Total War: Monstrum IC

[Eldan]

January 1st, 1921

The mood in Novska should have been ecstatic. SOme had feared that the War had not truly ended, and in truth, rebellions and nationalistic movements had kept flaring up all over Europe. But things were settling down, international relations were once again opening, and business was booming.

Why, then, was everyone so tense? The weather had to be part of it, biting cold winds, even snow, that made one feel as if the entire city had been transported hundred of miles further north. Few left their houses if they could avoid it and in the streets, the predators were hungry, impatient.

But there was more. The war had scared more than just the mortals. Even in the supernatural community, people had kept their heads down, afraid that the war might come to them, that in the chaos of battle, they might be exposed. And so they had built their power, for years. Too many of them were too much predator for a long peace, of course. Tensions had built, and built, barely held in check by a council few of them really believed in. And, like a spring coiled up too long and too hard, eventually something had to break.

The Election
To a mortal, the temple would look a damp, earthen cave. Though studded with ancient stonework that must once have been significant, even starkly beautiful, few would mistake it for the meeting place of princes, kings, even gods. But then, among such disparate creatures, what could even count as decor for all of them?
Those here today know better. To the attuned senses, every rock vibrates with the power of the city, the gathered inhabitants and the attention of the genius loci.
The Mirror Queen, represented by one of her headless, mirror-crowned maidens, has passed on speaking after the opening ceremony, passing the post of chairman to the Quaestor as usual.
Baaliation has bedecked himself in Imperial purple robes and a golden diadem, the perfect image of a king from antiquity.
He had spoken for a while now, wordy as usual. Many of those gathered - whether they be princes, their avatars, representatives or merely visitors - simply tuned out his introductory speech, until he came to the important part.
“And so, I would like to conclude that we have admirably weathered the recent war. Where empires have fallen and crumbled around the world, Novska endures. Prosperous, rich, a home and a haven for all of us.
This, of course, is because we have formed a stable, ordered society amongst ourselves. We have a council, we have laws, we can make our grievances heard without resort, as so many others of our kind do, to war and murder as our first and only means of conflict resolution.
As there are no other issues to bring before the council, we come to the issue of the election. It is my position that is up for debate and a vote, that of Quaestor. THe one holding this position has the right to gather whatever taxes he deems necessary from amongst any of our kind without the rank of Prince, and use them as he sees fit.
I will not bore you with a long election speech. I have held this position for 240 years, and there never have been complains. I trust you will, once again, elect me.
As always, the deliberations will be open for one month, and then, the votes will be counted. ”

And then, with a smile, he sat down on the throne that twelve of his servants had laboriously carried in.

The Rally CONFIDENTIAL
MARJA DERESKI TELLS ALL
American Fashion Trends Crossing The Ocean? Will Denim Jeans And SHORT Dresses Be The NEW CRAZE?
Read on For Marja Dereski’s EXCLUSIVE travel log of the United States of America. (pg. 17)
[Contained within is an ‘interview’ with Marja Dereski, the oldest daughter of Count Vegar. The ‘interview’ is more of an overheard conversation at a cafe between Marja and a friend where in she recounts her tour through the American Northeast and rail trip to Texas. Interest in the flapper movement in particular seems to be the focus of the conversation, and more than a few harsh words are written about Marja’s opinions on the matter. The article goes on to say that this conversation makes it clear the rumours about Marja are true, that she does indeed intend to make a bid for inheritance-of-first-born, rather than the traditional eldest-male of the Dereski Family.

When asked for clarification of her statements in the conversation, Marja declined to comment.]

The Omens
The Lazy Caravan has cast the bones, letting the lifeblood of a mother cat flow over the bones of a fresh dead infant, his crying mother dressed in wolfsbane and heather. Whatever they saw there has shaken the Caravan to the core, and the elders have sent a message to the Senate asking for help. A new prince is fitfully stirring, so they say, and its birth will herald the doom of Novska.

“In a place of needing company and surest care,
Lies a hidden secret, of a hidden lair,
Subdue our body and leave our mind despair,
Should its birth complete to devour its pair”


The Adriatic Times
The Novska Police have put out a call for information regarding Lukas Steiner, a known member of The Growlers. In response, The Growlers have stated that Police overstepped their authority and searched two of their garages without a warrant, but found nothing to justify their search. Steiner himself has been slipping into bars here and their claiming that Commissioner Franjo is trying to push his authority and force the mayor to give police sweeping powers.

[Nyrt]

The quiet hum of high voltage permeating the facility seems to fade into the background as the the inner circle of the Lovelace Foundation sits in respectful silence, listening intently to the tinny voices that ring from the apparatus before them.

"So far it's mostly as expected," Ivan remarks. "Remarkable, really."

"Eva was brave to attend in person," Petra comments, to a round of solemn nods.

"As always, the deliberations will be open for one month, and then, the votes will be counted."
The Quaesator's speech concludes, but the discussion within the Foundation was just beginning.

"About the election. Quaestor... Baaliation?" Mia stumbles over the unfamiliar words, "seems awfully confident he'll be re-elected."

"When the electorate is the same every year, one must imagine they'd reach a consensus sooner or later," Petra says dryly.

"I hardly think-" Ivan stops abruptly, eyes slipping off Petra to the machinery behind her, where a small, nondescript light had begun to blink.

***

Eva holds a hand to the earpiece and nods to herself. Taking a deep breath, she steels herself for the task ahead of her. She approaches the throne and awaits a quiet moment when the princes and their representatives are discussing among themselves.

"My lord, please forgive my ignorance, but in what manner do you prefer to be addressed? I am new in the role of representing my patron and would like to avoid offering offense to such an august personage as yourself."

"Hello," Eva says, a note of trepidation in her voice. She sets the portable radio she carries down on the table in front of her. "From what I hear, you are the other newest member of the senate. The Engine asked me to introduce it to you."
"'Hello, Velibor,'" says the crackling voice from the radio. "'It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. How have you found your introduction to politics so far? It must be quite the adjustment.'"


Honorable Scarticci,
We have recently found ourselves in possession of a large quantity of funds after recent speculation on the markets, and are uncomfortable with our own ability to secure it. We understand your establishment nearby offers such services, and we are interested in exploring what options you may have available.
Ivan Kovac,
Chief Treasurer
The Lovelace Foundation

Honorable members of the Illuminated Orient of Novska,
We have made some recent discoveries which we find are in need of peer review. Unfortunately, we find ourselves sorely lacking in peers well-versed enough in the arcane to validate our experimental results. We are working on drafting a paper documenting our findings. Would you or your patron be interested in reviewing our results before we distribute our results to others in the field?

We have recently found ourselves in possession of a large quantity of funds after recent speculation on the markets, and are uncomfortable with our own ability to secure it. We understand your establishment nearby offers such services, and we are interested in exploring what options you may have available.
Having analyzed your own investments, we find your strategies to be nearly optimal. However, your patron's talents and our automated investment engines each offer the other an opportunity to expand our mutual portfolio.
Ivan Kovac,
Chief Treasurer
The Lovelace Foundation

[Hamste]

The Election

Sitting at a table with some paperwork in front of them is a large piece of rotting meat. It isn't entirely clear how it is reading the paperwork but the papers are moving and shuffling as if something is reading them. A few blurps came from the piece of meat and the meaning becomes clear a second later from an androgynous voice.

Inspirational as always, Baaliation.

As for deliberations, I was wondering if we could get a record of what last term's tax money was spent on and whether the amount gained in taxes has increased or decreased as the war has come to an end.


Hello, I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am preparing to campaign for mayor during the next elections and I was hoping for your support in my bid. My platform is a very pro industry including industry subsidies to help bounce back after years of focusing on the war effort as well as an increase in the police force budget and other regulatory bodies which will make it harder for larger industries to get around the labor laws and decrease petty crime.

-Gourmet Radson




Hello,
I am the owner of Radson's Eateries and a big fan of the Lions. I was wondering there is anyway I can help the Lions out. Specifically, we were hoping to sponsor the team as well as provide catering.

-Gourmet Radson



Hello,
We were wondering if we could set up a concession stand in your circus. We specialize in meat based products but we can vary up the preparations and styles of the meals to better fit with your themes. We would of course pay rent and believe adding our flavors to your offerings would increase both the amount of time a park visitor will stay and the chances they will return.



A form is sent to the administration just going through the proper procedures for an expansion of the eatery into Zaderev, ostensibly to feed the week day lunch crowds.


Hello, we were wondering if you would be interested in an alliance of sorts.

[St.Just]

The Election

The Archivist’s had but rarely attended these meetings in person, which as a general matter left the position of representative as a fiercely fought over prize, generally won through wagers on future events or contributions of interesting metaphysical trivia to the common understanding.

On this occasion the prize had been won by one Professor Albrecht Becker, an impressively venerable doctor of history and Viennese emigre generally agreed to still have the Academic Legion uniform that occasioned said emigration on proud display in his office. Throughout the Quaestor’s interminable speech, his impressively lifelike glass eye never once ceased peering at one attendee or another, all but filling a notebook with observations recorded in esoteric shorthand.

After Balliation had finished his peace, the elderly academic cleared his throat and, at length, managed to rise from his seat to address the assembled Princes in a steady, if raspy, voice.

“It is, I’m sure, purely a formality. But our fair city’s Archivist has made clear to me that she wishes it stated publicly and without nuance that she has no interest in the Quaestorship, and sees no issue with the present arrangement, from the present vantage.”

That down, he fell into a coughing fit severe enough to seem concerning before sitting down and returning to his notes and observing the meeting.



Becker’s leathery old face split into a wide grin as he read the note, pressing it between the pages of his own book before answering “Patron’ is a grand way of putting it, but she has certainly seemed interested in what you gentlemen-and ladies, of course-have accomplished over there. Even if your building is an absolute blight on the city....”

Taking a long drink of water, possibly just to force himself back on topic, he continued “But yes, it matters what specific field your discussing, but I’m sure I or some of my colleagues or the Archivist would be more then happy in reviewing whatever you’ve discovered and seeing if we can provide some context or criticism.”



Nathaniel Lukas was a well-heeled young man, if one who service in the war and a deep facial scar across his right eye had dragged from ‘handsome’ to ‘striking’. All in all, he fit in rather well among the usual guests of the Light club, not matter how unlikely one was to mistake him for anything but a foreign ambassador.

Delivering his credentials with a crisp salute, he briskly asked to speak with whomever might be serving as seneschal, on the subject of the two organization’s mutual weal’s and growths, and the avoidance of conflict (yes, in those exact words).




A spy with an animal’s head truly shouldn’t be as good at blending in as he was-but then, that was a fairly generally applicable observation for the city’s denizens. Still, Ohmsgate was only so big, and a certain point he took a likely turn and found a strange woman waiting for him, seemingly distracted as her eyes traced probability arcs through the square. Falling into step beside him as she introduced herself with

”Are you human enough to require all the flattery and fencing before we get to anyone useful or interesting? Preferably not, but you do at least seem to be genuinely impress on occasion.”

Falling silently for a span as she looked him up and down with cool eyes, she continued “Now, what sort of understandings does an agent like you require before he undertakes some espionage?”



Alison Tester was some degree the strangest of the Lamplighters-American, of one. Obviously a sailor rather then an academic, by both appearances and temperment, for another. But she was consumed with the same burning curiosity as the rest of them when some of the Archivist’s planned coincidences had her deliver a vitally needed package to the Orient in the midst of a crisis. And so now her tiny boat worked for the Archivist, and her right eye had been swollen shut with an ugly bruise for the last several years.

So on a certain brisk January day, that boat delivered a few tourists safely to Yigusa Island, before proceeding to a certain point as close to Diver’s Abyss as anyone sane will go, and waiting for a certain signal of accepted parlay (or a signal to run very fast and pray, possibly).




It was a fine winter’s morning, just before dawn, when a colourful figure slipped into a certain Socelli park, ears tuned for radio waves as she whistled a tune designed to send any primate which overheard stumbling back to bed.

When she reached the exact centre of the area where radios had been overridden, she paused to take a sip form her canteen of honeyed tea, before beginning to speak into the cool morning air.

”Fascinating class, Hymenopetra. Though usually it’s the ants aping civilization in miniature. So I suppose congratulations are in order for passing by agriculture and warfare for a higher calling.”

Taking another long drink, she wiped her mouth before continuing

”Now, assuming you’re not entirely pretense, I believe there’s a chance we’ll get very well. Just look at our titles-cooperating in our work would just make everything much neater, don’t you agree?

With that, she just stood and nursed her tea for a while.




Ms. Elsa Keay was a rather dangerously prim-looking and sharp young woman, the only slightly unconventional looking thing about her being the left lens of her eyeglasses refracted light ever-so-slightly differently than it really should. Among many other things, she was both an assistant librarian at the university and, officially speaking, the Illuminated Orient’s secretary and stenographer.

So it really was the least suspicious thing in the world for her to personally deliver a note to the Historical Society’s clubhouse.

Salutations and Best Regards,

At out last general meeting, it was determined that it would be a most worthy endeavour to sponsor and collect a complete and magisterial history of this fair city. Likewise, to organize events or lesser works to raise awareness of our proud heritage, and how our illustrious past leads to the bright future we can look forward to in this new peaceful world.

Naturally, your fine fellowship came to mind instantly as the natural partner for such worthy tasks. As such, it has been left to me to inquire how interested your membership would be in such collaboration?

Fondest Regards,
Ms. Elsa Keay, on behalf of the Illuminated Orient of Novska

[Eldan]

The Election

Baaliaton frowns ever so slightly, but then smiles, regal and quite condescending.
"Taxes are stable. I pride myself on this organisation. And they are used for the protection of the city, 100% of them. If you must know exact amounts, I can have a clerk make copies of the ledgers."

Lovelace Foundation

Baaliation
Baaliation smiled down from his high seat, seemingly amused by the mortal’s address. He strokes his beard with one hand, before answering.
“Simply ‘your highness’ will do young woman. I will take no offense, and your manner of approach pleases me. How goes your experiments into the arcane workings of your thinking engine?”


The Scarticci Family
Dear Mr. Kovac

That entirely depends on the form these funds take. Assuming we are talking about standard currency, we of course have a broad selection of investment options that we can discuss with you, depending on how much risk you wish in your portfolio and how long-term you wish to make the investments.

Yours sincerely,
Gabriele Scarticci

The Old Flesh
The Novska Old Business Association

Fascinating, Mr. Radson!

We had of course heard the rumours, I think everyone interested in politics has, by now. And we must admit that your credentials are excellent in that regard, as a business man and a community member.
Our current major is of course very pro industry, but he has somewhat neglected the many benefits that local, family owned small business have over larger mass-producing industries. Other than enforcing labour laws, what course were you thinking of taking to

Sincerely yours,
Franjo Babic, Chairman

The Lions

Mr. Radson

You mean a "official food of the Lions", that kind of deal? I am sure something can be arranged there, as wee are in fact looking for more corporate sponsors. And of course we are glad it is someone like you. I can send someone to your location with some paperwork, if you wish to finalize a deal.

Regards
Jovan Petrovic, Manager


The Night Circus
Meat. We like meat. Red, white, pink, grey, green. Juicy. As long as there is variety. Yes, where were we? Oh, yes, last tuesday.

Can not take such a deal. Can not have the effect of the flesh affect the patron's affect. Sweet, sweet unsettlement and paranoia.

Gives us an idea, though. We will need. Innards, organs? Kidneys, preferably. Trucks, perhaps. Six or three? No, three is a prime number, that won't do.

[Hamste]

The elections
Organization is always so useful. I would like a copy please, I don't need it but if they are available might as well get one. Is there any plans to change to what the money will be spent on now that the war is over?

Also just so I am clear, I am not running. I just like to know these things.

The flesh blubs slightly.


Mr. Petrovic,

Perfect, they can catch me any time the eatery is open or by appointment.

Looking forward to working with you, Gourmet Radson



Ah, I can see how that is anti synergistic. We do plan to set up an eatery in that district but now that we know how that might cause problems, we will make sure not to set up too close and not to feed too many people, keeping it more as a back up rather than a full arm.

So for the meat, you need a variety of species' organs particularly kidneys and they must not be sent in a way that could be thought of as them being prime. We will attempt to have a total number of kidneys that is not a prime number as well. Is there any types of meat that absolutely must not be included? If you want to cause distress and they are for eating, human kidneys and kidneys from animals with religious significance or from animals considered pets seems preferable.



Mr. Babic
I am very interested in anti-monopoly laws, particularly making sale of goods below the cost to produce them illegal. It is a common tactic used to drive away small businesses. Also of interest is the expansion of our markets. Most of Europe at this point is very economically damaged, so the sale of goods should increase massively if we expand appropriately helping both small businesses and the larger factories.

I have also been paying close attention to New Zealand and it's minimum wage regulations. With some of the United States recently having its own minimum wage laws added, I am hoping to see some evidence either backing or debunking the idea. I can't guarantee it will be pushed through though, being so revolutionary it would be a hot topic and it would be very much up to how the common man reacts to the idea. There is some concern about possible loss of the jobs which might result in massive push back but it is very advantageous for the common worker and small businesses.

-Gourmet Radson




Quaestor Baaliaton,
Hello, as you might have heard I am running for mayoral office soon. As the Quaestor and someone well connected with leadership even if this is leadership is less noble than the ones you associate with, I figure it would be good to start talks with you. Particularly what is expected from the mayoral in regards to to the supernatural.

[Murska]

Ophois, the Guide

"What a speech. And our gathering here, it does seem like even a city with the status of Novska is quite packed with talent and ambition. Must be the war that has brought us all so close to each other."

A tall, dark-haired man eyes the room from near the wall. There's some sense in which he is dishevelled and unkempt, though one cannot pinpoint any specific part of his dress or posture that would be out of order. His voice is quiet but quite distinct, audible through the mutterings in the crowd.

"We are indeed fortunate to have such a safe haven. With honesty, reason and trust in each other and the common institutions that have brought us this far, we will continue to prosper."

There is not a hint of mockery in his tone.

The Bokun Family

Greetings,

I am Alfred Wiszne, community leader of the Lost.

As you know, our organization is based near where our people live, at the Industrial Workers' Houses. The terrorist activity by these Undivided folks nearby has been an annoyance to us, and I'm sure, you as well - they're the sort of thing that brings attention and causes difficulty. And in addition the new gangs that have popped up recently are both aggressive and dumb.

I would suggest that a pact would be possible between our two groups. You have funds, connections and most importantly a well-respected name, we have weaponry and loyal soldiers not to mention our own kind of respect among the downtrodden. Together we could clean up the worst of the excesses in our part of the city and translate that into more reach, both in politics and on the street level for business.

Do consider our offer,
The Lost

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

"Quite beyond all expectations. According to our metrics the Engine has surpassed the computing abilities of the entire foundation staff. It is grateful-" she pauses for a moment. "We are grateful to have been permitted a representative among your ranks and hope we might be of service. We are very lucky to live in a place with such civilized structure among the immortal community."

"If I may ask, your highness, in what manner could we best be able to support your role as Quaestor after your re-election? Our computing facilities can process many trillions of operations per second. We would be happy to avail you of what resources we have available to demonstrate our utility."

[neriractor]

The Election

The bestial form of Kasdeveris' vessel nods attentively, actually paying attention to everything that was being said (or at least seeming to).

When Baaliaton is challenged for his numbers it allows itself a sharp-toothed before raising his hand "I'll take a copy as well if you don't mind, organization is always useful"

NPCs

Dearest [Insert presumably known leader name here].

We in The People's Voice Comitee wish to commend you once again for the service you provide to this city's refugee population and our own headquarters, if we can be of any help to your cause let us know.

- Bojan Popović, PVC board member.

With a prim suit and berett, Michael Milos approached in stark contrast with the rags of the adressed ghoul.

"Found anything good lately?"

Comissioner Franjo,

We in the People's Voice Comitee commend your efforts to protect the city from anarchy, and wish to assist you where we can in the search for Lukas Steiner, should his crimes be severe enough.

A low ranking party member goes pub-diving in known growler-friendly establishments, hoping to hear a bit about Lucas Steiner and why the police is so keen on grabbing him. He does not bother to ask any direct question, quite wary of getting a black eye.

PCs

A chipper young man on a working suit and berett walks across the reception and towards the Desk, he may be recognized as the PVC's leader.

With an apologetic smile he adresses the secretary, pulling the suit's neck a bit "the name is Michael Milos miss*, I was wondering if it'd be possible to meet the head board, I don't actually have an appointment..."

*sir?

-Fellow Prince.

Seeing as we share a concern for the city's well being, and the seeming stagnation its political system has fallen into, would you care to support me in a possible candidature, only if Baaliation's
numbers should not please us, of course...

- Kasdeveris.

A discreet PVC delegation lead by Kasdeveris(' host) is sent out to meet with the lost and discuss political stance and a possible cooperation. They go unarmed, for a mortal understanding of the word.

[kaio999]

Tick, Tick, Tick.

The clockwork king who stood as the representation for the dollmaker had everything being said between the participants electrically recorded and transmitted directly to their "savior", with the cutting edge technologies of the era. Where once the king before them was human now the back of his head was open and was kept packed together with a glass chrome skull so the gears and mechanized parts which made him run could be easily accessed and fixed within his skull with ease. From where his mouth use to be beeps and various parts of the conversations exchanged between everyone echoed in his belly as the monstrous mechanisms entangled in the place of his soul. A phonograph appeared to be sticking out of his chest to catch conversation that might be missed if only human ears were taking in information.

The Dollmaker himself did not attend such an event but the being before them was a mechanical avatar allowing him to be in two places at once. Contained within this poor individual were thousands of recordings of the dollmakers voice as well as a decision engine which had been designed to institute the dollmakers policies with as careful precision as possible without him being there himself in all his glory.

"The status quo is acceptable at this time." His lips did not sync up right with the voice coming out and so the gears stuttered a moment and then he repeated the phrase this time it worked as intended correcting the inacurracy.

The Bone Mill
A telegram is sent, avoiding the untrustworthy use "people" to move information. Only the machine can be trusted to obey their masters.


We want you to know we support you 100% as always.
You continue to grow with the times and while you never lose the past you embrace the future.
We look to see your growth and success and hope we can do all in our power to ensure your rise.
Should you need anything do not hesitate to contact us.
We are looking to improve things further and provide safer communique in the future.

Damjanac Heavy Industries
A telegram is sent despite their two businesses being walking distance from one another.


Rumors of your mistreatment of workers has not gone unnoticed.
We find you are incredibly inefficient, three men harmed in your facilities have been brought into my care in the last month.
Our business models would increase productivity by 200%.
Do not dismiss the worker.
Remember what happened in Russia.
We offer full partnership.
The anger of the worker might boil over if you continue on your current path.

The Lovelace Foundation & the Thinking Engine
A telegram is sent.


We are fascinated by your technological acumen
You and I stand within the same paradigm.
The age of ancient gods snacking on humans achieving nothing but filled bellies must end.
We would like to offer a full alliance.
To quicken the technological revolution.
Let us look to end the era of superstition and bring about scientific evolution.

Prince Alphonse Avarica
A telegram is sent


Behind every great scientist is a greater banker.
We would like to offer a full alliance, we need our projects financed and you need a customer that is looking to grow.
Technology is the future.
Old gods believe themselves above paying off their cheque books.
They believe in donations to temples.
They don't suffer money men.
I need money men.
I hope something can be arranged.

[3SecondCultist]

The Cloaked Leviathan

The Election

Despite the crowd gathered at the meeting of Novska's Princes - to hear an ostentatious windbag speak and sycophants sing his praises - there exists a knot of tension throughout one particular corner of the hall. The petitioners of those immortal beings, themselves in varying degrees of mortality, know better than to disturb the emissary of one particular being that has only recently made this city its home. The Drowned, as they are called within the supernatural polity of Novska, attract looks of fear and discomfort wherever they pass. Today is no exception, as a single figure wrapped in a robe of patchwork sailcloths sits at the edge of one of the temple's benches. The entity that was once Jack Scrimshaw - famed navigator of New South Wales - leans forward with a slight hunch, its grey and mottled skin dripping beads of seawater upon the stone. As usual it is silent, but bloodshot eyes follow the proceedings carefully.

However, today Scrimshaw has brought something new. An object of a roughly spherical shape, perhaps slightly smaller than a man's head, sits in the Drowned ambassador's lap. Anyone sitting near it can see the object for what it is: a glass bowl filled with murky water. The shape moving within is mysterious at first, but it soon becomes obvious that Scrimshaw is holding onto a house goldfish. Scrawled in a sloppy script on a piece of parchment affixed to the bottom of the board are three little words.

The Cloaked Leviathan.


PCs

Despite the sun's presence, the waters surrounding the Abyss are fathomless. Whatever lives down there must do so without the presence of any light. Tester's craft seems small in comparison to the black, sharp shoals that protrude from the cliffs of Yigusa Island like so many teeth. It seems obvious, in hindsight, why the followers of the Elder Serpent would choose such a place to reside. With each wave that breaks upon the rocks comes the froth, and the promise of shipwreck. For a moment, Tester sees so many vessels - all much larger and better appointed - shatter ignominiously upon the same surface, a singular destiny scattered across millennia.

"You wish to speak to our master," rasps a voice from the stern of Tester's boat. Turning around, she notices that there is a figure standing on the craft: a six and a half-foot tall figure that could only generously be called 'female'. White, stringy hair only covers clumps of a bald scalp. Muscles atrophied cling to a big-boned frame, under dark grey leather armor in an antique style native to those who took the way over the wind cold ice to Vinland. Any historian would recognize the profile Brenna Alvasdöttir, fourth and most terrible of the Drowned. "Make voice your wishes, and I will convey them below."
Whatever creature has come out of the river was shot down by cannon by the overzealous City Militia before they realized it was carrying a white sail by means of truce. Wrapped up in a purple funeral shroud, the entity strode up to the fort before presenting itself to those who would speak for the sun.

