Total War Hanrui 3: The Final Hanrui IC

[St. Justicar]

The Clockwork Republic

Morale 5

Spoiler: Clan Beam

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Spoiler: OOC

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Oh, you don't need to make the route a second time, I don't believe - once a route is charted it persists unless someone/thing does something to destroy it (random event/artifact/magic or adventurer action by one nation or another, IIRC)

1-2 and your full esp stat with VIP is perfectly acceptable. You'll get the point of ECON in my EOT and the use of my soldiers next turn/as soon as I'm at peace, if at war before then.

[neriractor]

Clan Baem

Morale: 2

Spoiler: The Clockwork republic

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Spoiler: OOC

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Aye, that was supposed to be an euphemism

1-2, -3 with VIP first turn, and full numbers with VIP second turn if you do still need the trade.

Spoiler: Mid turn (DM)

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despite the evidence of easy treasure in the Syren's hideout, family ties and a sudden wish from Dae Baem to stay away from the water mean that 3 adventurers and Dae Baem are sent to clear 4 rooms from familiar falls' with Dae clearing and rolling twice on room [roll]1d4[/roll]

3 adventurers will be sent to chart a route between the clockwork republic's capital of 3 and Clan Baem's capital of 49, info on this route will be shared with the clockwork republic and only with them.

And because no one decided to bribe them in any way Clan Baem will vote for the economy proposal with their three votes, whatever it was.

[St. Justicar]

The Clockwork Republic

Morale 5

Spoiler: Clan Beam

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Spoiler: OOC

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Oh, sorry, my misunderstanding. I thought you had a preference to have the cost of establishing the route mostly out of the magic, not the espionage. Happy to do esp-3 the first turn to make up for the cost of establishing the route the first turn, but in that case would want 3-2 for the future expansion. 2-2, since you're including the VIP, maybe.

Spoiler: Midturn

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Encyclopediest Hayy and 1 Adv will go into the Hollow Peak, clearing two floor.

2 Adv will be used in conjunction with 1 from the Valence Lodge to chart a trading route acrosss the far eastern seas between our territories

Voting NAY to the war subsidies motion with my 4 votes

[Lord Athos]

The Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: To the Crystalheart Covenant (Mor=4)

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To the most esteemed Crystalheart Covenant,

welcome to Hanrui, the land of false prophecy.
A humble servant of Our Burning Saviour, I, Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, write to you as representative of the Silverhammer Protectorate.

We have been here, when Hanrui rose out of the waves in ages past, and we know what follows.

Your people are survivors too, we are told. We are told you have been led by a Diamond-Scaled Dragon. You have been truly blessed with such a divine guardian, and we mourn that they are no longer with us in the flesh, but believe they are in spirit, and strength.
Know that we have a draconic Guardian as well, Holy Pyresoul, that resides besides Our Burning Saviour and holds His sword.

Know that war will come to Hanrui, as it has always come before in this cycle of destruction. Many have thought they could stop it, end the cycle, and survive, but in the end, they failed. It is the land of false prophecy, and in the end, it will bring death.

There are hard times ahead of us. As you have been blessed, we would rather stand together, than divided. We suggest opening trading relations as a start to our cooperation.

Glory to the Flame,
Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, Representative of the Cult of Our Burning Saviour and the Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: To the Celestial Empire of Longshan (Mor 4)

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To the Keeper of foreign affairs of the Celestial Empire of Longshan,

welcome to Hanrui, the land of false prophecy.
A humble servant of Our Burning Saviour, I, Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, write to you as representative of the Silverhammer Protectorate.

We have been here, when Hanrui rose out of the waves in ages past, and we know what follows.

Your people bring strength into these lands, which we respect. Your people bring law and structure, which we respect. Such things please Our Burning Saviour.

Know that war will come to Hanrui, as it has always come before in this cycle of destruction. Many have thought they could stop it, but in the end, they failed. It is the land of false prophecy, and in the end, it will bring death.

There are hard times ahead of us. We believe you have the strength to see it through to the end, and we believe it to bring strength to all of us if our continent faces the storm together, instead of divided. We suggest opening trading relations as a start to our cooperation.

Glory to the Flame,
Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, Representative of the Cult of Our Burning Saviour and the Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: To the Legion of Balance (Mor 4)

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To the Legion of Balance,

In ancient times, you stood before the Walls of the Silverhammer Dwarves as revenge for the purge of an unholy infection that would have consumed all of Hanrui had it not been stopped.

What are your intentions these days?

Glory to the Flame,
Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, Representative of the Cult of Our Burning Saviour and the Silverhammer Protectorate

[n0ble]

The Valence Lodge

Morale 4

Spoiler: The Clockwork Republic

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Esteemed Logicians of the Clockwork Republic,

We of the Lodge find this agreeable. Such a premium on military goods as your interested is easily done. We look forward to our ships making way to your shores.

Massimo de Leuteum, Sole Guildbreaker to House de Leuteum

Spoiler: OOC

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All sounds good to me. 3 econ for 5 mil is totally good with me if your footing the greater parter of the Adv. bill. If nobody wants to buy them, will vote YAY on economic proposal fielded by the Khalos guild.

Spoiler: The Legion of Balance

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A most measured response. Naturally, we await the same.

Regards,
M. de Leuteum

Spoiler: Midturn

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Malcolm J. Blackstock, Quartermaster to the Empty Flasks (Lvl. 1 Adventurer VIP), will lead 3 points of adventurers into the Yellow Forest. May all Hanrui have mercy on their souls.
1 point of Valence Lodge Adventurers will be used in concert with the 2 Adv. from the Clockwork Republic to establish trade routes between the two nations.
Valence Lodge votes to support the war measures bill. 5 votes (3 Rep+2 Mor)

[Let'sGetKraken]

The Four Courts of Hanrui

All messages MOR 4

Spoiler: To the Valence Lodge

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Ah, fickleness. The unpredictability of predictability. Each court is predictable in its unpredictability. Winter, Summer, Autumn, Spring, all patterns. Patterns we weave. Patterns we dance. Patterns we live, and live, and live, and live.

No offense was intended. Excitement. The Valence Lodge is interesting. Beautiful puzzle. Magic, but not magic. Human arts, mortal arts, to rival our own. Collaboration. Cooperation. Interest.

Gleeful watching. Gleeful waiting. We will be here, in the woods, should you wish it. Our eye watches, vigilant, but not threatening.

Spoiler: OOC

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Came across as more hostile than I intended, just wanted to open up dialogue with my other neighbor. Not looking for anything in particular, but open to possible collaboration or cooperation in the future. How do you feel about a non-aggression pact, and discussions for how to split up the continent?

Spoiler: To the Red Aurora Court

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All of Hanrui is a stage. All of us move to strings. Stings visible. Strings invisible. No offense was intended.

Our support is yours. Autumn will assist. Spring will fall in line. Debts accumulate. Debts to be paid. Time shapes, time chooses. We choose. Do not waste this gift.

It is signed “Duke of Frigid Serenity”.

Spoiler: To the Khalos Guild

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The comparison is indeed not a flattering one, but we understand the sentiment. Of course, we at the Spring Court are not dissatisfied that you reached out to us! The contrary, in fact. The Autumn Court cannot be trusted. Still, you would have been equally well-suited for trade with them, I think. They have a certain mindset – ever grasping towards more wealth – that would have matched your Trading Company.

Keep us in mind should you require anything.

It is signed “The Knight of the Glorious Pilgramage”

Spoiler: To the Crystalheart Covenant

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Hanrui a grand game. Thousands of moves, thousands of battles, victories small and large. You may blind yourself to the outside world, but it will not blind itself to you. The Spring and Winter Courts await your messengers, should you look outward, and should you have need.

Spoiler: To GM - Midturn

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ADV 3 sent into the Grave of Lights. 6 votes in favour of War Footing.

[GameOfChampions]

Midturn 1

World Congress
Public

Spoiler: Expansion Proposal

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The World Congress has tallied the votes from the member nations of Hanrui and find that the nations voted;
27 Aye
24 Nay

The Proposal has passed. Supplies, Mercenaries, Contacts, and more shall be supplied to the member nations.

Spoiler: OOC

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All Expansion costs this turn are one less for both the Attrition and No Attrition rates. Invasions of other Faction territories count as 1 higher and ties go to attackers.

Spoiler: Fund Raising

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The World Congress has tallied the votes from the member nations of Hanrui and find that the nations voted;
12 Aye
3 Nay

The Proposal has passed. The World Congress shall grant a greater weight to the monetary bids for proposals.

