I will you sand loving savage! Behold! I am Alixenus, Lord-lieutenant of the Venezzian trade guild! You have raided our convoys one too many times and we have come to put an end to it. Using our maritime powers we shall use firehoses and supersoakers to turn your desert to quicksand (strength: water). I know you cannot resist us for my scouts tell me you lack the tech to create even the most basic thermal or incindiary weaponry to burn our war machines with (weakness: fire). En guarde bandit!

This is the reason we will destroy you when dust reaches null sec

I, Vermaak kuvalei, leader of Reaper Nation shall commute your rural areas to scraps (strength: non modernized land) as I see you've very few urban areas (weakness: concrete jungles) and the one you do have is hardly defended, surrender or die

Lol no, any unmodernized land counts as rural ( jungle, desert, swamp, etc.)

(Strength: fire) (weakness: places without flammable gas)

Go to the War Room for this

SANDROMIN!!! You traitorous wretch! I depart on a trade run for a few days after concluding an alliance with and this is what I come back to? Making and breaking friendships with Kuvakei and the tundra men against me! You will pay for this. As for your allies, I give them this one chance to stand down or they shall drown with you!

Terrain: Water, deep enough to float at least a boat.
Strengths: Water, Metal (does that count as Urban?) and Mountains (stone)
Weakness: Fire, Desert and Jungle (or Forrest if Jungle doesn't count)

Income: The trading middle men between nations, collects most currencies from tariffs but prefers to use Florins.

Special: Able to use retrofitted trade ships to carry out an amphibious landing, saturating an area with an excessive amount of heavy infantry in a short time span. However this is a shock and awe tactic and the infantry will have to depart once their objective is acheived.

Well given your tendancy to stab people in the back, I say we limit the alliance to trade and mutual military assistance. You and your forces will not be allowed to travel through Venezzian lands or vice versa. If you can handle an agreement of this magnitude, I might agree to opening an embassy in your lands. I take it Kuvakei is our third member?

Well water is certainly valuble at sea and Gold is always valuable. I accept your offers. In return Venezzia offers Metal goods such as tools and weapons, various woods and Timbers, wine and Artwork, assuming you have any permanent structures in your desert.

Due to our generally peaceful nature, we do not react until the rabbit meat starts raining down on us. Then, as our comrades die left and right, paralyzed by the cuteness of the rabbits (even chunks of rabbit meat) then crushed by stone and fire, unable to heal each other with out super healing powers, I run. I gather a small group of Logipriests and run. Straight towards the Venezzian convoy. When they see us, naked except for a loincloth, they laugh. Until we began chanting. Meaningless, really. Who has ever heard of chanting being able to cause catastrophic damage to a giant rabbit catapult? But it seemed to have worked. All weaponry was directed at us. The ominous rumbling signalled the release of the water turrets. We closed our eyes and hoped.

And hope prevails! With a yodelling battle cry, the remains of the logipriest nation, freed from the paralytic rabbit meat in the brief pause of the unrelenting barrage, swung from vines into the midst of the Venezzians, and using vines as ropes and tickling tools, they disabled the catapult. However, we could not do much against the wall of water roaring towards us. So, we braced ourselves and continued to tickle the Venezzians until both sides were swept up in the torrent.

Uh, I think that means its a tie? :D

I would call it a tie aswell.

Not let me tell you what happened from a Venezzian perspective. The convoy arrayed itself parallel to your shores and gagued the distance to your closest settlements by firing the water turrets high into the air. When we heard people complaining about rain on the wind, we knew we had the range. The Caravels then began uprooting trees with the water turrets in preparation for a colony while the Cog fired an opening Salvo of Salted Rabbit. To be honest, we weren't expecting it to have such a paralytic effect. Unnerving yes, but not paralytic. When no replay came we began firing stone and fireballs, expecting an easy victory. I even broke out a bottle of port as I watched the landing craft being lowered. But then I saw you and your band of madmen, your strange chanting carrying on the wind. The Cog, it's crew being well trained, were already sizing you up for a fireball.

But then we were undone. The fireball was already lit when they began aiming at you. Just as the catapult was about to let fly, the deck caught alight, forcing to crew to begin firefighting (Fire, as you know, is one of Venezzia's weaknesses). It was this lull that allowed your people to counter attack. How your jungle vines reached our ships, I will never know. But before I knew it you were among us. Natives, sailors, builders, marines and the heavy infantry intended to defend our new colony, all joined in a massive melee on the deck of my ship. I saw a great many of your people reduced to naught but Jelly by the swing of a warhammer, or peppered with steel shot. But then my men fell to your vines, tickling their way between the plates of our armour.

The captain of the lead Caravel pannicked and turned his turrets on the rest of the flotilla. We thought the ship was lost and responded in kind. By Day's end, we were all clinging to sunken wrecks.

Well my logipriests retreat to tend to our wounded in our jungle. Disease is spreading... apparently the rabbit meat catapult wasn't launching fresh kill. Typical of traders, really. Sending faulty goods to express distaste.

Also, treasure hunters begin to raid our leafy abode because of a rumour that massive fortunes lie buried in our soil. We, being inhabitants of the forest ever since many of the trees were saplings, cannot confirm these rumours; however, our ancestors were been pirates who decided to bunk down in the forest and give up their plundering ways. Perhaps they also buried their loot. Who knows. Perhaps, the pirates sighted off our shores are related to the pirates who buried this treasure. Perhaps there was a map. Perhaps a puzzle.

Whatever the reason, invasion seems imminent, and our sacred forest may not survive. Coupled with disease and the recent conflict, add a touch of humid, stifling weather, and the logipriest nation will be severely weakened.

Weak enough for any force to crush, manipulate, or enslave...

Weak enough for a sympathetic party to rescue.

What will happen? Stay tuned for the next episode of "The Ultimate Forum Passing-Time Meta-Game RPG Thing for Dust 514 w/ a Ridiculously Long Name... IV"

Dun dun duuun.

Sandromin, Vyzion, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to kill two birds with one stone. When I and my crew finally rowed back to Venezzia, the Trade guild was furious with me for such a titanic failure against the Logipriests. I thought my career was over, but then you, Sandromin, sent word of the Pirates. The next day, I hear rumours of treasure hunters planning on plundering the Logipriests. It took many hours, but I convinced the trade guild to endorse my plan.

First, I will locate these pirates who raid our trade lanes and pay them bountiful sums to sail to the Logipriest jungle and attack all the Privateers they find docked there. The Jungle will be saved and the pirates will be sated by the loot they find from one another.

Any questions?

We will be South, at the base of our highest peak.

We will bring merchants, smiths, and our diplomats. We thank your generosity of the escort, but we have our own.

Xavier himself will not be there, for he has pressing matters to attend to.

May I ask the name of your society? I heard it was called the Merchant Guild?



[Out of Character] OP, could you please make a map of sorts, so we could get a good layout of Dustia? Also, could you also make a list of all the Nations? Many thanks.[/Out of Character]

Are we limited to this map or is there room for expansion?

Darn, this completely circumvents the rest of my strategy. The trade guild shall not be pleased to hear about this...

Oh goody, a free sword. I don't think the Dwarves will be very pleased when they hear you struck Adamantium. You may want to keep that quiet

It seems that the Trade Guild's messenger pigeon has been struck down by lightning.

In the mean time let's communicate with Sandromin!

[message]We could supply that stone for you, Sandromin.

But of course we would like something in return...

A modest supply of your Adamantium Ore, perhaps?[/message]

Done. Expect a convoy in the next two weeks.

I would like to establish a permanent trade rout with you, Sandromin.

It would be beneficial to both of us, we give you an abundance of stone and in return you give us some of your difficult-to-find desert minerals.

What do you say?


A new nation? Well, the only vehicles that us humble nations have, to my knowledge, are chariots. I don't see why you would need them. No wars going on now.

You thought that you could keep this trade agreement with the Dwarves hidden from the Trade guild? No matter, we have a counter offer. We have modest quarries in the foothills of the Dwarven mountains. We could quite easily send Stone to you by ship. We have an established trade route and I'm certain our ships could handle the additional load. While I admit that the Dwarves could provide the Stone in much vaster quantities, they would have to haul it over land, through desert, trying to find you amongst the shifting dunes. All the while with a thick beard and a heavy Goatskin coat.

All the guild asks in return is a modest increase in Trade tariffs and some of your strange desert spices.

Agreed. Venezzia is secure from Golem tunnels for the most part on account of the fact that most of the city's foundations are in the sea. I have been eavesdropping on what Merchants I can get close to. Many favour appeasement and negotiation, some even suggest siding with our foes to end the hostilities. I can't say I'm suprised; they think of their coin purses first and Venezzia second.

Do not judge them unfairly. By our laws the merchants are allowed their armies to defend trade routes and to break blockades, it is the duty of the ruling council to make war on behalf of the City. But the council does nothing and our merchants have great influence over the council. If they say negotiate, the council will negotiate. As if that were not enough I have heard rumours that there are those who are planning a coup against the council!

As a Lord Lieutenant my resources are vast, but not limitless. I can investigate these rumours or 'persuade' the pro-peace merchants, but I cannot do both. Tell me, friends, what should I do?