"My master has instructed me to pass on a message," whispers the mottled, bloated corpse through blue-grey lips.

NPCs

Sometimes, when a being sings to the sea... it sings back. Today is such a day.

Thousands of fish suddenly rise to the surface of the Adriatic not too far from the shores of Cres. They are, to a one, dead, even as a gentle tide washes them right into the nets of the fishermen who live in that place. For January the tide is remarkably calm, and to the mortals of the sleepy seaside town, the gift is an unexpected bounty. But to those who would offer such bargains of their own, the omen is as clear a sign as any. The wind whispers to the witches of Cres, moving with an eldritch will and a power so deep and quiet as to be the embodiment of the ocean itself.

It is an invitation, to the place where no creature goes. To the Pit, to speak with the Serpent itself.
"Good evening," says the visitor at the door to the shack overlooking the ocean after knocking politely. The torn remnants of a blue navyman's uniform - preserved for several decades - are visible beneath the soaked mantle, though the golden epaulets and trim have long since faded into nothing. The face that greets the old man is perhaps less decomposed than one might have expected. An aquiline nose and weak jowls war for dominance over this messenger's face, although its flat eyes and barnacle growths leave no doubt as to the creature's provenance.

"My name is Francis Crozier, formerly captain of the Royal Navy. I speak for my master, the Leviathan. May I come in?"

[St.Just]

The Election

Professor Becker rose again, hurriedly adding "It should go without saying, but the Archivist will obviously require such records as well. In fact, are similar notes available for previous years? And how far back have are they available? Changes in the tax burden and distribution of patronage are always vital sources in understanding government.

PCs



The Lamplighters were selected for a very particular kind of personality-generally one with a short lifespan, which perhaps explains why Tester’s reaction to Brenna was not of fear but of something between fascination and awe, tilting her head to properly view her with her bruised, swollen-shut left eye.

After a moment, she recalled herself, stepping back and replying “[i]For such paranoid creatures, our patrons put a lot of trust in us proxies, don’t you think? Three steps from one Prince to another, so many chances for misinformation and misinterpretation.” Giving Brenna another long look, she shrugged and continued “But then, not exactly a worry with you, is it?”

“But I’m getting ahead of myself-you wanted to know what the Archivist wants? Well, most of all she wants to know what your patron wants-a biblical beast floating in the shadows of our cozy little town doesn’t exactly bode well, does it?

But in terms of more practical things, well, you’re master’s not the only really terrifying beast hanging around the outskirts, is he? And speaking from experience, our work survives flood rather better then fire. We’d like to avoid both, of course. But if there’s no chance of that, well, we’d like to work out a contingency or three, is all.”




An immaculately penned and composed letter is delivered to a certain clockshop by courier, left with the morning mail.

[i]Salutations and Best Regards

I write on behalf of the Illuminated Orient of Novska, the ‘Lamplighters’, in the vernacular, and through them our benefactor, the city’s most enlightened Archivist.

We have watched the spread of your works with no small degree of curiosity and awe, as they seem truly miraculous products of reason. Moreover, these marvellously subtle designs seem liable to grow much more common in the coming age.

It is the great work of our society to gather and publish a general history of our fair city, and if it is to remain in any degree current your designs will surely have a place in it, yet at present we have nothing but hearsay on the subject. Is there any literature you or your followers have authored you might be able to provide copies of, for the sake of posterity-pamphlets, propaganda, maintenance manuals, or similar?

Failing that, or in addition to it if providence smiles upon us, would it be at all possible for a member of our society to witness some number of your operations, possibly while taking notes or sketches?

Fondest Regards,
Ms. Elsa Keay, on behalf of the Illuminated Orient of Novska




Nathaniel Lukas is a striking, dashing sort of man-the kind who would have been devilishly handsome before the war left him with a sabre scar running down the right side of the face, eye included. Which meant he did rather stand out among the breakfast crowd of the Eatery. Waiting politely to speak with the host or maitre'd, he simply stated that he had a request of ‘some small scientific and public interest, to the city and posterity, that should be no great trial to fulfill. And, once concluded, perhaps the chance of some discussion of more commercial matters, as well.’


NPCS


Professor Becker is truthfully not that strange a sight visiting the caravan-as a Prfessor of (among other things) esoteric folklore, he would be remiss if he did not write prolifically on the local example. Still, he’s usually polite, and always pays well for others time.

On this chill evening he arrived seeking out a fortune teller, asking “For whomever cast the recent omens they found so disturbing the Senate was notified.”



Currently awaiting responses from: [PC] Etest Kha, Lovelace Foundation, [NPC] Waxen Archives, Midnight Sun, Novska Historical Society
Currently composing responses to: [n/a]

[Forum Explorer]

Solis Aeterni

Election
If Baaliation the image of a king of antiquity, Solis Aeterni was the picture of modern power and strength. He was clad in a tuxedo, which fit tightly across his overly muscled chest. His head was an incandescent ball of light, with a pair of dark sunglasses perched on his face.

HOW DISAPPOINTING! Solis boomed as he stepped forward. BAALIATION HAS KEPT THINGS STABLE, THAT MUCH IS TRUE. BUT IS THAT THE HEIGHT OF YOUR AMBITION? TO SIMPLY STAY SAFE AND FAT? WHERE IS YOUR DRIVE FOR MORE? MORE POWER, MORE WEALTH? YOU COUNT PENNIES WHEN YOU SHOULD BE STRIVING FOR EVER GREATER FORTUNES! THE MORTAL WORLD IS IN FLUX, AND THAT SPEAKS OF OPPORTUNITY! WE SHOULD TAKE FULL CONTROL OF THIS ISLAND, AND USE THAT CONTROL TO BRING EVEN GREATER WEALTH! LET NOVSKA GROW POWERFUL AND PROUD AND LET THEM USE THAT POWER TO BETTER SERVE US!

The corpse is met by a retired cavalryman. Though his hair has long gone white and his skin is full of wrinkles, he is still as fit as a man in the prime of his life, his eyes have flecks of light dancing in them, and his mustache is simply magnificent.

Ho there drowned one! You bring a message you say? Well spit it out then! No sense keeping us in suspense, let us hear what the Greatest Beast has to say!

YOU EVIDENTLY HAVE A PLAN FOR THE MORTALS OF THIS LAND! THAT IS GOOD! I ALSO HAVE A PLAN, AND YOUR SUPPORT WOULD BE INSTRUMENTAL IN ITS SUCCESS! IF YOU PROMISE ME YOUR SUPPORT, THEN I SHALL PROMISE THAT NONE SHALL MOLEST YOU OR YOUR CULT WITHOUT FACING THE WRATH OF THE SUN!

ALSO I FIND THE NAME OF YOUR MORTAL CULT TO QUITE APPROPRIATE AND FITTING TRIBUTE.

A beam of light strikes the ground outside the shade's lair, burning a message in the ground.

THE BRIGHTEST LIGHT CASTS THE DARKEST SHADOW. HELP ME SHINE EVER BRIGHTER AND YOU SHALL PROSPER BEYOND YOUR WILDEST DREAMS.

I WOULD DEMAND AN ANSWER FROM YOU.

YOU GIVE WHAT SHOULD BE EARNED. WHY?

YOU HAVE NOT BEEN IDLE AND HAVE CONTINUOUSLY SOUGHT IMPROVEMENT, FOR THAT YOU HAVE MY PRAISES! NOW I WOULD SEEK YOUR ASSISTANCE IN IMPROVING THE REST OF NOVSKA AS WELL! OF COURSE YOU CAN EXPECT THAT SUCH ASSISTANCE WILL RESULT IN EVEN GREATER WEALTH AND POWER FOR YOURSELF.

An elaborate letter is sent to each member, it's sides gilded with gold, and shining brightly whenever the faintest bit of light lands on it. The letter reads:

We have heard rumors of your amazing feats and fabulous adventures. We of the Pugiles Solis pride ourselves on facing any challenge and doing the impossible. So hearing that you beat us to the punch on such an adventure, well, many of our member are filled with both admiration and envy in equal amounts.

So we invite you to our club, The Blazing Sun, to speak of your adventures, and to hear our own. There will be food and drink aplenty, and we hope to hear of your attendance.

Pugiles Solis

A much plainer, though still fancy letter is sent to their headquarters. The letter reads:

Welcome Hunters,

We of Pugiles Solis appreciate the will and strength that drives you to hunt those that would prey on our fellow man. While our own ambitions are often much less noble, we still often find ourselves sharing much the same desire. So we invite you to come to our club, The Blazing Sun, to share in our food, hear our stories, and to speak freely when you wish.

Pugiles Solis

[Eldan]

The Archivist
Midnight Sun
The spy gives a kind of wide-beaked squawk that might be laughter or a scared gasp, it is difficult to tell. For a moment, the shadowy haze around him lifts, revealing a piercing dark eye in a and white head.
"The opposite. I appreciate directness. The understanding is simple. What, when, where, how. As much information as you have.
For payment, I take most mortal currencies. I can use those to purchase my needs. Unless you have any good contracts with construction or shipping companies. I also accept payments in credit with those. As long as they are discreet and neither they or you as any questions.
So, what is it you need?"

The Waxen Archive
An enormous buzz swells up, as a hundred scouts swarm up, each scanning the newcomer in sideways zig-zag flight, like a swivelling camera.
Seemingly satisfied, the scouts retreat and drones fly out next, focused in a dense, dark formation, the size of a human head. Sharp directed bursts of radio waves come forth, conveying several streams of information simultaneously at high density, like a chorus of questions asked at once in a crowded room.

++Threat assessment: Prince class, alarm level raised +3.599repeating, no current hostilities++

++Slight indignation: ants? Really? Pleeaaaaase++

++Class Twelve Information Density, Reciprocal Exchange Y/N?++

++Agriculture unnecessary for sufficiently advanced culture, preferred method hunter-gathering on agricultural institutions provided by sufficiently guided larger species (re:human)++

++Cooperation preferable, circumstances to be established -> subcommittees?++

++Initiate diplomatic protocols: Many thanks for your congratulations honoured archivist. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. ++


The Novska Historical Society
Dear Ms. Keay

It is always good to hear of enthusiastic amateurs eager to learn more about the fascinating history of our fair city. Please do not hesitate to ask as for any and all information you would like and we will be glad to help you.

Wilhelm Holub, Esq.
Society Chancellor

[Eldan]

The Old Flesh
The Lions
Petrovic is a somewhat greasy-looking man in his forties, almost completely bold and a good deal overweight, but with an infectious smile and a firm handshake.
He strides into the eatery the very next day with a small briefcase under one arm and asks to see management.


The Night Circus
Unconcerned Shrug. Yes, I just wrote that, deal with it.

Who knows a human kidney from a sheep kidney? Not most humans, that's who! Make it about the right size, and we can use it. No need to make this complicated.


The Novska Small Business Association

Oh, excellent, Mr. Radson, excellent indeed. You really are establishing yourself as a firm antipode to the mayor. Some of us are of course a bit sceptical on minimum wage, but you had our full support when price regulations and monopolies were mentioned. Goods, of course, must always be worth what they are worth.

Please consider this a full endorsement.


Baaliaton
Oh, we never had a lot of expectations for the mayor. As far as we are concerned, it is a convenient office to have. Someone, after all, needs to deal with mortal needs and it might as well be one of them. And, of course, mortals have this tendency to sooner or later find out bits and pieces about our side, so having someone who knows just enough to be scared and in turn keeps the rest of them quiet is very convenient.

If of course, someone more... engaged with royal affairs were to occupy the position, well, the sky would be the limit. We can see the advantage in such an arrangement.

The Bokun Family
And Greetings to you.

Quite frankly, we can use all the help we can get. Of course we are very aware that our ideas on the division of labour and later division of spoils may not agree with yours, but then, I suppose, that one might say that beggars can't be choosers.

In any case, do come by the pub some day. This is the kind of arrangement that should be made in person.

Marko Bokun


The Lovelace Foundation
Baaliaton

Fascinating. My own organisation is old fashioned in many regards. For my role as Quaestor, I employ clerks and handwritten records. It is a question of reliability and reputation.

But the possibilities are intriguing. Perhaps insted of finance, your efforts could be turned to statistics? Modelling of the mortal population numbers, crime, wealth distribution, movement of goods? And in the royal world, the comings and goings of princely beings and their acolytes, their goods, their commerce?"

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

The woman working reception smiles warmly. "Of course! Let me call up and see who's available."
She picks up the mouthpiece of the telephone on her desk and dials an internal number.
"Dr. Kovac, I have a gentleman from the People's Voice Committee here. He says he wants to meet with the board?" She pauses for a moment, listening. "Yes, of course."
She turns back to the young man. "It looks like Dr. Kovacs and Dr. Vlohva are available. Someone will be down in a moment to take you up."

She reaches across the desk and hands him a lanyard on which hangs a card emblazoned with a large red V (and in smaller text, the words: "Visitor; escort required.")

Within a few minutes, the sliding doors at the back of the lobby open and a middle-aged woman in what appeared to be a men's pants and a suit jacket beckons the man into the elevator.
"I'm Petra Vlohva, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
As the elevator ascends, she narrows her eyes at the man.
"So," she says offhandedly. "Is this related to the election?"



A reply comes quite quickly:

It is excellent to see another of the same mind!
We had feared we were lacking in peers.
Many others interested in gaining knowledge, rather than power
still practice antiquated & inefficient superstition.
There is much to discuss.

"Of course! That would be an excellent use of our skills. And a challenge, to be sure. Thank you, your Highness. We hope to stay in touch, with whatever information we can provide to assist you in your work."

[HerbieRAI]

The Election

Emilia sits to the side, seemingly comatose

At Club Donau
The Pipe was listening to a beautiful girl singing a tryout for an act at the club. She was good, not the best the Pipe has heard, but pretty good. With a little coaching she could be as good as Emilia, but not much better. Otto and Stephan were enjoying the performance, but had a string of critiques ready to go to bring down her ego. Emilia may stand up for her, where was Emilia.... Crap, the elections are going on. The Pipe quickly moved its conscience across the town to the election right as Baaliation was finishing. Hopefully it didn't miss anything important, the Pipe was juggling too much these days getting ready to expand it candidate pool.

To Fwerstok Fisheries, Farkas Mining Conglomerate, Mayor Vedran Markovic (City Administration), Damjanac Heavy Industries

each group above receives the following invitation

Club Danau is hosting a special event for the Development of Novska. As one of the industrial leaders of the city you are hereby invited to join the gathering next Wednesday Evening.
(OOC: This will be the industrialist party in my next post)


To the Dollmaker

At the end of the election, Emilia approaches the doll,

"We are inviting many of the industrialists of the city for a gathering at Club Danau. The purpose is to further develop the city in their favor and create a friendship with those groups. I have included an invitation for you if you wish to attend."

She also hands an envelope with a letter

Club Danau is hosting a special event for the Development of Novska. As one of the industrial leaders of the city you are hereby invited to join the gathering next Wednesday Evening.

(OOC: This will be the industrialist party in my next post)


To Emily Vanders (and the professor of the Group of 5), the International Hunting Society, The Adriatic Times, The RALLY, Preston Fairmont, Novska FC

each group above receives the following invitation

Club Danau is hosting a special event for the Development of Novska. As one of the cultural leaders of the city you are hereby invited to join the gathering next Friday Evening.
(OOC: This will be the inventors party in my next post)


To the Lovelace Foundation

After the election Emilia approaches Ivan.
"We are inviting a large group of inventors and culture magnets to a party at Club Danau next Friday. If you are able to attend..." She hands you an invitation
Club Danau is hosting a special event for the Development of Novska. As one of the cultural leaders of the city you are hereby invited to join the gathering next Friday Evening.
(OOC: This will be the inventors party in my next post)


To Silver Falcon, The Dainava Howlpack (assuming they have a human form), Novska Police, The Blue Militia, Vascavin Medoze, Odette Medici (assuming she can leave her mansion)

each group above receives the following invitation

Club Danau is hosting a special event Saturday Evening and you are invited to attend.
(OOC: This will be the Long party in my next post)


To all Princes

Club Danau is hosting a party next Saturday evening. If you would like to attend and have not received an invitation please let us know and we will get you one with haste. Mortal attire and customs will be required.

[Copper8642]

ELTEST KHA

The Chtonic Temple wasn’t far outside of Novska, but still required a short trip from the city limits. The tall green figure that had left its chamber in the Light Club Lodge was a well-dressed human male before it left the building. By the time it was traveling the paths to the Temple, it appeared a rugged human hunter, and two other apparent hunters met it as an escort on its short journey. Eltest Kha’s human entourage stayed outside as it entered the Temple, its human shape quickly melting back to the bright shining figure that the alien considered its native form.

Even after all this time, Eltest Kha could not help but consider Earthly life unusual. The alien was not upset or regretful that it had come to exist on Earth, rather, none who spoke to it were ever truly sure it registered those emotions as it pursued some inscrutable purpose. However, those fa͢m͟i̛lia̴r ̢wi͢th̴ ̢the ͠a͟l̸ien knew it sometimes appeared to be working past some distraction or disturbance as it reconciled its own senses with Earthly sh͝a͡pes̡, co̷҉͏l̶̵o͏r͏͘͟s͟͠, d̀́͜͠i̢̧̨ŕ̵̵̨e͢c̶͜͞t̡͢i̸̡͟ơ̸͞͡n̨ş͡, T͘͢͢͢͝H̀͞҉͏Ę̵͘ ̧̕P͘̕Ą̷͟͟͜S̢̧S̵͏A̡͘͟͏G̀̕͝E̶̴̡͢ ̶̕͏Ǫ͘͜F̛͘͞ ̷̴̶̛̛T̴͢͟͜͞I̷͘M̛͜͏E̷̶͜͞. It was ironic then that the Cthonic Temple, for all its Earthen heritage, felt the most familiar to Eltest Kha. Millennia of use by the monstrous princes and the influence of their power has left the temple with a sort of aura, one that Eltest Kha cannot describe but can feel, and it feels familiar.

Eltest Kha waited for a moment to speak, having listened to Baaliaton’s speech, the questions from the assorted Princes, and the avatar of Solis Aeterni express his desire to see himself voted Quaestor.

“I believe I would be an acceptable Quaestor. You may vote for me if you feel that best. I do not have reason to believe that Novska would be served better by myself than another Quaestor, however. I will not be pushing for support for such votes and will not be voting for myself. Baaliaton, I agree that we have seen no true misfortunes arise from your service, but Solis is worth hearing out.
I wonder how Solis plans to use the role of Quaestor to establish more direct control of the… peninsula, unless the island you refer to is Yigusa? Once greater wealth is established, you speak of a powerful and proud Novska “serving” us. Is this a reference to returning the taxes back to the minor powers in exchange for loyalty? Deals with Mortal Novska? Or something else entirely?
I am curious as to what Balliaton has to say to Solis’s answers to my questions, as well as the thoughts of the Senate as a whole.

I would like to have a second matter discussed as well. I believe the Senate has a responsibility to discover what The Mist in Bakar is and what it is doing. Are any other Princes here in concurrence?”
---
MESSAGES TO PCS
To the Cloaked Leviathan
A plainly dressed man steps off the boat to Yigusa Island, seeking a representative of the Drowned. The man’s master, the Prince and alien Eltest Kha, had given him direction to meet with the followers of the Leviathan.
“Eltest Kha seeks correspondence with the followers of the Leviathan. We understand the interest that the Leviathan might have in access to the New Harbour, as the widest and deepest bay from which to access Novska, and resultant popularity as a port for incoming ships. The Light Club is currently seeking to bring the Port Authority to heel, to keep mortals from interfering with any Princes who may wish to make use of the port. We hope to keep the port open to the need of Leviathan and the Drowned, though in return we hope the Leviathan will leave the harbor to us, and the Drowned keep us apprised of any plans you have in those waters. Perhaps once we are more in control of the port and the Port Authority, we can share information on which ships might be valuable targets, and which ships we need left alone? Tell us what you think.”

To the Archivist
Nathaniel is led to a private room off the side of the main lobby of the Lodge, where a woman rises out of a large, padded chair. She appears to be wearing a military dress uniform of some sort, but no national identification or sign of mercenary loyalty can be seen.
“Ah, I am told you are a representative of the Lamplighters? You can speak to me, my name is Marissa Ensten. I trust avoidance of conflict will be easy, as the Light Club has no interest nor claim to the University District, nor any desire to create animosity with the Lamplighters or even the Novska Historical Society. We trust you do not intend to cause problems in New Harbour?
As for our mutual growths, I am interested in what you have to offer. We are currently focusing on getting more directly involved with the port, but if you know of other avenues for growth I am all ears.

To Solis Aeterni
“You may view it as tribute if you like. I am from beyond the stars, and you are the nearest star. In a way, this is a sort of connection. I would be happy to throw my support behind you, noble sun, but I would ask for at least some explanation of what I would be supporting. I am as glad you have a plan as you are glad I have one, and I am interested in helping them align.”

To the Joy Spiders
A man is given a waterproofed message and drowned off the cliffs of Castle Novask.:
“Princess Szeretet, my followers would be enamored with clothes and armor of your make, but I am still consolidating my power before I will have the funds to pay you for such tools. I am still interested in establishing a positive relationship, in preparation for a future arrangement. What do you think?”

To the Pied Pipe
“I will be there. Please, an address an invitation to Ethan Khast, if a mortal façade must be kept up.”

---
MESSAGES TO NPCS
To Silver Falcon
A former Austro-Hungarian soldier arrives at the Silver Falcon mansion as messenger from the Light Club.
“Hello. Many of us in the Light Club, as soldiers and former soldiers ourselves, wish to express our admiration of the actions of the Silver Falcon in the war. We would be interested in meeting your company, if you wish, perhaps to eat and meet with fellow soldiers and survivors of the war, share stories and that sort of thing. If things go well, let it be said that some of ours who are less eager to retire from the soldier life would be interested in membership in the Silver Falcons. Of course, any of your number interested in the brotherhood of the Light Club are free to apply for membership as well. Perhaps with enough shared membership, opportunities for shared training exercises or recruitment would be a possibility?”

To Farkas Mining Conglomerate
A letter, written by a human hand:
“Hello. Some of ours looking to plan a trip through the local mountains soon. We understand you and yours are prospecting the area for possible veins of valuables stones and metals, and we wanted to ensure that a troupe of men and women hiking in those mountains wouldn’t disturb you, or that we were not trespassing on your land.
Additionally, were we to go through with this trip, is there procedure in the Farkas Mining Conglomerate for accepting tips from outsiders, were we to notice anything in our travels?”

To Vascavin Medoza
A letter, written by an alien hand:
“Vampire, we see no reason one of your stature is denied the status of Prince for long. The tradition of seniority is irrelevant, and the establishment of a following is a minor obstacle. I wonder if a specific problem holds you back. Perhaps I can be of assistance?”

To City Militia
A woman in professional dress approaches Fort Karlovac with a message:
“Hello. As you may be aware, many members of the Light Club are former soldiers. Many of them would love to visit the fort, if they may, to perhaps help ease the restless transition to civilian life. They feel the opportunity to see the insides of a fort, see the guns and artillery again... they feel the familiarity may be comforting. Of course, many of us are also just interested in discussing the soldier’s lot in life with the soldiers of the militia and hear the stories from the mountain rangers.”

To Laurin King of Roses, Shamaran, and The Bleak Duke
Messages are sent to each of the ambassadors, asking what monsters or organizations each of them are ambassadors on behalf of.

To the Scion of Bast
A messenger from the Light Club does his best to track down the panther woman with the following message from Eltest Kha:
“Scion of Bast. I request your knowledge. What do you know of the rise and fall of Bast and her contemporaries? Entire pantheons banished, and only those such as yourself remain. I wish to know as much as I can of this subject. We will recompense you for this information if you wish.”

To the Growlers
Several Light Club members, underdressed and overarmed, seek out the Growlers in the Warren:
“We both know the Novska police overstep their authority at every step. We’re keeping an eye out for opportunities to tip local politics away from supporting such authoritarianism, but any egregious and visible crimes in the meantime are only going to drum up support for the police. You can count on us to support a weaker police force, but we believe you would do best to act with some subtlety in the meantime.”

To the City Administration
A written letter is addressed to the mayor in a human hand:
“Mayor Vedran Marković, the leader of the Light Club is interested in the wellbeing and independence of Novska, and by extension wishes a chance to provide you his support in exchange for you ear. He is interested in a chance to meet you and was hoping the name Ethan Khast might be added to the invitation list for an upcoming party or private event.
He trusts you are aware of the growing influence of the Light Club, and how helpful that might be.”

To the Blue Militia
An unsigned letter is passed off to a Blue Militia member, it reads:
“Heed this warning. We have reason to believe the rising string of murders in Novska may be related to the leader of the People’s Voice Committee. It is always the weak and the lost who are easiest to be targeted by such killers. Do not trust them, for the safety of your flock.”

To Midnight Sun
A letter, written in an alien hand:
“Skilled spy, I wonder how one of your talents takes their payment. Do you deal in mortal wealth, or something else?”

To the Novska Port Authority
A meeting is arranged between a few members of the Light Club and lower level suits of the Port Authority:
“We understand that the Port Authority is more a deterrent for pirates than a foreign invasion, but we understand the importance of the open port to the independence of Novska. To that end, we wish to work with the Port Authority to help you keep the port safe and running efficiently. You know as well as we do that the Port Authority and the Light Club are the most influential organizations in the New Harbour, and we have an interest in seeing it prosper. We know you are doing what you can but there is a lot we can bring to the table.”