Spoiler: OOC

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Every point of Econ sent to bid on a proposal this EoT will count as 2.

Legion of Balance
Mor 6

Spoiler: Results

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The Legion sent 1 Adv into the Minotaur's Lair and cleared 1 Floor. They came out with a rare set of bones ((+) temp Mag).

Khanate
Mor 5

Spoiler: Results

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Route is forged between 13 and 8.

Elda Háfnar
Mor 4

Spoiler: Results

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The Elda Háfnar sent Skadia (Tier 2 Adv VIP), 4 MIL, and 6 ADV to the Drowned Bowels and cleared 10 Floors. They came out with rare and magical sailing manuals (8xp for Skadia), a chest load of rare Amber ((+++) temp Econ), a large amount of rare magical plants from the sea floor ((++++) temp Mag), and a rare powerfully magical green veiny egg that seems to radiate a powerful hunger (1/3 for the Ravenous Hunger Artifact). During the excursion a powerful armored Trilobite feasting on the remains is startled and flees through the direction of the adventurers, crushing part of Skadias hull. Injured VIP for 1 turn, Lesser Monster Unleashed.

The Fae
Mor 4

Spoiler: Results

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The Fae sent 3 Adv into the Grave of Lights and cleared 3 Floors. They came out with a rare glowing herb ((+) temp Mag), a long forgotten ruby ((+) temp Eco), and a long dead adventurers belongings ((+) temp Adv).

The Valance Lodge
Mor 4

Spoiler: Results

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The Lodge sent Malcolm J. Blackstock (Tier 1 Adv VIP) and 3 Adv into The Yellow Forest and cleared 4 Floors. They came out with a long forgotten crystal recording of a being called The Last Light from old Hanrui ((++++) temp Rep), and a series of powerful herbs to strengthen the body and mind (8xp for Malcom).

Malcom becomes Tier 2 VIP. Route is forged between 3 and 69

The Clockwork Republic
Mor 5

Spoiler: Results

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The Republic sent Encyclopediest Hayy and 1 Adv into The Hollow Peak and cleared 2 Floors. They came out with a rare magicite ore ((++) temp Mag), and a small vein of silver ((+) temp Eco).

Route is forged between 3 and 69

Khalos Guild
Mor 4

Spoiler: Results

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The Guild sent Khalos (Tier 5 Adv VIP), and 5 ADV to the Lake of Blood and cleared 10 Floors. They came out with a glorious ancient head dress with ancient carvings of the end of the world (+1 Rep Item), a small amount of Blood Rubies ((++) temp Econ), a large amount of rare magical plants from the lakebed ((+++) temp Mag), you find a rare and beautiful statue of a glorious winged being with a sword in hand ((++) temp Rep), finally they slew a powerful blood golem wielding a powerful flaming spear with motifs of a flaming savior carved on the side (+2 Mil Item). A small group of carnivorous fish were startled by the powerful Hydra and fled through the group, killing a few weaker adventurers and making them drop their loot. Lose 2 Adv and no loot on 1 basic floor.

The Crystalheart Covenant
Mor 8

Spoiler: Results

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The Covenant sent Taleah Camallo (Tier 2 Adv VIP) and 3 adventurers into Corundynir's Lair and cleared 5 Floors. They also sent 2 Adv into the Blackweald Towers and cleared 2 Floors. They all came out with a rare magical reagents ((++) temp Mag), several small chests of gold and crystal ((++++) temp Eco), and a long dead adventurers belongings ((++) temp Adv). The adventurers unwittenly stumbled into a young dragons lair, startling it out into the open to prey on your land. Lesser Monster unleashed.

Red Aurora College
Mor 4

Spoiler: Results

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The College sent Zander (Tier 1 Adv VIP), 3 adventurers, and 2 espionage into The Infested Mine and cleared 5 Floors. They came out with a rare magicite ore ((+++) temp Mag), and find a dead adventuring party with several journals and records (8xp for Zander). Unfortunately on the way out they triggered a trap they hadn't seen, the entrance starts to collapse and though they all make it out the entrance needs to be cleared. Dungeon Locked for 1 Round.

Zander becomes Tier 2 VIP.

Silverhammer Protectorate
Mor 4

Spoiler: Results

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The Protectorate sent Ashenblade(Tier 1 Adv VIP) and 3 Adv into The Caverns of Shame and cleared 4 Floors. They came out with a rare magicite ore ((++) temp Mag), a glorious historical text depicting the religious groups of ancient Hanrui ((++) temp Rep), and find a dead adventuring party with several journals and records (8xp for Ashenblade).

Ashenblade becomes Tier 2 VIP.

Holy Phanos
Mor 8

Spoiler: Results

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Phanos sent 2 Adv into the Prism Caves and cleared 2 Floors. They came out with a set of rare crystals ((+) temp Econ), and the remnants of old adventurers ((++) Temp Adv).

Clan Baem
Mor 2

Spoiler: Results

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Clan Baem sent Dae Baem (Tier 1 Adv VIP), and 3 Adv into the Familiar Falls and cleared 4 Floors. They came out with a small chest of gold ((+++) temp Econ), a set of physique boosting herbs (4xp for Dae), and the remnants of an old adventurer ((+) Temp Adv).

Route forged between 49 and 3.

@Everyone
EoT due Wed Nov 4th at Midnight EST time

[DragonOfAsh]

CRYSTALHEART COVENANT

Grandmaster Isla Moray was out walking the streets this time, standing amidst the district of Port Adamis that had been effectively taken over by the Gemwrights of the Amethyst Forge. Among their number there was only one that she was searching for and she found the minotaur hard at work at the forge. Like many other in his caste, Ricarr liked to keep himself busy, though she knew his was a drive for perfection. She remembered the ceremony where Ricarr's affinities had been discovered. Two was typical of the average member of the Amethyst Forge, but Ricarr had always been special. Touching the crystal it had shimmered with fire, earth, and lightning all together. He'd since proven to be perhaps the most skilled Gemwright the Covenant had ever seen.

"Ricarr, we have a proposal." The minotaur made no move to acknowledge the grandmaster, hammering for several more minutes before he quenched the sword he was working into a nearby barrel of water and moving over, sweat dripping down his hide. He did not speak, as Isla held out a scroll of parchment that Ricarr opened on the spot, his eyes scanning over its contents. "Can you do it?"

"Can I?" Ricarr snorted as if he was allergic to the question, then turned back towards the forge. Taking the quenched, half-finished blade and tossing it into a barrel of scrap. "Materials are coming?"

The nereid nodded. "We're about to make a push to expand our borders, if you work can save us the trouble released from Corundynir's Lair, than you have full access to every scrap of material the Covenant can put in your hands." Ricarr grunted. He was even less of a conversationalist than Isla was, but he worked no less hard. Isla would even venture to say a whole lot harder than anyone else, such was the duty of the Amethyst Forge. Seeing him already working on the project, she turned to leave. Her business here was done.

---

Morale 8

Spoiler: To the Silverhammer Protectorate

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To the Silverhammer Protectorate,

We appreciate your words of caution surrounding this land and its inherent dangers. Wandering through centuries, we have known danger all too well and have not lost our sense of caution since we made landfall. The land if foreign and alien to us, but we will persevere. We are, as you say survivors.

Our guardian and leader Corundynir may no longer be with us in the flesh, but his spirit lives on in each and every person who partakes of our Covenant, his magic flows through our veins. If war must come we will use that power to defend ourselves for this is our rightful home. Whether it is a land of false prophecy or not is irrelevant. We are meant to be here.

We will accept your offer to trade with due caution. We are no strangers to being taken advantage of, and what is offered freely can be retracted just as freely.

Corundynir's will be done,
Grandmaster Isla Moray, speaker on behalf of the Circle of Elements

[Writtensanity]

Spoiler: To the Court of Spring MOR 4

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Good tidings from this season. We have come across some magically charged items that we have little need for. We could additionally commit our Magic to a trade.

The Khalos guild is searching for political clout or military might this season.

May the winds be fair.

Grand Warlock Hadful

OoC: I found temp mag. Interested?

Spoiler: To the Valence Lodge MOR 4

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Good tidings from this season. We have come across some magically charged items that we have little need for. We could additionally commit our Magic to a trade.

The Khalos guild is searching for political clout or military might this season.