[OOC I am not trying to compete for the roll of Game master here, just trying to flesh out my backstory]

This is a big decision. You have time to mull over it. But my troops, nonetheless, stand ready to assist you.

Sandromin's plan seems the most feasible. I will go ahead with it, no more time can be wasted. There should still be some Privateers lying around the cost of the Logipriest nation. See if you can rope them in to help you. In the meantime I will muster my heavy infantry to bolster the guard around my compound and inform my tennants to cease their militia duties, to keep them out of any violence. Once this is done I will start drawing up a convincing plan to stop your 'pirates' for public presentation.

...

Excuse me gentlemen, I could've sworn I just heard the sound of a battering ram hitting my front door.

Any doubts I had about this plan have gone out of the window now!
* Grabs his horn from his belt and blasts out the rallying signal*
There's an abandoned perimeter fort not far from here. I will raise my pennant there so that my men know where to find me.
*Hands a bag of gold and a scroll to the Sandman*
Give these to the town crier in pyerlanze square. It's the one with the clocktower. Tell him to read it in the afternoon address.
Dwarf, I thank the Liberator for his assistance and that he can direct any funds from the privateers to the fort.

If they want a war, they shall have it.

Guards at the Southern dock is strange, it's in the centre of the city; only common goods pass through there. You may call me paranoid, but I believe our enemy is expecting a delivery at those docks. But if he's trying to disguise it as a normal shipment, why the guards? We can't intercept it, the waters around the city are too open, it could come in with any convoy at any time.

The only other explanations are that a crime occured or that is the escort of someone of import. Hm, but why the southern docks?

So we have Golems, NPC industrials & Reapers Awol. To top it off we have Venezzia on the brink of civil war because you can't manage your subordinates? Have I got that right?

Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat. If he has not learnt that maxim during his time in the desert then he shall be defeated again. By us, together. My heavy infantry and the skirmishers attached to them have arrived to the fort along with their various camp followers. The cavalry is trying to leave but apparently there's some sort of paperwork issue. That's not a real concern. Besides, if fighting breaks out in the city streets Horses will likely be no more than a hazard.

Do you have any idea on how we can draw this Armok out of hiding?

"Alixenus , Alixenus! A message!"

[message]We need to end this soon, Alixenus. We cannot draw this out. Your men are tiring, the people are starving. I will send a dwarven platoon to aid the base. Spies will also be sent, but they will try to sniff out Armok. Do not worry, we will be as stealthy as a fox. And the pirates, Alixenus. You need to 'capture' them, perhaps it will be your first accomplishment as Supreme Ruler?


Post Script: Have you heard about the Logi Priests? Apparently most of them have turned into 'walking corpses', or 'zombies.' We must do something about this. Hopefully this is not contagious?[/message]

"But of course! A platoon is already in the fortress."

Xavier quickly writes a letter and hands it to the messenger.

"Go. Give this to my commanding officer. He is stationed at the fort."

Ah, Sandromin, the World Policeman. Always fixing everyone's problems. I don't know have you do it.

I have 4-5 platoons going to Alixenus' area. Wait for me, I will sent an expeditionary force to the Badlands as well.

In the meantime, could you please tell me about the Archnecromancer? I say I have not even heard of it.

*The mist lifts, his hands still clenched in a fist. Teeth grit, next twist, to look for who's coming next. But there's none left, all around I'm surrounded by death, save a Doge kneeling down in respect*

"Lord lieutenant, why have you done this thing and made war against your own people?"
"I did this for the people, excellency, far more than you, the council or the merchants were willing to do."
"What will you do with me now?"
"Now? Now you ill order your men to stand down. Then you shall decide to retire from public life, as will the council"

*Before the Doge can answer a siege bolt flies through his head, sending him hurtling across the Palazzo de Venezzia. Alixenus turns to see who fired the shot. It was Armok, who casts down the siege bow and draws his weapon*

"Venezzia is mine you peasant!"
"No, Venezzia is for Venezzians. As you will soon find out."
"What? Are you going to kill me? Alone? The Doge's men still hold this square, the fact that you and your fellows got through to drag the Doge out is a testament to the incompetence of your people"
"Yes, I am going to kill you"

*Alixenus draws his Hamaxe and starts walking toward Armok, but falls due to his injured leg. Armok laughs, but abruptly stops when Alixenus picks himself up and builds to an almighty charge toward him*

Alixenus struggles to reply whilst locked in combat with Armok

"No! He killed my Doge! Turned my nation...against itself! He has killed my people and is...in my city! He is....Mine!"

He pauses to duck a savage blow which causes him to fall over. Alixenus then rolls to evade more strikes before getting to his feet.

"Your honour may demand that you kill him, but so does mine!"

Alixenus then unslings his tower shield and flings it at Armok. Before Armok can recover Alixenus charges in and breaks the front legs of his steed with his hamaxe. Whilst Armok struggles from his fallen mount, the weary Lord lieutenant turns to Sandromin.

"What are you even doing here? I didn't send for reinforcements, I was trapped in the command post."

Meanwhile, Xavier at his palace, 4.00PM

*Xavier speaking with his advisors*

"Yes... yes... but if we do this, then..."

*Door bursts open. The two spies walk in.*

Xavier stands and looks surprised. He motions to his advisors.

"Leave, Now."

The Advisors swiftly get up and leave.

Xavier looks into the Spies' eyes. "What of Armok?"

"Dead."

"Hmmmm. I see. Armok is dead. That, complicates things. Dismissed."

The two spies quickly scuttle away.

*Xavier screams in a fit of rage, banging his hand on the table.*

"Now, what? Armok was a brilliant strategist. He could of helped me... Why, he could of helped me take down Sandromin!"

*Bangs hand again*

"No matter, there are others." He looks to the Logipriest Islands.

"No, too...unpredictable."

[OutofCharacter]Please not that none of you actually heard this; this is just to flesh out my character more.[/OutofCharacter]

By the time you read this I will have set sail for the badlands. I do not know when I will arrive, or where on that continent I will land, save for it being somewhere on the nothern half. This necromancer had better be as grave a threat as you say, or else I am putting Venezzia in great peril for no reason at all!.

Sandromin's battle turns up less epic than he had expected when a piercing blue light flashes blinding both him and his troops. By the time they regain their sight they see only a man wearing an astonishing complex armor of white. Many components being crystal that emit a blue aura similar to before. He silently approaches.

What brings you to the edge of the earth? Well I suppose you can't perceive what is truly around you. However before any proper introductions I must ask a question. Do you come with intentions of peace or hostility? A fair warning, if you were to choose the latter, you would soon regret your decision.

Archnecromancer? Ah I see. You must be misinformed. The Archnecromancer has been dead for quite sometime now. I'm also guessing you haven't ventured this far west before. You may not realize it but you've endangered yourself and anyone who has followed you. Allow me to introduce myself. I am King Thanatos of Diyad. If you'd do me the pleasure of accompanying me to my kingdom I could better explain your situation. Also if you would excuse my earlier threat. You see people don't tread these lands anymore and when I see you approaching with an army, plus your allies parading in from the distance. It's only logical that I'd take an aggressive stance.

[whole post is OOC]

I love it, I don't recall ever doing something like this and it's highly enjoyable, reading through the threads woven by your fellow writers and watching how their strands are affected by yours.

I suppose we lost the "for DUST 514" thing a while ago but in essence, we're still with it. The whole idea of a universe captured in a universe is present in our story, right? Of fighters, fighting for fighters, who are fighting for the big wigs, who see the deaths of millions as merely the loss of a pawn on their grand chessboard.

The little stories of battles, such as the scrabble between Alixenus and Armok, and then the panning out to observe the bigger picture in terms of the whole world, and more importantly, the effect this little battle has had on the universe.

We've captured DUST in an ever evolving universe of our own, gentlemen.

OOC:If we're focusing more on our heroes we should probably note their strengths, weaknesses, special abilities and whatnot. That way we can keep everything a little more organized. It's up to you though Sandromin. If so what format should it be in?

"No Xavier you should return to your people, gather your forces. Try to minimize death. You'll only need to hold out a while longer."

He fiddles with the globe and a flashing light pinpoints the source of the dark magicks in the Logipriest nation.

"It is difficult with only a direction to locate the final piece, but when you narrow it down to a specific area... Well as you can see thanks to you we now know where we're going. Sandromin will come with me. I will send my alkhemist knights to protect his people. Honestly Alixenus is a fool. He came to me looking for an enemy that was already dead. I even invited him to my kingdom. He didn't even ask for my help? How foolish indeed."

As Xavier leaves the palace, Thanatos gestures Sandromin to stand back. Thanatos draws his saber and holds it in the air. Blue alkhemical markings glow from the blade and the floor beneath them begins to shake. Before Sandromin realizes it, the entire room is moving downward. It becomes apparent that it is traveling underground. As Thanatos sheathes his saber he turns to Sandromin.

"Now that I'm sure no one can hear us... There is something alarming I need to discuss with you."

