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True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16686	Posted - 2015.01.19 21:22:00 - [1] - Quote ((Anymore room for an new nation cuz me be bored?)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16686	Posted - 2015.01.19 21:26:00 - [2] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((Anymore room for an new nation cuz me be bored?)) ((Always.)) ((And one last thing how many characters can I have? Trying to determine which would be better to use of my country)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16689	Posted - 2015.01.19 22:05:00 - [3] - Quote Country Name: Skadia Capital: Erricist Port City: Rhen -Ys Population: Minimal Borders: Largest Island Nation attached to an Archipelago Cultural Focus: ArtisanGÇÖs and Traders Religious Focus: Pantheonic with emphasis on Goddess of the Ocean and God of Prosperity and Fertillity Current System of Governance: Principality Cultural Strengths: Production and Art Cultural Weaknesses: Meek Population Capital Terrain: Lakeside Provincial Terrain Strengths: Naval Terrain Weaknesses: Tundra Country Terrain Strengths: Mineral Rich Country Terrain Weaknesses: Isolated Resource Strengths: Textile Development Resource Weaknesses: Dependency on Wood *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16689	Posted - 2015.01.19 22:24:00 - [4] - Quote Messengers, all youthful, with the dark hair of the Skadian's, with sun-bronzed skin that spoke on many years plying the temperate oceans appear at the gates and docks of the cities of the world. After requesting entry and appointment with the ministers and lords they present a single rolled and intricately woven banner, unrolling it at their hosts feet. The banner bears several crests arranged around a central crest lavished with detail and with a particularly unique stitching pattern. The Crest is a simple Green Sea Hawk on the Field of Ocean Blue. With much effort the youth conveys a message...... The Island Nation of Skadia has abolished it's isolationist policies at the behest of Prince Martyn Dontheyrs, Third of his Name and welcomes the peoples of the world to our country. The previously established foreigners quarters in Rhen-Ys have been re purposed into additional housing and textile mills and the Capital of Errecist is now opened to the public. He humbly requests the opportunity to discuss foreign policy and trade agreements during the celebratory evening Gala during the Festival of Kalya, Goddess of the Oceans in Rhen-Ys *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16691	Posted - 2015.01.19 23:42:00 - [5] - Quote Spademan wrote: Queen +åschild returns to the keep after the days jousting. Soon after, the Skadian messenger arrives. "Thank you for bringing the message. We are currently having a Jousting tournament, I would welcome you to stay for a few days until it's end, and I would be glad to attend your festival." The nature of the conversation was something he did not recognise despite his fair grasp of the foreign language causing him to frown. It was perhaps however for the Skadian envoy to learn more about the Landborne. The young messenger blushed awkwardly aware of the look of confusion on his face and the delay in acquiescing to the Queen's request, adding a rosy tint to his tanned skin. He bowed low from the waist, his hair falling across his face as he stares at the floor. "If I may Tide-swan....and if such ask.....that..." He replied fumbling over the pronunciation of the words, but composed himself quickly. "I will if you would have Thane Two Rivers as a guest....your "jousting" sounds intriguing. May my Oar Captain have permission to dock and trade for the duration of the tournament?" *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16692	Posted - 2015.01.20 00:35:00 - [6] - Quote Spademan wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: Spademan wrote: Queen +åschild returns to the keep after the days jousting. Soon after, the Skadian messenger arrives. "Thank you for bringing the message. We are currently having a Jousting tournament, I would welcome you to stay for a few days until it's end, and I would be glad to attend your festival." "Who might this be, my Queen?" Krion asked attempting to sound proper despite this person being a foreigner. "Ah, Sir Vin" She says with a tone intended to remind him of his new identity. "This is a messenger from the Island Nation of Skadia." Turning back to the messenger, she replies to his request. "If your Thane wished to compete in the tournament I'm afraid not, as it is already started. However, there are non-tournament rounds that he is welcome to participate in if he so wished, otherwise he is free to observe as my guest." She steps away for a moment to collect a scroll which she signs at the bottom "Your captain may dock here, give the harbour master this, it will waive the docking fee" This confused Thane greatly but at the same time was very informative. The language barrier was not something he had initially anticipated however this journey had served him well in improving his grasp of the Landborne's tongue. He was also curious about the manner by which the Queen had refereed to him. Perhaps his name meant something in these lands that it did not in his own. He would be sure to find out. He bowed again, though not in a formal manner this time, to show his thanks. "Our thanks Tide-s.... my Queen. The tides shall guide him to shore, Kalya will see to it. But worry not it is our obligation to offer our thanks and respect to your harbour master. He shall be handsomely reimbursed as is our way." He eyed the other man, and his jaw almost dropped. Whoever he was he appeared to wear a strange kind of metal armour. Unsure of his rank or if social graces decreed he off the man his respects, nodding cautiously to him. "We thank you for your offer but I fear that I might be unsuitable for contests that have little do with sailing and I would do poorly to shame my Oar-Captain." ((I'm assuming since you are a knight you wear armour...but if you aren't discount the passage that says you do....)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16692	Posted - 2015.01.20 00:50:00 - [7] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((I'm assuming since you are a knight you wear armour...but if you aren't discount the passage that says you do....)) ((In this instance he is wearing his regular titanium weave robes that are common among the members of the Creed. May I ask how far you have read into this whole thing? It is quite the large story and I was wondering if anyone has had the time, and interest to read it through.)) ((Some but not all. There's a lot of content and OOC mixed with IC. I just need a rough idea of specific actions I need players or your weigh in on and general technological levels. I figured since I entered rather late it's safe to assume I have some technological development in certain areas but not in others. Since we were isolationists we've also had no contact with your cultures before. For example the Skadians have never even considered that you could make plate metal or chainmail metal armour.....or that they would ever need it but given that they are likely to see it, they will probably begin working on it.)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16696	Posted - 2015.01.20 01:10:00 - [8] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((I'm assuming since you are a knight you wear armour...but if you aren't discount the passage that says you do....)) ((In this instance he is wearing his regular titanium weave robes that are common among the members of the Creed. May I ask how far you have read into this whole thing? It is quite the large story and I was wondering if anyone has had the time, and interest to read it through.)) ((Some but not all. There's a lot of content and OOC mixed with IC. I just need a rough idea of specific actions I need players or your weigh in on and general technological levels. I figured since I entered rather late it's safe to assume I have some technological development in certain areas but not in others. Since we were isolationists we've also had no contact with your cultures before. For example the Skadians have never even considered that you could make plate metal or chainmail metal armour.....or that they would ever need it but given that they are likely to see it, they will probably begin working on it.)) ((I expected something along the lines of 'A thin weave outfit that appeared to be made up of a metallic material.)) ((Done..... I've also decided that Skadian's have never seen horses before and don't understand the term cavalry)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16696	Posted - 2015.01.20 01:17:00 - [9] - Quote ((What's the most technologically thing generated and is there magic? Otherwise we should continue)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16707	Posted - 2015.01.20 19:45:00 - [10] - Quote Thane dropped to his knees and began to roll the spread Skadian flag, bundling it carefully in his arms before tying it securely with a thin strip of green fabric. He tucked the fabric gingerly under his arm and straightened abruptly. "By your leave I would like to see this "jousting" buisness." *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16712	Posted - 2015.01.20 22:02:00 - [11] - Quote Thane wandered around for a time marvelling at the knights as they displayed to him all manner of armaments the likes of which neither he nor any other Skadian would have dreamed. Thick armour plating, chained mails, long spears called lances.... the designs were crude and rather lacking in artistry but functional none the less, likely even now the Oar Captain was bartering with local tradesmen for their purchase. More to his interests were the animals that knights professed to ride, horses they were called in the foreign language, though how a man in heavy metal armour mounted such a thing he did not know. He gathered quickly what the purpose of jousting was as he took his position in the viewing areas however was wholly unprepared for the barbarity of contests as the knights took turns breaking their weapons against one another, flinching visibly as Krion bore his opponent to the ground. He found himself only watching a few more matches before the display sickened him and he returned to the less obtrusive eaves of the castle. *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16714	Posted - 2015.01.20 23:14:00 - [12] - Quote Spademan wrote: At the castle Chancellor Eofor encountered Thane in the Hall as he returned from the Jousting "Ah, greetings. You are Thane Two Rivers of Skadia, correct? I am Chancellor Eofor, advisor to the Queen in diplomatic relations. Thane, is that a title or a name? And how did you find the jousting?" Thane looked up the the Chancellor, noting his clothing as befitting a man of office. " Tis my name my lord, for the honour of my father Tharic Two Rivers who plied its waters, though I am some half the sailor he was at my age." Thane replied with no small amount of pride addressing the first question. "It's quite the beautiful stretch of water where two of the feeding rivers of the island's central man made aqueduct meet. All common men and women are named for such in Skadia." However he could not mask his discomfort. "The Jousting is...... rather abrupt my Lord...I-I am not sure I understand it but the sport must assuredly be a noble one if some many reputable men would take part in it. As Skadia's envoy I relish the chance to appreciate more of your ways...." *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16715	Posted - 2015.01.21 00:10:00 - [13] - Quote Spademan wrote: True Adamance wrote: Thane looked up the the Chancellor, noting his clothing as befitting a man of office. " Tis my name my lord, for the honour of my father Tharic Two Rivers who plied its waters, though I am some half the sailor he was at my age." Thane replied with no small amount of pride addressing the first question. "It's quite the beautiful stretch of water where two of the feeding rivers of the island's central man made aqueduct meet. All common men and women are named for such in Skadia." However he could not mask his discomfort. "The Jousting is...... rather abrupt my Lord...I-I am not sure I understand it but the sport must assuredly be a noble one if some many reputable men would take part in it. As Skadia's envoy I relish the chance to appreciate more of your ways...." "Quite the story, I will make a point of visiting your Island. I myself am not named after anything so fanciful, my father simply picking the first animal he saw on his trophy wall. Though I must apologise, it is usual here for people to use a title before their name I do admit, the jousting does require a certain calibre of man to compete. Most of those who do have trained from a very young age to be the perfect fighters. Terribly imposing men. Might I request sending an Ambassador to your island with your Oar Captain?" "You said before these knights begin their instruction at a young age.... you mean they wish to fight in this manner?" He asked ironically, now beginning to feel better out of sight of the arena. "My Prince surely would accept the chance to speak with your people. Though I would have to speak with the Oar Captain his word is law while we are at sea.... our vessel was unsuited for much more than carrying cargo swiftly over the oceans....... and space was not as plentiful on the trip here." He muttered the last part bitterly, rubbing at a sore spot on his back. *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16717	Posted - 2015.01.21 00:49:00 - [14] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Krion approached a young sailor which he had seen earlier. "Jian, apologies for not offering a proper welcome earlier. I am Kr..." He paused before he said his true name in front of the Chancellor and passed his abrupt stop off with a cough. "My apologies. I am Sir Vin. Paric blood and Osmar heart." He grew a slight grin with his last words. "I presume you are Thane?" He frowned at the knight for a moment, it was the knight from the earlier joust who had borne he opponent to the ground in a single lance, unsure of how to react. It was not that he disliked the man only that he was a knight. The Skadian people viewed conflict as disdainful, talk, merriment, trade were almost universally preferred as a means open battle or the pursuit of it. "Ser Vin." He replied respectfully. " A.....powerful arm you must have to have unhorsed you opponent as you did earlier... this is a noble quality amongst your people I am told. Yes I am Thane Two Rivers......." He looked down. Staring at the metallic robes first suspiciously, then with understanding, and finally with awe. "Kalya drown m......" He murmured quietly. It is real. Steel and fabric woven into one. He thought astounded. "Your armour is beautiful Ser Vin......what is it?" *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16719	Posted - 2015.01.21 01:48:00 - [15] - Quote "Where might my Oar Captain find such fabric?" He asked insistently. *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16720	Posted - 2015.01.21 02:34:00 - [16] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: "The Dwarves used to make it before the Paric learned and the Dwarves disappeared. Now you may find that they are made in Mournrise, just east of Corpselight near the Angelis islands." ((Magic things like Dwarves exist? Oh I have some good ideas now.)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16721	Posted - 2015.01.21 02:43:00 - [17] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Yes, the leader was Koutan. Read back and you will see Cryptic before he went poof, hence the 'disappeared.' Should I also mention the Paric often have reptilian pupils and heightened senses, I feel this works because they are more in tune with the land around them. :D)) ((perfect. I'm not really into the whole idea of "Magic that fucks with things on a big scale" I like magic/ abilities that do really subtle stuff. Either way a large part of the Skadii culture suddenly makes sense. )) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16724	Posted - 2015.01.21 20:57:00 - [18] - Quote (( I guess the Skadii just worship and pantheon of Gods based on their cultural focuses. Kalya - Goddess of the Ocean (usually a male deity) is the centre of the Pantheon because they see most examples of her hand in their daily lives. Skadia is part on an archipelago chain of islands called the Sy'thal Isles which is a very unique place when it comes to the kinds of weather, currents, etc that one might encounter there. Since the Skadii draw their entire subsistence from the ocean and are fairly blessed and cursed with a wealth of sea life to contend with. They also have a God of Fertility and Prosperity (who like mah boi Zeus is a mad playah!), a Goddess of crafts and inspiration and a couple of others who are less spoken about.)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16727	Posted - 2015.01.21 22:10:00 - [19] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Going to attempt to draw a crude map of everything discovered so far. Green = Osmar Gray = Angelis Red = Paric Yellow = Bloods Blue = Blood Raiders Non colored island = Angelis. Akadia(?) is not included due to me picking something too small. )) ((Would you like me to draw a more detailed map? http://imgur.com/YNn9Veg)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16727	Posted - 2015.01.21 22:18:00 - [20] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Going to attempt to draw a crude map of everything discovered so far. Green = Osmar Gray = Angelis Red = Paric Yellow = Bloods Blue = Blood Raiders Non colored island = Angelis. Akadia(?) is not included due to me picking something too small. )) ((Would you like me to draw a more detailed map?)) ((Yes, very much. Had to use an online program to do that thing and yeah... I'll probably edit your map to contain the locations of my cities before handing it over to Spade, like a kindergarten class!)) ((http://imgur.com/YNn9Veg)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16729	Posted - 2015.01.21 23:07:00 - [21] - Quote (( Here is what the Sy'thal Isles currently looks like....change pending http://imgur.com/VxPLIZU )) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16732	Posted - 2015.01.21 23:48:00 - [22] - Quote Spademan wrote: ((Nice map looking map. I can edit in Osmar Counties if you'd like)) ((Where are they?)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16732	Posted - 2015.01.21 23:53:00 - [23] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: "The Dwarves used to make it before the Paric learned and the Dwarves disappeared. Now you may find that they are made in Mournrise, just east of Corpselight near the Angelis islands." "I see" the Skadii youth said with a certain reverence indicating his deep appreciation of the fabric. Just think what the Prince would offer if I returned to the Isle's with such a gift, he wondered drawing on his knowledge of the Skadii circumnavigational charts of the main continent. The Angelis Isles were but a jaunt for the Skadii crewmen under his Oar Master. The thought pleased him greatly. "Perhaps I shall look into this place after my work here is done Ser Vin. Many thanks." *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16734	Posted - 2015.01.22 00:26:00 - [24] - Quote As the knight left Thane turned to the Chancellor and bowed low to him. "I thank you for your hospitality my Lord. I must speak with my Oar-Captain on the matters we have discussed. I shall return to the keep in several hours if it please you. " He left the keep rapidly, hurrying down through the city to the docks where he spied the sleek design of the Skadii Barge and the familiar face of the Oar-Captain. He stood upon the docks unload a vast supply of cargo before a very surprised and very confused individual whom Thane assumed was likely the harbour master. Having observed the laws of Skadia he beckoned for the Oar-Captain from the bow of the vessel and spoke in hushed tones. "We have permission to trade with the people here and you have even been invited up to the castle Oar-Captain to watch the jousting..... it's barbaric I suggest we decline on your behalf." He said surmising the goings on at the castle in small brief sentences explaining the very clearly advanced designs of the Osmar armaments, and then of the knights steel-cloth. His captain was silent for a long time before speaking. "As you will then Thane-lad we'll stay here and see our cargo sold....as soon as that is done we launch. This is a fine thing you've found lad, you'd be your own captain for this if it weren't for the Callin' you got. We'll be done tomorrow mornin. Y'be here or we'll be makin' a round trip for you" Thane nodded. He understood. The significance for finding something of such beauty and functionality would certainly have demand in the Isles, especially Skadia. "I'll remain" he said solemnly. "I'm told the tournament is not yet done..... and this is the time to learn about them before the Festival." He left the Captain and spent an hour inspecting the Osmar vessels and their merchants with the other crewmen, bartering for provisions, rope, and fabrics. He spent the rest of the day aboard the Barge rigging the single massive mast, gambling his last few Yul away with the other Oar-men and packed his personal belongings into a simple travel bag, before returning to the castle. ((Let me know when you guys want me back into the action and I'll join in)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16735	Posted - 2015.01.22 00:44:00 - [25] - Quote Spademan wrote: ((Did a rough division of Osmar counties, also included their capitals. Didn't have a text tool available. The Island is Crasmere, the inland one is Kilerth, west on the mainland is Howe and East is the capital, Burgtun. (Really wasn't cretive on that last one, it literally translates as Big Town) )) (( Done http://imgur.com/zVF0egG )) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16744	Posted - 2015.01.22 02:28:00 - [26] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Also for the Angelis, Mournfall is located nearest to Mournrise as the Angelis are. Kraigsline is located on the big island in Angelis control. A new city of Bli is located at the northernmost island. BioRaid is on the tip of the pennisula in blue, Calimight is on the tip near Casemere. The capital of Idi is on the border near the center of the nation. Kilamen, and Nomai are on oppisite sides, one near Idi (Nomai) and the other (Kilamen) near the Blood-Osmar border. Corpselight is the main burial place, but is also the trade center and fishermen haven. Dreadwinds is actually a nice little story told to children to make them listen, of course they have something to say (and do) if it doesn't work. Mournrise and Mournfall were originally Paric. One is a deep underground city that put's the Dwarven cities (and ruins) to shame, the other is a stone city rising high into the sky originally cut from a mountain about 3x the size and 7x the height of our largest mountain in real life. Remember, this is not Earth... or even the first colonized planet in Paric and Osmar history (Although neither remember it.) Pant Okay, that good?)) (( I had to guess a bit here and there............)) http://imgur.com/Vu7FPLo *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16768	Posted - 2015.01.22 22:06:00 - [27] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Spademan wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: or even the first colonized planet in Paric and Osmar history (Although neither remember it.) ((That was just a reason to do a reset though :P )) ((Gone down into this thing's lore. I bet someone could make a great game off of this thread's remains when it dies. Really, I'm not joking, I would pay for it too. )) "Another viape, Noroyal." A medium built man said to Galtan. "Where? Have you made contact?" Galtan asked while bursting with excitement. "They should be reaching the islands today." He repiled. /// The ship approached the Akadia isles. ((Your cue, True.)) ((Whadda ya mean?)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16777	Posted - 2015.01.22 23:23:00 - [28] - Quote The Harbourscape of Rhen-Ys It wasn't particularly surprising for the for the ageing harbour-master of Rhen-Ys, as one amongst many of this rank within the the sprawling port-scape, when young Mila chose to raise her voice to announce the appearance of a lone ship on the horizon. They'd spend the morning scribing out the account of the Quater's annual tarriffs from the Avallier merchants, it was repetitive and boring work at the best of times and had been, he recalled to himself, much the same when he was the clerk to the former harbour-master. Mila always had sharp eyes and a perchant for spend much of the time she should have been recording his oratory gazing out the window at the masses of ships extending from the North Western cape of the Liytani Bay down through to the mouth of the Mur River. He sighed, tapped her desk to remind her of the task at hand. She blushed and began to scribble out the accounts of the most recent trade ships furiously across the scrap of parchment, huffing something about being cooped up under her breath. He ignored the last comment she made, though the title of Harbour-Master accorded Dammel a measure of respect amongst the sailors and merchants of the reason, he could not bring himself to discipline the spirited young woman since her sharp eyes were more a gift from Kalya in the maze that was Rhen-Ys. It certainly was a shame her father had volunteered her as his scribe during the trade seasons as he was sure she'd rather have been out on the Mur with the other youngsters. She'd voiced her opposition early on but had accepted her new role with a vigour that surprised him. Rather than dwell on the moment he instead took up a long spy glass stowed by the window and cast an eye across the ocean to the lone black shape on the horizon. A barbarian ship, he considered thoughtfully. It was brutish in design to his eyes, wholly unsuited for swift ocean travel the vessel would not gracefully skim the waters, instead it appeared to batter its way through the waves and currents with sheer bulk. "Emmyn" He called loudly out the window at a broad-shouldered man on the lower docks, pointing with a long finger out at the approaching shape. "Get a couple of Barges out to that vessel. Tow it in or find them anchorage. Tell them the harbour masters of this districts bids them welcome." Behind him Mila squealed with glee. "They're coming here? Wonderful! No more scribing!" "Quiet girl. Back to your numbers." He replied hurriedly, ignoring her groan of protest. "if you are done by the time the foreigners arrive you may accompany me as I greet them." Within minutes two sleek barges launched from the docks, Skadii sailors cutting a path out to the approaching ship the tides and winds shifting to suit their purpose, skilled hands adjusting their course. *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16781	Posted - 2015.01.23 02:02:00 - [29] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Just to show how little our continent actually is... Behold!)) ((Skadia is much smaller than that just for reference)) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16802	Posted - 2015.01.25 20:39:00 - [30] - Quote (( Been a rough weekend. Lemme put a post up in a min))) *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16804	Posted - 2015.01.25 22:33:00 - [31] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: "Ready the defenses!" The captain shouted. "Cancel, we shall see their intentions before we decide whether we should empty them of life." -Ñoi told the captain. "Ish, Cancel!" The captain shouted. The ships sailed as near as they could as the P.W.S Unity rolled up it's sails and slowed to a halt. The Paric were welcomed onto land. /// Crew on land. "Akai. I am -Ñoi from the Parabunny Nation." He held up a steel container of liquids, a Pini as named by it's creators. "By my family tradition, I would gift you this in hopes of good weather." He brought the Pini down and handed it to the stranger. "Kami blood, strong stuff with a sweet taste. I do warn that you don't drink it with an empty stomach, or that you believe it is real blood due to it's name and colour." He paused for a quick laugh. "Ah, well I am Head of Creed, -Ñoi, and you are?" His voice became smooth as he turned to see a young female, but still held the accent strongly. ((Paric often stretch out their 's's.)) Mila looked up at the foreigners as her Harbour Master accepted the steel container exchanging pleasantries with the their leader who addressed them with strange phrases than made no sense to her. She'd followed the Master down from their offices having hurriedly scribbled out the remaining copies of the trade records earning her a disapproving grunt from the master who'd used the time to adjust his thinning hair and don a formal mantle. Since the abolishment of the Foreign Quarters these would be the first to arrive in the Sy'thal Isles for anything more than small scale trading. The thought was truly exciting. The docks were a frenzy of activity as merchants and sailors rapidly began to gather at the landing. From the other room the Master boomed at her to make herself presentable and just before he bustled her out of the offices she managed to clutch at and gather her short-bow and quiver. They were nothing but children's toys suited for hunting small game on the rivers but she felt more comfortable with them. She picked out the foreigners from the upper docks but until no had not perceived just how different they were. As their party approached she had ducked behind the Master and chose to peek around him at the much taller men assembled by the docks. "We accept this gift by the Graces of Kalya, and bit you all welcome to Rhen-Ys and this harbour district. I am Harbour Master Dammel , representative of this district, responsible for the daily operations of our sailors. Be welcome here all of you and your kin." Announced the Master amidst nods of approval from the rapidly assembling merchants and sailors. He seemed unphased by the alienness of the men. " Please we have naught of true value to gift you with at this time but as is the wish of Prince Dontherys you shall all be given all our hospitality. If you so wish we can retire to the Hall to discuss your purpose in Rhen-Ys while we prepare a suitable git for exchange." *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16805	Posted - 2015.01.25 23:50:00 - [32] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: "Exchange is not needed for such a small gift." ((Yeah, couldn't think of anything fancy.)) " At-least let us offer your Oar-men food, respite, and a chance to trade." The Master beckoned for both the Creed's Head and his entourage as well as Mila to follow. He took her aside briefly removed the quiver her back and handed it to her. "What are you doing with this child?" He chided softly, noting the girls discomfort. " Take it off and go to see the servants at the Hall. See if we can get them ready for Yoi and his men...then get yourself something." With that she dashed off to the Hall and relayed the Master's instructions to the Matrons. *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16809	Posted - 2015.01.26 02:01:00 - [33] - Quote In the Kingdom of the Landborn Thane returns to the castle to view the last few fights as Krion wins the tournament. He congratulates him at the end of the competition and looks visibly relieved that the whole contest is over and done with. The ship of his Oar-Captain departs for the Angelis Islands in order to find samples of what the Skadii now understand to be steel-silk leaving Thane in the city to spend his time in the markets talking to merchants about trade, in the court libraries studying culture, and greeting nobles in their manner. *"He spoke, and we made it so all worlds were one, all peoples were one, all faiths, creeds, and nationalities were one.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16824	Posted - 2015.01.26 23:36:00 - [34] - Quote Spademan wrote: Eofor encounters Thane whilst he is adding additional manuscripts to the library, mostly compositions of manuscripts written by Squires about the valiant adventures of their Knights, which are then edited and compiled by Scholars. "Ahh, Envoy Thane, I see you've decided to stay a while longer. I've been making arrangements to deliver an Ambassador to Skadia. The Captain I've assigned wishes to take a fast warship, but I believe it'd be wiser to send a cargo ship. Much less threatening, and we can send some trade goods with them. If you have any questions about the kingdom please, don't hesitate to ask. Have you learned much thus far?" Thane looks up from the manuscript on Osmar history he has been reading (earlier sections of this thread) and noticed the Chancellor Eofor placing a number of manuscripts into the shelves of the library. " Chancellor?....oh pardon me. Good day to you." He replied, hearing out the Chancellor. " I have spent a great deal of time learning of your people your lordship..... their histories, their trade, their social structures. You are all very interesting. Fear not Osmarian Chancellor the people of Skadia fear nothing from the oceans.... whatever vessel you choose to send will be received warmly." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16895	Posted - 2015.01.30 00:11:00 - [35] - Quote Spademan wrote: (( Done. http://imgur.com/ainofqS It's smaller than the others, I could re-do it down the bottom unless it's Vash's territory (Pervious established thing that Howe was the closest Osmar county to it) )) ((Someone better put a ******* fortress between the ocean and the blue/purple border below Calimlight. That's just asking to be annexed)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16895	Posted - 2015.01.30 00:33:00 - [36] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: Spademan wrote: (( Done. http://imgur.com/ainofqS It's smaller than the others, I could re-do it down the bottom unless it's Vash's territory (Pervious established thing that Howe was the closest Osmar county to it) )) ((Someone better put a ******* fortress between the ocean and the blue/purple border below Calimlight. That's just asking to be annexed)) ((The Tal-Mans are actually losing the war against the Blood Raiders due to the vast numbers of the BR and their marksmen, I don't think they have to worry about a city. The Bloods outnumber us all, and the Blood Raiders make the Bloods look like nothing. Basically China vs Australia, but Bloods have room. )) ((Isolationism has its benefits.... I might do a full climatological,geological, demographic, and environmental run down for Skadia and the surrounding islands because Skurd next door will play and big part it the cultures development.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16895	Posted - 2015.01.30 00:48:00 - [37] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: Spademan wrote: (( Done. http://imgur.com/ainofqS It's smaller than the others, I could re-do it down the bottom unless it's Vash's territory (Pervious established thing that Howe was the closest Osmar county to it) )) ((Someone better put a ******* fortress between the ocean and the blue/purple border below Calimlight. That's just asking to be annexed)) ((The Tal-Mans are actually losing the war against the Blood Raiders due to the vast numbers of the BR and their marksmen, I don't think they have to worry about a city. The Bloods outnumber us all, and the Blood Raiders make the Bloods look like nothing. Basically China vs Australia, but Bloods have room. )) ((Isolationism has its benefits.... I might do a full climatological,geological, demographic, and environmental run down for Skadia and the surrounding islands because Skurd next door will play and big part it the cultures development.)) ((Check my edit. Oh, and the wild-lands are actually vast forests and swamps with the occasional plain.)) Time for a bit of tech development on my peoples part.....we're apparently lagging behind. "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16910	Posted - 2015.02.01 19:59:00 - [38] - Quote ((I'll make a post for both Thane and Skadia but I was kinda under the impresison Raven was going to set the pace for his dudes in Skadia)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16918	Posted - 2015.02.02 00:31:00 - [39] - Quote ((Deal? Why deal when conflict is much more entertaining.....wait I shouldn't say that...my country has **** all in the way of trained soldiers.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16918	Posted - 2015.02.02 00:44:00 - [40] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: So wait your men are trained good? Or not good? If they would be good we would take them for part in a coastline assault where we could see what you would want in return. (( My people are meek. They've never experienced conflict since they drove the Skurd from their Harbors years ago and are appalled by violence..... we'd need a reason to fight people before anything happens.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16945	Posted - 2015.02.03 22:46:00 - [41] - Quote ((Yo Raven would the Angelis Islanders be willing to trade their steel fabric armour stuff with the Skadii or are they already those dudes who turned up the other day? And if not its cool Just need to know if the Oar Master came back with what he wanted or not)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 16976	Posted - 2015.02.04 03:21:00 - [42] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((Yo Raven would the Angelis Islanders be willing to trade their steel fabric armour stuff with the Skadii or are they already those dudes who turned up the other day? And if not its cool Just need to know if the Oar Master came back with what he wanted or not)) ((They are a very peaceful people when looking at regular people. Soldiers are breed for war from birth. Anyway, they will likely ask for knowledge in return, history of your people and Isles, ship building, or just scrolls (even if it is just like something that is fiction. It is knowledge to them.) They could also be known for their Skifs that glide across the water with the help of 5 manually operated propellers, and one small sail.)) ((Pretty much kinda of what my ships do except more conventionally.... I've kind of been playing cautious with the stuff I've posted about now until now but once you guys properly get into Skadia I think you'll like what's there. I have some wonderful ideas in mind for eventual warships, armament for my people's soldiers, a combat doctrine and lots of intrigue for the islands around Skadia. But sure we're more than happy to swap knowledge and valuables but ship design remain off the table...... we don't know enough about any of you to compromise the integrity of our ship designs.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17022	Posted - 2015.02.08 22:40:00 - [43] - Quote ((**** what happened over the weekend while I was gone? Can we still supply blockading ships or is the stuffs done with?)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17022	Posted - 2015.02.08 22:43:00 - [44] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((**** what happened over the weekend while I was gone? Can we still supply blockading ships or is the stuffs done with?)) ((Bloods lost their war, attacks are pushing the Tal-Man away from Calimight. All the leaders have been sent an invitation to Skyreach, a large building constructed for debate, in Kraigsline.)) ((Oh well I can continue being neutral then!)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17026	Posted - 2015.02.08 22:57:00 - [45] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((** what happened over the weekend while I was gone? Can we still supply blockading ships or is the stuffs done with?)) ((Bloods lost their war, attacks are pushing the Tal-Man away from Calimight. All the leaders have been sent an invitation to Skyreach, a large building constructed for debate, in Kraigsline.)) ((Oh well I can continue being neutral then!)) ((Ha, Should I add you to the list? Let's see here... Parabunny Nation, check. Akadia, Check. Unknowns, check. Angelis, Check. )) ((Don't worry one of these days we'll stop by to up your *!)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."*
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17027	Posted - 2015.02.08 23:07:00 - [46] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: (Looking over the list of neutrals I shall begin the paper work becoming a servant state) Hopefully True, I will be able to change your mind at the Skyreach. (( Perhaps you yet will. I find myself inclined to commit Skadia to a conflict even if on a small scale to show solidarity for the other peoples of the continent. It'll take time to militarise but working with other nations will certainly aid in pressing Skadia forwards as a nation. BTW what season is it in Blooder lands? Here we come Dreadnaughts and riflemen presuming we can either find a means to produce black powder or trade with someone. )) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17028	Posted - 2015.02.08 23:47:00 - [47] - Quote With the outbreak of the hostilities against the Blooder Lands Prince Dontherys refuses to commit his people to a conflict without understanding to political nature of the Blood Raider peoples, and refuses to compromise the safety of envoys still in their lands. He instead chooses to support the Osmari war efforts sending ships from his lands with provisions and suitable clothing to the Queen to be sold at cost allowing the Osmari to choose between using their own merchants and produces and cheaper foreign imports. Understanding the nature of the conflict he chooses to attend the conference as Skyreach alongside several dignitaries from close allies Avallier, Rhistvalla, and Myhriyah. Before the Summit "My Prince you must understand what this could mean for my peoples country." The Rhistvallan Ambassador. "These hostilities could well be what would bring peace between us and those Skurdan barbardians.... we could put them to USE, My Prince." "You would commit the Isles to a War Ambassador? We are not a people to whom conflict comes naturally." Replied the Prince scathingly, watching with a certain satisfaction as his the Ambassador flinched visibly with shame. "Perhaps then a token force will suffice, Liege. Our War Effort need not be large, and the Companies can bear the brunt of the conflict if we can supply suitable fleet...." Suggested the robed Myhri Thainess. "There is much influence to be gained in trade during war time....." "Avallier will serve at your word Prince. Death or Glory, Ruin or Reign." Replied the flamboyantly garbed Avallii Chevalier. ((Sorry just wanted to show the political situation of the Isles. Even within the Isles each island has its culture and its own angle. Rhistvalla is our most militarised state because it wars with the Skurd. The Avallier are sycophants as their Dukes second cousin is the wife of the Prince and they hope to sit an heir on the throne. The Myhri are the prolific traders and worshippers of the Ocean Gods)) At the Summit The Prince clears his throat waiting for a pause in the conversation. "Lord and Ladies this is unseemly. Surely we did not come to summit to case dispersion against one another's motivations in the face of these "hostilities". For the sake of our continued negotiations shall we address the current nature of the incident. If it please you how fares the efforts against these Blood Raiders?" "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17030	Posted - 2015.02.09 01:33:00 - [48] - Quote "Apologies Tyran and Prime Minister but at present the only tangible danger here is the threat of an invasion and conflict by your peoples. Let us not derail these talks with petty threats and moralizations of our goals." Martyn cleared his throat again. "As new as the Isles are to the the political sphere even we must object to force as a means of conflict resolution. Even were allied and bordering nations content to allow you both to settle their differences without intervention what guarantee do you offer that either side would stop seeking conquest or that you would leave our lands and peoples free from this conflict?" "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17032	Posted - 2015.02.09 03:17:00 - [49] - Quote "Yet I understand there is some civil distress in the lands of the Tal-Man...." Offered the Prince pointedly. "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17035	Posted - 2015.02.09 03:48:00 - [50] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: True Adamance wrote: "Yet I understand there is some civil distress in the lands of the Tal-Man...." Offered the Prince pointedly. Were... All civil disorder has ended in Tal-Man lands as we reached peace. And all was contained in Tal-Man besides the help from the Osmar. "These are your assurances then?" Martyn sighed, defeated. Likely these such was the very cause of their neighbour's concerns and they were well warranted concerns. A fractious former state reformed under progressive liberal ideals with aid or an external foreign power. "And what does our Lady, Queen Aeschild say on the matter?" "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17041	Posted - 2015.02.09 21:22:00 - [51] - Quote Man of Spade wrote: True Adamance wrote: Vash Warren wrote: True Adamance wrote: "Yet I understand there is some civil distress in the lands of the Tal-Man...." Offered the Prince pointedly. Were... All civil disorder has ended in Tal-Man lands as we reached peace. And all was contained in Tal-Man besides the help from the Osmar. "These are your assurances then?" Martyn sighed, defeated. Likely these such was the very cause of their neighbour's concerns and they were well warranted concerns. A fractious former state reformed under progressive liberal ideals with aid or an external foreign power. "And what does our Lady, Queen Aeschild say on the matter?" "Regarding the Tal-Man unrest, Earl Gudram acted alone, though I commend him for doing so. On the matter of the war, I would like to request that the Tyran and the Prime Minister sign a truce, with the Blood Raiders paying reparations for the damage they have done." "So the intervention was not your own command My Queen?" The Prince surmised. " I can understand everyone's consternation surrounding these hostilities but My Queen surely cannot allow this precedent to stand.....your man intervened in a foreign conflict without your sanction and chose a side for you. Morality and cultural bias aside the Tyran has more than enough cause for concern..... that you support this action AND wish to impose sanctions is suspect to say the least." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17043	Posted - 2015.02.09 21:47:00 - [52] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Internet went out last night. Had a large post too. sigh some things just are not meant to be I guess.)) ((You might get to make it again if the conversation circles back to pointless accusations and rambling moralizations based purely on cultural bias..... I AM JUSTICE NO I AM JUSTICE NO WAY BRO I SAID I WAS PFFF YOU DON'T EVEN KNOW WHAT THAT IS)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17043	Posted - 2015.02.09 22:07:00 - [53] - Quote ((Should have shut my mouth....where's the war at? Also considering this what is a normal sized standing army on the Continent? I have no doubt I'm going to have to suspend my disbelief for the numbers involved.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17045	Posted - 2015.02.09 22:22:00 - [54] - Quote "If I may say my Lord's perhaps it is time we suspend the negotiation. In a fortnights time my Nation will celebrate its Festival venerating the Ocean Goddess in the capital Errecist. I beg you all postpone continued hostilities until the festival is over at which time re-establish these negotiations on neutral ground and make your decision after time is given to consider the outcome of such a wide spread conflict." ((Still how big is an army considered to be in this world? 50,000? 10,000? 1,000,000? Oh god if its the later......)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17046	Posted - 2015.02.09 22:52:00 - [55] - Quote Spademan wrote: "A fine idea Prince, I believe a ceasefire would be ideal" (( Mostly a post for this. Comparing it to realworld and then adjusting for a continent much larger than Europe I'd estimate 70-100 thousand on the high ends )) ((God as long as these numbers are kept within reason I can actually have my nations force remain small but relevant)) The Prince turned to address Prime Minister Ivan, looking thoughtful. "Perhaps...... an immediate secession of the contested lands as outlined in the cease fire as well as minimal trade sanctions on the signatory states as imposed by a joint number of witnessing nations. Until the dispute is seen to by the nations....for good or ill the lands themselves are to represent a demilitarised zone of non aggression." I trust this would keep both parties in line if the terms are agreeable. "I trust that you will keep you military under control Prime Minister Ivan, a strong hand such as your own is necessary to curb any future aggressive movements from the Blood Raiders. Incidents at this crucial time cannot be allowed to occur." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17056	Posted - 2015.02.09 23:41:00 - [56] - Quote ((Says nothing and waits for plot development....)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17058	Posted - 2015.02.09 23:55:00 - [57] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Vash Warren wrote: "... We shall need the land for the DMZ to be taken = from both Raiders and Tal-Man and as well that prisoners are to be returned in Tal-Man lands and into the protection of the Peace Core. And we still have the issue of southern Tal-Man now as the Blood Raiders now have a direct link to us on 2 fronts. I believe the road to peace can be started this way." "Yet we have not attack once from there despite it's possibilities. I wo..." He was cut off as Aurix came in. "Your man?" "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17058	Posted - 2015.02.10 00:33:00 - [58] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: Vash Warren wrote: "... We shall need the land for the DMZ to be taken = from both Raiders and Tal-Man and as well that prisoners are to be returned in Tal-Man lands and into the protection of the Peace Core. And we still have the issue of southern Tal-Man now as the Blood Raiders now have a direct link to us on 2 fronts. I believe the road to peace can be started this way." "Yet we have not attack once from there despite it's possibilities. I wo..." He was cut off as Aurix came in. "Your man?" "I am not, I am Aurix. I rule the Angelis alongside Angelise." Aurix speaks. ((God I want to make a smart arse comment about this)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17083	Posted - 2015.02.10 22:38:00 - [59] - Quote The Prince sighed loudly. "Several months ago your people would have never had a knowledge of what my own peoples vessels would have looked like.... why does this strange ship cow you so?" "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17083	Posted - 2015.02.10 23:05:00 - [60] - Quote "Perhaps then we should. I'd much like to see this strangelander ship as you called it." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17117	Posted - 2015.02.11 23:29:00 - [61] - Quote ((Hmmmm interesting.... but please tell me you didn't introduce a new nation with a focus on ships into the plot simply to have a group better than mine who deal with ships for a convenient silver bullet scenario later...... huzzah paranoia reigns)) As Martyn stepped out of the docks he let out a slight grunt of apporval. The ship was certainly large, much greater in bulk than the small square rigger clipper his entourage had arrived in, and languished nearly one hundred spans out in the water as small paddled toward them. He estimated looking at them that they ship was of a roughly similar size to one of the Sy'thal barques which usually policed the waters around Skurd and certainly smaller than the Skadii Thalasse being being housed in Rhen-Ys. "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17119	Posted - 2015.02.11 23:36:00 - [62] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((Hmmmm interesting.... but please tell me you didn't introduce a new nation with a focus on ships into the plot simply to have a group better than mine who deal with ships for a convenient silver bullet scenario later...... huzzah paranoia reigns)) As Martyn stepped out of the docks he let out a slight grunt of apporval. The ship was certainly large, much greater in bulk than the small square rigger clipper his entourage had arrived in, and languished nearly one hundred spans out in the water as small paddled toward them. He estimated looking at them that they ship was of a roughly similar size to one of the Sy'thal barques which usually policed the waters around Skurd and certainly smaller than the Skadii Thalasse being being housed in Rhen-Ys. ((IF it is a counter measure then I want tanks powered by horse manure to counter the Blood Raiders. With no way to beat it ever... GOD MOD FOR THE WIN!)) (( Nah God modding is insanely boring and not much fun..... I was under some kind to organised attack to prompt war as opposed to another new entity that oddly has a similar but apparently superior technology to my own amongst other conveniences plus if I'm not mistake tanks/heavy vehicles are you nations military weakness.......)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17119	Posted - 2015.02.11 23:44:00 - [63] - Quote Spademan wrote: (( So seeing as how my nations speciality was taken again I suppose I'll need another one. )) The Queen examined this new ship. It was large, though in her mind it seemed impractical. Osmar large ships are slow enough as it is, this beast would surely be far too cumbersome. "You understand him Lord Vin? How far have they come?" ((You are a trade/naval nation like I am? Didn't know sorry. In hind sight I realised I created the New Zealand of this RP simply because there didn't appear to be any dedicated naval powers in the RP)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17119	Posted - 2015.02.11 23:50:00 - [64] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: ((his is more naval. I have always tried to be the trade based nation as well)) ((**** I realise how poorly designed my nation is then..... had I known.... and probably should not have made certain assumptions based on the inclusion of Russia themed content and knights.... hell I could have made my people live under water... or been like fish people Damn in hindsight that would have been a great idea. Living far away on islands with a natural affinity for water and certain evolutionary traits that meant their society was based around it. However because they are use the ocean so much they could not use tools like black powder weapons.....)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17119	Posted - 2015.02.11 23:59:00 - [65] - Quote Spademan wrote: True Adamance wrote: Spademan wrote: (( So seeing as how my nations speciality was taken again I suppose I'll need another one. )) The Queen examined this new ship. It was large, though in her mind it seemed impractical. Osmar large ships are slow enough as it is, this beast would surely be far too cumbersome. "You understand him Lord Vin? How far have they come?" ((You are a trade/naval nation like I am? Didn't know sorry. In hind sight I realised I created the New Zealand of this RP simply because there didn't appear to be any dedicated naval powers in the RP)) (( More Naval combat than trade, when you came it wasn't much of an issue because yours were about manoeuvrability, so I figured mine would be the big ones. More Man'o'War and Ship of the line. )) ((Thats a super huge turn off now that I know with minimal edits I could theoretically completely retcon the nation but into what I don't know since I did have all of their development planned out into the Duster Age with plenty of room for all the other rules and stuff attached to war. Meh it won't matter too much though I've got some ideas about how to keep Skadia and the Isles distinct...also Spade be warned I'm brushing up in Naval Tactcs now that I know about Osmar )) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17119	Posted - 2015.02.12 00:36:00 - [66] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Calm down. That is a large ship designed for traveling long distances. Not at all a naval nation or trade. Anyone want to help with the new name?)) ((I'm all G I just want us to decide if there's going to be a war on)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17119	Posted - 2015.02.12 00:38:00 - [67] - Quote Spademan wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((Thats a super huge turn off now that I know with minimal edits I could theoretically completely retcon the nation but into what I don't know since I did have all of their development planned out into the Duster Age with plenty of room for all the other rules and stuff attached to war. Meh it won't matter too much though I've got some ideas about how to keep Skadia and the Isles distinct...also Spade be warned I'm brushing up in Naval Tactcs now that I know about Osmar )) EDIT: Also don't worry about the Thalassae they're to be converted merchant ships intended to be used for massed trade agreements with your nations but repurposed for war not real warships. If we are using RL ship sizes they would be between 75-80m long though I don't yet know if that's a fair size according to this world or inclusive of the pointy thing at the front of the ship. ((Just to let you know, that's actually pretty huge for a ship. For example, the Galleon, which my ships are evolving into, goes to 50m at the high end. For trade vessels you could take real world ships such as the Dutch Fluyt which were about 20-30 metres long. And I think the word you're looking for is Bowsprit )) ((Ah yeah I've walked the decks of a couple but again in this fantasy world which apparently have flying fortresses amongst other things I don't know about yet I kinda wanted to be safe. I did look at a number of ship sizes and chose one that wasn't the largest known IRL but not too small a one because I figured WTF fantasy. Now I know how big they are they can be scaled properly)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17119	Posted - 2015.02.12 01:02:00 - [68] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: ((we should set up a ship system. Because it sounds like. Super vessel Gallon War Ships (ship o the line) Frigate like ships both trade and war Caravel more trade and Slope speedy and trade small amounts with some war possible)) ((Let's just use conventional ship sizes so KNOW how big they are. Anything special just flog it down later. For example Skadii Ship Aesthetic - http://radojavor.deviantart.com/art/Battle-Ship-48221884 What I imagine Osmari Ships look like - http://www.desktopwallpapers4.me/fantasy/pirate-ships-20496/ What I had in mind with the Thalassae was a bigger caste of ship with an extra deck or guns or even catapults/ ballistae on a wide deck the kind of think that would normally be a design feature of having a larger hold for cargo but fitted instead for combat purposes....perhaps also a troop carrier. Anywho as I've asked what the **** is going on? War? This became too complex too quickly.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17136	Posted - 2015.02.12 21:33:00 - [69] - Quote (( Dunno what you want to call them but call their country Bouze...... no one names their places like that!)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17137	Posted - 2015.02.12 22:12:00 - [70] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Bouze? Maybe a different one. Solsunt is the country name. Anyway, can someone throw an IC out?)) ((Well you are RPing the new guys and two of the major factions and are the only ones who can understand these guys...... I would but there's not much to be said from me until we get back to the negotiations)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17141	Posted - 2015.02.12 22:51:00 - [71] - Quote "Young Lord" said the prince, directing his voice at Krion. " You seem to understand the outlanders do you not? Also from the reactions of your men you do not recognise them or perhaps their language.....ask them...if you can from where they hail? Mine own people have ventured far from their own shored but never come across a vessel of this like until now." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17150	Posted - 2015.02.13 01:48:00 - [72] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Vash Warren wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: "Hmm? Oh, yes sire. I understand their language, mostly, due to giving shelter to a disclaimed sailor. He had met them in his sails, spent some time on their land, and came back to find Revon assassinated, and his home in chaos. From his words the land they hail from is far east from here and is lush jungles." ((what is the climate of this land mass then?)) Well that is very impressive... But when you returned why did you not spread the news of these new people... I would have funded a whole fleet to go across the globe to find others. "One does not take in a man rumoured to be insane, learn his language, and try to find a people even he does not know well. I only learnt it because at the time we were dormant in politics and such." "Speaking of such things we do have pressing concerns of our own and if I am not mistaken our Lady Galtan has issues in her homeland need attending to. Shall we conclude our negotiations or agree to reconvene after the Festival of Kalya in Errecist?" "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17164	Posted - 2015.02.14 23:32:00 - [73] - Quote (( Okay this will sound like me being an ass and that's the point..... how can you skip over important talks between all nations without resolution....that's just plain bad story telling. SOMEONE of the two needs to make a decision if war will happen or not and just roll with it. Skipping weeks on ahead without warning leaves the rest of us basically scabbling understand the general direction of the RP)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17167	Posted - 2015.02.15 08:53:00 - [74] - Quote "Then if the negotiations are to be concluded at a later date I, and the representatives of Skadia big you fare well. Prime Minister Ivan perhaps you would walk with me for a moment if you care to." With that he strode out onto the docks looking out over the water as his own clipper sailed into view. "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17167	Posted - 2015.02.16 10:13:00 - [75] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: "I will walk with you, I just love to walk by the sea. My work usually keeps me from being able from times of rest. Is there something you wish to discuss?" Ivan asked as he walked slowly next to the representative. "Since my decree to revoke Skadia's isolationist policies I constantly been beset by reports from our envoys and trading groups that tell me my own people are perhaps some of the least developed in all of the known world. Perhaps not in the ways of sailing, artistry, or agriculture but certainly in our military might. " The Prince sighed deeply, not truly wish to have to asking, but knowing such discussions were a necessity. "Have you heard much of my country Prime Minister? It is such a wonderful.....and peaceful place. Fields and rivers as far as the eye can see. The serenity of the Mur lake, or the industry of Rhen-Ys habour sprawl. My people have little stomach for violence.....their thoughts are on what the tides or prevailing winds might bring more so than..... ah but I digress...." Before them the clipper slowly sailed into dock. "We have not choice but to ask now that the negotiations will take place in Skadia to ask for foreign assistance in ensuring the peace is kept. We cannot directly ask for one side of the other to house a guard in our lands or risk the validity of these talks. However that being said we must have some foot to stand upon in the coming days. As such we hope to engage the services of former soldiers and mercenaries to instruct our own forces..... however the issue is not one of instruction.....but supply....." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17184	Posted - 2015.02.19 10:48:00 - [76] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: True Adamance wrote: Vash Warren wrote: "I will walk with you, I just love to walk by the sea. My work usually keeps me from being able from times of rest. Is there something you wish to discuss?" Ivan asked as he walked slowly next to the representative. "Since my decree to revoke Skadia's isolationist policies I constantly been beset by reports from our envoys and trading groups that tell me my own people are perhaps some of the least developed in all of the known world. Perhaps not in the ways of sailing, artistry, or agriculture but certainly in our military might. " The Prince sighed deeply, not truly wish to have to asking, but knowing such discussions were a necessity. "Have you heard much of my country Prime Minister? It is such a wonderful.....and peaceful place. Fields and rivers as far as the eye can see. The serenity of the Mur lake, or the industry of Rhen-Ys habour sprawl. My people have little stomach for violence.....their thoughts are on what the tides or prevailing winds might bring more so than..... ah but I digress...." Before them the clipper slowly sailed into dock. "We have not choice but to ask now that the negotiations will take place in Skadia to ask for foreign assistance in ensuring the peace is kept. We cannot directly ask for one side of the other to house a guard in our lands or risk the validity of these talks. However that being said we must have some foot to stand upon in the coming days. As such we hope to engage the services of former soldiers and mercenaries to instruct our own forces..... however the issue is not one of instruction.....but supply....." "I see... While I can not say I have heard much I do know from what reports tell me that you are a peaceful people. And while we do not have the best ships as I believe that belongs to your people or the Osmars, my people are among the best marksmen in the world. Not as to brag but our horse mounted warriors are near unbeatable." Ivan ran his hands through his hair thinking before speaking again. "My people could offer services in instruction, but my troops are tied up and are not able to assist you now. But in the near future I could promise that my people's production of weapons and other supplies needed for war is unmatched by any of the other nations... Besides the barbarians. I, with peace, would offer my people's services in exchange for something we may discuss later. But I am afraid as well that to offer this now would only draw you into this war, as you said, which I wish not. But maybe one day peace will be restored. "It is not a matter of the training sir. I require no men. Merely rifle and cannon in bulk.....and if perhaps you cannot spare any then I must look elsewhere. My people cannot continue to sit back and meekly accept the edicts of other nations." A sigh. "My people are na+»ve, and I do not say that to be cruel, but they are a gentle and unused to conflict. It is my duty as their Prince to ensure they are ready to stand on the same level as the other nations. It does not matter how. Only that we can." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17199	Posted - 2015.02.22 22:39:00 - [77] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: True Adamance wrote: Vash Warren wrote: True Adamance wrote: Vash Warren wrote: "I will walk with you, I just love to walk by the sea. My work usually keeps me from being able from times of rest. Is there something you wish to discuss?" Ivan asked as he walked slowly next to the representative. "Since my decree to revoke Skadia's isolationist policies I constantly been beset by reports from our envoys and trading groups that tell me my own people are perhaps some of the least developed in all of the known world. Perhaps not in the ways of sailing, artistry, or agriculture but certainly in our military might. " The Prince sighed deeply, not truly wish to have to asking, but knowing such discussions were a necessity. "Have you heard much of my country Prime Minister? It is such a wonderful.....and peaceful place. Fields and rivers as far as the eye can see. The serenity of the Mur lake, or the industry of Rhen-Ys habour sprawl. My people have little stomach for violence.....their thoughts are on what the tides or prevailing winds might bring more so than..... ah but I digress...." Before them the clipper slowly sailed into dock. "We have not choice but to ask now that the negotiations will take place in Skadia to ask for foreign assistance in ensuring the peace is kept. We cannot directly ask for one side of the other to house a guard in our lands or risk the validity of these talks. However that being said we must have some foot to stand upon in the coming days. As such we hope to engage the services of former soldiers and mercenaries to instruct our own forces..... however the issue is not one of instruction.....but supply....." "I see... While I can not say I have heard much I do know from what reports tell me that you are a peaceful people. And while we do not have the best ships as I believe that belongs to your people or the Osmars, my people are among the best marksmen in the world. Not as to brag but our horse mounted warriors are near unbeatable." Ivan ran his hands through his hair thinking before speaking again. "My people could offer services in instruction, but my troops are tied up and are not able to assist you now. But in the near future I could promise that my people's production of weapons and other supplies needed for war is unmatched by any of the other nations... Besides the barbarians. I, with peace, would offer my people's services in exchange for something we may discuss later. But I am afraid as well that to offer this now would only draw you into this war, as you said, which I wish not. But maybe one day peace will be restored. "It is not a matter of the training sir. I require no men. Merely rifle and cannon in bulk.....and if perhaps you cannot spare any then I must look elsewhere. My people cannot continue to sit back and meekly accept the edicts of other nations." A sigh. "My people are na+»ve, and I do not say that to be cruel, but they are a gentle and unused to conflict. It is my duty as their Prince to ensure they are ready to stand on the same level as the other nations. It does not matter how. Only that we can." "Gaining munitions and other supplies of the sort to trade with you and your people would not be the problem. I am afraid that if what you say is true about your people, and I send you weapons then what would the reappraisal be from the Bloods? If they believe that this is part of a deal to get you into the war... It could very well pull your people in." Looking up into the sky, Ivan sucked in a breath of the sea air. "But if it is a risk you can take... I will not decide it for you. I will send a large trading vessel with the supplies to begin negotiations. "Many thanks Prime Minister. I thank you for your consideration. Perhaps in time we shall foster a dear friendship between our nations. Kalya guide you until we meet again mine native land." With that the Prince steps aboard the Clipper and makes ready to depart. Upon the deck stands a man, his arm covered with thick leather bindings upon which perched a Great-Sea Hawk. The Prince hastily scribbles down a note. " Thane I ask you to stay with the Landborn a while longer, the festival shall be the site of our next summit. I must have a vassal present in their lands to foster relations. Enclosed is a personal seal of House Dontherys as well as authority for you to use it in the bartering of commodities from the main lands. We shall send weekly vessels from the Isles, they are to be your caravan until such as time as we have concluded this business with the Tal-Man and Blood Raiders. Regards Martyn Don't stray too far from the ocean boy." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17225	Posted - 2015.02.23 23:08:00 - [78] - Quote ((What's the name of your diplomat back at the capital Spade?)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17287	Posted - 2015.02.25 23:11:00 - [79] - Quote The silence of one of the peaceful courtyards in the Osmari capital city is shatter by a high pitched avian piping and a sudden rush of feathers as a vast shaped descended upon the open garden. The massive Great-Ocean Hawk landed on one of the wooden balustrades tearing into the wood with several inch long talons causing more than a few mild cries for the city guards. Amongst the Isle the Great-Ocean Hawks were the largest of the birds, bearing a wingspan of some 3 metres and were fiercely territorial of the ordinarily unscalable shards of basalt rock that jutted up in the southern oceans of the archipelago. Those present were taken aback, and despite having seen such creatures before in Errecist, even Thane tumbled back out of his seat in shock, kicking over the table at which he sat and scattering the many book and scraps of parchment he had been reading. A moment later he got up, approached the bird keeping his eyes down, and drew from the small cannister around its leg a small note. He read the noticed carefully surprised at the contents, very much so aware of the eyes of a rapidly assembling crowd of civilians and city officer on him. "Ummmm. You wouldn't mind watching him would you?" He said sheepishly to a very perplexed city guardsman after reading the message and packing away the books and parchment he had kicked over. "He won't hurt anyone....shouldn't at least. But it would be best to keep any dogs or cats inside for the time being." "You stay here too Sieg. Don't eat anyone's animals okay." With that he rapidly departed for the castle, located Eofor's clerk, and organised an appointment for when the Chancellor was free. "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17322	Posted - 2015.02.27 02:31:00 - [80] - Quote In the Sy'thal Isles...... The first trade ships from the Tal-Man territories arrive in Skadia and a welcomed by the local people, especially in Myhriyah and Rhistvalla. The Prince, now returned to his lands, offers the traders a generous sum in material wealth for the weapons ranging from fabrics, to minerals, and trade goods from the wildlife around the Isles and awaits their acceptance. He also promises to send trade ships on the monthly basis to the Tal-Man harbours if such is their wish with other goods. In the Harbours of Rhen-Ys a number of merchant sailors are preparing to sail South with the tides on the order of the Princess who in Martyn's absence taken to rule the country in her husband's stead. Meanwhile in Osmar Thane sits patiently awaiting the Chancellor. "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17330	Posted - 2015.02.27 11:04:00 - [81] - Quote Advancement: Now that a trade agreement has been established with the Tal-Man for trade of Cannon and Musket the Skadii have the means to field a small, inexperienced, but conventional military force. Study of the Tal-Man designs is underway in Myhriyah to attempt to replicate the technology but will take some time to complete. "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17371	Posted - 2015.03.01 10:48:00 - [82] - Quote (( Technology wise Skadia has no real knowledge of mechanical engineering beyond its sailing related stuff and has only just attained a supply of conventional military weapons [I suppose the catalyst for future development as we all push along] I'm also pretty sure I stated fabrics and textiles were big Skadi commodities. In terms of tech I was considering looking into to introducing rubber but didn't want to get ahead of myself. It's kind of a developmental step back that we did not have that war since I was so looking forwards to potentially researching those Carrions.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17442	Posted - 2015.03.04 00:14:00 - [83] - Quote In Osmar....... Thane continues to sit patiently until the Chancellor has seen to his meeting with the nobles, mulling over the contents of letter from his Prince clasped tightly in his hands. With the meeting complete the Clerk gestures for the Skadii envoy to enter. Thane does so bowing to the chancellor, and presents himself before the older man. " Greetings Chancellor Eofor" he announced "I, of the Two Rivers, have received word from the Prince and the Summit. It seems that the negotiations have dissolved to be reconvened in Errecist after the Festival of Kalya." He cleared his throat. "This however is not why I have come before you Lord Chancellor. Under the authority of my Prince I have been named vassal and official foreign envoy to your lands, with all the rights and responsibilities that the role entails....as such. I would like to enquire into my own personal rights as a foreign dignitary in your nation.....and the potential of buying property in your cities....." In Skadia...... The Harbour Master and Sephrena [previously named Mila] continue to entertain the Parabunny travellers, hosting them in the Trade House Apartments where they are free to move throughout the southern harbourscapes of Rhen-Ys as they will. Dammel has spent much time talking with Yoi as the foreigner would grant him and took a liking to the "Kami Blood". Sephrena found herself spending more time around the serpent-like foreigners, and despite not feeling comfortable around them, enjoyed the change of pace spending more time on the harbourscapes as a guide, messenger, and ship-hand, than as clerk. Until...... She spies a foreign ship on the horizon, neither one of the Parabunnies, nor of the Osmar which she has been told be returning sailors great sea-faring vessels. She watches as barges set sail from half a dozen districts, all competing for the right to host the guests, smiling with satisfaction as her own districts vessels cut through the water ahead to reach the boat first. Brought into harbour she offers her respects to its captain and with Dammel surveys the good brought into harbour. Contained within massive crates are a a foreign series of metal tubes mounted upon wooden stocks, a number of heavy sealed casks, and massive engraved steel barrels with weighted hunks of iron. "What in Kalya's name are these?" She asked, hefting one out of a crate cradling the heavy rifle awkwardly tapping the wooden stock against the side of a cannon. Similar examples of the instruments appeared all over the ship, below the decks, and in the hands of several sailors. "Put it down Phrena" the harbour master muttered disapprovingly. "These are marked for the Royal Warehouses, they are not our business." "C'mon Dammel.... what are they? Some kind of metal bow or something?" She asked,reaching into the barrel of one of the cannons tracing contours the wrought metal. She glanced down at one of the cannon balls with a curious expression " Um..... so what? This..... fires...... one of those things? Gotta be a weapon right!...But what are we doing carting them to the Royal Warehouses?" The Harbour Master sighed in a defeated manner. The girl was too sharp for her own good, and more to the point right. These were weapon that far exceeded anything he'd ever seen in his forty years as a merchant sailor. He felt the beginnings of a migraine coming on but pushed on organising his crew to transport the goods, all the while wishing he had thought to bring a small vial of the "Kami Blood" Yoi had given him. "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17445	Posted - 2015.03.04 02:51:00 - [84] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Roll: 2 Target: Skadians Event: Severe storms strike the Isles, making sea travel near impossible. "Yoi, there's going to be another storm tonight!" A crewman warned. "Alright, I shall alert the Harbour Master of yet another storm." Yoi stood from his seat and walked towards the door. 5 minutes later "Aliki, I would like to warn of yet another storm tonight." Yoi warned. ((Apologies, the skip was perhaps a week at most, a day at least. Also Aliki is often used to greet a person.)) ((Lol y'know what this plays into the role perfectly. This is taken directly from my notes sheet on Skadia..... KalyaGÇÖs Malice- The embittered storms that rage during the start of Autumn in Skadia which prevent all ocean travel as they storms have no eye that can be navigated to. Festival of Kayla- A particular event celebrating the end of the tumultuous storm seasons and symbolic of the rebirth of prosperous trading between is the Isles. DICE GODS HAVE YOU NOT FORSAKEN ME?!)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17445	Posted - 2015.03.04 03:00:00 - [85] - Quote (( Raven could/ would you email me a copy of the rolls table or do you tailor make it top each specific nation? Just wondering because you could put some really more generic and surprising results in there which players including yourself, have to react to. Emergence of Thermal activity beneath a lake, turning the lake or river into a tourist attraction. Vicious Coastal Storms that prevent ocean travel and damage local docks. Local Lord has claimed a special animal to your people and presents it to your ruler advancing him in society Scholars have discovered old texts undermining you central faith incensing local communities against them Etc. Only wondering since the result seemed perfectly suited for me, which admittedly I like. Also how long are my ships grounded? A day? A week?)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17462	Posted - 2015.03.04 23:08:00 - [86] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Roll: 2 Target: Skadians Event: Severe storms strike the Isles, making sea travel near impossible. "Yoi, there's going to be another storm tonight!" A crewman warned. "Alright, I shall alert the Harbour Master of yet another storm." Yoi stood from his seat and walked towards the door. 5 minutes later "Aliki, I would like to warn of yet another storm tonight." Yoi warned. ((Apologies, the skip was perhaps a week at most, a day at least. Also Aliki is often used to greet a person.)) The Harbour Master had just seen to the payment of the Tal-Man when Yoi found him upon the docks, looking out across the harbour scape as a wall of thick cloud raves towards them, thunder rumbling within its vastness, and flashes of lightning on the far horizon. He turned to face the serpentlike man, nodd as the warning was relayed to him. Sephrena had taken over leading the carts to the Royal Warehouses some twenty minutes prior, demanding that the workmen carrying the heavily laden carts, packed with iron cannon and rifles keep up with her youthful pace. He frowned, rubbing at his temples nervously. "These bloody storms don't normally manifest at this time of year" he explained to Yoi absently ambling slowly back towards a warm light being emitted from the Trade Hall. Even now the native Skadii worked with reknewed purpose boarding up the ocean facing windows and securing cargo in safe locations. "They seem to be drawing out......getting more violent and more starting later in the season and growing more frequent with each passing year you see. This one is particularly disturbing so close to the festival of Kalya. Worry not Yoi you and yours are welcome here as long as you see fit to stay, as are the Tal-Man" he announced loudly passing several of the sailors. "Tell your Captain, you will not want to wait this out on board your ships. I'll have some of my men come and help you bind the ship properly so it does not overturn in the storm." They nodded, continued about their business. "Well Yoi..... how about some more of that Kami Blood while we wait this one out?" "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17473	Posted - 2015.03.05 00:53:00 - [87] - Quote "Guess I am....." said Dammel with a chuckle. " Nectar that stuff is an' does wonder's to ease my mind. What ill luck that we should have another such storm this late in the season.... Come lets head back to the Trade Hall, the winds will be very bitter and the docks are not place to be for anyone during a Highstorm." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17473	Posted - 2015.03.05 01:17:00 - [88] - Quote ((I know asking now is kinda a dickish move but it is possible to retroactively apply some traits to the people of the Isles...... I don't mean anything too drastic just alter their physical appearance/ biology to some degree so as to make them a bit more unique.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17473	Posted - 2015.03.05 01:20:00 - [89] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: (( I would say fine. For my people they are all taller than the other people of the nations)) ((YOU SOLD ME GUNS FOR PEOPLE WAY TOO TALL! )) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17474	Posted - 2015.03.05 02:15:00 - [90] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: Vash Warren wrote: (( I would say fine. For my people they are all taller than the other people of the nations)) ((YOU SOLD ME GUNS FOR PEOPLE WAY TOO TALL! )) ((DEAL WITH IT, THE CREED IS STILL HELPING THE GUYS WHO HAD THE BAD ARMOUR FROM THE DWARVES. )) (( Bigger guns means large calibre rounds. I can deal with that.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17477	Posted - 2015.03.05 05:35:00 - [91] - Quote ((Okay so I have one of two potential paths ahead of me. Either we Retcon the Skadii entirely which would be preferable since we haven't actually done anything worthy of note and your leaders are all invited to the Isles for the festival in a month or two [in plot time] or in the next month or two [again in game time] I have to kill off all of the Skadii during a natural disaster.......)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17481	Posted - 2015.03.05 20:02:00 - [92] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((Okay so I have one of two potential paths ahead of me. and slightly barrelled chests, many also have scaled eyebrows or overlapping tendrils around their mouths. ((The first thing that appeared into my mind was Dr.Zoidberg. Creating a new species? Why not Zoidberg?)) ((Not all Mur would look exactly the same, they are a very diverse species. Hell I wrote a full sociological, biological, and technological break down which I'll upload at some point for reference. Bear in mind despite their appearances they are mammals so none of this breathing underwater bullshit.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17486	Posted - 2015.03.05 22:10:00 - [93] - Quote (( Assuming you let me Retcon the plot of the Skadii here is where is stands. Months have passed since mysterious messages have been relayed to the varied leaderships of the continental powers indicating to them that a people known as the Mur of Skadia have for some time been living in a small archipelago land mass to the South and after many years of isolationism have come forward with the intent to live alongside the other peoples of the world. In order to do this they have invited the continental leaders to Skadia for the Festival of Kalya. Weeks later messengers from the Mur, a pale skinned, amorphous, and generally speaking unclothed [Mur neither need them or believe in them] people arrive in the cities on thin graceful looking ships. Yoi arrives in Skadia with the Parabunny crew and meets Dammel and Sephrena as normal with all plots the same. Kalm [formerly Thane] remains in Osmarium as an Ambassador and spends his days lounging around in any water features the castle might have. [Exactly like normal...] At the Summit the Mur helped the other nations defuse the situation with the War and asked to reconvene in the Isles after the festival. Their representative Ma'Tyrn [not prince] makes a deal with Prime Minister Ivan for Rifles and Cannon to study. Storm Occurs in Skadia. Current events. That or..... I have a High-storm cause chain tsunamis in Skadia killing all of the people and introduce the Mur as the successors of the Isles. Sorry for the confusion guys but this kind of RP is too good to pass up.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17486	Posted - 2015.03.05 22:43:00 - [94] - Quote Spademan wrote: (( I'd have no problem with a retcon True. It fits nicely. )) ((So considering that I have made their genders noticeable but amorphous (as in lacking in specific features associated with normal human gender defining features) on the natural body. In fact having recently type out the biology of the Mur I'd ended up determining that all sex organs were internal to the body only ever presenting themselves during times of procreation. That being said I like to think the first works between the Osmarii and the Mur that were recorded in a diplomatic sense was "You smelled like a prospective mate....my apologies"... start at 6:23. I'll upload a copy of the biology and cultural stuff here which basically explain, what they look like, can do, and why they still continue to use ships.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17532	Posted - 2015.03.09 22:09:00 - [95] - Quote In Osmarium...... Having made his proposal to the Chancellor to purchase land in the city Kalm leaves the Chancellor to mull over his response choosing to return to a lovely water feature in the central courtyard of the place where without thought he jumps into the cool water and begins to swim in circles within the wait deep waiters. To arid here, he thought bitterly staring down one of the small scatter fish momentarily considering consuming it for sustenance. These however were the Queen's fish and the Osmari put special emphasis on things the queen owned, despite these fish looking almost exactly the same as any other fish he'd ever seen before. He'd been swimming around the pond for nearing on four minute by the time he broke through into the open air, noting the curious looks of the surrounding nobility and the occasional outraged comment at his apparent lack of clothing. If anything Kalm wondered why the Osmari would even want to wear fabrics to cover their person, such things were for art, displays of culture. He initially thought back to the Maera his Oar-Master had worn upon arriving into port, considering at this point in his integration into Osmari society as clothing though at the same time not since the Maera was heraldry. He spent the afternoon sitting beneath one of the small fountains watching the passers by in the courtyard as they watched him reflecting what he had learned..... human's were very interesting things. In Skadia...... Dammel matched pace with Yoi all the way back to the Trade Hall's. A stinging rain had settled over the port city, beating down upon him in an unpleasant manner causing him to shiver. Highstorms were vile things on the Isles, bitter storms that could last days or weeks if the ocean currents and prevailing winds were unforgiving and caused wide spread damage to Mur holdings on the rivers and coasts. While the Mur were not entirely concerned with the potential of flooding, being incredibly strong swimmers that did not stop currents from dragging unfortunates out to drown in violent seas or the winds from whipping up all manner of dangerous objects. As they approached the Trade Hall Apartment's they came across Phrena and several trademen helping disassemble and secures a number of marketplace stalls, tying them down with thick woven ropes. She like many Mur was possessed of a pale blue skin, slim form, barrelled chest, with three jagged fins that ran down the back of her head reminiscent the "hair' many other species possessed. By Mur standards this was considered a rather attractive feature.....he knew not, nor cared, how other's viewed his people. "Girl!" Dammel barked at her, starling the young Mur woman. " Time for work is done. Have these men return t'there homes and then do so yerself the storm will last many days this time." She looked back as sheepishly as her face would allow, scaled eyebrows furrowing. "The river has already burst it's banks to the south, ferries are not going across the river mouth until the storm calms.... I was going to stay with Aunt in the district here but my Maera and bow are at the Trade Hall........ " The Harbour Masters sighed deeply before nodding for the younger woman to follow. "If you need to gather anything Yoi now would be the time to do it, you don't have much time." "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17541	Posted - 2015.03.10 03:34:00 - [96] - Quote In Skadia............ The storm hit the harbourscapes of Rhen'Ys with a particular bitterness, tearing at the market sprawl over turning carts and cargo rendering the streets unsafe for civilian use during the worst times of the storm. The docks suffered extensive damage across all of the districts including minor flooding in the river-mouth districts and barges overturned resulting in the loss of product. Tearing winds also caused significant damage to the harbour docks causing several sections to completely collapse and be washed away in the tumultuous waves. Despite the severity of the storm only several injuries were reported, though the severity of the injuries varied from simply cuts due to broken glass to head trauma as the patron of a local in was struck by the loose sign-age carried on the winds. The storm abated in a matter of days leaving the Skadii with the task of repairing the damages to their major port. To complete the repairs in a timely fashion the Harbour Masters convened offering to share their assets and man power to ensure each Master had a basic functioning port before the recovering of their own districts were seen to. Woodsmen were dispatched to inland forests to cut down and transport lumber, while craftsmen set up in market squares turning them into makeshift yards, while hunters launched barges down the river ways shooting game with their crossbows. In a matter of days the Skadii had repaired the most severely damage docks allowing each Master to focus their efforts on their own Districts dissolving the temporary alliance. Though a basic functionality had returned to the port and sea travel was once again possible the damage to the trading vessels and loss of goods would take longer to recover from. After the events of the Highstorm Dammel spends most of his days overseeing fishing crews stock piling reserves of food while Sephrena oversees the cataloguing of the lost merchandise and missing Murfolk of the southern districts where flooding at the mouth of the river was most damaging leaving Yoi to his own devices, though he regularly see's them at work. In Osmarium.... Having spent many days mulling over the matter internally Kalm approaches a land owner within the city limits who owns property on the ocean front, one of several inns and an adjacent storehouse, and offers the man a fair sum of Skadii Yul for the deed. [ I'd appreciate a roll for success as well as other outcomes appropriate to the scenario] "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17548	Posted - 2015.03.10 20:56:00 - [97] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((I'd roll, but I'm still not too sure as to what I would be rolling for.)) (( Whether or not the owner accepts the offer allowing an ideal purchase. 1 - Critical Failure the owner is disturbed by the appearance of the Mur and refuses to sell his holdings 2-3 - Minor Success owner demands significantly more from the Skadii than was agreed upon preventing Kalm from making significant progress in the endeavour. 4-5 - Success the owner sells for the agreed upon price. 6- Critical Success as the owner is more than willing to sell for less, or is somewhat enamoured by the Mur's appearance [the Osmarii like to get freaky apparently] and the job progressed more swiftly.)) "This is the Usumgal boy, the exalted dragon, wreathed in the fires of heaven. He is a true symbol of God's majesty."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17617	Posted - 2015.03.13 00:15:00 - [98] - Quote Spademan wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: Osmarium "Yes, my Queen?" Krion stood wearily as he had recently had a lack of sleep. "What is it you called me for?" ((Joke about my current state, and the fact the no character seems to sleep)) "Krion, I am so glad to see you. I-I wanted to ask you for your hand in marriage." (( Had to happen sometime amiright? )) ((Hmmmm someone please explain to Kalm what marriage is.... Skadii don't get married they just kinda ...... Either way we not have a wedding to plan......*swoons )) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17618	Posted - 2015.03.13 00:45:00 - [99] - Quote END SCENE or this has to be ESRB rated. Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17618	Posted - 2015.03.13 01:14:00 - [100] - Quote Spademan wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: END SCENE or this has to be ESRB rated. ((True, dirty little bastard! That isn't what Krion meant, although it does make sense. Perhaps a skip?)) (( I'm with true on that, might be best to skip :P )) ((Dude that sounded like the start of every porno I've ever seen)) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17670	Posted - 2015.03.15 23:54:00 - [101] - Quote In Skadia....... In the wake of the violent Highstorm that struck the Harbourscapes of Rhen- Ys Ma'tyn seeks council from the Mur's enigmatic ruler ascending the stairs of what is known as the Weeping Tower. Set apart from the main bulk of their capital city Erricist by elegant bridges and embossed with spiral patterns its upper spire looks like a shell and is the centre of the Skadii politics. He offers a report on the weapons from the mainlands, rifles, and expresses his dislike for their integration to the Skadii military citing their impracticality in the hands of Marines and Murguard however approves the large calibre Tal-Man cannon being fit to Skadii vessels. After the report the Skadii leader speaks and offers her council to Ma'tyn. In returning from the Tower Ma'tyn orders a pair of the Thalasse ships made ready to sail with all the necessary provisions and crew for months worth of voyage into the uncharted Southern Oceans. In Osmarium...... Kalm engages labourers to begin the renovations of the purchased inn and dispatches a letter to Skadia requestions craftsmen and soldiers come to Osmarium to preside of the construction of their first Embassy and Trade Offices. While the construction is undergoing its initial stages Kalm returns to the Palace. Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17732	Posted - 2015.03.18 01:20:00 - [102] - Quote Spademan wrote: (Issue in regards to Crowns reappearance. Whoever he's taking land off is not going to be happy.) ((Fortunately it's not going to be me since I had to add the Isles to the Map. By and by I feel like starting a war soon/conflict somewhere I just have to decide which of your countries I like least.)) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17739	Posted - 2015.03.18 21:08:00 - [103] - Quote (( Do it Crown! Start a War!)) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17776	Posted - 2015.03.19 22:42:00 - [104] - Quote In Skadia........... The two Thalassae set sail from the slowly recovering Rhen-Ys on straight heading into the Southern Oceans, provisioned with months worth of goods, a deck of newly acquired Tal-Man cannon, and great netting designed to trawl the surface waters of the Great Ocean. Harbour Master Dammel oversaw the blessings of the great ships pouring a ceremonial chalice of water from the Mur River over the vessels Bowspirit (not bowsprit a very literal depiction of a Murfolk spirit carved into the aperture of a bowsprit) after having observed a number of traditional prayers and ritualised obeisance to Kalya of the Oceans. In Osmarium...... A barque from the Isles appear in the capital city's harbour bearing a great many Mur craftsmen, merchants, and several guardsmen for Kalm and the newly developing Embassy and Trade Houses. They immediately get to work taking over from the Osmari craftsmen who had laid the foundations of the buildings and adapting them in Skadii fashion. While the craftsmen are at work Kalm and the guardsmen spend many hours each day diving in the harbours salvaging the ocean floor collecting decades lost cargo and scavenging lost coastal wrecks for valuables, caching their finds in their newly acquired store houses. Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17776	Posted - 2015.03.20 01:22:00 - [105] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: ((Who wants to be **** germany?... Wait we have not found far off lands to fight for yet. (( If someone fucks with me I'll start a war. The only thing that's going to be War-breaking is when people start messing around with trying to be Fantasy Police America)) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17777	Posted - 2015.03.20 02:08:00 - [106] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((No America. I'd believe Osmarium is like 13th Century England, The Paric Terrotories are just themselves, the Skadi are seemingly Japan of some time, no idea what the Vagabonds are, the Blood Raiders and such are other things.)) ((I'm no Japan heathen! Though the Skadii religion might very closely mirror Shinto Buddhism. NOW DO SOMETHING TO MAKE ME ABLE TO JUSTIFY WAR!)) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17797	Posted - 2015.03.22 23:59:00 - [107] - Quote (( What are the islands south of the Main Continental Drift like Raven? Also are you all ready for the Festival to Start?)) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17797	Posted - 2015.03.23 00:10:00 - [108] - Quote Spademan wrote: True Adamance wrote: (( What are the islands south of the Main Continental Drift like Raven? Also are you all ready for the Festival to Start?)) (( Actually, I'd asked a while ago but never got a response from Raven. Those storms around your isle, severe enough to prevent the queen from being able to attend? )) ((They are over, I made a post about it a fortnight ago. This however is important. Stirring up Piracy, Conflict, etc.)) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17797	Posted - 2015.03.23 00:51:00 - [109] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Hmm? Apologies, I have been caught up with life. Exactly which islands are you talking about?)) ((You drew a world map. You and Spade headed West to a landmass. My people headed south to another one. Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 17894	Posted - 2015.03.29 22:16:00 - [110] - Quote (( The Skadii life spans are pretty short by comparison with the average Skadii living through to roughly 70 years of age and maturing early in their lives though they maintain their youth only entering a more dormant and elderly phase in the last ten years of their lives. Also the Mur Hierarchy looks a little like this... Ruler Shuri'den'shalvys- Singular and not yet introduced high ruler of the Murfolk, otherwise know as a Weeper and serves not only as a ruler of the Skadii people but also as a divine link to the Goddess Kalya a part of whom is thought to reside in her bloodline. Council Harbour Master Dammel - Controls one of the more profitable districts of Rhen'Ys and stands as the Skadii's current Trade and Diplomatic Advisor. First Scribe Sephrena- Attendant to Dammel and in position to accept his position as Harbour Master Harbour Master Shy'en- To be introduced Harbour Master of Rhistvalla's largest producing district and is known to harbour pirates and privateer's. His lands are however very law abiding in-exchange for safe harbour and protection. Harbour Master Mal'ii- Harbour Master of the Two Rivers Port. Military Kalm - Envoy to the Osmarii and a representative of the Murguard, Captain of the Seahawk. Mat'yn- One of Skadia's many respected relic salvager's now on his way to explore the new world, Captain of the Thalassae Brinicle. Adelya- Leader of the Murguard, traditionally a role of women, who stand as guardians of their leader and the Mur Lake and River, Captain of the Lewyetan. Currently the Skadii Military Advisor. Theological Meer'den - High Priestess of Kalya, to be introduced. Currently the Skadii Religious Advisor. Man'tiel- A Privateer in service to the Pantheon [religious order of the Murfolk] and Captain of the ships know as the Maelstrom, Riptide, and Sargasso. If this is too many let me know.)) Raphael: I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you. Castiel: Maybe one day. Today you're my little bitch

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18020	Posted - 2015.04.08 00:01:00 - [111] - Quote In Skadia...... Far from the Capital City on one of the northern most Isles sits the largest Temple of the Patheon, a grandiose work of architecture carved into the marble cliffs of a near vertical mountain side, flanked on either side by long coast lines, dominated by a bustling port city of similar white marble, cut into the shape of a crescent moon. Man'tiel looked uncomfortable surrounded by dozens of Maera clad Priestesses of the various pantheistic gods whose churches ruled over the city scape of Ahlar. His meeting with the with the Ecclesiach of the Kalya Covenant had been set many months prior in the wake of opened borders with the Landborn nations of the continental drift though the High Priestesses schedule had demanded their meeting be held off until the Festival of Kalya. He'd arrived on the Maelstrom earlier that day, the fastest ship in his fleet by far, leaving the remaining ships in convoy to trim their sails on the open southern seas while his business was seen to. He'd been surprised when the clergy had taken him aside to, as they called, make him respectable having supplied him with his own Aklae, a garb for the male of the species. While most Mur eschewed clothing contact with foreign nations had seen a conservative streak appear in the churches that Man'tiel felt was altogether un-Skadii, though he kept his mouth shut and donned the soften leather breaches and mantle fastening it with a catch bearing the Storm God's seal. "I told them to make you proper and so they have." came the voice of a young woman. She stood barely to his chin, though her bearing and tone conveyed a weight and wisdom he'd not hear in many long years of sailing the Southern Oceans. She wore a beautiful Maera of silk and spun Gold. At the sound of her voice the busied lesser priestesses retreated to the eaves of the chamber. "Aye they did Meer'den....... Your Radiance. It has been too many years since I have seen you last" he replied respectfully, offering a stiff bow. "And you have chosen a God.... I am somewhat pleased by that at the very least. Still you certainly know how to ruffle the proverbial feathers of the priesthood" She sighed, her tone was demur though not out rightly hostile. "They say he is a passionate God Meer'den..... no wonder a girl like you doesn't approve." "Don't commit a blasphemy Man'tiel!" Her tone was stern and unmistakably frustrated. "We didn't call you here to speak flippantly. We need you to sail to the North and ply the oceans....." On-board the Brinicle.... The three Thalassae made a sight strung out in convoy across the rolling Southern Ocean each catching a convenient Northerly gales pushing them onwards toward a demoralising and featureless horizon. Ma'tyn had cloistered himself in his cabin for much of the journey preferring to spend his days keeping careful inventory of the slowly dwindling stocks of supplies his people had thought to bring with them. Their supplies were holding but their moral was low. Weeks on the open oceans was not uncommon for the Skadii but in uncharted waters with bland and unchanging ocean ahead the Mur found themselves longing for familiar ports. However to Ma'tyn's great pleasure he found the climate to be growing hotter and more humid with each passing day they pressed on. In Osmarium...... Thane stepped back with a look of objective satisfaction written across his features. Thanks to the Skadii craftsmen and Osmari labourers the completion of the Trade Offices and Embassy was complete and currently housed some two hundred Skadii merchant's, craftsmen, and guards. Moreover due to the salvage efforts in the port area their storehouse was almost completely filled with lost cargo though efforts to find valuables amongst their contents was faring poorly, and their relationship with various shipping groups and exporters had soured somewhat after word of their recovery efforts had reached public ears. Regardless amongst the Mur there was a tangible excitement as many busied themselves preparing for Festival celebrations having cleared out a section of ground in front of the Trade Office's and were busy constructing a number of rafts and canoes to be used during the Offerings. With preparations reaching a fevered pitch several Osmarii craftsmen of note within the city were contracted to aid in the preparation of the graceful vessels. GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18083	Posted - 2015.04.09 04:46:00 - [112] - Quote In Skadia....... Ahlar, White Harbour of the Patheon A moment of silence passed between them in the Temple chambers as the young Covenant Ecclessiarch studied the Privateer noting with approval his bearing as a thoughtful look crossed his features. Mur were an emotionally expressive people by their very nature, thoughts and feelings were more or less and very open thing between them and it only took several months worth of study to grasp the intimate nature of reading such expressions and concealing them from others. "Why now though Your Radiance?" He answered in a sober tone, though his face expressed a certain sense of excitement. "It's been nigh on two decades since Piracy was last legalised. Against which arm of the priesthood have the Landborn transgressed?" The priesthood of her Covenant were regarded as the most adept at this art form as Kalya's own teachings espoused serenity and understanding amongst all people, to take lives was to sin, to harm and cause conflict was a transgression of the Covenant and the sole reason such Privateer's existed. Given her apprehensions she would not have even dared approach the Privateer Fleet Commander had they not be acquaintances of several years. "You know better than to ask that Man'tiel. Such is not your place to ask of me..... but I am a young High Priestess. Many amongst the Pantheon consider me the improper heir to this position and wish me gone, others consider my recent reforms with consideration to foreigners decidedly un-Skadii and self serving...." She smiled faintly as Man'tiel nodded knowingly, it seemed now that such rumours were not limited to the enclaves of the priesthood any longer and that her opposition had taken to publicly denouncing her. The mere thought of such dissenters enraged her, however she calmed herself quickly with a half remembered mantra of Covenant scripture. ".... I shall show them otherwise. The oceans belong to us. Great Kalya bestowed their bounties unto our people and we shall reap them as is Her wish. I shall present to these doubters rich bounties of fine silks and the Bowspirits of the Landborn's conquered vessels and with that done they shall know my loyalties lie with Shuri'den'shalvys." "Why not simply push for war then Radiance? If this angers you so show them they are wrong." Man'tiel replied matter of factly. "Because it is not a path I desire.......nor does Shuri'den'shalvys." Her tone was dire, and bespoke a great sadness. Man'tiel started forwards a pace at her tone and for a moment she thought he meant to approach her or even touch her but he held himself back his half outstretched hand moving to the clasp of his Aklae where it came to rest over the jagged spiral symbol of the Storm God. She winced as she looked upon his face, now devoid of any particular excitement or emotion it had once held. It was often easy for her to forget Man'tiel had once been a member of the Covenant before inheriting the Maelstrom. "Say no more Mer'deen. Your will be done, I shall take The Maelstrom to the North and claim the spirits of their vessels in Her name, their treasures in Your's, and their lives for the Storm God. You promised them such and I shall answer with a dozen and no more." With a curt bow the mercenary captain turned and left the chamber, all of the attending priestesses following behind him in pairs, alone in the cavernous marble room in silence, struggling not to weep as the cruel fate of The Maelstrom's captain began to play out. GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18107	Posted - 2015.04.09 22:24:00 - [113] - Quote In Skadia...... Ahlar, White Harbour of the Pantheon Man'tiel gained the docks within and hour of his leaving the cavernous marble chamber of the Covenant's most prominent of Temples stopping only for several moments to offer his prayers at one of several small and shabby chapel's on the far edge of the cliffside. At one point Vireh's own Temple had been considered a masterwork of Skadii design, featuring detailed frescoes on solid marble slabs of the Storm God's mythos, though now its surface was well worn by salt spray and stained with years of neglect. No priests maintained the outer temples as they did in the inner conclaves and it was left to the devotee's of the chapel itself to see to its maintenance. That was not to say however that the Storm God's following was not devoted or small, it was merely a result of the ruling Covenant's influence over the religious conclaves. He remembered having sighed deeply, removing the fine softened leather Aklae, and using it's silky inner lining to polish the surface of a particularly worn section of panelling, revealing the poignant scene of Kalya casting her brother down from his place in the heavens to suffer and rage against the physical world, such being an eternal part of the Mur's collective psyche. At the foot of the altar he'd offered of his plunder to the Storm God, leaving in a small ceramic urn his copper broach bearing the God's sigil and storing a small oiled and water proofed leather bag containing section of woof from the Bowspirit of a foreign vessel, it's Heart, torn from its ship in the midst of combat and blessed by devotee's. The Storm God did not protect his chosen, nor did he offer them sanctuary. Instead it was said that offering were made to exempt oneself from his limitless ire, and Man'tiel had found himself over the years strangely affected by the religions secreted practices, though seeing the temple in its sorry state troubled him greatly. As soon as he stepped aboard the Maelstrom his spirits returned to him. It was his place, and for the better part of a decade his home and livelihood. All about him dozens of veteran Mur sailors toiled laboriously preparing the sails, provisioning the larders, and organising their new armaments of cannon and shot, storing the priceless black powder in secreted cubbies in similarly water proofed leather pouches as they one he'd offered to his god. Such tools would be the keys to his success and was eager to test the weapons his men had been appropriated with the support of a local harbour master from the Royal Warehouses in Rhen'Ys. His fleet, now fully armed with some two hundred cannon between the four vessels sixty of which were mounted on the Maelstrom, would carve a bloodline across the coasts of the mainlands and be gone before anyone could even identify their vessels if the gods favoured him. By night fall the Maelstrom was fully manned, provisioned, and its crew given shore leave to visit the taverns and pleasure gardens of the city. With the promise of plunder on the horizon and the scent of blood in the air Man'tiel brought the raiding vessels out onto the open ocean and set a course North West to rendezvous with the rest of his fleet. GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18109	Posted - 2015.04.09 23:23:00 - [114] - Quote ((I didn't I just wanted to get this out of the way. Next post will be the set up to my introducing Shuri'den'shalvys to the Aeschild and then I'm just waiting on the other leaders to arrive.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18120	Posted - 2015.04.10 01:24:00 - [115] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Revon arrived on the docks of Skadia after a few incidents at sea. He is accompanied by several of the Creed as they move off of the Serpent, the Paric's most nimble ship. Revon greeted those who stood on the docks working. "Greetings, Harbour Master. I am Revon, of the Paric Nation. I presume you already know Yoi." In Skadia......... Rhen'Ys, Harbourscapes of the Northen Districts As Revon disembarked from his vessel Dammel and Sephrena presented themselves before him raising their heads exposing the chest and throat and making a slight gesture with their hands, as hundreds of other Skadii mimicked the gesture from other gantries and docks, all watching the Parabunny Leadership with an earnest curiosity and a hint of discomfort at their serpentine features. From her position in the forefront of the welcoming party arrayed before the foreigners Sephrena was able to glance up at the Leader of the Parabunny Nation who despite her raised head was still taller than her by a fair amount. Yoi had mentioned before that he also was the leader of The Creed, though what that meant she and Dammel knew not. He, like Yoi, was an imposing individual in her opinion with the utterly alien serpentine features of his people. She thought it certainly was odd that the Skadii accepted the appearance of the mainlander humans as more normal than this given their own particular physical traits but supposed that this was merely due to lack of interaction between their two peoples, of whom Yoi was the only example she could draw from. "Be welcome here Landborn Lord." Offered Dammel, from his position of respect. In line with protocol he did not move or attempt to look down. " The Isles of the Mur welcome you and your kin from afar. I am truly blessed by the Goddess to have the honour of welcoming you to our shores. My people are at your disposal. If your men have wont for drink and rest they may find it here.......however Her Grace Shuri'den'shalvys awaits you in the capitol. At your leisure we have barges prepared or if it please you transport by land for you and your guard." GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18124	Posted - 2015.04.10 02:45:00 - [116] - Quote In Skadia......... Rhen'Ys, Harbourscape of the Norther Districts As the Paric Guardians begin to speak in their foreign tongue a slight wave of discomfort rolls across the assembled Skadii, and several of them lose their composure dropping their heads and whispering amongst themselves with unaguard and concerned looks upon their faces. For a moment Sephrena thought the entire welcoming gesture might fall apart upon them, as more and more Skadii let the gesture fall by the wayside expressing their own concerns at the foreigners appearance in hushed tones. However Dammel cleared his throat loudly bringing back Sephrena and the other attendants back into the moment and reminding them that the ceremony was completed. "As you will Lord Revon [couldn't resist that]. With the ceremony out of the way shall my people aid your in unloading the cargo or are you happy to leave it to you crewmen. We shall have the carriages prepared for you and your retinue. I shall have Sephrena here attend to your travel plans and accompany you to the capitol. She is certainly diligent so do not hesitate to ask her if you have any questions about our people or our lands." With that he turned to face the young Skadii woman who was about to follow the other attendants to clear a path through the all to willing to leave the Murfolk and addressed her directly before she could protest causing her to bite back an excuse. "You WILL accompany these men and ensure they arrive before Shuri'den'shalvys in time for the festival. You shall also remain there until such a time as they are ready to return to their ships and depart out lands. Do you understand." She nodded meekly, unwilling to shame the Harbour Master in front of the foreigners. "Then if you Lordship and his..... friends are prepared let us depart for Errecist presently." Her tone was reluctant. "The trip should only require several hours by carriage along the River Road." [ Working on a post that will have a similar greeting for Aeschild. Give me a momment.] GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18192	Posted - 2015.04.12 22:18:00 - [117] - Quote In Skadia........ On the River Road Sephrena shifted uncomfortably under the foreign diplomat's attentions though despite her position in the front of the carriage next to the driver she could not completely hide her revulsion whenever her eyes met his. The carriage ride had progressed rather peacefully and for the most part the Parabunnies had spoken amongst themselves in their own tongue ignoring the girl who had chosen instead to focus on watching the abundance of wildlife around them. "It's is nothing Lord Revon." She stammered awkwardly, not willing to face the imposing speaker or his men. "You're just......very different to what we expected of the landborn. I mean....well...if you forgive my forwardness it's the eyes, it's.... the look you all have." Off to the side of the road where the well trod track become a rolling and temperate grassland of vibrant flowers, populated sparsely by gnarled treesand small well springs and brooks from which the cheery sounds songbird could be heard, deer grazed freely, bounding from green thickets to dine of rich grasses. Occasionally from the Mur River off to their right the faint splashing of fresh water tuna and trout could be heard leaping from the crystal waters to snap at low hanging Mayfly's and Riverskates. Even the septapod crustacean Phrsam that towed the carriage seemed high in spirits so it struck her ironic that she herself was exempt from this universal goodwill. " You haven't asked much about the islands so you won't know yet but we do have a nasty breed of predatory shore dwelling creature's called Skaum. They represent a primal fear in my people's culture. You must understand them though...those people at the docks. Probably the first time they've ever seen foreigners from outside the Isles even more so those who look like Skaum or have their features." She announced matter of factly, plating a wide palm on the chitinous, helmet like plating of the Phrsam tapping it several times resulting in a high pitched hum of pleasure form the spindly creature. However a moment later she looked aghast. "But of course.....um ....well you all look more refined I....yes....well not that I mean you were brutes...but ...well." Before lapsing into an awkward silence. In Skadia, several days prior......... The Mouth of the Mur River Two dozen armed and armoured Skadii Murguard stood to attention in serried ranks before their commanding officer, whom despite her best attempts could do little to quell the nervousness she felt at welcoming a foreign dignatory. Adelya was a warrior, not a politician. She felt more comfortable with a simple scale subligar that a offered freedom of movement and protection than the ceremonial silk-thing Shuri'den'slvys had asked her to wear,unsuccessfully much to the ruler's amusement, and understood very little of her people's fascination with gaudy silks and theological pomp. "Tide-swan" came a voice from her shoulder, her lieutenant. "The barge is readied and the formation present for inspection." "You all look ridiculous." She sneered back at those assembled many of whom had chosen to don the cermonial dress at their ruler call, other's who'd followed her lead and chosen more practical armament. However all of them did carry the large, heavy two handed axes that were known for shearing through the mast of a ship as well as flesh and bone. "Let them have their day Captain. Few have ever left Erricist let alone seen this Osmarii land-Murmen Queen. People say she is like Shuri'den'shalvys. T'would be a sight indeed." Adelya grunted back an affirmation musing over what this Osmarii Queen they were supposed to greet would be like. Like all Mur she considered Shuri'den to be a beauty of unprecedented scope, at least that was by her own people's standards. She would await this Osmarii Queen to see if the rumours were true. Amongst her own kind Adelya was something off an oddity. Unlike most Skadii women she was possess of more than two dozen of the beautiful jagged fins that ran down the back of the head and hung down the length of her back in a fashion reminiscent of human hair, so often would they get in her way they she had taken to tying them back and wearing them over her shoulder. Such however contrasted strongly with the awkwardness of her bodyshape which was altogether lacking any semblance of the streamlined grace of her people and was unsuited for swimming. It was this perhaps why many, even amongst her own barracks considered her and unwelcoming woman and a harsh commanding officer....though none disputed the skill of her men, and this sole thought satisfied her to no end. A commotion several hundred metres down the cobbled road drew her attentions, a party of foreigners with pale faces and oddly proportioned bodies led on by a committee of Mur. More bloody ceremony, she thought, a look of disgust twisting her features. "Get in proper lines you half scaled children of whores!" Her tone was sharp and uncompromising. It saw and instantaneous sharpening of her soldier's form and bearing, and though she did not particularity have have anything against ***** being partial to one herself, she found it was the tried and tested tongue lashings that truly really spoke to career soldiers. "Bloody Queen pale skin is here and you scum have to get her to the capital with all 'er bits and bobs in tact. Anyone not keepin' to their post will 'ave me throw them off this barge. Anyone looks at 'er funny and I'll throw them off the barge. Anyone talks to 'er without 'er say so and I will personally put this axe in their skull. Do you degenerates get me?!" "We get you sir.....ma'am!" Came the unanimous if mixed reply. GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18248	Posted - 2015.04.13 04:58:00 - [118] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: "I see. Thank you, Sephrena, that is all I wished to know." Silence once again was found before the curious Revon asked a second question. "Sephrena, it this discomfort and worse towards a Kami, Yoi for example, than a regular Paric? Also these Skaum, may you describe their appearance?" In Skadia........ On the Mur River Road "W-well I don't know about that......we-I mean I did not know there was a difference. Amongst our kind physical attributes can vary unlike the landborn races. As for the Skaum..... you might even see one as we approach the capitol." She pause momentarily taking on a single long and deep breath, loosening the strings on her Maera allowing her to breath more easily, and taking a moment to recall what she knew of the indigenous Skaum and the Mur culture that surrounded them. "As I understand it Skaum are large indigenous scale-skin's that live in the shallow waters throughout the Isles that feed on more of less anything smaller than them. They are M'karr.... I suppose it means "not quite Mur" because like us they live on the land but thrive in the oceans. They mature to be several metres long and covered with rough, sandy coloured scales that blend into the river and ocean floors concealing them as they approach. They have incredibly powerful hind legs and use their tails to propel themselves through the water. Also its worth noting that they have wide, flat skulls that they use as counter weights to guide themselves as they swim......not just this but also to strike at their prey as they attempt to bite with several rows of disease ridden teeth." She shivered visibly as she glanced back at the Paric guardsmen and Revon with an unmistakable sorrow. "They prey mostly on Phrsam..." Sephrena explained, reassuring the septapods drawing the carriage, with a soft tone. "... but Mur too are often attacked by thrashes of them every now and them. People say it's the eyes you see before the attack watching you from just below the water line....they're the most aggressive thing in the Isles that even comes close to shore...I think the people are just worried you're like them......not saying you are. Yoi seemed pleasant probably just years of old beliefs being hard to change overnight." GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18250	Posted - 2015.04.14 23:55:00 - [119] - Quote Spademan wrote: The Queen set foot for the first time on Skadii soil. She looked around at its inhabitants and was surprised how much decide to forgo clothing, noticing those in a kind of light armour. Soldiers no doubt. Her gaze then turned towards the elaborate silk robed attire, a kind of holy garment perhaps? She was also inwardly embarrassed at how difficult she found telling each one apart from the next. The crew began unloading the cargo of the ship. Some merchants had been invited along to be among the first of the Osmar to establish trade. One such merchant was Widuc, a well known dealer of Furs and Leather. He brought with him only the finest quality furs from creatures as small as a beaver and as large as a bear, with leathers being mostly Deer and Cow. His stock had been unloaded and, with the permission of the Skadii, set up a stall beside other merchants. All showing the goods the Osmar have to offer. After the business of unloading the cargo, particularly the horses, was over with the Queen with Krion and her guards prepared to leave for the capital, whilst leaving some behind with the ship. Shortly before commencing the ride, the Queen curtseyed before her Murguard escort, the captain Adelya and spoke. "Good day. It's a pleasure to meet you. You're the one tasked with escorting us to your capital correct? Do tell me, how long is the journey?" In Skadia.......... The Mouth of the Mur River " Yes Ma'am.... Your Grace." Said the warrior carefully so as not to offend the procession of merchants, guardsmen, and other wise foppish looking diplomatic type human landborn whom she feared the barge would not be able to convey in their entirety. The Queen however was fair for a pale skin, certainly more so than the ***** looking Paric whom she had glimpsed up[on sailing into the dockyards aboard her ship, the Lewyetan. "The journey Up-River should not take more than a few hours Your Grace. We may have to make several stops to navigate a section of the narrows however this should not prevent your arrival in the capitol by this evening. Also have no fear for your safety while in our lands, there are no Mur more skilled with an axe or who have plied the river's and oceans that would give their lives in place of yours." Will all said and done she raised he chin so as to expose her throat before offering a sign of respect to Krion, raising a closed fist and placing it over a scale-shod breast with a rustling as the plates scraped across one another. That one is a man-mate, she thought to her self surprised as her own sense of intuition, she could smell it after a certain fashion, not something she was particularly gifted with by any stretch. With the formalities out of the way she beckoned to her Lieutenant,a sharp gesture, who broke ranks with a pair of other Mur and began to gesture for the human guests to board the gracefully carved barges of which by this point three such vessels had come into harbour respectfully asking them to store any items of significant weight in the aft holds. While this was under way she addressed the remaining score of troops upon the dock. "Il'yeth. Take half a dozen of them warriors by Phrsam to the Narrows to prepare the winches along the River Road, M'we you will take four men of your choice, the best swimmers, and follow the barges from the rear. Both of you are to signal us if you spot any Thrashes the length of the River. The remainder will be divided four to a barge to compliment to the Queen's own guard" She gave the assembled a menacing glare. "Any one of you scale-skin bastards steps out of line and we'll gladly throw you to the bloody Skaum, are we clear?" Few spoke, all nodded their understand, knowing full well she would do it without a moment's hesitance. Adelya was not a woman to brook failure being the current commander of the Murguard. With that she hefted the massive iron double headed great axe over one shoulder, counter balancing its weight lazily with one arm, and dismissed them to carry out her orders. She returned to the the Queen and her man-mate. "By your leave Your Grace.... and yours Sir. Should you 'ave need of me I will be stationed aboard your barge at it's prow." GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18258	Posted - 2015.04.15 03:43:00 - [120] - Quote Crownrule wrote: (Introducing Ashton, second in command for the order) On the path to Skadia.... It confused Ashton why he was being sent to a place called Skadia and to act as the Empire's diplomat, he had wanted to be with Tenarius and help with the capital. But instead he was travelling to a far off land he did not know, except for the maps he researched. He was older than Tenarius by a whole year, he was also his second in command. He had fought alongside Tenarius during the revolution which started the golden age for exploration and settling for their people, Tenarius may be young but he was a capable leader and warrior. Just up ahead....there appears to be a small party of armor clad warriors, he tells his own party of soldiers to hold their position. ((Just so you know Skadia is a chain of islands several days by boat.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18274	Posted - 2015.04.16 01:58:00 - [121] - Quote Spademan wrote: "Of course, we'll leave immediately" replied the Queen to Adelya. As they boarded the barge's the guards put their armour in the holds, wearing their amber coloured uniforms underneath, with red trims to distinguish themselves as Royal Guard. With the rise of firearms armour had become less reliable in defending against them, and any armour used on the battlefield was typically steel, rather than the ceremonial bronze that was brought with them. After some time, +åschild couldn't help but take notice of the Mur armaments. They used large axes, far larger than the standard issue of Osmar soldiers, and not a single firearm was in sight. Perhaps they had yet to discover them. She had also been highly curious of their method of leadership as she is still very unfamiliar with the Skadian region, to a point where she approached Adelya to pose the question. "I would like to ask, how are your people ruled? What kind of power does Shuriden exert?" "Myhe." She swore softly from her watchful position on the fore deck of sturdy barges, having amused herself greatly watching the manner by which the Osmarii guard seemed to glare at the heavy double bladed axes she and her warriors carried almost as if outraged or in disbelief, approaching the queen with the slightest hint of amusement written across her features. Ignorant or not, and regardless of which, Adelya found the Queen to be a likeable woman, and likeable or not it would be best for her to correct their assembly before another made a contraction of the name of the Skadii matriarch. "Please Your Grace, she is Shuri'den'shalvys, and she is........ it is as if...." She cut off, wide brow furrowing with frustration, as if the correct words were lost on her and the point of explaining was a futile one. "I suppose it will be clear to you when you meet her, Your Grace, she is the heart of our people like no other's would be. In bearing, in quality, in impression she is like no other of out people....." It was difficult for Adelya to rely on words to describe to others what it was like to be in the Tower in service to the matriarch her people so earnestly venerated and obeyed without question. The queen and the man-mate would come to understand once they met her though, of that she was sure. "Would it surprise you to say that the Mur are beholden to no secular authority but the God's?" She responded knowing it wasn't strictly true. " Shuri'den'shalvys is to us like a mother. She speaks for us, and guides us, asks the heavens to bless us, and suffers for us. We follow her as a sign of respect....but you shouldn't ask me. I am no scholar on the subject other Mur might have your answer...I do not." She lapsed into silence for several minutes musing over her inability to articulate herself in an acceptable manner before the foreign ruler wondering how the Queen would react if she expressed her thoughts on the matter. Mid thought she noted the woman's curious glance at her armament and dismissed such disorganised and impractical thought from her mind. "Your Grace. Do you have some reservation about our arms? My warriors do not keep ineffectual tools on their person, each blade was sharpened and oiled prior to your arrival... if you concern are those gaudy silks I shall have the warriors remove them from their persons the very minute." GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18286	Posted - 2015.04.16 21:59:00 - [122] - Quote JIMvc2 wrote: Yesterday I was in FW and I saw your name = :D but then you left = Wtf >.>.... (( I get in from work usually between 6:30 and 7:00PM having finished roughly a 10+km bike ride around the hills. I log into dust to see if anyone is online and usually try to run a match. Deploys tank. Kills scrubs. Attempts to determine if team is worth continuing to risk 1.143 Million ISK on. That team was not. Proceeds to cook dinner, disconnect, and go on to watch the Monument's Men and download FFXIV)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18350	Posted - 2015.04.19 22:19:00 - [123] - Quote Spademan wrote: During the silence the Queen reflected upon what Adelya had told her about the Mur ruler. Their religious leader and their political leader were the one position. She thought of Revon and how he was both the leader Parabunny nation and their Creed, though it was unlikely that the similarities continued beyond that. In her speech it appeared that Adelya, and perhaps other Mur, revered the Matriarch as though she were directly under the influence of their god or gods. It was certainly a discussion she would like to have with someone more suited to speak of the subject. After pondering these thoughts the Queen couldn't help but turn her gaze back towards the Mur Guards. The weaponry, while well crafted, seemed rather outdated. They lacked firearms of any kind, a product which had become standard in the Osamr military. When Adelya spoke up +åschild replied: "My apologies, I'm sure they're perfectly capable. I just find it...unusual, your lac of firearms that is." In Skadia......... The Mur River Run in transit to The Narrows "An astute observation Your Grace" Adelya replied with a chuckle that resembled the peal of bells. This Queen was no foppish, city dwelling, pale-skin as was her opinion of the other diplomats, like herself the woman had some steel to her even if she carried none herself. " Do you know much of my people's physical nature Your Grace? Our's is a people suited to the oceans and river ways as such we have no use of weapons that cannot function in damp conditions. More to the point...." She extended an long, spade like arm before the Queen, flaring one of the delicate, green, fin appendages that ran along her fore arm, for the Queen's inspection. Upon such a glance it became immediately obvious that the Queen that the pale blue skin was decorated by a series of naturally occurring patterns in rich hues of aquatic blues and greens and covered by a thin oily layer that caused the skin to glisten in the light. "The firearm weapons the Tal-man supplied us with do not agree with us though we have found a means to make use of the large cannon. Regardless the crossbow is not so inferior to the rifle that we have yet need to change our ways." A slight disturbance behind her drew her attentions revealing the scale armoured form of her lieutenant to whom she offered an impatiant roll of her eyes as if to hurry him along. "Tide-swan we are approaching the Narrows. We must prepare to disembark to move the barges.....also......" "Spit it out Ni'alo. What word?" He looked sheepish, his pale blue skin darkening slightly. If nothing else the look on his face was one of shame mixed with a slight hint of fear as if expecting some kind of violent response form his commanding officer that might involve his being tossed off the barges. "A signal from Il'yeth Tide-swan. She had happened upon a Thrash at the Narrows...her men are dealing with it as we speak but....." She nodded soberly. It was not ideal for the Skadii to present one of the less accommodating aspects of the Isles to their guests but was little that could be done as such natural occurrences were commonplace after the storm seasons that ravaged the Isles before the Festival celebrations. "Bring M'we's command in to the river banks. We disembark as planned. Il'yeth will have seen to the Thash by the time we arrive. Just be on guard. At such times as these the Skaum can be feisty. More importantly alert the Osmari guardsmen to ready their weapons in case the worst should happen. I shall see to the Queen and the Man-mate." GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18361	Posted - 2015.04.20 01:06:00 - [124] - Quote In Skadia...........on the Mur River Road. Having completed her duties and fully answering the questions from Revon and his retinue on the subject of the Skaum the silence extended out between their two parties once more allowing the girl a brief respite from the awkward and formal talk with the foreign diplomats. While communication between their two parties was becoming more natural, at least on her part, there was still the same faint and immutable fear her people felt when their eyes met which hindered her attempts at establishing and amicable climate between herself and the Parian's. They had made swift progress on their journey along the river road having passed from the deliberately expanding shanties that comprised the new sections of Rhen'Ys sprawling harbourscapes into the verdant steppes of Skadia's central temperate regions wherein a foreign naturalist could lose themselves for a life time. However as the journey neared its end the flatness came to a district end and the party began to make their ascent up the winding paths of a natural valley. Having loomed upon the horizon for the better part of the afternoon one would have been forgiven for assuming the vastness of some jagged bluff forcing itself out of the ground in a manner that inferred the momentous events of a titanic natural phenomena or even conjured dark thoughts of some aberration of infliction god lavished upon the lands. Instead what eventuated from the otherwise unerring, well trodden River Road, the River itself cutting a swift path through the mountainsides wide enough for a ship to sail through, was a series of winding roads that Sephrena indicated would lead them on to Errecist, albeit indirectly allowing them one of the best glances of the capitol and the Mur Lake from the valley passes. As path they now rode found purchase in the rough cliff side, leading them through ascent and descent of stark and primordial valleys, the air began to take on a distinct humidity and the tentative sound of secreted waterfalls and hidden streams that fed the Mur River intermingled with the shrill manner of the Phrsam and the sounds of carapace clattering and scraping across the firmness of an established road. Within the hour their procession crested rise coming to a natural pass in the hilltop where the element carven stone of some long distant water fall of river run in old antiquity met the gracefully carven marble gantries and coiling mile markers of Mur architecture, the first such like the Paric envoy had likely seen, which affirmed that the harsh functional shapes of the harbourscapes were indeed designed with functionality in mind. This however paled in comparison with the sublime expanse that extended out before them as the valley itself began to take shape between the flanking spires. (( I want to do one description of Errecist so that when spade next posts I can get it all sorted out and you can all go to meet Shuri'den'shalvys [hell even I can't stop typing out her full name] and the Festival can begin)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18384	Posted - 2015.04.20 22:37:00 - [125] - Quote Spademan wrote: The Queen let them be as they held their conversation, she was confident that her own guard as well as the Mur could fend off any attack. Sir Torhsteg, the Knight tasked with leading the royal guard, received the orders from the Mur and passed it along to his men before speaking to the Queen. "Your grace, the men are prepared for whatever may come. Do you have any further orders?" "Just one, don't let your guns get too close to the Mur." she replied with a a slight smile Somewhat puzzled as most Osmar were as of yet ignorant to the Mur and their ways, he nodded obediently and turned back. Gun at the ready, he kept a watchful eye out for this "Thrash", despite having never seen one before. Regardless, anything aggressive will be shot first, inspected later. In Skadia......... on the Mur River by the Narrows The manner by which the Osmarii soldiers moved was endearing to the Murguard Captain and while she did not doubt their skill at facing down a conventional foe she remained ignorant as to whether or not they were familiar with the monstrous pack based predations of their own indigenous predators. Their pace down the river continued without slowing, the long plume of smoke from the controlled signal fire trailing up into the clear skies growing ever closer, as a series of wooden docks and buildings over shadowed by a rising bluff came into view on the river side on which a band of Skadii were frantically waving their arms to slow the vessel. Beyond the docks, carved into the hillside, as if my some transcendental entity a great natural arch cut through the stone leading the river onwards into a canyon paved in shallow, slow flowing water. The waters beneath the docks were in a turmoil of roiling white capped waves as a dozen enormous, coiled reptilian creatures writhed around the carcasses of half so many riverside deer. Crossbow bolts still visibly poking out of their ribs where the Mur vanguard had hurriedly placed their quarrels. It was common practice on the rivers to evade the pack migrations of the Skaum as they headed from the sheltered in land regions out to the main oceans after the storm seasons to hunt larger prey, and even more so common to placate the hungers of the beasts with fresh kills that they might choose to ignore the Mur sailors in favour of the easy meal provided. Il'yeth had done well, her warriors had already procured the game and cast them into the rivers where the aptly named Thrash had ravenously descended upon them. "Your Grace" Adelya explained hurriedly unable to hide the grim expression that twisted her features. "Should you your men fall into the river make for the south banks with haste, grasp the reeds, pull yourself out, and hide in the long grass yonder. Do not run." Fortuitously for the procession the Thrash had been preoccupied with the feast for some time and were already dispersing, leaving the fleshy remnants of the deer to sink to the river bed, yellow, reptilian eyes flashing above the water in irritation as the barges sailed in to dock. Several aggressively pressed their bulk against the hull of the barges causing them to list precariously, causing several Mur to cry out in terror, however the Thrash passed beneath them without incident. Adelya breathed a sigh of relief and released her white knuckled grip on the haft of her axe turning to face Krion and the Queen with a determined look. "Thank the Goddess for our luck...... moreover I apologise. It was not our intent to see you in any danger. Our lands are beautiful and blessed with an abundance of life however so to are they rife with a number of dangers. Regardless thanks to Il'yeth we are beyond danger." She said the last part with a warm and welcoming smile indicating to the great arch carved into the mountainside, where just beyond the first curve of the river a faint orange glow of afternoon sunlight could be seen glinting off the shallow waters and granite rock faces. "We call this place The Narrows. By river-way this is the gate to our capitol city. Before we go on ...have you ever walked a river Your Grace?" GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18394	Posted - 2015.04.21 01:03:00 - [126] - Quote (( Raven can you do a roll for who is about to become the first victim of a pirate attack )) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18394	Posted - 2015.04.21 01:45:00 - [127] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((I would just like to remind everyone of something. +åschild is a member of the Creed, although she is rarely ever summoned due to her position in Osmar society. She was also trained by her bodyguard, Krion.)) ((I figured the Man-mate would be good for something having won a tournament. NOW PIRATE ME UP! That or I'll choose who we hit.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18395	Posted - 2015.04.21 02:01:00 - [128] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Nation: Paric ((Note: The attack would have to be against Revon's ship as they leave as all others are docked for a while. If you wish for a re-roll I can do.)) (( Oh no. I'm talking about the Pirates the Covenant sent North to ply the main continent's coasts as your foreign leaders were arriving in Skadia. I don't expect it to actually yield or inflict any damage to your nations just is a useful plot point for future events. )) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18401	Posted - 2015.04.21 03:31:00 - [129] - Quote Cryptic WarDevil wrote: True Adamance wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: Nation: Paric ((Note: The attack would have to be against Revon's ship as they leave as all others are docked for a while. If you wish for a re-roll I can do.)) (( Oh no. I'm talking about the Pirates the Covenant sent North to ply the main continent's coasts as your foreign leaders were arriving in Skadia. I don't expect it to actually yield or inflict any damage to your nations just is a useful plot point for future events. )) ((So what's this whole pirate thing about?)) (( Wow I've spent a good 25 minutes trying to explain Skadii culture and religious practices in a simple manner while encompassing the general tenor of the plots as the God's devotee's vie for power. Suffice to say the Mur Covenant is partially responsible alongside Shuri'den'shalvys for dictating social policy......which dictates how the Skadii respond to foreigners like your people. The current centre of the Pantheon is Kalya, Goddess of Oceans, Prosperity, Fertility, and Unity and in recent succession the High Priestess is young, progressive, and many consider her policies to allow foreigners into the Isles is un-Skadii. Suffice to say in order to prove herself worthy of being High Priestess Mer'deen has reached out to a captain, Man'tiel, sworn into the service of the Covenant to go north and "claim the bounties of the oceans" by divine right.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18401	Posted - 2015.04.21 04:00:00 - [130] - Quote Cryptic WarDevil wrote: ((sorry man I've been absent from class for the past couple months, thanks for the sum up of it all)) (( I think you caught the wrong inflection. I was more marvelling at how hard it is to adequately convey the uniqueness of the culture as I see it to you guys. Suffice to say the Mur are an oceanic race of people who adore the concepts of unity, prosperity, and are not typically quickly to escalate to violence without cause. At present they are experiencing a period of great civil unrest as they try to understand their place in the world alongside the other races only having recently ended their own isolationist policies. Their power is centralised in three places. Harbour Masters act with the sole onus of ensuring the prosperity of the people of the various settlements throughout the Isles and to keep trade flowing and bettering the Mur people. The Covenant of Mur and the priestesses who dictate Skadii social policy policing moral compass of the Mur and ensuring unity and understanding between all sects of Mur is healthy. And in the enigmatic figure known only to the Osmarii and Paric as Shuri'den'shalvys [name not title] who is revered by the Mur as some kind of matriarchal figure and given the utmost respect that can be afforded a being. However I have a situation where Gods and various religious sects are vying for power, a young and rash priestess has dispatched the captain of an oath sworn privateer fleet to ravage a foreign coastline to secure her position and the continued acceptance of foreigners in the Isles. Kalm is struggling as an envoy to the main lands trying to ensure more prosperity for his people, while Ma'tyn is exploring a foreign nation to the south..... Thats not even including the climate, topography, culture, biology, etc of the Skadii that is being fleshed out as we speak. I'm trying to mix a bit of polynesian culture and mythology with some fantasy stuff at the moment.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18402	Posted - 2015.04.21 04:15:00 - [131] - Quote Cryptic WarDevil wrote: True Adamance wrote: Cryptic WarDevil wrote: ((sorry man I've been absent from class for the past couple months, thanks for the sum up of it all)) (( I think you caught the wrong inflection. I was more marvelling at how hard it is to adequately convey the uniqueness of the culture as I see it to you guys. Suffice to say the Mur are an oceanic race of people who adore the concepts of unity, prosperity, and are not typically quickly to escalate to violence without cause. At present they are experiencing a period of great civil unrest as they try to understand their place in the world alongside the other races only having recently ended their own isolationist policies. Their power is centralised in three places. Harbour Masters act with the sole onus of ensuring the prosperity of the people of the various settlements throughout the Isles and to keep trade flowing and bettering the Mur people. The Covenant of Mur and the priestesses who dictate Skadii social policy policing moral compass of the Mur and ensuring unity and understanding between all sects of Mur is healthy. And in the enigmatic figure known only to the Osmarii and Paric as Shuri'den'shalvys [name not title] who is revered by the Mur as some kind of matriarchal figure and given the utmost respect that can be afforded a being. However I have a situation where Gods and various religious sects are vying for power, a young and rash priestess has dispatched the captain of an oath sworn privateer fleet to ravage a foreign coastline to secure her position and the continued acceptance of foreigners in the Isles. Kalm is struggling as an envoy to the main lands trying to ensure more prosperity for his people, while Ma'tyn is exploring a foreign nation to the south..... Thats not even including the climate, topography, culture, biology, etc of the Skadii that is being fleshed out as we speak. I'm trying to mix a bit of polynesian culture and mythology with some fantasy stuff at the moment.)) ((Oh right gotcha, I really like what you're doing with your race, as you will come to see as MY side of the lore plays out, my race is a rather hard headed and rather enjoy violence, on the right people of course but violence nonetheless. But again I do very much like what you are doing, P.S. if anyone has a kik or wishes to commune with me, my kik is Kouta_Bear )) (( Same with your's. Hopefully we can push this RP enough that eventually someone declares war on someone else.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18417	Posted - 2015.04.21 23:23:00 - [132] - Quote Spademan wrote: (( How're we handling combat? Like, I can't just decide Godwin does one thing and successfully against Za'Harr )) (( Godwins Weapon Skill (WS) is likely to be very low since he's a merchant. However Willpower and Initiative would also be high alongside Leadership. E.g Godwin - WS 2 BS 3 S3 T3 A1 W2 I4 Ld 10. Cat King - WS 5 BS 2 S4 T4 A3 W3 I4 Ld 8 See war hammer stats)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18420	Posted - 2015.04.22 00:20:00 - [133] - Quote (( Boo roll multiple Assault Phases! The Dice Gods do not suffer meaningless statistics!)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18421	Posted - 2015.04.22 00:40:00 - [134] - Quote (( Seriously how the **** did you get that result. Biologically the Cathay Raht are designed to kill things...... no amount of smarts trumps raw the raw physical strength of a 120 something year old warlord who craves combat when literally every skill is higher than his opponents.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18421	Posted - 2015.04.22 01:18:00 - [135] - Quote Spademan wrote: The Narrows The local wildlife here was starling to say the least. It made +åschild wonder why the Mur hadn't hunted the Thrash's if they are such an issue, particularly if this was a prominent route to their capital. She composed herself to answer Adelya's question. "Alongside, yes. There is a particular river I'm quite fond of, some distance west of my city. The B+ínbrim we call it, we often use the location where it meets the sea to send off our dead." She paused a moment, remembering the day of her fathers funeral before speaing up again "Though nothing as fearsome as your Thrash dwells within. It is a peaceful place. But come now, we should continue should we not?" In Skadia........ The Narrows The Mur captain offered the Queen a deep, reverberating timbre, that would almost have sounded like humming as is to show her appreciation for the Osmarii traditions and general approval of the Queen's response. Behind them her warriors laboured in a lusty fashion to transfer their cargo from the barges forward holds and into a three long canoes that a pair of the soldiers could lift between them with relative ease. Leaving them to their work Adelya led the foreign procession from the docks and down onto a well trod path between the tall verdant strands of grass that covered the steppes and the reeds growing in thick patches from the river backs to the mouth of the narrows where the path simply sunk into the shallow waters that fed the river ways. "If you would follow me Your Grace and remove your foot wear" The captain said with a tender tone, holding out a hand for support. "I shall show you Errecist and the heart of this nation." The trip through the river way was mercifully short on the Osmarii who, in Adelya's opinion were a fine sort of people, showed a great natural affinity for the refreshing waters that ran The Narrows and took to the task at hand without complain. Around them the stone walls rose up as if to flank and guide them onwards, sparse outcroppings of rock dusted lightly with mosses or a dearth of stark protruding branches from which two dark shapes of regal bearing alighted from soaring up into the skies. Eventually the river way widened out it's waters growing deeper and colder towards the rivers centre forcing the procession to take to stony embankments layered with smooth pebbles under a glassy layer both of the like that were pleasant to the touch. As they rounded the last bend arms raised to sheild their eyes against the late afternoon sun with and the sounds of the Mur laying down the light weight canoes for the Osmarii could be heard they had finally arrived on the Mur Lake in sight of the Skadii capitol. ((Next post will be the description and a quick skip onto the main event! Also don't mean to be a **** about the last point. Perhaps rather than resolve and issue with physical strength between characters who have such obvious disparities they find a way to negotiate out of fighting himself by trade, a champion, a lie, etc.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18447	Posted - 2015.04.23 00:06:00 - [136] - Quote Near the Continental Drift....... on the High Northern Seas The small merchant vessel was flagging. Slowly but surely the crew of the Maelstrom were able to make out the frantic gestures of the merchant sailors, Paric by the look, as they gained several boat lengths on them in the span of an hour bearing down upon them as the shops graceful bulk carved through the rolling waves. The flagship barque cut a striking figure as it stalked the smaller corvette, like a beast in the middle of a hunt, sails billowing as it captured the fullness of the wind, and dozens of Mur scampered the length of the rigging, twin ballistae on the for and aft decks cutting sharp angles, while a bristling gun deck of Tal-Man long guns protruded from their gun ports like gaping maws. They'd spied the smaller ship on the horizon the day before yesterday and made it their business to linger in their wake on the far horizon cutting a path across their bow as if to make for the nearby coastline. It hadn't been until their sudden onrush at dawn that the merchant crew had truly had their suspicions confirmed and come to understand the depths of the danger they were in and taken to the open oceans in flight. The chase in of itself was an exhilarating thing that always brought a certain breathless quality to the Skadii Captain especially when the quarry was a smaller vessel, lighter in the water, and more manoeuvrable. As they raced on it became more apparent that the quarry was in a distressed state as their manoeuvres became increasingly more erratic. The result of the chase was inevitable, thought Man'tiel, as the their bow drew abreast the lighter vessel allowing him to perfectly understand the dawning horror as they saw rows of scale-armoured Mur skirmishers with rows of heavy great axes and elegant boarding hooks cast in long arcs looped over railing, rigging, and gouged heavy chunks from the ships wooden hull to capture their prey. The plan was a simple one. They Maelstrom's crew would get the opportunity to stretch the warship's metaphorical legs on the open oceans and run down the merchant ships. Skirmishers would then hook the vessel and the twin ballistae from the fore and aft decks would leave the vessel stricken. Any poor merchant men who did not die by the axe would be thrown over board to the Drowner's while those few chosen would be offered to the Storm. "We have them Man'tiel" came the excitable tone of Mak'kil a youth, hefting his heavy bladed axes, clearly enlivened by the prospect of plunder. "Peace Mak'i" said Tamarri'sen from his side, glancing between her captain and the melee below. Unlike the modestly clad priestesses in Ahlar Tamarri'sen like all of the the Storm God's women forwent clothing entirely preferring instead accentuate their physical forms with unique piercings of precious shells so as to alongside enduring aphrodisiacs bask amongst their peers as true embodiments of their god's aspect, Vinnetir's male desires. Still if the Maelstrom cut a figure on the open ocean then she herself cut a figure there on its bow there pierced through the nose, ears, nipples, and womanhood with various examples of shells taken from the most sacred of bays in the Isles. "Vinnetir ensures his followers enjoy the rewards of the flesh and of plunder....but only after the battle is won. Today you serve as one of the Drowners. Your work is for Laho Laonua, God of Depths. Keep ye this in mind." The freshly matured Mur's face visibly darkened, embarrassed to have shamed himself before the priestess, and he made to stalk away towards the other Drowners divesting themselves of weapons and armour on the aft deck and diving into the swirling waters below. "You should not tease the young so Tamarri'sen..... you do not know the effect you have on them." He whispered to the priestess, surreptitiously taking a moment to let his eyes rove over her, surprised when she offered him an unexpected girlish peal of laughter. "That being said he is a good lad." " I am what I am and a wondrous thing at that if I might say. My form is a reflection of what he wishes on Men. Is it my fault few should be able to withstand it's charms.... so what would you one of His Heralds have of me?" "I can think of a few things...." He muttered under his breath. She rolled her eyes at him. "Should he do his work well for Laho Laonua let him seek out Aun'hn and have see see to him. I am sure you could make him one of your crewmen if you let him sire a child on her.... but I do so like her. We will see what Storm God wills after the battle.... one you yourself should be joining if you are to keep your favour with Him." "Aye as usual you are correct. We shall discuss this later Tamarri'sen." He said grasping the haft of his own axe and leaping the balustrade onto the lower decks to join the battle. GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18460	Posted - 2015.04.23 22:50:00 - [137] - Quote ((Preparing the two big posts now..... Raven bear in mind you are the first of their many victims according to your dice roll. This pirates arc has a good bit of drama to it if you are interested.)) Near the Continental Drift....... on the High Northern Seas It surprised Man'tiel with the ease that the heavy bladed axes cleft through the flesh and bone of the foreign merchantmen who once over their initial surprise at the sudden boarding by the Mur aggressors had mounted an admirable counter offensive with an eclectic variety of arms comprise of sailing tools and exotic blades. All across the decks his warriors struggled against the foe while Tamarri'sen and a pair of likely looking adepts clambered across the bow of the vessel with ritual cutting implements to claim the ships Bow-Spirit. His vision. sharply defined against the swirling chaos of the melee, picked out a nearby Mur as she struggled against one of the Paric men who had pinned his axe to the floor with a heavy iron adze and was proceeding to brandish a long bladed rigging knife with which he'd already manage to draw blood. With a guttural grunt of exerted effort Man'tiel dropped the axe blade from his shoulder and cast it in a wide arc which caught the Paric sailor around the midriff and tore free with a wet fleshy sound trailing long bloody ribbons. The man stumbled awkwardly, a look of absolute shock dawning on his face as his mind caught up with the body, his lifeblood pumping from the wound in thick gouts to stain his clothes. He rounded on the Skadii woman, cursing her ineptitude in a garish tongue, bidding her back to the Maelstrom to be tended by the adepts however his expression softened at the pained look, eyes widened in horror lips quivering uncontrollably, upon her face as she gestured to several gashes upon her arms and torso. The rigging knife had flayed much of the flesh from her arms and cut from the wrist in a fightful winding patternas around her fore arm partially concealed by a spade like hand from which steam blood ran in trails. Man'tiel assessed the wound. He was no physician of any kind but he'd taken enough wounds in his decade long career as a marauder to know it was not likely to be lethal if the adepts could see to her, however recognised that was not her primary concern, nor would she likely be move in her panicked state. Fortunately for her the wound traces around the fin like protrusions jutting out from her fore arm and done them no more damage than colouring the thin membranous skin a dark crimson. Around them the battle was coming to a close with the merchant sailors either colouring the deck work from gaping wounds or having been driven into the waves below where the Drowners grasped them in chocking holds and dragged them deeper into the oceans to open their throats and suffocate before returning themselves to the surface. Tammari'sen had clambered up the side of the rigging and was brandishing aloft a splintered hunk of wood, that may have once resembled the jaw of some Paric animal, looking too like a goddess of victory. Only a small group of Paric still held out by the aft deck, defiant and standing atop the corpses of a three of Man'tiel's raiders, two armoured raiders and a nude form of an adept, their ranks having been swelled by two more recruits from below the decks having armed themselves more appropriately for combat. Bidding the wounded Mur stay out of the way Man'tiel gestured for the Marauders to surround the remaining Paric men and to overwhelm them at once. They swept in a moment later in concert Man'tiel receiving a sharp thrust from a blade that slipped under one of the scales of his armour at the hip below laying heavy punch across one of the female defenders jaw, knocking several teeth loose in bloody spittle, before goring the poor woman through the top of a leather boot with one of his own sharp, fin-like protrusions. Tamarri'sen will want them alive, he mused to himself as his axe sank into another man's arm, cleaving him from shoulder to hit in a fountain of gore. When he turn to face the Priestess she cast an appraising eye over the few remaining survivors and gestured to the woman and a helpless victim two Mur had pinned down and proceeded to stab repeatedly in the arm until he dropped his makeshift weapon. "Bring them!" the Captain roared in an authoritarian turn grasping the stricken woman at the nape of neck dragging her, while screaming in futile protest, arms limply struggling for the downed soldier who was also being lifted roughly to his feet. "Drown the rest, see to it their kin never learn their fate. We will not have any more survivors here." "And plunder their holds!" Cried Tamarri'sen, her voice shrill and laboured. "Vinetir provides for his own! Bring their cargoes but offer first to the gods before taking your fill. Silks for the Ocean Goddess. The lives of their menfolk and their Ship for the Depths God. Exhalation and silver for the Winds! The Storm shall claim these two for itself!" Within minutes the Mur had seen to the moaning survivors and put them to the mercy of the Drowners and set a funeral pyre for the victimised corvette. The holds have contained little enough of value for the Skadii themselves however the talley they are reaped for their Gods was no small thing and morale was high after the victory. Only thirty sailors had been present on the tiny ship and all now were dead saving the two Tamarri'sen had taken for her own, in return the small crew had presented a greater challenge to the heavily armed privateers than had been initially suspect. Nearly a dozen Mur bore wounds of varying severity and three lay dead with one confirmed to follow soon after. With their preparations completed Man'tiel stoop upon the aft of the Maelstrom overlooking the slowly burning carcass of his fleet's first victimised ship taking stock of the conflict and weighing up his potential options...... GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18460	Posted - 2015.04.23 23:19:00 - [138] - Quote Near the Continental Drift.....on the High Northern Seas The Paric made for good sailors in Man'tiel's opinion as did the Osmarii as he had been informed by Mer'deen while still in the Ahlar harbours. Their pick of targets was already limited and while he had no doubt his men could eke out victory on their terms he was acutely aware of his limited provisions and man power. A soft sound behind him caught his attentions. Aun'hn was one of Tamarri'sen's adepts, the one she had promised to Mak'i if his duties were completed satisfactorily, and like Tamarri'sen bore a striking sensuality that commanded attention. "Captain Man'tiel.......... the Mistress wish me to bid you her fond wishes. This offering to the Storm One is gratefully appreciated by the Covenant. You have outdone yourself." Her voice was demure and her disapproval of the cordial relationship between the High Priestess and their ship's Captain rather obvious. The Mur Captain snorted in a derisive manner. He had not the time for this woman's petty squabbling over who was the High Priestesses favourite pet and unlike her was very much so aware that Tamarri'sen considered all aboard the Maelstrom nothing more than pets or mild distractions. "Have you not somewhere to be? The screaming stopped a few minutes ago." He asked pointedly, gesturing for her to leave. "The chosen?" A single scaled eyebrow raised quizzically, then spoke with a growing venom. " No....we tended their wounds as you would expect. Your men were not kind to the man-thing.....nor you to the woman-thing. Goodness....six teeth, a broken jaw, and a fractured skull. She has been in and our of consciousness for hours. Once they heal the Mistress will find something to do with them...she apparently like the woman-thing." He nodded his understanding. The Storm God 's priesthood was secretive about its rituals and few aboard were exactly sure what occurred in the segregated adepts quarters and Man'tiel believed fervently that they were better of that way as it immediately changed the way one looked at the adepts and Tamarri'sen for the worse. Rather than engage the adept he felt tired and was longing for his own quarters. Aun'hn made no attempt to stop him leaving instead perhaps remained upon the aft deck to appreciate the burning altar to her own God's majesty. GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18460	Posted - 2015.04.23 23:51:00 - [139] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: ((Two things. What a waste of silk! And other valuable materials all gone! Second pulling people down under water and drowning them... Not sure the Tal-man would approve, what monsters I have created.)) ((The reason I have the Drowners [and I am really pleased with their concept] is to ensure no one gets away to warn people about the pirates. I need to revise the section about them but what I envisioned is a bunch of unarmoured Mur who wait in the waters beneath the ship, any who fall or are cast into the water are set upon, have weight's tied to their legs and have their throats cut. Redundancy so their bodies don't wash ashore and so that any carnivorous fishes consume the corpses. Same for the vessel. Burn it down and let it wreck in the open waters. I was actually really confused as to which direction to take the deal with the Tal-man since I initially had no idea your guys were so big...... now I have. I don't need guns....just cannon. Big Cannon + Fast Ship + Pseudo-Amphibious Murfolk = best pirates ever. However this is only Man'tiel and the Malestrom no one outside of Mer'deen and the privateers themselves even know they our are there raising hell.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18464	Posted - 2015.04.24 00:01:00 - [140] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: ((one ship disappearing, and is an Osmar. Not to strange happens all the time, Zinger, But if many start to go missing... Well we will have problems. Although ship wise the Tal-Mans build more on slow moving lots of cargo, with lots of cannons, and soon swift protectors will guide the convoys. I will like to see your fish men board a Tal-man cruiser then.)) ((Don't doubt that I can come up with a logically undeniable scenario of plundering a Tal-man Merchant Cruiser ..... the Maelstorm is not alone and I plan to have [though won't necessarily have] these dudes being a very interesting bunch. To be fair though I have scenarios for failure as well. No one wins every fight. As far as I know only Spade and I really chose oceans as our primary racial strength tile which makes him the safest at the comment...... but like every pirate genius I will set a trap har har har shiver me timber ye land lubbers.... and then Man'tiel will either be hung at the gallows or rolling in the ladies. For reference if I were to try to create the average Skadii using the Warhammer Stats they would look like this WS 4 BS3 St 4(3) T3(4) I3 A1 Wd 1 Ld9 Save +5 [Bear in mind normal humans look like WS 3 BS 3 S3 T3 I4 A1 Wd1 Ld8] Armament: Heavy Wave Axes, Scale Armour, Boarding Hooks Rules: Island Walk [suffers no penalty while moving through water rough and impassable terrain tiles] Options: Upgrade one Mur to Captain Upgrade Mur with Crossbows For a Cost a Unit may be nominated as Drowners [Units on Rough Water Terrain suffer +1 to hit and +1 to Wound if they have been the recipient of attacks by the parent Mur unit])) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18464	Posted - 2015.04.24 00:20:00 - [141] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: (Every Tal-Man pocket book will rest easy once he is hanging from the gallows. Plus if you are ever found involved (the crew doing it will give it away.) This might set off another war.)) ((Let's hope I clever and lucky enough not to get caught however since know one knows that there are pirates any different to the ones that already probably exist I have nothing to worry about.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18467	Posted - 2015.04.24 00:57:00 - [142] - Quote (( For reference if I were to try to create the average Skadii using the Warhammer Stats they would look like this Normal Human : WS3 BS3 S3 T3 I4 A1 W1 Ld8 Murfolk : WS4 BS3 S4 (6) T3 I4 (2) A1 W1 Ld9 Now before you get all defensive this is only a comparison between the Warhammer Humans who typically are a half way house between Horde Army and Quality Army and usually succeed based on interplay between units that leverage power, speciality, and raw numbers. Humans are nothing individually however together they are a nasty army to face. 3 is the basic and respectable statline and represents normal human attributes of a trained human soldier which varies based on specific unit. However these are considered to be the attributes of normal everyday rank and file soldiers. Values of 8 or higher are usually reserves for monstrous creatures of inhuman nature. Weapon Skill represents the aptitude of a soldier with his/her melee weapon and usually means in combat that soldier has a better chance to inflict a hit on a target. Skilled races like Elves and or Quality armies like Chaos Marauders usually have a WS4 attribute to represent their enhanced skill. Ballistic Skill represents ranged hand eye co-ordination and is used to determine whether a unit can hit with its ranged weapon. Sharpshooters and or groups with ranged affinity usually have a BS4 allocation to represent their preternatural ability with such weapons. Strength literally represents the force by which a hit is made. 3 is the average of a longsword or normal hand weapon combined with human might. Orks or Chaos Warriors are stronger men than normal Empire Humans and are gifted with a S4 Statistic. Strength is further modified by the type of weapon used. Great weapons increase how powerful the blows are, usually by +2, but come with a cost. Toughness is how hard your character can take a hit and their chances of not being killed by it. Dwarves are hardy ******* and are given T4. Initiative is a statistic that represent how fast a unit reacts to something like an attack and determines the battle order of characters. This statistic is also modified by the weight of weapons meaning that even if a character naturally can react to something their wargear weighs them down. Humans normally have a I4 allocation while Elves and other supernatural creatures have 5 of even 6, undead have low initiatives and almost always strike last. Attacks and Wounds represent the ferocity and durability of a soldier. On standard men the are limited to one per unit while on Heroes and Generals they receive 2 or more of each. Leadership represents the morale of a unit and its staying power. 8 is a normal stat and makes Humans some what courageous though partially reliant of generals to share their leadership. Cowards have values between 4-6 while heroes have values set usually to 10. Justification for Personal Allocations: Mur are a non-human race that are slightly taller and uniquely shaped. Since they have no weapons that require great skill to use their BS values are as normal humans however as a result of melee focus they again additional WS. Being taller and with powerful upper bodies and wide spade like hands the Skadii are naturally stronger than humans however this does not make them any more of less tough as their lower bodies are thinner and more frail. However all Skadii use Great weapons with give their attacks greater weight and strength bordering on the monstrous (6 = 4 Base +2 Great Weapons). Initiative is normal like a humans but the weight of such heavy weapons make them slow to attack unless on a charge meaning they cannot react expect to move faster than light weight enemies. Leadership through a a religion that expresses unity and temperament leads the Mur to be very level headed and less likely to flee or break ranks in combat where others might. Result: Mur are physically superior to humans but cannot field large numbers of troops. The Mur are a Close Quarters Skirmishing Army. Their soldiers are not inhumanly tough like the Tal-man, nor I suppose as well equipped or fast like the Paric and rely on fast, overwhelming assaults to win their battles.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18471	Posted - 2015.04.24 02:38:00 - [143] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((True, the Paric are very strange about their ships going missing and will begin a search for pirates, and wrecks. Armed and trained men too. I do like that you struck a poor merchent. The Paric refer to axes in a quite negative way, often preferring the Paric chain-blade and Vaga concealed blade.)) ((I can revise if it seems unfair but I did want to get across the idea that it was a bunch of armed soldiers against civilians and I'm cool with that but in this universe it is unlikely to see ships perish at sea? Either by existing pirates or by weather, or what have you? And hell yeah I'm going to have my characters hit innocent people, they will be nothing if not practical and true to themselves. I plan to write these guys like pirates though. I won't be keeping their ships in the same place, or flying the same flags, etc. I also was going to ask about the Creed and if they maintained a presence on ships and what their capabilities are so if I come to it and we encounter one how I should portray them. To my understand they are like a combination of knights an assassins. Capable soldiers and assassins but still fundamentally men.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18472	Posted - 2015.04.24 03:13:00 - [144] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((It is just fine, the situation really lives up to it's universe. The Creed are trained for about 75 years each and are well equipped. Likely to crush a pirate attack. Also a large number of Kami are among the Creed's ranks making them much more dangerous are the Kami can fight your drowners underwater. (Gills, Naturally sharp teeth, and finned feet.) Their ships are often convoys and made up of large Legion ships and small schooners.)) (( *Waggles finger in a cheeky fashion Check my nations tactical advantage tile bro! Come at me!)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18474	Posted - 2015.04.24 03:37:00 - [145] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Your men die on board and the Kami chase down the drowners, sound good? :p In all realism... The battle would go on well for the Paric. You fought a civilian Paric ship and lost 4, and have several wounded, perhaps have them stay away from Paric ships as a result of tough resistance from civilians of Paric blood?)) ((It's for the sake of realism. I won't ever write a combat scenario in which one side achieve a perfect result as I feel it lacks realism and a certain grace of story telling. I dare say whomsoever attack whom regardless of circumstance is likely to have men die. As for our combat perhaps one day we'll get into a direct battle until them I'll write these bro's like the pirates they are picking on the targets that ensure they have the offerings they need and running from Navy Fleets. I hope we all as story tellers have the courtesy not to silver bullet one anothers scenarios. If there is a fight I'd rather get a bit of to and fro RP going and talk out who wins OCC.)) GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18475	Posted - 2015.04.24 04:56:00 - [146] - Quote PENDING MY BEST POST YET! WELCOME TO SKADIA BITCHES! GÇ£That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die.GÇ¥ -The Nameless City