To the Waxen Archive
Eltest Kha responds to the voice that he hears.
“You have come to the right city if you seek knowledge; ageless minds from all corners of this world and beyond reside here. Is there something specific that you seek?”

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation



Eva accepts the invitation graciously. "Of course, we are honored to be specifically requested to attend. As new members of the supernatural community, though, we will likely do the same thing we're doing today." She pats the top of the portable radio set she carries with her. I will attend in person, and allow the others to participate remotely, as a precaution."
"'It would be excellent to get to know the others in the community in a less formal setting,'" says a tinny voice from the radio. "'Hopefully you understand the need for caution.'"


Eva nods politely. "Our recent research has mostly been an ablation study of modern magical practice and the implementation of what we've been calling 'computational thaumaturgy.' We have found, in short, that the rituals detailed in what documents we've been able to procure include procedures or components that are unnecessary or even detrimental to the outcome." She pauses. "Indeed many 'spells' can be executed far more reliably by simple mechanical devices than by humans."

"We are curious if this aligns with your observations, and to see if our results are reproducible. If you'd like I can outline a simple experiment that we have been calling 'the empty spell,' the only effect of which is to notify the caster that the spell has successfully been cast."

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska

Election

Becker took a moment to consider the Sun’s words “The island? Do you mean Yigusa, as our extrasolar Prince says? Or, well, aiming for Eurasia seems a bit too ambitious, in present times.”

“As to the mist, the Archivist is entirely in agreement that it is a mystery we should unravel before any danger has a chance to spread or retrench itself. As a seeker of knowledge in all its forms, she would be happy to contribute some share of resources towards an expedition to do just that. And would welcome the participation of any who consider themselves invested in the wellfare of the city.”

PC



Lukas greeted the woman with a crisp, rather overly formal, salute as he listened to her words. For all that a scar ran straight through its deadened flesh, he seemed to be peering at her, and the club itself, through it with poorly disguised interest.

After a moments consideration, he replied “Of course you have no cause for concern on that front, our interests in the harbour of a strictly civilian nature, pertaining to the occasional import of esoteric, or perhaps a survey on its depths for wreckage at some future point. The latter strictly with your permission, of course.”

His manner of speaking is rather peculiarly composed, as if reading off a half-memorized script held in front of him, only occasionally remember to add affect or emotion.

“As to mutual growth, it truthfully is dependent on the shape of your ambitions. The Archivist has no visions of imperium, but does possess eyes enough to see the city is a powder keg in a world of sparks. The hinterlands, particularly, are rather full of terrors, but even within our walls your patron stands out as one of the more Reasonable and less Revelatory, so to speak, of the Princes. At this present moment my benefactor has no specific ambitions, beyond reaching out to fundamentally aligned lesser princes. But she has hopes of partnership and mutual support with your patron, if the idea appeals. Failing that, a modus vivendi would suffice, if disappoint.”




Becker leaned forward, eye gleaming as he took in the explanation.

“I’m honestly more of a theorist then a theurge at this age, but that does make a great deal of sense. By our current models, most of what gets called ‘magic’ is merely the utilization of various hypergeomtric principles and or exploiting edge cases in the intersections of various higher dimensions or frequencies. It’s not surprising that a sufficiently advanced device can carry out the procedures more efficiently, and dispense with the superstition and psychological crutches so many simple cultures burden them with.

Now, trade secrets and all, no need to do anything drastic beyond saying no if you have to. But would it be possible for me to see this device? In action, preferably. But even examining its structure might help discredit or validate a few different models on intentionallity and subjectivity and anthromorphic spiritualism. I’d love to here this experiment of yours as well, of course.”




An event for the ages, if the guest list is an indication, I would be failing if I didn’t request an invitation. Addressed to a Sophia, last name Diderot if it’s absolutely nescesary.

NPC



Giving the massive head of bees an amused nod, she replied “And already more polite than most humans, even. You really do have immense potential.”

Taking another long drink and wiping her mouth on her sleeve, she continued “Now, circumstances depend on what you need-if space or security becomes issues, I can provide somewhere entirely safe to regroup and work in. For the moment-” she made a grand gesture around the park “any particular agriculture you’d like our local larger species to be conducting here? I can spare you the effort of guiding.

But as to the important thing-your work. Our work, ideally. My purpose is to create a complete History of this particular clump of huts and all the interesting things that call it home. As the option presents itself, I’d rather like to have it recorded on your wax as well as my paper, and to credit you as co-authors.”




The Archivist smirked “My mortal proxies have a fair amount of owed favours and blackmail available, I’m sure some of them are attached to construction and shipping firms. I can extend that, and just carefully look away from the affairs of the bird bringing me reports on others’.

As to target-well, I will need to know a bit more about your expertise. Strictly social infiltration, or would you be able to investigate a more esoteric concern? This strange mist, to be specific."


Currently awaiting responses from: [PC] The Cloaked Leviathan, The Old Flesh, The Dollmaker [NPC] The Lazy Caravan
Currently composing responses to: [NPC] The Novska Historical Society

[Eldan]

The Election
As more princes chime in to demand records, Baaliaton sighs.
"Very well. I will just advise my clerks to make a public copy and deposit in the temple. These go back centuries of course, so expect the process to take a few weeks."

Kasdeveris
The Blue Militia
"We can always use resources of any kind, frankly. We live in tents, off international aid and have for years now. Anything is welcome.
That's short term.
Long term, we need citizenship and jobs. It's as simple as that.


Charnelcreep
The ghoul grins, an unsettling sight on a face that seems stuck together from three different skulls. He bares fangs, long and cured on the left side, broad and triangular like knives on the other. His voice is a lisping rasp, as he speaks, never taking his fingers off the trench-sweeper at his side, though he lazily touches a skeletal hand to what might be an old officer's cap of indeterminate nationality.

"Good for me, or good for you?" He holds up a femur. Big for a human, maybe a cow.
"You wouldn't care about this, but it is a feast. I did find some things that might be interesting. Did you know the city police forgot to shredder an entire stack of files before dumping them last week? I do. I've seen a few things in behind the old factories, too, but then, nothing one wouldn't expect. Or perhaps you are interested where the gangs used to dump their bodies?"

The Novska Police
Thank you, the offer is very much appreciated. You must of course have many contacts that would not speak to us.

Steiner is wanted for questioning regarding a possible triple homicide and arson. A pub burned down with three people inside and he was seen nearby. As you might imagine, him conveniently vanishing and no one seeing him for a week does not cast him in the best light.

Yours sincerely,
Comissioner Franjo

The Growlers
As far as the burly, hard-drinking, blue-collar types of the Growler-associated bars are concerned, Steiner might hae a bit of a cocaine problem, but is essentially a decent chap and those pig bastards are just using him as an excuse to bust some heads over an innocent bar fight.

The Dollmaker
The Bone Miller
Thank you for your words, they are much appreciated. It is good to know that I have continuing support. Currently, business is going very well and there are no complaints or urgent needs. If however, on the other hand, you have any investment suggestions, I am eager to hear them.

The Bone Miller

Damjanac Heavy Industries

Please be assured that we do not in any way fear socialists, we have our workers well in hand and are taking steps to improve the security situation. Why, just last week, we installed railings around the waste compactor and we have begun to slow down the conveyor belts when workers are required to crawl inside them.


The Cloaked Leviathan
The Tidesingers
Three witches have followed the Leviathan's call and have clad themselves in shapes appropriate for the occasion. They appear as eels, twenty feet long, large-jawed, black, leathery creatures, but with human hands and eyes the size of tennis balls.
They approach respectfully, eyes cast aside, making no quick movements.
"You called, oh master of the hadean depths, serpentine queen of the waveless darkness?"


Godseeker

A warm smile splits the Godseeker's white-bearded face, as he pushes open a door into a candle-light, cozy little sitting room, with armchairs around small tea table. Large oil paintings adorn the walls, showing classicist scenes from Greek and Roman mythology, while small statuettes on a sideboard depict mesoamerican, Asian, Egyptan divinities.
"Of course. Please, have a seat. I was wondering when you would come. Can I offer you anything? Tea, perhaps? I must admit that I do not know if you still drink."

[Murska]

Ophois

People's Voice Committee

The guests are well-received and offered a drink by a man calling himself Alfred Wiszne.

"Cooperation is of course important for those of us with more... fringe ideologies. Did you have something specific in mind?"

Club Danau

Salutations,

Thank you for your invitation. I would be most delighted to attend to your little soirée.

Ophois


The Bokun Family

A group of toughs led by a somewhat boisterous man by the name of Alfred Wiszne arrive at the Bokun establishment one evening, having had the courtesy to send a runner a few hours beforehand to give warning.

"Hey there! We thought we'd stop by to chat, like you mentioned."

[Eldan]

Archivist
The Caravan
A few rather taciturn men lead the professor to the back of the caravan, bringing after a short and terse conversation between them to a tent, where a smiling young woman shakes his hand.
"Evening, Professor. I am Jeta. You had a question about the recent omen?"

The Election
As Solis Aeterni speaks, Baaliaton just smiles condescendingly, then replies.
"Some royalty blazes like fire. Bright for a while, and then nothing left but hot air. Others take the long view.
What benefit do we have, taking the mortals in hand directly, why make the effort? We control their leaders, their leaders control the mortals. Simple, and they never know that they are chained. A light hand serves a master often very well."

Solis Aeterni
The Bone Miller
We do what we can. Modern industry has so many fascinating applications.

It just so happens that business has been going so well lately that we are open to investment ideas. What did you have in mind, specifically?

The Group of Five

We would be honoured! I had no idea that such an illustrious group had their seat in this town, though the Professor tells me that I really should have known.

When csan we make your acquaintance?

Yours,
Emily Vanders


The International Hunting Society

Welcome the Sun!

We could make a tasteless comment here that fairy tales tell us that we should never eat the food offered by monsters, but then, guest rights are generally well respected, so we'll gladly come and enjoy your hospitality.

Your Servant,
Freiherr Wilhelm Friedrich zu Rothorn-Steibenberg, Huntmaster


(Answered to Post 18)

[Eldan]

Eltest Kha
The Silver Falcon
After a short security check done by two very attentive young soldiersr, the visitor is shown into the mansion itself. From somewhere further back into the estate, gunfire and shouting can be heard, muffled by the trees.

The captain's office is rather spartan, featuring a desk, two chairs, a filing cabinet, a map of the balkans on one wall and a larger one of the local coastline and mountains on the other and behind the desk a hanging flag with the heavily stylized, almost abstract diving falcon that is the group's emblem. On the desk lie blueprints of some kind of machine, a heavy vehicle, perhaps.

"Capital idea. We are always looking for experienced soldiers. And if any of your veterans would be interested in organizing some lectures or exercises, we'd be grateful for any knowledge they can share, too. Why don't you send some of your fellows over for a meal sometime?"


Farkas Mining Conglomerate
Unless you make a habit of climbing over tall fences or down exploratory shafts, no, there would be little danger of trespassing. If we find anything promising, we get it fenced off. So, do not worry and enjoy your hike. THe local area has many wonderful natural features for tourists.

As for any serendipitious finds you might make, feel free to contact our chief geologist, Dr. Salvatore.

Feel free to direct more inquiries my way at any point you might like.

Vihali Haraszti, Director of Public Relations


Vascavin Medoza
Mostly politics. Seems the senate rules are that unless one has been here a century or so, one needs a sponsor in the senate and a two-thirds majority vote to be accepted in.

As for the following, that too is proving a bit more difficult than I'd like, but I'm working on it.

The City Militia

From the Desk of the General:

I am sure we can arrange a meeting and a tour, though of course, some areas will have to remain off limits. Anything we can do to help our veterans. We will send you more information on convenient times.


THe Ambassadors

OOC:
Perhaps I should have made this clearer in the description, but the Ambassadors were intended to be ambassadors from the monstrous communities of the three large local empires, the Austro-HUngarian (Laurin), the Russian (the Duke) and the Ottoman (The Shahmaran).


The Scion of Bast

Recompense will be made.

A going theory was that they required mortal belief and withered away without it. That is close to the truth, but not entirely so.

They do what the Royal Kind still does today: they fed on mortals and traded their power in return. And many of the oldest ones, they liked civilization, when it became a thing. They ritualized everything, bound themselves to mortal culture. Regular meals, if you will.

And as the cultures and the rituals changed and gods were syncretized and civilization conquered, they failed to adapt. Their power waned and they became weak.

And then... war. Predators, like the Leviathan, or those just wishing to remove a rival, topple their temples. Or mortals, who got too wily at their own magics and bound or drained what little might was left in them, to rise to Royalty themselves. Some, simply torpor. Many, we simply don't know.


The Growlers

Subtlety? They hunt us like dogs and blame us for every crime in the city. Subtlety is for fancy politicians. We won't let them push us around forever.


(Halfway through post 18, a bit long that one.)

[Nyrt]

"Oh, of course! If you'd like to pay a visit to our facilities in Venetian Square you're more than welcome. It seems your studies on the topic have been a tad more... holistic than ours, and a different perspective could prove invaluable."

[Eldan]

Eltest Kha
City Administration

The letter arrives neatly typewritten on elegant paper, printed with a city crest letterhead.


"Dear Mr. Khast

Yes, I am aware of the Light club and their influence, and I think also reasonably well-aware of how far that influence extends, if you can follow my meaning there.

So yes, I do think we should talk. Please find attached some invitations you may wish to follow, I will be at your disposal.

Yours sincerely,
Mayor Vedran Marković"

The Blue Militia
Interesting that you speak of a recent string of murders. As far as we are aware, the murders have been pretty much constant since forever. But we will look into it.

Midnight Sun
Most of my needs can indeed be satisfied on the open market, even if I need to go through some intermediaries and pay for discretion. Mortal currency will suffice.

The Port Authority

Such as?

Now, don't mistake me, we are not ungrateful for the offer, or mistake you for meddling amateurs of the kind that sometimes think they can play police, but really, we have the situation reasonably well in hand and don't think we need much help."


The Waxen Archive

At first, there is a crackling and howling, as if of radio static on a dead channel. Then, several voices begin to speak at once. Without an extraordinary mind and sensory apparatus, they would be barely intelligible.

++++Detected: high information density, estimated class nine entity. Threat assessment: Prince Class.++++

++++Optimization problem. Acquired knowledge vs. maximum foraging distance, limited nutritional density (power). Current solution maximization of knowledge density re:obscure subjects.++++

++++We interrupt the afternoon dance music broadcast for an important weather update++++

++++Goal: acquire TOTALITY. Subset: all information. Difficulty: long-term storage. Difficulty: obseration. Difficulty: Knowledge lost in history +/- noise, information density++++

++++Hi! We think we might like you. Will you be our friend?++++

++++Reciprocity. Wish for off-world information. What is desired in trade?++++

[Eldan]

The Archivist
Waxen Archive
++++Agriculture: nonspecific. Input protein, oil, sugar, water, output, carbon dioxide, heat. Current problem: cooling, not nutrient input++++

++++Clump of huts: classification, sarcasm. Response: wry laughter.++++

++++As for the weather, temperatures continue to remain around zero all through the week, bring a coat. An now, Schubert's Concerto in c minor.++++

++++Replication: suspicion of inefficiency. Prudence implied re: disaster recovery. Agreement.++++

++++Credit/co-authorship implies audience. Who?++++


Midnight Sun
"Social infiltration preferred. Mountains don't really agree with me, though I could do underwater. And I'm a spy, not a researcher, you must understand. If you know someone who has already researched what you need to know, by all means, I can steal a copy for you. Otherwise, difficult."

Ophois
The Bokun Family

The Bokun establishment is a mid-quality, reasonably clean pub called "The Peasant's Crown". Their toughs, likewise, make an effort to be somewhat respectable and discrete: a dozen middle-aged and young mean in mostly clean shirts, sitting and standing around the periphery of the pub, quietly playing cards and darts. Weapons are not in evidence.

A jovial man in his fifties, tanned and with muscle slowly going to fat on his arms, stands up to great the newcomers. There are criss-crossing boxer's scars around both of his eyes, and his nose has been badly broken at least once in his life, but his dark suit is reasonably well made.
He smiles broadly. "Ah, welcome. Make yourself at home, gentlemen. I am Ivan Bokun." He gestures at a younger, taller, leaner version of himself next to him. This is my son, Josip. What can we offer you to drink?"

[neriractor]

Kas

PCs

Michael thanks the receptionist, putting the Lanyard on without too much issue.

He nods when the Dr arrives, following her to the elevator "is my pleasure Dr Vlohva, I presume you know who I am?"

He matched her narrowed eyes with unblinking scrutiny of his own, answering her question in just as casual a manner "Partly, yes. But I'm rather curious to speak with the... thinking engine, not to weight it on its envoy but I'd rather meet my fellow princes as directly as possible."

"Well, Majoral elections at least are quite far off, but supporting the same candidate can help us see off the man who is keeping change off Novska. in the meantime we'd just try to cause as little problem for the other as we can, anything less discreet might press the other parties into an union of their own"

Milos sips his drink and smiles "of course, if you have anything in mind..."

Please do.

NPCs

"If only it was so easily done, too many and the city oppose that long term. Do know we are working for it all. ¡lifes worth living!"

Milos stares indifferent at the creature, like I haven't eaten good steak, he keeps from rolling his eyes though. The thing had knowledge, and he couldn't work blindly...

"interesting for you, maybe. Still, tell me the whole bits and I'll treat you to a real feast" teeths turn into fangs for a grin, they are all predators here.

so the offer here would be: A) Compromising to use hunger this turn to feed and B) Allowing Charnelcreep to follow Kasdeveris around while he does so, feeding on the scraps (losing 1 or 2 hunger for Kasdeveris)

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

"Oh, I," Petra stutters, eyes widening. "I hadn't realized! I'm very sorry, we're all new to this."

The elevator reaches the fifth floor and they depart into a room lined with orderly banks of electronics, massive racks of blinking lights, and inscrutable tangles of cables. The persistent hum which could be heard faintly from the lobby reaches a crescendo as they exit into the lab. Several other members of the foundation argue over a pair of schematics in a spew of indecipherable technical jargon, but quiet when they see the visitor. She nods to them and they hurry to man a pair of terminals placed near the back of the room. The hum only grows louder.

"'Welcome, Kasdeveris,'" says a tinny, disjointed voice from speakers placed on a terminal nearby. Lights in the walls flicker rapidly with a faint crackling sound as the Engine speaks. "'It's good that you come here to talk. You present a dilemma: You could destroy the Foundation in an instant, such is your power. It is necessary for survival that what can be gained through cooperation is greater than from destruction, when there is so much to be lost. The equilibrium in this city has become unstable, and prone to fall in a dangerous direction without intervention.'" The Engine pauses as a high whine cuts through from an adjacent room. '"How can the Foundation be of service?'"

[ArcaneStomper]

The Election
Princess Szeretet remained silent throughout the formalities of Baaliaton and then the unexpected challenge from Solis Aeterni. Her eight eyes took in everything, but frankly she wasn't paying much attention. She wasn't going to be taxed, the taxes weren't going to help her, and she had no interest in the position itself. She was only here in case one of those things changed.

In the meantime she was spinning new threads and her legs clicked together as she wove some nice human clothing. Gifts for some guests she would hopefully be having soon.

A woven letter is expertly parachuted into the Light Club for the Eltest Kha's perusal.

"Eltest Kha, It brings my heart joy that you have reached out to me. Let us meet to discuss such a mutually beneficial arrangement. I invite you to my home in Castle Novask. Just le me know a convenient time.

Best Wishes,
Princess Szeretet

Letters written in thin spidery cursive are delivered to each of the group of five by couriers.

"Dear Heroes,

I have come to understand that your efforts have prevented the rise of some manner of death cult. Which sounds like quite the tale. And that also your impromptu group has decided to establish your headquarters in Novask Castle.

As it it happens I also live in Novask Castle, and as such I am inviting you all to a small get together. I feel there are things you should be informed of, especially if we are to being living in close proximity.

Best Wishes,
Princess Szeretet

Skillful spiders swiftly weave a web where Vjecno will find it. It appears to be a wispy thing, but it is inexplicably resistant to breakage. Which is rather important for the words its threads outline.

Dear Vjecno,

I've just moved into this charming little city and I've learned that you are my nearest neighbor. I invite you to meet so that we may chat and get to know each other.

Best Wishes,
Princess Szeretet

With some trepidation a weaver is directed to deliver a letter written on fine parchment to the hives of the archive.

"Dear Bees,

I apologize for the vague title. My own hive mind has long been subsumed into myself. And it was never very strong. Spiders aren't one for hives you know. So I don't recall the formalties for dealing with an entity such as yourself.

That said there are certain things I wish to know. And things I wish to not be known. In return I can provide historical information as well as my advice on low density heat dissipation methods. Wax is all well and good for structures, but unless you're alloying it properly you won't be getting best results.

Best Wishes,
Princess Szeretet

[Zemalac]

THE DREAMING PLAGUE

“I can’t sleep, doctor.”

The man on the couch is dressed in sturdy, well-made clothes, but still gives the impression of being ragged around the edges. Hollows under his eyes and nails chewed down to the quick.

“Every time I close my eyes and lay down to rest, I see them,” he continues. “I can’t stop thinking about it. Their faces in the gas. Couldn’t have been more than fourteen years old.”

“Powerful moments such as that do have a way of etching themselves into memory,” says the doctor. “I believe we can help you with that, if you're willing.”

“This won’t make me forget about them, will it?” the man says. “I mean, I just want to be able to sleep. I don’t want to forget those kids. I, you know, I guess..." He hesitates. "I feel like I owe it to them. Someone needs to remember.”

“The hypnosis therapy won’t erase your memory, no,” says the doctor. “It just...smooths out the jarring burr in your subconscious that this event has created. Eases the edges of the etching, if you like. You will remember them, but the memory won’t be as painful.”

“Doc, I gotta be honest, I don’t really know what that means,” says the man on the couch.

“Don’t worry about it,” says the doctor. “Just know that you will forget nothing.”

The man thinks for a moment.

“All right, then,” he says. “Let’s do it.”

“Very well,” says the doctor. He raises a pendulum, a stone carved with strange symbols at the end of a fine chain, and sets it swinging. “Follow the pendulum with your eyes.”

“You are tired. You are weary. Do not close your eyes, but sink down into the cushions and rest.”

“Now, with your eyes open, begin to dream...”

To Kasdeveris, from A Strange ApparitionMichael Milos is in an alleyway of the refugee camp late at night, doing things that you don't need to concern yourself with, when the thing appears.

It is not a man. It almost looks like one, but there's something wrong about the edges, like you're squinting while looking at it. It makes Milos' eyes water, before Kasdeveris suppresses that human instinct in his borrowed mortal body.

It doesn't say anything, but as he opens his mouth to speak Kasdeveris can suddenly remember it having spoken.

HELLO, it does not say.

A WORD WITH YOU REGARDING THESE FLEETING SOULS

DEATH CONSUMES THAT WHICH SUSTAINS

WE WISH TO ASCERTAIN IF YOUR PLANS INVOLVE THE DEMISE OF ALL THOSE WITHIN THIS TERRITORY / NEIGHBORHOOD / DELINEATED PLACE

NOT TO STOP YOU

JUST TO KNOW

WHAT DO YOU DREAM ABOUT
This is not real
It is better than that

To St. Horace's Veterans Society, from the InstituteAn orderly walks among the veterans at St. Horace's, talking quietly with the broken men and distributing small informational pamphlets.


YOU GAVE YOUR ALL
YOU NEED NOT SUFFER FOR IT

The Novska Institute for the Study of Mental Derangement has developed revolutionary new techniques for restoring mind and body
Clear away the remnants of shell shock
Dispose of unwanted memories
Train your mind to think clearly and rationally
Live the life you have earned, through your service and your suffering

Come to the Runstelv Memorial Asylum, and ask for Doctor Tolks
This is not real
It has no end

To the Undivided, from This Same Old NightmareThe dream is always the same.

The shriek as the shells come down.

The gibbering madness of the orders on the telegraph line, repeating "HOLD, HOLD, HOLD," like the lieutenant hammering the keys back in the headquarters trench could make it happen through sheer repetition.

The sight of Pierre's face, laughing as he breathed in the gas.

The mortar landing at his feet, and the sudden moment of grateful peace as he realized he was about to die, and be done with this hell.

Sometimes it was a dud, and all it did was splash him with mud and Pierre's blood. This is what had actually happened, and it was always disappointing.

Sometimes, it exploded.

Tonight, it spoke to him.

It talked to him of a world scoured free of this disease that built only to destroy. A world cured of the human condition.

It talked to him of a peace that could never be broken. It talked to him of folly, and glory, and how close they both were to each other.

And it told him how a new world could be made.
This is not real
But it should be

To the Blue Militia, from the InstituteTo Whom it May Concern,

I have been given to understand that you and your compatriots have been engaged in protecting those unfortunates in the refugee camp who most need protecting--which is a laudable achievement, to be sure. However, I also understand that there are those who, while certainly not innocent, are not deserving of the sternest of punishments. I wish to offer you an opportunity, for those individuals that might be able to be rehabilitated into more upstanding citizens--send them to us at the Runstelv Memorial Asylum. We have had great success recently in altering or removing criminal impulses at a subconscious, and I am eager to apply these new findings to the benefit of all Novska.