"First of all we need to establish something right now. This is of utmost importance. Are you prepared to become my ally? I say this to you specifically because of all your allies, you are the most trustworthy. Before I became ruler, my kingdom saw dark times. Generations of greed, corruption, and misuse of power has stained our history. And I have worked hard to regain our glory. We weren't supposed to be a secluded nation. Lionus III died 30 years after defeating the AN without an heir. With the loss of such a pivotal figure Parliament took complete control. They censored documents, burned books and cut off ties. Passing off their own as an illegitimate son, to make sure they maintained this power. With my own two hands I ended the Great Civil War that plagued us for two decades. This is our first contact with the outside world in four centuries. And I've chosen to make an ally of you. But will you make one of me. You must choose now."

The room shudders, indicating that its descent is almost finished.

{ooc} I was wondering if it was alright if I could join, I don''t really have a nation Idea but I do have a hero idea that could be interesting so to anyone who reads this and thinks "who is this chump?!" Let me try, please, at least I'm trying right? so here it goes and I also apologize in advance for Alixenus{ooc}

On a hill over watching the advancing Alixenus, a single large silhouette vaguely human stands atop a hill, but a better characterization would be "giant." standing at at least 10 feet tall with massive, powerful limbs and strong wide shoulders, but its body wasn't the only massive thing about it, it was covered head to toe in heavy armor more suited to a siege machine than a man, even equipped with large horns atop its head, much like a bettering ram.

Suddenly without provocation the beast rears it's head back and let's out a bellow as loud and powerful as thunder.
The beast then lowers its head and charges down the hill knocking over a small tree on its way down, a stampede of one charging straight at Alixenus with horns aimed at his chest

{ ooc} sorry I put words in your mouth Alixenus, it's just that you're the only character who I could think of being on a march to your lands, and I also apologize for setting up a place that I made, so again sorry.
P.s. I hope this is alright{ooc}

>Team-R99 reporting. Foreign entities discovered.
>Overseer-R99 replying. Describe foreign entities.
>Entities are humanoid in appearance. With green skin and covered with glowing runes.
>Analyze runes.
>Running image recognition subprogram...
>Accessing languages.db...
>Attempting match...
>Negative, runes do not seem to belong to any documented language.
>Attempt Protocol-C12.
>Affirmative.

And with that, the squad of millitary androids moved in on the logipriests from all directions, phaser rifles set to "stun", and attempting to neutralize and capture their targets for analysis.

OOC Okay Brutus, essentially there's been a zombie apocalypse brewing for a while and it's finally spilled over. Now Sandromin and Thanatos fixed it in a previous post, but my subplot is running slightly behind their's. So we just have to hold out until the Zombies are suddenly roasted in a blinding light from heaven. I was planning on wrapping up this battle in the next post. any objections?

>Team-R99 Leader reporting. Capture attempts unsuccessful. Targets appear to have a defense unit outmatching any of us.
>Overseer-R99 responding. Describe defense unit.
>For the Collective's sake, man, I don't have time for this. Here, I'll take a photo ans send it to you.

The team leader's optics flashed as he took a photo of Brutus, after which he broadcasted to his other teammates:

>New squad order: RUN THE [EXPLETIVE REDACTED] AWAY!

The robots then began a strategic retreat towards base, which of course means to say they ran like the cowards they were.

OOC: if I may just suggest something here. It seemed that Thanatos experienced some form of hallucination while holding the uber book of spells. Perhaps, instead of having Xavier edit the post where he sees sandmen, perhaps he did see sandmen. Sandromin, meanwhile, sees the automatons, reality, while Xavier sees what he wants to see... Because the book teases it out of his mind and makes what he wants reality, but only for him? Something like that. Hopefully you guys see this before editing anything.

Oh I wasn't telling you to stop posting, all of this is actually rather impressive. I was just saying that its kind of annoying that this is the only regularly active thread in the locker room and that not a lot of people post here.

OOC:Definitely. I'm on the forums pretty much all day because for the most part I'm at my computer. I've been waiting for Sandromin to come back so I can slowly reveal more about/ reintroduce my character. Also if Sandromin would be so kind as to give us a universal calender. Like what are the months/days/years called. An era (AD/BC)? If I could have some input on this decision I would be very grateful.
A small package attached to a small paper balloon has arrived at the desert palace of Sandromin after a long journey. A note atop it reads:


"For the eyes of Sandromin only...
Usque ad caelum.Superatus fatum

OOC: 1. The Assembly is in Venezzia Sandromin, wouldn't want you making an unnecessary journey now would we
2. Vyzion I'm assuming now that I've established Fate as an Elder God. So to answer your question yes. However any encounter with her is just her means of manipulating other characters. Her intentions are set in stone and she has no desire to see the mortals win.
3. I'm guessing we're starting to think alike because Sandromin beat me to the Freedom thing. I was hoping to do a Rebirth type thing to kickstart Freedom and Thanatos back into the story.

Despite nearly facing death at the hands of Brutus then Xavier, Alixenus had recovered his composure fairly well. Brutus was crouched by the double doors, watching the scene. He could fit in, but that would make the room unbearably cramped. Xavier had been reminded twice now by his aides to stop reading his book and pay attention to proceedings. The Logipriests were sitting around a small side table, waiting with no small amount of trepidation for what was to happen next. Natyli, however, was still being held sperately in a private room. Alixenus hoped to have that resolved during one of the breaks in the conference.

"Alixenus? Would you care to take the floor?"

The Diyadians had been somewhat sketchy on what the purpose of this conference was, so everyone brought their own ideas. Sandromin and Alixenus were to act as mediators and judges in the event that any negotiations became heated. Alixenus straightened his Robes and stood before the congregation.

"Thank you Sandromin. Your highnesses, Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the City of Venezzia. It is my hope that with this conference we may be able to heal some of the wounds that have recently befell this world and perhaps, with the grace of the Gods, foster new ties of brotherhood between us. Venezzia is a prime example of this. But a few months ago we were ravaged by a brief and bloody civil war, insitgated by Traitorous merchants and a rogue sand Lord. Did we cull these merchants? Did we hold Sandromin responsible? No, we reformed, rebuilt and created a closer unity with our neighbours."

Xavier seemed none too impressed with Alixenus' speech thus far, but he ignored the Dwarf and carried on.

"Change is the way of the world, as is progress. But this should mean that just because things can change does not mean that they have to." He glanced at Duke Vincenzo who was watching from one of the Galleries. "This also should mean that just because something has always been one way, does not mean that that is the best way"

"I will not deny that Venezzia has not been the cause of much woe during recent times, much as it has also suffered at the hands of others. But what's done is done. We have here, in our hands, an opportunity to change this world for the better. I ask you not to squander it."

Alixenus finished but remained standing. He was met with a respectable round of applause for his words. When it died down he spoke again. "With ceremony out of the way, let us begin our work. If there are no objections I would like to open this conference with my agenda" There did not appear to be any outward objections to this. Waiters silently moved around the table, refilling the drinks of the ambassadors.

"Excellent, you will find my agenda in the yellow sheath. I wish to discuss the following. 1: The rights of Venezzian miners in the Lucian foothills. 2: The persistant issue of a race of indutrial barbarians to the south. 3: The rights of the remaining Logipriests and colonisation rights to the Logipriest nation. 4: Trade lane control over the Western sea, particularly to Diyad.
Lastly, formalisation of Venezzia's borders with the Sandmen and Lucia."

So the conference began...

"Order! Order in the hall!" Sandromin's proposal were met with whispers and murmurings, both for fair and ill. Personally, Alixenus loved the idea of bringing Venezzia onto an equal footing with Diyad and this 'collective'. As strong as their soldiers were, and as miraculous as their hydraulic technology was, what could it do against Iron men and flying machines?

"Sandromin, you're proposal has much merit and will be discussed momentarily. But first, I believe the representative of the Collective spoke first" Alixenus turned to look at the camera of the diplomacy unit. He still remembered being ambushed by these things and wasn't too sure how to speak to one. "Representative of the collective, I speak on behlaf of Venezzia when I say we would be more than willing to trade with you. If you could indicate the location of your nearest trade centre to my scribe, he will this information delivered to the Cartographers."

"Returning to the emergence of the one known as Bojo, I move that we said a joint diplomatic mission to him to discove his intentions" Scribes hidden about the hall were writing notes next to various issues: whether they were resolved, whether they needed a vote and so on.

"Next, I am sorry to say Sandromin, that if what you say is true, then there are only 5 logipriests left. 5 can hardly breed to sufficient numbers to maintain their island. Even now, Pirates and, unfortunately, escaped serfs from Venezzia are building towns and ports on the island. At some point, could you explain to me how Logipriest soverignty is to be maintained?"
The Official artist was once again at work, painting the scene with thick oils upon canvas to record this conference for posterity.

"And lastly" he turned to the scribes "Reccord that the motion to create an internation guild of knowledge must be put to a vote before the end of this conference."

Alixenus then sat down, indicating it was time for another to speak.

Sandromin stood.

"In retort to the statement about the logipriests, they still have a race and one leader. And, correct me if I'm wrong, they breed like rabbits as well (sorry about the rabbits reference... I know how much you hate them). Also, there are 6. I have done a headcount you see? Now, as for maintaining their sovereignty... I suggest a coalition force excluding the Venezzians (since you have had prior conflict) to maintain nobody enters the logipriest nation."