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18502	Posted - 2015.04.26 00:16:00 - [147] - Quote Cryptic WarDevil wrote: Cryptic WarDevil wrote: ((Just go with it bro x3 and fine 4 masts x3, DONT CRUSH MY DREAMS BRUH!)) ((Plus it's a ship MAINLY for hauling things like whales, large sharks, big creatures, etc. Which is why it has so little cannons, plus the cannons shoot burning balls of titanium that melts, like napalm (((dwarven engineering ftw))) so yeah)) (( Sorry I don't mean to be an ass but could you do a racial break down for the Cathay Raht like all the peeps did initially. Again don't mean to be an ass but this battleship seems like a sliver bullet to issues at sea.... lets not push a I HAVE THIS ONE POWERFUL THING THAT DOES X..... because I'm seriously getting close considering introducing my own Km long Leviathan silver bullet to match all the others that exist. From a more realistic stand point you could have entire fleets with competent sailors rather than one ultra powerful ship you would be adverse to losing in a battle. Because eventually we will be fighting battles and characters and assets will be lost..... best to make things you can accept to lose rather than those you cannot.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18530	Posted - 2015.04.27 23:10:00 - [148] - Quote Arkena Wyrnspire wrote: Sup. What's going on in this thread, then? (( We are in the middle of the Exploration Age [your favourite Arkena] with four main political entities on a continental drift the Tal-Man Giants, the Osmarii Paleskins, the reptilian Parians, and the massive Blood Raider Cabals. Meanwhile far from the continental drift the amphibious Skadii from the Sy'thal Isles, the Cat Meta-Humans, and dwarves have emerged onto the international spotlight. Currently the war between the Tal-Man and Blood Raiders has ended and the leaders of the Continental Powers are gathering in Skadii for a Festival, the first diplomatic event of the new age, to meet with the Murfolk's mysterious leader. Meanwhile Godwin of the Osmarii and Raul of the Parians are stuck in a foreign land with the Cathay Raht as the first men to ever come across them and their warship the Pahma-Su. At the same time a band of sanctioned Mur Privateers is cutting a bloody swathe up the coastlines of the main drift. Enough detail for you?)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18538	Posted - 2015.04.28 00:13:00 - [149] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((True, you forgot the Angelis, and the Dwarves have a population of 1, so I doubt they will reemerge as a superpower. Current Superpowers of the world: Parians, Osmarii, and the Blood Raiders. Others include: Angelis, Skadii, Tal-Man, the unknown people, Cathay Raht, and Abyss Creatures. The unknown and Abyss Creatures have no real influence at the moment.)) ((Eh we'll be smacking around your filthy scale skins in no time, never underestimate a smaller diplomatic entity.... they'll always sell you out and bite you in the ass. Lesson One of Total War: Shogun 2 Marry your daughter off the the nearest Vassal Clan ASAP! If you don't they'll snag your cities and agents with impunity late game.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18540	Posted - 2015.04.28 00:46:00 - [150] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Most Paric are selfless, Fearing not death nor injury. They also commonly believe the highest king to be equal to the lowest beggar. When they are hurt however they tend to be rather vengeful, sometimes planning the revenge out for the average Osmar lifespan. Last Bit: They believe they should each be able to care for themselves, yet should help the community as a whole. (Hunting, medicine, ect.) If your men treat them well, they may take a more brotherly response, or hostile if treated poorly. If you are referring to their mental capibilities, well they are slightly above average, due to long lifespans and having close relations with the Angelis (Knowlege seekers.))) (( Just how they think. That should help enough. Are they particularly divisive in terms of mentality by sex [male/female) or does this not play into their culture?)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18584	Posted - 2015.04.29 01:52:00 - [151] - Quote ((Character has unique laugh! Skadia and other nations implode. We lose, Game over man.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18585	Posted - 2015.04.29 02:17:00 - [152] - Quote Cryptic WarDevil wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((Character has unique laugh! Skadia and other nations implode. We lose, Game over man.)) ((are you surprised about that? Even Koutan had a unique laugh )) (( Dibs on "Kek kek kek kek!" DIBSIES ON IT DOUBLE TROUBLE DOG DIBSIES!)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18625	Posted - 2015.04.29 23:42:00 - [153] - Quote In SkadiaGÇªGÇª..the Heart of the Nation, Errecist As the blinding light of the evening sun faded behind a low hanging cloud the scene before the two foreign leaders spread out before them, equal parts majesty and beauty in its most natural form. There ahead of them extending some hundred kilometres into the distant embankments of low lying foot hills was a verdant rolling valley. Presided over by gentle hillscapes on which gnarled thickets of ancient trees coil abundant throngs of crustaceous Phrsam, mammalian life, and flushed songbirds lay concealed, bathing in the dappled light between the over arching boughs. Hundreds of smaller river ways fed the grand movement that was the Mur River Proper like glistening arterial feeds from hidden mountainous caches. conjuring wondrous images of many layered water falls crashing down upon rocky shores. Where these hidden wonders lay great misty clouds of spray rose up in the air. They gleamed in golden light of the evening as molten silver might under the light of a forge though more so with a transcendental beauty that bespoke the gentle touch of an artist. As if some grand author had seen fit to lavish exquisite detail upon them. The air was heavy with moisture and within minutes one became acutely aware of the thin opalescent film of water that had formed over their bodies being both refreshing and not altogether unpleasant. Dominating the valley sections of the valley basin closest to where both Aeschild and Revon traversed the natural barriers of the primal mountain passes was a vast lake of crystal clear lake. Fed by the snaking Mur River that extended into obscurity at the furthest reaches of sight it truly was a magnificent sight. Perfectly flat, flaring, and completely serene. At its centre extending out from the sable shores, suspended by marble piles ground into jutting spires of stone, and supported by Mur crafted floating dockyards and lake districts the city of Errecist rose up in a spiral patternas around a single, lonely, central tower that dominated the city. At its foundations Errecist was a wondrous feat of Skadii engineering and masonry, circular platforms of neat stone work which comprised augur like structures that had the look of shells, which gently rested upon the surface of the lake inter connected by arching bridges and walk ways. Above these on the raised piles similar platforms carved into the natural stone bore the weight of finer structures though lesser in size in and undecapalet whorl around the central tower which both Sephrena and Adelya both identified as the Coral Tower. The tower itself was a given and apt name and rose through the centre of the cityGÇÖs skeleton of walkways and platforms as if carved from the very stuff that gave it its namesake. From their distant positions both the Osmarii and the Parian envoys could make out the porous looking surface from which great stalks of corallian lime rose and curved protectively around the upper platforms like leaves. At its zenith the tower itself have been clearly shaped by craft men to bear the tapered edifice of Grand Conch from whose aperture a grand stream of water cascaded down obscuring the lowest levels of the tower in mist. Hitherto the Murguard had stood mute before the spectacle allowing the Osmarii and Paric envoys to appreciate the fields below however now took to action with renewed purpose that gave way to open excitement as Adelya ordered the final canoes to the readied and Sephrena gentle reminded the carriage driver to continue onwards. As both parties made their way towards the tower it became obvious that a number of much smaller settlements were dotted around the valley itself, modest crofts from which shepherds herded throngs of Phrsam and other indigenous creatures. Alongside these workmen young children could be glimpse as they darted through the long grass waving long sticks with fabrics tied to them pretending to be the captain of their own vessels. Occasionally a secluded cottage could see seen poking through the gnarled thickets, or a thin plume of smoke from the valley foot hills, the only indication that the deeper sections of the woodland had even been settled. The closer the parties came to the citadel the more apparent it became of the general populations of the Skadii who lived upon the lake. As the River Run and Roadways met dozens of Mur could be seen submerged beneath the lake surface or on the river banks, in mated pairs, bathing the last light of the evening. They moved through the lake with an utter surety and grace, the like they could not match on the land as blurred, as formless shapes their presence fleeting. Here was the home of the Skadii people. A place so central to their culture that it housed their greatest treasure, the heart of their nation, the seat of their ShuriGÇÖdenGÇÖshalvys. "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18646	Posted - 2015.04.30 22:53:00 - [154] - Quote ((Get's yo assess posting gentlemen)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18702	Posted - 2015.05.04 01:09:00 - [155] - Quote Spademan wrote: (( Sorry, haven't had the time to formulate a worthy response to True's post. Loved the "As if some grand author had seen fit to lavish exquisite detail upon them." part. And Cryptic, it's Raven's captain, ship and legion that's helping Godwin leave, so it's up to him to set sail.)) In Skadia....... In the Company of Aeschild, Errecist The trip across the lake was surprisingly brief as the Osmarii took to the small canoes admirably allowing the Mur to swim alongside them, easily keeping apace, darting too and fro under the glassy waters with an undisguised joy. Even Adelya seemed in high spirits though she restrained herself and remain beside Aeschild's canoe peaking up from beneath the surface every now and then to ensure all was well. They docked at one of several wel manned dock that more closely resembled an open air amphitheatre resting upon one of the dozens of lower platforms that Adelya identified the eastern most harbour, known to the locals of the floating platform as Eastwatch, and disembarked with their belongings to a chorus of mirthful cheers. The Mur crowed around the newly arrived party welcoming them all, bearing their throats for but a moment, before gesturing for the returned warriors and their charges to ascend winding stair cases and rope bridges to the upper platforms. The party was eventually led up onto one of the highest platforms situated some two hundred meters above the lake surface where the white augur like buildings that resembled shells dominated their view like some semi-translucent palace that resonated with the pinkish hue of the evening skies. Funnelling of a section of the massive down pour from the Coral Tower that dominated the city scape, its Conch-like aperture and delicate aspect were clearly visible to the Queen and her company, the Mur had successfully constructed a gently sloping aqueduct that led into a a series of fountains and pools allowing them to cultivate a bed of riverside wild flowers. "My Queen...." Adelya said in a matter of fact tone, pressing her way between two awestruck Osmarii guardsmen. " It was remiss of me not to bid you welcome at the docks. However be welcome here Queen of the Osmar people. Here you and your men shall stay until your peers arrive in force. We have prepared rooms that we believe will suit your needs just fine and have laboured to weave moisture resistant fabrics to ensure your sleeping quarters free of dampness. We......" The Mur warrior was cut short by a the sounding of a grand horn that was so sonorous in timbre to those upon the highest level of the city that it momentarily cast the world into an eerie silence. The Mur on the platform looked taken aback, stunned, some struck mute, all gazing upwards towards the tower from where the source of the commotion had arisen. "She knows you are here My Queen...... She no doubt longs to see you and your Man-mate in the coming days and announces your arrival to our people. The city is yours my Queen for as long as your should wish it, the valley, the rivers, the lake and the lake bed will be yours, you have only to ask." "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18718	Posted - 2015.05.04 12:55:00 - [156] - Quote Arkena Wyrnspire wrote: ((A'ight. True, your explanation interests me. How should I go about getting involved? Fair warning, though - I am probably terrible at RP.)) (( Arkena come to be because I am clearly the least pleb like in this thread and therefore the least likely to soil his pristine white diner jacket, gloves, and top hat with my mere presence. All you have to do is create a Nation, establish who they are, what they are, and what level of development they are at and join in the fun. Just RP that crazy ass world power you want to be when you and Cat play Civ 5 and go for gold however remember that this is a fantasy world so you are not constrained by reality over much though trying to keep things within reason is appreciated. For Example: I control the Murfolk, otherwise known as Skadii, from a series of archipelago Isles south east of the main continental drift. My people are tall, blue skinned, barrel chested amphibious humanoids with fish like characteristics. They swim quickly in water, are sailors and scavenger, though their natural gifts come at a cost and they eschew personal fire arms instead preferring cross bows and heavy bladed axes for skirmishing duties aboard ships. Also you need to work on a racial break down so we can have a clear idea of your nations core focuses. From there how you RP them is up to you. Militant Nation who declares war on X faction is just as promising as Y faction who prefers to treat behind closed doors. Example: Skadii Murfolk Strength: Textile Development and Sailing Weakness: Protracted Assaults against entrenched foes Base Terrain: Temperate Archipelago Islands with rolling plains and rivers. Strength Terrain: Riverways and Oceans Weakness Terrain: Deserts and Tundra Etc For reference currently existing are Giant-kin Tal-Man who stand much taller than normal humans and wield heavy armour and larger calibre rifles and Cannon Serpentine Parians and their reptile pets the Kami who are a well equipped nation protected by Assassin-soldier of the Creed Osmarian Humans who are more of less standard humans with a martial and maritime culture and provide a flexible balance. Massive Population Enclaves of the human Blood Raiders in the West who threaten the Tal-Man with violence every so often. Underground Dalmascan culture has been brought back and they seem to be militarised and well equipped to fight on land. The Cat like Cathay Raht from the neighbouring continent are a warrior people and have kept their policies to themselves. The humanoid amphibian Murfolk who traditionally are peaceful but have a maritime culture of piracy and some twisted gods. I'm about to explore a new continent if you are interested in starting a culture there.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18723	Posted - 2015.05.04 19:03:00 - [157] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Actually it transitioned over to RP around page 18 - 20, which screwed a bit of it up. All is permitted if it is reasonable. Stacking bonus? Yes. In case you have yet to notice, we also have rolls, which signals an event. Each little event is custom tailored to the target's culture. (Skadia isn't going to have a drought anytime soon.) I'd advise changing the name of your nation/people. There is nothing particularly wrong with it, except you may wish to use a shorter name. Up to you.)) ((Wait we can stack ****?)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18725	Posted - 2015.05.04 20:58:00 - [158] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Yes.)) (( That might have been helpful to know earlier.... so what are everyone's terrain strengths now stacking is a thing?)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18726	Posted - 2015.05.04 22:33:00 - [159] - Quote ((Country Name: Skadia, Capital: Erricist Port City: Rhen -Ys Population: Minimal (Upgrading Slowly to Moderate due to RavenGÇÖs prosperity roll) Borders: Largest Island Nation attached to an Archipelago Cultural Focus: Sailors and Scavengers Religious Focus: Pantheonic covenant with emphasis on Goddess of Fertility and Prosperity Kalya Current System of Governance: Autocratic Minocracy Cultural Strengths: Production Cultural Weaknesses: Meek Population Capital Terrain: Lakeside Provincial Terrain Strengths: Naval Terrain Weaknesses: Tundra, Desert, Volcanic Regions (Arid Regions) Country Terrain Strengths: Resource Rich Country Terrain Weaknesses: Isolated Resource Strengths: Textile Development Resource Weaknesses: Dependency on Wood Murfolk Appearance: River Mur Isles Geography: Verdant Islands, Towering Waterfalls from Low-lying Mountains, Jagged Coastal Rock Formations, , Cities alongside Nature, Harsh Seasonal Weather Phenomena. Also a series of [url=http://th09.deviantart.net/fs70/PRE/i/2013/218/9/4/fantasy_cave_by_famalchow-d6gv3by.png] Oceanic Ruins beneath the islands. Technology Level: 5.0 Quick question. What's the point of point terrain strengths? Surely at somepoint X soldier/sailor becomes competent enough to be considered on par with most every other sailor out there and won't this just cause us all to only take fights that benefit out specific strengths on one environment than we chose. E.g- I only take fights on the oceans where I have thought it might benefit us to pick up to three strengths and three weaknesses each being different to try to encourage more interaction.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18726	Posted - 2015.05.04 23:26:00 - [160] - Quote Spademan wrote: True Adamance wrote: ...Snip to save space... "You have my deepest gratitude for your service Captain. I must say you have a beautiful city, and I should like to explore it. But it is late, is it not? I think I shall rest for the night" The Queen turned away from Adelya and towards one of her guardsmen who had been unpacking the Queens items. Among these was a brooch made from bronze. It was adorned with the image of a Great Stag etched with spirals and decorated with precious garnet stones. It was a particularly nice example of Osmar craftsmanship. The Queen picked it up and turned back to Adelya. "But first, take this. A gift. I know you are not fond of the 'gaudy silks', but if you are ever required to wear them this should fit nicely. If I have need of you further I shall send a messenger." In Skadia....... Errecist, Upper Wards Adelya took the metal-disc-thing from the Queen with a look of reverence. Amongst Mur society foreign trinkets and other exmples of Landborn craftsmanship took on a much greater value and this piece was especially beautiful with its elaborate etchings, a landborn animal spoke Adelya's common sense, and spiral pattern that spoke directly to the Skadii aesthetic preference. "It is beautiful My Queen." She muttered staring at the garnets curiously, then looking up at the Queen. " I shall treasure this always and wear it with pride. We shall leave you and your Man-mate to their businesses and withdraw to a lower platform, guards shall still be posted but they shall not interfere with you." She let out a short, high pitched call and her warriors fell into disciplined ranks marching down the rope-ways towards the lower platform, axes resting on over their scale-armoured shoulders, led by Il'yeth who was becoming more a commander of her men with every passing day. Before she left the Osmarii to tend their own she turned to the Queen. "When next we meet I shall have something for you that shall cement our friendship. I hope you accept....and if you every get tired of the Man-mate..." She winked at the Queen, the second water-proof eyelid appearing once briefly to conceal her ice blue eyes. "Then you can call upon me any time." With that she left the assembled Osmarii, who looked a little baffled, collected Il'yeth from their barracks on the platform below and took the woman and several of the newer Murguard to her company down to the middle wards for some well earned carousing. "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18759	Posted - 2015.05.05 22:01:00 - [161] - Quote In Skadia...... Errecist, a few days later. As the Phrsam draw carriage approached the city Spehrena took the opportunity to indicate to a great many natural features of the valley that she thought Revon and his men might have a particular interested in allowing them to pass the time from the low foothills to the very lake shore quickly. She only stopped speaking when the clattering legs of the chitinous septopod became too loud to continue civilised conversation instead choosing to point out in an excited fashion the upper reaches of the Coral Tower and the highest platform upon which flew am example of the Osmarii colours. They disembarked the carriage amidst a vast gathering of Lake-Mur who, seemed less intimidated by the Parian Lord than their River and Coastal kin, bore their throats in the traditional sign of welcome and began to unburden the languishing Phrsam. Their ascent to the upper wards of the city was decidedly longer as Sephrena took Revon on a more round about route allowing them to pass through several of the middle tier platforms where temples and pleasure gardens seemed to be the norm for the Mur. "Well My Lords we have finally arrived." Sephrena announced in a formal fashion. "Quarters have been prepared for your kinsmen. Dry-nets are in place though if you like we can remove them...." They gained the upper wards not long after that whereupon the young Mur woman let out a groan of frustration, ushering Revon and his kin towards their accommodations in a futile gesture to conceal herself, as the warrior Adelya and Il'yeth exited the sable palace making her way over the the new arrivals. "Welcome My Parian Lords and Head of the Creed." The female warrior greeted them in a jovial fashion, which altogether did not suit her well, though her voice contained a slight hint of distrust at the sight of the reptilian eyes. "And hail to you little Phrena. It is good to finally have you all with us. We have men stationed on site Lordship so fear not for anything and like our Osmarii guests this valley and its bounty are yours so long as you are here and ask it." Sephrena was somewhat taken aback by the welcome these Parian's had received. Adelya had more reason than most to bear issue with the Parian's reptilian appearance but for some reason beyond her being back in her city after so long seemed to have done wonders for her irritable personality. This certainly was not the diplomatic blunder I thought it would be, she thought, breathing a sigh of relief. "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18762	Posted - 2015.05.06 00:03:00 - [162] - Quote ((Vash if you are bringing the Tal-Man I need a post from you. Also if the Dalmascans are arriving we need a post from them. only the Cathay Raht because I don't know they exist yet and the Steam Punk British, since I also do not know if these fellows exist, are not invited. Blooders welcome too.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18766	Posted - 2015.05.06 01:31:00 - [163] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((True, the Dalmascans are still unknown to many nations as they, of Vaga blood, were assumed to have disappeared years ago. )) ((Dude said he was coming to Skadia.... nor sure how but he said so.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18767	Posted - 2015.05.06 02:26:00 - [164] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: Revon said something to his guards in their tongue before greeting the Mur in the common language. "Greetings, we thank you for the efforts put into our arrival. I am Revon, of the Paric Nation." He sensed a bit of distrust coming from all of the Mur. "I sense discomfort and distrust. We apologize for our... unsettling appearances, although we can not help it." He turns to his personal guards. "Oali Nebal." With Revons words each drew their sword, put it to the ground and bowed before stating their names. In Skadia....... Highest Ward of Errecist For the briefest of moments Sephrena was terrified that the Murguard Commander and her Lieutenant would draw their axes against the Paric envoy however her fears were allayed as the two warriors simply raised their chins to bear their throats in a sign of welcome. 'My apologies Lordship. By my nature I am no one quick to forget those predatory eyes but any similarities you have with the Skaum end there. It shall not be upon physical traits Shuri'den'shalvys makes her measure." Adelya announced firmly. "It is my understand that your people are warriors Lordship. If nothing else that qualifies for a measure of respect between us." Sephrena found it odd how the woman could have identified with the foreign dignitary as quickly as she had and had to admit that she felt a little jealous since her own curiosity regarding the Paric had peaked during the journey as she had listened to their sibilant phonetics. Her thoughts were scattered by a sonorous sounding of a Great Horn, yet another welcome to Skadia's foreign guests. "Perhaps if you have free time you or your men might like to attend the Festival proceedings. Assuming the Tal-Man Kin'Kre arrive in a timely fashion Shuri'den'shalvys is like to treat with you all as soon as possible. Otherwise let us know how we may best serve." "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18768	Posted - 2015.05.06 03:21:00 - [165] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: "Yes. My people tend to train around 50 common years for combat." He paused. "Ah'Kati Myr." As if by nature the warriors grabbed their weapons and sheathed them. "I was wondering if any of you know of a guard with our eyes that happen to be within the ranks of the Queen's guard." In Skadia........ Highest Ward of Errecist She watched the Paric warriors sheathe their swords as one though refrained from speaking as it was not her place and served her people not to make rash comments. However it was the question regarding the Queen's Man-Mate that concerned her more than anything. " I might know of this man-thing." Adelya stated, confused. "To what purpose do you enquire after him Lordship?" "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18769	Posted - 2015.05.06 04:10:00 - [166] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: "He is, obviously, of Paric blood. A member of the Creed who has long since been out of contact." In Skadia........ Highest Ward of Errecist Sephrena glanced up the at the other Mur woman who had a stern, thoughtful look on her face as she addressed Revon as if wondering whether it were prudent to reveal what she knew of Krion. It occurred to Sephrena at that point that like her own people there might be some who had a poor relationship with the ruling powers and that they knew little of the Paric political situation. She thought of her Uncle Man'tiel who was particularly reviled by much of the upper stratum of the Covenant. "I'm sure the Tideswan here is merely concerned for the safety of our foreign guests....that is of course to say 'if' this man is here." She chimed in, speaking a little too quickly. " I'm sure if we have your word that you will not let your peoples concerns become her business she would be more than willing to tell you what she knows." The taller Mur Warrior nodded. "Phrena has the right of it. Friend or foe....who be this man to you?" "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18778	Posted - 2015.05.06 04:50:00 - [167] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: "Friend. He regularly accompanies the Queen." In Skadia...... Highest Ward of Errecist "The Queen's Man-mate is likely within the chambers behind you. That is if he and the Queen did not depart this morning to visit the valley or the lower wards." "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18821	Posted - 2015.05.06 20:44:00 - [168] - Quote Arkena Wyrnspire wrote: ((Does anyone have any objection to steampunk airships?)) (( This one? Or this one? I have no problem with either. Eventually everyone will develop through the tech tiers to flight. However we do have existing flying things so yeah airships are cool by me)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18821	Posted - 2015.05.06 22:03:00 - [169] - Quote Arkena Wyrnspire wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Did this 2AM last night. http://imgur.com/Prq9OsI)) ((Hm. I think we could improve on this with more information? I'd like to offer to create a map. If everyone posts details of their territories or draws their own territory, I can make a cohesive map populated with random landmasses (rather than the ridiculous amount of ocean currently present) and leave some unknown areas for people yet to join.)) ((The Map supplied that denotes the settled landmass is roughly the one these guys have been using now, which I only really created in paint and Raven expanded, so assuming you keep the existing settled lands as they are it's cool by me. For reference Skadia is South East if the Paric (red) coast line. Also now that I understand how Helium is extracted in future I can come up with a real explanation about where mine comes from and why I need tot trade for additional reserves. )) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18822	Posted - 2015.05.06 22:22:00 - [170] - Quote Arkena Wyrnspire wrote: ((Another player has entered the game! Country Name: Thaeton Capital: Kayikx Population: Small Borders: Island nation, central island in island cluster Cultural Focus: Inventors and navigators Religious Focus: Atheism Current System of Governance: Democracy Culture: Clannish groups arising out of the natural separation of the islands in the homeland. The islands have a rivalry with each other. Huge emphasis on invention, engineering, and discovering the unknown in Thaeton culture. Capital Terrain: Floating Islands* Terrain Strengths: Aerial, Mountainous, Ocean Terrain Weaknesses: Volcanic x3 (utterly intolerable for Thaetons), tundra Country Terrain Strengths: Highly defensible due to isolation Country Terrain Weaknesses: Agricultural difficulties due to industrial development and lack of suitable farmland, isolation means ground trade is difficult Resource Strengths: Immense deposits of metals and helium Resource Weaknesses: Lack of food Floating islands - not -exactly- floating, but are essentially large islands at high altitude supported by spurs of rock. Some islands -are- floating, but none of the main islands are. Something like this: http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs51/f/2009/263/a/b/floating_island_by_molybdenumgp03.jpg where only the very small islands actually float. Justified by weirdness with the curiously polarised metal deposits and the magnetic field in the area. The area is very mountainous and difficult to settle with the exception of the island plateaus and ground plateaus. This means that finding farmland is very difficult. I'll go ahead and do some backstory now. The Thaetons were always an inventive people. Their difficult land made the quest for easier ways of doing things a necessity rather than a luxury. Surrounded by natural phenomena, and given motivation to invent, science and invention boomed. However, the Thaetons were a fractious lot for a long time - each island was by its nature very isolated from its neighbours, with contact requiring a difficult climb down the vast cliffs under each island and then another one up into the other island. This made trade difficult. This changed with the discovery of a strange gas in the mines beneath the island of Kayikx. A fascinated scientist experimented with these gases and found that they seemed to be lighter than the air itself. Later, an engineer created a basic craft which succeeded in delivering a letter to another island. This discovery stimulated the Thaetons across all the islands - if such crafts could be built, could larger ones be built for people? Could the islands trade between each other in significant quantities for the first time in their history? The headstart that the island of Kayikx had proved telling in the subsequent race to build the first skyship. This ship, dubbed Voyager, managed to carry a crew of three to another island. The creation of skyships revolutionised the Thaetons - free trade and travel quickly followed, and the islands united under one government - based on Kayikx, given its socio-economic significance as the first developer of skyships. Though skyships were dangerous craft, they had firmly captured the dreams of the Thaetons and living as they did, few had any fear of heights as it was. Now the eyes of the Thaetons turn outwards, beyond their borders. For exploration of the unknown has always been a tenet of all the island peoples, and skyships have opened the way. The skyships used by the Thaetons look more like this than this. This is down to a few things. Firstly, they haven't discovered steam or mass metalworking yet, so much of the second style's lower portion is out, and they don't have gunpowder sufficient for weaponry yet. This limits them to sails. Secondly, the location of the air balloons tends to be more inside the hull for protection - like this but with a vastly lower technology level - wood and sails. Thirdly, these are not immense craft, yet. Most skyships are smaller craft, with the largest crew being under 100 so far. This will rapidly change, but it's not starting out like that. So. Small floating wooden tradeships. Onwards! I'll do a first contact thing with an exploration ship wandering out into the vast unknown tomorrow. )) ((Depending on how close you are to our landmass. Aka are you South or me or West of the Continent? If you are south I have a ship about to discover a new continent. If not then yeah might need to do first contact. Though looking at the map your landfall would put you on the coast of Blood Raider lands....... shivers with horror Like the design, gave yourself some nice flaws and potential to grow. E.g- I need to have someone create a breech loading rifle so that no 'mishaps' with gun powder and the naturally oily Skadii skin does not occur in future. Make yo post heathen!)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18822	Posted - 2015.05.06 22:52:00 - [171] - Quote Arkena Wyrnspire wrote: ((So, uh, Raven's map isn't massively helpful. So I know what Spade's lands are like - Thank you, Spade. Who do those coloured islands to the east belong to? Can anyone tell me what the other landmasses are? Can someone just give me an overview of the world? Then I can educate myself on what's where. I'll be reading through this thread but do you all have cohesive ideas? If you do, it'd be good to post them so a good map can be produced.)) (( Can you do a mock up of this http://imgur.com/X3zLzLR Red - Parian Creed Light Green - Osmar Kingdom (Proper) Dark Green - Osmarr Territory of Howe Yellow - Tal-Man Sovereign (Now has a section in the north dominated by the underground Dalmascan Empire) Blue - Blood Raider Cabal Light Purple - Skadii Principality Dark Purple - Cathay Raht Tribes? Silver - Angelis Islands Red, Silver, and Blue are controlled by Raven Light and Dark Green are controlled by Spade Yellow is controlled by Vash Light Purple is controlled by me. Dark Purple is controlled by Cryptic And the Underground Dalmascans who are going to be Orange are controlled by Crownrule)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18824	Posted - 2015.05.06 23:25:00 - [172] - Quote ((Edited with pictures of how I imagine the races.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18825	Posted - 2015.05.07 00:00:00 - [173] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: True Adamance wrote: ((Edited with pictures of how I imagine the races.)) ((Very well done!)) ((For Arkena I found a video clip.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18828	Posted - 2015.05.07 01:32:00 - [174] - Quote In Osmarium.......... The Skadian Embassy and Trade Houses With the aid of the Osmarii craftsmen the Mur had for the first time in their collective histories completed the preparations for their own Festival of Oceans in a foreign lands, and he had to admit in a very short amount of time. Kalm had beeen somewhat impressed by the swiftness by which the Osmari had copied his carpenters own styles and the made their own rudimentary copies of their tools and had offered them more gold in exchange for their services on future endeavours where his people were concerned. Those that did not staff the Embassies or crew the warship rather conspicuously docked in the main harbours had gone their separate ways many requesting employment from the Osmarii dock masters as labourers, some roving further afield to outlying farms, while two of adepts of the Storm God who had accompanied the Skadii had established themselves at an upmarket pleasure house and were making a name for themselves as exotic. His own people, those who had stayed to establish a Mur presence in the city, had also done an admirable job establishing the festivals presence throughout the local merchant quarter spending much time negotiating with merchants of various for permission to include their stalls and store in the festival proceedings and purchasing large quantities of foods, silks, and various examples of Osmari craftsmanship. It was no surprise then that ocean front docks had become a riot of coloured fabrics and banners with traditional Mur spiral patterns and Seahawk sigils originating from the Trade Houses and extending down the streets. "With this I think I am satisfied." He told an assembled party, both Mur and Osmarii intermingling freely, with a note of pride colouring his voice. " I make special thanks to our Osmarii friends for they have aided us in this endeavour as we had not expected. Should you attend the festival proper you shall be our guests of honour and attend our gatherings in the Great Hall." He had to admit to himself that as a trained soldier he'd not expected to enjoy the civilian life of Foreign Envoy as much as he had and the days since his arrival in the city had passed in a blur of administration and labouring. He attended the gathers of the regular diplomatic circles that was expected of his role and often found the Osmari notions of propriety a curiosity though he had recently taken to wearing a tailored mantle and breeches combination so as not to cause commotion amongst the women of the court. A screeching from above let him know to extend a leather bound arm as Sieg dropped in from above wrapping his talons around Kalm's fore arm exhorting a grunt of effort from the Mur-man. As the might bird did so it twisted to expose a small cylinder wrapped around its leg at the same time snapping up a small chunk of meat clasped in its sharp beak. Sieg, the enormous Sy'Thal Seahawk, had also proven himself invaluable during the preparations carrying missives from his offices to the Ambassador and to various merchants about the district and to his surprise had become a favourite amongst the children who tossed scraps of meat to him from balconies but dared not approach him. It was certainly better than than the rash of complaints they'd initially received from irate Osmarii claiming to have seen the huge creature flying off into the distance with their cat clasped in its talons. "You will get fat if you keep letting them feed you." He chided gentle, drawing a short letter from the Ambassador once more requesting their festival not obstruct harbour traffic, cursing as the hawk snapped at his long ear spitefully. 'Ah Sh'tl can you bring me that letter it wrote earli....ah yes that's the one...roll it up and place it in the cylinder... that's a good lad." A moment later, in a shower of old feathers, Sieg was gone again making for the castle walls. He turned back to his assembled craftsmen and women who were looking up at him expectantly waiting to be dismissed from work. "One more job lads and ladies. Find us a tavern because the first rounds are on me." "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18845	Posted - 2015.05.07 22:05:00 - [175] - Quote ((Btw Errecist though the valley is more dominated by the lake and forests instead of farms and the city is suspended upon basalt spires of rock rather than a plateau.)) In Skadia........ Several days after the arrival of the Osmarii and Paric envoys had made their way to the capital city the Tal-Man made first landfall within the Sy'Thal Isles landing in the Northern Dockyards of Rhen-Ys to a warm welcome by Master Dammel and his attendants. Having already prepared the taciturn Kin'kre, giant in the Skadii tongue, a means of transportation befitting his size that Mur ensured that he made the city limits of Errecist in swift time passing along the river road in much the same way Revon and his kin had. His arrival in the city, after lunch time the following day, caused a great stir amongst the Mur of the lower wards who crowded around in awe having never seen a Landborn Kin'kre of such stature. He was greeted by the alluring second in Command of the Murguard Il'yeth who, had in the days since her arrival taken to wearing a revealing Maera of blue silk, led Gray up to his accommodations in the Upper Wards. Upon gaining the heights were the foreign guests were quartered another loud sonorous blaring of the seemingly ethereal horn sounded announcing that the final guest expected of the Landborn races had come. If all was ready, she thought to herself joyously, the festival would begin the following morning. ((Get yo pre-festival posts in Spade, Revon, and Vash if you need them. I have three rapid fire posts to fire out quickly explaining what is going on during the Festival for all of my different characters.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18848	Posted - 2015.05.08 02:55:00 - [176] - Quote Cryptic WarDevil wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((I am just ready for the festival.)) ((ok true, don't give away the festival but give me the reason its happening, also Raven could you find some way to play into all of this a meeting between Za'harr and your character {I forgot his name, sorry about that} and possibly find a way for Revon to join him to the island so that they can meet and Gungir can see an old ally again? Just wondering man)) ((It's a celebration that takes place after the seasonal storms that wrack the Isles on a yearly basis. Since the storms can rage for days or weeks they prevent oceanic travel to the Isles during that time, the oceans around which are normally rather perilous. It is also a time the Mur celebrate their creationist mythos during which time they feast, sing/tell their stories, and typically mate or when Mur children are born [I don't know which] if their Calling doesn't prevent them from doing so. I wish to point out, and mainly to Arkena, despite the very obvious nods to polynesian and maritime settler cultures the general level of culture within Mur society as well as their capability to rationalise are high. I may not have expressly stated this yet but because the Mur have a natural layer of water repelling oil that coats their bodies black powder/matchlock/muzzle loading rifles are too dangerous for them to use without potentially igniting. I will adopt rifles and more technological aspects when appropriate and when breach loading technologies become available.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18851	Posted - 2015.05.08 03:16:00 - [177] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Behold, the capitol city of Dreadwinds. the island capitol Mournrise, and the trade city of Corpselight ((I like the first two more so than the third. I was kinda waiting for an Incan Temple city.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18854	Posted - 2015.05.08 04:17:00 - [178] - Quote Cryptic WarDevil wrote: (( Village of Parah-Su or 'Kings Blood' the village of all Royal Guard, The Harbinger, and the King and also Village of Savi-Ras or 'Water Cradle' nearly all Cathay-Raht live here[I must point out that even though I am saying where Cathay-Raht live, they live amongst each other even in Parah-Su, as they are no restrictions as to where one may live in my culture] and finally we haveTemple of Musa-Parahk 'Divine Power' [Im enjoying this ability to share pics, it really helps put into perspective what the lands look like.] Oh and guys help me here, remember the Krion? I was wondering what you think of these being a krion through its 3 stages This being a Youngling and This being a Titan [Btw a Titan is the final stage of the krion and is the biggest] and This being a Colossus, which is what Za'harr just brought back from the Hunt let me know what you think)) (( I think just looking at the picture you provided that thing would have **** your ** up and crit your boat hard.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18869	Posted - 2015.05.09 02:04:00 - [179] - Quote Spademan wrote: Cryptic WarDevil wrote: ((Absolutely perfect choices Raven! I think it would cool to have This One as a creature that is common around Cy-Rath water caves and out-coves on the outer sides of the island where there is very little population or perhaps a creature that attacks ships at random in colder months, what do ya think?)) (( There's always the classic Sea Serpent. Though now that I think about it I might take it... though certainly not that sized. Think more Shark size. I dunno, does it fit? )) ((NO YOU CANT USE THAT ONE! I may or may not have it saved away for a specific reason. OH and before I get back to posting the only reason I commented the way I did Cryptic is because of two reasons. Firstly that thing was freaking huge and very much no not likely to really be hurt by us in this era....secondly because that thing lives in the open oceans right..... one arm could smash a ship in half and in this age ships don't move very fast not do cannon swivel or angle particularly well.)) "MIN MAXING! MIN MAXING! I'M BETTER AT IT THAN YOU!" - Mobius Wyvern
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18896	Posted - 2015.05.11 00:30:00 - [180] - Quote In Skadia......... Errecist, the Heart of the Nation The sun rose over Errecist casting a warm glow across the iridescent surfaces of the augur like palaces and porous Coral tower bathing it in shades of rosy pink. Beneath the beauteous panorama that was the undecapalet spiral city one might of observed thousands of local Mur toiling in the streets below hurriedly laying out vast wreathes of riverside wild flowers, intricately woven bannerets, and local delicacies of freshly cooked Phrsam still steaming in the shells. The city had come alive over night as the braziers and carefully preserved membranes of the bio-luminescent lant-rays had been stoked until the small hours of the morning to preserve enough light for the Mur to complete their preparations. It was a miracle that all had been completed in time as many had thought the massive canopies, draped from the lower aperture of the Coral Tower, could have been successful positioned in the dark. However it was thanks to the brave few Mur who'd clambered up, unassisted, the long rope ways extending between the levels of the city to unfurl and distribute the massive fabrics. Anyone outside the city would have been forgiven for mistaking Errecist for some other Skadii township, it's tall towers and coral petals now interwoven with vast swathes of red fabrics, dampened by the humid air that caused small droplets to rain down in a gentle warm drizzle , to shelter the Skadi and their foreign guests from a high sun. Drums beat a swift measure in the wards below that melded with the cadences of a thousand other instruments to produce a mirthful tune. Mur danced in the streets, plied their trades, swam freely in the lake where hundred darted too and fro, leaping the lake surface to somersault in the air. The foreign envoys were roused early that morning and given adequate time to prepare themselves before the Mur had them assemble out on the courtyard of their ward in a militaristic fashion series ranks of uniform scale-armoured warriors of the Murguard, their axes heads against the sable stone works and heads bowed in a landborn fashion. Today both Adelya and Sephrena presented themselves before their charges, the former clothed as it were in the fashion of her warriors bearing proudly the bronze pin gifted to her by Aeschild, while Sephrena had chosen to wear a summer Maera of silver fabric in a plunging V-neck. "My Lords and Ladies, Queens and Kings, honoured guests and first of your kind in these lands we of the Rivers and the Oceans welcome you." Sephrena announced in a confident tone, observing the various landborn customs. "You no doubt desire consult with Lady Shuri'den'shalvys and today you have not wait o'er long for she has called to us to bring you before her. We leave at your leisure." The air was warm as the procession descend from their place in the Upper Wards towards the sole span of bridge that linked the Tower to the city proper and though few enough ripples showed on the lake below a slight gust provided a pleasant air flow to the reveller under the canopies that slanted the Mur-made drizzle. Adelya led their way while Sephrena stayed with the party answering questions directed at her and directing their attentions to festival goings on pointing playing out set on a simple lute to the time of the rapidly sounding drums. They crossed the marbled bridge in silence, passing beneath the tapering coral leaves, though whether this was simple awe or impatience the young Skadii woman could neither tell not cared to guess at. All she knew was that the closer they got to the porous surface the louder a certain sound seemed be become. At first it was as if there was a slight buzzing in the back of her mind, but as they neared it resolved itself into something more like a lyrical humming that filled her ears and left her mind bereft of lasting thoughts. She barely noticed when the guardians of the Coral Tower stepped aside to allow them all passage though a great round portal inlaid with sliver spirals and motifs of the Goddess Kalya as she stepped down from heaven to form the oceans, nor did she noticed how the grand portal was close behind them all leaving them in darkness. All she could focus upon was the sound as before their very eyes the grotto like antechamber of the Tower came to life before their eyes. "That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die."

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18897	Posted - 2015.05.11 01:42:00 - [181] - Quote ((For reference her are some Sy'thal Island creatures. Skaum - Dangerous carnivores that dwell in the riverways and on the shores. Bash'ui Shorecat - These are rather docile creatures that do not harm Mur unless threatened. Kresh - That Mur eat these. Correct protocol is to tap the shell of the Kresh to stun it before the creature is sucked out of it's carapace. Tastes extremely delicious steamed. Sy'thal Vergefiend - Usually spawn in broods, they wash up on shore during particularly high swells, the largest have threaten port towns but always stayed clear. Varrel - Farmed by the Mur for various natural resources. Phrsam - Beasts of burden prized for their meat, especially good when steamed, and for their carapace.)) "That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18945	Posted - 2015.05.12 00:47:00 - [182] - Quote In Skadia......... The Coral Tower For the briefest of moments the procession was plunged into darkness as the sole light from the outside world was cut off by the heavy wooden doors of the tower leaving them to fumble around in dim halflight on the porous floors. Rather thank fumble around in the shadows the older warrior, Adelya, warned to guests to cease their movements where possible and simple remain calm lest them harm themselves inadvertently, urging them all to be patient. Moment passed in the darkness in what seemed like the better part of an hour, though in reality was no more than several short minutes, and though the air was cool and the breeze slight it was an eerie spectacle as ones eyes adjusted to the tower's grotto antechamber. In those moments Sephrena's only solace was the particularly reining cadence that seemed to emanate from deeper within the tower which had a calming effect upon her. As the antechamber began to take on a more defined shape the Sephrena and the foreign envoys became more acutely aware that it was not their eyes that were adjusting to the darkness but instead the natural features of the grotto itself that were becoming more luminescent. She known Adelya for many years and the woman had only sparingly spoken of the inner workings of the Coral Tower, most often while drunk and in need of a shoulder back the barracks, however her descriptions did not this place justice. The Antechamber was a natural wonder carven deep into the un-pigmented coral structure of the tower where it had taken upon itself a life. The procession stood on a raised platform before which extended a vast network of crystal clear pools through which cut a narrow series of branching pathways leading deeper into the tower's cavernous depths. Light seemed to filter in from unseen openings above reflecting off the glassy waters casting an ethereal blue glow over the cavern walls. Twisting stalks of various bio-luminescent oceanic plants, that had adapted for the unique conditions of the tower, suffused their air with warm pinks and greens trailing fronds that seemed to sway too and fro as if on some tide to snatch as motes of warm light. The pools too were alive as the thin forms of lant-rays skated across their surfaces taking flight to form schools leaving phosphorescent yellow trails in their wake as they flitted about the caverns, while other small crustaceans skittered about the rocks, and the long coiled bodies of older, more primal things lazily swam in endless circles at the deepest reaches of the pools just out of sight. Though the chamber remained devoid of sunlight they did no lack for form of natural light. "......Tis...." was all the young woman could manage before the party was ushered onwards by a towering Skadii male who introduced himself as Dh'maht. What struck Sephrena as odd was that the membranous folds between his and Adelya's fin like protrusions glowed in a similar fashion to the lant-rays. It was beautiful. Dh'maht led them from the antechamber, to an ascending helical stair case cast from yet again the coral itself cut into delicate hand rails that led up into a second enormous grotto unlike the one before it. Here it was clear the Mur had shape the structure itself. Two islands dominated the room, separated by a straight on water through which footholds protruded, the smaller on which they had emerged was ringed with glowing coral formations and tall reaching sea weeds that provided a low screen before them through which the could catch a brief glimpse of the larger island. Ringed by shallow pools, radiant growths, and ten augur like shells pulled from the depths of the Sy'thal oceans Shuri'den'shalvys sat upon an exquisite throne of pink coral which cast thick veins into the porous ground beneath it, disappearing into the straights and running up the walls to the apex of the ceiling. Amongst the Mur Shuri'den'shalvys was a beauty beyond compare and it was clear in her presence that this fact was not lost on the land-born races either. Unlike the Mur her guests would have likely seen before her skin was cast in rosy shades of pink alternating from dark to light in mottled splotches of colour over a full bust, narrow waist, and wide hips which seemed to echo the Mur body shape albiet in a more refined manner. Her features were delicate and well proportioned upon her oval face which gracefully tapered towards her chin, above which full lips and a gently sloping nose rested before iridescent eyes which seemed to change in shades of blue as she blinked, revealing the same obsidian pair of second eyelids as her kin. Straight ashen hair tumbled down from the crown of her head, on which rested a circlet inset with a gem that bore both the hallmarks of topaz and amethyst, to the waist of her nude form which seemed to recline back into the chair with a modesty that suggested she was aware of land-born customs. One arm rested upon her lap limply, while the other was extended over the edge of the throne dripping rivulets of dark blood where the scaled head of a massive coiled form rested in a docile fashion, it's mouth slightly agape as a long serpentine tongue extended from amidst great curved teeth to lap up the lifeblood. Upon spying them through the seaweed veil the Mur Matriarch drew her arm across the creatures tongue removing the last vestiges of crimson and with a gesture sent the enormous thing slinking back into the straights around the edge of the chambers exhorting a single low moaning growl. She turned towards them, beckoning them too her with a kind smile, gesturing for them to cross the straights. ((See top left of first picture)) "That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18958	Posted - 2015.05.12 02:54:00 - [183] - Quote ((RESERVED...... Boy Raven you are a suspicious one aren't you. You can't just trust an enigmatic leader of a people you know little about right off the bat? )) "That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 18991	Posted - 2015.05.13 01:58:00 - [184] - Quote Revon wrote: "It is understandable, and as it is forgiven..." Revon stopped and offered a simple hiss towards his kin. "I'd expect our fear is too. I find it that the oddness of this situation scared us more than your Tsh'ehlu, for it would often signal a ambush of sorts. I am glad this is not the case. I presume you have heard little about the Paric, and the Kami? Should you wish to know more, I will be overjoyed to repay you for the chance to visit a place as beautiful as this both before, and after my death." Revon bowed in a show of respect. In Skadia....... The Coral Tower Taking the opportunity to inspect them more closely she approached the assembled party hopping across the coral protrusions connecting to the two islands with a weightlessness and pressed through the screen of sea weed to stand before them. She surprised those in attendance, more so the Mur amongst the company, by taking Revon's hand in hers and raising him from his bow to gentle press her nose against his so that their breath intermingled. "It is forgiven, it were not my intention to cause you undue concern Parian Lord though I am glad I could have introduced you to him. Be at ease here for the festival has only just begun and we have much to discuss and learn of each other." +åschild wrote: +åschild briefly noticed the look of reverence that appeared across Sephrana's face. It seemed unusual that the woman was so awestruck by the sight of her own leader. Her thoughts were soon interrupted by Krion's warning, to which she simply responded: "I doubt there is any cause for alarm." She motioned for her guard to keep their weapons sheathed. Normally they would be equipped with firearms, but the Queen requested swords due to the danger that gunpowder presents to the Mur. She had grown far fonder of the people than she expected she would. She soon learned why Krion had given the warning he did through the exchange between Revon and Shuri'den'shalvys, Revon was clearly on edge after seeing Shuri'den'shalvys' pet and, despite the valuable lessons she learned from him, Revon had always seemed slightly paranoid in her eyes. Standing with Sir Torhsteg to her left and Krion to her right, +åschild offered a bow once Revon had finished. "You have my deepest gratitude for your invitation into your lands. The journey has been most pleasant alongside Capitan Adelya and I look forward to learning more about your people." She released the Parians hand and withdrew in and even handed fashion when a human woman of uncommon bearing, whom she recognised as the Queen, and a Parian presented themselves before her with polite bow to which which Shuri'den responded to with a raised her chin to them both. She eyed the Queen up and down, scented the air, separating the nature smells, observing the woman's stance and orientation, and eventually offered a warm congratulatory smile. "+åschild, Queen of the Land-born, you are as Adelya says. Fair as the dawn and possessed of M'kke's own authority, a woman beyond peerage. I have a fondness in my heart for your people and should hope we can be friends." She took the Queens arm as she had Revon's and pressed her fore head and nose gentle against the queen's long enough to have exchanged breaths and offered her a gentle brush of her lips against +åschild's left cheek, a gesture she repeated with Krion though on the right cheek. "Be you welcomed here in our Isles as were our Parian friends now and forever more, and may you and your Man-mate have many long and happy years together till sea swallows all." "That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19007	Posted - 2015.05.13 22:51:00 - [185] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: A small yet still visible smile crossed Gray's face at the Mur last comment. He continued to hold an otherwise near emotional appearance. Himself and his two guards armed with new weapons recently released to the Tal-Man army. Specialized gloves that cover the hand in metal scales allowing them to grab sword blades with out much pain to themselves. They lacked the usual complement of rifles as they feared to cause any harm to the Mur. Gray slowly raised his closed fist up to the left side of his chest with a quiet thud and gave a slight bow followed by his two guards. Quietly Gray began to speak. "It is an honor to attend your festival. First I would like to complement your beautiful architecture motoning around him to the lights around him and, I look forward to learning more about your culture. I have a gift to present to you at a later time. In Skadia.......... The Coral Tower As Gray spoke Shuri'den turned to him craning her neck upwards in both the gesture of respect and also to appreciate the Giant's great height with a thoughtful look of admiration. She deftly tucked a silvery strand of hair behind on of her tapered ears letting a single sharp exhalation of breath escape her lips which rapidly turned to steam before dispersing quickly. "It is an honour to meet you to Kin'Kre, Giant in my people's tongue, you are most welcome here in these lands." She said addressing him awkwardly , trying as gracefully as possible to stand at her full height and taking one of the giant armoured gauntlets in her hands. " I thank your for the compliment though I hope that is not all you find beautiful in Skadia...... if you would Kin'Kre....take a knee. I fear my statue too diminutive to look you in the eyes." "That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19008	Posted - 2015.05.13 23:38:00 - [186] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((Nope, you got extremely close the first time and fell off this time. While the Paric are reptilian, they are closely related to the Osmar in body structure, only differing due to lighter frames, and more flexible bodies. The Kami and their ancestors, the A'Kami, are a huge contrast. They are scaled, for the most part, most grow hair, but it rarely takes any colour other than silver, they have naturally sharp teeth, gills, webbed feet and hands, and finally a tail used for propulsion in water. They also are hatched from eggs that must be kept in warm freshwater until hatching. I am still waiting for a chance to explain them further and their history.)) ((By and by if you don't already know the touching of noses is derived from the Maori Hongi greeting which is where two friends greet one another by pressing their foreheads together, gently touching noses, exchanging 'breath of life' with the significance that a foreigner that goes through this is accepted as one of the people of the land.)) "That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19013	Posted - 2015.05.14 04:46:00 - [187] - Quote Vash Warren wrote: "Grey, is my name, of the Tal-Man Nation, from the city of Kiev." He stated in a plain and simple voice still kneeling. "And I would be happy to receive your name in return." A hint of intrigue in his voice. "I will make sure the gift is off loaded later. And to your final answer I am sure that some one would volunteer for your drawings if you could return the favor." He gave a slight nod with his head before he began to stand up again. "I have the joy to be Shuri'den of Shalvys, the ancestral home of the Mur, and I shall be pleased to have some artists prepare themselves for a sitting. If two amongst your party, a male, and female would be so kind we can have them illustrate several copies of the drawings." She however withdrew for a moment to tend to the two Mur representatives of the party following the protocol pressing her forehead against Adelya's to theirs so that their noses touched before embracing her in a warm gesture with a gentle whisper of 'welcome home.' Sephrena too completed the gesture however was not wholly prepared and was visibly shaking with excitement as they exchanged breaths, and a similar embrace. "Welcome child. I should like us to be friends as well. Adelya speaks very fondly of you." With that said and done the formalities of their greetings were completed and Shuri'den'shalvys bade them all down to a lower hall where a spaced between the naturally formed rock pools where a great open hearth had been prepared for the coming of the evening . It had been laid with a foundation of sable coloured sand and fragments of shells upon which rested smooth rounded peoples inset with veins of calcite that would glow a cherry red when lit. Many Mur laboured in the room laying out trays had been of traditionally steamed Phrsam legs, unshelled Kresh, and fillets of oceanic fishes seasoned with lemon and ground peppercorn alonside trays piled high with leeks, roasted riverside mushrooms, sweet potato, squash, and sea prunes. She took a seat on the floor on one side of the rectangular hearth ignoring the glances of reverence from the servers and beckoned for the others to join her though she tactfully refrained from extending the offer to the honour guards lest they continue to mistrust her. "Here we may sit and speak of the matters at hand. While I have immensely enjoyed your company an accord was struck when last our nations gathered to discuss the state of land-born affairs on neutral territory, particularly the hostilities between the Tal-Man and the Blood Raiders of the east. Sadly they did not deign to respond to our envoys. What is the general state of affairs between your nations?" "That is not dead which can eternal lie, And with strange aeons even death may die."
