
Second Recruitment (https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/forums/read/540.854323-Mythopoeia-A-combined-Nation-and-Godgame-RP-now-recruiting#21144859): https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/forums/read/540.854323-Mythopoeia-A-combined-Nation-and-Godgame-RP-now-recruiting#21144859
Game Thread (https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/forums/read/540.843623-Mythopoeia-RP-of-gods-and-nations-game-thread-closed#20769330): https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/forums/read/540.843623-Mythopoeia-RP-of-gods-and-nations-game-thread-closed#20769330
Group (https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/groups/view/Mythopoeia-group): https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/groups/view/Mythopoeia-group



Setting Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?506647): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?506647
Rules Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?506645): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?506645
Original Recruitment Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?506837): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?506837
Second Recruitment Thread (:"http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?522244"): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?522244
Third Recruitment Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?545504): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?545504
Out-Of-Character Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?508062): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?508062
Game Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?508138): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?508138



Mythweavers Forum (https://www.myth-weavers.com/game.php?g=32204): https://www.myth-weavers.com/game.php?g=32204
Setting Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?571095): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?571095
Rules Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?572627): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?572627
Tumblr (https://luminenwalker.tumblr.com/): https://luminenwalker.tumblr.com/

GiantITP Recruitment Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?575133): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?575133
Mythweavers Recruitment Thread (https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?p=13952190): https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?p=13952190
Escapist Recruitment Thread (https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/forums/read/540.1056416): https://v1.escapistmagazine.com/forums/read/540.1056416

Game Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?577380""): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?577380
Out of Character Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?576932): http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?576932
Discord (https://discord.gg/EeHvCUk): https://discord.gg/EeHvCUk

Grand Index: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=478805
Index: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=478804
Setting: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=452723
Rules: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=454668
Applications: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=459475
Sheets: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=459477
Game: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=459852



Grand Index: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=478805
Index: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=478801



Grand Index: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=478805
Index: https://www.myth-weavers.com/showthread.php?t=478802

[Viirin]

It was freezing. Really freezing! The city southeast of Candy Mountain was sprawling, but hot. Inside the dungeon however, the temperature dropped more and more, and a change of clothing was needed. Fur, preferably.

She shivered. "How much further?"
"See the webs all over the walls?"
She looked, uncomfortable. "Yeah. What about them?"
"What are they made of?" The guide wasn't pleased about her lack of experience.
After touching one, she was surprised. "Ice."
"We're halfway there. Might start getting a little chilly soon."
She wondered how much colder it would get.

Not wanting to find out too soon, she moved her torch closer to the web. It glowed from the firelight, but didn't melt or even turn shiny from starting to do so.

"What?"
"The webs here are made of ice, and radiate it, but can't be warmed, burned, or melted."
She pulled her second cloak even tighter over herself and shivered in fear instead of cold. The blue dye and icy blue inner fur lining only made her think even more of how cold it was, and she wished she had worn something of some other color. She couldn't feel it through her gloves, but she stroked the white silk tassels next to the decorative buttons.



Increase concepts by +1 of their current bonus:

1. +1 Untraceable Income
2. +1 Treasure Chest
3. +1 Quest Reward

Create new concept:

4. Curious Trinket (+1 Influence)
Well-described items that are meant for others to investigate in some way. Who did it belong to, how did it get there, what does it do, etc.

Non-concept action:

5. A monogrammed female's very expensive down-filled parka dyed multiple shades of blue with a silk inner lining and silk tassels is found at the entrance to a dungeon with its entrance located somewhere near a city built on the northern ice barrens.

[Novabomb]

WIP

Memo: Policy update regarding employee benefits
From: Bostal Airrider, Undersecretary for the Department of Treasury, Republic of Awn.

It has come to my attention that there has been an aboundance of misuse of treasury property for the storing of employee personal wealth as well as an misuse of branch facilities for short term borrowing through the use of informal agreement to transfer the extra wealth in the next shipment. These activities are performed in ways that risk both the reputation of the department, as well as its financial responsibility through embezzelment.
The following new policies shall address this:

Employee Storage Benefit:
Employees shall be able to enter their wealth into their local vault. Retrieval of a portion, or all of it may be done free of charge, but all holdings and withdrawals must be recorded by the vault manager. Unaccounted for coin in the vault will be henceforth be considered property of the state.

Employee Branch Loan Program:
Employees shall be granted the ability to withdraw up to one month's salary funds from a branch vault to be reimbursed from the employee's own holdings, or failing that the withholding of their pay. A borrowing fee of 2% shall be applied in consideration for the extra work required in tracking and transport for this program.

These policies shall go into effect <date>


1) New Concept: Employee Storage Benefit. (+1 Unity)

2) New Concept: Employee Branch Loan Program (+1 Wealth)

3) 3x Begin Building the case for the Messenger Guild to be incorportated into the Administratum Proper. (Not sure how you want to handle this mechanically. This is the Administratum trying to swallow another faction through the use of influence.

[The JoJo]

January 1900 - The Hegemon's Palace, Xule, Union of Auroran Republics

Romana Alascane swept into her chambers, only allowing herself to deflate once the door was firmly shut behind her. It had been a long day at the Continental Congress, but no one in her position could afford to show the slightest weakness. Weakness was fatal to a hegemon of Aurora.

She shrugged off her fur coat and then the ceremonial dragon-scale carapace underneath. Beyond looking grander, the carapace also had the advantage of concealing the prominent chitin plates that ran down her back. The mark of the morian. As she stepped in front of the mirror to let down her hair, she saw a pair of green, glowing eyes reflected back at her.

"Oh, it's you again."

She reached down to stroke the scrawny fox's head.

"Missed me?" Kismet asked.

"Not particularly," Romana said. "Are you here to collect your end of the bargain?"

"Not yet." Kismet leapt up onto her seat. "Just curious to see how my little investment is going."

"Could be worse. Congress is as stubborn as ever. The Dead Republic have been dragging their feet over the proposed treaty of mutuality. And I haven't heard from the Valencian Front in several months."

"That is... concerning." Kismet pricked his ears. "Where did you last hear from them?"

"Basaltian Padonia."

"Perhaps I will pay them a visit some time, then." The fox grinned toothily. "Anything for my little investment."

[LordArgon]

WIP

Create New Concept:
Ancient Armaments - (+1 Military Conflict Rolls): The Oculiuris use advanced weapons plundered from ancient armories to gain an edge in armed conflicts.
Alchemy: Transmutation - (+1 Wealth Production): The Oculiuris use their knowledge of alchemy to create valuable materials from cheaper items.
Improve Concept:
Ruin Raiders (+1 Wealth Production)
Increase Influence:
The Union of Auroran Republics: Create schools for the less fortunate, and to recruit promising individuals.

[Anti-Eagle]

February 1900 (Turn 2, Winter)

...

December 1894 - Vesille, The Northern Raptor States

Yellow smoke drifted across the skyline as the assault began. Music blared from a speaker on the absurdly quick helicopter as gunfire rained from the Gatling cannons down on the things below.

It was a good day despite the circumstances. It had been years since they'd been allowed to bring the helicopters out. The right fuel for the ancient craft was too hard to produce to use them for everyday operations, or so they said. It was a hard won skill that the jumpers had learned to pilot them, to shoot accurately at the high speeds they obtained in the craft, and to rappel from the open doors down to the ground.

They were necessary skills to fight the yellow quickly and effectively in these days. Armed and armoured with the best they had at their disposal they carried Solothurn avto rifles to clear the streets and tunnels from the yellow, large multi-barreled rifles designed to fire several different calibers and types of bullets and used multiple magazines of ammunition. They wore the faceless Aegishjalmur masks to protect against poisons, and plated Vegvisir armour developed centuries ago with occult practices to guard the bodies and spirits of its wearers.

The tools they carried on their bodies were varied but the purpose was clear. Extermination.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8H-5E_i7b8

January 1900 - The Isle of Bedlam, The Ajivhan Khaganate

It was raining when the ship docked in Bedlam, unsurprising. It rained very nearly every day and every hour around the now ancient asylum complex. No one was completely sure why but some, including Red, thought that the sheer number of broken minds warped the forces of nature around the spires of the small city.

The walk wasn't very long from the silver gates of the docks to the small garden and entrance to the cells his old friend lived in now.


The Vatnahlifir
Create a Concept - Fedai (+1 to Military Conflict Rolls) - The core of the Vatnahlifir are composed of Fedai, Fedayeen, literally meaning "Those Who Sacrifice." Hardened and extremely disciplined forces dedicated to Sinan and the dream of Ajivha they are highly skilled soldiers and spies.

Develop a Concept - Garbed in Sanctity (+2 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - Investigators (+2 to Espionage Conflict Rolls)
Develop a Concept - Relic Hunters (+2 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - Sacred Armaments (+2 to Military Conflict Rolls)

Kismet
Create a Concept - Investment (+1 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept x4 - Investment (+5 to Wealth Production)

The Exterminator's Guild
Develop a Concept - Untraceable Income (+5)
Develop a Concept - Treasure Chest (+3)
Develop a Concept - Quest Reward (+2)
Create a Concept - Curious Trinket (+1 Influence)

5. A monogrammed female's very expensive down-filled parka dyed multiple shades of blue with a silk inner lining and silk tassels is found at the entrance to a dungeon with its entrance located somewhere near a city built on the northern ice barrens.


The Administratum of Awn
Create a Concept - Employee Storage Benefit. (+1 Unity)
Create a Concept - Employee Branch Loan Program (+1 Wealth)
3) 3x Begin Building the case for the Messenger Guild to be incorporated into the Administratum Proper.