"Also, if you cannot keep your men away from the logipriest nation, then it seems you have intrusively invaded their nation. Unless you either renounce their citizenship and force them out of logipriest land, then war has officially been declared. Since they technically have a leader and one representative, their borders are still up until further negotiated."

OOC: I believe it's time for Xavier and Vyzion to speak.

(Ooc) no one posted all day... That's kindava bummer.(ooc)

OOC Apologies folks, I was kept away from the forums by unforseen circumstances. Just reference Brutus, we didn't leave the council buildings, I just sat down in the next room.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
Alixenus sighed, poured himself a glass of Port then handed the bottle to Brutus. As the great men of the world debated the most critical issues of the day, a soldier-turned-politician sat and answered the questions of a Giant. He told Brutus that he just woke up where he fell and saw that only the Logipriests and Brutus were missing after the machines attacked. He assumed that they had both been taken by the machines and tried to follow their tracks for the rest of the day. Come nightfall, he called off the chase and headed back to the city. He said that that night, he walked to a Tavern and drank himself under the table out of Guilt for not being able to find Brutus, and for fear of all the bad fortune that had hit Venezzia.

Then he explained to Brutus how the Water cannons worked. They were built into the city walls and sewer systems. Man and Horse power fill the tanks whilst Tidal flows are channeled to up the pressure inside the chamber. One way valves stopped the water going backwards between waves. When the pressure was high enough, the water forced open the valve in the cannon's barrel and fired at the target. Smaller ones fired Ballista bolts or Rocks. Then he let Brutus in on a little secret: Venezzia had built portable versions of the Guns. Ones that could be used on Land.

Meanwhile, a Scribe caught up with Sandromin in the streets and asked him whether he had forgotten the Diyadian's request to stay in the Hall after the talks ended or he had chosen not to honour their request?

OOC Personally Vyzion I don't feel burnt out, but that's probably due to the fact that you've been writing far more than me. To be honest, our pace has been a little off since the very start, especially with that incident with the PAI. A time lapse is a very radical suggestion indeed as I imagine some people will have grown quite attached to their respective characters and may be quite reticent to start another. I think that there is a very real chance that the conference will continue for another two days in character time, assuming Thanatos doesn't intercede with an epic speech. Alternatively, we could use the deus-ex-machina solution of Fate accelerating the Sun's decay, but that wouldn't provide a break.

I think a total break may actually work. It will give everyone time to take stock of their characters, what they've done and said, where they want to take the character from their and think up new plot points. If we did do this, would everyone be happy holding off till say, March or mid-March?

(Ooc) I was gonna do something special for Brutus' nation. But if we are going to just finish the conference and skip I could just say what happened or maybe me and one other person could keep up a small adventure, seeing as I joined fairly recently and still have quite a few ideas (ooc)

OOC:

Sorry for making it seem as if I'm tired of this. I was trying to make the story as amazing as possible I forgot to simply enjoy the act of writing. I was getting frustrated because all my ideas kept hitting dead ends, and now I realise that all I have to do is write and the rest will figure itself out.

No need to hurry guys, once again, I was getting annoyed at myself for not having ideas, and assumed you guys had the same problem.

Embarrassing, really.

[OOC]I heard you were writing all of this in book form, Sandromin. So is that going so far?[/OOC]


The ambassador agreed to Xavier's proposal, and both of them merrily talked most of the way to the chamber.

Strangely, there were no guards at the doors. The doors were large and golden, they even seemed to shine in the dim light.

No guards, hm? That could only mean one thing; he is meeting someone.

With all his composer, and some gleefulness, he knocks on the majestic, golden doors.

BOOOM!!!!!!!!

BAD FURRY SHOWS UP !!!!

EVERYONE LOSSES ALL THERE TANKS FOR 2 ROUNDS AND CAN NOT CALL IN ANY SUPPORT !!!

IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ANY AV YOU DIE !!!

IF YOU HAVE ONLY AV AND NO TANK REMOVE 5 MEN FROM YOUR PARTY IF YOU DO NOT HAVE MORE THEN 5 YOU DIED !!

OOC Bad Furry? Frakk! I go on other threads so rarely I forgot that guy even existed. Anywho, Xavier, I'd say your description was pretty damn close to what I imagined, though maybe you want to dial back on the pearls a little bit? Gold weapons on the wall do seem appropriate; I wouldn't have thought of gold myself.

Vyzion, as for your tree question I'm not sure what best suits Venezzia. My first thought was an Oak for the shipbuilding but that tree is decidedly English. Next thought was the Olive, but that thing's really quite weedy. Perhaps a Cypress tree, but as to why, I have no clue.
____________________________________________________________________________________________

Panic flashed across Alixenus' face as Sandromin began speaking. He tried to subtly indicate to the Sandman to briefly disappear. Meanwhile he was still holding a conversation with Xavier.
"Grand Liberator, perhaps you didn't hear whilst you were reading that hefty tome, but a technology sharing agreement was already discussed. Around noon I think it was. If the proposal goes through everyone will be sharing their knowledge: you won't need a private alliance for that."

Xavier looked somewhat vexed at this information, but then the collective's ambassador began replaying the conversation in question, which startled all present. Once he realised that the ambassador wasn't possessed or broken, Alixenus walked over to a small mahogany table to refill his Glass.

"Secondly Xavier, my title is Interim Administrator, emphasis on interim. I'm not seizing power nor changing Venezzia's government, I'm just changing who is in power. Politics is a game for the deceitful and greedy, it's on the open seas and city walls where I belong. Can you name even one trait that would make me suitable for running for Doge?"
____________________________________________________________________________________________

At the same time, hastily printed wanted posters were being nailed to the doors of Pubs, to street corners and Herald's posts throughout the city. A tipsy Venezzian butcher, upon exiting the free house turned stumbled across one and paused to read it.

"To the attentions of the people of the City.
Wanted: The Green Witch. Responds to the name of Natyli
Escaped this evening past from the custody of the City.
Hath committed crimes against both the City and our Glorious Republic.
May be in the company of other Green men. These are not to be harmed.
She is to be brought to the Council complex alive for the reward of ONE TALENT's weight of GOLD"

OOC: In this case a Talent is equivalent to 57lbs.

OOC: I'm getting lazy about the map, but I'll have it soon. I just need to actually get off Dust n stuff.

---

The forges had been created. However, most of them were underground, as offshoots of the city. It was becoming a the city it once was; the lights had been turned on, and a large influx of migrants had arrived into the city.

The finest craftsmen had begun the crafting of new weapons and vehicles they had found the design for. They found that the Dorics created a fuel that they uniformly used across all their devices: matur. Matur was formed from the refining of several metals by putting it through a Doric Iyonic processor. Afterwards, melting it down would create a super-iyonic liquid that would then be placed into small battery containers.

This would create a power source bountiful enough for the devices of Doric people. But the new devices required a powerful group of people who would dedicate their life to learning this new knowledge. Soon, the migrants had placed several people to learn about this knowledge. They became philosophers of Dustia; they were the Unravelers. They unraveled the secrets of the universe and they became leaders of the Guild of Thought.

---

Meanwhile, Sandromin was convening within the conference, speaking of his opinions to the people. It was about midday when he saw something...

At first, he thought it was just a person, but he just couldn't stop looking at the person. He was cloaked in a black robe and he walked with an air of purpose. It was as if he had come in from outside, just to announce something important.

Sandromin couldn't think of who he was, but then the man pulled back his hood to reveal his face... And then Sandromin realized who the person was.

The Guild of Thought began the arduous process of creating the Grand Archives. They were creating and ultimate history of the lands, especially of Mediterra. They stumbled upon interesting facts, such as Venezzian ancestry in Diyad, the Doric colonization, the sandmen migration from Barbaria, and even the Tundran expedition.

However, the most interesting fact was of Doric history involving the Dark Arcaneum. The Doric people had received the book from an ancient temple of obsidian deep beneath the earth. They moved the book to their temple, and the process of their downfall began. Their people were forever stained with a madness of epic proportions; they had murdered each other in lust for the book. The previous Archnecromancer happened to be Doric.

This news was quite alarming, and the Guild of Thought sent a representative to the Council. Hopefully, they would make it in time.

---

Meanwhile, Sandromin proceeded to wonder what had occurred in the past hour. It seemed like a fog in his mind. However, that did not matter, and he arose to announce some very important news.

"So, it seems the deserts will now move forward at a greater pace due to the Doric city we have found! We declare the Guild of Thought a public guild! We shall be establishing guild houses throughout the lands. Knowledge shall be brought to all."

It seemed this would appease the peoples in the meantime and begin the move forward to a better world.

---

And even further on the side of these events, a young man by the name of Alihes had just finished his day's work. He had collected his gold coin for the day from his overseer in the market.

As he walked down the streets, he saw something. Just a glimpse. He decided to pursue it out of greater curiosity. He followed it down one corner, and then the next. Up an alley here, down a street there. He finally reached a dead end and found what he had been chasing: a stray cat.