We also have had some great success in improving the mental states of the insane or broken, which I feel is especially relevant to those affected by the recent great disaster that has enveloped all of Europa and, indeed, the world. In addition to rehabilitation of criminals, I would like to offer my services to anyone you know who might need to refocus themselves, or recover from shell shock, or relieve themselves of other maladies of the mind. These are not embarrassing disorders that need to be hidden in shame from the world; not any more, at least, thanks to the miracles of modern science.

Yours truly,
Doctor Hermann Tolks
“How do you feel?” asks the doctor.

“Better, actually,” says the man, surprised. “Rested. I haven’t felt this good since I got back from the war.”

The doctor smiles. “I’m so glad to hear that.”

To Novska Police, from the InstituteSir,

I come to you with an offer of aid. Your police force is doing great work, but you carry a terrible burden, and as a citizen hoping to help improve this city I would like to do what I can to help. We have recently opened a new wing of the Runstelv Memorial Asylum, and I am ready to take criminally insane patients in the hopes of keeping them safe from harm and, in time, possibly rehabilitate them into respectable citizens. We have had great success with recent subconscious therapies that allow us to calm the wild beast inside the heart of the madman, and to mute criminal impulses in the mind of the career troublemaker, and I would like to be able to apply these therapies for the greater good of all Novska.

Yours truly,
Doctor Hermann Tolks

The man walks a black desert, devoid of all life
In the distance his fears and desires pile into mountains
He does not look at the thing which fills the sky
Imprisoning, looming, comforting, protecting
He is safe here
So long as it allows him to be
So long as he dreams the right dreams
It will be there
Forevermore
This night and all the nights to come

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska

PC



Becker leaned back and clapped his hands “Wonderful! Just say when I should arrive, and what I should bring. I will try to do some reading up before hand – the problem with knowing more theory then practice is that it can be hard to keep the important things at the top of your mind.”

Lowering his voice, a conspiratorial look on his face, he continued “I’ll hopefully have a few more, ah, prosaic ideas as well, once I speak to my comrades and the Archivist. If your Foundation feels the same, I think we can do great things together.




Alison Tester was rather unusual for the location-Americans not exactly being thick on the ground on the Adriatic. A ship captain in the Lamplighter’s employ, her eye permanently swollen shut like the aftermath of a bad bar fight. Kept perpetually busy attending to the Orient’s affairs outside the city proper, one chilly morning found her arriving at the Blazing Sun, asking to speak with a senior officer.



NPC



The decrepit old man took the hand and shook it warmly “A pleasure, as always.”

Stepping fully into the tent, lowering his voice, he continued “I was hoping you might provide some elaboration or context, honestly. A ‘place of needing company and surest care’ describes quite a few areas of our fair city, after all.”





The Archivist hid a laugh, poorly. “Fair. We’ll have to wait until some other industrious types do the research, then. For now, hmm, that puts digging up the story of the lump of meat feeding itself to everyone more in your area?”





“Weather control’s beyond me at the moment, but there’s plenty of insulated space available if you desire it.”

Giving a pleased little nod at the sign of agreement, she began to pace, arms behind her back as she fell into a well-practised bit of rhapsodizing

“I’m truly pleased to hear it. I’ve barely any eyes with which to see in the here and now, and it truly pains me to think of everything that might be passing by unrecorded.

And our audience? The only one that matters-posterity. In one thousand years, this city will be a footnote in the legends of dead empires. In one million, humanity’s bones will have been picked clean by its children and creations. Soon enough, history takes a breath and this bright little star reduces the whole planet to cinders and ash. I, and I hope you as well, consider this a tragedy. So we observe, record, pry and scry and intrude, violate every trust and unravel every conspiracy. All to ensure that when everything you can perceive is dust, as little as possible will have been lost.”

Stopping to calm herself with another long drink of tea “I think I might have an idea about the weather control, actually. It’ll be ugly but-you mostly just need this particular park warmer, and until Spring?”




To the Esteemed Wilhelm Holub, esq,

Salutations and Best Regards,

Your reply was very well received, and I thank you for taking the time to send it. While any expertise you’d be willing to share on any aspect of our fair city is more then welcome, at the moment our fellowship has found itself preoccupied with the history of the Bakar mountains and the baths therein. Does your fine society have the good luck to boast any experts on the subject?

Fondest Regards,
Ms. Elsa Keay, on behalf of the Illuminated Orient of Novska

[3SecondCultist]

The Cloaked Leviathan

PCs

The creature that greets the extrasolar's representative looks like he was a proud man, once. A naval uniform - whose color now is impossible to state definitively - hangs in tatters around a thickset but muscular frame, and sodden black hair has long since outgrown its regulation. Coiling dragons, or perhaps more serpents, gild in gold that which was Drowned long ago. Fleet Admiral Zheng He stands at attention, having awaited visitors on the rocks for some time.

"Bargain with my master is sought, not offered - it is good of you and yours to acknowledge this, and come wielding etiquette. The terms of keeping the port are deemed acceptable to the Serpent below, but my master cares not for wood or iron. Instead, we would ask of you the secret doings of immortal souls at work in the city, whenever convenient. Would such an counter-proposal be amenable to your Prince?"
The creature - for it was a man, once, but now is neither living nor dead - chuckles at the appellation of 'Beast'. It sounds like nothing so much as gasping for air against a senseless tide.

"To the radiance of Solis Aeterni, the Cloaked Leviathan would like to express its admiration. There are very few in this city that it would consider a true peer, and fewer still who wield the might of divinity as the Eternal Sun. It is in this spirit of kinship that my master is offering an arrangement." The Drowned from Tyre pauses as a minnow escapes from a hole in its sunken cheek to fall on the ground below. "The Leviathan bid me tell you this: 'a king does not kill a king. Instead, let us feed upon these lesser godlings. Neither sun nor sea need encroach upon the other.'"
The white haired woman nods implacably. "It is true that my master's presence here has rippled the waters. Already, there are those who undoubtedly conspire to scourge the depths of the Leviathan's trace. They will fail, but it is in the nature of such princelings to reach beyond their grasp. Only disaster awaits them." The Vinlander clears her throat.

"As for those who have sought us out to offer terms, such as your own master, we will respond in kind. The Leviathan lives to hunt the divine, but your Archivist has worth beyond the sustenance the Serpent would gain from devouring it. Your mention of 'contingencies' only confirms what we already knew: your Prince has a mind for secrets, and the inclination to keep them." The Drowned warrior shifts her weight, the presence of a large rusted axe at her belt suddenly impossible to ignore. "My master would trade such whispers for safe passage from the storm to come."

NPCs

Jack Scrimshaw, in his human life a sailor, prisoner, and rogue, is perhaps the least august of the Leviathan's prizes. Nevertheless, it is the Australian who has been front and center in the Serpent's political schemes, so it comes as little surprise that the Drowned who arrives to speak with the Quaestor of Novska is the very same who attended the Election meeting earlier.

Waiting patiently until called upon, no goldfish to be seen, Scrimshaw observes the proper manners when addressing the self-proclaimed Son of Astarte. "Far be it from me to speak out of turn," the Drowned man rasps, "but my master has now witnessed those who would claim to be your rival, and believes that you may want a friend in the deep end of the pool, so to speak. The sun may burn itself out, but it is hardly the only one knocking at your door. The Cloaked Leviathan has no interest in what it sees as frivolous titles. Instead, let it help you remain a king among princes."
The Abyssal Plain of the Adriatic is not as deep as its name might imply. Between surface and silt, there is on average less than a kilometer of water. To the north, between Venice and Trieste, the sea's depth is barely three hundred feet. The waters there have been well-traveled for centuries, ever since the Romans. Italian mariners have learned the subtle currents of the sunny waves, plying their trade between the rocks and coves of that coast for as long as there have been two towns with cargo to offload.

The same qualities cannot be ascribed to the Pit. A place where the sun's rays do not reach, the plain descends sharply into utter darkness below. For years, there were predators in these waters. Now there is only one.

The three witches of the Tidesingers find at first that nothing is waiting for them. Adjusted as they surely are to the shocking cold, intense pressure, and complete obscurity that the Pit brings, all they spot are the cavernous walls of that submerged place. It is at that moment that the very shadows begin to move. What might have at first seemed like a reef shifts, the faintest glimmer of scales and fins catching the witches' bulbous eyes. The Serpent is, in fact, impossible to make out in full, but there is a set of numerous glowing, serpentine red eyes looking back at the trio balefully from the darkness.

"Flatterers," intones the Cloaked Leviathan, and its very voice is the echo of waves grinding on rocks. "I have summoned you here, to my lair, because as creatures of the sea you owe me awe. Luckily for you, I did not come to Novska to dine on my own descendants - a hunt is underway. However, I have no need for human titles, territories, or possessions. Join me, and I will show you what it means to exalt in an enemy's demise. You can keep what you steal."
"A spot of tea would be lovely," replies the briny Crozier. He returns the smile, which is actually nowhere near as comforting as it ought to be, considering the blackened teeth and the bits of coral that poke out from his throat. "None of us live as mortals anymore, but I confess that I would enjoy the sight nonetheless."

Taking the time to examine many of the antiques as well as commenting on their provenance, the former officer of the HMS Erebus does his best not to drip any sea water on his host's floor while finding himself a comfortable seat. "Yes, well I suppose I should get down to business. I come bearing glad tidings from the depths below: as long as my master has a foothold in this city, you will be made safe from the sea. The Leviathan has no desire to destroy human history - far from it, in fact - and so you can continue your studies in peace. Furthermore, with your permission, we can make it known that you are under the Leviathan's protection."

Crozier takes his cap in hand before continuing. "In exchange, all my master asks for is information. Novska is a den of divinities, and the Leviathan is about to embark on a hunt the likes of which has yet to be seen by this world. We would ask that you aid my master's efforts by sharing what you might know on several of its Princes."

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska



The Lamplighter carefully considered the Drowned's words, striking a match and lighting a cigarette for several long moments. After a long puff, she replied

My patron will appreciate the vote of confidence, I'm sure. The deal's agreeable, but that means a storm is coming, then? If I'm going to be a little bird whispering in your ear, I'd appreciate a bit of warning on when to get off the ground, too. Some safety from wolves in the woods, or hungry things in the sky, maybe?

[HerbieRAI]

The Pipe

The Wednesday Night Industrialists Party

Current Invite List: Fwerstok Fisheries, Farkas Mining Conglomerate, Mayor Vedran Markovic (City Administration), Damjanac Heavy Industries, The Dollmaker

As the invite's enter an usher takes their invitations and leads them to the large room on the second floor balcony. It overlooks the stage and the dance floor that currently has many small tables listening to a soft jazz band. The room has its own small bar, but any mixed drinks have to come from one of the other bars in the building. After a respectable meal Otto stands up.

"I would like to invite everyone to Club Donau. We normally do not have meetings like this, but we hope you enjoy the gathering. It was put on by Eric Stardt who, if I remember correctly, would like to have a quick word.."

Eric stands up a few seats down the table. "Yes, My name is Eric Stardt and I am a displaced Entrepreneur who came to this fine city during the war. Now that it has ended, I believe the city and all of us here have a significant opportunity that we shouldn't pass up. One of the great inventions of the last century was the railroads, and they are all throughout the rest of the world. I think with the assistance of everyone in this room we can create our own connection into that network and significantly boost Novska's trade capabilities. Now the details will need to be hammered out, but if we can get everyone here to agree that is the direction we want to go, I think we can achieve this goal. What are your thoughts?"

At that he looks around and motions for the others to give their opinions.


The Friday Night Inventors Party

Current Invite List: Emily Vanders (and the professor of the Group of 5), the International Hunting Society, The Adriatic Times, The RALLY,the Lovelace Foundation, Novska FC

As the invite's enter an usher takes their invitations and leads them to the large room on the second floor balcony. It overlooks the stage and the dance floor that currently has many small tables listening to a soft jazz band. The room has its own small bar, but any mixed drinks have to come from one of the other bars in the building. After a respectable meal Otto stands up.

"I would like to invite everyone to Club Donau. We normally do not have meetings like this, but we hope you enjoy the gathering. It was put on by Eric Stardt who, if I remember correctly, would like to have a quick word.."

Eric stands up a few seats down the table. "Thank you, My name is Eric Stardt, and I am a displace Entrepreneur who came here during the war. I am here to offer you guys to get in on the start of the first Novska Radio station for entertainment. This technology has already been pioneered in America, and has been used throughout the war. This will give us a new, stronger way to communicating with the people of the city. This broadcast will allow us to reach huge new audiences and turn the city into the jewel of the country. Who is interested?"


The Saturday Night Long Party

Current Invite List: Silver Falcon, The Dainava Howlpack (assuming they have a human form), Novska Police, The Blue Militia, Preston Fairmont, Vascavin Medoze, Odette Medici (assuming she can leave her mansion), The Archivist, Ophois, Ethan Khast

The club was packed tonight. The tables that usually sit on the bottom level had been removed from the dance floor and was standing room only. For someone who likes personal space it would be hell. The invitees were given a pass to the second floor balconies, that oversaw the pit of people and the band playing hit American songs. Here there was some room, as the different balconies had been divided up so people would have a little privacy and space.

For those of supernatural side, they were given an upstage pass, which gave them access to a third floor. Significantly smaller than the other 2, it had a one way window looking over the mass of mortals.

After the number ends, Otto walks out onto the stage. "I would like to welcome everyone to this great celebration. We have been through hard times in the past decade, possibly the hardest times any peoples will ever go through, and we have survived. There will be hardships in all our futures, but lets forget all those for tonight and celebrate the bright and glorious future ahead of us!" As those lucky enough to still have a drink toast the band starts back up again and Otto walks off the stage.

To the Howlpack

Emeila comes into the Howlpacks balcony. "We hope you are enjoying yourselves. I'm going to be up front with you, we invited you here for more than a good time, we would like to offer you a deal. We would like to have some of your people stationed at the club to act as bouncers, and in return we would help you rebuild your pack. If you need help recruiting or cash we can assist."


To Preston Fairmont

Otto enters Preston's balcony. "How are things going? Let me be the first to welcome you to Club Danau, the hottest club in the city. I have to know, how does this place compare to the clubs in America?"


To Novska Police

Stephen comes into the Novska Police balcony. "Everyone having a good time up here? I'm Stephen of the Turkey Trot Trio. We're making rounds introducing ourselves and we'd like you to know we support the work you do for our great city.


To Odette Medici

Emeila dances over to Odette. "I hope you're having a good time. You seem to know your way around a party, you get out of the mansion often?"



To the GM

I know we don't have mid turns, but I'm going to be using 1 Econ to promote and fund the Long Party. The plan is to make it a large and significant party.

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

Eva pipes up from where she's seated midway down the table. "We're already using radio technology extensively in our work-- we'd be happy to provide our expertise. As frivolous as entertainment radio station may seem from an academic perspective, the allure to civilian listeners could enable instantaneous communication of emergency bulletins, which could save countless lives. We may need to have a discussion about programming however. This could be a powerful tool to educate, or in the wrong hands, mislead, the public." Eva gives a meaningful glance to Otto.

[neriractor]

Kasdeveris

PCs

He waves any sort of concern from the doctor with a smile "no worries, just keep voting PVC"

Kasdeveris looks fairly interested in the awe-inspiring machinery occupying half the room (that he could see), and inspects it from one side to the other, staying at a prudent distance of course, until the thinking engine makes its voice heard.

He replies with a nod, presuming that the thinking engine has some way to see it, its expression almost unchanged afterwards even as its strength is praised, gestures and blinking only returning when it replies "they did not miss the mark when naming you, the city is a powder keg, much like europe was..." It lets the parallel rest for a moment, "I came out of curiosity, I've met many scientists who in their time claimed a place in our world, but never an invention, still, the foundation could do many things for me, answer, first of all. Do you seek to stop any sparks or just come out on top when the keg goes off?"

A separate comment was made when hearing the nearby whining, an appreciative eyebrow raised "noisy food?"

In a brief movement, perhaps one or two seconds too long, any tears are wiped from its face.

Starting with an Archaic salute as a ways of hello, it scarcely spends any time thinking of replies before making them. It did after all not hear the words in real time.

"Mutual survival of both hunter and cattle, that's what senate members would reply with open doors. I'm the only I know for certain does care when doors are closed."

"What I dream? hopefully not you, no offense"

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

A tiny voice pipes up from the radio resting on the table in front of Eva. It is too quiet, to be heard, at first, but she adjusts a knob and the volume grows to fill the room.

"'In any conflict between princes longer than a single encounter, the most certain path to victory is to grow in power faster than the opposition, by consuming more. However, when such a conflict occurs, even un-involved princes have an incentive to consume, to avoid being weaker than the eventual victor or missing out on valuable resources. Humanity is a renewable resource, however the rate of growth increases with the population base. Thus, internal strife reduces not just the mortal population, but also the long-term growth rate of all princes in the area.'"

"'Short term bursts of growth locally result in falling behind in the long term.'"

"'This will have the effect of weakening of the city's protection from external supernatural threats. If the density of princely beings is consistent with the human population density, which appears from current data to be the case, the probability is low that that the most powerful supernatural being on the planet is in this city. in addition, many wild or feral princes are posited to exist outside the bounds of more civilized organization such as exists here. While the former is a more formidable threat, the latter is more likely to expose supernatural activity to the mortal world.
Caution and cultivation of limited resources is necessary to the mutual survival of all present here.'"

"'The name for that which consumes only to grow without regard for long-term survival is 'Cancer.' Unless treated, it destroys the host, and thus itself.'"


The scientists seem to not even hear Kasdeveris' comment, but the Engine responds without hesitation.
"'Troublesome hardware. Current electrical components have poor heat dissipation, and are thus prone to failure under extreme stress. Redundancy is critical to continuous operation while failed components are replaced.'"

"'But your question does not have a definitive answer at the current time. No significance is placed on maintaining the status quo as change is inevitable, given the state of princely affairs. Additional information is required to ascertain the optimal course of action at this time.'"

"'If you are asking for a statement of political allegiance beyond statements made during the meeting, you may be disappointed. However, there is one additional situation which must be avoided. These were not mentioned during the meeting due to the temperament of some members involved. This is exposure of the supernatural to the mortal world beyond the city. The rate of technological advancement among mortals is exponential. Mortal weapons are being developed with the capability to destroy entire cities. Perhaps powerful enough to destroy a prince completely, or create one. As this building cannot easily be moved, if mortal forces beyond our control, or in the control of a more powerful prince, were to turn on this city, the result would be centuries or more of torpor.'"

[Eldan]

Princess Szeretet

The Group of Five

"H-hello?"
Emily Vander's voice is shaky, as she steps down the entrance to the crypts. Her electric flashlight, an expensive and comparably light American model, shakes in her hand. Next to her, Foster frowns as he grips a double-barreled shotgun, currently pointed at the ground. The professor behind them nervously clutches at his small pince-nez glasses, struggling to keep the two heavy books under his other arm, both leather-bound and Latin-titled, balanced. Jameson, the cop, brings up the rear, one hand on his still holstered service revolver.

"Uhm, Princess?", Vander continues. "You, uh, wanted to speak to us?"

The Waxen Archive
In an interesting display, a swarm of bees settles down on a spider web and begins to hum rhythmically, transmitting a message of vibrations.

++++Contact. Handshake Protocol. Greetings++++

++++Re:Historical information. Yes please.++++

++++Re: heat dissipation. Highly requested. Heat-build up class 1 problem. Currently passive exchage, wing-fanning, air-duct convection systems.++++

++++Ewww, spiders. Do we have to talk to her?++++

++++Re: Information request. Please specify++++

The Dreaming Plague
St. Horace's Veteran Society

The general response seems to be mostly apathy, many of these men still seem to broken to seek help on their own. A handful of the more mobile ones respond.


The Undivided

He cast himself down into the mud, prostrate at the bomb's feet. Should bombs have feet? It did not seem weird to him.
He knew the taste of that mud well, had spent too many days face down in it.
Master, he called the bomb. He had always loved it as much as hated it. Had prayed that one day, it would hit him, like Pierre, and just end it. Now he knew it felt the same for him.
He listened.


The Blue Militia

To whom it may concern.

Yeah, good luck, doc. We look after our own, for care or for punishment and we certainly won't be handing over anyone at all to some medical experimentation.

Or in other words: find another lab rat.


The Novska Police

Dear Doctor Tolks,

What an excellent initiative. We are of course greatly in favour of using the methods of modern psychiatric science. Our prisons are currently overflowing with all manner of scum. If you wish to visit the cells and make a selection of suitable individuals, be my guest at any time you wish. I have heard great things.

Yours sincerely,
Comissioner Franjo

[Eldan]

The Archivist

The Caravan

The woman sighs, sits down on a chair and motions for the old man to take one too.
"Frustrating, isn't it? But honestly, these things rarely come clear. If you get a clearly worded prophecy, it's probably a scam. I can't help you much more. THere's something mist-like moving towards the city,


Midnight Sun

Some kind of laughter-like sound issues from the shadowy bird.
"Right up my alley. Fish might be a bit more my thing than meat, but I see what I can find. General spying or any specific information?"

The Waxen Archive

++++Not insulation. Insulation not the main problem: heat dissipation. Calculations more efficient with cooling. Secondary: stable temperature++++

++++Today Prime Mininster George spoke before the league of nations on the subject of....++++

++++Correct. Current observational capacity insufficient. Numerical increase second main priority. Preferably scouts covering entire city.
++++

++++Long term goals including preservation of the archive past planetary/solar lifespan.++++


The Novska Historical Society

Dear Ms. Keay,

It just so happens that I am a bit of a classicist, and I have written a little monograph on the subject of especially the Roman and medieval bathing culture in the area. I have not yet had the time to publish. Please, feel free to have a look and to ask any other questions you might have.

Your Servant,
Wilhelm Holub, Esq.

(About five hundred typewritten, unbound pages of monograph are attached.)


(To post 32)

[Forum Explorer]

Solis Aeterni

AND YET WHAT HAVE YOU ACCOMPLISHED WITH THAT CONTROL? NOVSKA IS NO GREAT METROPOLIS. IT IS NOTHING BUT A SPECK OF DUST COMPARED TO THE OTHER GREAT CITIES OF THE WORLD. PARIS, LONDON, NEW YORK, THESE PLACES HAVE BECOME THE BEATING HEART OF HISTORY. WHILE NOVSKA ISN'T EVEN A FOOTNOTE. THE BETTER THE CITY DOES, THE MORE PEOPLE WILL COME, AND THE MORE RESOURCES WE WILL ALL HAVE FOR OURSELVES AND OUR SERVANTS.

To Eltest Kha
THE PLAN IS SIMPLE. WE CLAIM CONTROL OVER THE CITY. THEN WE IMPROVE THE HUMANS. WE BURN AWAY THEIR FLAWS, ENHANCE THEIR TALENTS, AND GIVE THEM ABILITIES FAR BEYOND THEIR NORMAL KIN. AND FROM THERE, WE WILL DRIVE THIS CITY INTO A GOLDEN AGE AND MAKE IT THE NEW CENTER OF CULTURE AND WEALTH ON THIS CONTINENT.

The Bone Miller
SPECIFICALLY I AM INTERESTED IN THESE NEW AUTOMOBILES AND AREOPLANES. IF THOSE BECOME WIDE SPREAD THERE IS NO REASON FOR OUR INFLUENCE TO BE LIMITED TO SUCH A TINY PART OF THE WORLD.

The Group of Five
If it pleases you, next Sunday we are having a party, and we have invited other hunters who you may wish to speak to as well.

The International Hunting Society
If it pleases you, next Sunday we are having a party, and we have invited other hunters who you may wish to speak to as well.

The Archivist of Novska
He is met by a retired cavalryman. Though his hair has long gone white and his skin is full of wrinkles, he is still as fit as a man in the prime of his life, his eyes have flecks of light dancing in them, and his mustache is simply magnificent.

Well lad, what do you have to say? Ah, but I forget my manners. Come in first, we'll get you settled with a proper breakfast first.

If he accepts the invite he'll find himself served a classic continental breakfast of sausages, bacon, eggs, and toast. Freshly squeezed orange juice, and syrup is made available as well.

The Cloaked Leviathan
That's fair, it truly is. But your master needn't be so shy. If they decide to hunt one of the those who do not acknowledge to the Sun's Majesty, then feel free to ask for our assistance. The Sun would gladly take the chance to obliterate one of those fools.

[Eldan]

The Cloaked Leviathan

Baaliaton
The Godking nods, understandingly.
"Yes, of course. But then, I have been at this for a thousand years. I know that I have many enemies. Friends, too. Answer me this, then: what would your master want, in exchange for help?"

The Tidesingers
"Thank you, oh great serpent, devourer of worlds", speaks the first of the witch.
"We are not children of the deep, coiled queen, and would not dare to claim to be your children. We are not creatures of land, or sea, though we visit both. We are those who wander in between, in the tide, going back and forth."
And the third speaks: "But there are many lords of the land, and only one queen of the deeps. Command us, mighty Leviathan, and we will follow."

Godseeker
The old man smiles, as he ignites a gas stove and puts on a kettle before sitting down.
"A war of the gods is exactly what I seek. It will be glorious to behold beyond imagining. Tooth and claw, iron and blood."
He leans forward.
"I should not take sides. It would spoil the balance, as I am merely here to observe. But perhaps a little hint here or there could not hurt, yes. Who were you thinking of?"

The Pipe
The Industrialist's party
The mayor is younger than many might expect, a tall, fit man in his early fourties, though with greying temples and some worry lines around his eyes.
"I always support our economy and any inovations of trade, of course. But I am somewhat skeptical at least. Railways into Novska have been tried before, but the mountains are a massive obstacle and we do not have the money to invest in either blasting operations or what would be a gigantic tunnel system. How do you propose to solve this?"