The Oculiuris (One Action Saved)
Create a Concept - Ancient Armaments (+1 Military Conflict Rolls): The Oculiuris use advanced weapons plundered from ancient armories to gain an edge in armed conflicts.
Create a Concept Alchemy: Transmutation (+1 Wealth Production): The Oculiuris use their knowledge of alchemy to create valuable materials from cheaper items.
Develop a Concept - Ruin Raiders (+3 Wealth Production)
Increase Influence - The Union of Auroran Republics: Create schools for the less fortunate, and to recruit promising individuals.

The Crimson Enigmas (Five Actions Saved)

[Novabomb]

1) Develop Concept Employee Branch Program.
2) Develop Concept Tax Collector.
3) Continue Campaign to absorb the Messenger Guild.

[Anti-Eagle]

March 1900 (Turn 3, Spring)

...

December 1894 - Vesille, The Northern Raptor States

Red looked on through his eyeless mask as he grabbed the rope and slid down into the fogged yellow-coated streets, gunfire echoing out around him. Men ran ragged in the streets, wearing yellow paint or running from men covered in yellow paint, as abominations stalked the streets seeking to kill or forcibly convert those they hadn't already taken as the city turned into a charnel house of smoke and meat.

Short pops went off as they eyed their first target on the streets and the thing fell. A stinking Yellow thing of chitin and fangs, its yellow burning blood painting the street.

January 1900 - The Isle of Bedlam, The Ajivhan Khaganate

Red left his pistol and his mask with the attendant as he entered the asylum, a wretched and beautiful place engineered in the past to contain those they couldn't control. The cell he was looking for was... number 511 on the Eastern side of the isle. It contained his old friend, Pyotr. And every year he came and spoke with him, made sure the guards were treating him well, though that was never a concern with the phantoms. As insane as they became they were treated as the princes of old the moment they crossed the line between soldier and inmate.

He passed through hall of wretch after wretch before he found the cell, and it was empty. Well aside from the books, bed, and holy marks coating the walls.

After finding an orderly he found out that Pyotr was at the central gardens today, he had been going for the past month apparently.


The Vatnahlifir
Create a Concept - A Frozen Forest (+1 to Unity Production) - Spoken to the increasingly damaged psyches of the phantoms of Bedlam is the mantra of the Frozen Forest, a peaceful and effective mantra that soothes the minds of the inmates or so it is claimed. The words are believed to be sourced from an ancient and little known manuscript scavenged from the ancient aetherial collective.

Create a Concept - Hunger (+1 to Unity Production) - The phantoms of the Vatnahlifir are often afflicted with a particular psychosis, a hunger, composed of a variety of conditions. Though they will never starve they feel a deep hunger that manifests in a variety of ways, usually for flesh in one way or another, though it has found other ways to appear.

Create a Concept - Oneiric Visions (+1 to Unity Production) - The phantoms of the Vatnahlifir often dream of the aether and the land of Arcadia, stories of their dead and ancestors are often shared in ceremonies and meetings between the phantoms and the various priests and certain honoured guests of the Khaganate.

Kismet
Develop a Concept x3 - Investment (+8 to Wealth Production)

The Administratum of Awn
1) Develop Concept Employee Branch Program (+2 Wealth)
2) Develop Concept Tax Collector (+4 Wealth)
3) Continue Campaign to absorb the Messenger Guild.

The Oculiuris (Four Actions Saved)

The Crimson Enigmas (Five Actions Saved)

[The JoJo]

March 1900 - The Channel Sea

Kismet let the wind carry him like a bird up and down the Channel. First to New Ajivha to barter with a struggling farmer. Then west to the Harconin, where he snagged a bargain with a maiden who wanted to elope on her wedding day. It was as he was soaring back towards Lyseria that he suddenly remembered his promise to Romana Alascane.

His conspiracy of ravens were sharp-eyed, but they were not infallible, and so far they had failed to turn up any solid leads on the whereabouts of the Basaltian rebels. That either meant they were better at hiding than he had expected, or they had been stamped out altogether. Either worked for him.


~

Isle of Pesh, Dead Republic

The long ages had not been kind to Badger. Even immortality had its limits, apparently, as his skin hung in loose folds, and he had long since given up trying to trim his beard. Most of his kinsmen had long since disappeared from the world; some having lost their minds locked away in forgotten tombs; others chained up and tossed over the side of a ship into the ocean depths. The crushing dark of the abyss the closest one could get to oblivion. But still Badger clung on, more out of duty than anything else.

If he had known what it would lead to, would he choose to receive the blessing again? Hard to say. He would have been long old and grey, if not dead, before he had ever got a chance to meet Aurelius Daigoro as a mortal, true. But then too quickly the princeling had grown into a man, and then an elder, and then into the history books. His life had been a brightly burning spark, compared to Badger's unending trudge...

He heard someone, or something, stumble in the dark. He looked up to see a small figure dressed in a red and gold robe. His pale, delicate skin contrasted with his untidy mop of black hair, whilst his lips were curled in the ghost of a smirk.

"I can tell it's you, Kismet," Badger said softly. "You never get the eyes right."

He wasn't sure why the little imp delighted in torturing him this way. Kismet bounced up to him with a sly grin, placing his hands on the ancient immortal's knees.

"I'm looking for some rebels from the Basalt Empire. Valencian Front. Know anything?"

"I might." This was a familiar routine.

"One year?" Kismet asked, offering out a vial of inky black liquid. Oblivion in a glass container. A weaker cousin to the draft that had put Badger to sleep for centuries under Xule. He suspected that Kismet probably could locate the stronger stuff if he really wanted to, but then why would he want risk losing his best source of information?

"Two, at least."

"One and a half."

"One and a half, and you don't bother me again until next winter."

"We have a deal," Kismet said, grinning. He deposited a pair of vials into Badger's great hands, which the man then stowed away in a wooden chest. A repository, should he feel the need to take an extended break from consciousness some time in the future. "Well then?" the little imp asked impatiently.

"You'll find the Valencian Front holed up in Osyth, middle Padonia. They were trying to jump the border to lie low for a while, but ended up trapped before they could make it. Look for a man named Akir. If he's still alive, that is."

[LordArgon]

March 1900 - Dead Republic
Sindros threw his hands up in exultation, as another set of hands were raised from the table in front of him. After figuring out how to turn lead to gold, he had all of the funding to reach his real goal, creating life. After a month of nonstop research and experimenting, he had done it. While it was only the size of his hand, it was a big step towards making sentient homunculi.


Create Concept
Alchemy: Homunculus (+1 Influence Production)
Improve concept
Alchemy: Transmutation (+1 Wealth Production)
Thousand Eyes (+1 Espionage Conflict Roles)
Of One Mind (+1 Unity Production)
Increase Influence
-Dead Republic
-Republic of Awn

[Novabomb]

1) Create Concept Liberty Guild Guards
2) Develop Concept Liberty Guild.
3) Continue Campaign to absorb the Messenger Guild.

[Anti-Eagle]

April 1900 (Turn 4, Spring)

...

December 1894 - Vesille, The Northern Raptor States

Finding the way to the tunnels didn't take very long, the buildings had been sighted ahead of time and they weren't exactly hidden. The plan was to blow holes in the buildings to collapse them with blasting oil and trinity sticks, then breach the rubble to enter the tunnels.

It was an easy plan that had worked in the past. It made sure there was only one entrance at the site and killed anything in the way.

War shields were dropped from the helicopter down onto the streets and Reds team moved quick to collect them after the bombs were set. They would need them in the confines of the tunnel complexes or gods forbid the cultists formed firing lines in the streets.

After the explosions they readied themselves and set the lyddite charge on the mound of broken buildings. The fun part was just ahead.

January 1900 - The Isle of Bedlam, The Ajivhan Khaganate

"Listen only to the sound of my voice."
"Let your mind relax. Let your thoughts drift."
"Let the bad memories fade. Let peace be upon you."
"Surrender yourself to your dreams."
"Let them wash over you like the gentle waves of the bluest ocean."
"Let them envelop you. Comfort you."

The broadcast over the loud speakers was new to Red, and wasn't something he was particularly fond of despite the calming effect it had. It was too... he wasn't sure. It didn't help that it was spoken in Aetheric.

"Imagine somewhere calm."
"Imagine somewhere safe."
"Imagine yourself in a frozen forest."
"You're standing in a clearing."
"Trees around you so tall, they touch the sky."
"Pure white snowflakes fall all around."
"You can feel them melt on your skin."
"You are not cold."
"It cannot overcome the warmth of your beating heart."
"Can you hear it?"
"You only have to listen."

Wandering through the lush gardens of Bedlam, it didn't take very long to find Pyotr. Sitting. Meditating. Gaunt and sickly looking.

"Can you hear it slowing?"
"You're slowing it."
"You are in control."
"Calm."
"At peace."


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - A Frozen Forest (+2 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Hunger (+2 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Oneiric Visions (+2 to Unity Production)


Kismet
Create a Concept - Searching (+1 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept x2 - Searching (+3 to Wealth Production)

The Administratum of Awn
1) Create Concept Liberty Guild Guards (+1 to Military Conflict rolls)
2) Develop Concept Liberty Guild (+3 Influence Production)
3) Continue Campaign to absorb the Messenger Guild.