But he knew it was more than that. Alas, there was nothing more he could do, so he turned around to leave. Just as he turned around there it was; he found what he was looking for. At first, he thought it was a person; then he realized it was glowing. Its shape was humanoid, but it was much more ethereal.

The being glowed with a golden hue and was obviously not of this world. Then it spoke. At first, as if it was a whisper, but the sound increased in volume.

"Hello. I am a remnant of a logipriest; in fact, several logipriests. I am much like the Collective in respect to their thinking."

Alihes was confused, and his face surely showed it.

"I see my words have little effect. What you do need to know is that I have chosen you through prophecy and foreseeing the future. I see you are the best to be chosen as my carrier. I will further explain while we are on our journey. As for now, I will move my consciousness into an item of personal value for you."

And with that, the ethereal being began fading. Actually, more like relocating. Its being moved to the coin in Alihes' pocket, and unbeknownst to him, the coin had adopted the logipriest symbol on it as the being moved into the coin.

Shivers sends down his spine. The word "brother" escapes his mouth, yet there is no sound. He feels new eyes looking upon him. He whispers to himself: "You are too impatient, like always. Death has his time an place." Sandromin leaves. He looks to Alixenus after Sandromin leaves.

I apologize if I offended you earlier. There is much to explain. But what must be done must bare no suspicion. Captivity WOULD have been a logical excuse to meet with you two privately, but no matter. However I do stress that you would accept my invitation to come to Diyad tonight. It is a holiday and customary to bring your kin, and I regard you as kin. It is of utmost importance that you attend. Perhaps when there, you could try to spot Venezzian inspired architecture? You see I have very important information to give to you.

---

OOC: This is what shall happen after my conversation with Alixenus is over, just trying to get this done quickly.

After conversing with(and hopefully persuading) Alixenus, Thanatos makes his way to Sandromin. He finds him heading towards an encampment. He approaches:

"I could feel him follow you. He gave you vision, but neglected to give you clarity. I ask that you delay your proceedings for just another day. I would like you to come to Diyad. Our meeting could be held along the way. My airships are much more efficient. Only a three and a half hour journey. It is imperative that you receive the information I plan to relay."

If one were to gain the gift to see the realm of spirits, how would they perceive Thanatos? Well, how would one person a being that is supernatural, yet neither god nor spirit? Not a demon nor monster? Sandromin had gained vision. Before him the answer. At first one would see a man made up of swirling shadows. Each coils around him as if sentient. But to observe death is to gain clarity. The shadow towers above men and beast alike, and even challenges the gods. He is not evil, no not at all, but sinister. Better described by Venezzian lore. The shadowy tendrils extend the vast space around him like the web of a spider. All that is distinguishable, are his luminous pink eyes. All within the vessel, called the human body.

---

Conyr woke calmly, his eyes opening slowly, his breathing slow and even. He was on a bed, covered by rough sheets, his loincloth seemingly intact. Next to him sat a young man, a sandman, Conyr guessed. He had dark hair and dark skin, his clothes were mismatched, patched and tattered.

And he was gazing right into Conyr's eyes. His pupils were elongated slightly, like a hawk, and Conyr felt a tremor of fear run through him.

"Hello." Conyr gasped, his throat raspy. "Did you save me?"

The man stiffened, but he held eye contact.

"Yes. How did you survive?"

Conyr was puzzled by that. "Erm... because you saved me?"

"No one survives a falling kalter seed."

"What's a kalter seed?"

The man's eyes widened, but his face tensed. "It fell on your head. You should be dead."

Conyr contemplated this for a moment. "Maybe it wasn't high enough to-"

"IT WAS NOT HIGH ENOUGH?" the man was suddenly, unexplainably, furious. "THEY ARE ALWAYS HIGH ENOUGH. FATE DOES NOT LEAVE THESE THINGS TO CHANCE!"

Conyr flinched. What in the world was wrong with this man? "I'm a logip-"

"I DON'T CARE WHO YOU ARE! YOU SHOULD BE DEAD! I WILL KILL YOU!"

And with that, he drew a long, curved machete. Conyr tried to move, but his body was weak and his muscles seized, causing him to fall from the bed on the other side of the machete-wielding maniac.

"COME BACK HERE, YOU!" He jumped the bed, but Conyr rolled underneath. The man grabbed the whole bed and tossed it out of the way. Conyr scurried on all fours to the door, slowly regaining control of his muscles. Behind him, he heard the man panting from exertion. It was a foolish move on his part to waste all his energy on the bed. Conyr needed this time, because he realised the door had no knob. How was he to open it? He gazed back at the crazy man, gathering himself, seeing his prey trapped, and then Conyr knew.

He stood up, back against the door, waiting.

"Yeah, I survived certain death. So what?"

The sandman roared, eyes bulging with fury. He charged.

At the last second, Conyr jumped. A memory flashed through his eyes.

"The jungle pig is ferocious, Conyr."

They were on the ground, Vyzion and himself, gazing at a snorting jungle pig.

"Their tempers and sheer power, however, are also their weaknesses. When clouded by anger, all other paths are sealed. There is but one decision to be made in anger, and it is always the wrong one."

"But it's so big." Conyr was small, and his voice was timid.

"Size is not everything."

Vyzion said this loud, loud enough to be heard by the jungle pig. A challenge. It saw us, backs against a tree trunk, and snorted in derision. Pawing the ground, it waited for us to move, to try escape. Conyr was tempted; but Vyzion held his hand.

"Wait for it..."

It charged. Conyr gasped; it was so fast. His heart hammered as it got closer, and yet Vyzion did nothing.

"Stop it!" Conyr yelled.

"I can't..." muttered Vyzion.

And at the last moment, he grasped Conyr under his arms, and jumped. The jungle pig slammed into the trunk behind him and crumpled, dazed.

"But the tree can."

The door crashed open; the sandman ran right through it. Conyr landed neatly, walked out the door, walking on the fallen sandman. He was not out cold like the jungle pig, however, and Conyr nearly lost his balance as the man moved.

"Oops. Sorry." Conyr ran.

Ran right past another startled young man holding a coin in his hand.

"Hey!" the man shouted, his coin glowing strangely. But Conyr did not stop. For the machete man was up, and chasing. So Conyr ran. Ran right out of this sandy town, back into the sandy dunes.

Size is not everything.

OOC:
Sorry about the skin colour mistake.

And for the fate thing, I meant fate, just as fate. Not Fate, one of the elder gods in our tale. I should've realised it would've started confusing people, sorry about that. I just thought it would be an interesting choice of words. That is, Fate herself was not involved in anyway, or at least insofar as a god can fail to be involved.

I suppose I'll go with your version of events then.

END OOC.
__

Conyr gazed sceptically up at the ethereal Jern as he explained. Freedom? Alihes? Aura? What was this ghost talking about?

"Listen, um, Jern." Conyr's voice was shaky; he remembered he was dreaming, but not of what. Jern stopped speaking when Conyr spoke. "I don't know who you are. I don't know whether you speak the truth."

Conyr took a breath.

"What I do know, however, is that Vyzion left me. The others, Natyli, Hayde and Layla, left me. Darilys is dead. I am alone, they told me I'd be alone." His voice cracked a little at the last word.

"But now, you... appear. In a coin. From this Alihes." Conyr nods towards the sandman. "I am finding this very hard to believe."

Just as Sandromin was attempting to use his newly found powers on Thanatos, two shadowy figures watched the gathering from a distance. They were invisible to mortal eye, and their voices could be heard by none but themselves. The first figure, although ghostly in appearance, could be seen by the other as wearing golden and orange robes. The man's head bore a circlet that hosted a single bright gem that sat on his forehead; the gem was enveloped in pure burning radiance. His interlocutor was draped in green cloak and shimmered with emerald waves and bloomings. The aura exuded from the figure bore a distinct sense of life and nature itself.

None of the passing citizens, and not even Thanatos and Sandromin, could see or hear the two companions, and the latter focused all their attention solely on the meeting of three leaders. Their conversation's topic was directed specifically at one member of the gathering.

"He seems to be a brave one, probably even too brave for a mortal. His foolishness did not cost him anything right now just because of his own luck. Do you still think it was necessary?" questioned the man in green.

"I believe so, yes," his partner replied. "Despite how foolish he may be, the powers given to him will be the necessary foundation for his bravery and actions, once trained sufficiently."

"But who is going to train him, Sol'Krin? You can't possibly rely on the Ashborn at this moment! Their settlement is extremely far away from this place, and they have yet to make some sort of contact with this Assembly," the first man asked skeptically.

Sol'Krin answered with confidence. "Nexhawk already knows. I made sure of that when the Gift of the Ashflame has been granted. At this very moment, a phoenix bird is bearing a letter to the Ashborn ship stationed near this city with orders to meet the gifted one. So you do not need to worry, Ani'Lokh."

Ani'Lokh's troubled countenance did not appear to alter. "And what are your motives, Sol'Krin? What do you desire to accomplish by unprecedentally granting the gift of magic to someone not native to Praecantaria?"

"Nexhawk will need him in order to recover the Eye."

Ani'Lokh widened his eyes and exclaimed, "Don't you think that it is exactly what Nak'Sora would want? After all, the Eyes were initially created by her hands, and there is no guarantee her corruption did not spread to them."