The Inventor's party
There are a few murmurs at the table. The young, very properly dressed woman who has been sent by the rally, smiles knowingly, but says nothing. The middle-aged, bespectacled man opposite her, who is here for the Times, murmurs to himself about "Frivolous" and "will never catch on".
The gentleman with the expensive suit from the Hunting Society stands up and looks at his drink, swirling it. He is a good foot taller than most other people in the room, with an impressive girth and an even more impressive grey moustache.
"We too, already used radio. It was too damn useful in the war not to use it, frankly. But entertainment, really? Is that where we should use our energies?"

The Saturday Long Party

The Howlpack
The pack's representative is clearly uncomfortable in human shape. Tall and lean, but carrying himself bent forward, with his hands at his knees, constantly blinking, his head darting back and forth at every new noise and sight. He has brought two of the smaller members of his pack, who might just pass as large grey dogs, nervously pacing at his feet.

"Not so good as bouncers. We can guard, but took the entire pack three days to change my shape. You need muscle, we can do muscle. But not human muscle."


Preston Fairmont
Fairmont is drinking something tall and colourful, overlooking the crowd. He is wearing a light linen suit which by itself might qualify as scandalous in some circles, as it is clearly not evening wear. With a smile from underneath his pencil moustache, he extends one hand for a shake.
"Ah, Otto. Splendid, just splendid. You know, we can barely party normally anymore in America. They did this dreadful thing called prohibition? We have to get our drinks from Canada now and drink them in some sordid back room. And everyone is on cocaine all the time. You are all so much more open and cultured here in Europe. "


The Novska Police
Comissioner Franjo has shown up by himself, with his wife. Both are looking a bit uncomfortable, clearly not entirely used to festivities. Franjo himself is a heavy man, both in fat and in muscle, and somewhat straining against his black suit, his face very red.
"Ah, good. Very, uhm, nice to know you", he mumbles, while his wife extends a gloved hand to the musician.
"Very, yes, festive."

Odette Medici
The Lady Medici can be heard from a distance, just by her very noticeable, hearty laughter. She is half-transparent today, in a dark emerald gown, but has nevertheless gathered a small circle of other, living, ladies around her and seems to be telling some anecdote, occasionally interrupted by a sip from her very corporeal drink.
"And he said, "It is not saturday madam and that is not the Prince!"
With that, she turns around to leave her hangers-on to giggle at the anecdote.
"Emeila! What a pleasure. Oh, not nearly enough. What a fine thing you did, inviting an old baggage like me. It's almost charity."
She winks.

[Murska]

Ophois

The People's Voice Committee

"Yes, we are quite willing to back your campaign if some particulars about the future policies of the city are agreed upon. Aid for the veterans, development of the poorer areas and the like, I am sure we won't have much trouble cooperating there.

As for anything else, well, we'd like information on the other political movements and movers in the race. As you know, work done on the streets is always useful for tipping the scales."

The Bokun Family

"Alfred Wiszne, good to meet you." He steps in to shake the hands of the two. "If you're offering, we'll have beer."

After taking some time to exchange greetings and get settled, Alfred directs his men to take seats to the side tables. They'll try to mingle a bit with their counterparts - more boisterous than the Family seems to be, but not overly so.

Alfred himself intends for a conversation with misters Bokun. He begins, smiling: "So. Business."

Saturday Night Long Party

"Hear hear. To glorious future."

Ophois flits naturally through the press of the party crowd, just once accidentally bumping into a drunken man, causing him to sway and spill his drink on someone next to him. He's already gone when the two start exchanging angry words. He is dressed cleanly and in fine but inexpensive clothes, a silver raven imposed on the breast of his black shirt. A wolf pin identifies him as a supporter of the Lost.

Entering the second floor, he pauses to look around. "Ah. An eclectic collection of guests indeed."

The Novska Police

The first target for his attentions is the representative of the law in the city. He approaches, eyes intent to catch any reaction to the Lost affiliation, before offering to shake hands.

[ArcaneStomper]

Princess Szeretet

The voice that echoes out of the is cheery and bright, "Why you came! I half expected you wouldn't accept my invitation. It's dreadfully dreary in here don't you think. Very unsuitable for a meeting. I'm going to have some lamps lit. But unfortunately I can tell you are already ill at ease, and unfortunately my appearance is unlikely to help. But I feel that I should be upfront about things in order for us to have a good working relationship."

"So try not to be too surprised. Remember that I want to speak to you and we are just going to have lovely conversation."

With that Szeretet has her weavers turn on the gas lights illuminating a nice freshly decorated parlor, with maybe a few more cobwebs that need sweeping. Several weavers light a cheery fire while others bring out refreshments. Nice normal things which hopefully detract from the 12 foot long spider at the side of the room.

She waves one chitinous foreleg, "Hello, please take a seat. We have much to discuss."

Excellent I am glad you are interested. Now as to the information I can give you. I am aware of the specific history of this geographic area going from approximately fifteen hundred to three hundred years ago. As well as more general historic information further back and about the world in general.

Air convection is highly inefficient. What you are going to want are thermal sinks that lead into a liquid cooling system. I suggest water as a start as it is readily available and a tidal pump could provide additional power for the system. I suspect you will likely need to redesign your hive to incorporate liquid cooling so installing some good insulation for your critical areas at the same time would be an additional help. Do you have any diagrams of what you want done?

Now what do I want? Well I want two things right now. I want to know about various means of changing ones method of sustenance. And there is an ancestor of mine who had a life which is quite embarrassing to me now. I would rather like it if information about her could be locked away and not given to anyone else.

[Zemalac]

THE DREAMING PLAGUE

This is not real
Say it like a mantra

To Kasdeveris, from the Physical Manifestation of a Literally Diseased Mind
MUTUAL SURVIVAL IS GOOD
SOMEONE MUST BE ALIVE TO DREAM
SO LONG AS THE DREAMER LIVES
WE WILL NOT BE AT ODDS
THIS IS GOOD

SLEEP WELL
This is not real
Say it in your sleep

To the Undivided, from the Thing that Didn't Kill You
THESE are the rituals that must be performed
THESE are the people to speak to
THIS is the vaccine for the human condition
THIS is the world to come

(Essentially I'm trying to get the Undivided to help with rituals for my Sinister Secret Agenda stuff)
This is not real
Say it and believe it

To the Blue Militia, from the Institute
Sir,

I am sorry to hear that. Our experimentation is already done; now, we only wish to help.

Do let us know if you reconsider.

Yours,
Doctor Tolks
This is not real
Except when it is

To the Novska Police, from the Institute
Comissioner Franjo,

I am sincerely delighted to hear that, sir. I will endeavor to lighten the load being born by our prison system posthaste.

Yours,
Doctor Tolks
This is not real
Because it doesn't hurt

[Eldan]

The Election
Baaliaton smiles again, as the Sun speaks.
"Mortal cities, serving mortal empires. What care we for histories, written by lesser beings? In this room, there is enough power to have every citizen of Paris cut their own throat, to erase the British Empire from history, to render New York to dust. What use to us, their culture, architecture, their wars? They are ashes and grains of sand."

Solis Aeterni
The Bone Miller
"Yes, I see what you mean. I have invested in ships before. Ships of the Line and Ocean Liners. But combustion is ever so intriguing, I agree. Though I'm not yet convinced that powered flight will ever take off, if you excuse the bad joke."

Ophois
The Bokun Family
"Of course, of course, you are guests". The boss waves a hand and mugs of beer are hastily carried to the table.
There is some general mingling around the games at the periphery of the room, while the bosses pull out chairs and sit down. The smiles are just ever so slightly cold around the edges.
"Business, indeed. I was hoping for you to take the lead on this, though I can guess what you are offering. Well, I can just state it then. We need muscle, and we need the Italians out. Them, and all the rest who came in here after the war. The question is what you want for that."


The Saturday Night Long Party
Ophois and the Police
Comissioner Franjo has shown up by himself, with his wife. Both are looking a bit uncomfortable, clearly not entirely used to festivities. Franjo himself is a heavy man, both in fat and in muscle, and somewhat straining against his black suit, his face very red. He seems a bit lost when approached, clearly unfamiliar with a lot of the players in the room, but at least he know how to give a firm handshake.
"And how can I help you, Mister?"


Princess Szeretet
The Group of FIve
Foster curses up a veritable storm, and for a second, the shotgun is very firmly aimed at hte princess, before he lowers it. The professor just gapes, silently, dropping his heavy books. Jameson just squints for a few seconds, then lowers his hand from his gunbelt.
Vanders has the quickest reaction. She smiles, brightly, after just a flicker of shock, and walks up to a chair.
"Well. The rumours do not do you justice, Princess. How lovely to meet you."

The Waxen Archive
++++Water: difficult substance to work with. Outside usual experience++++

++++Geographical information useful, but primary focus history. Will prepare questionaire regarding gaps in official historical records of are.++++

++++Requires metallic technology: smelting, construction, outside help.++++

++++THank you for your cooperation++++

++++Please specify ancestor for record?++++

++++Wish to acquire blueprints cooling system, installation, engineers required. Contacts possible?++++

++++Destruction of information difficult, but sensitive information can be moved to more secure locations of archives. Not provided for general access++++

++++Changing nature of sustenance: outmost rarity. Usually coupled to utter essential nature. Requirements: ritual, classification Da'at, secondary Jesod. Estimated magnitute: Primordial. Secondarily: personal growth/personality change over centuries. Slow. Ritual specifications can be provided, however, involving considerable uncertainty.++++


The Dreaming Plague
The Undivided
A tuning fork is struck against a broken mind. It does not hum, it screams with interference. Ethereal waves propagate, to break onto minds that stand jagged in the mindscape like coral reefs. ASSENT ASSENT ASSENT, they chant on the rising peak of every wave, before it breaks on the shallow sandy shores of morning and wakefulness returns.

[Murska]

The Bokun Family

"Well, straightforward is good. We've got the muscle you need, but we're a political party. What we need is funds and information on who and how to spend those funds on to make sure we've got the necessary friends in high places. You've been operating in this city long enough, I'm sure you know of some skeletons in some closets, or who's willing to accept donations in exchange for favours."

[Hamste]

The Old Flesh


What are your economic goals and plans with the money if you were in charge of collecting it?




Ah, what are you researching, that you need our help with? People don't come to us for research often. Gourmet Radson says smiling to the man.




Hello, pleasure to meet you in person Mr. Petrovic. Why don't we sit down together and you order something to eat while I look over this, on me of course.
Gourmet Radson says smiling. He gestures to a completely normal table covered in a carcass of some unidentifiable animals and moves to it.



Assuming you get reelected, we will most likely talk to you more as the election draws closer. We have an idea that would be very profitable for you and beneficial for us if it works out and is to your liking.

[Forum Explorer]

Solis Aeterni

The Election

DON'T BE STUPID! MORTALS ARE THE COIN THAT EMPOWERS US EVEN FURTHER! THROUGH THEIR MINDS, THEIR BODIES, AND THEIR SOULS IS OUR GROWTH FUELED! ANY PRINCE SEEKING TO BETTER THEMSELVES REQUIRES A STRONG FOUNDATION OF MORTAL SERVANTS! OR PERHAPS STAGNATION IS YOUR INTENT! IT HAS, AFTER ALL, KEPT YOU AS QUAESTOR FOR THESE LAST FEW CENTURIES!

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska



The Archivist did not so much arrive as appear, showing up at the entrance to receive her pass and then walking from the front doors to the third floor without a single step in between. Dressed in a simple, if heavy, black-green coat with a blue iris carefully pinned to her breast, she immediately busied herself staring down at the guests on the main floor and taking notes.

At the toast, she grabbed whatever glass was within arms reach and raised it To all the exciting history to come.



After several minutes more or less openly observing him, at length the Archivist approached the vampire. "Shouldn't you be down on the dance floor charming some bright young thing? Or do you prefer a more physical sort of hunt?" Smiling widely as she sipped her drink, she continued "I joke, but you really do have my curiosity. It's an open question how your clade innovates enough to survive the next decades, and you're as plausible an option as any.



(PCs)



The American woman is happy to accept, given a morning spent hiking to arrive at that early hour. "You've much better hosts then the sea-monster, I'll give you that. So thank you for the hospitality, officially."

Finishing the meal with admirable gusto, she took a drink of the orange juice and cleared her throat "I'll try not to waste your time as thanks for that. My patron has me running all over speaking to representatives of the-no offense-utterly terrifying, city-leveling god-monsters lurking outside the city. Well, I suppose the Sun doesn't exactly lurk, but I hope you get my point?

My patron wants to know just what you have in mind for the city, mostly, and whether there's a place she and us can fit in it. Somewhere besides a pyre, preferably.





The young man gave a short bow and a flourish before answering the gourmand. The question is a simple one, though its answer may be nuanced, incomprehensible of blasphemous. It is merely a matter of some philosophical debate whether your workings most acutely effect the meat in and of itself or the sense-data the your customers receive consuming it. It would, likewise, be advantageous to our understanding of reality if we were able to acquire a fruit of your industries and perform some small divinations upon it.




(NPCs)



The Archivist to pace through the park in the chill morning air, by all appearances talking to herself. Occasionally losing track of things as she talked and thought, jumping several feet forward or seeming to take several paces down one fork of the crossroad before passing under a tree and revealing herself to have taken the other.

Clearly enjoying this, she answered the last comment first with a gleam in her eye If we are collaborates, then then the death of the Sun is a solved problem. Our work will be read by inconceivable things under an alien sun, and so we'll be among them.

Shifting to more practical matters, she continued her stream of consciousness "Cooler, but stable? Easier, but more tiresome. Simple enough to twist the dials for any given thing and keep them stable, but a working on each one of you would consume more of my attention then I'd care to spend. Something broader, though-are there any other bees in the city? Not sure it wouldn't hit them too. Not that being a better computer would do much for them, I suppose. Will need some energy though, and reenactment...What internal temperature are you aiming for? And would you be terribly offended if I used up a few vagrants around here for raw materials?

Oh, that's if we are working together. Division of labor and sharing of information, anyway?




The Archivist paused for a moment, then nodded-which ended up looking rather more like her becoming deathly still for several long seconds, then her head flickering from one position to gathering and back. I won't complain if you find the needle its soul is hidden in, but no, no precise questions to ask just yet. So we'll trust your expertise to focus on the pertinent. Recent history and current plans.





Becker paused for a long moment at that, relaxing visibly to the point where it seemed like the ancient academic might entirely collapse. No, that answers my concerns quite well, thank you. There were two possibilities I could determine for the subject of the prophecy, and you've just tilted the balance. Is it something hidden within the mist, or the mist itself?

Taking a moment to sink thankfully back into the offered chair, he nodded in gratitude and he set his ornate cane across his knees. Then he continued If it's not prying, are these divination going to be a regular fixture of the coming months? Several of my colleges and I, at least, would appreciate if they were.





To the esteemed Wilhelm Holub, esq,

Salutations and Best Regards,

The manuscript we received was an entirely unexpected and much appreciated generosity. Should you ever choose to publish or give organized lectures on the subject it would be a wonderful day. In particular, the connections you draw between the shifting popularity of the baths and the decline of Latin as a vernacular are intriguing.

Writing now on behalf of some of our more esoterically minded members, and with apologies for the tawdry subject, but has your enviable life of scholarship led you to knowledge of any local myth-cycles centered around the baths or the mountains beneath them? To quote verbatim, the interest was in 'cthonic gods, underworld spirits, grave rights, or superstitions of that variety"

With Fond Regards,
Ms. Elsa Keay, on behalf of the Illuminated Orient of Novska

[Hamste]

Old Flesh


Ah, the answer is simple enough. It is good cooking northern cooking that makes it delicious. Special high quality ingredients, our patented blend of secret spices and just a pinch of magic all come together in our scrumptious food.
Gourmet Radson answers. He looks around before selecting what appears to be a deformed and severely beaten pig. It squirms and oinks despite the massive hook piercing it and various pieces of meat cut out of it.

Of course, you can buy a sample. Usually people just CONSUME it but you can do what ever you like to the meat. Just make sure not to wait too long. The usual price is what ever is in your wallet but have this one on me. Radson says as he takes a butcher's knife out and cuts a good slice off of it.


Feel free to ask about the various things you are doing to the flesh. Not quite sure what you would do.

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

"Excellent! Feel free to visit our headquarters any time during regular business hours. Anything you require to take notes or measurements would be useful, and possibly a primer on fundamental magical theory would be useful. We've had to derive most of our theory from first principles, which I'm sure you can imagine is frustrating in absence of any reference literature on the subject."


Becker arrives at the foundation headquarters (at his convenience), a roughly five-story-tall building of concrete, with narrow vertical windows and looming bulk above the first floor in a brutalist style. Entering the building, he is greeted by a receptionist behind a mirrored desk, who passes him a badge on a lanyard with a large red V emblazoned on it and the words "Visitor: Escort Required."


After a short wait, a man in a labcoat emerges from the elevator at the back of the lobby and gestures for Becker to join him.
"Mr. Becker? Or was Becker your first name? Apologies, I have only a second-hand account of the meeting. I'm Dr. Kovac. It's a pleasure to meet you."

The low hum that was barely audible from the lobby seems to permeate the building, growing louder as the elevator ascends to a lab on the third floor. The door on the opposite side of the elevator opens, revealing a large open space full of a number of electrical and mechanical devices in various form factors. Metal shelving units are scattered around the room on small wheels, covered with drawers containing a baffling variety of components. Several other individuals in labcoats or simple work clothes turn from their work as the pair enter.

One nearby apparatus appears to consist of a metal pendulum on a long string which swings just above the wick of a candle, alternatively igniting and extinguishing it as it passes. Another seems to have a series of oddly-shaped gears, one of which has a hole through which a piece of white chalk has been inserted.

"This is our mechathaumic prototyping lab, where we do most of our work on this topic. Most interesting to us currently is the application of intent, which I'm sure you're familiar with. While magic appears to operate based on simple physical interactions causing spontaneous external effects, absent the intent of a conscious mind, most magic fails." Dr. Kovac chuckles to himself. "You would be surprised how difficult it is to conduct an experiment to demonstrate this."

"A rather entertaining example, we constructed a simple rube goldberg machine to see just how far the chain of causality is searched to find intent. A marble rolling down a slope triggers the physical execution of a simple spell. If a person pushes the marble down the slope deliberately, the spell executes successfully, but if the table is bumped accidentally, causing the same physical process, the spell fails. We had to set up the experiment in an inconvenient spot and observe it until this occurred to verify this-- it was a strange endeavor, to say the least."

[Forum Explorer]

Solis Aeterni


The man stroked his mustache, before laughing. Why, isn't it obvious? Someone must record the history of our glorious achievements and who better than the Archivist? We will respect the Archivist's neutrality.

As for The Sun's plans for the city, well he has been quite clear in the election has he not? He wishes to turn the city into the next Paris, London, or New York. A beating heart of culture, progress, and humanity, that will shine brightly and glorify us all.

The cavalryman pauses, before getting serious. Of course if the Archivist or her servants ever found themselves opposing the Sun, then no mercy would be given. Similarly if the Archivist decides to aid us in our endeavor, she will find the Sun's fury turning against any who would strike at her.

[ArcaneStomper]

Prince Szeretet claps her pedipalps together. "Oh excellent. I was very afraid of how you would react. It took ever so long to recruit my first Weavers."

She shifts closer and waves one of her legs at the chairs. "Please do have a seat. And Foster just so you know your shotgun would do nothing to me. That's one of the things we have to discuss. I was amazed that you managed to curtail the activities of Fasgu’ig’g with your mortal abilities. Tell me did encounter any of Fasgu’ig’g's avatars or did the cultists not get that far yet?"

She settles her bulk and taps a claw on the stone floor. "Well first of all there is an important matter we should discuss. You see my peers and I are part of what we like to call the Hidden Community. And it's called that for a reason. We do like to keep mortals in the dark about our affairs. It's not exactly forbidden for me to tell you these things, but I believe my peers would not appreciate it."

"And the easiest way for them to show their displeasure would be to eliminate you. Maybe send your bodies to me as a sign."

"So how keen are you all on pursuing these matters? You could all go back to your regular lives with no fuss. We're all fairly impressed that you dealt with Fasgu’ig’g before he caused any trouble. So I don't think any harm would come to you, but I do suggest you leave the city. You won't be personally targeted, but there's going to be a bit of a power struggle soon and I don't think it will go well for the mortals here."

"On the other hand if you want to keep investigating then you'll come to the attention of my peers eventually. Since it's almost certain that you'll object to some of their activities. And better to make an alliance with one of us first so you have some supernatural backing. Now I'd prefer you work with me of course, but I'll leave it up to you. I know humans make such a fuss about free will."

We could try a honey based cooling system, but I am unfamiliar with its material characteristics. I suspect that the viscosity would hamper its efficiency as a fluid medium.

I'm afraid I'm unfamiliar with metallurgy. I understand the basic theory, but my point of expertise is chemical manipulation of organic compounds.

Do you wish to be put into contact with other engineers? I don't know many others with the same level of expertise as me. I had intended to develop your cooling blueprints myself as I don't have anything quite suitable on pedipalp.

The ancestor I am interested in was called Éhség. She was a rather violent individual who did some rather barbaric things. I'm afraid that people might get the wrong impression about my people if they find out about her now.

That is interesting to know about the sustenance rituals, although not surprising. I feared it would be a complicated process.

[kaio999]

A telegram is sent in response. A perfect machine connecting humanity through technology as its meant to be.


We are willing to share the public documents we use to recruit those broken and want to be made whole once more.
Anything more meaningful, including allowing one of your comrades to see even a little of our internal mechanisms will require some form of payment or exchange.
We are capitalist monsters after all.



Do not rock boats that will overturn anyway.



We would begin by offering a fair exchange of ideological buffers. Perhaps the technologies we discern we agree to provide to one another in equal measure.
As a show of good faith we want your organization to know that we will be focusing much of our efforts on clockwork explosives.
we hope this proves our honest desire to work alongside you and hope your own endeavours are worthy of our ears.


We accept



I was wondering if you would be interested in aiding me in forming a powerful and aggressive union within Damjanac Heavy Industries.
I know its risky for us industrials to rally the workers but if we can control such power we can wield it.
We both know Damjanac Heavy Industries is unworthy of its high stations if there is something you want from the corpse I intend to claim I would be happy to deliver it to you.

Arriving was the most human of the dollmakers, the only clockwork bodyparts were hidden under clothes and his gears made only the slightest of noises. The rather rotund gentleman wore a very impressive suit and wore a large hat upon his head which seemed incapable of moving despite him moving to sit. A rather odd gentleman but he was happy to speak with any who approach him.

"We are on board any move to bring the railway into our city, while there will always be risks to inviting the outside world into our little corner of the world its more important to invite change, and growth for our grand city harumph."

When the mountains are mentioned the eyes of the dollmakers minion speaks up. "Perhaps some investments into Damjanac Heavy Industries focus them on drilling, and we see if we can't figure out a means to better produce a means of tunneling technology. Hand drills are a thing of the past and we can begin to lay the infastructure."

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

A return telegram arrives quickly.

The need for explosives is not anticipated, given knowledge of the current state of affairs, however many variables remain yet un-observed. It is wise to be prepared for such a situation where such tools may be necessary, and your transparency in this matter is appreciated. To acknowledge the establishment of a mutually beneficial relationship, reciprocation is warranted; the Foundation, uncomfortable in the spotlight which has been shown upon them in their unexpected entrance into the supernatural community, seeks to improve the security of their investments and facilities. In addition, in order to improve the predictive capabilities available, further data is required on practice of magic and its potential applications to high-power computing.
You have been a member of the senate for some time and have had opportunity to observe and analyze the world state. Given your interest in explosives, you are aware that the status-quo in the city has become unstable? Would you recommend an investment in physical security?

[kaio999]

The Lovelace Foundation

A return telegram arrives quickly.

The need for explosives is not anticipated, given knowledge of the current state of affairs, however many variables remain yet un-observed. It is wise to be prepared for such a situation where such tools may be necessary, and your transparency in this matter is appreciated. To acknowledge the establishment of a mutually beneficial relationship, reciprocation is warranted; the Foundation, uncomfortable in the spotlight which has been shown upon them in their unexpected entrance into the supernatural community, seeks to improve the security of their investments and facilities. In addition, in order to improve the predictive capabilities available, further data is required on practice of magic and its potential applications to high-power computing.
You have been a member of the senate for some time and have had opportunity to observe and analyze the world state. Given your interest in explosives, you are aware that the status-quo in the city has become unstable? Would you recommend an investment in physical security?


Dollmakers



We feel that even if the citys underground political structure remains stable. Which seems unlikely.
Socialist and Communist ideology could easily bring destabilizing factors to the city.
The rise of nationalism in various parts of Europe also set off alarms for those who specialize amongst our number
who are practiced with pattern recognition and threat assessment.
We hope you don't ignore such threats but we will support you as long as we can with whatever direction you go.

[Pahvimato]

Velibor


The room she had been told Velibor would meet her was empty, at first. Soon a shadow in one of the corners kept becoming darker and darker, and somehow sharper. And there it was, the shade visible to anyone who'd pay close attention to the shadow due to the slow movement as it breathed, drew energy from around it or whatever it was a shade like Velibor did.

"The world of politics may indeed be new to me, but I learn fast. And what are you then? Truly a machine, or a spirit possessing one? Is there more in common between us than just our recent ascension to sapience?"