The Oculiuris (One Action Saved)
Create Concept - Alchemy: Homunculus (+1 Influence Production)
Develop a concept - Alchemy: Transmutation (+2 Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - Thousand Eyes (+2 Espionage Conflict Roles)
Develop a Concept - Of One Mind (+4 Unity Production)
Increase Influence - Dead Republic
Increase Influence -Republic of Awn

The Crimson Enigmas (Five Actions Saved)

[kemmotar]

April 1900 (Turn 4, Spring) - The Specialist Collector Collective

On a bright and cool spring morning, a messenger boy appeared at the front door of the headquarters of Administratum of Awn bearing a sealed letter addressed:

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
FROM THE AWN BRANCH OF THE SCC
FOR THE OFFICIAL ATTENTION OF PERSON IN CHARGE FOR COMMERCIAL MATTERS

++++

Having obtained official permission from the Headquarters of our collective to engage in commercial negotiations with the great and noble Administratum of Awn, we of the Collective would like to formally request the opportunity to meet with your representatives in order to investigate mutually profitable business. In addition, the collective would consider placing deposits for safekeeping with the administratum should such be of interest.

Faithfully yours,
Raderick Fracht
Branch Manager on behalf of SCC, Awn Branch.

[Novabomb]

To Raderick Fracht Branch Manager on behalf of SCC, Awn Branch.

Greetings,
Welcome to the Republic of Awn. We are pleased that you have elected to settle in our humble nation.
The Administratum would be happy to discuss your specific needs. We would welcome a representative at <date> if that is suitable for you. Attached are a few forms which help us understand the scope of your buisness so that we may accomodate you appropriately. Additionally a brief on the regulations concerning trade are contained.

Sincerely,
Senior Clerk Estuary, Home Branch of the Administratum of Awn



1) Send Representative to SCC
2) Create Concept Company Forms (+ Espionage)
3) Create Concept Trade Regulation (+ Wealth)

[Anti-Eagle]

May 1900 (Turn 5, Spring)

...

December 1894 - Vesille, The Northern Raptor States

Red was the first one down into the man-sized tunnel. He always was. Officers served at the front. That was the way of Ajivha, especially the Vatnahlifir.

His mask kept everything light and visible as he marched into the darkness, his gun peeking out from behind his shield. The moment he saw something he'd let loose a volley of silenced fire and that would be the end of it. There were very rarely anyone in these tunnels that didn't need to die. Never anyone that could be saved.

Pyotr and the rest walked a few feet behind him in succession shields and rifles at the ready for the first branch.

January 1900 - The Isle of Bedlam, The Ajivhan Khaganate

"Pyotr?"

Reddened dead-looking blue eyes turned to meet Red's and a souless voice replied, "Yes?"

Pyotr looked as if he had been starving to death for years and Red wasn't sure if that was disease or choice. He had been gaunt even when he was fighting but this was sickening. Though he thought this wasn't the first he had seen of this in his work as a chaplain, and it was still probably healthier than eating nails or other assorted inedibles like so many took to.

"Pyotr... It's me. Rederick."

"Rhetoric?" The gaunt man looked puzzled for a few moments before speaking again, "Rhetoric, it's been too long... too long. Where have you been?"

"I've been working in the North, there's been another outbreak."

"Another?... I had hoped it had been over the last time."

"The war never ends... Let's sit. Speak. How have they been treating you?"


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - A Frozen Forest (+3 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Hunger (+3 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Oneiric Visions (+3 to Unity Production)

Kismet
Develop a Concept x3 - Searching (+6 to Wealth Production)

The Administratum of Awn
1) Send Representative to SCC
2) Create Concept Company Forms (+1 Espionage)
3) Create Concept Trade Regulation (+1 Wealth)

The Oculiuris (Four Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Three Actions Saved)

[kemmotar]

May 1900 - The Specialist Collector Collective

The Awn delegation was welcomed to the Awn branch of the SCC, the outpost was simple but functional, geared towards work more than pleasure. Drinks and light snacks were presented and some pleasantries offered before the delegation got down to business.

The forms had been filled in, Raderick apologetically noting that some questions could only be answered by vague statements or simply marked as proprietary information and he hoped that would not provide an impediment.

The SCC are interested in exploring the provision of commodities at a more competitive price than that which is currently prevalent. This would entail larger and more long term contracts but would benefit both parties.

[kemmotar]

previous turn actions:
1) enhance concept: perks
2) enhance concept: blacklist
3) enhance concept: loyalty

reserve 3 actions

[The JoJo]

Osyth, Padonia, Empire of the Basalt Obelisk

Akir boarded down the last window hatch, before cocking his black market Ajivhan rifle. He was under no illusion of the futility of the coming skirmish. He, and the ragged group of men who had stuck with him to the end, would certainly die. But it was a better death than rotting away inside a Basaltian dungeon, and at least this way they would set an example for future revolutionaries.

"For the revolution!" he exclaimed. "For the people!" He only received bleary-eyed looks in response.

"How... touching." He heard a woman's voice behind him. He spun around to see a figure in a long flowing dress, her green eyes contrasting against the drabness of their surroundings.

"Who are you?! How did you get in here?"

"My name is Kismet. Have you not heard of me?"

Akir shook his head. Behind him, one of men called out, "The dealmaker!"

"Very good," Kismet said, in the manner of an approving schoolmistress. "I have been sent far and wide to find you, and frankly, I expected more. Nevertheless, I have a bargain to offer. If you wouldn't prefer to end up on the tips of Basaltian bayonets, that is."

"So the gods are on our side!" another of the men exclaimed. Kismet merely smiled.

"I offer this piece of cloth. It may look old and threadbare, but raise it as a banner and you will have victory in battle no less than three times. After that, you will be masters of your own fate once more."

Kismet handed the blood red flag over to Akir, who reluctantly took it.

"And what do you ask for in return?" the revolutionary asked sceptically.

"Only a small favour. After the third use, I will return to claim the flag, and the most precious possession of the final wielder. Good luck."

-Create magical item -- the Fated Flag. Gives a bonus when raised in combat three times, with a special price to pay on the third occasion. (If possible, use all three actions to give the maximum possible bonus to the flag. If not, assign the other two to growing influence in the Empire of the Basalt Throne and the Harconin Protectorate.)

[LordArgon]

May 1900 - Dead Republic




Improve concept
Alchemy: Transmutation (+1 Wealth Production)
Alchemy: Homunculus (+1 influence production)
Thousand Eyes (+1 Espionage Conflict Roles)
Of One Mind (+1 Unity Production)
Increase Influence
-Dead Republic

[Joshua Dolphin]

May 1900 - The city of Svalt

"The people have demands!"
"Military actions are not necessary!"
"If we make an army we can defend our people"
"If we make an army we only encourage others to attack us"
The Krakari people's house of svalt was filled with people yelling at each other and heated debate. The noise just continued to escalate until Svigi Halm stood in the centre of the room and struck the ground with his stick. The first strike did not do much but he continued till the entire house quietened. Svigi was an elderly Krakari, the oldest in the entire house. He stood 5' 3'' and had a slight hunch.
"This anarchy is not what produces success." the old krakari said "Now I understand that more and more conflicts are starting everyday and this threatens our way of life but do you remember any time a war has come near the borders of our great city. Not once has an army approached or dare attempted an attack. The value of our city is surely great but the value of its peoples trust is surely of more value to them."
It was clear the views of Svigi were not held by most in the room but being the oldest and longest serving member in the house they respected him greatly.
A tall and young Krakari named Makir stood up to address the group "As many of you know I am the representative of the border guard within this house. We see many crimes attempted daily on our roads and stop them at every point. The issue is each month we see more and more crimes and we see larger groups of bandits trying their luck. We have enough resources right now but without greater resources I truly fear we will not have the strength to even guarantee the safety of our own roads anymore let alone our entire border from an enemy assault." Makir sat down.
A murmur of agreement came from the house members. The borders and promise of protection on their roads was believed to be a critical part of effective trade within the city and if that system no longer worked it could greatly affect trade and tourism. Money was the main concern of anyone is the parliament system of Svalt after all.
Finally a Krakari women by the name of Astir Rivelt stood up to address the room "I propose we devote time and money towards developing our border guard as a start towards strengthening our defences. Following that we will send a diplomat to the Vatnahlifir and ask for their pledge to protect us if war time does come."
The house murmured in agreement and it was settled.


Action 1: Diplomacy: establish a trade/ formal treaty - a deal with the Vatnahlifir
Action 2: Concept: develop a new concept - Border defence: The city of Svalt is devoted to defending its borders and roads. +1 to military rolls
Action 3: Search a ruins

[Anti-Eagle]

June 1900 (Turn 6, Summer)

...

December 1894 - Vesille, The Northern Raptor States

By the time they had found him, he had completely lost it. Naked and covered in the acid-blood of the yellow things as it burned into his flesh. Unsupervised and in the darkness of the grotto Pyotr had decided in his wisdom after the dozens of battles he had been in against the Yellow that he needed to embrace the taboo and understand the enemy, understand their flesh, and drink their blood.

He had to be dragged kicking and screaming from the tunnels in the midst of the combat he had become a liability. And it pained Red to drag his long friend and subordinate through it.

January 1900 - The Isle of Bedlam, The Ajivhan Khaganate

Pyotr tapped his bandaged fingers on the small glass table between them, humming and looking through his dead eyes at Rederick trying to see into his soul, "I... I've been having dreams. Not the normal ones. These ones are worse. My magic is barely under control now."

"... What kind of dreams?"

"They're nightmares but they're not like the normal ones. Beyond the memories, the corruptions, the fire. It's like seeing beyond the walls of his ancient memories. I dream of the hunger, and where it comes from. I think I'm close. I... hear voices now. They're a choir."