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19029	Posted - 2015.05.15 01:34:00 - [188] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((True completely forgot about the Angelis Haed, Animaya)) ((I thought they were a part of the Parian territory? I mean you control them all and they all got the invite when we all got together and talked about the Blood Raiders, including the Blood Raiders. Btw I don't know anything about the Angellis.... the only factions you don't a run down of in recent memory are the Parians.... I keep forgetting who is who. )) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19033	Posted - 2015.05.15 02:03:00 - [189] - Quote (( Eh if these people haven't shown up it's their controllers problems...... oh..... both factions are you.....)) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19034	Posted - 2015.05.15 02:19:00 - [190] - Quote sir RAVEN WING wrote: ((I made a post with Animaya introducing herself on page 117)) ((Why is she not here then?)) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19034	Posted - 2015.05.15 02:26:00 - [191] - Quote Jonny D Buelle wrote: ((Is it too late for me to join?)) ((Nope create your peoples using the templates from previous pages. Oh and by the way Arkena banned himself from the forum so "Steam and Country" won't be joining us yet. E.G- Country Name: Skadia Capital: Erricist Population: Minimal (Upgrading Slowly to Moderate due to RavenGÇÖs prosperity roll) Borders: Largest Island Nation attached to an Archipelago Cultural Focus: Sailors and Scavengers Religious Focus: Pantheonic covenant with emphasis on Goddess of Fertility and Prosperity Kalya Current System of Governance: Autocratic Minocracy Cultural Strengths: Production Cultural Weaknesses: Meek Population Capital Terrain: Lakeside Provincial Terrain Strengths: Naval (Pending two more Strengths) Terrain Weaknesses: Tundra, Desert, Volcanic Regions (Arid Regions) Country Terrain Strengths: Resource Rich Country Terrain Weaknesses: Isolated Resource Strengths: Textile Development Resource Weaknesses: Dependency on Wood )) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19036	Posted - 2015.05.15 02:58:00 - [192] - Quote Jonny D Buelle wrote: sir RAVEN WING wrote: Jonny D Buelle wrote: ((Is there a map of unclaimed territories or can I slap a peninsula onto the current map?)) ((Much of the world is unclaimed.)) ((Kk, btw I was looking at the map that was posted a couple pages back, I'm assuming those black parts are unclaimed islands, if I claim it do I get the whole Island or just a peice? Sorry if I'm being annoying, just don't want to f*ck things up)) (( YA FUKED UPE JUHHNY!)) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19036	Posted - 2015.05.15 03:56:00 - [193] - Quote Jonny D Buelle wrote: Country Name: Artuga Capital: Mihal Population: Small Borders: Small Volcanic Island to the south of the mainland. Cultural Focus: Sailing and War Religious Focus: None as Artugians are Deists. Current System of Governace: Autocracy. Line of succession is determined by 'Natural Selection' (keep what you kill) Cultural Strengths: Naval Combat Cultural Weaknesses: Aerial Combat Capital Terrain: Coastal Terrain Strengths: Naval, Forests, Volcanic Terrain Weaknesses: Tundra, Desert, Plains (anywhere far from the sea really) Country Terrain Strengths: Rich in resources Country Terrain Weaknesses: Isolated Resource Strengths: Ship Devlopment Resource Weaknesses: Dependency on Wood Motto: "Strong winds bring good fortune." Current Leader: Bloody Jon ((Is this okay or do I need to change some things?)) (( I feel like I was just mugged. you left me at least enough money to use the pay phone right?)) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19037	Posted - 2015.05.15 04:47:00 - [194] - Quote Jonny D Buelle wrote: ((Just realized I left stuff over when I copy pasted template lol, will edit to give you some change for a cab plus a pie)) Edit: Should also note that Artugians are a bit Barbaric in some sense. Such as they don't like using cutlery, can take as many husbands and wives as they want, challenge for leaderships are done in the nude with no weapons, women hold as much sway in politics and war as men, and they will take slaves when raiding)) ((None of my people wear clothes.......ever. They'll get on just fine.)) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19038	Posted - 2015.05.15 04:59:00 - [195] - Quote Jonny D Buelle wrote: True Adamance wrote: Jonny D Buelle wrote: ((Just realized I left stuff over when I copy pasted template lol, will edit to give you some change for a cab plus a pie)) Edit: Should also note that Artugians are a bit Barbaric in some sense. Such as they don't like using cutlery, can take as many husbands and wives as they want, challenge for leaderships are done in the nude with no weapons, women hold as much sway in politics and war as men, and they will take slaves when raiding)) ((None of my people wear clothes.......ever. They'll get on just fine.)) ((This calls for an orgy on at the grand hall in Mihal!)) ((Firstly Raven we need an OOC thread up in this place. Secondly Johnny the skin of a Mur is covered in a natural oil.....)) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19041	Posted - 2015.05.15 05:55:00 - [196] - Quote Jonny D Buelle wrote: True Adamance wrote: Jonny D Buelle wrote: True Adamance wrote: Jonny D Buelle wrote: ((Just realized I left stuff over when I copy pasted template lol, will edit to give you some change for a cab plus a pie)) Edit: Should also note that Artugians are a bit Barbaric in some sense. Such as they don't like using cutlery, can take as many husbands and wives as they want, challenge for leaderships are done in the nude with no weapons, women hold as much sway in politics and war as men, and they will take slaves when raiding)) ((None of my people wear clothes.......ever. They'll get on just fine.)) ((This calls for an orgy on at the grand hall in Mihal!)) ((Firstly Raven we need an OOC thread up in this place. Secondly Johnny the skin of a Mur is covered in a natural oil.....)) ((So we won't need lube then will we)) ((Edit: I'm not a good artist so I won't even try to drawn an Artugian but I will describe them. Average height is 5' 10", they have dark gray skin, blood red hair, and green eyes. Their nails are more like claws which they use as tools. It is disrespectful (and dishonorable) in their culture to bloody their claws with Artugian blood so they tend to strike with their palms and elbows when fighting for leadership. Because of the lack of food on their island most Artugians are lean.)) ((I'm tired but will try again later..... How is this for an awkward first attempt "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.05.22 04:09:00 - [197] - Quote ((RESERVED and will be deleted. In the OOC thread can you show which Island you chose Johnny. If its the one south of my lands I'll also have discovered your shores in this post as well.)) "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.05.25 03:29:00 - [198] - Quote On the Southern Sea.......in sight of Land Ma'tyn breathed a deep sigh of relief. Having followed the currents of the Southern Oceans for many weeks his convoy of Thalasse had been significantly drained of their carefully preserved food stuffs to such a degree that he had been kept aware through the long evenings in fear for the success of the fleet. However at the mere sight of the dense tropical jungles the Mur had leapt and cheered with an undisguised joy. As much as they loved the scent of the salt spray, the rolling of great waves form the deck of a vessel, and the cool and abrasive feeling of the open oceans as they swum its depths many still were sick for the familiar sights of home. From their current bearing Ma'tyn was aware that they must have struck for the South Eastern tip of what was a Grand Isle, it's coastline extending into the West beyond the ability of his eyes to discern its form, and a pleasantly humid and verdant at that. They had sent out their fastest swimmer from the three vessels, some twelve Mur in total all capable of mapping the coastal formations, reefs, and sand bars, each instructed to make their way along the coasts for a suitable harbour. Within the hours they returned and convened to discuss the merits of the potential harbours. One amongst them was chosen, as located by a pathfinder Sia'tri, and named by Ma'tyn Sia'tri's Anchorage. In the end it was decided that they would seek harbour in a wide cove through which the Mur were forced to navigate a narrow formation of thick roots and mangroves before passing into a small cove, lined on one side by sheer cliffs and waterfalls while the other presented the vista of a small inland river meeting the open ocean tangled over by thick vines and roots. Here the Mur saw great intertwined trees, some reaching at their upper limits 90m talls, which defied belief , with wide branches, who sheltered the eastern side of the cove, and twisted trunks. Rather than have the Mur explore the surrounding jungles any further Ma'tyn organised his people to form offerings of silks and bronze trinkets to offer to the Passions M'kke and Vinetir, to celebrate and give thanks for having achieved their goals. After which the Mur returned to the large sea going vessels to rest before expeditions could begin. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.05.29 00:22:00 - [199] - Quote In Skadia......... The Coral Tower Shuri'den of Shalvys-That-Was sat in contemplative silence as she considered the worlds of the Tal-Man Diplomat Grey. Having completed the initial purpose of the Summit having observed the protocols for greeting the foreign leaders as well as having discussed the general mood of the Landborn nations the leaders had sat down to meal, taking from the assorted dishes their personal favourites, making light conversation with one another for several long hours. Eventually the conversation turned to matters of trade, which Shuri'den'shalvys was only too happy to speak at great length on, re-negotiating with the Osmarii a slightly cheaper port fee to dock merchant ships in harbour, and had the current crisis in the Tal-Man textile market explained to her by Grey. It seemed that the enormous inflow of below market value fabrics and textiles from the Weavers of Isles had caused quite and uproar amongst their foreign counterparts. Though momentarily stumped by the foreigners reticence to accept higher quality fabrics at a cheaper price the Mur leader promised to speak with the Weavers in the capitol and her Harbour Masters. She noticed mid meal that the platter of steamed Kresh, the barbed tentacles that comprised their mouths still squirming and writhing, had not been touched by the foreigners despite the rich, mouthwatering smell they gave off. Mid explanation of the cultural meaning of Whorl with the Angellian envoy she reached out to the plate. "This one makes her apologies to you Animaya. But by their scent these Kresh are certain to be delightful." She said grasping one of the wriggling ocean creatures by the tail. With a flick of her delicate wrist she cracked the shell against the floor stunning it before raising it over her head sucking the limp creature out of its shell. The meat of the Kresh itself was incredibly tender and been steamed with a drizzling of lemon juice. She imagined that the flavour would be rather popular with the Land-born though that consistency, as viscid as it was, coupled with the slight crunching as chitinous barbs were ground to dust by the teeth and the wriggling of the creature would be enough to put some of them off the meal. "Where was I Animaya?....... Social aesthetics of Whorl? Indeed......" She launched back into the conversation with the woman for the better part of an hour exchanging questions and explanations. Later with the meal concluded and official discussions completed the leaders sat back in quiet thought. Their only disturbance the slight clicking of steel scale against scale as Adelya gently laid two instruments at the head of the table, one a vaguely resembling a lute, while the other was a flute carved from a delicate deepsea shell. Sephrena, let out a slight squeak of both apprehension and excitement when she saw the lute, entering a panicked state when Shuri'den of Shalvys-That-Was took a position behind the flute beckoning for her to take her place at her side. She did so meekly. Despite her hands shaking she adjusted the strings with skill, thrumming them quietly until they produced a sound she was satisfied with. Once she had completed her task she nodded to the older woman. "Guests of the Murfolk." She announced to those assembled, sounding the flute, producing a long mournful note. "Our celebrations during this Festival are not just to offer thanks to the Whorl or to celebrate that bonds that tie us together. They are also to remember who we are, who we were, and That-Which-Was." She produced another mournful series of notes. Sephrena next to her looked on with a rapt expression. "We do not share this part of our celebrations with the Land-born. So we beg you please listen, the heart of the Murfolk opens for you." As the assembled fell quiet there extended a long emotive gap before Shuri'den'shalvys broke the silence, evocative notes of the flute drawn out as Sephrena began to sing, softly at first, but with a growing confidence. Eventually Sephrena joined in with her lute producing deep baroque timbre that produced a visible reaction in the Mur. She blushed, rather embarrassed by the warm sensation the notes produced in her, musical performance was her Passion and not something she should be ashamed of however before her sat a dozen foreigners and their guards whom she feared would mistake the nature of her arousal. The lute was the finest instrument she had ever seen. Playing it was an honour. They took turns singing the verses of the narrative, it becoming immediately apparent that Sephrena was a but a skilled novice in the company of a songstress, speaking of the first collective thoughts of the Mur. How the Gods formed from the shapeless void first the oceans, the winds, the depths, and the storms and where they did not create the lands formed. how they Gods were lonely in their creation and brought the Folk into the world creating for them a homeland explaining where they did not create other Folk formed. The central verses sung of their homeland Shalvys, a lost island nation that once housed all Mur as one people with as single purpose, and of how their people sailed all oceans without fear. Of how Goddess Kalya lavished her gifts and bounties upon them earning them the jealous ire of the Vinnetir, the Storm God, and how his in his wrath he cast them from their home land being himself cast down to become one with his storms. Sephrena was weeping by this point but controlled her voice admirably, even Shuri'den seemed to be having difficulty maintaining her serene expression. The final verse of the song centred around the arrival of the Mur in the Sy'Thal Isles having made a long and arduous journey across the endless storming waters to land on the Island called Skadia. They finished the performance on a hopeful note, the flute piquing at a rapid tempo, all trace of the sorrow gone from its sound. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.05.29 00:46:00 - [200] - Quote In Skadia........the Coral Tower Sephrena wiped a thin layer of perspiration from her forehead. The ballad was a particularly complex one and she had not been prepared to sing it in the presence of others for many years, however she felt a powerful sense of achievement having done so to the best of her abilities. She remained seated for a few minutes, breathing heavily, until she regained her composure, cursing herself internally that she was not a better singer, surprising herself by vowing to devote herself to the craft in the name of the Female Passion, M'kke. She split her gaze between the two older Mur, both still clearly affected by the music as she was, though while Adelya seemed to be wholly comfortable with her physical state Shuri'den'shalvys seemed for the first time to be ashamed by her nakedness. A few moments later her body reverted to its natural state at which point she bowed to the assembled guests and quickly hurried off stage to find her seat next to Adelya who was doing a particularly poor job of stifling her amusement. "With that the Festival passes for another year." Shuri'den'Shalvys announced, rising and offering the crowd a bow. " There will be several days more celebrations in the cities of our people. It is late however and I do not wish to keep you all. I bid you retire to your accommodations and mayhap we shall greet each other anew tomorrow or part as friends. For Animaya I will see to it that you might visit the libraries of my people and make transcripts from the texts of your choosing. Shall I expect you and your model tomorrow morning for a sitting Ambassador Grey? " "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.05.29 02:20:00 - [201] - Quote On the Southern Grand Isle....... some miles from Sia'tri's Anchorage Ma'tyn cursed irritably as another barbed vine tore at the widely flaring fins on his forearms washing over him in waves of pain. Having regrouped his men upon the beaches the morning following their arrival they had split into three parties, two to venture out into the steaming jungles, and the largest by far comprised of carpenters, cartographers, and deckhands to establish a formal camp site. Having had a successful morning of fishing in the cove his 40 man band had provisioned themselves for several days of travel hoping to discover the source of the inland streams as well as any notable landmarks that would allow them to get their bearings. However the jungles were thick and densely populated with all manner of avian, lizard, and primarily insect life the Mur had not seen in their time. They had not been more than six hours from the cove when the Pathfinder, and naturalist, Siatri called for them to halt amongst their party called for the company to halt in a glade where the river forked. His assessment of the landscape ahead was that it would be rough going for some time until the came upon the massive intertwined tree columns that they had seen from the shore and that they make camp before wearing themselves out. Hours later after having established a small ring of tents around a roaring central fire Ma'tyn finally felt a measure of comfort. He was a Mur that was tied to the oceans not just by choice but due to the pronounced and over developed fins he bore that made trekking through the narrow confines of the jungle thickets a nightmare. His only solace was that this land was humid enough that the Mur could freely thrive in its environment and rich in the way of lumber and ocean resources. The company dined of fish caught that very morning cooking them over the open fire without reservation or concern for what might have lain beyond the light of their campfires and drinking deeply of a store of Kami Blood brought from their homeland to celebrate the discovery of a new land. It was such that Ma'tyn excused himself from the celebrations to take a breather and relieve himself out of sight of the fires...... Moments later the jungle was alive with a cacophonous noise, a predatory screeching mingled with the agonised screams of the Fleet Captain. Shocked out of their revelry the Mur rushed to the source of the noise in time to see a pair of Mur legs being dragged off into the thickets in a trail of blood. (( Was going to do 3 checks to determine what happened this post. Poor Ma'tyn rolled a 1 for his 'Enviromental Result'.) The rest of the evening was a dismal affair, the Mur retreating to the river banks rather than their tents and smothering the great central fire and placing a watch of axe armed soldiers to protect the camp by the second in command's, Siatri's, order. Their sleep was fitful at best, as the jungle came to life around them. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.02 05:04:00 - [202] - Quote The Southern Continent........ The Coastal Passage West of Sia'tri's Anchorage With Ma'tyn dead Sia'tri had assumed command of the expedition. His first order of business had been to have the company fall back to the cove where they had made landfall hoping to learn more about the the continent itself before mounting another attempt towards the centre of what he had determined was the South Eastern Spur. Of the fifty he had taken with him into the jungles four had died of some unknown illness, their wounds festering and becoming infected with the expeditions healers surgeons being unable to do anything for them but minimise their pain. The other expedition had apparently made greater headway south establishing another small settlement some hundred miles down the coast from which they were caching supplies and preparing to bring one of the Thalassae vessels to support. Having denied their request, unwilling to separate the massive seafaring vessels he ordered the manufacture of two smaller clippers so that supplies and messengers could aid their efforts. Instead Sia'tri and his company and replenished their supplies and struck West along the coastline for several days making much swifter passage through the oceans that over land eventually arriving at what appeared to be a head land in a great curvature of the coastline. Here they found what the pathfinders suspected might have been a crude settlement long abandoned , Sia'tri strongly suspected this may well have been an indigenous people, however the matter was soon dismissed as no sign or remains of the people could be found. However the further West the Mur progressed the greater the numbers of abandoned settlements they began to discover, and the more massive trees in greater numbers became visible form the shore lines. It was such that some four days after their expedition had begun, and several midnight claims that great sailing ships had been spied along the coasts easily dismissed as mere exhaustion, that the Mur spotted the first of what they believed was the native people of the continent surreptitiously drying what appeared to be leathers in the ocean rock pools. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.02 23:12:00 - [203] - Quote On the High Northern Seas....... The Deck of the Maelstrom A scathing volley of gun fire erupted from the deck of the Osmarii Frigate raking the port side bulwark of the larger vessel as the screams of dying men and Mur mingled together drowned out only by the roar of cannon fire from the lower decks as teams exchanged ferocious barrages of thunderous canon fire. The simple moonlight raid had degenerated into a brutal melee across the decks of the scouting vessel, the Osmarii sailors rallying quickly around their captain to repel the privateer forces and establish disciplined gun lines which had hampered the initial assaults setting Mur alight and sending them tumbling into the dark waves below. The battle was turning, and not in favour of the Mur, eight of their raiders either lay dead across the deck of the foreigner's ship or had fallen out of sight into the oceans below Tamarri'sen skirted the the combat running a webbed palm over the bulwarks of the foreign vessel crouching low against it's reassuring weight barely able to disguise the fact she was poorly armed and completely unclothed. She was fuming, her normally sensuous features contorted by a black look. Man'tiel had ordered her to secure the Bowspirit of the Osmarii vessel. Ordered her! The damnable captain had the audacity to command a daughter of his God as if she were some common member of his crew or pleasure garden *****. But Vinnetir, she thought suppressing a shiver of excitement, the look of his face as he'd watched the first Osmarii fire their rifles point blank into his men had been a sight to behold, and though she loathed to admit it, quite fetching as if the Aspect were in his dark eyes. Where their Fleet Captain had gone was a mystery to the raiders including Tamarri'sen herself, their leader had stalked away from the combat in a fury, descending below decks and had not been see since. As the fighting descended into chaos she had taken to rallying the Mur herself promising in haste herself to whomsoever slew the accursed Osmarii Captain who had the nerve to raise his pistol and fire at the Storm Daughter. She smiled in a knowing fashion. Man'tiel would see the Captain captured before killed and she would have the right to claim the foreigner for her God. The male Parian had already been exhausted and disposed of, and the woman was only just beginning to heal. She and her adepts would need a replacement. A slight scraping of wood upon wood sounded to her right as an Osmarii marine clambered out from below deck via the cargo hold access, pushing aside the heavy grating, drawing his sword, and running a staggering raider through from behind. He turned to her charging in a blind rage. Rather than flee she rose to stand against him allowing him to see she was a woman. The marine hesitated a moment, confused, unsure. The moment was enough however as the priestess swinging the ceremonial hand axe, normally used to carve open a vessels bowspirit, catching the sailor in the neck with a solid crunch, who collapsed limply to the deck spurting arterial streaks of blood. Warmth blossomed in her stomach. Killing was a primal part of Vinnetir's Aspect, one she rarely if ever was allowed to pursue, yet one that evoked no less a physical reaction in her or brought her no less joy. Without thinking she ran two fingers across the humans wound before drawing a whorl across her left breast in a bloody patternas. Another concussive burst of cannon fire rocked the vessel, the Tal-Man Cannons from the lower cannon deck tearing great gouges out of the frigate. Tamarri'sen scrabbled forwards ignoring the dead man leaping onto the bowsprit, wrapping her legs around the lacquered wood, and allowing gravity to invert her so that she hung from the protrusion upside down facing the figure head. She noted with satisfaction that her adepts were already hacking at the figureheads chest, carving the rough shape of a heart out of the wood. She shooed them away and began to labour at the Bowspirit herself, chiselling the rough lump free from its position. Below her the dark oceans were alive with activity as Mur Drowners set about the fallen Osmarii dragging them screaming into the shadowy depths. Both Male Gods would be satisfied with their offerings today. Though only if the battle was won. She clambered back onto the deck, raising aloft the Bowspirit with a triumphant roar, noting with unashamed pride how the raiders rallied as they saw their enemies ship vanquished from underneath them. The Mur however were not the only ones who had noticed her, or how she had affected the Mur, an Osmarii Marine raising his rifle to take aim at her. Time seemed to freeze for her, blood pooled slowly across the decks, she could see what toll the human's rifles had taken on her people, a dozen lay with blank expressions across the deck, Osmarii dead too their armour torn and rent. For a moment she was sure she could hear the familiar sound from her childhood of Phrsam chitin scraping against itself. She closed her eyes, offering all that she was to the Storm God, cursing the Osmarii bitterly for ending her life. Screams. Lamentations. Human voices. She opened her eyes in time to glimpse a dozen heavily armoured figures launch themselves from the deck of the Maelstrom into the lines of riflemen. Their chitinous plating recognisably dull with bony protrusions formed into the plating shattering several rifles and pulping flesh of the men as the warriors hit the deck with bone crushing force. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.03 02:58:00 - [204] - Quote On the High Northern Seas....... The Deck of the Stricken Frigate Man'tiel and his warriors crashed into the deck of the Osmarii vessel with all the force of a cannonball, crashing through the disciplined ranks of the riflemen breaking limbs and denting breast plates as they did so, their armour only preserved by the thick silken padding wedged between the segments of each plate. Even so several of the plated warriors rose webs of cracks running through the heavy armour. "Hina, Goddess of Luck be praised." Man'tiel muttered picking himself up, checking his armour for damage, and forcing his way clear of the shattered stairwell he had crashed down through kicking free of the timbre his sabatons trailing a dark red streak of gore. The sudden attack had thrown the Osmarii line of rifles into disarray, despite their Captain's best attempts to rally, the lines scattered falling back towards the melee where Mur and sword armed warriors clashed or up onto the aft deck discharging their rifles in a panicked and disorderly fashion. Two plate armed warriors fell dead, their breastplates smoking and shattered by the close ranged fire of a half dozen muskets, however the others sprung into actions capitalising on the fleeing enemies crushing them painfully against the bulwarks as they swung their great weapons in wide arcs cleaving through the poorly armoured backs of the humans. The Fleet Captain himself led the vanguard separating himself from the other warriors attacking the remaining marines from behind. He has forgone his trusted axes instead choosing to arm himself with the massive Oarblade, Nan Sapwe, the Covenant had seen fit to bestow upon them. A weapon nearly six feet in length with a heavy curved blade forged from a strange iridescent green metal that hooked set into a moulded chitinous mount with a long haft. Each swing felled men in upon the deck as they tried to flee cleaving some in half and casting others into the murky ocean below. Where the blade could not reach we would lash out using the spines running along his arm to tear at the exposed flesh of the Osmarii leaving jagged wounds that bled furiously. Despite this he took several wounds as bullets deflected off of the armour plating, passing through the silk padding, and grazing the flesh beneath, or where daggers and longswords managed to slip between plates and steaming crimson blood began to stain the armour. Hastily loaded rifles crashed, peppering the warriors again with a desperate volley barely wounding a one of the Mur, until they were silenced driven over the edge of the ship by the raiders. Amidst the chaos Man'tiel felt alive. Combat was not his Passion but the thrill of carnage was real. With his men having forced the Osmarii formations apart the captain looked up to see the Osmarii Captain. He'd disarmed one of the armoured warriors and managed to slide his weapon through the gorget of the armour so its blade passed cleanly through the Mur's neck. Enraged he charged unconcerned as the human slipped into a defensive stance, both hands on the grid holding from the shoulder, blade flat and pointed at his foe, ready to parry. The first strike missed it's mark completely, Man'tiel staggering under the weight of the armour as cannon fire raked the small vessel again, blade passing over his foes equally surprised shoulder. The second was on target however, recovering swiftly, swinging Nan Sapwe in a wide arc. When brute strength proved ineffective he slipped into the long practised Waveform, sword held low, on an angle, his weight on the balls of his feet so that it could be shifted easily. The Osmarii deflected the blow with a practised motion and stepped forward within Man'tiel's guard thrusting the longsword at the visor in the same motion only narrowly missing his eyes. They exchanged a series of viscous blows dancing around in a storm of steel and chitin wounds inflicted on both sides. A reversed blow from Nan Sapwe had pulverised the Osmarii's arm causing it to hand limply two cuts pained Man'tiel greatly, one across his ribs the other over one eye, and bled profusely blinding him until he removed his helm. Despite himself he could not help but respect his foe and saluted with a mailed arm before exposing his throat. However when his opponent reciprocated the gesture with his functional arm he felt overwhelmed by a sickness using the great Oarblade to steady himself as the world began to spin. To kill this man for sport, for his Passion was a sickening concept. The Osmarii leapt forward in that moment as if sensing the end was near a final mortal thrust aimed at Man'tiel's throat. It suddenly occurred to him that were he to die the Raider's themselves would likely be excommunicated, condemned for their piracy, killed. Good men and women for his simple failure to protect them. The sense of sickness was gone in that moment, his body moving without him even thinking, forcing himself forward, past the outstretched longsword swinging Nan Sapwe in the same circular motion Waveform trained warriors to unthinkingly encompass into their movements. There was but a moments resistance, then nothing as the sword traced a crimson arc through the air. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.03 03:17:00 - [205] - Quote Meanwhile...... Tamarri'sen watched with a mix of horror and admiration as the Fleet Captain dispatched his foe, he Bowspirit clasped in both bloodied hands still raised overhead. He was the Aspect of Vinnetir itself made manifest in the flesh. His furore was as it was described in the passions, malevolent and primal in its very nature. Her breath caught a moment as the final blow was struck. The Osmarii Captain's neck a decapitated trunk, his head rolling across the deck. She barely noticed as he weakly fell to his knee, collapsing under his own weight. The battle was done, bitter though it had been, the Maelstrom had been victorious despite the sheer number of wounded and dead, and the Captain remained unclaimed. Her expression darkened once again, twisting in a mask of distaste. Striding across the stained decks blood pounding in her ears, as the last of the canon fire died away into nothing, and the few surviving Osmarii were throw overboard to the Drowners. "He was not MEANT TO DIE" She screamed, striking the wounded Captain across the face with the heavy wooden idol again and again, her colour rising. "He was to been claimed for the Storm One! HE WAS NOT TO DIE!" Man'tiel said nothing as the barrage of insults continued, berating him for his stupidity, cursing his very existence, and insinuating in Old Murrish that his mother had mated with a Skaum. A moment later she was pulled away from him by her two adepts, the Bowspirit taken from her grasp gleaming with his blood and looking like the finest offering she had ever conceived. "YOU WILL NOT TREAT ME LIKE THIS!" The bloodied Mur said nothing, instead running his tongue around the inside of his mouth as if checking the state of his teeth, instead choosing to spit a thick globule of blood and a pulverised fragment of a tooth onto the deck. As her rage calmed she grasped at the Bowspirit which was eventually handed back to her, and turned to leave. She would let Man'tiel have his victory for now and work her frustrations out on the Parian woman. She froze however when Man'tiel began to chuckle, first softly, then with much more vigour. He rose, staggered towards a newly established gangplank between the two ships, stopping only for the slightest of moments to whisper something to her. Before stumbling off unable to control himself. "Playtime is over for you *****." He hissed between his teeth. He obviously had heard and committed her earlier promise to memory. " My quarters. Tonight." "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.03 04:24:00 - [206] - Quote The Coasts of the Southern Continent............ Near the Mar'hal Hidden Village Sia'tri and two pathfinders rested just below the line hand buried into the grainy sands to prevent movement due to the tides and the waves above. Their observation of the strange inhabitants of the continent had yielded little in the twenty minutes they had spend submerged in sight of those few who seemed to be curing leathers or skins of some kind. The Pathfinders were poorly armed bearing little enough but short spears, designed more to skewer fish or see off unwanted ocean predators than for hand to hand combat, and none of the Mur bore the traditional scale of their warriors, instead clad in simple leather harness with a waterproofed leather pouch containing graphite and some textile papers. They seemed to be completely concealed beneath the waters until one of the smaller creatures in conversationwith an elder, an youth or pygmy, by Sia'tri's eyes pointed directly at them perhaps having spied the membranous folds of his fins which he noted had unfurled in the excitement of observing a new people. "Hina preserve me" he muttered, into the coastal waters. "and M'kke's own luck be with me. " Despite the urgent signalling of his two companions the Pathfinder surfaced. Rising out of the oceans so that only his eyes broken the surface, gauging the native's reactions, before rising up to his full height so that his chest rose above the waters. He allowed the rolling waves to push him into shore where stood before the Artugan's thrusting his spear into the tidal sands before advancing up the beach unarmed. He noticed behind them that neither of the other Finder's had surface, he could pick out their dark second pair of eyelids and flared fins both prepared to flee if he should be killed. The jungle sun was intense and it took several moments before his own fully retracted allowing him to look upon them with pale green eyes. To him they appeared to be vaguely reminiscent of the humanoids form the Northern continents with dark grey skin, unusually beautiful red hair, and nails that were significantly longer, shaped like cruel looking knives, and like his own people, and unlike the Northerners, shared the same cultural distaste for clothing though it appeared that their own attributes were completely external to the body unlike the polymorphic Mur. What now drew her attention was the skins the natives seemed to be curing. From beneath the waves he had not been able to identify the material. However it was now apparent that it was flayed skin. Mustering his courage he addressed them all, praying to Kalya for true bodily preservation from Ma'tyn's fate, starting with the lyrical Murrish language, shifting through other fractured examples of foreign languages. The message was the same every time. "Hail Land-walkers the Folk of the Oceans greets you in friendship. Do not fear me. I speak for the Lady of the Whorl." "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.03 12:04:00 - [207] - Quote The Coasts of the Southern Continent............ Near the Mar'hal Hidden Village Sia'tri remained quiet. There was little enough he owned that could be used to convince these natives that he meant them no harm or that he had something that would benefit them knowing so little of their culture. He rough smile crossed his features at the comedy of the situation, attempting to barter with a newly discovered people with nothing to offer them on an expedition he had inherited due to misfortune, he seemed to be fates fool. The woman's words seemed familiar. Her talk of 'Tall Ones' seemed oddly familiar but he discounted the thoughts that jumped into his mind as nothing but mere conjecture. Also the mention of the term Artuga seemed out of place in the sentence..... perhaps this was their name for this place. "You make strong case. I have nothing to me." He replied trying to modify the language that the longclaws seemed to understand raising his hands so that she could see his palms were empty. "We explored this land in the.... uh.... South.....did not expect to find you. Here and now." A thought suddenly occurred to him and he reached for the water proofed pouch at his chest with one arm, raising the other to show he meant no harm. With surprising dexterity he undid the ties, unfurling the sack in the sand to reveal the drawing graphite and the papyrus quickly glancing up at the native who had spoken to him. He began to draw using his experience as a pathfinder to trace the features of the woman and child. His sketch of a human subject was rough at best though he managed to capture the shape and general features of their faces in a portrait, the dusky grey tones of the native's skin, the manner by which the elder woman's claws curved slightly around the staff, but in his opinion by far it best captured the crimson hair. Some twenty minutes later he self consciously offered the Artugan the drawing rather concerned that his offering was too meager or perhaps to abstract and removed from their culture for them to appreciate. "I am sorry." He offered the woman. It was the best he could do. "For land-walker son and daughter." He pointed at the picture, and then the pair of Artugans. "I make this best as it can be. It is you. I draw you from my memories.... What I see of you. My word is true. I mean no harm." "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.03 23:26:00 - [208] - Quote The Coasts of the Southern Continent............ Near the Mar'hal Hidden Village Sia'tri breathed a sigh of relief. Somehow against all odds the Arutuga, or whatever name they went by, seemed to like the drawing passing it to the smaller person whom it was not apparent was merely a child rather than some stunted breed. As they turned to leave he jogged back to the spear still firmly embedded in the sand waving frantically to the two still submerged Mur who poked their heads out of the waves with concerned expressions. "You!" He shouted pointing at the faster swimmer. "Pal! Bring the others. Have them camp in the cove to the east. Shu'm and I shall accompany these people. Await us some time tomorrow." The two Mur hesitated but his excitement was infectious and Pal, the thin male whooped loudly, diving into the waves and rapidly disappearing into the depths. Shu'm on the other hand simply dove into the waves, using her powerful limbs and the waves to build up speed so she could launch herself out of the oceans covering some three meters to stand beside Sia'tri. Despite her efforts her expression bespoke a concern and she looked doubtful that the Pathfinder's excitement would hold firm. They followed the Artuga into the jungle keeping a respectable distance between themselves and the younglings their short spears tucked under their arms, their points facing the ground as they navigated the rough jungle terrain. "This is a bad idea Sia'tri." Shu'm muttered simply as they ducked under a series of low hanging vines. Furling her bright green fins against green-blue flesh. "In all likelihood yes." "Then why commit us to this foolishness." "Shu'm you have spawned have you not?." He asked deflecting the her question. "You are with us because they are whelped to adulthood and you are a Matron no more. Is this not so? "Aye. Two whelped to be masons and a third to the Passions." Her tone was proud, all crafts were widely respected amongst the Mur and by extension the crafter who practised them. To whelp two in one brood was quite the achievement and to have one accept a Passion in of itself was a wonderful thing. "You nurtured them well? Plucked at their fins when they did wrong. Whet them when they had the Dry Fevers." He grunted painfully as one of his fins caught against one of the trees unfurling it in a flash of orange, taking a moment to inspect the delicate membrane and tenderly tuck it carefully back against his forearm. "Aye. As a mother should." "That is why. Because I think they would like you and because it must be done." That quieted her protests as they followed the Long-claws through their jungle expectantly scanning the jungle for any sign of their destination. The Pathfinder jogged up to the fore of the line to the one the child had called Ria. He took a moment to appreciate their grey skin and fiery hair, comparing it to his own heavily scarred pale blue skin which continued to glisten as a result of natural oil coating. A moment later he addressed her, raising his chin in the most respectable manner be could muster. "Lady Longclaw...... where do we go? What is this land and who are your people?" "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.04 00:03:00 - [209] - Quote In Osmarium......... the Mur Embassies and Trade Houses It was a disaster. The worst Kal'm thought he had ever come across. From his window overlooking the Dockyard Skadii-an Trade Houses he could see spread out before him, writhing in a tangled mass of shells, tentacles, and broken wooden pallets was a tonne of freshly imported Kresh. While not initially popular amongst the Osmarii the canny diplomat may or may not have let slip at one of the noble gatherings that eating Kresh allowed the Mur to retain such a physically developed form. Amongst the vain nobility it had become somewhat of an overnight sensation amongst the Lords and Ladies of the court and orders had been placed backdating some months for fresh supplies of the molluscs. He groaned hanging his head in his hands. This would set him back weeks and much wealth......a particularly portly Duke from the Crasmere region had ordered a full two tonnes of the creature. It was for this that he sat in his cramped office drafting a letter of apology to the lord attempting to explain the loss of mechanise and assuring him that his product would be delivered shortly. Despite himself he could put a damper on the general morale of the Mur. The Festival of Kalya had been a rousing success with much singing and dancing in the Dockyards and the Merchant's Quarter, and a great feast had taken place both inside the Trade Houses for the Mur and the Osmarii craftsmen, and outside for the guests, even the Daughter of Vinnetir has offered their services for free during the Festival choosing from amongst hundreds of men and women who came before them. He additionally scrawled out a brief letter to Harbour Master Dammel of Rhen-Ys to send more Kresh to the ports of Crasmere, thankful that the elder Master had offered to be his business partner, printing the Shalvyian sigil in the corner and entrusting a chest of valuable silks, metals, and crafts including a pair of rather humorous books, one attempting to discuss the reproductive habits of the Daughters from a woefully misinformed Osmarii perspective and another trashy romance said to have been inspired by a night with the two Mur, to cover his expenses and tithes to the crown to go back on the vessel which had escorted the Queen back into harbour. He just hoped that that no more losses be incurred within the month or his fins would dull due to stress. Finally done with his diplomatic and business works be quickly dressed himself in his formal Aklae, the leather breeches and loose fitting mantle. He had yet another dinner party to attend with a family of lesser regional nobility. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.04 00:27:00 - [210] - Quote Sia'tri and Shu'm stared up as the trees ascended into a dense canopy that obscured his view of whatever hidden village the Artugians made made their home, sharing a look a doubtful looks with one another for the briefest of moments, before shamefully asking the Artugians to carry them up the trunks. "I fear our bodies are not suited for climbing such trees. The vines will be too slippery for us." He explained running the unsharpened end of his spear across his palm several times so that the tip gleamed with a thin layer of water permeable oil preferring it to Ria so she could see for herself. Before they Artugian's did port them up the trees the pair practised the gestures Ria had shown them, alternating roles so that both had a fair understanding of the phrases, only stopping to ask Ria the occasional question about the greeting ritual and stopping to explain their own. Land-walkers, Sia'tri observed, were a curious people and seemed to have many strange notions of what was. Confident they had memorised the phrase the stood by the base of the trees thankful that they themselves did not have to climb the slick and tangled vines themselves. "Whom.... will take me?" asked Shu'm trying to match her speech to that of the Artugians glancing around. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.04 02:24:00 - [211] - Quote The Coasts of the Southern Continent............ The Mar'hal Hidden Village The climb to the upper boughs of the massive trees was a nerve racking ordeal for the Mur, the Artugians carrying them making slow progress up the vine covered trunks creating a dizzying vista of the jungle floor below that caused Sia'tri's head to swim as he began to perceive the riotous colours below. It reminded him of climbing the heavy rigging of the Thallassae ships though without the reassuring and predictable motions of the ocean below, instead replacing that sensation with the oddly graceful motions of their porters. He glanced across at Shu'm. Her face was pale and drawn. It appeared that she was not wholly comfortable with heights as the youthful Artugian woman bore her higher and higher, her arm tightly wrapped around her, white knuckled rapidly muttering what Sia'tri supposed were prayers under her breath. "You should....whoa.....watch out for her Shu'm." He tried to explain playfully, his own voice bordering on panic with every sudden movement, earning him a scornful glare. " The one carrying you.... she has.... Goddess preserve me! She has many lovers but apparently no husband ....something like that." As they neared the canopy the foliage drew back and a pair of men entered his view. Beneath him Ria stopped as vines were lowered down to them, Sia'tri taking it and tying it in a knot so that was strongly secured around his chest using it and the aid from the natives above to clamber onto a platform above. [Pending completion] "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.04 04:37:00 - [212] - Quote The pair shared a confused glance. The Male had a thick accent they couldn't quite completely understand however the words he had used, and his attitude seemed rather promising. Though what the chieftain meant about the strangers meant little to the Mur though the reference to the Roughskins suggested to him that he was speaking of the scaled Kami whom he could see scattered throughout the crowd. "We greet you Great Longclaw and are at your mercy. We would be honoured if you could greet us in the way of our people as we have greeted you. We were mapping the coast from the sea when you kin spotted us and were invited here by your wife. " "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.05 02:11:00 - [213] - Quote On the Southern Continent........ Centre of the Marhal Hidden Village Sia'tri accepted the skull hesitantly, carefully holding it to his chest so as not to drop it, or make himself seem ungrateful though he could not help but shiver with a discordant sense of horror at the roughness of the bone against his chest. The Great Leader had said it would watch over them and the Pathfinder appreciate the gesture as he found the idea of a spectre of the native people watching over his reassuring. If aught else it would make for a fabulous gift to the Lady of the Whorl if or when he managed to return to his people. Eventually her presented it to Shu'm who took the skull without protest inspecting it, looking through the eye sockets into the skull itself as though it were alive curtly nodding as if to confirm a personal observation though the gesture easily could have been misconstrued as another example of the Artugian greeting. "It is simple Great Longclaw. We shall share the breath of life." He said placing an arm around the Artugian's shoulder so that his palm was against the man's neck. He was surprised to see the care the leader took with his claws as he reciprocated the gesture. "I shall ask you in a moment if we are welcome as people of the lands. If we are then you must say so, if not then you must also say so." With that he leaded forward placing his forehead against the leader's own so that their noses barely touched for several breaths noting the odd feeling of the Artugian's skin and hair against his own. Such it was that he had never had the opportunity to touch the intriguing substance the land-walkers known as 'hair'. "Asha'liu'kili Manawe. Uie ulithi sahol Ae Manawe Te Lao Laohuna asha'lua? Nan Kalya, Te Waihne o Whorl Una'unlaki." [ Roughly translates in Old Murrish to "[Of] The welcoming land. Are we to this place from the Depths welcomed? By Kalya, The Lady of the Whorl let it be so.] "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.08 00:07:00 - [214] - Quote On the Southern Continent........ Marhal Hidden Village "We thank your for that Great Longclaw. It is an honour to be paid in kind, you and your kin are welcome amongst our people as friends. I am Sia'tri formerly a pathfinder for my expedition but now it's leader. " Said the young male confidently addressing the crimson haired lord with a respectful tone. " We have come from a land across the sea called Sy'thal to explore this land. The bulk of my people landed in the South...... I must admit we never truly expected to find any others in these lands....." He flicked his gaze over to Ria and Maral then around the circle. The Artugians were an exotic people, more so than many of the other races Sia'tri had been fortunate to meet but the fairest, besides his own, by a long ways. Despite his position as the expedition leader he found both the two women incredibly beautiful if for nothing else than the blazing red hair both possessed. "We are keen to learn of your ways Longclaw. How you live, your Gods, the physiology of your people." He glanced around the village suspended in the canopies of the great trees with a genuine sense of wonder admiring the manner by which the Artugians had seamlessly managed to make their home amongst the trees, far cry from the small abandoned settlements his expedition had encountered not long ago. This city amongst the trees was like nothing the Mur had even dared dream. "My people struggle in the South. I would do what I must to aid them so that we too might live and thrive in these seas as Lady Shuri'den'shalvys, our leader, had bid us to." Synopsis - Skadii-an Mur now consider the Artugians as: friends. Skadii-an Mur offer to trade with the Artugians. Skadii-an Mur culturally consider the Artugians the most attractive non-Mur species and the Parians/Kami the least attractive. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.09 00:54:00 - [215] - Quote On the Southern Continent ....... Mar'Thal Hidden Village As the Great Longclaw spoke both Sia'tri and Shu'm found themselves engrossed by the Artugian's thick accent and his explanation of their culture, beliefs and shared histories hanging on to the words, Shu'm even taking a her piece of drawing graphite from the pathfinders harness and began to transcribe his words as best she could. When he was done the two Mur began to discuss the information they had gleaned about the Artugian people with Sia'tri reading over the hastily scrawled transcriptions several times adding his own foot notes to what was slowly becoming a treatise on the native culture. The culture seemed to be a pragmatic and overly literal approach to the Shal'cii , Mountains Mantled in Flame of which only one existed in the Isles, and other concepts in a manner the Mur did not. When the great leader finished speaking of the conflicts of his people Sia'tri began to speak of the Isles, explaining to the Artugians of the verdant steppes, long run rivers, and the lakes and how the Mur founded their culture around these places with each man working to sustain the settlement and their neighbours. Where his memory failed or he was unable to convey and idea Shu'm took over explaining with a simple manner of a woman who had whelped three children from spawning grotto to adulthood which seemed to simplify the explanations for the Artugians who were listening. They also tried to explain their Gods, including how they were arranged in the Covenant, how they values art and the efforts of craftsmur, and finally briefly touching on Mur history which provided a subject of much embarrassment for the two as they tried to explain what little they could without instruments or song. "....We typically sing of the past sorrows and only on very special occasions......however we once had a homeland called Shalvys and it was lost to us. That was when we....our entire people.... crossed the seas in one great voyage to land in lovely Sy'Thal." Shu'ms voice was low and she looked uncomfortable. They even coluded to cover more recent history speaking about how they ended their isolation to trade with the other peoples at the behest of Shuri'den'shalvys, they best either could do was describe her as the most beautiful woman in the world. With all said and done Sia'tri asked for leave and a guide so that he could meet with his people on the beach where they had found to let his pathfinders know the natives were friends also offering any Artugians who wished it passage to the south where the Mur were constructing a settlement. Though her feared the mention of ships would infuriate the Greatclaw he nonetheless explained that his people had come to three massive Thalassae numbering some four hundred Mur in total along the length of the coast. Shu'm offered to spend time amongst the Artyee women of the village and the young Artugians to help out how she could smiling as some of them occasionally approached her with soft spoken greeting and curious looks at her polymorphous body asking if she was a truly was a woman, or to look at her graphite, a few of them touching her seaweed green braids. She even picked one of the youths under the arms lifting them up inspecting them closely, the small artya squealing with delight, comparing the skin and hair to the nearby mother whom she greeted with a bow hoisting the young one up on her hip to place a fist over her heart. Synopsis Mur and Artugian Culture exchanged Sia'tri asking to bring more Mur from his settlement to Mar'hal and offering to take Artugians to the South of the Continent Shu'm asking to spend time amongst the Artugians Sia'tri reveals the Mur came on large ships "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.14 22:03:00 - [216] - Quote Amongst the Mur during the last few weeks. In Skadia.......the Coral Tower. With the Festival having been completed successfully and the representatives of the landborn nations dispersing to tend to their own Nations Shuri'den'shalvys extended a hand of hospitality to the Tal-Man ambassador Grey and the Angellian leader Animaya bidding them say just a few more days in the city. She scheduled a sitting the morning following the summit between the three groups so that anatomical drawings could be taken of the Tal-Man and Angellians. "Good morning to you both." She said warmly greeting the guests in one of the lower chambers of the tower where the Mur had set stools out before a simple marble pedestal. Parchment and sketching charcoal had been provided and several Mur artists, a male and a female, sat ready. "I thank you for this opportunity. Tis a gift from your people to ours and one that is deeply appreciated." As the groups prepared themselves for to the sitting Sephrena entered the room. She carried with her a small swatch of woven lace which she presented to Shuri'den'shalvys with a look of pride. "My Lady. Tis a new design by the weavers. Well suited for the ladies of the Landborn courts if Kal'm's reports are to be believed." She exclaimed, seeming both excited but at the same time almost petulant. "The Weavers had outdone themselves this time." Shuri'den nodded kindly. Indeed they had. She gestured to the pedestal and the artists, explaining the situation at which point the young woman nodded then excused herself. On the High Northern Seas. Tammari'sen had never formed a mated pairing before. Not with any man before or after she had been accepted as one of the Vinnetir's adepts and risen to the rank of priestess . However loathing she had to admit that the arrangement between herself and the Fleet Captain was not a particularly demanding one nor unpleasant. With his wounds needing time to heal the fleet as a whole had been summoned to the rocky coastline on the South Eastern Paric Coastline. Each ship arriving within the span of mere days flying Skadian merchant colours. Any close inspection of the vessels would have revealed these were of course warships and not the vessels of merchant men though it appeared each ship had engaged in minor skirmishes along the coast lines the spirits of the vessels remained in tact and the morale of the crews were high. In Man'tiel's stead she surveyed the cargoes of the vessels noting with growing anticipation that number of bowspirits collected. Almost a dozen bowspirits and the cargo from several independent merchant vessels. It might be enough, she considered wishing to run back to the Maelstrom to tell the Fleet Captain, almost enough to go home. In Osmarium. [TBC] On the Southern Continent......Marhal Hidden Village. [TBC] "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.22 02:57:00 - [217] - Quote In Kysma, a Skirmish in the East Khorvendi Province Kallas stumbled through the chaos of war tripping over dozens of redskinned corpses as he dashed long spear in hand between bulging lines as six thousand Kysmal threw themselves at one another, howling, spears glinting as they thrust forwards. The battle had been going poorly for Lucent Khormhe's army ever since the Rah'ten, company lord, in charge of the left flank had been struck in the throat by a black fletched arrow of another Lucent archer from nearly seventy yards. The shot would have been impressive were it not solely attributed to luck, the shaft having passed by the personal guard of their Rah'ten and tearing open his throat at the same moment she'd lowered her shield, the nobleman archer would already be feeling the shame of a skilless kill. His padded leather jacket flapped at his side. Torn and rent by almost a dozen arrows he'd been lucky to have survived at all given the intolerable lack of discipline in the army. Barely one in a dozen knew the proper stances required of the long spear and even fewer given the punishment of the bow knew a a properly oiled string from a damp one. As such it had been no wonder that their left wing, almost entirely composed of recruits under the newly furnished company lord, had collapsed so spectacularly when the forward spear lines buckled under heavy fire. His own platoon had been assigned as a rearguard. Apparently the Highlucent Kysmalli had expected this to happen and left a disposable arm of his forces to slow down the bulk of the enemy vanguard. Their platoon had help though defending the high ground in a discplined ring of spears striking down at any knots of soldiers that approached them, exchanging thrusts until their foes had limped away defeated, and earning glory for every man amongst them who fell to those black feathered arrows. You could tell a Lucent's army apart they said by the fletching on his archer's quivers or the knots of banded fabric's tied to each spear head. His own was the regal silver of the Khormhe's while their foes were the unsightly black of the northerners from Amahransh. It was the second time in a decade these thrice damned cowards had launched an incursion into the central province buffering the homeland seeking to claim the every precious plateaus of his people. He slowed. Mind screaming at him to slow his pace, to let it organise itself and accept that he wasn't dead. Every one else was, everyone except him. Why wasn't he dead. The previous moments of battle were a haze. Bitter, filled with fear. His thrusts had been faster then, more accurate, each one felled a foe. Then their spear wall had been broken, that rain of shafts, then nothing. Silence. A surge of energy, a cracking sound like as sundering of the very heavens.......and he'd been running... for his lines, the enemy forces routed and falling back. Kallas was no coward. He'd not abandoned his post. Kallas would have gladly relished fighting to his dying breath but not like this, not for some hopeless cause, a battle like any other with no meaning. The horns sounded. A single short blast, a notification, then once more. A long mournful note. Retreat. His heart sank. Their platoon's sacrifice would be in vain. "Shah'ten, V'tshmal am at anlnya palambas?" He screamed over the din at a familiar form, the slightly glowing form of the Battalion Lord. Begging for an audience with the man before he took to the field to cut a line of retreat free for his soldiers. "What is it soldier?" He answered absently, slowly running a heavily armoured gauntlet down the length of his heavy twinblade blade. From atop his Yhagram he looked a regal figure indeed. Kallas wondered if he was in the presence of the High Lucent.....but reminded himself that this warrior was too young, too powerfully built. He looked to be almost a decade younger than the spearman. Most likely only just past his thirteenth nameday. "Shah'ten......we must not retreat. We can still salvage the day....." He said breathlessly, for a moment forgetting his place. "You presume to question you better's judgement soldier? What caste are you to question the High Lucent?" The youth asked pointedly. "I....I merely...." "What rank soldier?" "Mah'tal Naemsaer, Shah'ten." "Hmmmmm son of a forgeman. You forget yourself and your place. But humour me how might we salvage this day. I might set of to slay their vanguard in a good mood." He struggled with the words, trying to explain what he had seen as his company had died around him. The events were becoming cleared but he couldn't quite bring himself to remember. "In full retreat you say?" The Battalion Lord looked thoughtful. Then his eyes narrowed. "Where is your company. What was that thunderclap?" His only reply was weak. His body was shaking, not from fatigue, something else. "I don't know sir? Dead....but I don't know." "It matters not. But....... It is worth the risk to the army. Lucent Khormhe will forgive me if my battalion incurs additional losses to bring him victory. We push right!" The army stopped retreating hesitantly then reformed ranks following their commanders, all eyes reinvigorated, hungry for glory, knowing they would die. "Soldier" It was the Shah'ten, he'd closed his visor. Kallas could barely tell the youth's age now, just felt the same involuntary shudder of anticipation staring up at that ash coloured armour, the Lucent's glow peeking through the recesses in the plate. "I care not if you are coward but you must tell me how the lines were opened." Kallas shuddered. He knew what was about to happen. Stories spread about this sort of thing but few believe them. The Lucent's were honourable. "I......" "Tell me soldier." There were tears in the soldier's eyes, hot, anrgy. "I....I just pushed......and they all died." "I see." It was a knowing tone, almost regretful. The Lucent's sword swept down. "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.22 05:22:00 - [218] - Quote In Kysma, after the Skirmish in the East Khorvendi Province When Kallas awoke it was not to the sounds of the screaming and the dying as he had expected. It was to the peaceful sounds of steel toed boots in the mud and to slight rattling of spears against breast plates and steel caps as soldiers called out to one another across the open rows of drum angular wind resistant tents that usually comprised the familiar setting of an armed war camp. Similar such camps had been his home for the better part of the last seven years of his life since he has enlisted with the local Lucent and marched to war with all of the other men patriotic young men and women of his village. Patriotic. His mind railed against the term. Patriotism was not demeaning a soldier in the middle of a battle. Nor was it enjoying the slaughter of your kinsmen. It was not betraying a soldier who brought news of a collapsing enemy flank. He sighed deeply trying to understand where he was. I looked like a small alcove of am infirmary. The while silken walls of the tent bulged slightly as if to reinforce his suspicions tied together with a black fabric he vaguely recognised though there were no sounds of the wounded, no surgeons demanding additional supplies, no wailing of lovers over the glorified bodies of their dead. He was alone, surrounded by casks of medical supplies and wrapped up neatly into a cot with a mess of bandages fastened firmly across his chest. He was wounded. The Lucent youth had betrayed him! He growled in a feral manner. "Is he awake?" A voice from outside the sable fabric screen. It carried a weight of authority that the spearman knew all to well. A Lucent. A short staccato burst of conversation erupted from outside the tent as one of the surgeons protested the Lucent's inquiries and forbade him to enter the infirmary. A surgeon dare rebuke a noble, his mind was already reeling. Eventually the surgeon gave in and allowed the stranger access to the infirmary. Kallas feigned sleep. He barely knew what was going on. Was he still in Khormhe's war camps? Whom had recovered him from the carnage of the field and for what reason. "Boy." The voice was stern and directed at him, it had an odd lyrical quality, knowingly. "Get up soldier. It is the least you can do for those who have saved your life." The spearman opened his eyes slightly, jaw dropping with horror. Before him was another Lucent, though this one was distinctly recognisable as arguably the most despised man from the Khorvendi Province, the Vsh'tan Nairn Amharah, the Black Prince of the North, his enemy, and the man who had shattered his army. He was in typical Kysmal fashion a powerfully built man his greying hair swept back from his forehead carefully and tied back with woven strands of his own hair which a midlength mane of a beard covered his jaw giving him the appearance of one of the steppes leonine, albiet with a rich crimson hue of skin that faintly glowed. He sat before Kallas barechested, covered in scars and bandages, some of which appeared to be from campaigns some decades past while other were still a puckered angry shade of pink. Kallas shrugged the covered of the cot, gasping breathlessly as he shifted into a seated position as if shards of ice ran through his veins, each breath throbbing painfully. The wound must have deeper than he'd thought if the surgeons had administered the Khrsmaek, a powerful and expensive pain killer. He coughed painfully regarding the bloody spittle that appeared on his hands with an incredulous look. " It's more than just the Khrsmaek keeping you alive son. It's the Authorities boy, and a fairly elaborate fabricae which had held you together thusfar. I've commited the investment to keeping you alive after what you did. You have my thanks now that Khormhe's forces have been shattered. We even had to spend days keeping people away from you given how unstable the Authorities were around you." "What.....what I did?" He said with a sinking feeling. "Indeed. Your distraction for lack of a better word took the heart out of the army. To think a friendly soldier crushed his army and gave his son a glorious death. You are more than entitled to fair compensation I think." Panic was rising in Kallas and threatening to overwhelm him. Dark flashed before his eyes, a great pressure within his mind.. "Oh Goddess no...... I didn't mean to...I never wanted him dead. I just didn't want to die!" "And you won't providing you do the right thing and serve." The warlord grinned smugly. "As one of my Shaper's. In my army." "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.06.23 23:41:00 - [219] - Quote In Skadia, the Coral Tower Shuri'den found herself quite dwarfed by the Tal-Man ambassador who presented her what to him may have looked to be a small glass of the proffered wine, to her the glass flute was more akin to the size of a bowl. She watched the sketching, sipping at the pungent liquid, noting how oddly insistent the Mur scholars and artists had to be to ensure the Tal-Man models fully disrobed completely to ensure the veracity of the sketches. These Kin'kre had odd notions about propriety and the function of clothing in it's preservation which she found utterly curious considering they found themselves in a culture where no such parallels existed. "And I shall thank you Ambassador Grey. I should like to try some." The Tal-Man, even the more common amongst them bore and impressive stature and towered in some cases two or more feet over even the talles to the Skadii-an and were significantly broader in terms of body mass. The Angellis on the other hand were slight of build but no less regal and the gaze of many female seemed Mur lingered upon them. She was unsure what to make of the Angellis though. Her dialogues with Animaya had taken a scholarly focus rather than one in which the essence of their cultures had been exchanged and as such her notions about the pale islanders from the North had not yet fully formed. Beneath the balcony on which they stood the Mur had finally succeeded in reading the models from the sitting and the artists were already beginning the preliminary sketches. Her's were a people truly fascinated with transitions. The ebb and flow of life and cultures with the focus being on how arrives at the conclusion than the act of arriving there at all. Shuri'den'shalvys dearly loved them all, the Mur that busied themselves in the chamber before them, the Mur who lived in the Isles, those who journeyed far abroad to the South, the North, and the East. She noted his stare and Animaya's fascination with the processes below, perhaps with was the her innate sense of academia calling out to those of a similar nature or perhaps it was the Authority channeling mechanisms next to her artists that fascinated the woman. Each was a recessed metal sphere set into a central housing that rested on a tripod, it glowed slightly with and artificial light that seemed distinctly out of place in the completely naturally lit tower. A long spindly arm set against a flattened section of parchment worked furiously across the page connecting lines, curves of the body, reinforcing the shading, into the likeness of the models. " If it would please you then we may speak privately, but not now. Later." She said to Grey, before turning to Animaya. "What do you think? Or is it perhaps you are interested in the Fabricae?" "Crush all who complain!" `- Arkena Wyrnspire`