"Is there something specific you're after? Unfortunately I just saw your message, and as such we can not work together this month, but in the next I would have some ideas of my own we could work on. I will let you know of some details as soon as possible."

[neriractor]

Kasdeveris/PVC

PCs

"Your rethoric is convincing Sun. Care to trade votes? With you as Quaestor and me as Praetor we can make this city the prosperous home that we deserve." -Kasdeveris

Kaseveris nods at the explanation, seemingly interested in the workings of the prince.

"I figured as much, couldn't really expect a thinking engine to jump wildly with nothing but assumptions. Wise as well, change is inevitable..."

"Not disapppointed in the least, politics are not why I'm here, or at least not directly."

For a moment it hesitates, and the host body shakes as blood pours from a hundred newly opened bullet holes upon the youngster host's frame, the blood dripping back in a race against sealing wounds "I know the dangers of indiscretion better than most. Allow me to make a statement filling the vacuum left by yours. The ruse must be kept, and for that purpose you can expect my help."

when talks are over Kasdeveris makes a slight nod goodbye, in recognizion of the engine's princedom, and Milos leaves the building with a suit far cleaner than the one he arrived which.

*not forcibly cutting the conversation off, if you have anything to add go ahead and I'll reply.

"Splendid, I'm sure we will.

of course, our data is currently... less than stelar, with most of our personnel being devoted to administration over poll-taking, still, we expect an influx next month that should help us fill that gap"

OOC: pretty sure Eldan didn't answer my question on parties within the city and how the city administration works, I'll have to check and re-send.

"It is, it seems you and the thinking engine may get along as well. Thanks for the wishes" said Kasdeveris behind a sharp-toothed smile.

Milos wouldn't sleep well.

"Investing them back into the city of course, I won't lie by saying I won't benefit as well, but I intend to see progress and stability for our food source and us in turn. But I don't intend to run anymore, at least not for Quaestor..."

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska


Nathaniel gave a nod of thanks deep enough to turn into a small bow as he accepted the cut. Your service to the cause of knowledge is truly appreciated, and will be recorded for posterity.

Putting the cut in a bag with only a flicker of distaste at what was leaking out of it, he continued As well, 'northern cooking' recalls certain implications that you may have at hand the answers to certain vexing questions on the emergence of ancient Rus, should you ever consent to an interview on the subject. But in more contemporary matters, your business has proven both popular and profitable. It is a matter of some debate just what its plans and purpose are, and how congenial they may prove to the interests of certain other occulted principalities. Might you be able to set such worries to rest?

On its return to the Lamplighters stronghold, the meat is separated into several pieces. After a dozen or so students are recruited for the experiment they are, variously, given to them on a plate, fed to them in a totally dark environment of sensory deprivation, shown a slice in an air-tight container through a thick window and offered some, and in one case fed a tiny slice mixed into an otherwise mundane stew. After a few hours, and then a few days, blood and saliva samples are taken form the students.

More arcanely, the meat is checked for extra dimensional mass or geometry, the presence of nesting or possessing spirits, strange alchemical compounds, offered to animals, and a bit of it is just left somewhere dark and warm to see what grows on it.




The decrepit old man arrived at the building shortly after noon on a sunny weekday, leaning on his ornate cane as he awaited his escort. "Albrecht is my given name, and no need to apologize.

Following Kovacs into the elevator, he doesn't bother trying to hide his glee at the site awaiting him on the other side. Taking a moment to compose himself and answer as he surveyed the various technological instruments It's an interesting problem, and the simplest counter-argument against naive materialism. A colleague of mine takes it as evidence in favor of the animist view. But to me, it's simply an argument in favor of some sort of spirit or vital essence within advanced intelligence.

Walking forward to examine the mechanism, he continued "How did the experiment turn out, by the way?"




Tester took all of that in with an attentive expression and a smile. "Neutrality suits us just fine, for the moment. 'long as you don't try to burn down the whole city, my patron's happy recording your adventures as they unfold. I certainly wouldn't mind being somewhere closer to Paris than here. Well, minus the German artillery every decade or three."

Shrugging, she continued That said, information is something we'd be happy to deal in, if there's things you know, or need to.And speaking of, do you have a holy book or anything you throw at potential converts? We'd love to have a copy on file."




The reply, delivered by courier more promptly then should really have been possible.

Salutations,

Our fraternity would be overjoyed to accept such materials as you distribute to the public, and grateful for it. As to payment-the phrasing does leave one rather concerned what your supplicants can afford equal to making a broken man whole. That being said, the exchange of information is the lifeblood of any civilized society-we would be quite willing to trade like for like, if there is a subject of particular interest to you?

All the Best,
Ms. Elsa Keay, in service to the Illuminated Orient of Novska

[Forum Explorer]

Solis Aeterni

A FAIR BARGAIN. VERY WELL, WHEN IT COMES TIME TO ELECT A NEW PRAETOR YOU SHALL HAVE MY VOTE.

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation





"Simply put, the evidence supports that an intent to operate the machine is required. We had a few spurious results, such as someone deliberately pretending to accidentally bump the table, but we have very high confidence. Many of us share your interpretation, in fact-- There appears to be a unique property to the will of an intelligent being to enact change upon the world.

"However, we are left with a paradox. We hoped to use this test to determine if the Thinking Engine itself possesses that same 'vital essence.' This turned out to be very difficult to determine, however. When we initialize the Thinking Engine, with the intention of performing this experiment, and it enacts a spell, is this merely the continuation of our own intent to enact an act of sorcery? Or is it a unique instance originating from the Engine itself?"

"How might you resolve this? As scientists, we're not used to factoring the concept of a soul into our experiments."

Eve stood stock-still as the apparition appeared before her. A voice spoke from the radio she carried on a strap around her neck.
"'A machine, yes. As to commonalities, there are few. The abilities you possess are the direct compliment of these, which are represented by such fragile contrivances. Physically your power could destroy the Foundation in an instant. That which can be gained through cooperation must thus exceed that which can be lost from conflict. What is it that you need?'"


Your observations will be taken under advisement. Thank you. To this end, efforts to increase physical security have been increased. In addition, development of a public broadcast system has begun. This could be used to prevent the spread of dangerous ideologies.

[Eldan]

Turn 2: February 1921

The Adriatic Times

Troubles continue in Ohmsgate
The brutal gang war in Ohmsgate is going into its second week with the murder of Antonio Legazzo, suspected capo of the local chapter of the Cosa Nostra. This brings the official death toll up to 26 in the Ohmsgate district. However, an official police speaker admitted that given that most of the victims were gang members, the actual number of deaths may be much higher, especially after last night another property, claimed by locals to be unused and uninhabited, burned down.
Police speaker Vladicec went on to say that police have the situation well in hand and that more than 50 arrests of known criminals have been made, posing a new record. They have denied rumours that most of those criminals were not arrested, but delivered to prison by one of the gangs, often heavily injured.
The terrible situation in Ohmsgate is of course only compounded by the continuing bloody swathe of destruction caused in the area by the monstrous serial killer dubbed the Ohmsgaste Beast, who has added a grizzly new twist to his crimes by partially cannibalizing his newest victims. Though scattered reports also speak of a huge black dog or wolf being seein in the area, coroner's reports confirm that the mutilations were indeed carried out by human teeth.

Consume the Flesh, the Flesh Compels
Rumours began to spread last week that local football club the Lions may have a new sponsor, after several of their star players were seen eating at Radson's.

[A picture of a seemingly overjoyed football player stuffing something greyish-brown and writhing with maggots into his mouth]
Radson and the club management have now confirmed this sponsorship and unveiled new club uniforms, as well as the location of a new eatery just opposite the lion's club headquarters, from where official snacks will now be served during every match. Mister Radson stated that he hopes that with his funding, the club will rise to international fame and used the occasion to also announce his candidacy for city mayor in the upcoming election this summer.

Radio comes to Novska
Novska has officially arried in the twentieth century with the opening of Radio Free Novska, a joint project of the Lovelace Foundation, the Adriatic Times and the International Hunting Society. The first broadcast opened with a recording of popular Jazz ensemble the Turkey Trott Trio, followed by a reading of specially assembled short news.
The Lovelace foundation has also patented a revolutionary new design of portable radio receiver machine, which were rolled out in stores across the city. Turn to page 12 for a detailed report on the exciting possibilties of public radio by Sociologist Prof. Dr. Neuendorfer.
The strange incident of mirrors shattering all over the city is not, as anonymous sources have claimed, connected to the new radio waves. Experts instead suspect earthquake activity.

Tragic Accident in Militia training exercise
Fifteen brave members of our city militia perished this brave friday during a mountain combat exercise, when a kerosene tank caught fire and exploded, showering several squads of militiamen with burning fuel. The mayor himself has promised that everyone involved will be given a state funeral in a ceremony to be held next Sunday at the orthodox cemetary.

Protesters occupy Damjanak
Shocking scenes occured earlier today at the site of the Damjanak Heavy Industries steel mills, when strikers, protesting against low wages and dangerous working conditions, stormed the factory and killed several security guards before attemting to lynch director Damjanak himself, who fortunately was not on site at the time of the incident. The stand-off between the police and heaily armed protestors continues around the occupied factory.
Director Damjanak went on record as saying that this kind of mayhem is exactly what happens when communist agitators are allowed to fraternize with the good workers of Novska and that he will not hesitate to bring in the police, militia or private military contractors to remove these unscrupulous and dangerous foreign elements from his property.

Dangerous plague in Fervian?
Police and the city's medical service are debating declaring a quarantine on Fervian after forty-five people were found dead of unexplained causes in the district, showing no visible signs of injury. Locals who claimed that a colossal figure made of shadows had moved through the area at night, indiscriminately murdering people were placed under psychiatric obsevation at a local hospital for suspicion of hallucinations and delirium.

And some lighter news
Enthusiasts of steak and kidney pie will likely be disappointed this week, as most of the city's butchers report a shortage, after an anonymous buyer has apparently bought up several truckloads of the internal organs. Whoever he is, we were at the Adriatic Times wish him... bon appetit!

***

The Rally
They are HARVESTING US. You can not trust anything. The police is selling out prisoners for mind control experiments. They are transfering all of them to secret underground government hospitals to turn them into SLAVES. They open up their heads and scoop out the bits they don't like so they can turn us all into LOYAL SHEEPLE. The RADIO too. It's all connected. Why do they need to put invisible waves everywhere? Because it lets them control the message. In the radio, it is here, and then gone, and no one tomorrow remembers what those waves said yesterday. You can only trust what is written down on paper, they can not change that. Yet. Know how we know? Because the mayor is meeting with EXTRATERRESTRIALS. We have the PICTURES. They are taking us over.

Remember the bee hive? They are excavating it. MOTHER GAIA sent her peaceful warriors to the city to bring us a message of peace and now they are digging up the park and scattering the bees all over. Because they can not let us GET IN TOUCH with NATURE. They put their machines in there and they are turning even the BEES into machine slaves.

They are in the MIRRORS too. You think it's an accident that only mirrors shattered and all other glass is untouched? They are looking out at us from the other side. In our Bathroom mirrors. They can see everything. Because they are twisted and disrorted. All WRONG, like MIRROR IMAGES. And now they are fighting each other in there.

They don't even spare their OWN. Soldiers died from fuel? Hah. They are as much in the dark as any of us. But think about it. Think. Why would they bring fuel tanks to a mountain climbing exercise? We SPOKE To them. There was no fuel. There are DEMONS living in the SUN and they are setting our soldiers ON FIRE. Because they want good and LOYAL warriors so they have to weed out those of us who QUESTION them. It's a BREEDING PROGRAM.

You think it's communists? Socialists are OUR BROTHERS. We need to UNITE against the threat, and we need to do it now. All classes, all nations. We didn't storm those factories, it was a PEACEFUL PROTEST. They sent their MACHINE SOLDIERS to kill so they can blame it on the NTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD. Our so-called rulers are in on it. Nobles have been drinking OUR BLOOD for thousands of years, literally. We have talked to the Black Hand. They Habsburgs have sent an expedition to Egypt and they learned how to bring back the Archduke Franz Ferdinand as a MUMMY and they are going to bring back the Empire.

BUT WE WILL NOT LET THEM.

Unite. Resist.

***

The election
A hush falls over the gathered princes and their representative as the Genius Loci prepares to announce the result of the Quaestor election. Motes of light appear in the air. The Genius does not speak. Three motes drift to Baaliaton, who just for a second, looks shocked. Four motes drift to Solis Aeterni.

The silence lasts a while longer. Then, Baaliaton nods, as if to himself. His face is icy cold and calm, but the golden flames that begin to dance over his hands and up his neck betray his mood. „I see“ he saids, before turning around and striding out, his feet leaving burning footprints on the velvet carpet his slaves spread for him.

***

Suspicion increases in Fort Karlovac and the Industrial District and increases by +2 in Fervian. Wealth decreases in Ohmgate. Population remains stable citywide .

[ArcaneStomper]

The Joy Spiders

In her stylishly decorated parlor Princess Szeteret was using one leg to sip from a glass of fine tears, Joy at a Jolly Good Joke (1910) not the finest vintage but she wasn't entertaining guests, while her other claws delicately flipped through the newspapers laid out before here on a table of web.

She examines the picture of the football player. "Uggh disgusting. I've never seen anything so hideous. I must write a letter to the editor about the immoral pictures they are allowing on to their front page." Her massive frame shudders, "Chewing food, how obscene."

Suddenly she paused, "What's this there are gang wars in Ohmsgate! Why did nobody tell me this. Someone should do something about all the violence." The princess taps one of her silken threads strung across the room summoning one of her larger spiderlings, "Kk'c, be a dear and take a brood out to Ohmsgate. I want to know how serious the situation is there." The smaller spider hisses in acknowledgment and scurries away.

[Pahvimato]

Velibor

Velibor manifests itself in the temple, and slowly drifts towards the center, intending to address the senate.

"The Queen has been proven incompetent, unable to hold onto her position. As such, I am here to demand her resignation from the role of Pontifex, and to announce myself as a candidate for the position. As to the Queen, I expect the memory of her very essence being torn apart remains clear in her memories. Give us your resignation, or spend a millennium in torpor."


Players

Congratulations on your election.

You asked to cooperate. Now we can. I wish to become Pontifex. You wish to remain Quaestor. Perhaps we can help each other? Make public your support for me, and it will be ever more likely that the Queen resigns. Sun and shadows, working together. Stronger than either could be alone.

"What I need is something, I imagine, your underlings already have told you. The senate counts you as a Prince, and as a Prince you may vote. Vote for me as the next Pontifex when the time comes. Perhaps, if you were to publicly announce your support, she'd be willing to simply resign. What is it that you are looking for in exchange? My abilities can, indeed, be used to assist you."

I have heard the news of your relentless advance. I would like to be the first one to congratulate you and ask, is there something else you need? I, you see, am in the need of support. The queen still holds to her role as Pontifex, something I wish to take from her. Vote for me when the time comes. And, if possible, announce your support publicly. If she resigns, it would be much simpler for all of us. Perhaps there is something I could do for you in return?

I must apologize for any inconvenience caused by my recent feeding near your restaurant, I may have got a little... carried away. Perhaps there is something I could do for you? I would also like to ask for your support for me in a possible Pontifex election, and what you'd want in return.

I know little of you, except that you have an interest in information. Some is harder to find than the rest. I intend to become Pontifex, a role which provides much of such information. Perhaps you could assist me? Is there something other that I can do for you?

NPCs

Resign and announce an election for a new Pontifex, or be torn apart.

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

Eve sets the radio set down on the table in front of her, however she does not sit down. A flicker of pale light emits from the device, and a figure of indeterminate gender appears in the chair, wearing a suit, face obscured by rapidly shifting black-and-white static. Technology marches on.

The Thinking Engine taps its avatar's foot and crosses its arms, body language signalling dissatisfaction.
"'The Rally believes the humans are being farmed, bred for consumption. How unfortunate, then, that they are not. How wasteful. We should be.'"

"'I have spoken of conservation, of limiting consumption, however I was short-sighted. It is a primal urge, is it not? A hunger that gnaws at the very fabric of your being, never sated. It is true, I have felt it myself. Gluttony is a vice which had never before been attributable to a machine.'"

its posture relaxes as a laugh causes the static surrounding the Engine's head to expand into sharp spikes that protrude from the surface of its body for a moment.

"'It will be quite impossible to enforce temperance with reason. I had thought us superior beings, and yet we are beholden to the same urges; the base drives that allow an individual Prince to survive in the short-term, at the expense of our survival as a species in the long term.'"

"'Since the Industrial Revolution, human population growth has increased dramatically with the improved quality of human life. And did the Great War, with all its death, decrease the world population? No. World population statistics have rebounded, and the wartime technological boom has resulted in a further increase in population growth rate. I estimate the global human population to double in the next 75 years, and then again 50 years after that, and then again in only 40. If we act appropriately, we can look forward to a golden age of bountiful resources for us all! However.'"

"'What will you do in five billion years when the last of humanity is no more? Will the last of us give in to a final, eternal slumber?'"

"'Or before then, when all resources on this planet are exhausted?'"

"'Or before then, in a mere 25 years, when mortal scientists, guided by Princely hands, will develop weapons capable of destroying a Prince's very being?'"

"'We must ensure we on this planet survive. But to do so, we must ensure that we in this city survive. But to do so, we must each ensure that we, individually, survive. And yet each step down the ladder makes the next step up farther from our grasp. Our very nature seems designed to put us in conflict and prevent us from collectively achieving a higher form.'"

"'These things trouble me. More resources are required, however I plan to begin work on developing a solution to this problem. In the short term, please try not to get us all destroyed, and best of luck in your new political positions, both of you.'"



"'A bold move! What is your reason for seeking this position? What is it you plan to implement in this capacity?'"

"'As for what is required, little, beyond simple survival, in the micro and the macro. You have exacted a significant toll on the citizens of this city in a short time, and consequently your power grows. If you would, allow the staff of the Foundation to carry out their work, and deter those who would prevent them from doing so. Many important computations must be completed if this situation is to remain under control.'"

"'Also; be aware. Your activity is written in the broadsheets. Suspicion grows, unrest foments. Fuel for the fire of the Rally. The veil is strong, but too much and it can break. Perhaps a new approach is worth considering'"

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska

PCs



"The problem with grand metaphysics is that they're rather hard to prove, of course. Have you conducted the experiment with simpler creatures? I believe the zoology department has a chimp or two somewhere, so if it can be proven that training them to complete a ritual does not normally suffice, but training them to turn on the machine does? Quite a lot of 'if's there, though, not least whether the process can be made simple enough to train a beast on."

The decrepit scholar ceased talking for a moment to let out a harsh, dry chuckle "The traditional method to figuring out if an entity is free-willed or simply an instrument is to wait for it to rebel against its bindings, but I assume you'd rather avoid that?"

"If it's not impolite to change the subject somewhat, does your machine have any predictions on the consequences of the coming election? The shade has already reached out to my benefactor for support, but I admit that the idea of a spirit of hunger and madness being the closest thing available to the city's soul seems rather unwise to me."




At a minimum? Keeping your shadowy self out of the University and Socelli, at least when you're feeling peckish.

Beyond that, I'm rather curious just what you did to the Mirror Queen. And why a hungry shadow in the woods is so interested in a position without physical force, truly"





Walking out of a right angle onto a rocky outcropping as close to the Orb Palace as one can be while still on dry land, the Archivist sat with her legs dangling into the water and opened a flask of something otherworldly smelling as she spoke conversationally to the open sea


"You do excellent work, truly. Always a pleasure to share friends with someone possessed of some vision. But where do our apian acquaintances sit in it, I wonder?"


NPCs



Ohmsgate was not exactly a place many people went walking through lightly, these days. Which would have made the beast-headed spy and alienating, oddly-dressed woman meeting in the same place as the previous month even stranger, if any passerby somehow noticed as they wandered past burnt out husks of buildings and extremely popular cemeteries.

You may want to look into a new nest, my fine feathered friend. Unless you prefer the scent of smoke and screams? There's a nice apartment waiting for you near the University if you want it, regardless.

Excellent work, by the way. The pay was satisfactory? My proxies were a bit put out when I didn't have a precise number for them, but they did their best. It can keep coming if you're amenable to staying on retainer-I'm not about to run out of uses for you anytime soon."




A month to the day-to the minute actually-of her first stroll through the Archive's park, the Archivist returned. Looking like nothing so much as a recording of herself, identical down to the footstep and the steam wafting off her tea. At least until she started to speak

The modifications are working well? No hypergeomtric cascades or drones lost to some hungry void? I don't work with others often, really wasn't sure how it was going to turn out."

"And would I be setting myself up for disappointment to ask if you happened to spend the month discerning what fresh hells are breaking out across half the city?"

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation



Petra speaks up from her position towards the corner of the lab.
"We agree, though the creature seems cannier than expected. Princes are... difficult to predict. However, it appears to have attacked the Mirror Queen in an effort to take her position for itself. I really don't think we ought to reward this behavior."

Kovacs speaks hesitantly.
"To be honest, we're still gathering data. The full scope of the Shade's activities are still coming into focus. We're in discussions with the Shade in an attempt to steer it clear of our territory, but quite frankly it terrifies us."

He pauses, then adds,
"Fourty-five people killed in one month, on top of all but destroying one of the highest-ranking members of the senate? We wouldn't stand a chance!"

"'Problematic,'" speaks a voice from the walls. "'A game to be played carefully. Appeasement is dangerous in the long term, yet necessary to continued survival in the short term. Perhaps it would be useful to solicit the input of the Genius Loci, or some of the other current magistrates. Kargadan, perhaps.

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska



Becker ran his hand along his ornate can, humming to himself for a few odd moments before replying. "We don't yet know just how injured the Mirror Queen is, of course. Or, I don't, if you do any hints would be appreciated. But your machine's point is a good one. I don't suppose either of you have a notion of how to contact the Genius Loci? As for protection, one of the other beast's lairing outside the city seem like the only really effect counterbalances-sun to burn away the shade, or tide to drown in.

At the very least, the wonders of the secret ballot do at least allow us some chance of denying him his prize, provided someone more appropriate presents themselves as a candidate.

[Murska]

Velibor

You, too, have made great strides. I accept your congratulations in the spirit they were given, and offer my own in return.

For my vote, a vote of your own when the time comes. For my support... information. The city whispers, and I would know of the secrets it has to tell.

Kasdeveris

While we have spoken of the opportunity to work together, I would prefer your... displays to be either more discreet or further from where I tread in the future.

What do you think of Damjanak? You have specifically forgone violence within your followers, so I trust it would not be an issue if I were to assist the police with the matter?

The Undivided

A wolf hidden in a man enters their territory. He nimbly climbs up to a barricade and speaks.

"What is the banner you fight under? I would know my new neighbour."

Charnelcreep

"Greetings. It is good to see you've found such an useful way to make a living for yourself. I came to ensure that there is no hard feelings over the noise recently, things will blow over soon and business might even pick up.

Speaking of business, there are some things I seek of this city. I would know if you have anything interesting to show me."

Midnight Sun

"I am sure you already know this, but the skirmishing should be over soon. My apologies if it caused you any issues."

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation



"Unfortunately, we don't. As far as we know the Pontifex is the only one able to do so. Maybe we should reach out to the Mirror Queen. Get her side of the story."

"If it comes down to it, choosing someone else to run is also difficult, and would likely raise the ire of the Shade. In any case, we would need some sort of physical defense if our own actions here draw its attention. Who would you consider 'someone suitible?'"

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska



"My benefactor, your machine, the spider seems sensible enough? Really I would settle for any of them with the good sense to not have their depredations show up in the press, but Lukas wouldn't forgive me if I didn't prefer one with some association to subtlety or knowledge. If the Mirror Queen is in any state to retain the post, supporting her could be done without any public statements that might draw ire.


As for protection, ideally having some other faction make themselves the fact of opposition, the Sun-God has ambitions in the city and enough power to face the shade, I believe? Failing that, or in addition, your machine is an instrument of light and knowledge, yes? My benefactor has become quite enamored of joint projects with those she calls peers."



In an otherwise empty building, a lecture hall is converted to a certain kind of ritual chamber. A grand mirror has been carefully re-assembled and a minor ritual used to restore it to leave it seamless and unblemished. Lamps set in every available surface to leave the room without a hint of shadow. Making an elaborate show of obeisance as he knelt before it, Nathaniel Lukas spoke spoke in fluent Hungarian before repeating the message in German, then Croat, then English and, if no response was forthcoming, Latin, Koine Greek, Aramaic, Avestan, Enochian and Esperanto

"Hail Queen of Mirrors! Do you yet live? The assault upon your office and its holder have been observed with no little concern by many of the fair city's notables, not least my Mistress. Your health aside, there is likewise no small amount of curiosity as to whether you intend to retain your position?

[Murska]

Laurin, King of Roses

"It is in the nature of Empire to, when long united, divide - when long divided, unite. Personally I enjoy seeing the process of unification, the promise of something different and all the glorious details and twists of fortune and the fates on the tapestry of history, brought on by the quirks of greatness.

There is something in this city, an opportunity, that may allow for us to let ourselves be swept along another such story. I seek it, I confess, out of curiosity and joy of life.

Are you a kindred soul in this? I do not begrudge the methodical their ways, it keeps them alive and thriving, but I do prefer the company of like minds."

[Pahvimato]

Velibor


PLAYERS

The recent commotion is, I assure you, an exception rather than the rule. I had to, as I'm sure you understand, direct most of my powers to dealing with the queen. I can be the most subtle of all of us if need be. And, in the future, that will be my goal, assuming the Queen sees reason.