"What have you-?"

Pyotr slowly began to unbandage his hands and fingers exposing bone and sinew and badly healed scars and infections. "They found me eating my hands last week. I was screaming about teeth, or so I've been told. It's not the first time. I can only remember them in a haze at best but I think I know where it comes from."

Rederick stared hard at his old friend, and after a few moments, so he dumped the glasses on the table and poured into them from a flask of koronahol he kept in his coat. In his years as a chaplain he had seen many a thing, but not in those he was close to. He wondered how long it would be before Pyotr was taken for testing like so many who claimed to see the beyond.


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - A Frozen Forest (+4 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Hunger (+4 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Oneiric Visions (+4 to Unity Production)
Diplomacy - Send a weapons shipment to the Sveit

Kismet
Create an Artifact - The Fated Flag (Provides +6 to combat three times, before extracting a cost)

The Administratum of Awn (Three Actions Saved)

The Oculiuris (Three Actions Saved)
Improve concept
Alchemy: Transmutation (+3 Wealth Production)
Alchemy: Homunculus (+2 influence production)
Thousand Eyes (+3 Espionage Conflict Roles)
Of One Mind (+5 Unity Production)
Increase Influence
-Dead Republic

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)
1) enhance concept: perks (+2 Unity)
2) enhance concept: blacklist (+2 Unity)
3) enhance concept: loyalty (+1 Unity)

The Sveit
Action 1: Diplomacy: establish a trade/ formal treaty - a deal with the Vatnahlifir
Action 2: Concept: develop a new concept - Border defence: The city of Svalt is devoted to defending its borders and roads. +1 to military rolls
Action 3: Search a ruins

[kemmotar]

June 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective.

Life at the various outposts moved at a pace that the traders of the collective were not unused to, that is relatively quiet life interspersed with moments of panic and desperate activity.

However, trade and money kept flowing back and forth through the outposts in close communication with one another. Some were informed guessts, some gambles but in the end, the collective always managed to make a profit.

The negotiations with the Awn were taking longer than expected, however, and so a decision was made to expand the search.

To this end dignitaries and other worthies of all nations and organisations would be invited to a lavish party to be held at the home of the Collective, an ancient mansion of auroran heritage in the old capital of the empire.

The party would be attended by the most influential and powerful members of the collective and guests would be able to enjoy exotic foods and drink imported from around the known world and of course no party would be complete without a surprise attraction to be revealed only at the end.

In order to allow for sufficient preparations from both sides, the party would take place 4 months hence. Any RSVPs should be delivered to the local SCC outpost and the representative of any nation or organisation would be welcome and expected.


Send out invitations
Party preparations
enhance concept: perks

[The JoJo]

June 1900 - The Deep Mountains

Even on an isolated mountain, news of the SCC party reached Kismet, as ever, by raven. He was embroiled in a tribal conflict among the Deep Tribes, having sponsored either side some years earlier, but nevertheless made a mental note to attend when the time came. In disguise, of course.

[Novabomb]

1-2) Continue Campaign to absorb the Messenger Guild.
3) Develop the Employee Loan program.
4) Begin plans to create the 1st National Bank of Awn. (New concept built from Employee Loan program)
5) Create concept, auditor's division (Concept coming from Guild Oversight)

[LordArgon]

June 1900 - Dead Republic
As it is the only branch of the Oculiuris to have a public headquarters, the Dead Republic branch received the invitation to the party. Seeing as so many influential guests would be attending, it was decided that some preparations would be necessary, both in the looks and spooks departments.


Diplomacy
Respond to the party invitation stating our intent to accept the invitation.
B]Improve concept[/B]
Thousand Eyes (+1 Espionage Conflict Roles)
Of One Mind (+1 Unity Production)
Increase Influence
-Dead Republic
-Republic of Awn

[Anti-Eagle]

July 1900 (Turn 7, Summer)

"Listen only to the sound of my voice."
"Let your mind relax. Let your thoughts drift."
"Let the bad memories fade. Let peace be upon you."
"Surrender yourself to your dreams."
"Let them wash over you like the gentle waves of the bluest ocean."
"Let them envelop you. Comfort you."

"Imagine somewhere calm."
"Imagine somewhere safe."
"Imagine yourself in a frozen forest."
"You're standing in a clearing."
"Trees around you so tall, they touch the sky."
"Pure white snowflakes fall all around."
"You can feel them melt on your skin."
"You are not cold."
"It cannot overcome the warmth of your beating heart."
"Can you hear it?"
"You only have to listen."

"Can you hear it slowing?"
"You're slowing it."
"You are in control."
"Calm."
"At peace."

...

In the month of July, a party of Ajivhan diplomats, working for Project Covenant, dressed in green finery journied from their offices in Valthee to the site of the Specialist Collectors Collective and their party bearing ceremonial arms and gifts of medicinal tonics.


The Vatnahlifir
Create a Concept - Mass Indoctrination (+1 to Unity Production) - From the highest office to the farthest servant, the Vatnahlifir has a mission to indoctrinate its members to loyally serve the cause to the death. How it accomplishes this varies significantly, often beginning as young children, but it extends beyond their own members with the general activity of the cult of Sinan and its influence across the Khaganate.

Create a Concept - Bjofastafur (+1 to Unity Production) - The Bjofastafur device developed in the year 1191 by occultists within the Vatnahlifir to safeguard their secrets and general human intelligence against enemy acquisition. Implanted into the bodies of every single member of the Vatnahlifir and certain allies, the Bjofastafur device is a bundle of living metal, kaplo, and simulacra crystal. The carefully sculpted simulacra crystal is used as a vial to hold the alchemically treated wild mage blood necessary for the function of the device. When the symbiotically merged simulacra crystal detects certain foreign taints such as spirit possession or recombinant infection it violently spreads through any already unclaimed parts of the body to seize the soul, before setting the blood on fire an incinerating the body.

Create a Concept - Stimulants (+1 to Unity Production) - The Vatnahlifir, especially their phantoms, make extensive use of a wide variety of stimulants, alchemical or otherwise. The drug of choice is an alchemical entheogen known as Thyrazine, which they manufacture from genned crops derived from the ancient aetherial collective. Thyrazine, they claim, strengthens the mind and soul against outside influences. It also heightens senses, quickens thought, and strengthens the body.

Diplomacy - Attend the SCC party.


Kismet
Create a Concept - Profiteer (+1 Wealth)
Develop a Concept x2 - Profiteer (+3 Wealth)

The Administratum of Awn (One Action Saved)
1-2) Continue Campaign to absorb the Messenger Guild.
3) Develop the Employee Loan program. (+3 Wealth)
4) Begin plans to create the 1st National Bank of Awn. (+1 Wealth)
5) Create concept, auditor's division (+1 Wealth)

The Oculiuris (One Action Saved)
Diplomacy
Respond to the party invitation stating our intent to accept the invitation.
Improve concept
Thousand Eyes (+1 Espionage Conflict Roles)
Of One Mind (+1 Unity Production)
Increase Influence
-Dead Republic
-Republic of Awn

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)
Send out invitations
Party preparations
enhance concept: perks (+3 Unity)

The Sveit (Three Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Three Actions Saved)

[kemmotar]

June 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective //Valthee Branch

The diplomatic party were at first greeted by a completely unprepared junior aide, given the lack of advance notice. Thankfully the aide knew just enough to not ask the party to make an appointment and return. Meetings were interrupted and with maginificent speed and efficiency (and a few minor disgruntled traders) the honoured guests were quickly shown into the most lavish meeting room. A variety of beverages as well as cold and hot delicacies were served.

A short wait later, the mistress of the trading house, a human woman announced by an aide as Mohana Karsus, appeared at the door and greeted the guests warmly. Mohana was dressed in a sapphire blue silk robe, tied at the waste with a golden rope, that complimented her olive skin and blue eyes.

Honoured guests, we are much pleased by your coming and have long desired to speak with representatives of the khaganate. We thank you for your gifts which will be cherished. In return, though we would be unable to match the value of your gifts and so we ask you accept them in the spirit in which they are given, we would like to offer you these ornamental pistols, though they are only replicas, of an ancient type used by the Auroran Empire armies. We have it on good authority that they are very close to the original design. We hope they please you.

We of the collective are here to serve and provide your needs. May we offer you any additional or alternative refreshments ? We have an excellent vintage of a special concoction brewed by specialist creators of the republic, each one is meant to evoke a different emotion. Presently we have an excellent example of a vintage that evokes what one feels when watching a particularly brutal storm from the warmth and safety of one's castle.

[Moon_Dusk]

Frozen South
July 3rd 1900

With a great crack the ice wall of a tunnel is opened revealing the open chamber the old hive had. The tall lithe creature glances about the old chamber before its mandibles clacked together. We have found an empty chamber Central Mind the Jerlin's sleek skull twitched as it received its orders, with a scrape of talons the new doorway is marked and the receding tail of the Jerlin is soon rounding a corner. A few minutes later the heavy stomps of a large creature echos from the hall, finally the Central Mind's immense head peaks into the room. With a self assured chuckle it slithers into the room and glances about before finding a hatch in the 'ceiling' I require a Drone in sub-sector 9S. Almost immediately a drone squeezes past the bulk of the Central Mind and starts scraping at the ice bound hatch, in a few minutes the hatch is cleared of ice. As the Central Mind examines the hatch it suddenly opens by itself, on the other side is a metallic face-plate of a Golem, “Swarm encountered, defensive measures active.” Within moments the hatch was closed and seemed to lock in place. Within the time span the Central Mind waited for an appropriate time to issue orders, before eventually the drone within the room bolts to the end of the hall and starts building defenses seconds later the other one who was digging a bit a ways joins in soon after. The Central Mind then slithers out of the room. It leaves a drone at the doorway to intercept any Golems that come out.