To progress: Lysa, Mouth of Khalos

OOC: I found magic. Interested?

Spoiler: To the Legion of Balance MOR 4

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We have finished adventuring for the season and have come across some powerful options for interested parties. A grand headdress and weapon are available if you're interested.

We hope that such a trade would bolster us toward a proper partnership.

OOC: The two items are up for trade should the Legion want them.

Spoiler: To the Farthest Fleet MOR 4

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The Guild is surprised that we are sending this message but buyers shouldn't be ignored.

Our recent dungeon delving has proven very fruitful, a powerful weapon that you could use to unite the Isles. Let us know how much you are willing to pay for the power.

Details attached,

Opha, Mouth of Khalos

OOC: I have a +2 Mil artifact. Interested in shopping?

Spoiler: To the Courts, the Legion of Balance and the Halflings MOR 4

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Greetings those of highest repute on Hanrui. The world congress this season has been fruitful and we shall be putting forward our proposal to bolster the talent of the common folk on Hanrui.

The Guild approaches because the combined forces of our political clout how significant sway over the land of Hanrui and what treaties shall pass. Rather than squabble, it’s much more effective for us to ensure a collaborative result.

Notably, we are short of a controlling majority, so the Guild requests recommendations about the best... less reputable nations to add to our conglomerate, should we agree on forming one as far as the World Congress is concerned.

Lysa, Mouth of Khalos, direct translation from Arene.

Spoiler: To the Clockwork Republic MOR 4

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Though you have signed a treaty, the Republic has large forces on either side. On these fronts we’d prefer to see you triumph over the Khalinate or the Zealots.

The Khalos guild has found a powerful weapon that would help with your expansion and defence. If you’re interested, you’re our preferred buyer on your continent.

Talrand, Mouth of Khalos

OOC: I have a +2 mil item, might help you stop the Centaurs. Interested in buying?

[St. Justicar]

The Clockwork Republic

Morale 5

Coordinator did not, it sometimes seemed, ever move from her desk. Which was impossible, of course – if nothing else, the bottle next to her changed daily. Still, with Hira off signing treaties, Hayy dealing with magicite smoking witch-doctors and Cahit having vanished into his lab, it was reassuring to the Strategist that there was someone to keep things on the right track once he headed south with the fleet.

That still didn’t make him particularly happy about getting dragged away from a planning session to talk with the accountant.

“Is something wrong, Nese? Some attack? Assassination? Pirates run off with our budget?”
“No, no, n-well, yes, but it’s a pretty good deal, really. You should probably introduce yourself at some point. It’s an opportunity. We got an offer.”
“The horses? Did the nephilim decide to reach out again?”
“Neither. It’s an excellent offer, but I’m running out of things to sell. So – do you really need those marines you’ve picked out for your sight-seeing tour?”
“I’m supposed to just go from bandit camp to hill fort and batter them down with my bare hands, I suppose? Stare the chiefs into submission?”
“You should really see the offer.”
“If you’re going to downsize the pacification effort into nonexistence, you’re going to have to find one of the others and call a quorum to vote on it, I’m not meekly volunteering. If there’s nothing else?”
“Fine. Until next time, Strategist.”
“Likewise, Coordinator.”

Alone, Nese and finished her drink. And then turned to the volumes upon volumes of accounting and tax documents that grew like mould in the Republic’s centres of power. What do we have left to sell

Spoiler: Khalos Trade Guild

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To Talrand, Mouth of Khalos,

Your offer’s very much appreciated, but I’m afraid this late in the season liquid cash is a bit thin on the ground. The only resources we have left this season are a bit more immaterial, though given your employer’s interest in diplomacy maybe they’d get some use out of them. The full diplomatic weight of the Esheri Republic, such as it is, and the expertise of our social engineers and administrators for internal governance and mobilization.

If that’s not enough, I’d be willing to discuss a cash payment of the balance next year once the funds free up, depending on what you’re asking for.

We’d be able to provide shipping and transport gratis, at least.

-Coordinator Nese, Ranking Member of the Committee of Industry and Progress (Hanrui)

[OOC: 5 Mor, 2 Rep, already planning a trade route to your continent so will cover the adventure cost of that]

[Lord Athos]

The Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: To the Red Aurora College (Mor 4 )

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To the esteemed Red Aurora College,

welcome to Hanrui, the land of false prophecy.
A humble servant of Our Burning Saviour, I, Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, write to you as representative of the Silverhammer Protectorate.

We have been here, when Hanrui rose out of the waves in ages past, and we know what follows.

We understand your people have come to these cursed lands as scholars and traders, first and foremost.

Know that war will come to Hanrui, as it has always come before in this cycle of destruction. Many have thought they could stop it, but in the end, they failed. It is the land of false prophecy, and in the end, it will bring death.

There are hard times ahead of us. We wish you good fortune in your pursuit of knowledge. As the Faithful of our Burning Saviour do have some magical knowledge of divine nature, we might be able to cooperate in this regard in the future. Call on us if you have a trade in mind.

Glory to the Flame,
Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, Representative of the Cult of Our Burning Saviour and the Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: To Phanos, Land of the Chosen of Yurian (Mor 4 )

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In the halls of the Nephilim, a group of six men arrived, smaller even than humans, the Nephilim towering over them even more than over their usual visitors. Still, the visitors had the look of battle-hardened warriors; they were heavily armed and wore grey cloaks and silver breastplates of Mithril, which were engraved with the symbol of a hammer.
Once led to a representative of Phanos, one of the dwarves handed them a letter.

Spoiler: Message

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To the Keeper of foreign affairs of Phanos,

welcome to Hanrui, the land of false prophecy.
A humble servant of Our Burning Saviour, I, Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, write to you as representative of the Silverhammer Protectorate.

We have been here, when Hanrui rose out of the waves in ages past, and we know what follows.

We have heard of your god, Yurian, and know Our Burning Saviour yet approves of his teachings from what we have heard.

Know that war will come to Hanrui, as it has always come before in this cycle of destruction. Many have thought they could stop it, but in the end, they failed. It is the land of false prophecy, and in the end, it will bring death.

There are hard times ahead of us. As we respect your ways, we suggest opening trading relations as a start to our cooperation, for we believe it might be advantageous to both our people.

Glory to the Flame,
Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, Representative of the Cult of Our Burning Saviour and the Silverhammer Protectorate

"There is something else you should know." One of the Dwarven rangers stated calmly. "Our orders are to provide assistance to Phanos while in your territory. We have spotted centaurs in the mountains to the north. Scores of them. We believe they are looking for paths through the mountains useable for a large force. It is likely that the Khanate is planning to ride against you. You might to secure your northern borders.(13)" the undead dwarf nodded slightly, and solemnly.

Spoiler: To the Khalos Guild (Mor 4)

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To the esteemed Representatives of the Khalos Guild,

It has come to our attention that you have recently come into possession of a spear infused with the divine blessing of Our God, Our Burning Saviour. We assume it is hardly surprising to you that we wish to obtain it, and we would be grateful for your help.
Name your price.
May it be the beginning of profitable business.

Glory to the Flame,
Lord Protector Halgeir Silverhammer of the Silverhammer Protectorate

[n0ble]

Morale 4

Spoiler: Khalos Trade Guild

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Ancient Guild,
Indeed, we would be most agreeable to such trades as the one you are proposing. The Forest has provided us with the recordings of a rather enlightened being. I believe fair exchange might be found in them for any herbs or rare specimens your Guildmaster has exhumed. In addition: the Fey have spoken with regards to as to the equitable dissection of this landmass. We of the Lodge would speak on this sooner rather than later, and include the Legion of Balance in the proceedings for their words hold merit.

M. de Leuteum

Spoiler: OOC

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I got rep to trade for magic, can do an equal trade if you want.

[Writtensanity]

Spoiler: To the Clockwork Republic MOR 4

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We at the Guild know the sorrowful feeling of stumbling upon something you desire at the end of a long day of spending at the market. A light coinpurse feels heavy at that moment.

Unfortunately, the Guild is looking to entertain offers that are quite a bit higher than that. One of these items will triple the power of an already extraordinary warrior, so some greatly desire it; in the worst case, one can always start to enjoy their own wares.

We appreciate your prompt reply,

Lysa, Mouth of Khalos

OOC: This thing is a buff that is pretty much 30 points invested into a VIP. I'm not expecting that number, but it does need to be higher.