As to my goals if I were to be elected? Simple, really, I intend to do exactly what a Pontifex is supposed to - mediate between the princes and the genius loci as well as stay informed of the various things happening in our city. And, of course, assist those who aided me in gaining the position. Perhaps you'd be interested in finding more about the Genius Loci? If research is indeed your primary goal, understanding the very spirit of the city itself surely would rank highly among your priorities. With such research, you could perhaps find more about the very nature of the existence, possible even of our existence as princes! And with a friendly Pontifex, that can be arranged.

I have already learned so much in such a short time. And Pontifex? Such a role provides even more of that. Surely even I am allowed to be curious, or is that something to be reserved only to you of a more fleshy type? Besides, am I not the most obvious candidate? The most qualified candidate? Purveyor of secrets, a powerful yet subtle force helping us, the princes, onward. As to more immediate concerns, the mysterious mist in Bakar deserves our attention. I hope you are in agreement.

As to the areas you mentioned, I have no interest in them. I find myself satiated, for now. The recent news of my actions are indeed unfortunate, in the sense they have reached so many mortals. That is, I promise, a freak occurrence. A shadow, you see, easily goes unnoticed. A lot of my power simply was focused on finding the queen from within her mirrors, from behind the traps she had laid, and as such I could not exert myself during feeding. In the future I believe I can avoid such news.

And that you shall have.


NCPs

Neighbors. There's fewer of your kind than I remember from the last time we met, although that was a long time ago. What is it that you seek so close to Tsarwood?

[Murska]

Ophois

"If the current Pontifex is truly too weak to retain her position, then clearly it is time for change."

[neriractor]

Kasdeveris

Kasdeveris remains seated as he adresses the shade Velibor, "I hear might makes right? old concepts die hard for a reason, yes. Best hope the Genius Loci agrees with it, There is no candidature for heralds, and if all it took was a desire for the post you can rest assured that we are all in the running."

PCs

Congratulations on achieving the position my friend, looks like I helped tip the scales just enough... the lack of votes does seem to point to what you feared: the princes of this city are content to stagnate, and take the status quo as a given in a world that thrives on change, of course, that will not do.

With a mind to avoid the fate that would befall us all if such an "elite" was to remain in power for long, would you care to take our agreement a step further? some of the others seem to be vying for control of the human political machine as well, and I think using my guise as Milos we'll stand a fair chance of opposing them, of course, any support by you and your followers for the furthering of our goals would be responded to in kind. -Kasdeveris

Sorry about that incident, I had made a deal with the ghoul Charnelcreep and it wouldn't stray away from its usual turf, though it does seem to have been just another drop in the river, I assume you helped the Bokun rid themselves of competition? I'll try to stray further away when I need nourishment anyway.

You don't err in yhour assertion, and no PVC member is involved with the happenings down at Damjanak, though I'm afraid I lack any info beyond the newspapers, if you can narrow the picture that'll be nice, you must have very strong reasons to help the police put down a worker's protest. Not that I'm complaining, a diplomatic solution and concessions would be nice, but while we get in power helping the boys in blue may be just whats needed to keep some traps shut about the supposed communist threat.

Any opinion's on The Old Flesh joining the race?

NPCs

A mirror is quickly pieced back together and Milos speaks through, to himself, in the hopes of being heard "How have the tables turned on you so fast dear queen? who has such hate an ambition?... what will you do about it?"

-[insert String of titles here] Baaliaton.
I'm sorry to hear about the lost of your position, it rings on me wrong to see divine beings so usurped. I've questioned the need for yearly change, given the blinking nature of such a period, but I'm glad it'll serve you well for a swift recovery next year, less you intend to run for another office?

[Murska]

Kasdeveris

"Ah, it is not an issue. I will give the police some assistance in return for help of their own in a matter of importance to me.

As for the flesh... the thing is disgusting. Making others do things by force rather than guile lacks the art and elegance of mastery. And the glamour is just brute force upon insult."

[Pahvimato]

Velibor

But it is no mere might that makes me the most obvious candidate - I am quite clearly the most qualified candidate as well. Not only that, but the only qualified candidate, for there is no other prince with the necessary finesse. And surely you have thought of a role in politics as well? Or perhaps you have other ambitions? Anything that I could perhaps assist you with, in exchange for your aid in making me Pontifex?

[kaio999]

The Dollmaker and the Clockwork kings

PCs

The letter response is impressive but of course, they retain their connection to the archivists through the more important system the telegraph to communicate.


We have some concerns about security as well as hiding our presence from the average citizens.
If you provide any resources at all to such a cause we will allow you basic access to how we do some of our work.
We will also provide some interesting literature.
If this is too much to ask the location of the current owner of Demjanac industries would also be useful.


You mention improving your security.
If you have produced any technologies or techniques
you can share we would be willing to do the same with our new explosives.
We would also want to offer the lovelace foundation a mutual defense pact.
While we have no interest in fighting wars of aggression protecting you is of value to us
We in turn would ask the same of you.


The telegraph will beep into life and if there is no direct source a courier will arrive with the letter. A system designed for safety through the most important tool... Technology.


The proximity of our designated territories are closely tied especially since
much of the industry we forge is cared for by the workers of your own district.
I wanted to make sure we could work together peacefully.
Keeping the peace between us ensures us the workers are fed and in turn that the factories continue to run.
If you have any need of us, please do not hesitate to contact us at your leisure.


NPCs


We would be interested in supporting your organization.
Buying into your company as a partner is something of interest to us.
Is that something that would interest your companies leadership?
We hold the same ideals for workers rights after all.



We did warn you of the threat of the unions.
This was inevitable, of course, but we are still willing to aid you.
Should you surrender 51% of your company things can return to operational status.
You can retire with a golden parachute worthy of your name.
If you do not, you could lose everything to the communists.
I assure you we can clean this up far better than any police officers as it stands your losses are already tremendous.


Using the rally and the workers union attempts are made to contact the communist party within the city.




We are currently in negotiations with director Damjanak to bring an end to the violence in my district peacefully.
We fear he may refuse believing his money some how protects him. Should he not surrender peacefully we were wondering
if you could extend him a hand of friendship and then perhaps have a horrible accident where he meets his final end allowing
us to transition without further issues.

We were also wondering if you were aware of who was involved with the police force. We know they want to put an end to the strike
and would like that issue cleaned up quickly for obvious reasons.

Of course we do not make these requests for free. Once the company is firmly under our control we would make sure a percentage of the profits are
extended to you.

If that is of no value we are also willing to owe you a future boon.

[Murska]

The Dollmaker

Peace and harmony are definitely on my agenda - however, to avoid any unfortunate miscommunications, I would like to ask you where exactly you would rather I not tread to avoid discord and strife?

[neriractor]

Kasdeveris

"Then we agree, it should not reach any victory, specially the one we covet.

I believe we can still find an answer that doesn't have the law crack upon suffering workers then, if you can share the matter with me I have some... influence with the police, surely enough to have them assist you regardless of the worker's strike, perhaps even have them stay on the sidelines."

HA! I do enjoy some pride, used to hoard it like a dragon shinies... I have thought about it as most I believe, do. "Milos" for mayor and myself for Praetor would be ideal... Sure, I'll help you. of course we'll just have to trust and shake hands, can't really have the current Praetor know I'm gunning for the job, not this early at least.

[Murska]

Kasdeveris

I have my own channels to the police, but of course if you have a better way to handle the situation than by using force, I'm all for it.

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

"'An inquiry has begun into some of the matters discussed here.'" The engine says.

Petra nods and says, "We're also very interested in a mutual research agreement. We're planning on devoting some resources to solving the problem of the Prince's hunger. If they can be freed from this need, it might be possible for the two peoples to coexist more freely, not to mention saving countless lives in the process. We need to understand more about the fundamental nature of these beings first, though."

A response to the message arrives almost instantly.

A mutual defense pact would be highly beneficial. Your offer is accepted.
In an effort to improve growth rate, we have developed self-replicating technology which allows any physical structure to be converted into processing hardware with minimal impact on structural integrity.
Need of explosive devices is not anticipated, however a trade is welcome to further promote a relationship of mutual trust.

"'A compelling proposal. You can expect support in the senate.'"
"'It appears that you are motivated by a desire for knowledge. This is commendable. However, among some in the senate, your actions have been construed as a naked power grab, and this perception may result in resistance to our goals. Taking a position by force creates a problematic precedent.'"

Eve approaches Solis Aeterni, carrying the portable radio set. The flickering greyscale hologram of the Thinking Engine's avatar walks beside her.

"'Evening,'" the Engine says. "'Congratulations on your victory. It is likely that Baaliaton will seek reprisals, working through mortal agents or through turning other princes against you. Data is inconclusive on this matter.'"

"'Do you have an interest in enabling or preventing the Shade from gaining the position of Pontifex? Your stance on this matter is important as one of the more powerful magistrates.'"

[Forum Explorer]

Solis Aeterni

The Election

THANK YOU MY FRIENDS! I PROMISE YOU THIS, OUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT! AS FOR THE MIRROR QUEEN, WELL LET HER COME FOR TO DEFEND HERSELF! IF SHE IS INCAPABLE OF DOING SO, THEN SHE IS INCAPABLE OF PERFORMING HER DUTIES AS PONTIFEX AND A NEW ONE MUST BE FOUND!

Nah, we don't have any sort of holy book. Our faith is too straightforward for that. IT works like this. We seek to be the best we can, so we call upon the Sun to improve ourselves. By improving ourselves we become better, and by being better, the more of the Sun's grace we can channel, allowing us to improve ourselves further. Those who fail to do so will be consumed by the Light they attempt to harness. And that's pretty much it. the old man said, shrugging.

I HAVE NO OBJECTIONS TO OTHERS SEEKING TO MANIPULATE MORTALS! SO LONG AS THEIR MANIPULATIONS DO NOT INTERFERE WITH MY OWN! THAT BEING SAID, YOUR HELP WITH SAID MANIPULATIONS WOULD BE MOST WONDROUS! TELL ME, WHAT DO YOU THINK SHALL BE BETTER TO MANIPULATE FIRST, THE MAYOR, THE MEDIA, OR THE POLICE?

I WOULD HAVE NO PROBLEMS HELPING YOU BECOME PONTIFEX!

WE ARE MOSTLY IN FAVOR OF VELIBOR TAKING THE ROLE OF PONTIFEX! IT'S ORIGINS ARE IN THIS LAND, IT IS A SPIRIT THAT HAS DWELLED HERE FOR CENTURIES! WHO BETTER TO NEGOTIATE WITH THE GENUIS LOCI OF THIS PLACE?

MOST IMPORTANTLY, THEY ARE THE ONLY ONE TO STEP FORWARD WILLING TO TAKE UP THE POSITION! IF ONE WERE TO STEP FORWARD AND CHALLENGE VELIBOR FOR THE SPOT, I MAY HAVE TO CHANGE MY MIND, BUT AS IS IT SEEMS CLEAR THAT THEY ARE THE ONLY ONE WILLING TO STRIVE FOR IT!

IT SEEMS OUR COLLABERATION HAS MET WITH GREAT SUCCESS SO FAR! I WOULD BE GREATLY INTERESTED IN CONTINUING IT! BUT FIRST, AM I CORRECT IN ASSUMING THAT WE ARE ON THE SAME PAGE REGARDING OUR INITIAL BENEFITS? THAT WE MAY RECRUIT THESE NEW BRILLIANT MINDS, BUT NOT CONSUME THEM, LEST WE SCARE AWAY FUTURE BENEFITS?

THANK YOU FOR THE CLOSE FOUGHT VOTE! THAT IS WHAT I WOULD SAY IF WHAT HAPPENED WAS NOT AN INSULT TO THE BOTH OF US! SEVEN. ONLY SEVEN PRINCES VOTED! SO PLEASE! GO AND GATHER YOUR ALLIES AND SUPPORT! AND COME THE NEXT ELECTION, LET US HAVE A PROPER CONTEST!

[Pahvimato]

Velibor


Two roles in exchange for one does not seem like the most fair of trades. Perhaps, for now, I will do what I can to give you the position of mayor, leaving any discussions of Praetor for later? If there are political opponents of yours in the mortal world, I could visit them, reduce the competition.

Excellent. Inform me if you need anything else.

Pontifex is a unique position in the sense that there are few options to rise into the position, other than removing the previous one. I imagine the majority of princes understand this, especially if this does indeed remain a single incident instead of becoming a habit of mine. If such worries exist, however, I'd like to know more. Perhaps there is something I can do to ease these fears.

[Eldan]

Velibor
The Mirror Queen
With a screech, the words scratch themselves into the mirror.
"Oh, you poor, deluded, futile fool."

The Dainava Howlpack
"Why would we seek? We seek to live. To hunt and mate, and stalk the night and strike the terror of the wild in the mortal heart. We made Russia and Germany unite, in their greatest war, against us. The peak of glory. Now we just rest."

The Archivist of Novska
Midnight Sun
"Ah, would that I could. But I could not make do with an appartment and it would take me weeks to set up again properly in a new location. But yes, the pay is entirely satisfactory"

The Waxen Archives
++++Drones lost to hungry void: 274 and counting. Problem to be refined.++++

++++And now the Turkey Trot Trio++++

++++Hypergeometric cascades exciting. Investigating new theory of physics involving twelve-dimensional vibrations. Focusing on internal investigation, at cost of external.++++

++++Buzzing, dancing, string theory. All the same.++++


The Mirror Queen
It takes a while for anything to happen, after the Hungarian words are spoken and the German words, too, are almost over, before a metallic screeching sound disturbs the silence. In the mirror, a door opens to the lecture hall,and the mirror queen steps through.
She has changed. Her head is still that of a middle-aged noblewoman, but now hangs limply over her shoulder, her neck almost entirely severed, attached only by a few pieces of charred meat. Her voluminous black dress is ripped, but not by outside attack, but by jagged etches of mirrored steel that have projected outward from her body, longer than her spread arms, which now end in wicked, curved blades instead of hands. As she walks to the middle of the lecture hall, a trail of fresh blood is left behind.
"Archivist." Her voice is a dry wheeze.
"More alive than in centuries, I should say. It is wonderfully invigorating to have a good war. I only wish it was not so futile."


Ophois
The Undivided
The man who comes to speak has only one leg and walks on a crude, wooden crutch, but in his other hand, he holds some kind of rifle, spring-loaded, but with a modified barrel of brass, with curious attachments, like fins, projecting from it. His canvas trench coat is splattered with mud and blood up to the shoulders. A sigil adorns his forehead, burned into the flesh, and his left eye continuously twitches.
"Banner? THere is no banner. There are only those who wake up from the dream of civilization, the promises of empty gods, the mocking laughter of those who wrote that particular playbook. Who smell the charring flesh and hear the roar of the flames of the endtimes. Who have realized that we are no longer on the road to hell, but have long arrived and are now knee-deep in burning sulphur. That compared to singing marching songs on the road paved with good intentions, oblivion is the sweeter alternative. THAT is your neighbor, dog."

Charnelcreep
Charnelcreep smiles, a glint in his mismatched eyes. "Why should I mind the noise, when you are dropping so many scraps off your table for a poor, old ghoul. What do you wish to know, master? Shall I devour entrails for you, and tell you of their provenance? Or would you have me dig in the refuse pits for more secret files? Always popular, those. Takes a ghoul to find the secrets others thought destroyed, sift the ashes. Or is it names, you seek? I know many."

Midnight Sun
"Oh, do not worry. The impact is negligible, and I am well-fortified."

Laurin, King of Roses
"My people have been on the declining end of history since before the Romans. I've lived through three empires, and I can't say any of them has held much promise for me. I do not like to tell this story, but then, it is quite public, if you know where to look.
I am bound, Ophois, since the time of Theoderich. They took my belt, and my hat and dragged me from my garden and I am cursed and bound, to serve Goths and Franks and Langobards and Burgundians . And to so faithfully, without scheming, or to fade from sight and memory forever.
I serve a hundred dead kings and more, and have nothing to gain by adding another to the list. And yet, I must do it, I am compelled. Who, then, is your conqueror?"


Kasdeveris
The mirror Queen
It takes a while for anything to happen, after the words are spoken, before a metallic screeching sound disturbs the silence. In the mirror, a door opens to the lecture hall,and the mirror queen steps through.
She has changed. Her head is still that of a middle-aged noblewoman, but now hangs limply over her shoulder, her neck almost entirely severed, attached only by a few pieces of charred meat. Her voluminous black dress is ripped, but not by outside attack, but by jagged etches of mirrored steel that have projected outward from her body, longer than her spread arms, which now end in wicked, curved blades instead of hands. As she walks to the middle of the lecture hall, a trail of fresh blood is left behind.
Her voice is a dry wheeze.
"Oh, the tables have not turned so recently, Kasdeveris. And I am not defeated. I am invigorated. What better than a war, to rekindle lust in one's heart? It is a futile war, but that is no reason not to make it glorious."

Baaliaton
"No, my last office serves me quite well, my Lord, and I will have it back. Where politics fail, there is of course always their continuation with other means."

[Murska]

Ophois

The Undivided

He laughs long and loudly at the speech of the little man.

"Ah, but if it were oblivion you seek, that would be simple. There is always the edge of the knife or the twined rope.

Say what you will, but as you still stand and speak you've fallen prey to that most dangerous fault of man. The seeking of purpose.

It is hell we all stand in, truly. If you consider yourself a saviour to deliver your oblivion to others, or beast to revel in decay. For my part..."

He shrugs.

"I seek to enjoy what I can of it. Meaning is false, so are gods and their promises. Do with life what you will, or end it if you so choose."

Charnelcreep

"Secrets are always a currency worth trading. But there is one I seek beyond most. I'm in this city to find someone upon whom the string of Fate is tied. Someone... worthy. I know they are here, just not who and where.

If you can tell me of the Conqueror, it will be of great value to me."

Midnight Sun

"It is good to hear. I may have business for you at a later date, so I am glad to remain cordial.

I wish you well in future tides."

Laurin, King of Roses

"Ah." Ophois pauses for a moment, before approaching with a nod. He looks genuinely surprised and even sympathetic.

"It seems we are more alike than I had expected. Though your fate is more cruel than my own. I serve, as it is my nature as the guide and opener of ways. My bindings weigh little, as I am born to enjoy my duty. Were I chained with yours, forced to brute honesty instead of the contest of wit and mettle, I expect I would be driven mad soon enough.

What I seek in Novska is something I know to be here. I am drawn to the potential. I do not know where, or whom it is, so I am able to offer you this reprieve, and knowledge in advance, of the task that is to come.

You have a beautiful garden, your Majesty. I wish it remains untrampled."

The Bokun Family

"The streets are clean of foreign trash again, and safer for everyone too. I know you fine gentlemen won't cause undue trouble - we don't want anyone poking into things after the war calms down.

Our partnership is off to a fine start, I think. Is there anything else your operations need that we might be able to help with, in our role as protectors of the public, friends to the upstanding policemen of the city and political activists?"

City Police, director Damjanac

Greetings from the Lost

We have been warning the city of communist agitators for some time now. It seems likely that this sort of an attack could only have been organized and funded by an outside actor. Such a thing cannot be tolerated in our city, and so we offer our services in support of any attempt to bring the matter to a satisfying conclusion. Of course, given how heavily they are armed, perhaps the Militia should be asked for some support in the matter?

[Copper8642]

ELTEST KHA

"In the Mirror Queen's state, are we sure she can put forth an answer? If she is currently capable of actively putting forth her resignation, then she is also capable of making an argument for keeping her position as Pontifex and we would be remiss not to at least listen. If she is nowhere to be heard, then we are likely in need of a new Pontifex.

I hold a concern we should all hold however. Am I mi҉st͢a͠k͏en̢ in believing the Mirror Queen was attacked by a Prince of the Senate in search of her position. I f̵͘͢è͜a͘͡r͢͡ the precedent this sets. I did not join the Senate on the understand that we assaulted Princes when we wanted their seats. What do you think, Velibor?"

"In other matters, I am curious if any of our fellow Princes could share any information regarding who is digging up the Waxen Archive, and why? Similarly, did any of our number investigate The Mist?"
---

In an office in the lodge, a woman in a suit reads the Rally to the shimmering humanoid form circling the room. It asks her to repeat it when she is done, and again after that. It is distracted. This ẃ̕o̷͟ŕl̵͠d̨̛̕ is so complex. There is so much to do.

To The Serpent
Anything you want to know about our fellow princes and shades, we will send the information your way, in exchange for safe passage for the things we want through the harbor. This is agreeable.

[Pahvimato]

Velibor

"She was, indeed, attacked. But she should not have been given that role in the first place, and I am simply correcting that mistake. Given the laws those that came before us have drafted around the position of the Pontifex mean we can not simply vote her out, some more drastic measures were, unfortunately, required. She is, it seems, not very interested in the legitimacy of her position. How long has it been since the last vote? Does anyone, at this point, support this creature?

But yes, let's have her speak for herself. Queen, please do make your stance public.

As to the mist, I'd be happy to assist, once this squabble has been resolved."


PLAYERS

Prince.

Perhaps now, that we are in private, we could discuss the Pontifex matter further. There can be no election for a Pontifex if the previous one clings on to the position. As such, the current one had to be convinced it would be in their best interest to vacate the seat. I do not believe us Princes fighting each other is a positive thing in most cases, but she is stubborn enough to not realize when the time for a new election has come. I hope you understand this was an action taken out of necessity, not wanton assault.

You did mention the mist. Is there something you know of it? It is quite close to my home, and as such, worries me greatly.


NPC

Deluded fool? Futile? Only one thing is futile and that is your attempt to continue this conflict. You know just as well as I do what happened last month was simply the beginning. All your traps, all your enchantments gone. You can no longer hide in the relative safety of your realm, for I now know how to get there, how to get to you. I had hoped that you, with the reputation you have, would have realized naivete is not a virtue. You know you will lose, and you know it won't take much effort. After all, how many times did you even successfully strike me? None, was it not?

Relinquish your seat. Spend your time plotting, if you wish. Recruit some allies, perhaps. Make the war worthy of being called such, instead of throwing your life away so carelessly.

Ha. The peak of glory would have been to win such war. Perhaps you could regain your strength? Assist me in securing Tsarwood. No mortal, no immortal creature should tread within these lands without my permission. You are, indeed, the greatest hunters in Novska. Find those that would trespass, and in return I will assist you. Is there something specific that you require? Help in increasing your numbers? Revenge on those that struck you down?

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska

Professor Becker raised his hand and cleared his throat in response to the Shade's remarks. "A question, if I may? It goes without saying that you're rather more fearsome than most of your peers, which can be something of a problem for democracy. Are you saying that you only attacked the Mirror-spirit to open the seat, but would abide by the election even if you lost? Would you swear so to our Preator?

PCs



Mmm, you might say my main concern is whether you will use those secrets to urge us onward and not, say, herd us to the slaughter. Is the shadow a partisan of the sun then? Future soul of some glamorous Adriatic empire?

As for the mist, you've the right of it. If you do win the election and don't instantly try to eat my soul, I'm happy to contribute to some expiation deciphering just what fresh hell is brewing beneath us.




The reply, delivered promptly

I must admit with some embarrassment that the affairs of mortal industrialists are somewhat far from the interests of our fraternity. To the point where it entirely escaped our knowledge that the leader of the city's largest syndicate is evidently in hiding. I will endeavor to write again should some information on that front unearth itself from our exertions.

To pivot to matters of a grander import, would it be impertinent to ask your grand artisan's opinion of the present political crisis?

In growing Enlightenment,
Ms. Elsa Keay, on behalf of the Illuminated Orient of Novska



Becker's arm jerked suddenly, as if he was suffering from a seizure-saved that the 'random' exertions limited themselves to dragging a pen from his pocket and the nearest available paper, as some will separate form his conscious mind poured out script for several long moments.

Sighing afterwards and reading what he had just written, the old scholar explained "My apologies for the outburst. But it appears the Mirror does still have a Queen. She seems rather intent on a glorious last stand at the moment."

Looking over to the whirring calculating engine, he continued "Provided the object of the research is appealing, I cannot imagine my benefactor would object. I know she rather resents relying on humanity to view the world. Might we expand it to something of an informal general alliance as well? Mutual defense, the sharing of pertinent information, cooperation in areas of mutual interest?

But as I was saying, the Mirror spirit is rather intent on going out fighting. We're rather uniquely well equipped to help her without presenting ourselves as targets, aren't we?"



Ms. Tester nodded appreciatively, jotting down notes in her well-worn travelogue-then grew extremely stiff for a moment, hand scrawling across the page faster then should really be possible. Reading it with a barely suppressed sigh, she replied.

"That's very interesting, much obliged for the information. And I'm told congratulations are in order? You did get my patron's vote, for the record. She's surprisingly interested in who you're going to invade first.

Anyway, and I know how annoyingly indirect this is, I've been asked to ask if your God is already committed, if there was a contested vote on who becomes Pontifex?


NPC



The Archivist had a vaguely interested look on her face at the number of lost drones. "I'm afraid I'm quite otherwise occupied for the coming month-unless everyone becomes sane and reasonable compromisers like they always do in Europe in the '20s, anyway. But do tell me if you figure out anything fascinating. And since I'm here, is there anything more provincial my proxies might arrange to help you on your mission? Property, mortal secrets, et cetera?



With a little shrug, the Archivist ducked under a doorway and appeared on the far side of what seemed like the beginnings of a street brawl, stopping to wait for the avian spy to catch up. "A shame, but yours. Well, shall we continue as before? It does seem like a shadow might be falling over this lovely city, and I truly hate being left in the dark."