Heightened Security (+1 Espionage)
Shaky Diplomacy(+1 influence)
Rapid Expansion(+1 Unity)

[Joshua Dolphin]

June 1900 - The Mirinan Docks

The early morning fog hung over the heads of the workers as it did every other day. The workers had come from far and wide to work on the Heill road. The Safest and fastest road to ever be built was its claim to fame but for months already progress had been halted by nature. The road was made from a magically enchanted mixture of clay, crushed stone and water. Today was the last day of work where the two ends of the road would meet and the Heill road would be complete for super fast travel between the Mirinan docks and the city of Svalt.

The City of Svalt

Astir Rivelt sat at her desk dictating to her scribe. "We of the great city of Svalt extend our hospitality to you. We are hosting a great party where peoples of all varieties may come to socialise. We will offer accommodation and all requirements to our esteemed guests. We hope to see you here on August 14th."
The guest list for the event was quite extensive to say the least. Astir expected maybe 10% of the people invited would arrive but even that would be a lot of people. Astir was in charge of all the preparation for the event and she was quite busy due to it.


Action 1: Improve concept: Developed Travel Infrastructure
Action 2: Improve concept: Developed Travel Infrastructure
Action 3: Improve concept: Developed Travel Infrastructure
Action 4: use magical message means to send out the invitation
Action 5: Improve Strong Industry and Trade
Action 6: Merge Ajivhan arms and border defence

[Anti-Eagle]

August 1900 (Turn 8, Summer)

Tare had known she was different for as long as she could remember. The fairies told her as such. The voices. They came to her and told her of the world and the world beyond. Who she could trust. Her mother. Who she couldn't. Her father. They taught her how to deal with the bullies. How to sharpen the stones and make it look like an accident.

She was never to speak of them or what they told her though. No matter how trustworthy they seemed, this was her secret.

The Specialist Collectors Collective

The diplomats accepted the gift happily, examining the ornamental pistols carefully and examining the barrels wondering how much work would be needed to make them functional.

They then accepted the exotic liquor and looked positively pleased at the odd flavour and its effect. As much magic as they had at their disposal, theirs looked... less by comparison.


The Frozen South

The automatons sat in the dark watching the open hatch for hours as they contemplated the meaning of the recombinants, reactivating their components had taken alot out of them after a millenia of silent waiting, watching, expecting rescue from the century bunker or gokvahar. not that they knew what had happened to their ancient seats of power.

When the runic controls had failed them, they drifted until they were shot down by what they could only guess was Grat or Auroran artillery. And then they locked the hatches and sealed the breach, waiting for anyone. The cataclysms came and went as they waited in the darkness, watching their now ancient cargo, dismantling what they had to and repairing themselves for the long wait ahead of them as the ice spread further and further North.

For all they knew, they were the only ones left. And so their leader, a clockwork machine named Masih designed to pilot the ancient vessel, poked his seven eyed head out into the tunnel and spoke with a rumbling tinny voice "Hello! Is there anyone out there!"


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - Mass Indoctrination (+2 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Bjofastafur (+2 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Stimulants (+2 to Unity Production)
Diplomacy - Accept Invitation to Sveit Party

Kismet

The Administratum of Awn (Four Actions Saved)

The Oculiuris (Four Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit
Action 1: Improve concept: Developed Travel Infrastructure
Action 2: Improve concept: Developed Travel Infrastructure
Action 3: Improve concept: Developed Travel Infrastructure
Action 4: use magical message means to send out the invitation
Action 5: Improve Strong Industry and Trade
Action 6: Merge Ajivhan arms and border defence

Hive of Ice (Three Actions Saved)
Heightened Security (+1 Espionage)
Shaky Diplomacy(+1 influence)
Rapid Expansion(+1 Unity)

[kemmotar]

August 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective

And so my friends, with introductions out of the way, how may the collective be of service to the Khaganate? Have you come looking for the provision of goods and commodities? or perhaps is there some more...special request with which we may be of service?

Mohana asked the representatives of the Khaganate.

[Anti-Eagle]

September 1900 (Turn 9, Fall)

Her secret. The fairies, came to her after the first time her father had beaten her. An old Auroran man, that drank near constantly. Beat her when he was too drunk or angry. The voices told her that his time would come and that she would soon take her anger out on him and that he'd never be able to hurt her again...


The Specialists Collectors Collective

The representatives of the Khaganate mentioned their particular interests in rare weapons, new drugs, and artifacts in general. Though they had their own trade in the obscure they were almost always interested in expanding their range of acquisitions through further groups.

Their highest priorities in foreign acquisitions as mentioned were rare and obscure weapons, new drugs with which they could experiment, and magical artifacts of their ancient past. For all they had moved forward it was difficult to convince them of the value of something that couldn't be used in warfare or killing.


The Svalt

A party of high ranking covenant officers arrived in the Sveit as instructed in their invitations bearing gifts of medicine and alcohol.



The Frozen South

Masih poked his head out of the hatch, "Hello! Is anyone out there!" The tunnels echoed with his rumbling tinny voice as he looked into the darkness. Masih took a few steps out into the ice tunnel with his gangly serrated limbs and looks at the drone before him, "Hello... Friend? Would you mind telling me how what year it is?.. We've been buried for quite some time, our connections are down, no one came for us, we slept for some years..."


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - Mass Indoctrination (+3 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Bjofastafur (+3 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Stimulants (+3 to Unity Production)

Kismet

The Administratum of Awn (Five Actions Saved)

The Oculiuris (Four Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Three Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Five Actions Saved)

[Moon_Dusk]

The Frozen South

Masih poked his head out of the hatch, "Hello! Is anyone out there!" The tunnels echoed with his rumbling tinny voice as he looked into the darkness. Masih took a few steps out into the ice tunnel with his gangly serrated limbs and looks at the drone before him, "Hello... Friend? Would you mind telling me how what year it is?.. We've been buried for quite some time, our connections are down, no one came for us, we slept for some years..."
Frozen South
September 1900
As the drone stood at its post for many months it finally saw one of the metal golems peek its head out. With a series of rapid telepathic messages bouncing within the Hive Mind it finally perked up and opened a mouth with rows of serrated teeth, "Follow us Metal Golem. Our Central Mind knows all." With that the drone slithered around the golem heading to the end of the hall. Deep within the Hive the Central Mind disentangled itself from various nodes in a wall and made way to the Central Hall. After it has reached the Hall it sets out a wave like message to the entirety of the Hive, "Jerlin! We are at the precipice of greatness! Come to the Central Hall, and witness our guest in our heart!" At this thousands of Jerlin barrel through the various tunnels, halls, rooms, and alcoves. The drone escorting the Golem waits at the end of the tunnel looking back expectantly.

Great Gathering (+1 unity)(-1 espionage)
Reverence of Greatness (+1 Unity)(-1 Diplomacy)
Horrific Sight: The Central Mind's visage is one of nightmares (-1 Diplomacy)
Rapid Expansion Buff Removed

[Anti-Eagle]

The Frozen South

Masih followed the drone through the tunnels, and watched in awe at the swarming creatures in the chamber. It had been... centuries he supposed since he had seen so many creatures, and it made him wonder of the state of the world. The reference to a central mind, the alert, and the sheer number of creatures. Were these recombinants as they remembered them? No one came for them, and as far as he knew they had been exterminated so... what did that mean?

"Hello," he says to the gathered Jerlin. "My name is Masih, my crew and I have been lost for some time and we were wondering if you could help us?"

[kemmotar]

September 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective

The party of the SCC is a well appointed affair mixing to great effect both classical and tasteful food, drink and decoration with just enough of the exotically debauched to maintain the interest of the patrons without offending some of those more sensitively disposed. The Mansion of the headquarters, normally abuzz with trading activity had been emptied of all business related furniture and papers to allow for enough open spaces for the many guests, some being traders or owners of mines and large farms, others being buyers or even some government representatives.

The Mansion itself is reminiscent of the old Auroran empire style, speaking to its age, two storied and very well maintained. The Mansion itself is ringed by a small garden around which paths intertwine hiding small coves for more private conversations without leaving the environs of the party. The entrance is slightly elevated with a short but wide staircase of white marble leading up to a columned entrance.

At the party a finely curated bar was available for the free use of the patrons, though at the judicious and careful hand of the serving men and women so to prevent overenthusiastic guests from losing their handle on their liquor. There were also served many unique concoctions that induced certain feelings (mostly enthusiastic and pleasant ones) and none overwhelming or negative, though it was hinted by the men and women members of the SCC that should one have an interest in acquiring such vintages, customisation was an option.

The food served came from all corners of the world, showcasing local cuisines as well as the skill, art and experience of some of the denizens of the dead republic. However, the focal point of the attention of the majority of the guests was the entertainment. This was exclusively sourced from within the territories of the dead republic and showed wonders not seen off the island. The contracted artist/residents showed of skills and arts both magical and mundane honed during many lifetimes in many cases, not so much for profit but through love, passion and a means of keeping sane. This has made such performances and performers rare and unique.