Spoiler: The Valence Lodge MOR 4

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That would be agreeable. From our understanding, your company has the equivalent of 3 REP. We can prepare the MAG right away for use during this season. If there is a larger number we were unaware of, update us, and we can send the appropriate amount.

OOC: Deal.

Spoiler: To the Silverhammer MOR 4

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Perhaps we shouldn't be surprised that word reached you; after all, all merchants do is talk for a living.

Considering the power of the weapon, we have reached out to several nations to gauge interest. At the moment, we are seeking to acquire quite a hefty sum for something powerful enough to even embolden Khalos themself.

Our current asking price is [20 Stats] though this could be paid over two seasons. We would hate to see the weapon go unused until we find a proper wielder within our borders, but we are also willing to keep the item if the price isn't right.

We appreciate your interest and hope to hear positive from you soon,

Dio, 2nd Head of Khalos.

[n0ble]

Morale 4

Spoiler: Khalos Trade Guild

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Ancient Guild,

You are well informed, yet we have further influences to purchase should it suit your quintessence of interests.

M. de Leuteum

Spoiler: OOC

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Cool. I have 3 rep to give you for 3 magic. also picked up 4 temp rep from adventuring, willing to trade that for magic and/any econ you want to round it out with if acquiring the magic is a problem.

[Writtensanity]

Spoiler: To the Valance Lodge MOR 4

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As it happens, most of our magical prowess this season is from adventuring as well. Our entire supply would need to be somewhat bolstered by direct gold to match the items you mention.

OOC: 5 MAG (3 are temp) and 2 ECO work for you for the 7 REP?

[n0ble]

Morale 4

Spoiler: Khalos Trade Guild

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Ancient Guild,

This is most amenable to we of the Lodge. Gratitudes conveyed to you for such an agreeable proposal.

Spoiler: OOC

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Sounds rad to me.

[St. Justicar]

The Clockwork Republic

Morale 5

Spoiler: Khalos Trade Guild

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Lysa,

I’m afraid we seem to have dramatically different ideas of how valuable a spear your master dug out of the swamp is. I’m not able to sweeten this pot much, but if delivered this year I can offer the continued services of our expert or a cash payment in the next. But you’ll have to find another buyer to offer anything near the price quotes. Perhaps the undead will take you up on it, if it’s of such cultic significance to them.

-Coordinator Nese, Ranking Member of the Committee of Industry and Progress (Hanrui)

(Same offer, I’ll offer you 3 econ or 5 mor next turn as well. I really can’t do better than that for two stat points)

[Lord Athos]

The Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: To the Khalos Guild (Mor 4)

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To the esteemed Dio, 2nd Head of Khalos.

We consider this a fair price for an artifact of this holiness. We will pay your price, and we take you up on your offer to meet it in two seasons time.
Expect our trade expedition soon. I assume you trust my word enough for a delivery of the Spear this season, so we may make use for it already.

Glory to the Flame, and to mutual advancement,
Lord Protector Halgeir Silverhammer of the Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: OOC:

Show

Right, so you didn't specify what stats you were interested in, so I suppose everything is fair game. In that case, I'll part with 4 Mag, 5 Rep and 1 Eco for a first payment. If there's something you're absolutely not interested in, I can still switch some stats around, just hit me up.

[Writtensanity]

Spoiler: To the Silverhammer MOr 4

Show

You are correct that we didn't specify a specific need value type for the weapon, we will make use of anything you send our way.

The Weapon will be sent back with your delegation.

Khalos Guild,

[GameOfChampions]

Legion of Balance
Mor 6

Spoiler: Silverhammer Protectorate

Show

Greetings Dwarves,

We hold no grudges from the ancient times, what may have brought balance then would not necessarily bring balance now.

That does not mean we won't be watching to see what you do with this second chance at life.

Spoiler: Khalos Guild

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Greetings Mighty Khalos,

We thank you for your offers, we have no interest in the weapon but may be wiling to take the Headress off your hands. We would offer you the fruits of our lands this season and the aid of some of our clerics and ancient magics.

We are interested in your desire for a large alliance of interests but the Legion does not take part in the World Congress by ancient compact with them. Our organization is too massive and spans too far. The closest we come in lending our influence and name to those we deem worthy which carries a heavy weight with the Congress.

OOC: 3 Eco, 3 Mag for the +1 Rep item.

[A_Dinosaur]

The Red Aurora College

Morale 4

The Silver Hammer Protectorate

Spoiler

Show

Archon Avender,
Our thanks for the welcome, may we both find success in this strange and historied land. I am unsure of what false prophecies you refer to, but I know the warlike history of this place, and I have come prepared to protect my students if necessary. Your warning is nonetheless appreciated.

Regarding trade, I will certainly keep your offer in mind. It may be some time before our foothold is well enough established here in Hanrui to consider large scale trading, but we are considering establishing several trade routes next year. Would the Silverhammer be interested in being a friendly port for our ships on Kyrsull?

Best Regards,
77 - The Phoenix Voice

The Fae Courts
To the Duke of Frigid Serenity,

Spoiler

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Good Duke,

The rehearsal must last a little longer, our proposal will not happen this year. Will you hold our tribute in trust until our proposal graces the floor of world congress?

Best Regards,
77 - The Phoenix Voice

The Clockwork Republic

Spoiler

Show

Esteemed Cahit,
Thank you for your support in the World Congress debate. Alas our proposal will have to wait, I hope you might still support it in the coming years when we do bring it to the floor.

Best Regards,
77 - The Phoenix Voice

The Khalos Guild

Spoiler

Show

Guildsmen of Khalos,
We are interested in making a business with your guild. Given the pass of the Warfooting proposal our College finds itself in need of a small force of mercenaries. Would the Khalos Guild be willing to trade [1 eco] for [1 mil] for the year?

Best Regards,
77 - The Phoenix Voice

[Lord Athos]

The Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: To the Red Aurora College (Mor 4 )

Show

To the esteemed Phoenix Voice,

there are many prophecies, omens and divine imperatives concerning the lands of Hanrui, not only of our people, but of many others. They have all proved false, in a way.

Know that your trading vessels will be welcome in the ports of the Silverhammer Protectorate.

Glory to the Flame,
Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, Representative of the Cult of Our Burning Saviour and the Silverhammer Protectorate

Spoiler: To the Crystalheart Covenant (Mor 4 )

Show

To the esteemed Grandmaster Isla Moray, speaker on behalf of the Circle of Elements,

Know that we appreciate your directness and honesty. Let us return the favour.
Know that we will soon be bordering each other. We are planning on taking the land to the northeast of our territory (34), and we therefore suggest you expand to the vast lands to your east. In this way, our people will both have enough space to grow and prosper.
Approach us if you have interest in trade, as we will do the same.

Glory to the Flame,
Archon Avendor of House Eith'erant, Representative of the Cult of Our Burning Saviour and the Silverhammer Protectorate

[n0ble]

Morale 4

Spoiler: Phoenix College

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Glad Tidings Upon our Fellow Scholarly Instituition,

We hope this missive finds you hale. There is much to discuss re: the education of respective Branches of learning. We of the Lodge are would ask for your input in a key process: economic stability for Hanrui. Moreover, should this interest you our Guildbreaker is more than willing to discuss options for a comprehensive education program amongst Hanrui's populace. We have celerity and wakefulness tonics to aid in not just increased study times, but ensure that such time is spent fully immersed in learning without tonics. We would not contribute further to extant drug abuse on campus-the Lodge values academic honesty almost as much as physiological truisms. To that end, we are prepared to supply your College with school supplies for the coming terms of study-up to and including quills, ink, parchment and any reagents you may require for what passes as alchymical practice in your classrooms. I believe our rates for such products are more than reasonable. Finally, We of the Lodge would like to convey our Archymist's willingness to teach a seminar on Alchymical Practice in the Lab come next College term-contingent on the signing of a contract containing an agreed upon sum.

Optimal Regards,
M. de Leuteum

Spoiler: OOC

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Figured the similarity of our factions at least meant we should touch base re the trade of magical goods. Nobody seems to wana talk to my ambassador as of next turn yet. If your interested I can keep him free if trade is something you would like to discuss more.