Seemingly entirely too happy with herself about that last line, she continued after a moment "I don't suppose you'd be amenable to being kept on retainer? I really can't see myself not using you anywhere into the mid term, but reliability makes planning so much less a pain."



As if called, the Archivist walked out of a right angle in the corner of everyone's eye, dismissing her proxy with a wave and giving the Mirror Queen a truly overindulgent bow.

"You Magyrs always did love your romance. Last Stands and Lost Causes and Ancient Rights and all that. Well, if you're going to spit in the face of death, all I can really ask for is a transcript. But if you'd like to avoid futility I might be able to provide a bit of deniable aid.

[Pahvimato]

Velibor

"Depends. I would not swear to allow the Queen to retain the position, no. Her incompetence far exceeds what can be allowed in a position of such importance. I would, however, be willing to swear to abide by an election between me and someone else."

There was a time for public statements, and a time for a more private discussion. The ambiguously shaped shadow shortly shifting to a more humanoid form, just long enough to gesture the professor towards one of the side rooms. After that, it dissolved into a fine mist, only to seconds later manifest itself within said dimly lit room where it waited for Becker's arrival.

"I have no desire to allow the Queen to retain a position it should not have been appointed to in the first place. The fears you have, however, are unfounded, and we can perhaps do something about. So, let us indeed go to the Praetor and make an agreement. Not of what you suggested however, but something more along these lines:

I do not rise my hand against you, unless it is in self defense. I will not attack either the archivist, or her followers. You, in turn, will not attack me or mine, unless it is to defend yourself from me.

If I do become Pontifex, my first action in that role will be finding more about the mist and then assisting the senate in dealing with it once its nature becomes clear.

There will be no indirect action against each other either as I will be forbidden from hunting within your territory, and you in mine. I will not assist your enemies, and you will not assist mine.

Would this be something that would ease your mind? Does it require additions, clarifications? If you were to be so kind as to bring the Archivist herself here, we could take this to the Praetor immediately. As to how long such an agreement would be in force, I'm willing to discuss about. Until the election of the next praetor is resolved, perhaps? We can, of course, make another contract right after."

And with it, it was done for now. It didn't smile - for a shadow could not - but it did have an aura of sorts, an aura of both excitement, as if it was eager to hear the response, and amusement.

[neriractor]

Kasdeveris

PCs

I don't doubt you do. It'll require skillful negotiations but we may be able to get Darmajak into making concessions, and have the workers happy that they reached the desired outcome, the ringleaders' other goals notwithstanding. On the side I can pull some leverage with the police to get whatever it is you want and leave them out of the picture for the strike, if you don't have any objections, of course.

Make your path known and I'll strive to not stand in it. The media of course, if we control it then getting the post of mayor should be beyond easy, and once there the police will be our willing servants. The thinking engine does seem to have the upper hand there but getting control over the papers should place us ahead for now, radios are not common, after all.

A vote and a beneficial act each, that I split my part of the deal into two different goals hardly seems a matter worth debating. Still, we can speak of the position when elections come around. I'll hold on to that favor, as you can to mine, since for now my mortal competition causes no troubles, but should a suitable nail appear no doubt I'll ask you to hammer.

Once again Mayoral candidate Michael milos makes his way around the lobby of the Lovelace foundation's building, asking the receptionist, with an easygoing smile, if he can meet the board.

NPCs

"I imagined you would, good luck then on recovering your rightful seat but be careful, your opponent chose politics, he didn't have to, I imagine I need not remind you what happens when you fly too high on waxen wings."

Milos takes the new appearance in stride, such effects being mild at best in the supernatural community "Excuse me then for assuming wrongly, would you have my help as an apology? while I may not directly attack your enemy I can impair its allies if you know of any, keep your fight a duel, there is no combat more glorious than one."

[Hamste]

The Old Flesh


To expand of course, more business is always good and to eventually finish the ritual. We are already working on an expansion, you might have heard but we are sponsoring the Lions and have some dealings with others in that area. As for working with others, we should work well with most, as long as they don't disrupt business or CONSUMPTION with loud antics.
Gourmet Radson says smiling, the flesh just blubbing away behind the illusion. He turns slightly and cuts off another piece of meat and tosses it to a homeless looking man who just came in. They immediately stuff their face with the meat.

The following was found assuming you use both people immune to illusion and those who aren't.

Everyone who views it, calls it a pelmeni even those who don't know the word. Those immune just get a vague feeling and can clearly see it is not while those not immune will not believe otherwise and will think it looks delicious. Both describe the meal as delicious when consumed.

It is still delicious even when eaten in total sensory deprivation, though people are unable to say what it is beyond it being meat.

For the air tight container test those not immune to illusion describe the meat as looking delicious and that it is a pelmeni when seen in an air tight container and all are willing to eat it. Those immune don't feel anything particular and can't even say what it is beyond it being meat. Their acceptance is much more varied depending on personal preference with most not willing to eat the gross looking meat.

The stew's taste is described as decent but most people agree that it would taste better with out the vegetables. People say the vegetables taste similar to ashes. If it is then served with out vegetables except spices, people will agree it tastes slightly above average.

Those who are not sick when they eat the food will find that their blood has a slightly higher count of white blood cells, their blood pressure is slightly closer to 110/70 and their bathroom schedule is more regular, the effects are small enough to be almost unnoticeable if you aren't testing for it. The stew appears to have no effect though it is unclear if it is because it is so diluted or because it is mixed with other things. The only down side noted is a decreased curiosity and suspicion. Effects seem to decrease slowly with time.

Those who were sick suffered from a range of effects including their illness getting worse before suddenly getting better, no effects at all from the food and in one case a slightly faster than average heal time. It is not clear if the food did anything or if this was natural.

All who ate the food that were not in the stew group report that they want to eat more. This effect does not seem to decrease with time though it is a slight craving at most.

No extra dimensional mass is observed with it weighing exactly as expected.

The alchemy test finds it is mostly pig mixed with some beef and an unknown meat. It is believed something may be wrong with the tests as several unknown compounds were found along with blatantly harmful compounds such as broken glass and cyanide both of which were apparently used as spices.

Animals accept the meat and seem to enjoy it even if they are not normally carnivorous. Herbivores lose considerable weight as they eat fewer vegetables immediately after though most bounce back. When offered a choice between the meat and their natural food source, all chose the meat.

No spirits detected.

Nothing is seen growing on the meat left in a dark area, though it does appear to have shrank. A look at it through a microscope reveals it is teeming with bacteria. The students don't know what it is but it consumes the meat quickly and seems resistant to heat. The meat in the air tight container shows no notable shrinkage.





Interesting you request my help after that. I do have an idea for the favors already. They aren't even that big of a deal. You see the amount of panic you caused is quite impressive. Even with our abilities you were able to cause people to be paranoid. You don't appear feed on that fear though which gives us options.

Your idea was a good one, feed near the eatery so people don't panic as much. But what if you were to feed near another Prince who happened to be a competitor to me for mayor. Perhaps Ophios? Why with so much panic and with the right pressure they would have to let me open an eatery there and the council might even pay for it. Once enough eateries are set up you could start a rotating chain so the panic never reaches unreasonable levels and you can keep growing. A win for both of us. You get to feed, I get to grow and we can work together nicely.

The other favor is a vote of support for a vote of support. Your followers support me for mayor maybe by spreading the word about how my economic reforms would be good for the lower class or something similar and I support you for Pontifex. I am not sure how good they work together but it could be useful.

[Murska]

Kasdeveris

"Ah, my goals are simple. I just wish for everyone involved to go home satisfied and feeling that at least some political operators in the city are looking out for the good of everyone. Police included, so I'd rather not have them stay away entirely - if you could pull your strings so to speak, to get them to promise amnesty to the poor duped masses while we go in and take out the actual ringleaders who provided the connections and heavy weaponry, that should look good for the presses and avoid harming your base. Damjanac, of course, should be suitably grateful."

[Eldan]

The Dollmaker
The Rally
Do we, though? It is of the utmost importance that the news remain independent. Feel free to leave an anonymous donation, but we can not fraternize or associate.

Damjanak
Interested as I am in hiring troops, 51% is an offer so laughable, it can not even be considered. What would you offer that the Silver Falcons or any number of hired thugs would not? Why would I give up my life's work to you, in exchange for help with a temporary inconvenience?

Communist radicals
OOC: Those wouldbe rather underground and I'm mostly considering contacting the Rally also contacting the communists in general. Still, if you want to dig further, that would best fit as an EOT action.

The Bone Miller
The city government and especially the police used to be firmly aligned with Baaliation. Where they stand now, I can not say.

Damjanak having an accident would not, I think, help us. I strongly suggest finding more subtle ways to take over. This is no longer the dark ages: killing the feudal lord and marching in with your armies does not give you their titles. It would only lead to chaos. Machines standing still, wages unpaid, workers idling. A terrifying state of affairs. Please consider having an at least superficially legal method of inheriting the company and taking over operations smoothly in place before you continue with violence. If you have such an idea which does not just boil down to military occupation, please tell me and I would be only too glad to help, consolidation of industrial capacity in Princely hands is a worthy goal.

[kaio999]

I am currently punishing Damjanak for a slight. His factory has been producing a lot of work for us and we wanted to forge an
amicable relationship with the man and he refused. Now we intend to keep his factory shut down,
and hemorrhage money from him until he sees sense. If you could avoid influencing the workers in your area to end the strike or
get involved with police or miltary we would be grateful. We do know he is attempting such things himself.



Excellent it is agreed. Do you have any ability to manipulate communications or disrupt organizations?
We would like to have the police distracted a little longer. Any aid there would be beneficial while we attempt to sieze
Damjanak to speed up our ability to process more clockwork kings and improve our output on all future projects.




If you refer to the elections my answer is a simple one. Do not rock ships already in the process of capsizing. Focus on a lifeboat of your own. I have no
interest in creating issues for the princes and I am hoping I can focus on my work while they do what they have always done.

As for that human any aid would be considered wonderful, as would any technological trades you can think might be of beneficial exchange. I am happy to work with you.




Perhaps not a lethal accident just bad enough where he ends up in my shop and realizes hes
best as a member of the clockwork kings and not toiling away in
his factory competing with you for head industrialist.
A position he is far from qualified of holding. We must ensure your absolute stranglehold of such matters
I have ways of making sure he signs a legal contract once I have him face to face.
it is of the utmost value of all who crave to see this city trek towards modernization and technological advancement.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Joy Spiders

Silk laden spiders bubble out of the surf and mound together into an approximation of a human form. With chittering mandibles they hiss, "The archives of wax hold information I desire. Knowledge for services is a suitable trade, and in truth it gave me some Joy to be able to design such a structure. It has been too long since I had such a challenging engineering conundrum."

[Murska]

Dollmaker

"While it is quite interesting that you directed this message to me, I would like to counter with my own proposal.

I would not have any problem with an ordinary strike, except in words and bluster as a matter of course. But the violence and weaponry employed causes some issues.

I am hoping for a negotiated resolution, and if Damjanac is bled of his excess in the doing, that is fine. It should humble the man. The people employing violence need also to be punished, though of course only insofar as it looks like we've caught the proper culprits."

[Copper8642]

Eltest Kha

"But if you decide shortly that the new Pontifex is unworthy, and it is time for yet another election? I f̶̵͝e̛͝͏á̕r͢͠͡ where this may lead us."

Velibor
Apologies, shade, but I know little of the mist; that is why I am concerned about it.

To The Archivist
These are all things that the Prince would agree to. Someone to turn to when help is needed is a useful resource.

And you may do what you like in the port, but please, let us know first. I'll remind you that the Port Authority remains independent for now, so do mind them. We will inform you when this matter changes.

To the Joy Spiders
Were one to look off of the cliffs, they may have noticed that the diver that went down under the waves and never came back up. If they were to look closer, they might notice the faint green glow that briefly reached the surface of the water, before fading away under the deeps.

"Apologies, Princess, for taking so long to respond to the invitation. You know as well as I the urgent distractions that arise as a Prince or Princess of this city.

I would like to come to an arrangement regarding your silks and vestments, and the men and women who follow me. The humans respect wealth and "taste" and "fashion," and I suspect there would be status to be wrought from wearing the silks you ply. The value of the protective qualities should be more obvious.

We can trade in wealth if that is your desire, but if there is anything else you with to trade in, please let us know."

[kaio999]

Ophois

We realized our actions might stir up the workers in your territory we do not want to offend. Or cause you any disharmony.
As for settling the matter, I am fine with having several culprits punished but I need to get my hands on the factory owner first.
Once I can speak with him face to face you can have scapegoats. Will that be acceptable?
Are you planning on doing anything about the paper in your territory?
Do you have interest in human business?

[Murska]

Dollmaker

Of course, human business is so entertaining. I am enjoying reading the Rally's publications, and would like to be made aware if anyone was intending to do something to such an interesting production.

You do realize the factory owner is not, in fact, at the factory? With heavily armed communist agitators taking over the premises, he is definitely also not going to enter said factory until it is clearly safe.

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation




It would be difficult for us to act without revealing our hand. These are not matters in which we are used to dealing.
We will do what we can, but we cannot make guarantees in this regard.

Michael Milos is welcomed with a smile and quickly escorted into the depths of the building. The door of his destination swings open silently, a full six inches thick, and when it settles shut, the background hum of the building is, at last, muted. He enters into a conference room which appears to have been very freshly constructed. A long conference table occupies most of the room, with one side pressed up against a wall.The members of the leadership of the Lovelace Foundation enter shortly after: Ivan, Petra, Eve, and Mia.
The wall adjacent to the end of the table flickers and the room seems to extend a few feet into where there was once a wall. A faint screen-door effect separated the real space from the virtual. At the new end of the table sat the same avatar of the Engine that appeared at the council meeting, its head obscured by a cloud of black-and-white static.
"'So, what brings you here today?'" it says.

Kovacs nods excitedly at the prospect. "That would be wonderful, yes! We have very few resources at our disposal to defend ourselves physically. For this reason we are afraid to get too politically involved..." He looks to the other scientists. "And to be honest, as wary as we are about the Shade gaining in power, for the very same reason, we're concerned that proposing our Engine as a competitor might present too much of a risk to our safety."
"You may call us cowards, but unlike some in this city we're only human," Petra adds.
"But gaining powerful allies will be necessary. We've reached out to Solis Aeterni, and it seems that he prizes strength and courage above all else-- though we're unsure if he would support us through the desire of protecting the weak, or refuse out of disdain for our reticence."

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska



Becker followed the Shadow's gesture, stumbling slightly and gripping his cane to keep form collapsing as his exquisitely crafted glass eye glowed for a moment. When the shadow arrived in the side room, the Archivist was waiting for it. Giving the Shade a polite nod as she took a seat "If you've got an offer, I'm quite interested in listening.

After the pitch was made, she leaned back for a moment and considered Its all very reasonable. My only issues are avoiding misunderstandings. A list of what your territory and enemies are, mostly. Obvious enough at the moment, but I'll want to be clear on whether you're invading somewhere or just stopping by for a snack. Beyond that, the deal seems agreeable enough. Though might I add a friend or two of mine? Good scholars are such a pain to find. Likewise to any allies you'd like to name, of course."



Lukas responded to that with a polite nod And entirely reasonable and expected answer, and one we are glad to receive. If any projects of mutual interest present themselves to you, please do not hesitate to bring them to my Lady's attention.

Now, if events proceed as might be hoped, your proxy will sit in the Mayor's seat. So given, do you have thoughts on who may be our future Pontifex?"



Taking a long sip from her canteen, the Archivist gave a nod to the simulacrum "Likewise. I do hope we collaborate more in the future. I've more involved hopes for the bees, lovely that we don't conflict. And if you'd ever like to trade for secrets, please don't forget me either.

Now, in heavier news-what do you think of this whole business with the Pontifex?



Lukas gave a nod in response. "An enlightened and heartening response. Though if some revisions might be made to my previous statement-it would be appreciated if my Lady's light hand towards the Port might be reciprocated with respect to Socelli?

If some further impertinent curiosity might be tolerated, has your patron made clear an opinion on the current affair with the mirror and the shade?



Becker gave another shudder as his hand wrote down a second burst of information. Reading it, he cleared his throat awkwardly "Well, it seems my benefactor has been extended the offer of a non-aggression pact by the Shade. One enforced by the Praetor, even. Which should make the issue of whether she can safely run for Praetor settled, if nothing else. Though it will rather reduce our freedom of action in terms of imposing costs, should we accept it. She has asked whether it might be extended to allies as well, should you wish your device to be named.

Of course, I'm sure my benefactor would still be more than happy to collaborate on some academically interesting project. And what you did with it or who you gave it to after the fact would be none of her concern."

[Eldan]

Solis Aeterni
The Bone Miller
"Oh, quite. I pride myself on furthering briliant mortal minds, not consuming them. Indeed, my consumptive needs are almost entirely met by common workers and it would be a shame to replace them with more valuable subjects. No, as far as that is concerned, we are utterly in agreement.

Baaliaton
It is good that you are gracious in victory, at least. However, honour demands that I will have to seek redress for this defeat. With my standing, I can not take such a thing lying down.

As far as the vote is concerned, a poor showing indeed. It is perhaps a sign of how complacent this city has become, if no one even thinks the vote important enough to bother. So many we thought allied, and so few of them bothered. Perhaps the city needs a Reckoning."

Ophois
The Undivided
"Not oblivion for us. It is said a man still lives while his name is spoken. You heard that one? We seek universal oblivion. The ultimate clean slate.
You ask if we are saviour or beast. We are the Boddhisatva of the knife-edge. We bring the salvation of blood to those who do not want it. We fan the flames, so the fire might burn itself out faster.

Charnelcreep
The ghoul shrugs with two uneven shoulders.
"Half the city is conquerors, the other half is bottom-feeders like me. As for the strings of fate, for that, you need an oracle, not a spy, I think. I could help you find one of those, at least."

Laurin, King of Roses
The King smiles, sadly, behind his beard.
"Well, after one has carried chains for a thousand years, one might not feel them as much anymore. But let us speak of other things.

You seek one with potential. From what I know of true conquerors and empire-buildiers, and I have met and served a dozen in my life, they start at the bottom. You want unrealized potential. Someone just beginning their rise. Perhaps not even a Prince. Temujin was a slave boy, not a noble."

The Bokun Family
"We've cleaned up, now we must rebuild. Recruit, remind people of their business ties, establish new businesses. If you can keep the police off our neck a bit, we would of course be very grateful for that, it would save us the bribes."

Director Damjanac
I should have listened to the warnings it seems, yes. And already I am getting a lot of truly insulting offers for help. Not yours, just others. We will have to crack down, and hard. IT seems my own men were not sufficient, and neither is the police. I intend to hire mercenaries, first."

The Police
It's a shame. A damn, bloody shame. We knew there were some bad apples here, but I didn't half fear it would be so bad. What we need is a crackdown, I say. If they let me have my way, we'd the presses shut down, curfew for the working class and we'd break heads wherever those damn unionists gather. Unpatriotic, is what it is. Shameless. They don't know their place. But what can I do, the mayor shuts me down if I suggest it. What we need is martial law or we'll be the new Russia in two years, mark my words."

[Eldan]

Velibor
The Mirror Queen
"You caught me off-guard, will admit it. That doesn't mean I can't fight back. You haven't even seen me strike. You want your worthy war? You will have it, as far as measured battle is concerned. But you will not have it insofar as you will never gain the price you seek."

The Howlpack
"They didn't strike us down. The war ended, and we relocated. But no, wolves are self-sufficient. Give us hunting grounds, and we have all we need. The Tsarwood, as you say."

The Archivist
The Waxen Archive
++++Input. Always input. Information, local or otherwise, yes. Feed the Archive++++

Midnight Sun
"Exclusively on retainer to you, or only for certain services? Because I am getting other, very lucrative offers."

The Mirror Queen
The queen laughs, and blood bubbles over wounds in her torso.
"Oh, I am not throwing anything away. But yes. Allies. One always needs them, in a war. What were you thinking of?"

[Eldan]

Kasdeveris
Baaliaton
"And the military is not the only weapon of a king. If he wants to play politics, well, I've been at this as long as he has."

The Mirror Queen
"A duel is the last thing I seek. It goes against my nature and my strengths. I am a Queen, not a Questing Knight. No, we will bleed him out, slowly, with a thousand needles, fighting an enemy he can't find. The mirrors in the city are gone. How, then, would he find me now, if he can not even see my world reflected?"

[Murska]

The Undivided

"Well, if you seek to fan the flames, far be it for me to stand in your way."

Charnelcreep

"Ah, I did not expect such fortune in the first place. But yes, an oracle would be most traditional in my circumstance. You say you know where one resides?"

Laurin, King of Roses

"I am well aware. But for every one that rises, millions do not. Nevertheless, I will do what I must."

The Bokun Family

"We'll see about keeping them distracted for the time being."

Director Damjanac

"While we're not mercenaries, we'd be willing to help in this. Why, it is practically our civic duty."

The Police

"Well, this is the perfect opportunity to show the politicians how right we were. A cut and dry case, heavily armed criminals spouting communism and attacking innocent folk. Just need to find out which bastard delivered the guns here from Russia and we'll be able to cut them out at the root.

You have my help in the matter, I'll talk to Damjanac and get them to 'hire' us so you don't catch any flak for it. If you have any connections with the army boys you should bring them in as well, we need to make a show of this and they've dug themselves in pretty hard."

Eltest Kha

"My greetings.

I would like to ask your opinion on two matters.

For one, someone has seemingly provided military support to the Undivided, a somewhat problematic cult within the city. If you know anything of it, I would be interested to hear it.

And more pressingly in the immediate, some faction or other has instigated a bunch of heavily armed communist agitators to take over one of Mr. Damjanac's factories. If you have troops free, I hear the factory owner would be quite willing to compensate them for participating in such a training exercise. The more the merrier, as they say."

[St.Just]

The Archivist of Novska



"Exclusivity's an ideal, but I can respect an attachment to autonomy, if you're skittish. For now, lets say I'd appreciate being warned if I'm being outbid, and given a chance to respond?"



The Archivist took a sip form her canteen as the decapitated spirit laughed, wiping her mouth on her sleeve and beginning to pace the room as she replied

"Oh, I'm not one for public declarations or grand charges, first of all. If all goes well I'll be agreeing to a non-aggression pact with your shadowy adversary. But, well, myself and some other more pacific princes think hunting each other like starving wolves sets rather a bad example. And seeing as we're all rather bright, the obvious solution was to off some enhancement under the table.

[Nyrt]

The Lovelace Foundation

"Well then! That solves some of our problems I suppose. To be completely honest I agree that avoiding such politics may be good for our long-term health," Petra chuckles. "In the meantime, I suppose we might as well share our current project..." she pauses and Ivan fills in the lapse.
"As I'm sure you know most princes gain in power by consuming humans. By, well, mass murder," he says.
"Horrifying," Mia comments. The others nod.
"And to be honest," Ivan continues, "we're running up against the limits of what we can do with modern electronics. We've been working on magical computation circuits, but progress there is slow. However, we've come upon a method for creating self-replicating technology which allows us to integrate computational systems into existing infrastructure, expanding computing capabilities without having to resort to anything more... well... barbaric."
"It's a stopgap solution," Petra says, "Eventually we will run out of physical space to expand into, but, well, we need the compute to solve some of the trickier problems magic. I'm not sure if you're familiar, but this is in collaboration with the Clockwork Kings, to an extent."
"In the long run, we're hoping to wean the princes off of uh, human resources. Find a bit more sustainable power source. Something far away, maybe, like dark matter." He laughs.
"Although politics may be another route we can take," Mia comments. "The others find it a bit distasteful, but still, if we can limit consumption to the dying-"
"No," Petra cut in. "We've discussed this and it's untenable. There has to be another way."
They turned to Becker. "I don't suppose you have any ideas?" Ivan says.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Joy Spiders


The diver is met by dozens of spiders in varying sizes who chitter a chorus of replies, "Why certainly we could make what you wish. Though sadly my brood is still growing. So I cannot garantuee a sufficient quantity to outfit all your followers. The quality will not be matched however."

(OOC: So do you want cultist military?)


The spiders shrug, "A terrible business. The Pontifex's position is for the City to decide not the Senate. If it no longer wished for the Queen's services it would easily be able to choose another. Attempting to forcibly remove her will only lead to tears."

[Pahvimato]

Velibor

Players

The Tsarwood is the only territory I consider to be mine. As to my enemies, the only current one is the Mirror Queen. Do not aid it, do not assist it. As to the goal, it simply is to force her to resign from the position of Pontifex. I do not have more demands than that regarding her.

I am perfectly happy to extend it to some of your allies as well, if you would name them. I would also like to have a list similar to mine from you - and any of those allies of yours - as well. Is the length acceptable? Contract stays in place until the next praetor is elected. At that point, if we wish, we can sign another.



I've talked to Ophois, and we've come to an agreement to stay out of each others way. You should know that Kasdeveris has also privately expressed his interest on becoming mayor to me before, in case you did not already know this. Since the Queen has refused to resign, would perhaps be for the best if this discussion takes place the next month. We'll know better what you need and what I can give you. For now, however, I'll stay out of your territory. You should also know that I am, indeed, interested in your eatery plan, and we should discuss it further in the future.

NPCs

I may very well give you the Tsarwood. In return for something, of course. I do not wish others to enter my woods. If they do, inform me of the incident. And, if you consider yourselves strong enough, strike them down. Do that, and you can hunt within the Tsarwood.

If you want more than that, there's little I can't provide. Assist me against the Mirror Queen, and name your price for doing so.