Some danced, other sang while others performed feats of legederdemain close to magic. Most notable is a beautiful vampiress who was able through some form of magical implement to float above the entrance just under a small dome that let in the starlight and perform a mesmerising dance among seemingly a thousand silken scarves both concealing and revealing her body, but never truly either completely. Yet another sang at one end of the dome with a voice so beautiful many were moved to tears.

And through it all, mingled the members of the the collective, recognisable by a pin bearing the symbol of the collective, 4 intertwined rings.

[The JoJo]

September 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective Party, the Dead Republic

Getting past the guards had been too easy. Nobody had given the small scruffy serving boy carrying a tray of canapés larger than his head a second glance, nor had they noticed when he disappeared into a side room, only for a finely dressed silver corvan to remerge a moment later. Kismet took a seat at the edge of the room, taking a glass of wine from a flustered-looking waiter.

There were a few faces he recognised among the crowd. Romana Alascane. The Duke of Valthee. But he wasn't here to talk to them tonight. He was here to make new acquaintances.

[Anti-Eagle]

October 1900 (Turn 10, Fall)

It was the night of the third when her mother saw her playing with the fairies. She didn't see them. She thought she was dancing on her own. She had her hair pulled and was yelled at for this. She was too old for imaginary friends... and she couldn't speak of the fairies.

She wished other people could see them, that they would let her speak of them.


The Frozen South

Masih followed the drone through the tunnels, and watched in awe at the swarming creatures in the chamber. It had been... centuries he supposed since he had seen so many creatures, and it made him wonder of the state of the world. The reference to a central mind, the alert, and the sheer number of creatures. Were these recombinants as they remembered them? No one came for them, and as far as he knew they had been exterminated so... what did that mean?

"Hello," he says to the gathered Jerlin. "My name is Masih, my crew and I have been lost for some time and we were wondering if you could help us?"

"We're a bit lost and were wondering what has happened? We crashed and no one came for us..."


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - Mass Indoctrination (+4 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Bjofastafur (+4 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Stimulants (+4 to Unity Production)

Kismet

The Administratum of Awn (Five Actions Saved)

The Oculiuris (Five Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Five Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Five Actions Saved)

[The JoJo]

Kismet watched the partygoers for some time, pretending to savour the Mertonian wine he had been given. In fact, he was carefully studying each circle's dynamics -- who were real players, and who were the hangers-on. Eventually, he homed in on a striking woman with olive skin and bright, blue eyes. He placed down his long since emptied wine glass and began to wander in her direction, slipping into the space left by a departing Krakari ambassador.

"Mohana Karsus, I presume?"

[kemmotar]

September 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective

Mohana Karsus had been enjoying the party immensely, though of course, partaking only of the lighter drinks that were deliberately served to members with the intention of retaining their wits while those of their guests were ever so subtly impaired by drink, food and spectacle.

Honoured guest, be welcome to our headquarters. Indeed I am called Mohana Karsus a humble member of our small collective. We definitely hope you have found something to suit your tastes? Is there something that we may attempt to provide for you?

Mohana bowed ever so slightly indicating that she was here to serve, yet the flourish of the hand as if proffering the world to her guest the whole party and everything in it accentuated both the opulence of the Kaftan she was wearing, the cloth catching the light in such a way that the delicate gold tracery on the sleeves caught the light.

[The JoJo]

"Humble, as ever. Do you recall the time we met at a party like this? It must have been five years ago by now, at least?"

No such meeting had taken place, but Kismet was well accustomed with the fallibility of human memory. Few would be able to confidently say exactly where they were half a decade ago, let alone whether they had talked with a particular stranger at a party. So it was that he baited the hook.

[kemmotar]

September 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective

I must admit my memory fails me, though perhaps granting me the honour of your name and organisation would perhaps jog loose its gears.

Mohana picked up one of the concoctions offered up by one of the passing waiters with one hand and a small skewer of grilled meat that looked perhaps like a lizard. It was delicious of course but the act of eating and drinking would put her counterparty at ease and give her some time to try and remember who she was speaking with.

[Moon_Dusk]

The Frozen South
October 1900
Within moments the Central Chamber was filled with silence, the Jerlin that led Masih softly hissed at the sheer volume of the machine golem spoke but held back its anger. Within moments all of the gathered Jerlin angled their smooth heads to the front as it were, in which the Central Mind's scarred beak enters the light, as does the rest of its marred craggy hide. The assembled Jerlin bowed their heads and released a series of hisses and chitters that filled the once clear air. But was instantly silenced as the monolithic creature snapped its beak. The Central Mind lowered its head to the Machine Golem and sniffed at it for a second. "We have recently awoken ourselves Masih. We know little of the outside world beyond these halls. But a lack of information never stopped us from making the best of a situation, so how about we strike a deal, we provide materials to make that flying vessel operable again, and you help us." The beak on the Central Mind didn't move during the entire speech, the entire speech came from the Jerlin present. The towering giant lazily glances to the side exposing tumors and freezer burns. "We have a deal?"


Multiple Shorelines

Along the shore odd bodies are being washed up, their pale decrepit bodies show massive scarring and deep gashes.


The World Knows: After a series of Dead Jerlin washed along multiple shores people now know of some Rouge element of the Swarm are still around. (-2 espionage)
Hive Mind Sync: The Hive mind after going through multiple iterations has finally been set. (+2 Unity)
Bodies piling up: Along certain shorelines to the south east dead bodies are abundant and show signs of rapid growth and deep tissue scaring(-1 Espionage)
Harmonious Decree: Within the Hive of Ice most Jerlin are going through rapid adaptation to be allowed to fly. (+2 Military)
Hide in Plain Sight: After short rapid telepathic communications The Central Mind has made it paramount that the Hive needs to stay hidden. (+2 espionage while on home turf)

[The JoJo]

"Kisen Markos, of the Silver Ravens," Kismet said. The Silver Ravens were a genuine, if nearly defunct, group of traders from the far west. Kisen Markos was a name that he had plucked from thin air.

"Say," he added. "Have you ever heard of the legend of Aurapolis?"

[Anti-Eagle]

November 1900 (Turn 11, Fall)

Tare hadn't seen or heard from the fairies in weeks. She left her home deep in the night to look for them, walking into the forest where she knew their groves to be. It was a long walk, and she knew her father to be hunting in the pitch black but she did not care. They promised he would be dealt with and she had the knife she had hidden for months from her parents.


Masih looked at the giant and said, "Deal. Though in all honesty I wouldn't know where to begin, our magic hasn't worked in centuries. We can't form new runes, and the metal is rebellious."


Throughout the confederacy there existed rumours of sacred objects made of a golden substance, these rumours have persisted across the generations and millenia with some claiming them to predate the gods of the third age. What these objects are is debated, some calling them the eyes of Agerra, they grant great fortune to those who claim them. It is claimed by some of the more radical scholars that these objects are keys to something greater, though what this greater thing may be is unknown.


Whispers of another continent to the West spread across the lands, spoken of in the old times before the cataclysms, the rumours of this land were nearly forgotten due to the strife and focus on sheer survival by most over the centuries. Though these rumours have returned out of a sense of hope in brighter times.


Bodies washed ashore of strange creatures... that weren't aberrations.


The Vatnahlifir

Create a Concept - Aether Chaplains (+1 to Unity Production) - The Fedai and Phantoms of the Vatnahlifir are supported by the so-called Aether Chaplains, priests of the gods and the aether amongst their forces that tend to their spiritual and mental wellbeing.

Create a Concept - Eminent Authority (+1 to Wealth Production) - Across Ajivha, its Khaganate, and the Confederacy the Vatnahlifir are an eminent authority of matters of the supernatural and their knowledge is sought after by any with enough sway to strike a deal with them.

Create a Concept - Smuggling Networks (+1 to Wealth Production) - Across the Confederacy are a series of smuggling networks and black markets originally founded by Ajivhan Janissaries for the purpose of moving illegal, illicit, or otherwise unwanted materials across foreign land, in reality for the purpose of controlling crime and making it easier to move soldiers and equipment into foreign territory under the noses of local governments. These networks have grown and evolved and for the most part continue to report to Ajvhan spies.

Kismet

The Administratum of Awn (Five Actions Saved)

The Oculiuris (Five Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Five Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice
The World Knows: After a series of Dead Jerlin washed along multiple shores people now know of some Rouge element of the Swarm are still around. (-2 espionage, +3 Military)
Hive Mind Sync: The Hive mind after going through multiple iterations has finally been set. (+1 Unity)
Bodies piling up: Along certain shorelines to the south east dead bodies are abundant and show signs of rapid growth and deep tissue scaring(-1 Espionage, +2 Military)
Harmonious Decree: Within the Hive of Ice most Jerlin are going through rapid adaptation to be allowed to fly. (+2 Military)
Hide in Plain Sight: After short rapid telepathic communications The Central Mind has made it paramount that the Hive needs to stay hidden. (+2 espionage while on home turf)

[kemmotar]

September 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective

Well then Kisen Markos of the Silver Ravens, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.

Said Mohana with a deep bow, not betraying if the name meant anything to her either way.

I must admit I am not aware of this particular...city? Though I am always fascinated by history and would be pleased if you could illuminate me.