Spoiler: Silverhammer Protectorate

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Ancient Faith of the Flames and Pyre,

Given your faiths predilection for things of an incendiary nature, you are no doubt you are familiar with the rites of succession inherent to nature, and the role flame would play in it. Should you find the dichotomies of our respective faiths inoffensive, we would be more than willing to aid you in the germination and gestation of fortunes amongst your people come the next season. Further, we find your resilience in the face of the myriad entropies that confronted your people to be an incredible act of durance, one that should be laudable as a standard for all Hanrui to achieve. While we would never stoop to insult you by suggesting aid in such a manner, our Anatomist have noted several tonics that may interact with the necrotic portions of your populace's flesh, to say nothing of our sappers experiments with the white flame and what it might mean for the militancy of your faith. Please inform us if any of these products are congruent with your values as a faith and we will make all haste to convey them towards you.

Glory to your Flame,
M. de Leutuem

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Trying to avoid provoking the Vulture-men and their legacy for what? The third time in row? (and in as many Hanrui games too ) Would probs take 4 to establish a trade route between us, but I'm willing to meet you halfway if trade is something that interests you.

Spoiler: Legion of Balance

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Esteemed and Venerable Legion,

As ever, We of the Lodge engage in brevity. There are but four nations that call this continent of Jhalalkraun their homeland. We of the Lodge would convey our concerns to you about a...worry that has gestated amongst us. While four is an evenly divisible number, partition-able by halves and quarters, five is not. At least not in a way that we would find satisfactory. Given the...nature of what traverses the seas, We of the Lodge should like to confer with you in the coming season on how to best prepare for such an eventuality of imbalance.

With all Respect conferred,
M. de Leuteum

Spoiler: OOC

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4 is a nice even number right? RIGHT?!

Spoiler: The Fey of the Four Courts

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Indeed, We of the Lodge believe there is much to discuss re: the partitioning of this landmass. For now we confine our experimentations to the Northeast, and are amenable to enforcing an accord towards adherence of these borders. To facilitate discussion between We of the Lodge and your tetrarchy is to acknowledge that we are not the only powers that would contest these grounds. Thus far the Khalos Guild and the Legion of Balance have proven themselves more than reasonable in their dealings this...season past. We would see them stand as equals in division. An alliance may afford this land a modicum of synergy, one sufficiently potent to combat the apex predators amidst this petri dishes waters.

M. de Leuteum

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Yo. We should discuss how to divide things up amongst us, thats fair. However, I think the discussion should involve the Trade Guild and the Legion as well. For my part I was thinking of largely keeping to the Northeast, but can provide more details if you have a VIP free to chat. Feel like shoring up the uh, shoreline might be a good opening play.

[St. Justicar]

The Clockwork Republic

Morale 5

Spoiler: Khalos Trade Guild

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I’m glad you were able to find a buyer for your relic – and I do mean that sincerely. Please do reach out with any similar finds you make in the future. I expect our budget to grow considerably in the coming years.

-Coordinator Nese, Ranking Member of the Committee of Industry and Progress (Hanrui)

Spoiler: Valence Lodge

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Massimo de Leuteum

As per our agreement, an account in your name has been opened at the 1st Progressive Bank, and three hundred thousand Virtues deposited in it. Our embassy to De Leuteum Manor will include a merchant factor to convert the cash into what hard goods you require, to be shipped in over the next few months.

Personally, I’m really looking forward to seeing how many natives run screaming when your troops start disembarking in Symponia.

Looking forward to more business in the future,
-Coordinator Nese, Ranking Member of the Committee of Industry and Progress (Hanrui)
(OOC: EOT sent, trade locked in, 3 temp econ is yours)

Spoiler: Clan Baem

Show

As per our agreement, the merchant vessel Sculpane has been commissioned on an indefinite basis to deliver a quarterly subsidy to Idol’s End, consisting of textiles, trade goods, and specie, totalling to a value of one hundred thousand Virtues p.a. Given he’ll be in Symponia anyway, ownership papers for the ship will be given to Chin-Hae Baem at the conclusion of his work for us this year.

Assuming the giants keep their word, an expeditionary force will be placed at your disposal over the next year.

Looking forward to more business in the future,
-Coordinator Nese, Ranking Member of the Committee of Industry and Progress (Hanrui)

(OOC: EOT sent, trade locked in, permanent econ is yours)

Spoiler: Red Aurora College

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77 – The Phoenix Voice,

Of course. Given the nature of the hydra’s counter-proposal, I expect your may gain rather more support from the continent’s other powers in the years to come, as well.

I look forward to some more formal trade and cooperation, once the frontiers have been settled and trade routes opened up.

May your eyes ever be unclouded,
-Academic Cahit, Committee on Applied Metaphysics, Esheri Republic

Spoiler: Phanos, but Public

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A copy of the Treaty of Xishan, signed this past month, for verification and archival purposes

1. The Illuminated Council of Phanos and the Committee on the Hanruin Question of the Esheri Republic, invested with the full authority of their nations, pledge peace and neutrality towards each other for a period of no less than two years [until turn 4], forswearing attacks both overt and subtle, as well as the giving of aid or advice to other enemies.
2. The representatives of the Esheri Republic do hereby renounce any claim to the deserts and badlands to the north of the colony of Symponia, acknowledging it as rightfully falling under Phanosine dominion. [Territory 9]
2.1 The representatives of the Illuminated Council do hereby pledge to grant the right of free navigation through the aforementioned territories to the Esheri Republic, its agents, its citizens, and foreign aliens trading on its behalf or acting under its auspices
3. The representatives of the Illuminated Council hereby pledge to, within the next full year, chart a navigable route to virgin or barbaric lands, and share knowledge of this route with the agents of Esheri Republic.
3.1. The representatives of the Esheri Republic do hereby pledge to grant the right of free navigation through the aforementioned territories to the Illuminated Council, its agents, its citizens, and foreign aliens trading on its behalf or acting under its auspices
4. If any single clause of this treaty is violated, it shall be considered void in its entirety.

Signed
Academic Hira, for the Grand Secretariat of the Esheri Republic
Deos, son of Horus, for the Illuminated Council of Phanos

[Hamste]

The Grand Collection of the First Hill Hobbits of Taedhea and Surrounding Countryside Under the Administration of the Great Council of Elders, Colony of the Exceptional Alliance of Free Hobbits Administrated by the Parliament of Duly Elected Officials

6 morale
8 reputation

Spoiler: To the Courts, the Legion of Balance and Khalos

Show

Given our interest in forming a voting bloc with you we are of course interested in this. A unified front would greatly help with getting appropriate bills through.

We don't need a true majority for a bloc to work, we may be fine with out it as long as we can convince one other person to vote with us on any given topic. Besides we are likely to get a majority soon anyways.

Guntram Von Banks, Elder

[Let'sGetKraken]

The Fae of the Four Courts

All Messages Morale 4

Spoiler: To the Red Aurora College

Show

The dance continues. Unending. Unyielding. A compact is made. Your power becomes ours, and our voice yours.

It is signed “Duke of Frigid Serenity”.

Spoiler: To the Valence Lodge

Show

A grand event it shall be, then. Four shall come to Four, and Four will divide. Balance will be achieved, of sort. We have no desire for the Northeast, save for the forests closest to us, which have been claimed by Spring. Delightful. What wonders you shall craft. Beautiful horrors. Grand experimentation.

Spoiler: OOC

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Early next turn we’ll get a group discussion going about how people want to expand, and see how those visions conflict.

Spoiler: To the Grand Collection and Khalos

Show

Three can sway. Three cannot decide. The future shifts and buckles under dreams unread and unseen. Discussion, at least, is agreeable.

Spoiler: OOC

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Since the Legion can’t vote, the three of us don’t have enough sway to realistically set up any sort of dominant voting block. That said, the Fae are always open to discussion – or favours – if you’re interested in soliciting their votes in a particular direction. Also open to those of you with high enough ESP to be reading this, so long as you don’t have REP 1 or lower.

[GameOfChampions]

Turn 2

“…the object of waging a war is always to be in a better position in which to wage another war.” - George Orwell

Spring gives way to the burning hot summers and cool autumns of rest of the year. Dirt is baked under the sun, perfect for stomping feet of armies or the travel of emissaries. Summer is the season of war.

Booming Economy

The Clockwork Republic is booming like no other nation! Resources and organizations are spreading like wildfire in the fertile forests of the Republic. Since they arrived a few seasons past they have gathered resources beyond what other nations dreamed of and put it all back into infrastructure and local organizations to better build up the Republic into a mighty titan of industry.

Spoiler: OOC

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Republic gains Title Economic Stimulation: Gain 5 stats in a single Eot from investment or events (no territory taking). Gain 1 Econ, reduce a 6:1 ratio to 5:1 permanently.