Sol'Krin grinned. "I believe in the Hawk of Burning Death and trust his motives. His willpower is incredibly strong, and she will have to work incredibly hard in order to break it. However, none of this will be even possible if you do not guide that boy of yours, Conyr, to meet Nexhawk. He is still a crucial piece in the puzzle, just like our new-born Mage is."

"Well, this is in fact being done right now. The essences of people he's known closely were transported to him, and he is conversing with them as we speak" smiled Ani'Lokh, his spirits definitely lifting.

His companion nodded. "This will be all that is needed from you at this moment. After it is done, we will just have to stay back and observe."

//OOC: New gods! Or maybe some of them aren't so new...

Anyway, I wouldn't really want to force anyone, so if you are displeased with the course of events, voice your opinion, and we might reach a consensus.

//OOC:

@Sandromin: Hmm, if you are saying that everyone can utilize magic while some choose not to, it would probably make sense that there were many more magic-wielding persons on Mediterra, wouldn't it? Praecantaria is one of the primary sources of magic in the land, and thus everyone born there is attuned to the magic. Hence you have such people as the Ashborn and the Hydromancers where every single person utilizes magic. So why, if magic would be accessible to every person, everyone and their dog would use it on Praecantaria, while everyone (except for very few) would shy from it on Mediterra?

In Sandromin's case, for the mentioned reasons, I initially thought that the radiant aura has been given to him, basically, after Freedom visited Sandromin and gave him the vision. Otherwise, for the aforementioned reasons, it would be too strange to have him discover his powers only now, after one of the gods visited him and basically granted him new abilities. This was, really, my reasoning when I wrote the post, so if you have different ideas on the matter, please share them.

P.S. Yeah, sorry about the Mage-born, I just ran out of ideas to indicate Sandromin by anything else instead of his real name... If I come up with anything, I promise to edit that.

P.S.S. And you were partially right; the conversation happened not only in Ashborn's tongue but in Praecantaric language in general. You could say that these were the names the gods told Praecantarians. And sorry if they are too hard to pronounce.

@Thanatos: They are gods, yes. And I guess I did not make it clear in my post, but the two figures were simply projections of sorts that could converse with each other and observe the surroundings. Consider them being... holograms, of sorts. For things like giving Sandromin vision and (if we agree on it) the gift of magic, a god would have to manifest more of his true self, that's why Thanatos felt it when he spoke with Sandromin after the transformation.

Frankly, I was just too lazy to make up an additional location where the two gods would meet in their true selves, but maybe I should've done that. Here, though, they are just two shadows of themselves and don't resemble their true power in any way. In fact, their true manifestations could be in different places. Do you think Thanatos would still feel that? //End of OOC\\

OOC: My only real problem is that Thanatos can't sense them whatsoever. It's being revealed that he is becoming less of a mortal as time passes. If they were gods or mages, he would have some type of awareness. You see overtime I'm trying to push Thanatos to his true potential. But I don't want to make him overpowered so I have to limit him in many ways. It's a bit of a balancing act, but I digress. Point is doubt I that Thanatos couldn't even slightly sense these lurkers. No matter how much I balance him, his vision is important to his character.

P.S. Sandy you haven't actually responded to me yet...

//OOC: @Sandromin, only Ashborn have affinity to fire; different Praecantarian nations have powers over different elements. And, as I've mentioned before, it seems very strange to me that there are no magic users whatsoever, except Sandromin, even because of the history with the necromancers and the such.

This is why I would also like everyone else's take on this topic. Would it be more logical to have literally everyone being able to use magic, whole no one on Mediterra actually wants to? Or should it originate in few select places, such as Praecantaria, and cause everyone there to be attuned to magic? Personally, I think this is a question that can only be truly resolved by total decision, not arguing between me and you, Sandromin. //End of OOC\\

"Revive the logipriests? Restore our people?" Conyr still couldn't believe this character. Vyzion told him he'd be alone. They left him. And now there was suddenly hope? Conyr didn't know what to do... except...

"Wait. I was in the middle of the desert... How did I get here?"

---

OOC: my story was that Hakyi, an exlied sandman, rescued Conyr, but for some obscure reasons which I planned to reveal later, he hated Conyr as well.

Now, Sandromin, I'm not sure if you do actually 'exile' the people of your nation, so if that's not the case then I'll alter that portion of my backstory for Hakyi a little.

I'd like you to, well, answer Conyr's question using this exiled sandman, Hakyi, I've created; I'm not sure how he should behave. It's quite a big favour, and if you don't wish to design a whole new character, I'm happy to do so, and you can iron out any discrepencies, since this character will be a sandman. If you do create him, I would like to take control of him. I was planning a little "Fellowship" of my own, in fact. Something along the lines of the Edge Chronicles, of Captain Twig and his fellow adventurers. You see, it was my intention to allow Conyr to end up having explored all the lands, alone, and to grow as a character as he did so. And by alone, I meant not interacting with you guys in this thread. I wanted him to acquire his own crew, become a pirate (was still debating this), go on some swashbuckling adventures, etc.

This voyage of yours, however, may work in my favour. So if you would do the honours of introducing my Conyr to Hakyi, I'd be eternally grateful.

//OOC: Ok, so we skipped the night, right? I'm assuming that because Alixenus woke up after some sleep, and Brutus waited for the entire night. //End of OOC\\

//OOC: I'm asking mostly because I'm wondering where Sandromin is located right now. Is he still with Thanatos or someplace else? //End of OOC\\

//OOC: Hmm... Can you tell his precise location, though?//End of OOC\\

OOC: Hold on. Then that would mean that Sandromin and Alixenus would be on their way to Diyad too since they agreed to come right?

//OOC: Moreover, considering the current positioning of the Embershard, any aerial vehicle to Diyad would have to pass above it... That is why I would actually ask not to time-lapse that part and have Ignatus interrupt your little journey, if you allow me. //End of OOC\\

//OOC: I have absolutely no problems with the last two points, but for the first one...

If I understood Alixenus correctly from his quote, "Magic is particularly strong in several locations with those born near them developing a magical affinity," he is for the sources theory. And, at least for me, it seems the most logical explanation as to why literally (there are actually no exceptions whatsoever) everyone on Praecantaria is able to and utilizes magic freely, but in Mediterra only very few do. No offense, but I feel like an extremely difficult learning process and history with necromancers is not really a viable excuse for the entire continent to shy away from magic. I may be mistaken, however, but this is my stance at this point. //End of OOC\\

Yeah, I got an upcoming Lit Assignment, so I'll be cranking out a short story real soon. It'll be quite interesting and will involve the origins of the Sandmen.

I am slightly offended that Death held no relevance to your tale!

//OOC: Wow, Sandromin, how did you have patience to write all that? Just kidding, but it's very good stuff. But now, I guess, we should find certain points where my and Sandromin's story intersect...

How about this: Archnectomancer was not created entirely by Fate; instead, he was one of the Life Wardens that Fate took to corrupt and taint for her own purposes. Firstly he worked with his nation, but under the combined strength of the other four they had to flee Praecantaria. I can't think of anything else right now, though.

@Thanatos: Well, the Dark Arcanum is filled with spells, as Xavier wrote once. Archnecromancer, I think, would not really need them, for he knew them already, didn't he? And, actually, here is what we could potentially do: The book was written by Fate, and then it was guarded by the Five. Then Fate created Archnecromancer (Praecantarians would call him and his followed Deathlords), and she ordered him to steal the book, which, upon Fate's corruption, became what it is now - the Dark Arcanum. I don't know about you, but it actually makes sense to me...

Also, how are you going to act now that Ignatus accepted Thanatos' proposal? //End of OOC\\

//OOC: Yeah, I have read the first part of the second bomb, and it says pretty much the same thing I've been thinking of. Although my story mentioned the fact that Life Wardens were Mir. I don't know if Mir and Second are the same in your vision, however.

You also mention that Fate gave the Dark Arcanum to AN after his transformation. I don't believe that exact origins of the book matter much for the present of Dustia, but if they are such as written in my records, the history of Praecantaria and its effects on the world would seem more plausible to me. I think I mentioned my reasons in a previous post, and I hope they are clear enough. //End of OOC\\

//OOC: Then Life Wardens should not be Second; they were merely one of the five nations of Mir that lived on Praecantaria.

P.S. And I hope for you, Sandromin, to clarify this: what is wrong with my theory of the book's creation? Please take no offense, and it might be just me, but I feel like you are almost eager to disprove it... Forgive my question, but why? //End of OOC\\

//OOC: Hmm, I see your point, Sandromin. My argument for the magic sources, however, was the point that these sources were scattered around the world, and certainly Praecantaria was not the only spot that gave magical powers to the newborns.

Anyways, I'm entirely open for the book to influence many nations on Dustia. The only thing I'm asking for in order to lay proper foundations for my history is that prior to the event where the book falls into AN's hands and sets all other events in motion, the Arcanum resided on Praecantaria and reflected Fate's corruption. Afterwards, when the book is stolen from the continent, I wash my hands, and everyone is free to involve the book as they wish.