[Cosmic Traveler]

With great wealth, comes great responsibility to the World. If it were truly my intent to drain the World of all of its money, then none would be here standing, you'd all be in huts made of mud and thatch and not here, complaining about my methods.
~Lord Gambiyat the Second, in response to an Auroran Republic Dignitary when accused of siphoning the world's money into the Lord Gambiyat's own coffers

The Raptor States - Guild Bazaar of the Raptor State #5 - Gambiyat, the Coin Guild - year 1900
T'lien was nothing short of fuming, to see someone so incompetent on his trading floor. The Vizier was walking fast along the lanes towards his goal, two turned over carts with arguing Traders and a few Men-At-Arms trying to solve the dispute between the two parties involved, upon seeing the Vizier, the Men-At-Arms came to a sigh of relief and went to attention. The Vizier took note of the two men and his surroundings and came to an understanding of the area they were in. The Vizier then took the Men-At-Arm's note of the situation at hand: Both cart tried crossing the intersection at nearly the same time and both were distracted by a loud noise from a nearby blacksmith, the two carts collided and spilled forth their content upon the bricked road, the problem for the Traders was who was to blame for this and who was to pay for the loss.

The Vizier chuckled and made both traders notice their environment: This was a no-cart road. The area was made so small they had no right to be there in the first place, so this incident was on both of their heads. T'lien explained to both men why the Guild was in no way going to reimburse their carts' losses and was in fact going to send them fines for having carts in a no-cart zone on top of having a fine for disturbing the peace. The first offense was a rather salty one, but the second not so much, afterall, peace can easily be reacquired through commerce and trade and civil interactions.

T'lien was not so pleased as to see how full of products, both liquids and now spoiled solids was now littering the place, he was almost going to fine both of them again for littering in the public trade space, but he simply told one of the Man-At-Arms to fetch a few Innitiates to clean up this rather large mess and make sure nothing was left of it. T'lien then proceeded to tell both traders to pick up whatever goods was left intact and then left the scene.


1. New Concept: Rules and Regulations: +1 Unity
2. New Concept: Partnership Programs: +1 Unity
3. New Concept: Legal documentations: +1 Unity

[The JoJo]

"Ah, of course," Kismet said, putting on a sufficiently mysterious air. "Many years ago, at the height of the old Auroran Empire, another landmass was discovered to the far west of our own. Naturally, people were eager to explore, and none more so than the Aurorans, who believed it was their destiny to rule the entire world. So an expedition was formed to form a new colony in this brave new world -- Aurapolis, or the city of gold.

At that time of unimaginable wonders, among the most advanced were the so-called mindmachines. These were contraptions made only of enchanted alloys, yet they could think... well, not quite like a human, but impressively for a hunk of metal. It is said that Aurapolis was built around a particularly ingenius mindmachine, one that could run an entire city by itself.

The first shipment of colonists left in the summer to begin building the new city, and the next group were scheduled to join them in a year's time. But when the second shipload eventually did arrive, they found the fledging colony empty -- to the last man, woman and child. Tools were reputedly laid out as if in mid use, even meals left half-eaten. Not a single body was ever found."

[Anti-Eagle]

December 1900 (Turn 12, Winter)

"What the-," Tare's father looked down, rifle in hand, from his tree stand as he noticed his daughter in the middle of the forest. Confused, he yelled out "Hey!" and began to climb down. He knew this to be wrong but he was sure it was her.

She turned sharply as she noticed him and began walking towards him.

"What are you doing out here? How did you find me?"

"I was looking for you, daddy." She stated as he approached, lowering himself to her as he shouldered his rifle, hands outstretched trying to grasp her.

"What? How did you get out this far? Where's your mother?"

The blade slid down her sleeve, landing in her palm, she made one quick motion and caught him unprepared slicing into his neck.

He howled in pain and anger and confusion as he recoiled from the slash, and she tried to capitalize on the attack by going for his guts. She stabbed deep in and caught something as he in a rage struck her and knocked her back. He grasped for the butcher knife stuck in his guts as she lay on the ground watching the blood pour from his slashed neck and bloodied organs leaking out of his stomach.


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - Aether Chaplains (+2 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Eminent Authority (+2 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - Smuggling Networks (+2 to Wealth Production)

Kismet
Develop a Concept x3 - Profiteer

The Oculiuris (Five Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Five Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Three Actions Saved)

Mamma Lu's Map Shop (Three Actions Saved)

The Gambiyat
1. New Concept: Rules and Regulations: +1 Unity
2. New Concept: Partnership Programs: +1 Unity
3. New Concept: Legal documentations: +1 Unity

[Jory]

Hi there Junior Cartographers! Mama Lu here! We're kicking off our first ever monthly newsletter. That's right! This newsletter will allow YOU to stay up to date on the swashbuckling adventures of our brave explorers and learn when the Map Shop will next be putting into port in a city near you! The first year is absolutely free! That's right, free! Tell your parents to sign up next chance they get, so you don't have to be the last little explorer to find out about my new competition. That's right! I'm holding my annual Junior Cartographers Competition to find twelve very special little boys and girls to join me, free of charge, at Mama Lu's High Seas Academy! Application details on page 3.

This top notch education is the very same process that turned a young boy named Danny into the handsome and dashing leader of my explorers, Captain Dan, whose exploits you have seen dramatized in our festivals. Captain Dan has been building a brand new fleet of ships in preparation for his greatest adventure yet, the exploration of a new continent, as yet unclaimed and untamed by the gentle hand of civilization. He's sure to face hostile humanoids, deadly whirlpools and rough riptides, and other things that you and I had not even imagined were possible, all with the help of his loyal crew and his newly repaired ship Red Razor! Stay tuned for our next installment, when Captain Dan sets sail upon the waves! Info on how to send a letter to Captain Dan is on page 2.

More information coming soon, kiddos, so stay tuned!
And remember: Mama Lu Loves You.

1. New Concept: Mama Lu's Newsletter: +1 influence.
2-5. Develop Concept: Mama Lu's Cartographer's: +6 Exploration
6. Develop Concept: Mama Lu: +4 Unity

[kemmotar]

September 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective

An interesting tale my dear friend...and forgive me for saying so, but not entirely of interest to a trading company..Perhaps a few curiosities here and there...but I have yet to hear the lure I think...Especially for such a hostile story...

Said Mohana, as if expecting him to say more.

[The JoJo]

"But, of course," Kismet said, a glint in his eye. "Rumour has it that the mindmachine was never retrieved, but instead abandoned to its fate in the city. And while all other such devices were lost during the Fall, there's no reason to believe that it might not still ticking away in there. A unique artefact, worth a pretty penny I imagine." He produced a small, leather-bound book from one pocket. "These are a reliable translation of the private notes of the captain who led the original expedition. I would go myself, but my health is too fragile for such a long journey. Take them and bring back the mindmachine." He smiled to himself. "All that I ask is that I get a private audience with the machine when it is retrieved. Otherwise, it will be yours to do what you wish with."

[Cosmic Traveler]

With the resources at my disposition, being manpower, economic and political, I believe I have the necessary means to keep this continent together should the eventuality of sudden and impromptu rupture in the trust of the people for the various kinds of money we have. from Gold, to Credit, Fiat, General goods and Weapons and Tools, the Guild has it, and with the means to restore the world to proper balance should come great trust in our ability to maintain the powers established in these land. Of course, most of you can perhaps say that this is our means to control the world, but believe me, The Lord Gambiyat, that our "Raison D'etre", is simply to upkeep the balance of the world, both Fiscally and politically.
~Lord Gambiyat the Second, in a Speech to the World Congress on economic growth.

Union of Auroran Republics - Gambiyat dock #2, Pier 7 - Gambiyat, The Coin Guild - Year 1900
Gaston, as per his usual , was making the round-ups on the dock, counting incoming shipments and their contents, making sure there was nothing missing, or more suspiciously, something extra in the contents of the crates in front of him. Every crate had been marked as counted except for the last box. With a bit of help from a few Innitiates, opened the box. Nothing was out of the ordinary according to his shipment manifest: Just some boring, run of the mill pickaxes for the local salt mine. These picks had been made specially for the high humidity and air exposure the salt mine was known for. these precise conditions were optimal for the corrosion of simple iron tools. the local Reagent exploiting the mine, Viscount Horelius Archibalt, put in extra money for the picks the new shipment of tools to be alchemically treated against corrosion, simple alchemy really when it comes to procedure. Gaston sealed the box and put in his approval stamp on the box, signalling his approval for shipment to the mine. Gaston had heard that some few weeks ago, there had been some Sodium Elementals that had risen through the mine because of an exposed vein of Aether within the salt mine. This was dealt with by contracted Adventurers who, in their quest to free the mine of the elementals, found a live Aether Crystal powering the elementals. From what Gaston heard, The Adventurers managed to defeat the Greater Sodium Elemental defending the Crystal and managed to pluck it out of its recess, giving them a worthy trophy. Now that the threat to the mine had been dealt with, the mine had resumed its operation a few days after the end of the incident. Through all of this, the workers were left but with corroded tools and carts and rails. This is why the mine had now needed the guild's supplies. Gaston thought to himself:"It costs money to make money". With the final signature made on the shipping manifest, Gaston signalled his men to move the crates via the dock crane into the specialized heavy equipment delivery cart. Gaston sighed as he watched his workers moving around like an ant colony, it was simply orderly and this greatly pleased Gaston


Develop Concept: Legal Documentation
Develop Concept: Rules and Regulations
Develop Concept: Partnership Programs

[Anti-Eagle]

January 1901 (Turn 13, Winter)

Tare stood over the body for hours listening to the whole of nature watching her as she cleaned the blood off of her knife. Her knife. It was her knife now. Not even Lysei could take that moment from her.

She was sure even the fairies had seen it, though she didn't see them. She would find them. They told her she could do it. And she did it.