Wonderous Time

Word has spread through Hanrui of the attempts of Clan Baem. The homesick clan desires to bring something grand from their home to Hanrui in an attempt to make their island more homey and homelike. So far it is little more the grand plans with a cleared space and the heart of the people involved.

Time will tell if the clan will follow through to create a wonder the likes of which Hanrui has never seen.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Clan Baem starts Wonder

Expansion

Hanrui had been an open door, begging for expansion of the nations making their home here. They did not disappoint this season! Armies march, spies blackmail, and diplomats reason all over. Land all over is being snatched up by hungry nations and soon there will be none left.

Myrkur has become dominated by the Elda Háfnar, their horrifying world ships traveling to the other parts of the island to drown the locals in a flood of dark magic and the merciless sea. The entire island is now beholden to the dark gods of the depths.

Xihou (West Continent) has seen the march of many armies and forces as the land is snatched up. The Imperial Armies return to their old ways once more. They may not have been as large or experienced as they had in days past but local warlords and bandits both fall to the might of the armies. The Silverhammer Protectorate is back on Hanrui once more. The people of this Hanrui do not know the might of the Silverhammer Protectorate or The Burning Savior. These few months have started to show the world differently. Various battlegroups from the Crystalheart Covenant venture forth from their lands, Topaz Fang strike teams and Ruby Flame regiments lead the way. They dominate the neighboring territories in extraordinary displays of elemental magic, violence, and good old fashioned diplomacy.

Jahalkraun (East Continent), The Realm of Monsters. Monsters of all sorts roam these lands as the poor mortals are soon to learn. The Fae Courts expand rapidly, each court taking a section of land to play with (conquer). Sword, sorcery, and subterfuge dominate the unprepared mortals who had the misfortune of being found beside these immortal creatures. In the north of Jahalkraun the Khalos Guild ‘convinces’ the neighboring towns and villages that trade and loot would bring wealth to their nations. They also convince their neighbers that working for the giant monster hydra is the best way to not get eaten by it when Khalos becomes hungry… or bored.

Vahsi (Southern Continent) watches as the nations expand, the eastern half becomes rapidly full as the nations take every last scrap of land they can. Only one or two slivers are left after the Centaurs begin their wild ride across the coast. Spreading in both directions as they search for purpose. Phanos sends it religious horde to the ocean, securing a coastal territory and spreading the word of Yurian. The Clockwork Republic has grabbed a southern sliver of land, expanding their holdings and securing more resources for the booming nation. The Hobbits have moved in regiments to the south, purely to protect their beloved neighbors from possible threats. The Red Aurora College has brought in mercenaries to secure them some more land to fund the education and research costs of their college.

Betting on War

Powerful nations from the mainlands are reaching out to various nations in Hanrui, each one is trying to find a nation from among you to fund its wars. On one of the larger mainland continents dozens of nations are forming coalitions and fighting all over. The nations are asking for funds, soldiers, and spies to wage war on their enemies. They promise if they are successful your investments will be repaid twofold. If they lose though… losers pay back no loans. The vast majority of these nations are reaching out through the World Congress organization. The Congress will put forward the motion this coming season to see if local nations are interested in being involved with these desperate nations.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Mil, Esp, Eco can be invested, returned back double if funded nation wins. Each investment is independent of any other investments and not effected by what another faction in the game may put in. Odds are slightly adjusted to be in your favor for each point invested. Starts at 50/50 odds.

This is an Event to vote on this Midturn

Search for Talent

Nations all over Hanrui have recognized the need for new talent in this dangerous land. Congress has agreed to put this forward in their next meeting after the The Grand Collection of Hobbits put forward the motion with many of their resources behind it. The Congress recognizes their wisdom and forethought in these difficult days. In a few months the bill will

Spoiler: OOC

Show

Tier 1 VIPs are half price this turn. 3 of relevant stat and 2 of any others. Max for each nation is 3 VIPS.

This is an Event to vote on this Midturn

Midturn is Due by Midnight on Nov 11

[St. Justicar]

The Clockwork Republic

Unless you do everything for humanity, you have done nothing. Unless you are entirely free, you will again become a slave.

The port towns of the new province of Xyleia had submitted quickly and nearly peacefully – once their patricians and headmen had taken a moment to compare the guns of the Ascenatic and Seviye to their fishing fleets and driftwood walls, anyway. For the first weeks, it seemed as if the expansion effort might be entirely effortless, just a matter of showing the flag and divvying up garrison duty.

Of course, nothing went quite that well, as the brutally butchered surveying mission – and its dozen-strong accompaniment of marines – explained quite eloquently to anyone who found their remains impaled on the edges of the ancient forest that left all but monopolized the province’s fertile land.

(Valens had reevaluated his opinion of the humans and sea elves now living under the Republic, at that news. A lack of civilizational advancement was perhaps understandable if anyone who tried became a public lesson in which parts of a corpse the scavengers would eat first).

The months since had been a long, miserable game of cat and mouse, with no one involved ever quite sure of which role they were playing. Marine detachments of fifty or one hundred would march into the forest, and discover nothing except abandoned camps, hidden pitfalls, or, if they were very lucky, small bands of wild elves attempting to lure their into an ambush. Smaller groups were just as likely to never return for debriefing at all.

It was, all in all, a major impediment to the forestry operations the land was all but made for. Which meant that something had to be done.

The marine company was almost too tempting a target for an ambush. Marching in lines of two, sweating in their starched white and blue-grey uniforms, guns slung over their shoulders, supplies and building materials in overloaded barges as they marched up one of the wider rivers, intent on establishing a fort far enough inland to begin properly controlling the forest.

The attack came at the end of a day’s march, just as the marines were ready to collapse form exhaustion, or at least make camp and start looking for food. The full force of the wild elves let out a bellowing, sibilant war cry as they launched themselves from the dense undergrowth and the branches of the trees above, ghostly pale skin marked with freshly drawn blood to claim the stealth and surefootedness of the animals they slew, poison-tipped arrows flying through the air as they hefted axes and spears of wood and stone.

Standing on the central barge, Valens grinned, and with a gesture his trumpeter let out a single, sharp trill. Perfectly drilled, the marines on the shore dove for the ground, and those on the barges pushed the ‘supplies’ overboard, revealing very nearly every cannon the expedition had, primed and loaded.

On the second trill, the canon fired. On the third, the marines on shore formed up and fixed bayonets. It was all over but for the bleeding.

The first proper lumber camps had been established within the month, the rates being offered for shipworthy timber and the chance to get back at the hated ‘guardians of the forest’ both doing much to reconcile the townsfolk to their new government. By the end of the year, the port at Symponia should be laying down the Republic’s first Hanruin hulls.
--------------------------------------------

Morale 6

Spoiler: Clan Baem

Show

Greetings to the All-Chief, etc, etc

Pleasure doing business with you, these last seasons. You mentioned being interested in repeating the same deal, yeah? On behalf of the Republic, I’d be more than happy to ink a treaty and arrange some investments to grow that island economy of yours. Fisheries, maybe? Pearl diving? You didn’t pick a home with zero natural resources, did you? Well, I suppose auctioning off some privateering licences might work.

Anyway, assuming the giants don’t all go sun-mad and come charging towards the coast, I’d say pick out a vacation home while there’s still real estate available. Provide piloting and pathfinding, and Strategist Valens has been authorized to lead an expiation to pacify some savage lands under your flag.

-Coordinator Nese, Ranking Member of the Committee of Industry and Progress (Hanrui)

Spoiler: Phanos

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For the desk of Hiu Brighteyes,

I do hope this finds you well, and that your council is finding our treaty as agreeable as my superiors.

Likewise, I trust that your missionary efforts to our North proceeded smoothly? It seems that such loosely held land is becoming more precious by the day. I hope you will not take offence if I wonder where you intend to spread your god’s light next?
In any event, I am writing to officially inquire how your empire intends to discharge its treaty obligations. As long as basic good faith is observed, the choice is yours, but our strategists would prefer to know in advance what routes you plan to chart.

As a purely parochial matter, safe shipping through the eastern isles [1] would serve the Republic nicely, though I can certainly understand if your own advisers would counsel a route to the savage lands of Jahalkraun.

In any event, I eagerly await your response.