The events regarding the book prior to AN's possession of it, as I see it, don't matter much to the overall history, but, frankly, they would mean much to the history of Praecantaria in my vision. Please, I'm just trying to add a little more backstory before the moment you believe to be the book's origin. I hope it wouldn't be too hard to fulfill this only request I have regarding the Dark Arcanum. //End of OOC\\

//OOC: A quick question: does (or did) AN have any followers, or is he acting all by himself?

@Xavier: Tough choice, honestly... I'd say Nexhawk is True Neutral, because his motives are kinda unknown, as well as his allegiances. He doesn't seem to act for anyone's benefit except that of his people. Also, my character's attitude towards Fate is not even clear to myself, so I guess you might not be alone... We'll see about that, I guess. //End of OOC\\

//OOC: Aha, that's what I was asking about. One of my versions included several Life Wardens twisting their magic to come to the AN's side, but it actually seems viable that he would not have apprentices and instead would work alone.

@Xavier: Well, it appears that there is only one of them, and he is the Arch Necromancer himself. I might be mistaken, but it seems from Sandromin's bombs that he resides in Brutus' homeland at this moment. One wonders, would the dwarf king dare to ask for aid from such a repulsive being? //End of OOC\\

As Xavier considered the offer, Nexhawk's spiritual self was rather abruptly and forcefully thrown out of his body. The outskirts of Spodium faded before his eyes and transformed into endless empty space over Dustia. He could see the planet slowly rotating under him and revolving around the system's sun. Nexhawk was enthralled by the burning sphere when a voice reached him from behind. "A magnificent view, isn't it?"

Nexhawk turned around and saw a man who was enveloped in the radiance as potent as that if the sun itself. He instantly recognized the figure and bowed his head in utter respect. "Sol'Krin. How may I be of service?"

"Welcome, Nexhawk," the god spread him arms. "I want you to know that you are doing the wise thing by coming to the capital of Diyad."

"This name tells me...very little. I'll accept the praise, nevertheless, although I can't refrain from wondering how does this all concern you."

Sol'Krin rubbed his chin. "Let's just say that I am...in the lead of the crusade against a god gone rogue."

A realization hit Nexhawk. "It is Nak'Sora, isn't it? You wish to purge the world of her?"

"That is correct."

"But then..." Nexhawk's eyes narrowed. "You must be Freedom the Dwarf spoke about, isn't that so?"

"Yes, this is the name the people of Mediterra and Diyad call me by," Sol'Krin nodded.

The Dwarf's words intruded Nexhawk's thoughts. Freedom is the one that aims to 'liberate' the people of Dustia from Fate. At the same time, something rose in his ember heart, something so distinctly...defiant. It turned out to be Nexhawk's care for his people, and he decided that no god would interfere with that. "What justifies your right to get rid of Nak'Sora, Sol'Krin?"

The god was taken aback by the question. "What are you talking about? Her corruption, of course! She manipulates the mortals and creates unspeakable things that will lead to the ultimate and utter destruction in the end!"

"And what makes you think I will undoubtedly trust this?" scowled Nexhawk. "Where is the proof that this is not just one of your godly intrigues? Because in case it is, I've had enough of it!"

"Listen, Nexhawk..."

"No, YOU LISTEN!!!" Nexhawk shouted at the god. "Last time you and Aesta'ar had a fight over some petty artifact, it had spilled into a horrendous war on our continent. And look what it did to my people! Your children, the Ashborn, had to flee their homeland, abandoned by their god!" His eyes were ablaze with anger and hatred, but his rebellious elan started to quiet down soon enough.

Sol'Krin saw it as well and smiled. "Nexhawk, you and your people pass through difficult times now. But I have faith in you and know you will endure them and emerge as powerful as never before. But trust me when I say that Nak'Sora means no good for Dustia."

"I will not take anyone's side now. Not until I meet this Thanatos and the rest and see what they have to say," Nexhawk replied decisively. I doubt their speeches will be any different from his, however. "Now, take me back to Spodium. Xavier must be wondering about me missing."

"There is one more thing, though." Sol'Krin raised his hand. "I know you plan to search for Nak'Sora's Eye. You will need two persons that will aid in the recovery of the object. The first one will await you in the capital of Diyad. His name is Sandromin, and I gave him my gift quite recently; you must have certainly felt it. His powers need your training, and afterwards he will be absolutely necessary to accessing the Eye."

"The second one is but a boy. He holds great potential, nevertheless, for I suspect his people are the descendants of the those exiled from Praecantaria, the Life Wardens. Even if he is not, however, he will still play a very important role in your goal. When you meet Sandromin, look for the boy in the mountainous kingdom of Lucia. The Dwarf that is about to travel with you is the ruler of that land."

"Now, I bid my farewell and sincerely hope you make the right decision." With these last words, Sol'Krin motioned his hands, and Nexhawk's vision turned black.

A moment later, the mortal plane drifted into his view once again. Nexhawk looked around and noted that everything stayed exactly the same when his mind departed from his body, as if he and Sol'Krin talked while the time was frozen. Nexhawk heaved a sigh and pondered over the conversation that he just had with the god.

//OOC: Sandromin, is Life still alive, or was he killed during Fate's rampage, according to sandmen's history?

P.S. Also, I've officially run out of ideas to write about before Thanatos, Alixenus, Sandromin, or Xavier reply to any of my characters. //End of OOC\\

OOC: Okay I will edit accordingly...In other news, is the AN going to make an appearance or are we leaving them out until we write the sequel ;)

[OOC]Please forgive my absence, everyone. At least you all have been somewhat busy...

All right, time to unleash my inner Xavier...[/OOC]

Failure. Failure. The mission was completely unsuccessful. Fate herself even showed, yet he was not amazed. He did not even have the need to blink his old, wise eyes. Se froze time in its place, and even spoke to him, and still, he was not fazed. What a strong man. A strong man of will. Dare say a stubborn man. But, he tried to do what was right. For his people. For himself. And Xavier respected this. The populace of Lucia was Xavier's life. His soul. His essence. The thought that he knew they were free, and safe, empowered him. The power he had over them, strengthened him. In fact, he could not tell any more what he desired the most, power, or the joy of freedom. Xavier was confused. Nexhawk was not. This is how the respect was won.

The man simply turned, and walked away. Not very far, mind, just to, Xavier presumed, the royal stables. What was the color? Take a guess? Crimson! Yes, crimson! The stables were much more fine then that, though. The crimson flowers Xavier had seen on his walk to the palace were quite abundant, and were clinging gracefully to the beam that supported the stable. Many strange symbols were engraved on the stable, except they moved. They seemed to all swirl in a clockwise direction, and at the same pace. They glowed with a, wait for it, crimson hue, as if warding off some evil.

The beasts were more beautiful then the stables, however. At first glace, all you saw were impossibly large eggs. The eggs were surprising not crimson, but were a pure white with black spots surrounding it. Then the magic happened. The beasts could hatch at will, and it was extraordinary! The shells would crack fiercely, as if it had a purpose. Crack. Crack. Crack. Strange crimson hues would emit from these crevices, which then would overtake the whole egg. After a few seconds, the lights would subside, and a large, majestic bird would appear in its place, the egg not to be seen. It seemed to be made of pure fire (which was in a visibly recognizable shape of a very large bird). The fire on the bird was ever flowing, and it was so detailed and precise that you could see every single feather. It was a surprise that Nexhawk did not get burned.

Nexhawk spoke of going to the enemy, and asked if Xavier would like to join him.

"Nay, comrade. I can not go to the heart of the beast. It would not be wise with the book," he thumped it twice, "and the very different views of my own."

Nexhawk nodded to him, and appeared to be wanting to make his bird sour.

"Remember, Nexhawk, the carriage cannot be driven if the conductor is dead. Heed this warning, Nexhawk, and may you persuade them to join The Cause."

[OOC]Remember to drop what you think your character alignment would be. So far we have:
Collective (I think): True Neutral

Alixenus: You mentioned something about be Neutral-Good, with a little Lawful mixed in, so I'll put you in the Lawful-Neutral category.

Xavier: He is most likely Chaotic Good.

Is there anyone else I missed? Remember, Character Alignmentsaid your character, not hinder them.

[/OOC]

Thanatos chuckles.

"We haven't even entered the city yet. No need to worry, the radiation won't affect anyone. Especially after today, I mean, this is one of the reasons why we're here."

He looks to the giant standing aside the group.

"Brutus my friend. Glad you could join us. Jumping off of an airship must be fun for you to do it twice. Would you care to join us?"

Brutus nodded, masking the fact that just a moment ago he was sobbing. They make their way into the grand capital of Karthage. It is perhaps more spectacular than it was before. Ehrom blossoms raining down, parades, fireworks, feasts, competitions and other festivities. Thanatos led them to the grand palace. Marvelous golds and silvers, an others colors danced around the wide hallways. As they entered the throne room, Thanatos stopped. Looking at his throne and crown. It was obvious to everyone what he was thinking. Before he would be clad in fancy armors, looking as lavish as his kingdom. He had pride, yet he was humble. He loved to laugh and spend time with others. He was dignified. Thanatos approached his throne and held up his crown to eye level. Now he was out of place. His leather armor and weapons made him look more like an assassin, or a thief. His hands were wearing dirty gloves and his eyes made him seem inhuman. He felt in his heart that soon he wouldn't belong. He tried his best to maintain his vibrant personality, but more and more the world seemed distant. The only thing he could hold onto was love. These men, and that giant were like family to him. He had even grown fond of the robot. Removing his hood he turned to Ignatus and the engineer, as well as the council.