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - Aether Chaplains (+3 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Eminent Authority (+3 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - Smuggling Networks (+3 to Wealth Production)

Kismet
Develop a Concept x3 - Profiteer

The Oculiuris (Five Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Five Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Five Actions Saved)

Mamma Lu's Map Shop
1. New Concept: Mama Lu's Newsletter: +1 influence.
2-5. Develop Concept: Mama Lu's Cartographer's: +6 Exploration
6. Develop Concept: Mama Lu: +4 Unity

The Gambiyat
1. New Concept: Rules and Regulations: +2 Unity
2. New Concept: Partnership Programs: +2 Unity
3. New Concept: Legal documentations: +2 Unity

[kemmotar]

September 1900 - The Specialist Collector's Collective

Mohana took the book, at first doubtfully, and flipped through the pages, her eyes slowly becoming more interested and her movements more hurried. Then she angled her head, very slightly, so only a very careful observer might notice.

Well then...There is some who would like to meet you for a private audience. Please come with me.

[The JoJo]

Kismet followed Mohana, casually picking up a prawn snack as they passed a dining table.

[Anti-Eagle]

February 1901 (Turn 14, Winter)

Hunting a prophet is not an easy task. Even with the help of the gods. Squads of phantoms were picked and sent on the word of the Awnite prophet and Ashlif, and all they had to work on was a drawing. A drawing and a name they might not even be going under.

Armed with stiff grey panoply coats and krakar gas masks to mask their rank, avto rifles with three spare drum magazines of blessed ammo, and five kaupaloki per man. They probably had years to find them. Probably. Prophets took time to develop, or atleast that was their understanding of the yellow cycle.

The hunt was a constant task that needed to be carried out every cycle without fail or they would end up with another crisis on their hands, as they had less than a decade ago. It was a task that needed to be carried out without warning or attention and the public could never know. The idea that they were still on the knife's edge would set back progress decades.

And the Vatnahlifir were happy to do it. Every time. Until the end to every cycle came and they were finally ready to bring the time of gods and demons to its close.



Rumour spread of maps in the possession of esoteric groups that lead through the anomalous conditions on the edges of the known world. Hopeful rumours of a land beyond, untouched by the wars of the past and the cataclysms of the gods.

Vessels left port seeking this new world...


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - Aether Chaplains (+4 to Unity Production)
Develop a Concept - Eminent Authority (+4 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - Smuggling Networks (+4 to Wealth Production)

Kismet
Develop a Concept x3 - Profiteer

The Oculiuris (Five Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Five Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Five Actions Saved)

Mamma Lu's Map Shop (Three Actions Saved)

The Gambiyat (Three Actions Saved)

https://66.media.tumblr.com/27cde6482f0d6466eb15932afbec6343/tumblr_ppx4u4QprN1y45vf2o1_540.png

[kemmotar]

SCC - February 1901

The SCC lets it be known via a variety of Pamphlets and letters sent to trading houses and the houses of the mighty alike that they are considering financing or co-financing expeditions to the new territories.

Those interested may apply to their local SCC branch with a small introductory letter.

[Anti-Eagle]

March 1901 (Turn 15, Spring)

In the cold spring air a group of covenant officers arrived at the location of one of the aberrant bodies that had been found over the past couple of months. Though the priority was relatively low with the commonality of aberrant things washing ashore, the lack of rot, and them having moved it to one of their few cold storage facilities.

This one was odd though by the standards of aberrations and they had soon realized why by the time the second, third, and so on were reported and eventually examined by the Vatnahlifir. They were uniform. They didn't fade. And their flesh was their own.

This spooked the officers charged with examining and cataloguing the bodies. The smell and taste was familiar though to the older agents sent to examine them. They were supposed to have left centuries ago. Where did they come from?


The Vatnahlifir
Create a Concept - Covenant Officers (+1 to Wealth Production) - The Vatnahlifir works the majority of its influence beyond Khaganian borders through Project Covenant, a program developed to combat the yellow threat across the confederacy. Though not directly controlled by the Vatnahlifir, Covenant offices and officers owe their tactics, organization, and plans to Ajivha and the Vatnahlifir.

Create a Concept - Guided by the Stars (+1 to Wealth Production) - The learned Vatnahlifir often turn to the heavens and prayer for understanding and advice. They have extensive records of the sky and the movements of the celestial, most of which is sold openly to academics.

Create a Concept - The Guiding Hand (+1 to Wealth Production) - The cult at the core of the Vatnahlifir likes to see itself as a guiding hand in the vein of Sinan's work to unify the order behind Ajivha and the Khaganate. They put a lot of effort into this work through the cult of Sinan and endeavour to consolidate power into their membership.

Diplomacy - Send Vatnahlifir acting as Covenant agents to varied SCC offices to discuss funding a mission overseas.

Kismet
Create/Develop a Concept x3 - Benefactor

The Oculiuris (Five Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Five Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Five Actions Saved)

Mamma Lu's Map Shop (Five Actions Saved)

The Gambiyat (Five Actions Saved)

https://66.media.tumblr.com/27cde6482f0d6466eb15932afbec6343/tumblr_ppx4u4QprN1y45vf2o1_540.png

[Moon_Dusk]

The Frozen South
March 1901 Turn 15
The Central Mind chuckles at the worries of the Golem, "Worry not Golem, we Jerlin have our ways of getting past such challenges." With that an entire row of Jerlin on the left shook off chitin to expose membrane and tissue, with a wet guttural sound a Jerlin flapped its wings spreading goop and tissue about before it swiftly flew through the air, soon the entire row flew after it. The Central Mind turned back to Masih, "We'll get to work on your ship and any ships we find, this is going to take a long time but the flesh conversion should help with your issue, these few are going to fly to the main land, if you are desperate to head there you should speak up."

Within the Hivemind
A series of flashed images rocketed through a series of nodes and intertwining ropes. This same series of images rebounded back to their sender with a simple message, "Wake up." Their senders twitched, and then their hearts were pumping again with blood and air, soon the reanimated bodies would stir.

Improve Hivemind Structure
Flight:Certain Jerlin can spontaneously grow wings. (+1 Military)
Strengthening the Bond: The Central Mind's presence on the Hivemind is more acutely felt. (+1 Unity)

[Anti-Eagle]

April 1901 (Turn 16, Spring)

Maps were drawn and a pattern began to emerge. The first body had washed up in Ajivha along the southern shores, then a few along the coast of the Republic of Awn, Aurora, and then Basalt Territory. They hadn't seen any yet in Corpus land or atleast none had been reported to the project.

The things that hadn't been named beyond I-7 were following an odd path through the waves. Where they were coming from was still unknown, as was what they were doing or wanted down here. That made them as dangerous as the threat of a return, assuming that's not what was happening.

...

In the Northeast funding was acquired for a journey to the West through recently uncovered corridors in the anomaly. A Vatnahlifir would be placed amongst the Covenant officers to accompany the crew of the expedition and drop a communication pole every time a course correction was made so that the journey could be replicated later... and assure a path for the secondary expedition that would be made if objective delta was uncovered.


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - Covenant Officers (+2 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - Guided by the Stars (+2 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - The Guiding Hand (+2 to Wealth Production)


Kismet
Develop a Concept x3 - Benefactor


The Oculiuris (Five Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Five Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Five Actions Saved)
Improve Hivemind Structure
Flight:Certain Jerlin can spontaneously grow wings. (+1 Military)
Strengthening the Bond: The Central Mind's presence on the Hivemind is more acutely felt. (+1 Unity)

Mamma Lu's Map Shop (Five Actions Saved)

The Gambiyat (Five Actions Saved)

https://66.media.tumblr.com/27cde6482f0d6466eb15932afbec6343/tumblr_ppx4u4QprN1y45vf2o1_540.png

[The JoJo]

The Eastern Sea

With word of the rediscovery of the faraway continent spreading like wildfire through the Confederacy, traders and explorers scrambled to be the first to take advantage of its rumoured riches. Along the Auroran coast, many ships struck to the east and Kismet was among them, perched in the form of a raven on the sails of an Avriangaen schooner. He could always have flown himself, but then, he was in a lazy mood.

Exploration x 3 - Kismet explores the new continent to see what of interest can be found on its west coast.

[Anti-Eagle]

May 1901 (Turn 17, Spring)

The journey East was a long and treacherous journey through storms unknown to the ancients. But the path before them was known, now ancient maps through the eternal stormwalls layed a path before the ships.

When they finally passed through it was a shock to the sailors. Clear turquoise skies and clear turquoise waters teeming with fish. In the distance land was spotted through scopes as another pole was dropped into the water.

Vast archipelagoes of land. Unknown to the people.



Silver plated patrol boats with little in the way of marking set out from Karsha seeking the source of the I-7. They were to sweep North, meeting with emplaced resources, gathering any evidence they came across, and setting mines at key points before making their way again South around the mines, even though as they were designed they wouldn't set them off on their own.


The Vatnahlifir
Develop a Concept - Covenant Officers (+3 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - Guided by the Stars (+3 to Wealth Production)
Develop a Concept - The Guiding Hand (+3 to Wealth Production)


Kismet
Exploration x 3 - Kismet explores the new continent to see what of interest can be found on its west coast.


The Oculiuris (Five Actions Saved)

The Specialists Collectors Collective (Five Actions Saved)

The Sveit (Five Actions Saved)

Hive of Ice (Three Actions Saved)

Mamma Lu's Map Shop (Five Actions Saved)

The Gambiyat (Five Actions Saved)

https://66.media.tumblr.com/27cde6482f0d6466eb15932afbec6343/tumblr_ppx4u4QprN1y45vf2o1_540.png