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.02 23:09:00 - [220] - Quote In Skadia The Coral Tower [Ending Scene] Mid-way through the sitting Animaya found it too restricting up on the raised balcony where Shuri'den'shalvys and the Tal-Man Ambassador Grey stood and excused herself to look at the Fabricae and make her own personal inquiries into the anatomical etchings being compiled. Convinced of their privacy she turned to the hulking Tal-Man, holding the comically oversized glass in two hands. "We are alone. You mentioned a proposition." Three Months Later...... in Mar'Thal "It's an abomination" Shu'm said quietly looking at the first of several Artugian vessels, the skeletal remains of a long deal ancestor tied proudly to the bow of the vessel in some cruel and profane imitation of an figurehead. "We did not teach them this.....how does this vessel have a spirit of its own? How can it sail over seas if the remains of a land-walker on its prow has no heart?" Even Sia'tri was physically repulsed by the examples of craft the Artugians paraded so proudly across the waves of the shallow coves on which they'd initially been taught to sail. He shared the same look that all of his kin had upon discovering how the Artrugians had crafted the prototypes of their own ships. One of sadness and inexorable hurt. "Yes. It is wrong." He growled turning away from them. "But it's their way...... It's what they choose to do with this knowledge that will determine our responsibilities to the Artugians." With that the pair set off for the city of Mar'Thal. In the three months since their arrival they had acclimatised to the heights of the city and established a rope pulley system from bringing the Mur up into the city limits however despite this innovation the Artugians still leapt from tree to tree and refused to use the liters. Perhaps the Greatclaw would be able to explain himself to them. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.03 00:45:00 - [221] - Quote In Kysmal, the Eastern Khorvendi Province In the three months since his army had been shattered by the northern forces and heGÇÖd been made a captive of the invading forces, of VshGÇÖtan Nairm Ahmarah, Kallas had never felt freer that he did not being escorted towards the commanded tents by the VshGÇÖtanGÇÖs own personal guard. The sound of steel shod boots in the mud was reassuring as no other sound ever had been, the clattering of spear and pike against breast plates, and the roars of approval as the red-skinned soldiers sat around the lyrical compositions of GÇÿA Lass Not Forgotten.GÇ¥ He had to admit that being in one of the city-like stationary warcamps was a reassuring feeling. Each one had a unique feel but was functionally the same. Each such war camp was broken down into districts where the centre most were home to camp followers, wives, children, and craftsmen, ringed entirely by separate military districts assigned to companies that would police their own areas. The camp followers and craftsmen usually received Shaper support in setting up permanent dwellings, hewing entire buildings from the basalt spires that rose up from the plateauGÇÖs, which often times became the focus point for more developed townships or return points for armies as they moved from one battle to the next. Meanwhile disciplined rows of massive barrack-tents the colour of damp ashes, held together with crimson twine, and ringed the encampment supported by secondary drum like structures that typically housed married offices of higher rank. Nearly twenty feet beyond them lay the Stormwall, arguably the most important part of the encampments forming a vast wind breaker comprised of angled walls of jagged earth around the tents, meeting at a central point on the windward side of the camp. Part fortification, part practical the lands of Kysmal were scarred by such iconic land marks. HeGÇÖd initially been set up in a small tent on the leeward side of the encampments. At one point heGÇÖd thought it a cruel form of punishment, perhaps they wished him to die alone from exposure or be blown away by one of the violent storms that ravaged the lands outside of the protective arms of the plateaus. Instead heGÇÖd come to realise that the measure was one of pragmatism rather than cruelty. His Authorities were out of control. They had fluctuated beyond his control sending powerful waves of energy radiating from his body that often times collapsed his tent or snuffed out his struggling fires which took hours in the cold to relight. To bring that into the camps would invite discord. And discord was the bane of a soldierGÇÖs life. HeGÇÖd eventually been able to control them though, to a point. Left to more or less fend for himself heGÇÖd taken to practicing with his spear and with the twin blade that Nairn Amharah had presented him though he refused to touch the ashen armour that had formerly belonged to his former HighLucentGÇÖs son. He quickly discovered the energies manifested themselves when he grew restless and could be suppressed simply by following the standard routine that had been his entire life in the army. Wake, Run, Spearwork, Run, Sleep. Simple as it sounded it proved enough to be the key to at least preventing the Authorities manifesting themselves in more destructive ways as they had in his previous battle. He remembered little enough of the conflict though, only that somehow heGÇÖd been able to push away an entire platoon of heavily armed Highborn and a Lucent. After three months of isolation as the army weathered the second storm season of the year he finally felt well enough, both physically with his wound healing more rapidly now leaving him a scar that many Ksymal found attractive, and mentally having worked through the sense of guilt at his inadvertent betrayal. Nairn Amharah had been more than patient enough with him and was only too happy to oblige his request for a meeting, sending a half dozen of her personal guard to collect him. Kallas had been sure to exhaust himself that morning however, running twice his normal distances. When he met the VshGÇÖtan he was surprised to see the man fully armoured in his plate, and towering over the other attending Kysmal. Some poor bastard had challenged him to a duel. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.05 23:38:00 - [222] - Quote On the High Northern Seas..... Tammari'sen had to admit that being in a mated pair was not so bad. She still retained the freedom and influence of her position as a Daughter and found that Man'tiel was a particularly undemanding partner as the wounds he had sustained in combat began to heal. In the weeks following she had led the crews on several more raids against independent foreign vessels and even against two Skadi-an merchant ships out of Burtgun the losses from which had forced her to consolidate the crews from four ships into three and at Man'tiels order scuttled one the oldest vessel, the Riptide, off of the coast of Blood Raider coast line. Upon discovering that one of their hauls contained tithes to the Shalvian Princess from their homeland the Maelstrom rather audaciously docked by moonlight several miles from the Burtgun inlet and anonymously returned the supplies to the Mur Tradehouses. Even as thieves and pirates no Mur would ever steal from the House of Shalvys, the oceans frowned upon it. Convinced they held enough to merit and offering they set sail for Ahlar. On the Southern Continent...... Sia'tri and Shu'm found themselves barred from watching the Durna ceremony by Artugian guardsmen who it seemed since their arrival had adopted crude forms of armour and weapons. This sudden militancy by the formerly primitive people concerned them greatly and they returned to their accommodations in Mar'thal to await the Greatclaw's return. Off the coast of Kysmal.....deck of the Flagship Cloudburst Fleet Commander Welkin looked out across the field of battle with a mixture of disgust and guilt. The Kysmal had tried to leave their shores again and had paid a heavy price for their folly. The Redskinned brutes had finally deployed a small armada of six large vessels against them heavily manned by warriors with spear and breast plate. It was almost remarkable how tenacious these people were, how industrious their society could be if their focus wasn't solely on waging war. It was almost regrettable that he had to be here in their waters with the largest detachment of the Skadii-an Fleet policing their waters however it was truly a service to the other Landborn peoples, especially those who valued a true and lasting peace. Welking dismissed though thoughts however. It was war. These people would not be allowed to leave their homelands if he had any say about it. He turned away leaving the burning remains of the Kysmali fleet to illuminate the night, and their muffled screams as Drowners filled their lungs with sea water and opened their throats beneath the waves. In Osmarium.....Burtgun Kalm had sought out the Osmari Chancellor for a very specific reason. The tensions between the Paric and the Tal-man..... including the emergence of this new movement called the Cauti and it was his duty as a representative of the Shalvian peoples that he make the interests of the Mur known to their trade partners. "Good day Chancellor. It is good of you to take the time to see me again. I come on behalf of Shuri'den'shalvys and the Mur. We are concerned about the destabilisation of the Tal-Man region. We realise this may sound imprudent however we must make our own stance known to you. The Trade Houses in Osmarium represent the largest single importer and exporter of goods to and from the Isles. It also serves as our primary staging point from which we organise our shipping routes bringing in great wealth from tariffs and trade......" He paused momentarily for the Chancellor to grasp his point. "The Tal-Man represent a significant investment for my people. In any event our stance is one of neutrality and as such it means the continuation of shipments to and from the region. We however recognise your sovereignty over the port and realise our actions my reflect upon your monarchy. We would know your opinion on the matter." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.06 00:44:00 - [223] - Quote In Kysmal.....Eastern Khorvendi Province As the Highlucent Amharah began to speak Kallas felt a sense of dread rise in the pit of his stomach growing colder and more present with every word like a slap to his face. The heavily armoured Highlucent explained how Khormhe had surrender after a particularly decisive skirmish several days ago and was being brought to trial before the army through a duel. Perhaps worse still Nairn explained that it had been some years since the Highlucent had stopped listening to the directives of the King and had resisted Amharah's attempts to depose the rogue prince and pacify the lands. Khormhe's lies had made his people rebels and sullied their honour. It was sickening that those who were supposed to be better had failed him and his entire family. A faint radiance brought on by his Authority burst from his skin, striking Nairn on the breastplate and staggering a few of the guardsmen who levelled their weapons hissing in a threatening manner. The dark haired Prince only grinned. "Now it would be well within my rights to execute the Highlucent for his crimes....." He mused in a gruff tone, rubbing at the forked beard that extended down from his chin around the plate's gorget. "But that would hardly do the snake a justice.....perhaps I could have a champion represent me?" Kallas froze. Blinking twice in disbelief at the insinuation. "Please." He cried, throwing himself to his knees in supplication. " I'll do it. I'll join you army if you let me avenge their honour. My Family, my people's Plateau, those who died for him. Just let me be the one to kill him." The Vsh'tan looked thoughtfully down at the young Kysmali warrior whose head was pressed to the floor. For a moment he looked about to decline however relented and ordered one of his attendants to make the announcement of the change of opponents. "For what this is worth boy." He said dismissively. "This will be an honourable bout, Khormhe has a right to his plate and his greatblade as both belonged to him when he turned himself over. You also have plate and a twimblade. We can have it brought if you like or furnish you. What is your choice? greatblade or twim?" "Neither sir." Kallas offered the Highlucent a sharp salute. He glanced down at his loose fitting black and white ".....I'm proficient with neither..... however if there is one a spear or pike might do. A set of leathers too if nothing else presents." Almost an hour later Kallas stepped out of the Vsh'tan's tent into a throng of soldiers all of whom glared at him with an undisguised irritation. They had come to see Nairn fight and kill the traitor prince in a battle between nobles. Now they would have to suffer a common soldier of no mentionable rank, one who was likely to die against a man in heavy armour and wielding a six foot long greatblade. Eventually the throng made way for him allowing Kallas to push his way into a wide circle about ten metres in diameter laid with sand and mixed with ruby and sapphire dust which shot the otherwise drab arena through with veins of red and ocean blue.....it was an arena for a nobleman, not a smith's son. Standing opposite him as a tower of interlocking steel plates and emanating a slight glow was Highlucent Khormhe. The young spearman felt the anger simply melt away in the face of discipline and focus. A horn sounded from amidst the roaring crowd. The first of three. A look of shock appeared on the Highlucent's face, then one of recognition and rage. A second sonorous blast plunged the crowd into silence. Kallas loosened his grip on the spear and shifted into a defensive stance. The third and final sounding amidst the rhythmic hammering of ends of spears and pike into the ground. The Highlucent charged raising the sword over his head for a downwards strike. This time he was calm as a lucent who swung his blade at him. Once again he pushed. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.07 01:25:00 - [224] - Quote The Ancestor K'lo was a mystery to the two Mur representatives who could only look on with a mixture of shock and curiosity. Unlike her kin whose hair was like a dawning sun hers was the opposite like moonlight reflecting off of a serene lake. She spoke with two voices, one that bespoke the weight of years while another that seemed to weave into it as through it were crossing a great distance to do so. She was exquisitely young, though it was a perceptibly unnatural. She would remind them of their own Shuri'den'shlavys. Possessed of a nature that set her apart from her peers, an inexorable aura of command. Sia'tri started slightly as the strange looking Artee touched him, carefully so as not to cut him with her poisoned claws, giggling and pulling back as the air left his lungs leaving him short of breath and wide eyed. Shu'm said nothing though by the way he jaw had dropped he too was taken aback by the nature of the two who stood present. "........" All the Pathfinder would manage. "........" Shu'm contributed helpfully. They stared for a few moments longer before they remembers themselves and offered K'lo a traditional Artugian greeting, the bow, the words, they all seemed oddly hesitant as if the two Mur didn't want to stop looking at the Ancestor. After observing the ritual they welcomed the guests into Sia'tri's accommodations. Shu'm reluctantly excused herself from the meeting however, she was to sit with the Artee of the village while they reared their young, leaving Sia'tri, the Greatclaw, and the intimidating K'lo to speak alone. "It is...... or it was... I...." He started up a the Greatclaw cautiously. "We are troubled by this militancy we have observed amongst your kin. The gift to sail the seas, navigate by the starts, and to discover new lands was given freely and without reservation.....but .... this does little to change how I feel." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.07 03:03:00 - [225] - Quote "Revenge and war in this case are the same thing..... I fear in this endeavour that despite my personal feelings you must stand on your own... we cannot afford to bring a large bulk of our military forces to the mainlands as they are engaged elsewhere." Sia'tri cleared his throat trying not to acknowledge the fact that the Ancestor was continuing to stare at him. "However we do have a responsibility to your people now. The oceans were our gift to you and there is aught else that might diminish its value. This means more to us that you might ever understand." He glanced back at K'lo. He didn't recognise her form the village and felt that he had more or less met with the greater part of the Durna Tribe who lived in Mar'Thal during his three month period between the hidden treetop city and the Skadii-an settlements in the South. Their own progress had advanced rapidly and much of what resembled the early depictions of the Rhen'Ys Harbour Scapes in their foundling days had been constructed in the wide inlets. Still the Ancestor seemed out of place amongst her kin, the crimson hair had become something of a fascination amongst his people whom found it irresistible, and its absence in K'lo was fascinating. Perhaps she was a new species or step in Artugian maturity that his people had not been exposed to. Focusing on the matter at hand was difficult with her present. She was very pretty even for an Artugian whom were rather universally considered beautiful by Mur males and females alike though the typical preference was for another of the same specifies. She also appeared young, physically at least he noted appraisingly, and had a silvery white hair. Mur were a somewhat poetic race by their nature, and such parallels as he had made during the first moments of their meeting flashed through his mind. The whole situation was uncomfortable. Mur he recognised bitterly were particularly poor at concealing how they felt both emotionally as well as physically. Sometimes he loathed how exposed the polymorphism of his species made him feel. He turned back to the Greatclaw awkwardly. "If there is aught our people here in the Southern Oceans can do for you name it. We owe you that and more for aiding us in our time of need." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.07 21:03:00 - [226] - Quote In Mar'Thal...... Sia'tri blinked once looking thoughtful as he turned away from the Artugians. Wishing to meet Shuri'den'shalvys was of to be expected given how often and highly both he and Shu'm had spoken of her to the Artugians upon their meeting though that it were so soon after the two species had come into contact with one another was endearing. The Artugians seemed a vastly more industrious people than the Mur. Perhaps it was the nature of their lives in the South, short and brutal, that spurred them on to advance. The Pathfinder cleared his throat before turning back to them. "I would be honoured to convey to the Isles of mine people Lady Nightstalker... a title of respect to account for your skin and hair.... I mean if the term please you Ancestor." He replied with a certain degree of hesitance. "I shall leave Shu'm to represent our people here and witness the Durna between the Tribes. By your leave Greatclaw we could make sail in a matter of days. A new clipper has been commissioned, swift and able to convey a small crew across the continental seas, it only requires but a few more days of the spiritbond before it can sail." He turned to K'lo, looking past her. "Does this sound agreeable Lady Nightstalker? I would greatly like to show you my homeland and you would be most welcome in Shuri'den'shalvys domain." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.07 22:08:00 - [227] - Quote Three Months Ago...... In the Coral Tower.... For the first time since their meeting the Mur-woman's features twisted and darkened into something that one might describe as awesome rather than beautiful. It was as if there was a storm behind her brow that reflected in her eyes, the iridescent changes in shade becoming more tumultuous as her fins along her fore arms and legs sharply flared. " I understand." She said harshly. "This..... piracy is a direct concern of my people as the Seas belong to us, we too have had reports of ships lost with all hands drowned. Though I feel I must make it clear to you Ambassador Grey that my people would appreciate a discrete approach to any further inquiries you make in regards to this issue.....that being said I shall look into it. Little happens on or beneath the waves that we do not hear of." She paused a moment mulling over the Kin'Kre's words of this new and previously undiscovered people. She understood very little of Land-walker concepts though the words themselves seemed to make sense. Slavery neither made spiritual nor practical sense in the Isles given the Skadii-an Passions and to have one create in place of another yielded no personal development or glory as a craftsman. Within the Isles no Mur was beholden to any by law though respect and service were given freely to the line of Shalvys. However this was not wholly true. Within the arms of the Covenant of Vinnetir a priestess might claim the life of a captive for their god through it was not a commonly practised observance, and one that dated back to the times where the Maelstrom and it's Herald crossed oceans of the world. Not being one of Vinnetir's disciplines even Shuri'den'shalvys herself have little idea what kind of treatment the Daughters of Vinnetir would subject one they had claimed to. "How did you come by these..... barbarians?" She asked, reasserting a measure of her previous composure. " If I should find your proposal agreeable then perhaps in time and after I have consulted with the Harbour Masters we might consent to an exchange." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.07 22:26:00 - [228] - Quote In Mar'Thal...... Sia'tri nodded and followed John to the Throne of Skulls, watching with trepidation how the two argued, eventuating in a challenge for Durna. Though the two Mur leaders of the expedition had initially been barred from watching the previous Durna it was clear from Jon's wounds that it would undoubtedly end with something as barbaric as trial by combat or self mutilation. More pressing was that unlike previous encounters Jon would be disadvantaged against the poisonous claws of an Artyee. "You cannot mean to do this Greatclaw! Your wounds have barely closed let alone healed from your previous conflicts..... and losing either you or the Artyee with only serve to weaken your people not bring them together. Elect a champion to stand in your stead, a loyal Artugian better suited to combat, or forgo the trial and live to fight with your people." [Next post will be determined by Jon's answer to this post] Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.07 23:28:00 - [229] - Quote In the Coral Tower....... Present Day...... "What of these Cauti Adelya? Tell me of their recent activities." Shuri'den'shalvys lounged back in her high backed chair of lightning pink coral, an arm streaming long trails of highly oxygenated blood extended into the gaping maw of Tsh'ehlu, the enormous Gods-kin that inhabited the upper reaches if the Coral Tower. "It is my understanding they bar us passage to Tal-Man proper." Adelya had presented herself that morning, armoured in her traditional scale sub-ligar, at her matriarch's request to relay the specifics of the Cauti occupation of Tal-Man Lands and now stood to attention on the smaller of the two islands that comprised the throne room. Mote of bio-luminescent light, the spirit leavings of long passed Lant-rays and the swaying fronds of the oceanic seaweeds almost seemed to reached out for them. To say that their occupation had disrupted trade between the two nations was an understatement as the coastal regions now belonged to the rebellion in earnest forcing the Mur merchants to either circumnavigate the continent itself to the Northern coastline or traverse Osmarium in slow moving horse drawn carriages. "It is as you say Shuri'den'shalvys." The female warrior remarked bitterly. "While they haven't openly initiated hostilities they command the Southern regions of what was Tal-Man. Our merchants find no access to through their territories unhindered in in the chaos of the conflicts several such caravans have been lost along the inland routes." "What of the North? Do we still have anchorage? And please, stand at ease Adelya for Goddesses sake." The warrior shifted her stance, dropping the axes so that it's pommel was against the floor and her hands rested across the weapons broad, and elegantly curvaceous head. She looked troubled and lines seemed to he carved into her brow as she pursed her full lips. "Of course Lady Shalvys, none dare bar our passage to the North. With Kal'm and the Tempest in Burtgun and our own fleets now making their presence known in patrolling the oceans South of the Continental Drift there has been nothing to hinder them.....but My Lady the passage north is long and circuitous...." Shuri'den nodded her understanding. "As you say.....what of our other inquiries." "The Piracy? Aye we have made certain discoveries. One of our own military patrol vessels was sunk, all hands lost not but a fortnight past. All hands drowned, throats slit, the keel of the boat was discovered some miles down current and was burnt beyond recognition save for the figure head." The Skadii-an leader leaned forward curiously. "It's bowspirit was gone......" Adelya trailed off letting the insinuation hang between then awkwardly. "I see. It leaves us with two possibilities. Either we speak of piracy with intent to implicate the Covenant, and unlikely scenario at best given the Land-walker's lack of understanding, or that someone has invoked the Maelstrom. That matter aside for now, how do you appraise the stability of the main land?" A pause stretched out between the two women. Adelya found it very hard to find her voice. One one hand the situation was becoming increasingly more dire with news of the Cauti striking out against the Osmari with some kind of aetheric weapon, while on the other hand Shuri'den, one of her oldest friends, was contemplating military action against a foreign power. "Tenuous at best Lady. They change the shape, and not for the better. How long before they have the audacity to think they can defy the edicts of the sea?" "How then should we move against them?" "If we must take action then I suggest we furnish Kal'm in Osmarium with a token force. You might remember him Lady, a Tideshaper of some considerable talent whom has represented our interests in Burtgun. As long as it is no more than a cohort in size I doubt the Osmari would refuse us that . Water way permitting such a force could cross into Tal-Man to harass the Cauti lines in a matter of days. We should contact both of our trade partners and offer them our support." Adelya looked thoughtful a moment. "As for the South...... I fear the situation may become more complicated." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.07 23:54:00 - [230] - Quote In Mar'Thal...... the Drishna Encampment Sia'tri had left the Throne of Skulls as soon as the Greatclaw had left his sight hurrying after the hooded Artugians whom claimed to be from some other tribal group, the Drishna. He found them before they had returned to their encampment following the familiar pathways of the hidden city before two large Artya stopped him short of their leader, the scarred female called Morya. He stepped back as the Artya bared their claws in a menacing fashion, however the action was a mere bluff, Artugians found it distasteful to sully their own claws with blood in battle. Likely this was merely a precaution, one designed to cow him as well as respond to a species they had never seen before. Instead of challenging them he bowed in what he had been taught was the custom of the people. "Lady Redshroud....for your hair and your veil.... I am Sia'tri, One of the Sea as your kind have taken to calling my kin and I. I beseech you, beg you to renounce the challenge to Durna. What honour could you hope to glean in fighting against a wounded man." He said firmly addressing the leader. " Either you shall die and be remembered as a fool amongst the Ancestors or you shall win your authority on the merits of other Artugians. I had hoped Jon would realise the sense in a mutual alliance of tribes...... Consider it Lady Redshroud to preserve the strength of your people." He stared directly at her, challenging. "I have but one more thing to say. Regardless of who triumphs if my people should suffer any harm, we will take back that which we have given unto him. Never again with your descendent fetch water from the rivers unassailable nor shall the skins of your fallen ever be cured by the salt of the seas, for they belong to us. We will teach you to fear what lies beneath the waves once more." With that he returned to the central areas of Mar'Thal to wait for the Durna challenge, perhaps K'lo would be able to talk sense into the contenders. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 19	Posted - 2015.07.08 01:51:00 - [231] - Quote In Mar'Thal........ The scene unfolding before the Mur was both one of horror and violence and Sia'tri found the display altogether too much as the Drishna tore the Redshroud to pieces before his very eyes, consuming what flesh they could though being careful to avoid further damaging her hide. Unable to control himself he threw up noisily at the back of the arena to the gruesome sounds of tendons being shorn and flesh being consumed, all the while the woman screamed through the agonies. He glanced up pale faced at Jon and K'lo. "It's done then? You are still Greatclaw?" Without saying another word Sia'tri fled from the scene of the Durna as quickly as he possibly could making for the coastline where he leapt into the salt spray, and disappeared into the murky depths of the ocean. He did not return for hours and only did return to Mar'Thal in the dead of night. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.08 21:11:00 - [232] - Quote In Mar'Thal.......... Sia'tri found Jon and his guard from the three different tribes he had claimed by the entrance to the city where he'd used the winch mechanism to ascend back into the tangled boughs of the city proper. His expression was dour and though he had succeeded in ridding his mind of the horrific memories from the Durna he still felt and looked wan. "Strong Winds bring you Good Fortune Greatclaw." He mumbled, slipping himself out of the leather harness and onto Mar'Thal's suspended promenade. "Aught seems amiss with you now thanks to your....conquest. You seem to have the Passions own luck." He glanced up at the other three warriors, and then to K'lo. "It would seem you have your cohorts readied. How long until you sail?" Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.08 21:43:00 - [233] - Quote Mar'Thal...... Sia'tri turned to K'lo nodding. "We might depart on the morrow for the Southern Settlements. By the time we reach them the Assail, our clipper, should be ready to sail. If aught is required by you for the journey let us know. As we near the port I can swim ahead to make arrangements." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.09 21:53:00 - [234] - Quote The Southern Continent....... "I shall let no harm come to Lady Nightstalker in our domains Jon Greatclaw. Perhaps one day you might see the Isles as well, Shuri'den'shalvys would welcome you and your kin I am sure." Sia'tri and K'lo set out from Mar'Thal as the first light of the sun crept over the horizon, the former having provisioned lightly for a swift journey down the coasts, in a tiny single masted sloop manned by a small crew of two Mur and one other Artya. With Sia'tri swimming alongside the vessel leaping dozens of feet into the air with each surfacing, exhorting joyous whoops, they made the Mur settlement by the early afternoon. The small alcove was now a bustling port side town reminiscent of those found on the Skadii'an coasrs, dominate by its docks which spanned from one side of the inlet to the other and overshadowed by the vast bulks of the two present Thalassae. As they closed with the docks a small school of armed guardsmen could be seen on sentry duty glinting, distorted beneath the waves with watchful eyes looking seaward. Mur hurried to and fro tending to their business unloading shipments of raw materials freshly arrived from the Isles, fishing with their bare hands darting about faster than their quandaries, while others simply lounged upon the shore in newly mated pairs rather visibly enjoying the warmer climates. Central however to the burgeoning harbour-scape was a particularly elegant vessel. The proud three masted Assail was the settlement's pride and the first ship commissioned by Mur aquitects outside of the Isles with the incomprehensibly sleek design that seemed to defy common sense, high bulwarks, and six sets of shimmering woven gossamer sails with a singular Whorl emblazoned proudly across the face of the mainsail. The bowspirit of this particular vessel was that of a four armed Mur with the lower body of a fish whose tail seemed to coil around and eventually merge with the bowsprit. Long nails extended from the intricately carved fingertips of the spirit-host while flowing locks of hair cascaded down it's tapered shoulders stained red like that of the Artugian peoples. The sloops captain brought the vessel in gently beside the Assail as Sia'tri built up speed beneath the waves and leapt entirely clear of the oceans performing a roll in mid air before landing on the wooden docks above. A few moments later he returned with several lengths of heavy rope and tossed them down to the waiting Mur below who secured the sloop and laid a gangway for K'lo to cross. "Welcome to Sikiana Lady Nightstalker." Announced the Pathfinder with a warm smile. "This place is as yours while you are here and no Mur shall refuse your requests. However I fear our time here might be limited as the Assail will be made ready to sail before sunset. Should you wish to retire your cabin has already been prepared." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.13 22:49:00 - [235] - Quote In Skadia...... Adelya always hated it when the Lady of the Seas Shuri'den'shalvys made us of her Authorities as they saw fit to defy the notion that water flowed ever downwards with gravity or with the tides of the moon. Instead here in the highest chambers of the Coral Tower she stood in silent awe of a woman for whom the oceans would never deny, thousands of droplets and dozens of swirling spiral chutes of water flowing upwards where it pooled upon the ceiling of the chamber having drained completely the waters that had seperated the twin islands of her court exposing the rough porous coral substructure of her throne. Even the water enclosed by the thin layer of aqueous oils that covered her body was not exception and thin strands of silvery water that looked like liquid sliver trailed upwards from her skin, even her blood felt lightened as if it were trying to seek a means of escape from her veins. It was a fascinating feeling being in her presence at a time like this as some unseen force of nature sought to lift her body into the air above. Shuri'den'shalvys eyes narrowed as her seneschal Adelya read the response from the Cauti leadership. For a totalitarian movement intent on removing the arguably more liberal elements of the Tal-Man government from their seat of power the response seemed reserved at best. That being said the outcome was favourable for the Mur who would reclaim their trade routes north from the coasts. However that did little the seneschals doubts. Supporting the Tal-Man as per their trade agreements in times of war was an obligation the Mur people took seriously and attempting to send unarmed merchants through the Northern Passage with raw materials was asking for the Cauti to forsake their oaths and launch an unprovoked assault. Whatever her response was to be to this it would have to be decisive and impress upon the Cauti that her's were not a people to cross. "What say you Lady Shuri'den'shalvys?" Asked Adelya looking concerned. Since adopting her new role as House Shalvys' seneschal in addition to her duties as commander of the Murguard she'd forsaken her scale mail in favour of a loose fitting Maera that seemed to out of place on her were it not for a scale choker and the heavy bladed axe of her order. "The terms are more than fair Lady..... but...." "Speak you mind Adelya. I need to hear it." Came her superior's gentle reply. "I fear the Cauti cannot be trusted My Lady. They stand as rebels already and defy Shorewalker authorities....." "That is hardly cause to war Adelya." "How long will it be until they defy the authority of those who own the seas?" The Shalvyian Mur paused with a sharp intake of air. The gently tapered fins on her forearms and legs twitched with annoyance though it only showed on her face for but a moment Adelya could tell that she was a troubled woman. The prospect of war was greatly concerning and would mean a fundamental alternations in the Whorl's form..... a grand cultural shift for her people. "What would you have me do woman." Shuri'den'shalvys mottled pink and beige skin coloured slightly with embarrassment. " Our terms were accepted. Peace it be until the rebels break the oath and I will not be named a liar by the Shorewalkers." "I would Radiance, have you send a caravan with what raw materials we would seek to supply the Tal-Man with. Send it under guard to ensure the Cauti-Landborn keep their promise. Send with them a Shaper, a powerful one to make those that do break their oath regret their mistakes...... Kal'm.... perhaps could do it. His Authority as a Tideshaper and in Attraction is second only to your own. D'humat could even suffice. His Tension is without equal amongst our kind..... if you yourself could leave the Isles none would defy your Authority would be most suited to the task." Adelya trailed off weakly. "Forgive me Lady. I should not speak of it..... I'm just a Seneschal it was not appropriate." "Would that I could serve my own people in this task." She sounded dejected but her eyes bespoke a certain sense of anticipation. "I shall do as you will Adelya. We'll send the Shaper. Your intuition is usually correct in these things." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.15 04:42:00 - [236] - Quote In Skadia, Deck of the Assail....... The reception for the returning members of the expedition to the Southern Oceans was one of joyous welcome made all the greater by the appearance of the sable haired Ancestors at the side of Sia'tri. Yet again thousands of Mur turned out on the harbourscape docks of the Port city which spanned the entirety of the vast bay in brightly coloured silken Maera and Aklae crowding around the Harbour Masters to gaze at the Artyee. She looked much older now than she had when she had left the Southern Continent the pathfinder reflected as they were transported through the city proper and out onto barges bound for the Mur Lake and Errecist, though this rapid ageing had not seemed to hinder any particular curiosity between her and several of the Assail's crew. If anything it had refined the beauty of the Artugian making her appear more refined, mature even in a manner several of the sailors described to be like Shuri'den'shalvys. They've never even seen Lady Shalvys, he thought bitterly, somewhat resentful K'lo had not chosen to visit him throughout the trip. His luck with the Artugian women seemed as bad as ever. The first had been married......to the Greatclaw, the second paid him no heed. He brooded silently until the barges passed from the city limits and began the journey up the Mur River eventually melting away as he was reminded of the beauty of his homeland. As they travelled he would explain to K'lo the significance of the flora and fauna, explaining the myths his people held, as well as the science behind their being. He was even fortunate to be able to point out a mating pair of Skaum, a particularly rare sight, which he amongst others began to sketch as a record since the the predatory reptiles were incredibly reclusive when they weren't in a Feeding Thrash. By the late afternoon then had passed into the Narrows, a high passage through the mountains surrounding the Mur Valley, filled with shallow warm water and devoid of wind as dappled light filtered through the branches of over arching trees clinging to the stark cliff faces. As they pressed into the Valley proper they readied their canoes for the final voyage. Here the air changed, cool and humid, to the point where within minutes the skin became damp and water beaded to fall in arcing trails across the skin. Sia'tri turned to K'lo as he paddled the lightweight vessel across the lake's glassy surface, schools of fish and Mur darting about below glancing up at them in their typical curious fashion. "This is our land Lady Nightstalker, what do you think of it? It is Kalya's jewel in the vast oceans of the world from which all Mur life would begin after the Long Dark or Endless Night. We are to arrive in the city within the hour and it shall be my honour, and an honour for me as well, to introduce you and your people to the Lady of Shalvys. Shuri'den'shalvys." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.16 00:17:00 - [237] - Quote In Skadia........the Coral Tower Having just drafted a second missive to the Cauti movement occupying the Southern Regions of Tal-Man Shuri'den'shalvys and her Seneschal Adelya were suddenly visited upon my Sephrena who had admittedly spent a great deal of time within the cloisters of the Tower. Since her performance at the Festival she'd spent every day learning to better play her instruments and sing with Songstresses in the lower halls while also serving as an intermediary and confidante to the sole Mur occupant of the spires reaches. "Lady Shalvys!" The young Mur's voice echoes up the sculpted steps of the spiral stair case. She sounded breathless as if she had run from the entire way. "Lady Shalvys! We have news from the expedition......It's Sia'tri. He's returned from the Southern Isles as the Master of the Expedition and has brought with him a Shorewalker!" Both women turned to her in an instant eyebrows raised curiously. News from the South Seas came in sporadic updates and as such the sudden appearance of Sia'tri and his guests was quite the cause for celebration. "Have you seen them, Young Thing?" Shuri'den'shalvys asked curiously taking a step down from he Throne, the slowly rising droplets of water seemed to falter slightly before coming to a complete halt in mid air. "These people? Who are they?" The young girl flushed slightly holding her lute before her. "I-I am not sure My Lady as I did not catch a glimpse of them as I passed them in the halls..... but the woman who was with Sia'tri was tall. Her skin was like ashes and her hair was like the moonlight. She is not like the Landborn it seems, has claws upon her hands, and like us does not bother with clothing. They call her Lady Nightstalker." "Pretty?" Adelya asked thoughtfully hefting her axe over one shoulder. "Bah..... I should not be here if she is. I shall see to the preparations for elements of the Fleet to transport out goods to the Cauti coastlines." ".......Yes." Sephrena admitted "But she looks tired and thin as if she is not really here with us." "Then bring them too us Little Thing. I will speak with the Lady Nightstalker once I have prepared myself here and quieted Tsh'ehlu." She nodded up to the spires of water still hanging in mid air which slowly reversed themselves and began to flow gently downwards to pool around the islands once more. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.21 11:31:00 - [238] - Quote In Skadia......the Coral Tower By the time K'lo had presented herself to Shuri'den'shlavys the Lady of the Seas had only just succeeded in quieting Tsh'ehlu to sleep, his hulking form curl beside the throne breaking the unnatural sense of stillness pervading the air of the Tower. Given that the Artugians seemed to forgo clothing in its entirely Shuri'den'shavlys so too forwent any form of Maera finding that in doing so she were more comfortable in this manner. As K'lo greeted Shuri'den'shalvys in the manner of her people, of which the Mur woman had not knowledge, she took a moment to asset her guest. She was indeed beautiful as Sephrena had said though in a foreign manner as a result of her hair and claws. Even the strange duality present in her voice held a particular timeless charm that bespoke a same similarities between Shuri'den'shalvys and her own kin. An inexplicable sense of difference that manifested as an air of Authority. An Attraction bond but ethereal and weakening. She was puzzled as K'lo skipped across the path of rocks between her own island and that of the throne in much the same way as a child might, despite her mature and exotic features. She scented the air. Heavy. Distant. Present. "And to you Lady Nightstalker. I beg those same strong winds carry you and yours to safe harbor as many times as the Oceans see fit, I am Shuri'den'shalvys for Shalvys-That-Was. I speak for my people and the Goddess as Sia'tri has spoken for me in your lands. If it please you Lady Nightstalker I would greet you in the ways of our people." She leaned in close lifting K'lo's chin with a delicate finger and placing her own forehead against the locks of moonlight hair and ashen skin so that their breath could exchange freely, lingering their for several moments that the ritual might be observed. For a moment she seemed content to pull away but rethought that and pulled K'lo in to brush her lips across those of the Artyee. She remained in that position for a several seconds. She shuddered once. Iridescent eyes snapped open suddenly. Fins flared in a submissive fashion. She pulled away even more puzzled. "Be you woman or spirit I suspect you shall find some kind of refuge in this Tower where you are named guest and Folk of the Land. Here the demands of the material world are not so great upon the spirit.....certainly not gone but lessened to some degree. But pray forgive me that I digress you are travel weary and have spent many days upon the oceans that you might seek passage to these lands. They are yours so long as you see fit Lady Nightstalker as am I and my kin. Speak and we would listen. Demand and we would offer. Desire and we would make reality." She paused, glanced down at Sia'tri whom returned a respectful nod as if to confirm her suspicions. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.27 01:12:00 - [239] - Quote In Skadia....... The Coral Tower. Sia'tri's sharp intake of breath was all that could be heard in the wake of K'lo's vanishing. The process had been as sudden as would have proved believable as her skin seemed to peel away and dissolve into the air around her leaving only the spectral golden form of an Artyee. And then she was gone, as if she never were, in a blinding flash of light which spilled out of the Coral Tower through the aperture of the shell-like spire. The Pathfinder blinked several times in disbelief his eyes quickly darting around the recessed alcoves of the throne room then back to the place where K'lo up until moments ago had stood in all her glory. Not a single piece of her remained, no bones, no claws, not even a single strand of liquid moonlight. His hand involuntarily slipped to the skull attached to his leather harness only serving to increase his sense of dread for it offered him no worlds of solace. He glanced up at Shuri'den'shalvys who regarded the empty air with a thoughtful look, his eyes pleading for an explanation. "Her spirit has departed our world." The Mur-woman said curiously, inner workings of her mind immediately drawn to scholarly pursuit of the unknown. "It seems the Attractions that bound her spirit to her form were worn thin and could not be maintained........ K'lo is a curious thing and not like any spirit we know. Perhaps she is an artificial spirit a collective will or desire made manifest. Regardless she may have left us but I feel she is not gone.....just absent." "But how do I explain this to Jon......The Greatclaw and leader of the Artugians?" "Precisely how I explained it to you Little-kin. Spare this Greatclaw no details. Remind him that K'lo has made a fine impression upon us and that we have no reason to lie to him of the nature of her passing." Sia'tri could only nod his acquiescence. With the Ancestor no longer a present in Skadia his responsibilities lay with his people in the Southern Oceans and with Jon. He only prayed to M'kke and her elder sister that the Greatclaw would not be wroth. His failure to return K'lo to her people upset him greatly. With the meeting concluded he made for Rhen'Ys swimming the River Run through the night with all haste, narrowly evading a small thrash of Skaum in the river waters now murky by night using the moon above as a sole point of reference. The Assail set sail the following morning for Artuga with a Tideshaper aboard to speed their passage as much as possible. In the Coral Tower...... after Sia'tri had left. "My Lady?" Sephrena mumbled, rather embarrassed as she looked on at Shuri'den'shalvys pacing across the small isle on which her throne rested. "What is it that you are so concerned about?" The older Mur-woman looked up fixing her iridescent gaze on the girl her face was flushed with a rare anticipation and with a wave of her hand a single visible line of attraction appeared between them pulling the girl into a warm but maternal embrace. "I am considering going to the Shore-walker lands myself to ensure the Oathword between our people and the Cauti is kept. I've not had the opportunity to freely weave my Authority in many years nor seen the Seas beyond the Isles. This will be exciting...." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.28 01:47:00 - [240] - Quote In Skadia......Off the Coast of Ahlar. "Mer'deen has summoned you Maelstom....she does not wish to wait for....." said a quiet voice from beyond the open door, a small youthful Mur poked he head around the corner. He flushed bright red when he noted Man'tiel and Tamarri'sen in the middle of a rather passionate embrace. "She can wait a few minutes..." the young Mur grumbled, retreating down the corridor. The crew of the Maelstrom and Man'tiel's fleet had been docked in the harbours of the temple city for the better part of a week now and the crew of the vessels had spent the bulk of their time between maintenance of the fleet and the pleasure gardens in the upper city. Man'tiel had taken the first opportunity he could to visit the Temple of Kalya but had been refused entry to see the High Priestess whose duties had kept her busy since the Festival almost three months earlier. His second port of call had been the much more reclusive Storm Conclave set into an exposed section of the sable mountain side which was little more than a series of wind swept gardens an open air baths filled with stormwater and salt spray from the oceans warmed by small heated pits warmed by Abrasion forces hidden below the ground. His offerings to Vinnetir were rich indeed, several Bowspirits, the blade of the Osmari Frigate Captain still coated with his own blood, and the young Paric Woman whom they had captured during their exploits. Tammari'sen and the other adepts had taken a perverse pleasure in escorting the woman into the shadowy depths of their temple and had no returned to him upon the Maelstrom for several days. He disposition said enough, that Man'tiel should not ask after her, though in the wake of their homecoming their relationship had been more passionate than ever. Some fifteen minutes after the appearance of the youthful message from the Temple Man'tiel stepped out onto the deck of the Maelstrom drapped in a heavy sea-spray longcoat, a characteristically Un-Mur-like raiment adopted to hide the lattice work of scars criss crossing his torso. "Let's be off with us boy." said Man'tiel in a terse voice. "I still have business here." "Business? What is more important that your responsibility to the High Priestess?" "You saw." That quietened the young man who flushed with embarrassment. He must have seen a dozen Gale seasons at best and still nearly two years before the maturing hormone rebalances of his adulthood. He was at a familiar age that Man'tiel remembered well. Limbo....not quite a child and not quite the adult but awkwardly trying to make sense of new found passions draw from a culture which knew nothing of modesty. The passed through the city proper and into the Temple District set back into the recessed caverns of the stark cliff face on the leeward side of the harbour. Such a stark contrast form the Storm Temples, with delicate marble columns untouched by the elements of sea and storm. Mer'deen received him in her Solar, a small private audience hall reserved for the High Priestess and her agents. She looked distinctively older, more worn, but prettier than he remembered. It was the same beginnings of the mature beauty he saw in Tammari'sen. "Your Radiance." He said, bowing slightly, feeling a satisfying twinge of pain from the several month old scars. "I trust that which found its way to your shores the Maelstom's winds have dispelled those who opposed you." "It has...... yes." She replied. Her voice sounded thin and the manner in which she reclined against the cushion upon a small couch expressed how tired she felt. "Those who opposed me have been seen to, either they have come to see the value of myself as Kalya's speaker or have been seen to. That being said Man'tiel I have another task for you." ......Several Days Later Shuri'den'shlavys certainly was an impressive woman and commanded a palpable air of authority that could not be explained to those outside of the Mur species. Standing upon the prow of the Maelstom looking out across the unnaturally flat oceans array before them Man'tiel could not help but think that Tammari'sen was the more beautiful of the two though he had to admit his bias on the matter. Their journey to Southern Tal-Man was one of absolute importance. The four warships that comprised his fleet flanked one of the enormous Thallassae vessels filled with trade good bound for the Southern Coasts. Much would understandable pass through into the Tal-Man lands to the North however the Harbour Master Dammel had insisted several caravans also pass through into Pataris to the East and the Blood Raider lands to the West. The Four warships would not only serve as escorts to the merchant fleet but would also remain in the bays as a constant reminder to the Cauti people that so long as Mur walked the land no betrayal would be tolerated. Meanwhile Man'tiel and some hand picked men would be escorting a number of caravans North and West into the Tal-Man and Osmarii controlled lands. Though slightly daunted by the nature of his work Man'tiel's fears had been allayed somewhat on the journey from the Isles. Shuri'den'shalvys was a Shaper like no other he'd ever met, many shared her talents but none approached her level. He felt more that she would be protecting him than the other way around. He was wrapped up in his thoughts long through the night, unable to sleep both due to his concerns and by a restless Tammari'sen who had insisted upon them, though as a guest and in no official capacity. Instead he had come up to the decks to look at the open expanses arrayed before and above him. His thoughts were disturbed by foot steps. Pale mottled skin under the moonlight, delicate features with iridescent eyes flickering, a faint luminescent about her form. "We shall arrive soon Captain Man'tiel." She said, breathless with anticipation. "And tomorrow we shall see if the word of the Shore-walkers word holds true." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.28 23:45:00 - [241] - Quote Southern Coasts of Tal-Man Escorted into the southernmost harbours of what was once a province of Greater Tal-Man the two hulking Thalassae dropped anchor off of the coast and under the watchful eyes of the warships in the harbour began to transfer their cargo across to the docks using small skiffs. Unlike the other three vessels the Maelstrom under instructions from Shuri'den'shalvys docked and began readying those whom would protect the caravans on their journey north. Hours after their arrival once the caravans had been loaded and a number of domesticated Phrsam had been transported ashore Man'tiel the crew of the Maelstrom took up defensive positions surrounding the caravans. Most of them wore traditional examples of loose fitting Mur scale armour with leather harnesses. Each Mur warrior carried an elegant curved Drowner's wave blade and a small water proofed pouch that appear heavily travel worn. Amongst them Man'tiel stood out in his heavy chitin plating with the massive Oarblade, Nan Sapwe, in hand appearing distinctly more regal to the eyes of the Shore-walkers than Shuri'den'shalvys who like the other merchant-mur eschewed clothes entirely. With all preparations completed they set off for the first of the Cauti-checkpoints. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.29 00:59:00 - [242] - Quote Artugia..... several miles South of Mar'Thal, the Hidden City The Assail had made good time across the vast Southern oceans that separated the continental drift of Artugia from the serene natural paradise of the Skadian Isles though despite this Sia'tri never felt at ease and spent the hours on board the vessel working upon the decks to distract himself. Several days after his departure, and unbeknownst to him at the same time as Shuri'den'shalvys arrived in South Tal-Man, the assail spied the familiar, rugged coastline of Artugia arriving some miles North of their intended landing in the small Mur settlement. Severe storms had blown them miles off course would cost the vessel hours before it came into safe harbour. This however benefited and after gathering him belonging and begging the Bowspirit of the vessel for strength he leapt over the balustrades and into the pristine tropical waters below. Hours later he came to the small beach upon which he had first discovered the Artugian peoples emerging from the waters close the beach amidst a group of Artyee and young children drying the flayed skins of the deceased in the salt and sun. He was relieved to she Shu'um amongst their number. She looked shocked at his sudden appearance and frowned as she noted the distressed look upon his face. "What has happened? Why have you returned so soon? What has gone amiss?" She demanded sharply, forgetting that as of his return the young pathfinder had re assumed his authority as expedition master. "K'lo...." He whispered weakly keeping his voice low so that the other Artugians would not hear. "...she is gone. She met with Shuri'den'shalvys.... then just vanished. I returned so that I could explain myself to Jon and beg his forgiveness for my failure." Shu'um's frown deepened. "What if he kills you Sia'tri?" The pathfinder shrugged and pressed on into the jungle where he found the winch system the Mur had rigged up to allow them access into the upper branches of the enormous trees which supported Mar'Thal. His ascent was pleasant. Given time his acceptance of the narrow catwalks and suspended pathways that was the city proper had become something he was almost as natural as swimming. From there he took the swiftest paths to the Throne upon which Jon traditionally sat. He was amazed to see what the Artugians had done with the city in his absence. It was as if they had taken the rudimentary winches the Mur had explained to them and replicated the technology on a massive scale creating rope ways deep into the jungle through the trees in a feat of engineering which defied Mur concepts of what was possible. He presented himself before Jon. Placing a hand over his heart and bowing. " Strong Winds Guide You Greatclaw. Forgive me for I have failed you and your kind." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.29 02:14:00 - [243] - Quote Jonny D Buelle wrote: ...Mar'Thal, the Grand Hall Jon rose to his feet as soon as he saw Sia'Tri, and a big smiled spread across his face. When Sia'tri spoke his smile faded and he looked confused. Jon bowed, with a hand over his heart, and then said, "Good fortune, friend Sia'tri. How have you failed me?" He sat down and began tapping one if the skulls with his claws. As he did, an Atrya from the Drishna tribe walked inside the hall and right up to the throne. He bent over, removed his hood, and whispered something into Jon's ear then walked out of the hall, flicking his hood back over his head as he did. Jon looked at Sia'tri. "K'lo did not return with you. Tell me what happened. Now." Even though Jon spoke calmly, the Artugians started to whisper amongst themselves. ...Mar'Thal, the Grand Hall The young Mur was silent for a while. Surrounded by Artugians he was attempting to find the words to explain what had happened, though it did not help that his own memories of the event had been clouded by both awe and fear during the journey across the oceans. When he raise his head the Artugians were staring and whispering amongst themselves and Jon had affixed him with a steely gaze. "She..... has gone Jon Greatclaw. With my own eyes I witnessed her cross the oceans as no other Artugians of her kind have before and stand at the zenith of the Coral Tower to entreat with our Lady Shuri'den'shalvys then vanish as though she never were...." He struggled for words. "It were as if her body were made ash upon the winds.....though none blow in the Tower Greatclaw. She shared a breath of life with K'lo.... and before our eyes she became a figure of light. Beautiful she was then...... and warm like the sun. Lady Shalvys is well versed with spirits and their natures....." Things seemed to flow easier now and a silence had fallen over the Main Hall as the Artugians paid heed to his narrative. "....and seemed to understand what had happened. To be direct it was that the Authorities..... the natural forces that bound K'lo's spirit had waned over time." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.29 04:08:00 - [244] - Quote ...Mar'Thal Sia'tri slumped to the ground with relief, collaspsing under his exoneration of guilt a weight off of his shoulders, a distinct look of shock and joy written openly across his features in the emotionally expressive manner typical of the Mur. His hand involuntarility reached up for the skull of Jon's ancestor tied to one of the loops of his harness that wrapped around his chest, tracing the socket of one eye with a finger. "Thank the Goddess...." He mumbled under his breath before breaking out into a laughter. "....I've not failed you.... Goddesses I thought you'd be livid with me, swam near half the distance between the Southern Settlement and Mar'Thal as fast as I could." He pushed himself up off of the floor using his spear as support. "It is wonderful to see the Isles once again but to return here feels as though I have come home." He wondered when he had started thinking of the Artugia as his home, the jungle continent had been less than accommodating to the ocean dwelling Mur, though despite this he loved the warm waters of the coasts and the humid climate. "But I have news for you from the Isles as I am sure you have news for me. Shuri'den'shalvys has gone North to Tal-Man.....the land of the Tall Ones herself and has taken with her four warships to ensure the Landborn keep their word. What news of Artuga? I trust Shu'um has continued to lead our people with honour and foster good relations?" Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.29 23:29:00 - [245] - Quote ..... Mar'Thal, the Hidden Village Sia'tri looked on with wonder at how quickly the village around him was changing and how quickly the Artugians themselves had adapted to the new technologies pursuing greater feats of construction and development now that they had been exposed to ship building, metal working, and even the winch system. It was rather awe inspiring to see a second level slowly forming above his head in the dense foliage of the trees, a concept most Mur was dismiss as ridiculous. As Jon showed him around he toyed with the notions of what the Artugans would become once they visited the Northern Continents and met with the Landborn peoples, of what they might achieve with the other item he had brought back to Artuga with him. Rather than dwell upon such fanciful thoughts he filed the thoughts away next to the warning Jon had given him about mentioning the Tal-Man within the city. Likely the other Mur already knew though it would still do well for those in the Southern settlements to be reminded of this aspect of protocol. "I thought she might impress you Greatclaw. Shu'um is a matron like no other. Fierce she can be when she means it.....I've no doubt you've seen her ordering the children about as though they were hers. Full glad am I that you approved." Out of the corner of his eye he saw Ria approaching and he shifted uncomfortably as she bowed to him in the Artugian way though the wording she used was somewhat different to that which he'd been taught. He'd thought time in the company of the Ancestor would have made the common Artyee look plain but instead it had done the opposite. He'd almost forgotten how affecting the intense red hue of their hair was. With his sense of turmoil fading he smiled despite himself. "My heart is grateful to have been returned to this place. I have long wished to see you....." He cursed himself internally. She was Jon's wife. "...two." he added on hastily. In Southern Tal-Man The line of caravans rumbled on from the check point with no trouble, the Cauti guardsmen offering the goods a cursory inspection and waving them on through the lines of riflemen. The rest of the caravans and guardsmen seemed rather pleased with the turn of events and they spread out into groups along the length of the formation talking amongst themselves as they wandered through the foreign landscape. Man'tiel could however not shake the idea that their passing had been almost too easy. On one hand it was more that he did not truly accept that the Cauti would keep their word and allow them safe passage North with food stuffs and textiles enough to clothe and feed and army, but perhaps it was instead his natural disposition. Rather than spread out like his crew he kept a disciplined pace alongside the caravan bearing Shuri'den'shavys who seemed enraptured by the simple act of driving the Phrsam of her laden carriage. It was a quee r observation to have made about a woman who could claim lineage to the ancient home of the Mur and claimed divine right to rule over the oceans of the world. They continued North following the roads towards the front lines. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.07.30 02:45:00 - [246] - Quote ....Mar'Thal. Sia'tri watched with a mixture of abject horror and curiousity as Jon turned away his scared back disappearing amongst the gracefully moving forms of the other Artya and Artyee leaving him alone with Ria. An uncomfortable silence established itself between them. Goddess only knew how awkward this situation was for the young Pathfinder who stood their weighting the potential outcomes of pursuing the fair Artyee standing next to him. He didn't believe being killed and having flayed alive would agree with him in the slightest....nor would it leave Jon with much of a raiment given that the colour of Mur skin typically faded to a dull grey some hours after death and his understand of Artugian protocol in regards to these things was minimal at best. His understanding of Shore-walker customs was that they adopted prudish ownership rituals during which indebted couples together in oddly mated pairs.....something so far cry from his own peoples free forming arrangements and bonding ceremonies. He glanced at Ria with a slight frown on his face. It's the bloody hair, he thought to himself, appreciating the red shimmer as sunlight glinted off of the crimson strands through the latticework of over arching branches, irresistible. "It has been long since we last spoke Ria. I am fain to admit that I am full pleased to be back in these waters and find myself poorly acclimatised to those of my homeland..... cold and no longer welcoming..... but I am speaking too much. How fare you Ria, is all well?" He glanced around quickly trying to determine if any of the other Artyee or Artya were listening to them before beckoning for her to follow him along one of the tree top walkways. He noted in the way her oriented himself to her position that his attraction to her was rather more tangible that it had been when they had first met upon the beach. He would speak with honestly with Jon later and explain himself to the Greatclaw. He swallowed involuntarily not particularly relishing the prospect. "I....must also admit I missed you most of all Ria. The days were rather lonely without your company." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.02 22:19:00 - [247] - Quote Middle Tal-Man..... Cauti-Tal-Man Frontlines..... Days had passed since the small column consisting in equal parts and eclectic mix of trades-Mur and scale armoured Skadii-an's had set forth from the peaceful Southern Harbours and in that time Shuri'den'shalvys had been exposed to a brave, new world. Of course much of it's properties were known to her scholarly mind however this paled in comparison with truly experiencing what it was to be a part of it. Until this point her experiences with this world had been positive her disposition became one of abject horror and revulsion for the front lines in the war between the Cauti and Tal-Man was Death. Their path had led them North through rolling farmlands where the conflicts had not yet reached. Verdant fields had seemed in abundance, vast swathes of land that would yield impressive harvests that would stand unmatched by the Isles for many years to come, around which very modern, albeit scattered settlements could be found. Roads too seemed well maintained cutting through the hills, rivers, and forests allowing them direct passage North. Unlike the Mur the Tal-Man did not seem to accept nature for what it was and change their paths to suit the land. Perhaps this mindset, she considered one evening as their company rested at the crook of a shallow, murky river, was a result of their enormous stature reminding her of both the Ambassador Grey and the anatomical drawings her scribes had taken of his people. On the third day of their journey this evanescent peace was shattered by the bitter realities of the ensuing conflicts. This war was like a scar on the land, deep, a lifeless grey expanse where acrid clouds of pitch dark smoke marred the skies in a malignant haze. The skeletal remains of several small settlements could be seen from the rise upon which the caravan had first crested at dawn no exposed in a rancorous candor the the Mur themselves found a fundamentally repulsive aesthetic that both physically and emotionally affected them. From the slight rise above the field the Mur could discern two disciplined formations of tents amidst miles of barbed metal fortifications. Those to the north far dwarfed in size and number those of to the Sourth and spread out across the horizon in sprawling individual encampments whereas those to the South which Shuri'den'shalvys rather sensibly assumed belonged to the Cauti rebels clustered around one another almost desperately in the shadows of the walls. She'd almost not seen the squat bulk of the fortress through the the heavy smoke shroud from the camp-fires and forge-works below. It's walls were stark and sloped on sheer angles with thick stone parapets supported by the reassuring weight of drum towers so windswept not a single rough stop remained on the fortresses windward side to provide a foot hold for the aggressors. It was both an awe inspiring example of the Tal-Man people capacity for war but an ugly reminder of this war that would last generations. A reminder that already was looking battle scared as the North-Western wall had collapsed into rubble and dust under a Tal-Man barrage forming a rough and rudimentary example of a ramp upon which hundreds of forms swarmed to repair the damage. Amidst this scene of destruction and death the ponderous rumblings of the Mur-folk's Phrsam draw carriages and the unique clattering of naturally formed chitin shells scraping across rock and stone could be hear. The participants in the trade mission looked upon the twisted vista with a growing sense of horror and clutched at their weapons keeping them readied with watchful eyes. The flood plain before them was cut in twain by a single river across which vanguard elements of the Tal-Man had crossed via twin bridges separated by three miles of siege works and redoubts leaving naught but a mile of rotting corpses, tattered banners, and spent cannon shot between their positions and the Cauti at the front. The remaining bulk of the Tal-Man forces seemed to have taken up positions further beyond the river in a secondary defensive formation. Within two hours of their arrival on the Plains they had made their way to the forward Cauti encampment in the shadow of the fortresses might walls and passed into the main check point and were stopped to wait upon the Cauti Commander. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.04 11:58:00 - [248] - Quote ......Mar'Thal, The Blooming City Under the slowly blooming vines Sia'tri could not help but admire the young Artyee who gracefully matched his pace along the serpentine catwalks suspended high above the canopy, concealed from the eyes of those who walked the jungle floors. As Jon had left them alone, from some yet unknown reason, the young pathfinder could not help but that the Artugian and the Goddess above for the opportunity to pursue the object of her new found affections so freely. However Ria's question posed a particularly complex question that Sia'tri was not sure he had the ability to explain. The crimson haired woman seemed to be preoccupied with the twisting of her own hair around a tapered claw, or perhaps it was something over her shoulder however the way she oriented herself seemed to indicate she was paying a modicum of interest in what he had to say. He sighed. The Artugians despite their appearance possessed a keeness of mind when it came to understanding the complexities of concepts far beyond their cultural perspectives and like the Greatclaw he suspected that dozens of Artugians likely had attained an intimate understanding of his people's beliefs. "My people....and I believe in this thing. My species are not a long lived race like those of the Shore-walkers, our thoughts, our feelings, and our passions are exposed for all to see. To my people you speak of a Bonding, which for them means something more than courtship.... it is like exposing the last part of yourself that cannot be seen. Your pattern..... or place in Whorl." He explained, rather embarrassed half tracing half gesturing to the unique patterns of color about his waist, a vibrant mixture of turquoise more green than blue. "When two Mur choose one another as mates many refuse to undergo the bond. It can be disturbing and profoundly shocking for them to realise their patterns are not mirrored. But to answer your question, yes we believe all things are connected. That includes the souls of the Mur-Folk and other Folks....especially your people." As he finished speaking he realized that the path through the boughs had arced in a full circle leading them back to where they had stood not moments before under the myriad colours of the orchids and wildflowers which burst to life in colours Sia'tri had never thought possible. He glanced down at Ria for a second time with the same longing as he had when they had first met upon the beach though back then he'd sought to understand her species , now instead he sought little else but to be with her.. Possessed of an inspiration of the same Whorl blessed kind that he had upon that beach of fate he pulled several lengths of the blooming vines from overhead severing their connections to the surrounding trees with sharp twists and began to weave them together. In minutes he had produced a waved band of stiff vines that intricately wove in and out of one another with tiny orchids set in place like gemstones. When the band was completed he presented it too her, taking her wrist gently and carefully sliding the band over the poisoned tips of her claws where it hung loosely. He noticed however that the tips of his finger left a noticeable sheen upon her skin where he had touched her. The oil that aqueous layer of natural oils that formed on the surface of Mur skin was imperceptible to his own people and himself. He apologized quickly hoping he hadn't spoiled the moment. "Why do you ask Ria? What does this mean for you?" Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.04 22:29:00 - [249] - Quote ..... Mar'Thal, the Blooming City "I wish it with all that I am Ria." He murmured rather vexed by how shy and meek his voice sounded through the heavy beating of his heart. A broad smile lit up the Sia'tri's face as Ria spoke the words he had wanted to hear for many months. He placed his own hand over hers pressing it against his cheek tracing the base of the long knife like claws, careful not to cut himself on their razor edges. He'd hear much of the venom in claws of the Artyee, in most cases a virulent biological toxin, in others a powerful aphrodisiac. "But to be fair I rather like your claws as they way they look now. Is there nothing I can do to make it known we are together? You people have rituals for this no? I have no twin.... and I rather myself perish than slay your kin or mine..... but I could bring you such stones from the volcano's rim and the ocean floor as no Artugian has seen and wait for you in the tidal pools where we first met." He sighed, noting slightly how his polymorphic body reacted to both the good news and to Ria, fins involuntarily flaring and twitching with excitement at the prospect. "Would you have me then?" ((Waiting on the Cauti in the warcamps to talk to Shuri'den'shalvys, tempting to send Kal'm with the Osmarii to the front lines to wait the Mur caravan which I might just do, and Skadia and Kysmal are on autopilot.)) Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.06 01:12:00 - [250] - Quote .... Mar'Thal, Blooming City As Ria turned to leave Sia'tri took his opportunity to catch up with the Greatclaw before the Great Leader could return to the preparations for the festivities. It seemed that much like the Mur the Artugians also had traditions that celebrated nature in its myriad forms from simple turns of the seasons to wondrous events like the sudden blooming of the vine-flowers. "Jon Greatclaw." He called out as the Artya made for another group of Artyee, perhaps looking for one to volunteer her venom, catching up to him with the strange loping gait of a Mur far from the oceans. He offered the Artugian a conspiratorial look that said something akin to 'you could have told me'. "Thank you Jon, your blessing of us means a great deal to me..... and I understand that you two must still love one another deeply. I promise you though I may not be Artugian..... yet I will offer Ria all of the things one of your people would. Which brings me to my purpose." His expression shifted through several emotions, serious, worry, then determination. "Your people climb to the mouth of the volcano and bring back a stone to show their devotion to their partner..... I however have little time if I am to complete the ritual's preparations. I must know if there is a passage to a river or the ocean nearby. I leave as soon as I know. There was a slightly familiar sound of flat oar-like feet behind him and he turned to see Shu'um and two other Mur carring a large bundle between them, concerned looks upon their faces, as all three pairs of eyes flicking up to the bloody palm print on his forehead. "Sia'tri!" her voice was strident, unable to belie the concern in her voice. "We saw the blooms and came from the beach. Ria passed us, she said she would wait for you by the tidal pools. You haven't wronged the Great Leader.....have you? Tell me you haven't tried to Bond with his wife behind his back and he has not shed you blood in anger." She turned to Jon who seemed amused, then looked back to Sia'tri. "No, and calm yourselves." He explained addressing the two women and their male partner. "I have been given Jon's blessing that Ria and I might unite our souls..... if his words sway the elders I am to be made an Artya myself. I am preparing to leave shortly to gather my stone from the mouth of the mountains fire." For a moment the Mur were silent. The two behind Shu'um put down the bundle gently before all three let out whoops of joy jumping high into the air, stamping their feet against the wood in short rhythmic dances. Mid way through the display the two Mur pulled the Greatclaw and Sia'tri into the dance however Shu'um took the pathfinder aside clasping his hands to her chest. "I am proud of you Sia'tri. You have finally chosen to give offer another your heart of hearts. I hope that your bonding is as looking in the glassy waters of our home. Ria is a beautiful woman......even though her hips will not bear you the strongest sons and daughters I have no doubt you will find joy in one another." "Thank you." He replied in a husky voice, threatening to break. "Thank you Shu'um, thank you again my Mem'sapwe, my mother-I-have-chosen." A single tear rolled down her cheek as she smiled and embraced him warmly pulling back to inspect him, adjusting his harness ensuring that none of the buckles were loose. She then turned to Jon with a grateful expression. "And to you Mem'shah and Greatclaw, chosen son. If you are to leave on this task we have something for you from Shuri'den'shalvys.... but I digress. If my chosen-son has asked a boon of you Jon I will see anything done that you grant it." Behind them the two other Mur appeared to be discussing what was happening with knowing smiles on their faces even as they danced and spun in circles pausing only when the slapping of their feet upon the wood became too loud. Sia'tri could not hear the specifics of their conversation but was able to glean some of the gossip being exchanged, things concerning Jon's reception in the settlements now that he was unbounded, the flower blooms, and something rather provocative about Shu'um's promise. He chuckled and ignored them listening intently to Jon. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.06 01:56:00 - [251] - Quote ..... Burtgun, Capitol of Osmarium. Given a few more minutes Kal'm had recovered some of the composure lost by the sudden appearance of Mur warriors in the harbour and had found the relaxing shape of a cushioned chair pressed up against one of the walls beneath a majestic tapestry depicting the Queen's personal heraldry. Rather than worry about the issues at hand he'd taken to rather mischievously using his Authorities upon the two stationary guardsmen protecting the room pulling at the tassels, helmet, and any exposed fabrics with the invisible Attractions and Repulsions masking the nature of the forces as particularly strong gusts of wind. A sudden screeching sound shocked him out of of his machinations momentarily causing him to lose control of his Authorities. Behind him by the door to the antechamber one of the guardsmen shot twenty feet into the air. Though it were less so that he rose and so that he feel, her perceptions of up and down being reversed and an instant, his weapons slipping from his hands and falling into the ceiling where they clattered against the vaulted surface before coming to a stop. "Bloody fool of a Mur." He cursed himself as he lowered the guardsman gentle to the ground leaving his comrade to support him as he retched up the vestiges of his lunch onto the carpeted floor. He began to apologise profusely. The heavy beating of enormous wings announced the appearance of Sieg. The grand Skadii-an seahawk let loose a piecing cry and dove through one of the open windows in a shower of feathers and cries from the minor nobility wandering the halls. He soared over to Kal'm and settled upon his shoulder naturally taking care not to score wounds upon Kal'm's fins with his talons. It wasn't much but at least he wouldn't have to wait alone. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.07 01:48:00 - [252] - Quote .....Burtgun, Capitol of Osmarium. Granted his audience the diplomatic envoy from the island nation strode confidently into throne room of the Osmarii Queen looking almost majestic with Sieg perched on and extended arm. As he passed he nodded respectfully to those nobles and ladies of the court bearing the highest ranks as well as those with whom he was most familiar, before making a respectful bow and then adopting a parade stance before the Queen with his chin raised. At this point Sieg took wing and soared up into the alcoves of the hall where he took a position on volute of one of a nearby pillar, head jerking back and forth sporadically as he eyed those assembled below. "Lady Fairwinds." He addressed her with the formal title his people often bestowed on dignitaries, this for the fairness of his skin, her hair, and the seafaring nature of her people. "I bring tidings from the Isles and I come to explain the Mur-Folk and their actions so there be no ill will between us." He cleared his throat loudly broadcasting his voice so that all could hear his words. "My Queen by now news must have reached you ears that a warship for the Isles has anchored itself off the bay. I come to allay the fears of all those present, this is not the end of relations between our peoples, we mean no harm. Seneschal Adelya, the first confidante to Lady Shuri'den'shalvys has in desperation dispatched warriors to the main land. She wishes permission to have me lead them to the border zone between you lands and the Cauti to receive the Lady Shuri'den'shalvys who has chosen to walk your lands for the first time and ensure the Cauti keep their word to us. Five hundred of my kin stand ready to march from the bay and it is like that five hundred more shall arrive off your northern coasts within the day, if given leave we promise to keep the peace of your lands and shall withdraw within the month. If it is not given than we shall have no choice to respectfully capitulate with your commands." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.09 20:40:00 - [253] - Quote (( Pending Post.....)) Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.09 23:10:00 - [254] - Quote ...... The Slopes of Margha Sia'tri loped down the rocky mountain side of the Fire Mountain following the narrow and winding trail the Ohk had indicated to him some minutes before the two had parted ways. The sun was low on the horizon casting a deep ochre glow across the landscape, which even the Mur had to agree was a wondrous sight indeed. A fiery light seemed to reflect off of the clouds and canopy alike leaving the skies lit radiant in a matter beyond words as if the world, like the hidden city, had decided itself it were time to bloom. Ohk had been right. The hidden passage down the side of the mountain had been the shortest route to the ocean he could have followed leading down the eastern face of the basalt structure down into what appeared to be a shallow river inlet leading out into a cove some miles down stream. From his position on the hill the Mur could see that no gnarled mangrove roots twisted through the river bed to conceal predators, nor did there appear to be any water falls or blockages in the river. Assuming he was swift and careful he could make the tidal pools by sun down. The thought disturbed him greatly. He was rather understandably nervous. If Ria had reconsidered her feelings in his absence he wasn't sure what he would do. He stopped suddenly looking down at the tiny geode in his palm, it didn't really seem like enough. The Artugian people were intensely practical people and he remained unsure if the trial was one of strength that would see him bring one of the heavy igneous stones to the ocean, or one of aesthetics. "What are you doing Friend Sia'tri!" Shouted Ohk, hurtling down the mountain path some two dozen metres above him, graceful movements clear against the stark cliff-side. "No time! One of the Sea must go back to Tidal Pools! Take your pretty rock..... maybe send a boat for me.... yes send boat, don't forget." He over took Sia'tri a few moments later beckoning for the Mur to follow leading him down the volcanic path and to the river bank. Without hesitation the Mur threw himself into the cool waters sighing with relief as they calmed the twinges of pain from his raw and burnt skin. He left Ohk to follow him up the river to the small cover propelling himself through the water with powerful strokes of his spade like feet and hands building up a momentum that his kind could not hope to match on land or be matched in water. He knew as soon as he reached the ocean, the second opaque set of eyelids slipped into position protecting his eyes, and the familiar senation as salt was absorbed into and beneath the aqueous oil layer bringing back the lustrous sheen t his skin. He skirted the coast line keeping close to the shore amongst the kelp and reefs out of the searching eyes of predatory creatures darting rapidly to and fro, fins flaring with anticipation. As he swum the golden sky faded into night above his head, now a violet hue as the last vestiges of sunlight peeked over the horizon. It was the familiar shape of the bay that let him know at last that he had arrived. The shallow curvature of the cliffs, soft sable sands as they angled steeply up to the beach, and the rough formations of the tide pools carved from slabs of granite cliffs worn down over hundreds of years. His nervousness however got the better of him as he entered the shallows, lying face down just beneath the surface. He flicked his eyes up to check of Ria was there though the evening was now dark and through the gently rolling waves he could make out little of the surface world. He traced a thumb over the geode watching as wispy trails of his blood came loose and dissipated into the waves, the small crimson crystals reflecting his face in a thousand facets. He rose quietly and stepped up onto the beach looking for Ria unsure of what he was going to find. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.10 22:53:00 - [255] - Quote ...Tidal Pools of Artuga Head cocked in confusion Sia'tri stepped up out of the shallows and onto the beach sniffing at the air as if puzzled by the sudden appearance of the Artugian villagers and a few Mur on the outer edges of the procession watching from the line of trees. He drew the two halves of the geode, forcing them together so that they would fit within the palm of his hand. Fine grains of sand clung to the soles of his bare feet as he loped up the beach gaining the section of the tidal pools where Ria and Jon stood. Sia'tri had not seen either garbed in this manner before, both wearing a sash composed of the skulls of their Ancestors about their chests. Ria in typical fashion wore aught else and remained as pleasing to the eye as ever if not more so for the way her crimson red hair had been braided over one shoulder, while Jon on the other hand appeared regal in an exotic kind of way with his crown and intricately carved stave. "Wife-to-be....and Great-Leader-to-be..." He called out to them stalking up the shore and stepping delicately into the Tidal Pools so as not to disturb a number of skittering crustaceans pool dwellers, looking intense. Dark colourations on his skin indicated a number of burns where the oil from his skin had run painfully though already the oily layer had re-established itself and cool ocean water was trapped within the layer soothing the disfigurements. " You look beautiful Ria....." He said tracing the braid tenderly with a finger. From somewhere in the crowd the familiar and strident sound of Shu'um coughing loudly for him to get on with it could be heard. Sia'tri flushed.....about as much as a Mur could.... before turning to Jon and the Elder's placing his hand on his over his heart and bowing to each one in turn offering them the formal address. "May Strong Winds bring you good fortune." To Jon he whispered. "Thank you Greatclaw, my Great-Leader of Artugia as Shuri'den'shlavys is of the Isles, for all you have done. I shall never forget........I am forgetting something aren't I?.... Oh Goddess! Ohk will be sitting alone a few miles down the coast waiting for someone to collect him, he asked for me to let you know." When it was Ria's turn he added "....Wife-to-be. You look as lovely as Hina herself. Please accept this and know my feelings for you." He pressed the joined halves of the fist sized rock into her hand with a grin, waiting to see what her reaction would be. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.11 02:35:00 - [256] - Quote .....The Frontline Cauti Warcamps As the last of the laden caravans slowed to a halt in the shadow of the captured Tal-Man fortress Shuri'den'shlavys could not help but shiver under the dark and foreboding sense of apprehension as they neared the walls. Man'tiel lead the convoy glowering at any of the Cauti soldiers who stepped to close to inspect the cargo the massive Oar Blade Nan Sapwe supported in a menacing fashion on one chitin-plated shoulder. As Shuri'den'shalvys slipped down from her seat, leaving the reins to the carts two hulking Phrsam tucked neatly out of reach of the soldiers, she took stock of the warcamps. The Cauti camps seemed to have a great deal more order to them than they had appeared to from upon the rise overlooking the flood plain. Hundreds of small compact tents and constructed fortifications comprise the main bulk of the camps housing the soldiers in barrack sized groupings extending out to the far western side of the defensive lines. Toward the east ironworks and medical stations pressed up against the walls of the stark fortress as if clamouring for its protection. Here modern rifles were stacked in neat rows with a trained precision, fresh forged and gleaming in the afternoon light, a stark contrast to the veiled rows of Cauti dead and wounded, their white shrouds stained with blood and filth, silent amidst the shrieks and lamentations of the wounded and distraught alike. A single road cut through the war camps progressing to the North through the No Man' Land and the Tal-Man lines extending past the jagged ring of steel and trench works encapsulating the camp. Their progress had been halted at the Northern Check Point by guardsmen who refused them passage any further until the fortresses Commander had been notified of their presence and intentions. This had been some half and hour past and the Mur were becoming restless as the passing Cauti soldiers eyed them. Few soldiers seemed to care about their presence, others regarded them with suspicion. The Mur learned little of the fortress Commander from the assembled Cauti saving his name, Kalimat, and that he purportedly had some distinguished career as a siege tactician. Tired of waiting Shuri'den'shalvys, nodding for Man'tiel to follow her, and strode up to the gates of the fortress where several more guardsmen barred her path. "We want to see Commander Kalimat. Now." The Mur woman demanded her voice cool and impassive. "We were told your group had honour. Allow us passage." The guardsmen looked incredulous for a moment then burst out laughing amongst themselves. "Commander Kalimat don't take orders from you fish *****. His work is more important. Come back later." "You don't know what you are saying Shore-walker. I should cut your...." Man'tiel growled aggressively from within his helm stopping only because Shuri'den raised a mottled hand. "Pray you then tell him that the Skadii-an convoy has arrived and it's Mistress would like to speak with him." She said calmly. "You deaf? No one gets to see Kalimat until his inspections are done. ** off." Said one, a tall Parian. "That was rude. We should let 'er in can't do not harm" This time a Tal-Man. "Ain't no one gets to see the Commander till his inspection is done." Another Parian. "They must wait." A single flash of irritation passed Shuri'den'shalvys's features and the first of these men suddenly found his sense of direction shift on its axis. Down suddenly became the wall to his right and he fell hard against it unable to move against a powerful Repulsion Authority. The next two flew forty feet into the air grasping at the portcullis screaming as some unseen force continued to pull them upwards. Man'tiel barged past the other two unceremoniously jamming a bony armour plate into the face plate of one who looked about the raise the alarm. The pair them continued nonchalantly into the keep the female Shaper calling out for Commander Kalimat leaving the remaining gate keeper stunned. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.11 04:36:00 - [257] - Quote ..... Kalimat's Redoubt "Your guardsmen were allowed to keep their honour" Shuri'den'shalvys replied simply as if it were and explanation staring directly into the eyes of the Paric commander. "The missive from your leaders claimed we would have free passage. They offered it to us after some discussion but I understand they were simply doing their duty. No harm and no ill will between us remains to exist." Behind her Man'tiel whistled approvingly and began to chuckle. He muttered something that sounded a lot like ' you saucy fish-back' and began grumbling to himself when his helmet cause his voice to echo slightly enough to make the statement audible. She ignored him. "What is to stop us from leaving this place Commander Stonewarden?" She asked with a measured politeness, glancing around the fortress and armoured men and women from almost a half dozen species quickly began to form up in defensive positions along the walls and at the gates, pouring into the block houses with crates of shot and powder in hand. The main keep of the square set fortification was less than impressive to look upon, nothing but a simple set of interconnected courtyards around a final drum bastion allowing fire across the exposed upper walls and lower gate houses. Barricades had been set up facing the gates proper and dozens of men and women now hunkered down behind makeshift cover whispering prayers to their gods or perhaps exhortations to the unshakable Commander. Warriors had drilled upon the stones of this the fortress for hundreds of years before the occupying Cauti had been but a mere concept, the sense of martial tradition was evident in it's Spartan aesthetic. Nor was it lost on the defenders who seemed to respect the proud history. A small moat surrounded the start windswept walls, impervious to scaling without specialised climbing equipment or the powerful grip afforded the Tal-Man by their specialised gauntlets. Low against the structure of the wall several small rusted grates served to expel the waste water and product of the fortress and the iron works. The moat had once served as a water source to the fortress, having been at one point supplied by the River to the North though the Tal-Man besieging them had long since dammed the flow of water and the toxic run off form the forges below the walls had polluted the waters rendering them foul and undrinkable. Steep steps cut into the stone walls provided access to the walls and parapets lined with myriad examples of cannon and bombard drawn from the castles crumbling stores and refurbished for use. Some were the large bore Tal-Mani cannon secured during the occupation of the southlands while others apparently had come from plundered Paric or Osmarii caches along the border provinces. Despite the age of the weaponry the massing of it in one central fortification with the ordinance the scrambling soldiers were carting up into their positions would ensure that the bastion would be hard won. It's primary weakness remained the section of collapsed wall on its North-Western Face. There the drum tower had collapsed under heavy bombardment, the sheer force of the high explosive Tal-Mani ammunition shattering the windswept face and crumbling the once noble defences to aught but dust. Such as it was the greater part of the tower had collapsed down across the moat providing access to the upper defences though it appeared footing would be poor judging from how the nearby Cauti soldiers took special care to avoid tripping on the rubble. Having quickly surveyed the Fortress, admittedly knowing little and less about the art of siegecraft, Shuri'den'shlavys turned back to Kalimat as he began to walk away. "What of my people? Those outside the fortress? I'll not have them left out there to be killed. Moreover what guarantee's do we have both from you and from your enemies. Surely....." She cut off abruptly as something she could not quite place entered the range of her sensory perception. A humming. No. More a whining, growing louder with each passing second. It was a piercing and uncomfortable noise that made her fins twitch uncomfortably. Beside her Man'tiel grunted, recognising the familiar sounds of distance cannon fire. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.20 01:55:00 - [258] - Quote RESERVED AND BUMP! Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 20	Posted - 2015.08.26 03:21:00 - [259] - Quote Because I need more space. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.10.04 06:12:00 - [260] - Quote Once upon a time there was a Siege..... Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.10.04 06:13:00 - [261] - Quote Lots of people died and this is a placeholder. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.10.12 00:24:00 - [262] - Quote ((lol I've been RPing in EVE so much my initial instinct was to type /emote to denote an action. )) River Ways Far to the West of Burtgun Mur armies never marched. It was a simple and irreconcilable difference between Kal'm people and that of the Shorewalkers, they simply swam. No matter the distance, no matter the conditions they swam keeping themselves just below the surface their fins splayed out gently piercing the surface of the water. It was granted of course that the Osmarii were different than the other Shorewalkers in that they had opened themselves to the oceans and commanded a great respected amongst the Mur, and therefore universally thought that of all the peoples of the continent that they would understand this ideal. They were landborn, possessed of the round feet and unwebbed hands that tilled the lands, but possessed of that same stuff that drove the Mur to the seas. Still as the small Mur force moved ever one wards Kal'm could not help but muse upon the nature of his new position as a military commander. He still thought like a politician. Carethought dictated the functions of this mind too greatly. Warthought would have to follow if the distasteful concept of conflict became a reality. They kept to the river ways following the avenues West for miles each day occasionally passing close to smaller settlements whose people looked upon the strange aquatic peoples of the Skadian Isles with both a mixture of fear and curiosity. Perhaps it were so that few enough of those humans who lived inland had even heard rumours of his kin and continued to believe that the world was the sole province of humanity. The camped in the shallow sections of the river, unwilling to have his men leave the river ways saving of course to query villagers and passing merchants for directions towards the Tal-Mani border where Coenwulf had successfully laid siege to a castle and seized it back from the encroaching Cauti forces. Sleep he often found was hard to come by when the company halted one evening close to the border zone. Warriors immediately fanned out to the river banks and set about tending their weapons and evening meals at his command. Despite how accommodating the river ways were he could not quite escape and implacable sense of dread. The Mur had not ever witnessed, let alone participated in, a modern conflict in the history of their species....and he was expected to be the first of his kin to lead men in a warzone? He tore his mind away from the prospect of days to come and reflected quietly on the day that had been. Humans.... perhaps more specifically this species, at least, were amusing. His cohort had been making fair headway West until they had encountered a series of well maintained flood gates as part of a moderately sized township which he ordered his forces to bypass. It hadn't much occurred to him from below the surface that the river way had in fact cut directly through the centre of the commune until he had launched himself from the waters and found himself staring at a half dozen utterly horrified Osmarii bargemen propelled 10 feet into the air by powerful kicks of his feet. As the bulk of his company passed, some 300 Mur soldiers over the course of an hour, they attracted quite the crowd who timidly hid behind the closest of the buildings perhaps waiting to see what the Mur. Hoping to allay their fears Kal'm took to the river bank trying to explain to them with his modest grasp of the human tongue that they meant not harm and that the Fairwind Queen herself had blessed their passing. After twenty minutes several villages approached with what appeared to be a basket of fish, several silver trinkets, and other oddities almost as if they were presenting an offering to the blue skinned Mur. He'd always remember the way a young girl had approached, mimicking her elders with a small chain of white flower which often appeared in the fields presenting it to him with the simple phrase. "For the river demons, to make you more pretty." The look of horror that had spread across the faces of the assembled humans was something he would never forget and he accepted the chain barely controlling his laughter before leaving. He stifled another guffaw dismissing the advances of one of his officers who seemed curious. Their party would make the border tomorrow and ideally would seek out Coenwulf before proceeding toward the Tal-Mani front. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.10.14 01:25:00 - [263] - Quote Near the Outskirts of Coenwulf's Warcamp........... The Mur rose early the following day and begun the final stages of their approach to the border zone before the sun could rise over the rolling Osmarii plains. They kept to the quiet and unused river ways as best they could skirting the human settlements each instinctive kick of their webbed feet driving Kal'm and his men ever west ward. In a matter of hours they had pressed beyond the reaches of civilised lands where upon the only humans their careful scouts could descry from the river banks were those, unthinkably, clad in steel and chain and armed with rifle, pike, and sword. Patrols came more frequently, even mounted soldier on those odd creatures with the long muzzles these humans called horses, and his despite their best efforts in time the Mur were noticed beneath the surface. Kal'm pushed himself up onto a nearby river bank where he greeted an unamused and particularly grizzled looking soldier in chainmail with a steel cap. A pike rested over one shoulder in a casual manner indicating he was a career soldier while the man's tabard was emblazoned with a crest the Mur recognised as Coenwulf's sigil. "Hail. Queen Fairwinds.... your Queen Aeschild gave us leave to pass through these lands. We seek the Tal-Mani Border, are we close?" He said politely. Osmarii seemed to like politeness, yet another reason the Mur found them so agreeable. The man said nothing, just gestured for another to a soldier at the crest of the rise, instead he seemed to be chewing on something dark which he spat into the river. "Taciturn fellow aren't you?" The man simply nodded. "You command these men I assume? You look like a warrior, we ne-..." That seemed to amuse the soldier to no end as guttural laughter slipped from between his lips causing him to double over using the polearm as a support. "No son.... I'm not a Captain." His response in a heavily accented voice, captain sounded more like cap'un, despite that he was rather eloquent for a soldier. "He's oe'r yon ridge in a bloody panic thinking we was being invaded by you Merfolk types. We, that is the proper soldiers an' I, told him more like than not it was nothing but he sent runners back to camp with word to come to arms. You aren't invading are ya?" The Mur shook his head slowly trying to convey how earnest he was that they were not doing anything of the sort..... besides what in the Goddess name was a Merfolk anyway? "Will you Fishb..... that is you fine folk be needing a guard while ye head to the main camps?" He said with a yawn taking a small wrapped package from a pouch at his waist. He then proceeded to chew on the dark, rubbery looking contents with all the vigour of a life long habit. "Anything to get me and Yake off guard duty Your Blueness." For a second Kal'm, Shaper of Authorities, Diplomat to the Queen Fairwinds, and Commander of the Mur's first army in nearly a decade didn't have a response, quip or otherwise. Human's were unique creatures indeed. Kal'm made a sharp gesture directed at the water and thirty feet down the embankment Mur rose in ranks of six pushing themselves clear of the waters. They marched up the embankment and out onto the plains forming ranks much to the amusement of the surrounding humans. "You can take me to Lord Coenwulf can't you?" He asked curiously, seriously doubting the man. "Course we can." The trip to the camps took a little under half and hour. As Kal'm and his men passed through the outer guard posts they encountered steely gazes from their human counter parts, the kind the Mur diplomat expected were the product of having survived a real war. The kind that were wary of armed soldiers being carelessly led through their camps, and especially so soldiers who didn't wear the same uniform. In time however the expressions of the humans they passed changed from a mild distrust to curiosity as the shore walkers finally began to look at the utterly alien Mur armament. The glittering sheets of scale they instantly recognised however the chitinous shields, heavy broad blades weapons, and lack of rifles seemed to amuse many of them. The grizzled veteran and the more youthful Yake were quickly removed as the Mur escort and sent back to guarding the rivers, much to their chagrin. Instead soldier in burnished plate and great helms took their places directing them to their Lord's quarters. At the entrance to an enormous war tent they demanded his disarm before proceeding, something Kal'm was more than happy to do. He even took the time to remove his armour and change into silky Aklae trousers and the traditional accompanying mantle much to the discomfort of the Osmarii around him. Only after having done so and being searched by the guards was he allowed to enter the tents and meet Coenwulf. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.10.19 03:21:00 - [264] - Quote Coenwulf's Tent on the path towards the fortress of Kalnu, a Cauti-held Tal-man fortress...... Kal'm bowed before the human lord offering the man his respects and marveling at the openness of the man's disrespect of his Queen. It was something wholly unexpected from the typically polite and politically round about Osmarii from the capital of Burtgun. Moreover to the Mur whowhose society was matriarchal and offered their service out of respect and deference to the old Shalvyian ways the concept was utterly alien. Despite this Kal'm thought it unwise to contradict the hawkish looking nobleman and prudently refrained from comment on the subject. To the Mur diplomat and commander Coenwulf looked like a warrior from the old tales clad in burnished steel and iron armor that reflected the light. It was unthinkably beautiful to the Skadian Folk who had never considered the wearing of metal plates as plausible where the existence of shaped and molded chitin from the more common crustaceans that lived in Skadia's waters would suffice. "More or less most of what you have heard is true Lord Coenwulf. My people are very different in many respects from the Shorewalkers of the Continent though despite this the Mur have always found the Osmarii a very agreeable people whose ideals are much in keeping with our own." Kal'm's voice was measured and his words carefully chosen. "Our people are not truly a part of this conflict. I have come at the request of the Shalvyian Lady's Seneschal. I was to take a cohort to the front lines and ensure that our agreements were honored with the Cauti. The Tal-Man represent our largest trading partner on the Continent, and so with the rebel outbreak in the South Lady Shuri'den'shalvys under threat of embargo demanded the Southern trade routes remain open to her peoples trade ships and caravans or risk invasion from the sea. No longer does the coast represent the border between our two realms." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.02 20:16:00 - [265] - Quote Spademan wrote: Coenwulf's Tent Standing upright once more Coenwulf spoke after the Mur's statement. "And so you come to me to travel a while alongside my forces, is that it?" Out of what he had heard of the Mur previously, the thing that intrigued him the most were the rumours of the strange powers some seemed to possess, particularly after the mutterings amongst his men about his performance during the recent assault on the Cauti fortress. Without really leaving time for a response to the previous, Coenwulf continued "On the topic of your people Kal'm, can you tell me aught of the rumours of 'powers' amongst your people? As preposterous as it seemed to me I've heard that there are those that can move objects without touching them." ...... In Coenwulf's Tent Kal'm found this Human Lord to be much unlike any of the other Lord and Ladies with whom he had treated in the capital. There was a hardness of character about Coenwulf that stood him apart from others. It also made him appear somewhat abrasive if not rude by the standards of the Mur. Despite himself the Mur found himself nodding an affirmation that he and his forces wished to travel alongside the Osmarii companies until the border zone was reached. From there they would cross into the Mani steppes and make for the from lines where whispers of battle had spread throughout the land. His concern for the matriarch of his people, Shuri'den'shalvys, was evident despite his attempts to maintain his composure. A moment later Coenwulf surprised the Mur further in asking about the Authorities of the world. Kal'm often found it strange how humans lack many who possessed the necessary mental and spiritual fortitudes to grasp at and manipulate the fundamental forces that governed their world. Such was also not often a point of discussion among the nobles as far as he had found. Most such treated him with a mild curiosity focusing more of the perceived physical differences between their species than the magical or spiritual. With a very measured and deliberate care Kal'm nodded a second time. "You are informed correctly Grayscale." He said twisting an a long arm in front of his chest as he affirmed the respect conveyed by the masculine title. "A great many forces exist in this world and many of those are.... perceptible to the people of the Isles. Such are the Authorities of nature." As if to reinforce his point he cast a tendril of thought out across the room to where one of the Lord's mailed gauntlet's rested probing the metallic object before projecting a sphere of Attraction several feet above it. With a clattering the gauntlet began to rise. As it reached the Lord's eye level he projected a second sphere of Attraction below it on the desk halting its ascent leaving it trembling in the air. "This is but one task and but one of many forces. With it I could send small objects travelling distant miles until I could not longer sense them or coax the ocean's tides to my will." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.02 21:59:00 - [266] - Quote ..... In Mar'thal (Minutes before the Summoning) Sia'tri lay restlessly at the edge of their hut's leafy bedding staring at the edge of night and musing to himself about what the future would bring he and Riah. They had been married not three days past at the beginning of the festival of light, and sound, and food, and sensory delights and in that time had done nothing but spend the imperceptible nights and days indolent and tangled up in each others arms. In that time a measure of peace had entered his heart as hesitant fumbling gave way to practiced caresses, and infrequent and awkward whispers among the leaves turned to intimate and open conversation interspersed between bouts of passion that lasted through the nights and late into the mornings. To them the world ceased to matter and little of consequence was ocurring at the festival that was not within the walls of the open windowed hut. With a tired sigh Sia'tri pushed himself up and out of the cot careful so as not to wake Riah. In the glow of the almost-full-but-waning-moon she was beautiful. Light played across her skin accentuated only more by what appeared to be a minute sheen of translucent oil, her hair fell down the nape of her neck in tresses, delicate eyes and full lips seemed so to flutter in her sleep. He was parched. Not because of his 'activities' but instead because not once in the last three days had he been able to find time to seek out the oceans, nor the rivers, nor even a simple tub or basin filled with cool water that was the lifeblood of his people. Instead he'd found himself withering away throughout the days unwilling to let himself disappoint Riah, whom he was sure wasn't quite as aware of the severe and debilitating effects dehydration had on Mur. He stumbled around the room cursing as his spade like feet seemed to collide with every solid object in the room including what he was searching for, a round clay container filled with water, which produced a single reverberating hollow note. "Scaleskinned ****." He mumbled under his breath as Riah pushed herself out of bed looking around the darkened room with bleary eyes. "Husband Sia'tri?" She called softly, yawning in the middle of his name. "You are awake again." It wasn't a question, more a statement of fact that implied a certain dreaded-but-not-that-dreaded weight. He briefly considered replying but the lucent stands of her red hair and parched throat made it hard for him to speak. He turns away for a minute and tears the lid off of the container and tosses it aside. It's surface feel rough against the skin of his hand without the traditional membrane of oil to coat it. Without warning he upends it over his head gasping as the cool water within fills his mouth and nose and begins to run down his neck, face, and arms. It splashes against the wooden boards of the floor pooling around his feet. For the first time in days Sia'tri felt he could breath again whooping loudly as a certain luster began to return to his skin. He repeated the action a second time amidst gasps all the while observed by an amused looking Artyee. Content and refreshed he wordlessly returned to bed. The familiar sounds of the night started all over again. -------- Hours later Riah started suddenly and bolted upright. Her crimson hair seemed to stand on end and teeth ground against one another. Sia'tri too noticed it. It was as if the shadows lengthened, or the low moaning of the wind began to howl, or perhaps it was the sickening visceral reaction he could feel in the Whorl. "Something is wrong Husband Sia'tri." Riah mewled pressing herself into the crook of his arm. "Something wrong..... evil has been called." He realized that she was trembling and wrapped and arm protectively around her. Outside the hut it was apparent that others too had sensed the change and cries of despair and lamentations for what was to come sounded over what had been love making and music. Even the light seemed to dim and bend away from a deserted section of the village. "I don't want to be here any more Husband. We should leave. Leave now." Sia'tri nodded. Much of the Artugian way of life was foreign to him but something was going on that evoked a true sense of horror in his lover and her people. If he recalled correctly only spirits could do this to the Artugians, and if someone were summoning and binding spirits it could mean another Ancestor, or a Darker Spirit the kind Shuri'den'shalvys had warned him about after her meeting with K'lo. "Alright. Pack your things and make down to the shore where we first met. We have boats moored there.... M'kke stay whatever disaster is about to befall this place." Minutes later they had packed their belonging into small pouched of flayed Artugian skin and were like many other families fleeing across the walkways. Out of the pack dashed Shu'um and a half dozen of Sia'tri's pathfinders with short spears. "Where is Jon?! Why has he not been seen?" Said the older Mur woman. "Jon is missing?!" Cried Riah. "Husband he must be found.... he... he.... he was my husband before you and I still care for him deeply." Sia'tri simply nodded and directed half his men to aid with the evacuation using the Twimblade he had been given while annoucing his intent to aid the Artugian chief to any who would listen. "We will seek out Jon and bring him back. If aught goes amiss the Mur in the South shall be aware of his fell night and will have prepared themselves. My people will come to lend their aid as we promised Kin-On-The-Land." To Riah he added. "I love you and treasure the days we have already spent together. I will return to you.... but I shall try to bring Jon back to you as well. On my Whorl....and on yours I promise. Kalya willing they are one and the same." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.*