"My apologies but you'll have to excuse us one last time. This won't be long. Achyr, maybe you could show Ignatus the carnivale, or perhaps the Great Librarium. Vektor, maybe you could show the engineer our 'special project'. Now Alixenus, Sandromin, I for you to follow me to my map room. It is imperative that you hear this information, and I have some explaining to do."

OOC: Vyzion, have you heard of Warhammer 40k? It's the epitome of Sci-fi/fantasy. Also, Project Ark is a back-up plan the Collective is offering. They've calculated the odds, and see the chances of winning very low. So, in an uncharacteristic gesture of generosity, they've developed a way for everyone on the planet to haul behinds if getting blown up in a gigantic nuclear reaction becomes inevitable. Also, your idea of our own New Eden seems interesting. How about this: We actually are in New Eden, by the time the empires have begun to re-establish contact. The Dorics are the Sleepers, which means the sleepers weren't actually human. "Magick" is actually the psionic manipulation of meta-dimensions. The Gods are actually powerful meta-dimensional entities who can only manifest themselves on planets with a large quantity of magick-users, due to them causing enough dimensional disturbance for the Gods to slip through. Iyo is a rare element (similar to element Zero in Mass Effect in its functions), which the Dorics found a way to synthesize, thus it may pass that our nations rediscover the way to synthesize iyo. Might make for an interesting twist.

Also, if you want to know how new Collective AIs are generated, here's an explanation by flashback:
10,000 years ago...
The chief programmer of Macrohard Inc. was excited. His feelers arced electricity, and his beak snapped rapidly. The AI generator for their reconaissance and social experiment AIs was complete. He moused over the random generation button and clicked. A textbox appeared on his screen. It was time to find out what kind of a person this digital construct was. "Hello? Where am I? Who am I?" text that flared on the screen read. Later, the AI would be uploaded to a robotic armature, but first it would have to get used to the disembodied feeling of being an infomorph.

You get the idea.

this was an evil evil man.


how did this ever become a threadnought?

OOC: Calling it now, 2000. It's a stretch, but something tells me this threadnaught has a lot of life left. Speaking of which, I think we need some Dev/GM acknowledgement. I mean this is the biggest thread in The Locker Room right?

OOC: I also call dibs on 2020 (referencing Cyberpunk 2020) if we get that far. P.S: I posted something in response to you. The Engineer's name is now "Galrick" (Its -aah screw it- his unit designation is 61-RK-MK, so it's derived from there).

OOC: That is correct Nexhawk, I believe Sandromin was stuck on the ground while you flew with Thanatos, unless he used some sort of OP-dev-please-nerf lvl sand magic to levitate himself up when we weren't looking. Also, Xavier, art thou not a Dwarf? Because if thou art not Dwarf, but Human, then I must be a frikkineth Romulan!

(Ooc) history has repeated itself! (Ooc)

OOC: Hey Brutus, does the tent city back onto a beach or a cliff on the Ocean side? Also, are we going to have a language barrier or just stick to all races having a universal language?

OOC: I don't know Brutus, I just don't know.
Also, how the hell are we supposed to kill these golems? I took the liberty of slowing them down with siege engines and fire, but they're not completely organic. What happens when the flesh stops burning?

The map currently is a writhing psionic landmass that, even though we have never looked at is, is clear within our hearts.

I'm sure it's fine.

OOC: All right let's all slow down. I am really regretting my laziness now :(. There are actually two ways to defeat the golems ,one being with alkhemistry, and the other with water cannons as Brutus suggested. Also is Kaltedes supposed to be an Alkhemist? If so, actually lighting the iyo as an explosive was an amateur idea. It would do more harm than good in the end. But no matter. I'm actually going to start typing up a response after this.

*Bojo enters the room*

Bojo popped out of nowhere to fight this sub-antagonist. Flying out of the sky from King Condor, far out of sight above them, Bojo slammed down into the ground. The crater dispersed the mysterious black air, revealing none other than Ojob The Pathetic. Bojo withdrew his TY-5 Breach Scrambler Pistol and popped a cap in his ass.

Sandromin then joined Bojo's chat channel, Bojo, and continued to make happy ISK transfers and business deals. They lived happily ever after.

OOC: Lightbulb. Sandromin, I think I'm going to need your new-fangled Earth magics to bring me down from Extra-crispy to just Well done. I don't think I'm going to be much more use in the battle of Karthage swathed in Bandages, so I may continue the Giant land expedition arc. Wow that's a mouthful. Or I may start something back in Venezzia. Decisions decisions, well the Iliad wasn't written in a day.

//OOC: The Void's brother, huh? This might be harder than I thought...

Anyways, I have two theories about what this new adversary can do. Due to the lack of evidence, neither one of them can yet be proven or refuted. Here they go:

1) Fade is actually not one, but two entities, which differ slightly through such things as demeanor, just like what we've already seen. These halves appear to be the calm, witty Fade and the angrier one. At a certain moment, only one out of two halves can be 'active', that is, visible and actually present in the mortal plane. Therefore, Fade keeps swapping between the calm and the angry self, meanwhile positioning both entires so that the enemy is constantly kept between the two.

2) Fade is an ethereal entity that can move freely through our plane without any restraints and at a blinding speed. When others see Fade then...they see a manifestation of their prevailing emotion. When Sandromin approached the hidden enemy with a tranquil countenance, Fade also appeared calm and, at the same time, mocking, with aim to shatter this peace inside Sandromin. He succeeded, and once the king of the sandmen had gone angry, Fade mirrored that feeling as well, in turn fueling Sandromin's anger more and more and potentionally driving him reckless enough to reveal his weaknesses. Hence, Fade draws on his enemies' emotions to turn the fight to his advantage by manifesting them in his presence.

P.S. Of course, there is a third, sort of a clich+¬ explanation, where Fade just teleports around with magic, but his powers can't be detected because he is, well, a god. But this seems kinda boring, in my opinion. //End of OOC\\

OOC:I second Nexhawk's #1.


...Also I forgot to add earlier. I think we should all take the time to give a more detailed description about our nations and there cultures. I say this because I realized there have been inconsistencies between the ways I describe Diyadian armor. I wanted the resistance guys to have armor similar to Diyadian armor, then I realized I've described their armor being gold, light, heavy, white, helmet, no helmets. So I think we should all organize this information similar to the original nation setup we were using. This way we each have something to work off of instead of making things up as you go along. Including things such as:

Nation Colors:
National Animal(what it represents):
Flag Description:
Standard Weapons:
Armor worn (including different military types like guards and King's Men)
National Tree:
Values(such as Athens-education and Sparta-military):
Notable Laws/Rights (like gay marriage, or women can't vote):
Notable Attractions/Landmarks:
Common Religion/Practices:

So what do you guys think? Any more to add?

OOC: Hm, I would've thought that someone would've seen or heard this duel after such a long time, unless these Kalter groves are remote or private? And yes the desert is an excellent deterrent, and that was before we even knew you were in there!

//OOC: ...And it's quiet here again. //End of OOC\\

(Ooc) NO ONE WRITES ANYMORE!!!! (Ooc)

Then, Cthulhu came and killed everyone, the end!

Welcome to the leppy.

OOC: oh my sincerest apologies Nexhawk, I didn't mean to leave you in the lurch.

"Oh yes Thanatos" came Alixenus' reply when he finally shook out of his reverie "Assuming Thanatos' men put everything back in the right place and the right way round I should be fit to travel, aside from being very tender. Gods, even hold this piece of bread stings a little." He began to chuckle, but it was immeadiately stifled by a cough. Alixenus put a hand up to his face, which suddenly displayed a look of surprise. He stroked his face and said "My skin, it hasn't been this smooth in one score years! The scar along my cheek, its gone too. Its like I'm new again. Well, except for not having any hair at the moment" He lept of bed in joy, then immediately remembered he had no robes on and gathered his bedsheet about him like a cloak.

"So when do we leave? and is there a tailor around?"

OOC: Say, hypothetically, if I had done some fan art for this, what would be the easiest way to get it online for you to see?

OOC: Thanks meng. And don't worry, I've been lurking this thread for quite a while (about Christmas to be exact); I just felt I needed a perfect time to reveal my TRUE intentions. I usually don't play this character all too much because I have a main character involved with corporate politics and such. However, I've kept up with this thread so far... and now... I am ready... TO CONQUER DUSTIA!

[Insert Evil Laugh Here]

OOC: Jesus Christ! 8-FOOT STEAMPUNK CYBORGS!?!

That is way better than my idea! Plus it makes sense given Diyad's technological progress. Also your post was top, no need to worry.

P.S. Sandromin, am I still the second most advanced? I'm not sure since Diyad advanced tremendously without Doric influence.