Peace and Reason,
Academic Hira, Special Adviser to the Secretariat

[3SecondCultist]

ᛖᛚᛞᚨ ᚺᚨᚠᚾᚨᚱ
Elda Háfnar, aka 'The Farthest Fleet'

"Yar, the blood runs cold
We take our loot but don't get old
YO, yo HO! YO, yo HO!
All HAIIIILLL the Mighty! He's a-risin' from the deep
With tattered sails
And incredible tales
We're caught in endless seas!"

- Translated as 'Hymn to the Mighty', a traditional Elda song

---

Of Slaves and Sea Shanties

Wild winds howled across the bow of Khombriss Depths. Its figurehead - a snarling sea linnorm slain near the crossing of the Chaostide - was now complemented with hull scales taken from the corpse of the ancient trilobite that had escaped the stomach lining of the mother leviathan of Myrkur. Sails of gossamer fabric spun in hues to drive men mad drifted gently to and fro, as if to defy the oncoming storm, opalescent lines in ship shape and the old Utarsk fashion despite their appearance. The last of the cannon had been loaded days ago, filling all three gun decks of the man o'war to capacity. Captain Hjordis was not one for mistakes; she had made sure to commission the berth for the Depths well clear of the fleet's main ammunition stores, lest one of the unfortunate 'accidents' so common among the wilder men and their allies from the depths set a match to tinder.

Skeppare Alvi, who was second in command to Hjordis herself and acting captain while she was ashore, did not feel the chill that came off of the nor'wester. Like most of those who had completed the pilgrimage to Glorious Glimnir, his journey's end had seen to it that he would never taste of that pain again. What had once been mere tattoos emblazoned on his chest and forearms, markings of past victories over foes long gone, burned with baleful incandescence beneath the skin. His glowing blood lay somewhere between indigo and arctic blue now, and ran with a consistency closer to mud, congealing wounds near-instantly. Kult Hala called it the Blessing of Last Light, though he knew plenty of crewmates who had been given different gifts from the gods beyond.

Standing near the rail of the fo'c'sle, the skappare watched with some satisfaction as he heard the familiar crack of the living whips - whose barbed scourges shrieked in ecstasy at the taste of fresh blood - hiss out over the deck. Some fool swab had missed a spot while scrubbing the aft deck, and it had been up to the thegn carls to straighten it out. At least the crewman knew better than to scream while being lashed; the bosun of the Depths made it a point of pride to keep swinging until every salt dog knew to keep their damn mouth shut, whether out of willpower or lack of consciousness.

"That's what you get when you press-gang the locals," came a voice at Alvi's right. He did not turn to look at his lieutenant, for meeting the eyes of one with the Blessing of the Gray Gaze even incidentally never ended pleasantly. Phia had not been a member of any of the clans when what was now the Farthest Fleet had sailed into the unknown. A born brigand, she had raided a great number of nations before seeking the protection of the Drowned Moot. Ever fair, she had kept a whole deck of lovers before the touch of the Void. Now, it was said that she loved only her cutlass at night. "Damned incompetent wastrels, that's what they are, and as slaves they'll be lifelong resource drains to boot. Why did the cap'n take them on board in the first place?"

"It's Hjordis' reckoning that Khombriss Depths will see action soon," Alvi replied with the wrought-iron patience forged from dealing with stupid bandit filth, "and when she does, it's better to have a few disposable bodies on board. We keep them on half rations for now, at least until they survive their first hunt. Then we see if we can make proper warriors out of them."

"Hrm," Phia grunted in reply. He heard her take a swig of rum, but did not ask her to pass over the bottle. Spirits were near poison to him now, something about them not mixing well with the fire within, but truth be told he did not miss the taste overmuch. Besides, he mused as he observed the last of the lashings, there were other pleasures in life.

As the new members of the crew were hauled back to their feet and sent to their evening duties, Alvi could not help but hear a voice carry authoritatively from near the helm. Narrowing his eyes, the skeppare spotted a single man in threadbare cloth who had just made his way to the base of the aft mast. Like him, the sailor must have been watching the public discipline, for his eyes were already wet with tears and his brow trembled with the open sorrow of someone who has not seen the end of the world. Alvi was ready to call to his men to pull one more down to the whipping post, but as he listened he realized that what he had taken as open defiance was instead a mere song.

"Ó bróðir, verið sextíu og þrír dagar
Vatnið hefur verið kverkandi, hvalrekandinn hún sveiflar
Get ekki haldið neinum mat niðri, finn engan svefn
Því að nóttin er of dökk og vatnið of djúpt."

The moment that Alvi heard the words, he could not help but smile. Every sailor on the Utar Isles knew well the verses to The Wayfaring Sailor. There wasn't a single port on those rocks where the song wouldn't have been recognized, though every clan kept their own versions or added verses to make it their own. That it had survived over a century and hundreds of leagues was a wonder in and of itself.

"Tvo sumar fór ég um borð í þetta gamla tréskip
Sól hún skín á Cullero bryggju
En nú er allt stormur á köldum sjó
An 'ef ég drukkna ekki, þá mun ég örugglega frysta;

Vindur blæs okkur yfir þessari bleiku svörtu bylgju
Bróðir verndar mig fyrir vatnsgröf!"

The song spoke of being lost at sea so very far away from home, of fighting the cruel fates. Already a favorite in the time of the Brothers' War, it had become one of the anthems of the Elda on their voyage to Glimnir. Alvi did not doubt for a moment that this particular swab was singing it for an entirely different purpose. His voice was clear and carried far, and soon every man and woman on the main deck had stopped what they were doing to stare at him. However, the man only had eyes for those who bore the marks of the bosun's wrath. With every line sung his volume increased, until he was all but shouting the words as best he could.

"Should we put him down, cut off the song?" Alvi heard Phia mutter at his side. "That's bound to cause some trouble." And indeed, all of the recent 'volunteers' to the crew were already looking to their masters with newfound ire in their eyes. Within moments their voices had joined the first singer's. Some had even taken to stamping their feet on the deck in time, adding an undeniably powerful rhythm. The Elda on board were already drawing weapons and advancing on the slaves, but the senior-most of Alvi's warriors looked to him, waiting to see what he would do in response before springing into action prematurely. He had trained his thegn carls well.

"Cut off the song?" he asked with a grin. "Now why would we ever do such a thing?"

"Nú rotturnar á dekkinu, nippa fæturna á mér
Og götin í tuskunum mínum, stela hitanum mínum
Þessar skálar af brúnni súpu, með varla kjöti
Láttu mig dreyma á kvöldin um sólríka gamla götuna mína

En fátækur fífl eins og ég verður að vinna sér inn bein laun
Svo ég gekk sjálfur áfram að þessu sjófararbúri
Þar sem skipstjórinn er einelti og áhöfnin full af þjófum
Og áfengið er svo slæmt að ég fæ þurra loftið."

"Vindur blæs okkur yfir þessari bleiku svörtu bylgju
Bróðir verndað fyrir vatnsgröf!"

Alvi's own voice could be heard from bow to stern, cutting through the chorus of the imprisoned. The slave-singer's eyes widened and he nearly choked on his own tongue when he realized who it was that had interrupted him. Similarly, he could see confused glances darting around down below. It was at that moment - when the momentum of those who had been incited to action was faltering - that the skeppare began to move. In measured strides, he began to walk down the outer length of the main deck towards the starboard balustrade without ever dropping pitch. As he did so, Alvi pointed to the base of his own throat with two fingers and then turned his hand over, gesturing twice towards the cloudless slate sky.

Thankfully, his warriors understood the gesture, as they soon added the rumbling bass of their voices to his. The press-ganged sailors on board were numerous, but the Elda were healthy and hale. Captors and oppressed were battling for the heart of the song now; where the former Myrkur islanders were stomping the feet, the members of the Fleet were crashing the hilts of their weapons into shields and armor. The din was tremendous, the sound of the struggle no doubt audible all over Keelbreaker Bay. Yet no man or woman among them had drawn blood, nor would they as long as he stayed his own blade.

"Átta vikur, sögðu þeir átta
En það eru tíu vikur sem við bíðum enn
Ekki einn einmana klettur í sjónmáli
Svo það er önnur hættuleg nótt;

Nú kemur ungur sjómaður, lærðu af reynslu minni
Ef þig dreymir um að sigla heimsveldinu
Það er saga erfiðra tíma, með dauða alla daga
Trúðu því ekki einu orði sem skipstjórinn gæti sagt."