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.13 07:43:00 - [267] - Quote ((I'll be on planes for roughly the next 36 hours. Will have written my response then.)) Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.19 00:18:00 - [268] - Quote Finally after what seemed like hours of bitter close quarters fighting they had made their way around towards the rear bastion of the fortress. Despite their successes more than half of Ruslan's men had been killed or injured by resolute Cauti defenders or explosive tripwires that his men simply couldn't perceive due to their size. Determined to see the battle through and with a defiant battle cry he kicked open the final studded iron door, almost tearing it off of its hinges in the process, and steeped through the breach. What surprised him most was the lack of sonorous gunfire and burning sensation as musket rounds finally reaped their toll from him. Instead he was confronted by the quivering forms of two dozen Mur. Some cowered against the walls and he noted that only a few even wore clothes and even then they were only leather harnesses around the chests to hold an array of elegant yet cruel looking blades. One however towered over them in armour that appeared to be made of enormous bone segments with a long two handed blade laid over his knees as he cradled the limp form of a strange looking Mur woman with mottled ashen skin. Two more Tal shuffled into the room rifles readied to fire. They hesitated lowering their guns. "Who are you?" Ruslan demanded of the Mur. He glanced around suspiciously for some sign of an ambush or trap. " What are you doing here and more importantly surrender or die. Allies or no if you fight back we will break you and take the survivors for slaves." The Mur seemed to recoil at the inference of slavery but nonetheless the lightly armed Mur skirmishers seemed defiant and raised their weapons trying too look menacing before the armoured giants. To Ruslan they looked like children with strangely lustrous blue skin and strange appendages that seemed to supplant a natural hair. "I said stand down!" With a flick of his wrist he slapped aside a Mur who had come too close launching him into another behind leaving them in a tangled heap. A hush fell upon the group of ocean dwellers and the armoured warrior addressed Ruslan. "Fine..... we surrender. We can't fight even if we wanted to....." He spat the words disdainfully. Ruslan could see how the Mur's hands whitened at the knuckles as her grasped the hilt of his sword. "Do what you like with us but you must seen the Shalvyian woman here back to the company of her people or the Isles. However it would be a poor idea to hold me or my men captive." Ruslan's eyes narrowed. "Shalvyian woman? And why would that be Fishback?" "I give orders. I don't take them well..... and if I'm not back in port in a few days 'Marri will be looking for me. She's not as diplomatic as I am." The Tal-Mani strike leader simply grunted not appearing particularly perturbed but also ignorant to what the Mur was referencing in his threat. Suddenly it dawned on him that this might have been the Mur party passing through the Cauti lands with supplies and led by a foreign diplomat. But is had been days since they had been expected. If the Mur was right this woman was..... "Signal a general retreat." He said rounding on a female Tal pointing at Shuri'den. "Now! Stop arguing. These are the Skadian representatives and that is Shuri'den'shalvys. Only the most important person in their entire culture. Now go and do your job before I clap you round the head Private Ilia." He turned back to the warrior Mur. "Get her up now and follow closely. If you have the supplies on hand then bring them." Ruslan frowned as one of the civilian Mur explained that they had been left outside the gates however seemed content when Man'tiel ordered several of his men crawl through the castle plumbing to secure them. Smirking when he promised them enough water to bathe for a week after they were done. Leading the way back to the main gate Ruslan noticed how the furious bombardment of the siege guns had started up again covering their retreat to the forward trenches. Within the hour they were safe. An hour after than they were en route for central command to greet the Tal leaders. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.19 03:46:00 - [269] - Quote ........... In Mar'Thal, the Night of Darkness The assembled Mur screamed in abject terror and scrabbled back across the wooden walk ways in attempt to get away from the bound spirits. As he had been before Sia'tri was somewhat struck by the beauty of the spirits, even the Twisted Ancestors had a particular tenebrous and feral quality that appealed to him, while the others simply dropped their spears and ran fleeing for the lifts to the jungle below. Mila tugged at his arm urging him to follow. He responded sluggishly and with great hesitance. His footsteps were clumsy, joints lethargic, and his tongue heavy. Still he managed to form a the basis of what in his mind was a very complex question that attacked the very heart of the Artugian meta-physical state, however escaped his lips was something very different. "Is it still Jon?" He wanted to resist Mila, to turn and fight alongside the Great Leader for all he had done. The notion was foolish and he knew it. This had stopped being a battle between mortal creatures and if he were to fight he would be stepping into the demesne of the eternal, the ethereal, and the implacable. If only I were a powerful Shaper, he thought bitterly, perhaps then I would not feel helpless like this. Perhaps I could at least help Jon...... if that remains him. It was his promise that bound him there. The one he had made to Riah, the light of the last three days of his life and he fervently hoped forever more, to bring the husband she loved back to her. On the wooden floor beside him weeping uncontrollably was Shu'um a long keening sound echoing back to them through the trees. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.23 00:51:00 - [270] - Quote ...................In Mar'thal, Night of Darkness Jon was dead. The words hurt in a way Sia'tri had simply not expected them to. The Chieftain of the Durna Tribe and the Great Leader of the Artugian people whom had been welcoming to him was gone, and the knowledge that his soul would never find it's way to the place where those of his ancestor's dwelt troubled him to no end. Moreover in the ensuing chaos three of his closest friends had been thrown from the narrow walk ways to plunge through the canopy of the forest to the ground below. Shu'um, Dy'shad, and Mor'mel, now Jon. Each name left a ragged hole in his heart which only a numbness seemed to fill. As the Ancestor retreated Sia'tri ordered the remaining Mur survivor, a boy by the name of Par'thel, to seek out Ria and hopefully help her gather the other tribal cheiftain's moreover he was to as soon as that was done swim south to warn the southern settlements of these grave events. As the Ancestor faded from existence Sia'tri offered it a single respectful nod which he felt conveyed everything that needed to be said. His thanks, his sorrow, what anger he felt for the spirit at having consumed his friend, a relief that he had survived to return to Ria, and a resoluteness that his support would go to the Ancestor's chosen. He would hold that to be Jon's last wish. He rushed to Mila's side with an awkward gait and offered her what support he could while questioning her about any injuries she might have sustained. All around him the flowers and vines had withered into dark reflections of their former selves and an ominous silence pervaded the tree top clearing. As he looked upon it he felt something break inside him. It was a visceral reaction, equally painful as it was surreal, unlike any he had previously experienced. It was as if a cold wave had washed over him like the violent stormsent autumn tides in the Isles. "Mila!....... that....I-I don't." The words simply wouldn't form. In the end all he could manage was. "Are you well?" and a half whispered. "I am so sorry." ..................In the Company of Coenwulf Scruitinised the human map looking to where Coenwulf had indicated the river way his men would have to cross admiring both the artistry with which the Osmarii rendered the landscape and how strange it was that their maps displayed the land from above as if see from above. It was such a foreign concept. Despite that he was gladdened to see that a river way existed that would allow his force to advance without having to march over land for at least half the distance of the journey and would not expose force him to expose the frailty of his people before the Greyscale. "It's a tall request that you make." Said Lord Coenwulf. His tone was understandably dry. "I need to know two things, firstly, how many soldiers have you brought with you and secondly, the animals to attempted to describe, are they for riding or for food?" Sia'tri nodded making quick calculations of the number of his men as well as their requirements given the new topographical information. He would later have to have a cartographer offer to make copies of the Osmarii and Skadian maps for general dissemination amongst their people. "I realise that my request may have seemed audacious and perhaps even rude to you Lord Greyscale and I cry you pardon for it however it seems you may have provided then answer to our woes." He replied tactfully answering the first part of the question. "Including myself and the two Shapers with me our cohort numbers 312 Mur of the Silver Lake and Two Rivers." It did however take him a moment to process the second part of the question. When he did he looked horrified the concept of eating the beasts. It appeared to the Osmarii that the creatures maintained by the soldiers were not soldiers themselves in Coenwulf's army given the task of bearing the burden of its movements and operations. "The......oxen they are not for eating." She said slowly having remembered how several women of the court in Burtgun had spend an afternoon teaching him the intricacies of the human tongue, though despite their efforts he still pronounced the word as 'ophren'. "They would merely be required to transport the water supply with us as we march along side your forces..... such I feel would be an investment in our mutual expedition to the border zone. My people want for little as your lands are bountiful and our supplies shall suffice until we return to the sea. But I believe that not even half so much would be required during our march upon the fortress if my cohort scouts ahead by way of the river. Our force is smaller and we are already readied for travel. I can have runners sent if we encounter the enemy if that suits you Greyscale." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.24 03:01:00 - [271] - Quote ............. In Artuga Rolling waves lapped against the sable shores of Artuga coming as travellers from a far distant horizon cast in shades of blue where wispy clouds drifted in lazy trails through the heavens. Encircled by two high bluffs and dominated by a tiered network of tidal pools formed the igneous island mineral the vista was as breath taking and serene as could be found in Artuga. Two figures sat upon the shore separated by an expanse infinitely larger than it appeared as both seemed to retreat into themselves and further away from each other to the point to the point that they appeared more as strangers than those who have been loves. At the very edge of the sea the tide brushed up against a pair slender legs the colour of damp ashes where an Artyee sat, her head buried in her arms, her body racked by sobbing tremors. Not a metre from her sat the figure of a blue skinned male who seemed gangly by comparison, his shoulders sunken and defeated, gazed out across the sea. Neither spoke a word. What could be said between them that would absolve the events of the night before? What make right their relationship where it had now been sundered? Such questions spun through Sia'tri's mind mingling with the miserable sense of loss and shame he felt at Jon's passing. Since the coming of the Dark One, which had cost Jon his life, the world itself seemed dimmer, less of what it had once been, and decidedly darker as he couldn't bear to look at it without the filmy lens of the his second set of eyelids. Hours had passed since the new Greatclaw had been named and the Tribal Leaders had sworn their allegiance to Mila the Blessed as she had come to be known. The dawn crowned the new day with a hopeful radiance that the Mur Pathfinder could not bring himself to appreciate. How could he redeem himself in Ria's eyes? He'd boasted like a fool that he would bring Jon back from whatever dangers had befallen him. Instead he'd been worse than useless and he'd come to believe that his inactions had caused Jon's transformation that had cost his soul entrance to the place where his Ancestor's dwelt. When he had tried to explain Ria had simply looked at him with a horrified expression that had pained him more greatly than any physical wound he'd suffered. He'd not sworn himself to the new Greatclaw yet. He could not in good conscience not without sending word to Shuri'den'shavys or having properly mourned himself. Nor had he promised her the friendship and Whorl Oath, or ship bond, that he had given so easily before. His thoughts were disturbed by the rustling of bushes from the mouth of the jungle. Shadowy forms at the edge of his perception coalescing into four of the recognisable crimson haired Artugians. At the fore of their procession was Mila, the others were presumably her guardians in the same manner that she had been to the previous Great Leader. He rose slowly allowing them to see the depths of the his spiritual malaise in the way his shoulders hung, the way the membranes of his fins had fulled and in how they involuntarily dipped in her presence, or how despite himself he could not open his eyes fully which left the sockets appear completely black. He managed the traditional Artugian greeting with a great deal of effort though it had appeared less formal than he would have wished. "Strong winds bring you good fortune Great Leader" Behind him Ria flinched as his words reached her. "..... I....we.... that is the Mur have not yet come to a consensus on what to name you yet....... I hope this offers you no offence...." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.24 20:44:00 - [272] - Quote ......... In Artuga Ria took the shattered blade with a reverence feeling the weight of the the irons as both halves lay across her palms. Through her crimson tresses both the warriors and Mila could see the depths of her grief and fresh tears ran down her cheeks to form tiny sparkling beads as they feel to the sand below. She felt a certainly kinship with Mila. Jon had many wives, some before her, others still remained after his passing lost to their own grief. Mila had been one of his three protectors from the tribes and she had come to understand the affections the woman had harboured for Jon. What Artyee could have dedicated her life to such an Artya and not found herself enthralled. But Mila had never approached Jon nor had he approached her and for that she pitied them. Perhaps if the Tall Ones had never come they might have been able to live in peace and Mila might have been another of Jon's wives alongside her. She glanced down at the remains of his weapon again reminding herself that this weapon was not him. Jon had been his claws, his belt of skulls, and after his injuries the purposeful manner with which he limped from duty to duty. "Thankyou Mila....." She said. Her voice threatened to break suddenly. "...I would like to have this displayed for the Tribes so that they can be reminded of what Jon did for Artuga. I long to keep him for myself but he was not solely mine." With that said she returned the Twinblade to Mila. Before she could protest she brushed aside Mila's hair and planted a gentle kiss on her brow. "I'd would have been proud to have seen you as a Wife. But remember Mila now that you are Great Leader of all Artuga that its wasn't you who failed me, and not you alone that failed him. We all did.... Still we are alive now and Jon would want us go back to living with joy in our hearts." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.24 22:57:00 - [273] - Quote ............. In Artuga Sia'tri stirred as the Artyee was brought before them clenching his fists and glowering at her though the translucent pitch dark eyelids. "Who is she and why did you bring her here?" He made to reach for the Drowning Knife attached to his leather harness but stopped himself gripping his wrist with the other hand. ".....forgive me Great Leader.... but I'm having trouble controlling myself." He kneels and stares directly into her eyes from no more than a few centimetres away his voice filled with a cold anger than accentuates his measured tone. Looking directly at him is like looking "She'd better talk.... I want the names of those who betrayed Jon and those who threaten the Mur. If it involves us it is as I said to Jon once..... and now to you. Our enemies will never be able to salt the skins of their ancestors by the seas or rivers so long as we oppose them." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.25 21:15:00 - [274] - Quote ......... In Artuga Sia'tri mulled over the Great Leader's words. The Shattered Blade seemed like a fitting name from a group dedicated to safeguarding Jon's legacy and relationships with his people and he found himself nodding with an open approval. He longed to join them but hesitated knowing what the price of initiation was and found himself for the first time since the incidents of the previous night taking stock of how fortunate they had all been. "Great Leader." He said confidently standing to his full height. He placed one hand over his heart and raised his chin to bare his throat as a sign of deference and trust among his people. "I would have relished the opportunity to serve you in this endeavour and also to have had revenge on Jon's killers but I have many responsibilities to my people, you, and now my extended family here in Artuga...." Beside his Ria offered him a slight smile. ".... and I cannot in good conscience ask to become an agent of the Shattered Blade. However I want to offer you the full support of my people and my own services in bringing these traitors down. With that said I believe at this time the best way I can achieve that is to comport myself in the most respectable manner possible in the eyes of your people...... I feel perhaps that few enough of them accept me because I have no twin to slay nor have I ever entered into Durna..... if there is ever such a chance you must allow me to face your enemies in this way. I want none to say I did not show respect for your ancestors and customs. Additionally you must let me offer the same oaths I offered Jon in public for all the Tribes to see." Finally he glanced down that the Artyee who had spat at his feet before and nodded. "She betrayed Jon to be sure and shall not escape without punishment...... but I shall reflect on whether or not to turn her over to the Stormdaughters. She will be sent South and watched at all times. I suspect the Daughter's will hound me night and day for their claim to her..... though I suppose that is to our advantage and they are like to aid the Shattered Blade with their Shapers. In a land like Artuga their Authority over Abrasion I fear will be a powerful and dangerous weapon... so I warn you not to trust them too greatly. The Stormdaughters are...difficult." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.26 00:24:00 - [275] - Quote ....... several hours later in The Ruins of Mihal Hours later Sia'tri waited with the Artya and Artyee of the Shattered Blade in the ruins of their ancestral holding. It's name was Mihal, or so he had been told by the others, and it was the first of the places the Tal'Man had landed. The same site where they had wounded Jon and enslaved what Artugians they could find. It was a place of great misery for the Durna Tribe..... his Tribe. He'd tried to imagine what it would have been like to stare down Mani largebore rifles, to have heard the sound of thunderous gunfire for the first time, to be unable to comprehend why their kin were dying to the giant humanoids. The concept was not wholly foreign to him with the import of such fire arms into his country barely a year ago however their quick adoption of the technology had seen the cannon almost become common place. He breath caught sharply as the sleek for the Assail came to rest in the bay having sailed with the prevailing winds and on tides shaped by the Authorities. Rigged for swift travel across the oceans there were few Skadian vessels of its like in the world, moreover the ship had been commissioned upon his order and the bowspirit carved by his own hand, besides becoming an Artugian in all but blood this was his crowning achievement. It caught again several minutes later when a half dozen splashed from the shore heralded the arrival of the Stormdaughters. They we're simply Mur. Each a woman of unsurpassed beauty within the scope of their race possessed of a dozen braids of iridescent orange, carmine, and violet hues, slim and delicate Shalvyian figures, their faces covered with dozens of piercings made of a bone like material. They walked with a practiced stride, slightly less awkward than most Mur appeared on the land, and with purpose. Their eyes, heavily dilated by the cocktails of drugs and stimulants, scanned the assembled Mur and Artugians with looks of mild amusement, curiosity, and a feral cunning. If Ria was an exotic beauty in Sia'tri's eyes these women were the classical embodiment Mur desire. They were led by a woman Sia'tri recognised as Csh'te. "Strong Winds Lady Stormbreaker." He said in greeting allowing the other Artugians to offer their own greetings before he approached her to exchange the breath of life. The exchange was awkward and far more intimate that the pathfinder had expected as she wore a heady perfume the spoke of the ocean blossoms carried on spring times. With the formalities completed he returned to his position. "Strong winds to you Sia'tri...... our Firewalker." Her voiced dripped amusement each word enunciated clearly yet with a lilting purr that he identified as a Skurd accent. "We were told you had an Artyee for us. We've long desired to..... experience one. And here you are Firewalker delivering us the kin of your lovely wife." (TBC) Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.29 21:05:00 - [276] - Quote ........ in the Tal-Man Warcamps As they Mur were ushered into the Warcamps by Ruslan and his warriors Man'tiel allowed the civilians amongst them to care for Shuri'den and carry her still unconscious body to the medical tents. Additionally he asked the members of his crew who still gathered around to remove his armour. After wearing it with little in the way of rest for days on end he needed to swim. River or ocean it did not matter however the foul waters polluted by the Cauti industry. He genuinely felt bad for the Tal as he was berated by his general. He'd done a good thing even if it had cost them the siege and if nothing else Man'tiel himself would find a way to reward the soldier himself even if he had to sack a Tal-Mani galleon to do it. He'd grown fond of the Shalvyian woman in their journeys together and more than anything wanted to see her home to their people safely almost more than he wanted to get back to the Maestrom and Tamarri'sen. "General Brigadier..." He said bearing his throat. Through his thick South Seas accent he wondered if the Tal even understood him. " We are much indebted to you and to your soldier Ruslan for having escorted Lady Shuri'den'shalvys away from the battle. She was forced to defend both our people and the Cauti leader Kalimat when one of the Towers collapsed on us..... I am sure she well see that you as the commander of this army are richly rewarded for your service when our people arrive from Osmarium. We are greatly indebted to you." ..... In the company of Coenwulf "It is a great pleasure to meet you whelping of Grayscale." Said Kal'm with a slight bow. "We appreciate the aid you have agreed to render us and would like to be about as soon as possible. Lady Shuri'den'shalvys has been gone from the Isle long and they wane in her absence. If you would please lead us to the provisions. The Ophren can wait until we cross the River though we will require the timber." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.30 21:23:00 - [277] - Quote ........ In Mihal with Csh'te Csh'te was fuming when Mo'q found her and was lashing the side of an igneous cliff face with Abrasions and admiring the way layers of rock seemed to slide away in a cherry red haze before it was caught on the wind, cooled, and shifted to a fine black powder. Sia'tri Firewalker was a fool to shelter the Artyee from her, she thought bitterly, cursing his Artugan given name for denying her entertainment and the information her people and the Shattered Blade were seeking. He was soft and sentimental when it came to the natives. A shuffling in the bushes let her know one of the Artugan's had dared approach her. She found that commendable after the ignorant display of superstitious tribal behaviour they'd displayed when all she had done was ask the Artyee a few questions, shared her own prized facial piercings with her, and asked her to sing in basest tone her people knew how. What she had learned of the Artugan natives in those few minutes she strongly believed surpassed all of the knowledge Sia'tri had gained in his months of cultural integration. Pain spoke to the soul and the soul told her all she ever would need to know. "I apologise from my unsightliness Great Artugan warrior." She turned to her visitor smiling sweetly and speaking with honeyed words. "I am Csh'te of Skurd in the Isles of Skadia. I also ask your forgiveness for my..... zeal in pressing your Artyee. I am simply desperate to prove myself a worthy addition to your company and to protect our people. As of me all your heart desires and I shall make it reality. " She took a few steps towards Mo'q kneeling before Mo'q and taking one of his hands gently. "You look as though you we're carved of Vinnetir's image yourself were you but Mur...... but I cannot call you what I am thinking Artya. What is your name and how many I bring our foes to ruin?" ......................... In the Tal Man Warcamps Shuri'den who was the last of the Shalvyian Mur awoke to the sounds of hammers ringing on steel breast plates and the roar of disciplined gunfire as Tal recruits practised firing in formation. Around her Mur fussed and busied themselves within the canopy of a spartan tent funished with only the basic necessities all rendered in a comically large scale that was more suited for the Shorewalking Giants. Her body ached as if she had been beaten within and inch of her life and would barely respond to her own mental commands and if she had to describe the worst symptom of her malady it would have been the sense of dessication. It was as if she had been deprived of water for weeks. The oil coating her skin felt thin and without substance leaving the heavy and roughspun fabric of the bedding to chafe her skin raw. She groan and tried to rise much to the chagrin of the merchant mur now gathering about her. Despite her protests they insisted on fetching clean water and dousing her several times until the lustre of her skin returned. They prepared a modest but greatly appreciated meal of salted Kresh and Rivermoss and dressed her with woven silver strings and a coral crown with tall protrusions likened to the Tsh'helu's antlers. Once she felt the life return to her limbs she exited the tent and made her way towards where her people had suggested Man'tiel and the 'General Brigadier', whatever that was, could be found. What she noticed was how odd it was to be so small and fragile in a land of giants who seemed to leer down at her curiously as though she were nothing more than some aberrant life form. When she came to the tent she found Man'tiel oiling the wave shaped Oathblade while talking animatedly with two Tal, a male and a female. When he saw Shuri'den nodded respectfully and raised his chin in a gesture that took her completely by surprise. When she stopped before them he explained all that had transpired since the siege. "I'm told I have you to thank for protecting our people Ruslan. I am most grateful to you and your 'General Brigadier'. And to you Man'tiel." The Mur warrior grinned and lounged back against the blade that he had plunged into the ground and was using as a makeshift seat. "You should thank me when I can Push half a fortress away with my mind. Till then if you want to thank me I could use a day or so in camp before we leave." "Whatever for?" She asked curiously. "I'm going to be the first Mur to bed a Tal." She rolled her eyes and walked right past him. "We leave immediately Adelya's soldiers reach the warcamps, try not to irrecoverably damage political relations with this country Man'tiel. I have no doubt these Tal women would probably end up killing you and I don't want to be apologising to Lord Grey for our people being comparatively 'fragile'." Man'tiel went pale for a second and seemed to rethink his priorities while Ruslan laughed boisterously and the Tal woman just nodded looking very amused. Inside the tent she found Trovski and presented herself before him. "General Brigadier Trovski..... as you have asked I have come. We owe our lives to your men and would only be too happy to compensate you for your service to the Kingdom of Skadia. Moreover I am glad to hear that my people have retrieved their merchandise and have since brought it to the camps. We hope this material shall aid you in place of the soldiers we are cannot send. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.11.30 23:17:00 - [278] - Quote .................. In Coenwulf's War Camp Kal'm begins to shake his head. "The Ophren and water will be needed only once our combined forces have crossed the river. Until that time we shall float the timbre down the river and begin construction once we arrive. The Shaper's and I will be attempting to separate the moisture from the wood as quickly as possible to make the wood ready to be laid in position." He begins inspecting the wood and orders one of the Mur with him to gather one hundred Mur to transport lengths of wood to the main force and order the rest to set of immediately that they received their length of timbre so that there would be two Mur to each spar. Ten minutes later his men appeared in the camps and began to carry out his orders meanwhile Kal'm addressed Vadir. "Many thanks. We shall be away momentarily please convey my respects to your father. I have no doubt I shall see you before this journey is done." With that he turned away and set out for the river ways leading his cohort toward the bridge site. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.12.08 23:49:00 - [279] - Quote ........ In Mihal Csh'te smiled sweetly back at Mo'q as he expressed his discomfort at having witnessed her abilities. She took a seat next to him and watched as he began to sharpen the twinblade, she amused herself during that time by considering the Artugan condition and surprised herself by coming to the conclusion that the Artya and Artyee of this country were indeed as interesting as Sia'tri has described. "Come now Mo'q... such 'abilities' are hardly unnatural. In fact not one of the Authorities commands and force outside of the natural world and if applied correctly could serve to make life so much more pleasant. For example..." In an extravagant gesture she reached over and ran the tip of one finger across the nearest of the twin blades sharpened ends drawing a line of blood across the weapons edge. A thin layer of powdered metal fell away on the breeze leaving only a sharpened edge. "Abrasion.... a natural force you yourself were creating just now. One that pertains to 'warmth and friction' Mo'q." She explained placing emphasis on the last three words. From a pouch at her waist she drew forth several new bone like studs and began threading them into the same position where her other facial studs had previously been, sealing the wounds. "Until Sia'tri returns from the South we are yours Mo'q..... to command as you hunt your prey. If you so ask I can see your enemies burned away, broken from within, or in the bed of their closest allies. You will see, the Shattered Blade will find us to be appealing allies. Now how should we begin this hunt for I am eager to see this done." ........ In Osmarium Kal'm and his warriors made swift progress down the river ways towards the location Coenwulf has specified on his map as his army's fording location. With each passing mile the river grew thinner until it was barely more than forty feet across and the Mur found themselves forced into a procession of no more than two abreast as they guided the timbre spars downriver. At Kal'm's request they laid out the timbre on the river banks and allowed the Shapers to removed the water from the sodden wood with a form of Attraction. It was a taxing process and the Shapers themselves quickly began to feel drained requiring longer and longer rests. Using what wood they had the Mur were able to fashion two bridges within the first five hours or construction which would allow a company of men each to across in formation and estimated with the wood they had left they would barely be able to construct another two bridges before they either ran short or Coenwulf's forced march would reach their location. They passed away the remaining hours of the night working by lantern light managing to construct only one other heavy bridge capable of sustaining the weight of armed men and one smaller bridge that could perhaps be used to transport the camp followers and their animals. By the time their construction had halted it were mid morning the following day and Kal'm ordered his warriors rest until Coenwulf's men had passed. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.12.09 21:30:00 - [280] - Quote .......... In Mihal Csh'te said very little after that instead offering Mo'q a single look of sadistic excitement that continued long into their hunt. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.12.15 00:22:00 - [281] - Quote ............... In Mihal Hours after the raid in the small hours of the following morning when the Artya and Artyee of the Shattered Blade took their rest the interrogation of the two captives began. The settlement of Mihal had been for the longest time a barren reminder of night the Tall Ones had laid waste to one of Durna's largest and most thriving of settlements however since the Shattered Blade had taken up residence in the ruins several of the leafy huts had been rebuilt. One such hut had been constructed further from the main settlement for the express purpose of housing the Scattered prisoners whom Mo'q's operatives captured until they either confessed their crimes or were sentenced to execution. In one such hut Csh'te's interrogations began. Initially they were a noiseless affair that Mo'q likely would have found tiresome and quite draining of his patience as the Mur woman simply asked question after question of the tight-lipped natives. They refused to speak for hours, and with each refusal Csh'te seemed to grow more enraptured clearly manifesting in her body language and shape. Csh'te stalked around the captives with little regard for modesty, her bearing contained a predatory grace that matched the look in her eyes which were of the deepest and most inscrutable of blues like the ocean depths. She could taste the air, scent her captives fear, feel the myriad changes in her body and the cocktails of ritualised drugs brought her to highs of perception that she'd long since become addicted to. With the barest hint of a smile, a simple gesture that belayed how much she would enjoy this, she went to work. What followed Mo'q would barely be able to describe to others, if he even wished to, though at times he had to admit that there was a certain artistry to it. If ever there was an artisan so naturally suited to the unravelling of the spirit as Csh'te seemed to surgically explored the stuff their ancestors and gods created them of. The screams she was able to exhort from her victims ranges in timbre, intensity, and tone rising and falling in some twisted rhythm that reminded him of Mar'Thal's recent festival. At times it seemed he couldn't even tell if it were the Artya, Artyee, or Csh'te herself who was the source of the wailing. There were tenebrous bursts of activity that he could not remember clearly in his minds eye and to his horror he would recall moments of the night where the stormdaughter had asked him to join her in the revelry. By the time the sun rose the following morning the Artya and Artyee had given up their secrets to Mo'q though how they did in their condition he barely knew how. Beside him Csh'te seemed to slump inwardly the lustre of her skin gone and deep rings around her eyes. "Did you hear them Mo'q? Did you hear their secrets?" She crowed victoriously looked very self-satisfied as she surveyed her handiwork. Not a single piece of the bone like facial studding was present on her face and trails of blood ran from the penetrations that made it seem as if she were weeping with joy. She knelt before Mo'q and took his hand again as she had before the raid. "Thank you Mo'q....thank you... w-we need to thank you f-for this.... yes thank you Mo'q. Sia'tri Firewalker is right and there is something about your people that I find fascinating... perhaps it was the breaking or music they made.... I don't know yet only that we have much work to do and I will have plenty of opportunities to find out." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.12.15 00:31:00 - [282] - Quote ...... In the Tal Mani Camps Shuri'den'shalvys nodded appreciatively remembering, and oddly finding herself missing, the days she had spent with Grey and the foreign ambassadors in the Coral Tower. Perhaps it was merely that she was longing for the familiar shores and oceans of her homeland or perhaps it was that she missed the company after the years of quiet solitude in the Tower. "I remember how Grey showed me your peoples penchant for wine and feasting General Brigadier, something our people share. Though of course due to your Kin'kre blood and great size I fear we Mur would be hard pressed to match you. I would be honoured and in good company to sit at your table if you would have me. To our savoir it is the least I could offer you." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.12.16 22:45:00 - [283] - Quote ........ In the Company of Coenwulf Having rested during the time Coenwulf and his forces had taken to cross the bridges the Mur were fresh when they alongside the human engineers were tasked with breaking down the bridges. It was laborious work however Kal'm felt it worthwhile as he watched the large host of men pass by matching in serried ranks across the landscape. They almost resembled a gleaming silver snake as they wound their way towards yet another fortress along the borderlands. In a display of honour that was duly appreciated by the Mur the Oxen and supplies of water were given without issue despite the quartermasters grumblings. With large supplies of fresh water at their disposal the Mur joined the Osmarii march westward as best they could. However they soon found themselves lagging behind the human formations which slowly over took them one by one. Unlike the rugged humans they languished under the sun and hours into their march came to a halt to distribute some of the water supplies amongst themselves. Much to the Quarter Master's dismay, who observed this from within the baggage trains where the camps supplies and follows formed a brightly colour trail, the Mur shapers drew from the urns and scattered the particles to the air in a fine shower that resembled a light summers rain. While the human soldiers looked on with confusion the Mur simply rejoined the march very much so rejuvenated. Once the force had reached the border fortress the Mur began to set out their camps near where the baggage train and camp followers had set up their own, far from the front lines. Meanwhile Kal'm and his Shapers went to seek council from Coenwulf on how best to make for the Tal Mani frontlines across the border and to seek his blessing to leave them to their siege. Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2015.12.21 23:06:00 - [284] - Quote ....... in the Company of the Mur The gathering was a small one on an open patch of grassland just outside of the encampment. Having travelled so far with so few belongings the Mur had little in the way of extravagance that could be offered to their honour guests, though Kal'm supposed Coenwulf being less so interested in the refined niceties of the Burtgun court would have appreciated that. When Coenwulf and Vadir arrived they were welcomed with open arms by Kal'm and the Mur who had busied themselves digging a series of deep pits in the earth while others brought large flat stones from the surrounding landscape. After a time of labouring in this fashion the Mur shifted their focus lighting fires and heating the stones until they glowed a hypnotic, cherry red. Using his Authorities Kal'm and his Shapers went from pit to pit using their Authorities to lines the walls with the heated stones. All the while the Mur offered their guests what foods their had either been able to gather or purchase from the camp's merchants. A weak watered down wine flowed freely accompanied by preserved fruits and pickled herrings. Meanwhile several of the soldiers put down their weapons to string and take up compact instruments from within their waterproofed packs adding a fast paced and sprightly cadence to the evening air. Continuing their preparations Mur quickly removed large pouches made of what appeared to be a rubbery material and unfolded them into the pits quickly fitting them with water that steamed and bubbled in a while froth almost instantly. Soon after various vegetables, fishes, even some vaguely recognisable crustacean that had recently become popular on the island province of Kilerth. After an hour of music, wine, and celebration the steamed foods were served. River Trout on a bed of steamed water cress, and steamed vegetables from Osmarium the likes the Mur had never seen. Kresh was also served in abundance and regularly proffered to the human guests, and soon the sounds of music was interspersed between the sounds of the barbed tentacles being crunched between the teeth. Finally Kal'm offered his guests a toast. "We thank you for all you have done Lord Coenwulf and we celebrate you tonight. May your battles in the future be swift and bloodless. May you find glory and power in this life as is the desire of your people. And may we part as friends to meet again some day." Em shah tey et naGÇÖemsaer ek rahvi, amarr osedah gasi ubday pahk. Ekin tey vahka ijed div ema ziel. Et tey vamatal em.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2016.01.11 21:49:00 - [285] - Quote ...... In Mihal Csh'te, the Stormdaughter, lingered a moment outside the cottage listening intently as Mo'q re-entered the crude structure and cut the throats of their prisoners. A wave of horror and fatigued washed over her as she felt their spirits flee their bodies and enter the void beyond, wholly wasted. Once the Artya was gone she stole back into the hut to collect her bone facial studs however a rustling outside the hut caused a sudden spark of panic and Csh'te fled Mihal to the small spring at the edge of the village where the Artugan's would not disturb her. There she washed the blood from both her face and the studs before carefully inserting them back into their original positions. Furious at Mo'q for having killed them she lashed a nearby rock with an Abrasion several times leaving its surface glowing a cherry red and warming the air by the pool before settling down to rest until she was next needed. ...... In Tal Man Kal'm's forces crossed into Tal Man upon the dawn and had intended to send runners to a small settlement indicated on their maps to alert the Kin'kre to their presence in the region however shortly after first light a border patrol caught their trail and approached from the South. Kal'm relayed the purpose of their mission to the guardsmen whom seemed to somewhat understand the situation though didn't seem particularly concerned with an armed host crossing into their lands from the East. Rather than detain the Mur any longer than was required the leader of the contingent offered them two of his men as guides and bid them offer his respects to a Tal named General Bridgadir. Eager to be on his was as well Kal'm nodded his assent and with that marched across the flat Mani plains as far as his Mur could muster in a day. Upon the following dawn and with many more miles to go before they came upon the frontlines Kal'm consulted the Tal guides asking if their were water ways leading towards the Southern regions of the country. To his dismay there were few and the ones that did flow south were small trickles that his armed soldiers would have trouble moving through unless they were two abreast. Though Kal'm did not like extending out his formation it would be the only means of reaching their destination in any acceptable time frame. By midday his men had entered the trickles and were making a respectable advance. That night several hours after his men had camped by the river side the two lumbering forms of the Tal guides jogged into camp without a word or sign of fatigue, sat down at one of the fires, and after they had eaten fell asleep. The company arrived in the Warm Camps the morning following Shuri'den'shalvys invitation by General. ...... In the War Camps Shuri'den of Shalvys the was attended the dinner sitting with the Brigadier General extending the invitation to two members of the small company of Mur whom she had determined were most affected by the traumatic events of the siege and in need of hot food and drink in friendly company. The three of them didn't bother with Maera as they presented themselves to the Tal Mani officers simply because they suspected the Tal warriors had little appreciation for the fine silks and gossamer weaves that perhaps would have sufficed for a more formal setting amongst nobles and royalty. "That means Sir Isaac Newton is the deadliest son-of-a-bitch in space." - Unnamed Gunnery Chief, The Citadel
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2016.01.17 21:54:00 - [286] - Quote ................ In the Warcamps Shuri'den'shalvys smiles across the table at her host. "We too are grateful to be here." She replied as we inclined her head to each of the Tal-Man officers seated around the table. "Kalya truly smiled upon us in our hour of need and sent to us allies who we have come to trust implicitly in our trade as we have now in times of war. While I still mean to thank your brave Captain who escorted us from the fortress I feel it only proper to ask for a list of the casualties as well so my people can pay their respects." Behind her the other two Mur nodded in agreement. They looked less tense than they had that morning and some of the richer hues of blue had returned to their skin as a result of being behind the lines even for but a few hours. After she had observed the Tal's customs at the dinner table Shuri'den sat down with them to dinner where she was treated to a fairly modest portion, especially for a Tal, which even despite it's modesty was still more than she herself could eat in a single sitting. However out of respect for her hosts she did her best picking at the strange combinations of Shorewalker vegetables and meats. Unlike her own people's food the flavours were richer and the scents muskier. The cuts of meat were thicker though more succulent and as a result she had little to compare it to. Later during the meal she found a moment to discuss her plans for her people with the Brigadier General and shifted into a seat next to him so they could be heard through the evening discussion. "I appreciate your offer of an escort to the border General Trovoski however I don't think that will be necessary. My Seneschal and closest confidante is very protective of me, which I suppose that is why she is so good at her job. If I know her as well as I think I do then arrangements have been made. Mur look out for Mur dear General." She paused a moment looking back towards the fortress with a frown. "Still I do not have the time to to skirt this conflict as four warships of ours lie off of the Southern Coast under the command of a very fearsome Stormdaughter. I shudder to think what might happen if ill news finds it way to her, unlike you Shorewalkers we Mur cannot afford to be drawn into a war. As such we are like to depart in a day or so.... which brings me to matters of trade General. We have risked much to deliver this first shipment of materials across the continent as a symbol of our nations friendship for which I would like to see the rewards of this investment. I ask you general have you any slaves in your camps? Particularly those known by your people as 'Ant's'? If so I would very much like to have them." "That means Sir Isaac Newton is the deadliest son-of-a-bitch in space." - Unnamed Gunnery Chief, The Citadel
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2016.01.19 00:44:00 - [287] - Quote ...... On the Southern Seas Of the many aspects of Mur culture that are alien to the outsiders perhaps the most alien is how the Mur view the oceans of the world. Unlike those they call the Landborn or even Shorewalkers the oceans are not simply a vastness of salt water but instead a plane upon which they can commune with their Gods. Kalya of the Whorl above in the blue heavens, M'kke in the winds, below slumbers Lao Lahuna of the Whorl in pitch darkness, while raging across the world writhes Vinnetir, all of which lie below the star where Rohe and Hina circle around each other endlessly. It is in these aspects of nature the Mur can see their Gods. M'kke when the wind blows, Vinnetir when the seas heave. Tammari'sen had now witnessed the fury of her God twice. Mere days after Man'tiel and the Shalvyian woman had left for the North Tal-Man the Southern Coasts of the Giant Nation was rocked by violent storms and swells of such impetus that the three great warships from their moorings and cast them out onto the open oceans to be subject to the full ire of the elements. The oceans became monstrous beyond her eyes. The skies burst open as Kalya wept for the children we would lose and M'kke screamed her defiance at the stormfront as squalls that clashed with the dark clouds overhead. Even the normally taciturn Lao Lahuna stirred in the inky fathoms of the Depths opening passages to him realm in the oceans boiling surface and all the while it seemed as though Vinnetir himself had walked amongst them lashing their ships with sleeting rains and striking their masts with bolts of lightning. After a mere hour the Squall, a three masted vessel the like which the world would never see again it all its days, foundered upon the precipice of a great whirlpool nearly half a mile across. It's hull wailed in despair before it too was dragged into the Deeps and dashed against the ocean floor. In that moment Tammari'sen had seen the arm of Lao Lahuna made manifest as the roiling waves as they wrapped themselves around the ship casting Mur from the decks and snapping the keel in twain. Days later after a period of calmness the fleet was beset again by unrelenting winds and tides. Here it was that the two storm systems clashed and in the sight of Gods warring against one another the crew the Brinicle were gripped by the madness of the ocean and mutinied turning their weapons against the Maelstrom and engaging them in combat. While the both ships had survived the combat the crew of the Maelstrom had not fared so well and would have perished had she not turned her Authorities upon the mutineer's and scattered their constituent atoms to the winds. What had happened to the fourth and final ship in the fleet none knew for it had vanished from the horizon days passed in a haze and had not been heard from since. By the time Tammari'sen had brought the Maelstrom back to harbour they would hear that the Brinicle had escaped and sailed east and was reaving a path along the Paric coasts. By the time the Maelstrom made its way back into the harbour it looked more like a ship of ghosts than mortals with tattered sails, rigging flying like festival streamers in the wind, and hull scorched and blackened by cannon fire and lightning strikes. Hundreds if not thousands of were drowned and the survivors cowed into shocked silence waiting for Man'tiel and Shuri'den'shalvys to return. "That means Sir Isaac Newton is the deadliest son-of-a-bitch in space." - Unnamed Gunnery Chief, The Citadel
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2016.01.20 23:18:00 - [288] - Quote ......... In the Skadian Isles Adelya stood before the Coral Throne, concealed within the aperture of the grand conch that mantled the city of Errecist, clad in the scaled plate segments of the Murguard enjoying the cool touch of steel upon her skin rather than that horrid Maera. Before her had come two representatives of her people. The artificers whose expertise had produced the first Fabricae, arcane tools that had formerly only been capable of simple tasks, and a representative of the Navy. One had brought terrible news from the continent while the other perhaps the greatest in terms of the Murfolk's modern achievements. "And so only the Maelstrom remains in the sound Seneschal." The Naval Officer repeat for a second time. "The rest have been lost or turned to piracy. We must do something to prevent such a disaster again lest the other nations see this as a weakness." "I am well aware of this Captain but you offer me no solutions at this time." Replied Adelya barely bothering to look up from the blade of her axe. Politics bored her to death and she'd much rather have been drilling soldiers. However Shuri'den had trusted her to lead their nation in her absence. "Tell me more of this discovered Enala. This engineering you speak of." She continued turning to the artificer. "With pleasure your.... um.... Seneschal-ship. Before I begin you have to understand the premise behind the technology. Since their discovery we have relied on Shapers to provide us with their talents in the development of our society. This has placed a great burden upon them as their Authorities have been called upon in ever increasingly more complex sequences to achieve our needs. The Fabricae we're initially designed to simplify these processed by reducing multi-sequence tasks to single sequences however they still suffered from a single design flaw, a Shaper would always have to be present to supply a source of energy." Enala cleared her throat before continuing. "With the discovery of a new mineral lining the walls of the Pascan Trench we determined they have the property to store and emit the Authorities themselves which in turn we have now employed as energy sources for more modern fabricae. Through experimentation with these new storage devices I now believe we have created something that might soon bring us alongside their 'industry' yet is entirely unheard of by these landbord species." Adelya nodded, finally looking up. "Good. I believe we have a solution to the Navy's concerns Captain, and it lies in the development of this resource. What do you call this technology Enala?" "Presently it lacks a name..... though we Artificers are referring to it as Magi-technology." "That means Sir Isaac Newton is the deadliest son-of-a-bitch in space." - Unnamed Gunnery Chief, The Citadel
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2016.01.22 00:19:00 - [289] - Quote ...... Over Dinner Shuri'den'shavlys offer the general a soft smile as she weighed the risks of remaining at the forefront of this foreign war with her companions and people. After a moment of slowly chewing on one of vegetable indigenous to the Tal-Man provinces she nodded her head. "I will wait though I must ask you to send a rider tonight. If our ships in the South decide we have been too long gone they may attack the ports in the South. Should this be allowed to happen the resistance by the Cauti shall only grown more fierce." The meal arrayed before her had been sumptuous and far more than she or any of her kin had been able to consume in a single sitting and for a moment she felt self conscious that she had not chosen to garb herself in a Maera to conceal her stomach. She shifted her chair around so it was facing the General and reclined back into it with a cup of wine in hand. Tal made wonderful wines quite unlike anything her own people could produce, fruity, heady, and above all crisp to the taste. "I shall take however many of the Ant's as our goods will barter us, General. We shall take any youths or virile stocks of breeding age that can be mustered on short notice. Further more I should like at least one male and one female from those of the older generations whom remain capable of travel." Content that the negotiations had been handled in a mutually beneficial manner, that she would gain much from the acquisition of the Artugans and that such a deal would not compromise the Tal war economies, returned the conversation to more amicable subjects hoping to learn more of the general, of the soldier whom had saved her people, and course Ambassador Grey and the ruler of this nation. The conversation and song seemed to do a wonder and her people had stepped away from the table, the male member of the group to strike up a lively tune on a flute while the woman whom had spent many hours talking with Ruslan sang one of the Tal-Man song she had heard around the camp. "My people also find yours quite agreeable, given our relatively recent arrival to the continent the respectful and peaceful manner with which you have treated our people is appreciated. A great many Mur expressed an interest in attending tonight's festivities, a curious number of our females mentioned you specifically, it was difficult turning them down. Perhaps during our stay you shall allow us to host you and Ruslan for a meal.... We have Kresh and a few other delicacies from the Isles sequestered away in our stores." "That means Sir Isaac Newton is the deadliest son-of-a-bitch in space." - Unnamed Gunnery Chief, The Citadel
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2016.02.02 00:39:00 - [290] - Quote .......... In the Warcamps Shuri'den simply smiled and began to clap along politely to the foreign melody the Mur had struck up. What an incredible species these Mur, her children, were that they we so open to inspiration and change when just this morning they had looked so utterly shocked by the unfamiliar sound of explosions. "Very well General." She replied during a pause in the performances. "I will wait.... and tomorrow we will host you. It's rather likely that the Mur attending will be in greater numbers than those you've yet seen. Just..... try to keep your wits about you tomorrow evening. Mur can be... somewhat lacking your conventional Shorewalker sensibilities." An hour later she retired back to the small tent to rests while the other two sung and danced long into the night. She awoke some hours later a little after dawn to the sounds of a drum beating over far over distant rows of tents and armouries bearing all manner of siege equipment. Platoons of riflemen a heavily armoured linebreaker infantry thundered between the tents as armour was hurriedly fastened over their rumpled uniforms and sergeants barked orders. Curious and unsure of what the commotion was about Shuri'den dressed quickly into a common looking Maera of dull green that fastened loosely around the shoulders. She was thankful for the modest covering as she wandered through the encampment remembering her embarrassment from the previous night. By the time she made it to the General's command tent Ruslan was already marching a filthy looking company of Mur led by a man she recognised as Kal'm into the tent. Their scale and chitin armour looked dishevelled covered in what appeared to be thick black oil or tar stains, the kind that polluted the river between them and the castle to the South which her people had in all likelihood had to pass through to reach the camps. She darted over to them and introduced the leader of the company to General Trovoskii explaining that this was likely the company sent to escort her and her people back to the South where their ships were waiting. She also then explained to Kal'm that they were awaiting fourteen Artugan slaves, though she was careful to use the term Ant which caused Kal'm to scowl but nod along submissively. After they were dismissed the Mur company set up camp just outside of the main Tal-Man barracks and idled the day away preparing the same earthen steam pits they had when they had hosted Lord Coenwulf. By nightfall the shapers had lashed rocks to a soft cherry red and the pools of purified water was bubbling and hissing with glee. The scent of steamed seafood and Sy'Thal greens wafted over the camp and lyrical tunes unique to the Isles and felicitous to informal dancing sprung up as soldier and civilian Mur alike too up instruments. Looking out across the spectacle Shuri'den sighed. This joy would never last if her people were dragged into war and conflict with the Islanders. As she wove her way between the steaming pits surrounded by Mur she could hear everything they said. The woman from the previous night who had spent the evening hours talking with Ruslan thought she might like to have him for a bond-mate one day, a musician named Pel'a aspired to play for Shorewalker royalty, while dozens of other wished for home or to protect their Shalvyian leader. She sighed again went to greet their guests. "That means Sir Isaac Newton is the deadliest son-of-a-bitch in space." - Unnamed Gunnery Chief, The Citadel

True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2016.02.05 00:49:00 - [291] - Quote ..... In Burtgun News of Za'harr's arrival in Burtgun spread like wildfire amongst the Mur who managed to catch sight of the strange leonine creature as they worked on the docks. Rumours of a strange Ba'shui that walked on two legs and stalked in a regal fashion behind his Osmarii guides soon found their way back to Mish'enne, whom despite not being a Shaper like her mentor was the Mur Kal'm trusted the most to lead their people in his absence. Intrigued she made preparations to present herself and her people before the new species, the discovery of which sent her people into a frenzy of activity and excitement as hundreds petitioned her to join her for what she hoped would be an historic meeting. She instead called upon the two only two Stormdaughters present in the city, Sch'al and Can'ti. Since their arrival in Burtgun these two had established themselves as courtesans and quickly found their services in the employ of Burtgun's largest and wealthiest h brothel. Their command of the Authorities as well as their respected position of eminence amongst Mur society would serve her well in the presence of the Queen and this odd Ba'shui. As and her entourage made their way into the Queen's antechamber she could not help but wonder what kind of people these leonine creatures were. Her thoughts drifted back to the indigenous shore cats of the Sy'Thal Isles though she was told these oddities were much broader of build and shared the ubiquitous humankin physique. As they approached a courtier asked their names and business to which she replied. "I am a student of Kal'm who in his absence has left me to represent the Sy'thal and South Seas Mur, with me are Sch'al and Can'ti. We have come to pay our respects to Queen Fairwinds and are curious to see if the rumours.... are true. If a Ba'shui..... a... people broader than a Shorecat who walk on two legs have truly has come to these lands." "That means Sir Isaac Newton is the deadliest son-of-a-bitch in space." - Unnamed Gunnery Chief, The Citadel
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 21	Posted - 2016.02.09 20:48:00 - [292] - Quote ...... at the foot of the Osmarii Throne. "What is a Cat-a-rahct?" Cant'i murmured from behind Mish'enne in Murrish her exotic, lyrical accent colouring the words causing her to pronounce the name of the Bash'ui's species incorrectly. Mish'enne stifled a chortle as a moment later her Stormsister, Sch'al, corrected her in the Osmar speech. Only after the Queen had finished her announcements and proclaimed a feast be held to welcome their new guests did the intermediate Mur diplomat take the opportunity to approach the throne and offer her greeting to both members of royalty. "I am humbled to stand before the Queen Fairwinds and strengthen the bonds and of courtesy and trust between the Mur of Sy'Thal and the South Seas and you who were born of the lands but love the oceans. I am Mish'enne, a student of Kal'm, who in his absence has inherited the duty of representing our people in Burtgun... such as it is we are most curious about the arrival of your allies whom you call Cathay'Raht." She turned and eyed Za'harr flicking her crescent bladed tail impatiently. Then nodded to Cant'i and Sch'ael who produce small bronze vessels, attached to each is a tiny glass vial with a stopper, from within their Maera. "Your species of new to us King and we have never come across a Bash'ui or Shorecat who walks as you do. As such we have brought you both a gift of pure mountain water from a spring that feeds the Mur lake as well as oil that these two have offered of themselves. We would hope you accept them." Having offered due respect to the Queen Sovereign and to the customs of the courts Mish'enne allowed the Stormdaughters to distract the Queen and present their gifts while she wandered over to the King. Za'harr had and intimidating bearing but Mish'ene did not let that stop her from poking and prodding at the king with a Murrish curiousity inspecting the razor sharp claws, leonine mane, and broad build. "Welcome to the continent King Za'harr, I welcome you as a species that has come from an Island Nation." She offered the King with a genuine smile, inadvertently revealing two rows of pointed teeth. "We're our true representative, Kal'm, here I think he would have done as I have. We look forwards to learning more about you." Waves that dye the land gold. Blessed breath to nurture life in a land of wheat. A path the Sef descend drawn in ash.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 22	Posted - 2016.02.15 00:29:00 - [293] - Quote ....... In the Royal Throne Room After having greeted Za'harr and the Queen and offered each a gift of mountain water from the Isles as well as a vial of Oil from each of the two Stormsisters Mish'enne and her retinue left the castle and returned to their accommodations by the docks. They were curious about the Cathay'Raht and would investigate them further. She was unsure if Za'harr had meant her people when he had made his joke about hunting though had made no mention of her concerns to any of her kin. Kal'm would return soon and she would seek his council. Under the glow of the lant-ray light her shark-like features were a mixture of concern and excitement. ........ In the Tal-Man Warcamps The evening celebrations were a great success and Shuri'den was glad to welcome General Trovoski, Ruslan, and a few other of his officers. Steamed phrsam, kresh, and other Sy'Thal delicacies were handed around on trays while music from dozens of instruments filled the air with hopeful tunes. By the time the morning came around and the slaves were delivered to Shuri'den the Mur had packed their camp up and readied themselves for travel. Accompanied by some three hundred and fifty of her people they set their course South and skirted around the No Man's Land between the two armies lest they be caught in some altercation between the forces. Two hours into the journey Shuri'den called the company to a halt. Chained together in pairs before her were the Artya and Artyee their supplies had bought, a small number admittedly but they would be enough for now. Calling upon her Authorities she tore the chains and heavy manacles to pieces casting them to the ground. Many of the Artugia howled and threw themselves on the ground in fear, some beat their breasts lamenting that they'd been sold into the service of new monsters, while the Elders looked on impassively. Taking control of the situation Shuri'den placed a closed fist over her heart and bowed to them before she spoke in their native language. "May strong winds grant you all good fortune whether you be of Durna, or Drishna, or of the Accursed. I ask you not to fear us Artya and Artyee of Mar'Thal for my kin and I have crossed many seas and lands to bring you back to your homes and mean you no harm. Your Ancestor K'lo named us the 'Ones of the Sea' for when we emerged on the shores of your home that is how your people found us. The Great Leader Bloody Jon has welcomed us and taught us of your people so that we might both learn together and grow, fostering bonds of trust and kindness between us. You were made slaves by the laws of the 'Tall Ones'. Now by my laws you are made free one more to return to your homeland. To do that I ask that you come with me to the sea, the endless salt water, and cross it as my kin have taught your to do. Let your claws regrow, let your spirits heal, and then we shall see you home. Come then and do not stray from me." Waves that dye the land gold. Blessed breath to nurture life in a land of wheat. A path the Sef descend drawn in ash.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 22	Posted - 2016.02.18 00:46:00 - [294] - Quote ..... In Tal'Man "K'lo did not mention that the Durna were such an ungrateful tribe that they would cast aside thought for those who saved them from slavery, beatings, and humiliation and then put them at risk. I cannot allow it even if you are an elder and represent your tribe. If you go now as your are then I am afraid you will die, de-clawed and weak." Shuri'den's tone contained a hardness of tone that belayed the concern she felt for the Artugia and of course her own people lest they suffer retaliatory attacks from the enraged Tal. "Return homes, let the claws of these young ones regrow, and their bodies grow strong again. Elda... if you send these young ones to battle as weak as they are who will pass their hides onto their families and tribe or set their skulls upon the great leaders throne as is your custom? None here will do this. They will leave your skin to rot and bones to bleach in a foreign land, ancestorless. As Great Leader of my people I have shown the courtesy to observe your culture, now you will show the same courtesy for mine. I have not crossed oceans, the borders of my domain, and battlefields under fire to be denied, nor will I stand by it to be treated as commonly as you might one of those storm sluts..." TBC Waves that dye the land gold. Blessed breath to nurture life in a land of wheat. A path the Sef descend drawn in ash.
True Adamance Praetoriani Classiarii Templares Praetoria Imperialis Excubitoris 22	Posted - 2016.02.28 21:04:00 - [295] - Quote .....In Tal-Man "Good' Shuri'den'shalvys murmured knowing that the Elda Artugia had accepted the only path she had left open to them. It pained her greatly to do so but ensuring these ones lived to take their tales back to Artugia benefited her as well as she hoped would improve relations between the two peoples. "If you are set on your course Elda there are many things you will need to know about this world of ours. While you recover we would be honour bound to tell you what we have learned of the continent and their peoples for our trip across the seas will take many days." ..... In Mihal Mo'q's runner found Csh'te resting in the small tropical pond just outside of the main encampment. At the young Artugian's request she gathered what few belongings she carried with her and attended his summons. His concern seemed justified to her. The new Great Leader, a former protege of Bloody Jon, could not have been a popular successor to the Throne of Skulls after the Council's plan to summon a Dark Ancestor had back fired and only served to cement Mila's popularity amongst the mainstream tribes. "How should we act Mo'q?" Csh'te asked curiously from amongst the circle of Artya and Artyee, falling to a knee and offering him a dramatic and sweeping bow. "A daughter of storms lives to serve." With Sia'tri gone to the Southern Mur settlements she was starting to enjoy herself. ..... In Mar'Thal That very night a single Mur swam back to the beach near Mar'Thal led by Sia'tri who had come to be known as the Firewalker amongst his own kin as something of a living legend. Spurred on by his example the Mur had welcomed Artugians into their settlements in the South and lived alongside them quite happily. Using the hidden winches he entered the city and made for the Great Leader's hall. When he came upon the guards stationed there he said. "Please tell your Great Leader Sia'tri Firewalker has returned to the city to lend his aid.... also if anyone knows the whereabouts of Csh'te, one of our Priestesses, please have them seek me out. But ask carefully because she is extremely dangerous in her own right. Waves that dye the land gold. Blessed breath to nurture life in a land of wheat. A path the Sef descend drawn in ash.

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