Within a minute, Alvi had pushed his way all the way to the helm. With every step, the first slave grew more muted, until the two of them were standing a mere three feet apart. He could barely hear the other man now, and he would not even look the officer in the eye. Down below, he could hear the forceful bellowing of his men break the last reserves of the would-be upstarts, most of who now stood cowed and quiet. The next bars of the song died away ignominiously, leaving a deafening and expectant silence in its wake.

With one great tattooed arm, Alvi slowly pulled the instigator forward and dragged him towards the rail. The man flinched away at the touch, but there was nothing for it; the skeppare had at least forty pounds and several inches on him, not to mention the long steel and flintlock at his belt. However, Alvi drew neither. Instead, he simply looked at the other man. "You have a brave heart, and a truly lovely voice," he finally said after a while. "What is your name, friend?"

"Ni-Nikolas."

"Well Nikolas, I think that it would be a shame if we were unable to end something that we started. So why don't the two of us finish off The Wayfaring Sailor, hrm?" He gave Nikolas the time he needed to tremble through a nod before gesturing to the upturned faces watching them from below. Alvi could vaguely make out the shape of Phia giving him a wicked smile from the massed crowd of flesh and metal, so he made a point of looking away while silently cursing her name.

"Vindur blæs okkur yfir þessari bleiku svörtu bylgju
Bróðir verndað fyrir vatnsgröf!"

There was no reaction at first, but that moment was soon devoured by the triumphant roars of his men. Even some of the swabs and galley slaves who had been so moved by Nikolas' song were cheering. This time, the sound of boots and shields were as one, and hard laughs were exchanged between hard bastards on both sides. Misted breath and red cheeks warmed the air on the deck of Khombriss Depths, and for just a second all of those who stood beneath the alien lines and strange banners of Glimnir forgot the hardships, forgot the wars and starvations, forgot the storms and grotesque beings that had accompanied the Farthest Fleet back from the Beautiful Void.

And then, in between heartbeats, Alvi hauled Nikolas off of his feet by the neck with one hand and squeezed, crushing his windpipe and every bone in his throat.

The slave did not even have time to register what was happening, any semblance of a cry stolen away by a murderer's wind. His eyes rolled back into his skull, and his blood trickled down Alvi's meaty hand where a bit of collarbone was sticking out of the raw flesh. Nikolas' body went slack, the weight of it suddenly threatening to bring Alvi down to the deck. Leaning the corpse against the wooden railing, the skeppare reached down and lifted it by the legs before giving it one last shove. The body landed in a tumble of broken limbs; its vacant blank eyes stared into the faces of the slave crew, who looked right back in ghastly shock. Meanwhile, none of the Elda had stopped laughing.

"Back to your stations! We have work to do," Alvi ordered, and this time the men stepped to without a second's hesitation.

[Let'sGetKraken]

The Fae of the Four Courts

This fluff piece is adapted from and based on Game of Champions' EoT write-up of the territories I took.


The Princess of Scorching Chains and her personal retinue – several dozen fae wreathed in shimmering fire and light – overlook the forest below them. Nestled in the peaceful woodland valley is a small logging village, oblivious to the fate before them. As she moves, surveying the Summer Court of Flaying Sands’ newest prize-to-be, hundreds of tiny molten chains break and reform around her. With a calm, collected motion, she raises a gloved, blood-red fist, and gestures. Her servants – for all of Summer save the King and Queen serve her – begin their spells. She feels the arcane power burn through her, searing her being, in a way that lesser races never could. The eyes of her full-face mask, ridged in burnished gold, glow with fire as a sandstorm erupts through the village. When it strikes the hapless villagers, who collapse and stagger under the storm, their identity and autonomy are eroded. As the valley becomes desert, its inhabitants are broken under the Will of Summer. Perhaps the Princess smiles beneath the mask, if she has a mouth with which to do so. It is irrelevant. There are other lands to be claimed.

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The Knight of Valorous Peaks is broad, and as tall as three men. He is armored in plate of stone, shaped by his own hands to be stronger than any steel known to man. In his left arms, he carries a halberd adorned with glowing grey runes; in his right, he holds a battleaxe seemingly crafted from amethyst. His mask is formed of rock, featureless except for two shallow depressions where his eyes would be. To his left strides his companion, the Sage of Violet Stability, who is merely the height of a normal man. The Sage is wrapped in a cloak of what seems like gems made into cloth, harder than diamond yet softer than silk. He carries no weapons; those unfamiliar with his order might incorrectly assume him to be a weaker combatant.

Together, they stride towards the army of men arranged before them. They have claimed these lands for the Spring Court of Righteous Steel, and will fight to prove their rightful rule. All around them, the air thickens, as the spirits of nature are drawn to the Sage’s aura. They watch, curious, as a unit of thirty men charge at the challengers. Only a minute later, they lie broken and battered in the dust before the untouched Fae. At this, the army waves the flag of surrender. Before the Might of Spring, there can be no victory.

-----------------------------

A wave of cold wind blankets the region, far earlier than it should. The snow that comes with it is unlike any its inhabitants have ever seen; it shimmers with wondrous colours, it cures ailments and changes those it touches in subtle ways. The Winter Court of Nascent Wonders dance through it, dazzling the villagers in their oddity and majesty. While they all bear masks, some are larger than houses, and others the size of children. Some do not have fixed forms at all, constantly changing, and others are only noticeable through their masks, which they form from various materials lying about whenever they work their spellcraft. They bring awe and wonder wherever they go, drawing in the mortals to wander after them. Those who bow to the Whims of Winter are spared and welcomed as subjects of the Court. In years, they will absorb the ambient magic that suffuses the lands of the Winter Court and become great mages and healers. For now, they must acclimatize to the dramatically colder temperatures and constantly changing landscapes.

Others challenge the Fae as they dance through the land. Those who draw iron before the Fae are savaged or changed by rime and arcane might. In less than a few weeks, the land has become an ever-shifting, frigid tundra filled with wondrous magics.

-----------------------------

A decadent lounging Fae, his face covered in a mask of crimson petals, is flanked by two beautiful and depraved women in magnificent dresses and jewelry. They are all matching in silks as dark as night, speckled with red, and they sip a wine darker than blood. The Mage of Bottomless Ruin had spent days building to this conclusion, the right moment, and he would not see it wasted. The Autumn Court of Sanguine Decadence would not be satisfied with anything less.

The three watch the approaching army. It had been a plan in three parts. First, the Mage had worked his subtle magics upon the leaders of the villages. Under his touch, each had gone mad, three days past. One had poisoned all the wells in his village. Another had set fire to every domicile. He worked destruction among them, and did it well. Secondly, his servants had kidnapped children in broad daylight, rousing the people of this region to fury. And now, it culminated. With a clap of his hands, the glamour shatters and dozens of Fae appear surrounding the army, each with a pair of the stolen children chained at their feet. They start to chant and several seconds later the life force starts to bleed from the sacrifices, entering the complex ritual circles they had laid down earlier. The sacrifices finish, the Mage smirks, and the army snaps. But they do not attack the Fae. No, instead they slaughter and brutalize each other, providing the forest a glut of fresh blood to feast on. They die, the spectacle feeding the boundless Hunger of Autumn.


-----------------------------


All messages sent at Morale 9.

Spoiler: To the Valence Lodge, the Khalos Guild, and the Legion of Balance

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Conquer. Grow. Take. Imperatives that rule us all. The reach of the Courts grow, and the edges of the Forests grow closer by the month. We would negotiate, as to these lands we occupy. Each have something to offer. Balance. Strength. Ingenuity. Power. Resourcefulness. Ambition. Vision. Connection. Let us deliberate, and exist.

Spoiler: OOC

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Okay, so two things.

1) The Fae of the Four Courts are proposing a non-aggression pact between the four nations here. Pretty standard – no directly or indirectly attacking each other for a set period of time.

2) The Fae are formally renouncing any claim on territories 52 and 53, for the legion of Balance to take. They are also renouncing claims on territories 62, 67, and 68, and anything further north than that. The Fae are suggesting that the Khalos Trading Guild take territories 61 and 66, and that the Valence Lodge expand to 67, 68, and 70. The Four Courts are claiming 55 and 58, and are willing to pay the Valence lodge for 59 if not desired.

Spoiler: To the Clockwork Republic

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Tell us, machine-men. Of Summer and Spring, with which do you identify? We know of your agreement with the Sun-Titans, who, in their arrogance, sought fit to contact Winter. We know your eyes look outward. If you are to be our neighbors, we caution you – choose better than they did.