The Campaign Builder's Guild

[ic=Reply to the Regent]
Inveran graciously accepts your gifts, with much thanks. As for the sacred ornaments, we are curious as to why you did not simply ask the bearer of the message, who is a devoted Saints worshiper and could have easily told you.

Onward to the Elephants; this is a new beast to our lands as well. Is it at all possible that we could acquire more pairs of these animals, male and female? I admit that we are at a loss as to the purpose of these beasts. Are they akin to the Auri chariots, to be ridden into battle? To they pull a plow (or perhaps several) and used to till the fields? Are they used to perform large movements?

One request that we wish to make is that of your glassworkers. Would it be possible to send some of our young men of apprenticing age to your land to learn of this material and its use? I admit its transparent nature has our people curious and, ever mindful of that which is practical, believe it could be used in that regard for transparent portals and vessels.[/ic]

 [ooc]Instead of the marble, gold, and red lotus, send the Auri letter with the spices that they just gave us.[/ooc]

[ic]the chiefs council

Chieftain Finhj:
       
these tescha scare tactics worry me.  we've come too far to be hindered by this kind of interference.  they ask for loyalty? Pah! the vands are only loyal to the divine.  however, their demon bronze soldiers are far superior to our men.

councilman klina:

cheiftain these soldiers are not demons.  they are mere men in masks a simple headpiece to appear fierce.  They ask for loyalty I think that is too much. we should stay friendly and contribute both our wares and our faith to better both countries

councilman lart:

NO Cheiftan this was a clear threat on our people they are trying to break us as a people and lead us away from our holy roots. we must stand firm and ignore their heathen temptations lest we be punished by the wrath of Rashea.


councilman uti:

your fear of rashea is completely unfounded lart.  he is obviously pleased by the way we have been doing business.  how else would we have progressed this far if not for his will.  i say we do as they wish it is the only way to our people safe and expand the teachings of Rashea and the Divine.


Cheiftan Finhj

enough! i have heard enough and i have made my decision. vandire will attempt to ally with teschans. now these people who call themselves free men. they are the ones who gave us the rice that now plenties our fields?

councilmen together:

yes sir

Cheiftan Finhj:

interesting... we must continue relations with the rice givers. send them my regards.[/ic]
[ooc]letters to come! also order might have been vague in discussion so institute war masks[/ooc]

[ic]farmland near river

Farm boy:

father did you hear the news? a hippo killed juhad when he was trying to cage it and remove its teeth. it is a sign from the divine everyone in the village has taken it as such and are honoring the hippo as the divines' pets.  there is to be a hippo sacrifice once per lunar cycle and more people are trying to capture them for other uses such as plowing the taro fields or for food.  i even heard one of the soldiers tried riding one and unfortunately he is no longer with us.
 [/ic]

[ic=Sarar Udai, Royal Governor of Roshhan, to the Free Captains]
I appreciate your efforts, and I assure you that your generosity will not be wasted on me or my city.  As for Inveran, I do not foresee any further problems; as you say, they seem to lack tact, but they would not be the most difficult foreigners I have dealt with.

I have heard the Auri mentioned by you westerners; how strange that our kinsmen have caused so many problems for you.  I can arrange for some excellent horse traders to meet you with some very fine herds.  I think there are few who would say that the Harppan breed the Auri keep is superior in war to a good Xuk horse; certainly not the Auri themselves, who were the tribe of our people who fled westward when the Xuk came upon us from the steppes.  I imagine a herd of significant size and good breed would be quite valuable in your land without horses, especially for those threatened by the Auri.

I am not saying such a herd would come cheaply - it would not - but I could orchestrate such a deal, and I imagine it would have the potential for great profit for those with the ships to take advantage of it.[/ic]

[ic=Her Graciousness Princess-Regent Ekkani Radha Bha-Yonnan to the Dragon Prince]
Glassmaking is a closely held secret of Etropahan; I cannot help you in that regard.

With regards to the elephants, I sent their trainers and mahouts with you, and they could best answer your questions.[/ic]

[ic=Amohan, Elephant trainer]
'Ell, Sarar - ta Elephants, Sarar?  L'kainds a thengs - tember pulleng, hauleng, a Sarar, war too.  On ta fore 'and, these as pareid elephants - trein ta standeng people 'ell, see Sarar?[/ic]

[ic=to Hurscha Nolyne of Greathouse Erivyson, as delieverd by a Kings Voice who'll accompany the Andos messenger back home ]
This King will take your scolding not as insults, but rather as a lesson to do better, like the old saying goes. "a child burns himself, a fool does not try to learn from it". but let us let that lay in the past and move on to more important business.
I have along with my voice brought not only a few of our flocks, but also sheep-herds who will teach your people about the proper raising and tendering of them and we wish to leave with nothing but the faith that Andos will honour her words.
The King also wishes to offer this gift to you, as a token of his friendship. [/ic]
 (the gift in question is a heavy sicled sword of Narqag design, though ornamented with Avarderan motif)
 [ic=to Captain Lathan of the Freemen] As allways, your experiencee shines through my Mentor.
Alas, much in the same way that you can not turn against an old friend, in the same way can Avardera not causes such trouble for Inveran, especially due to it being favorable deals between my Father and the then Dragon Lord, who convined Inveran to accept the terms at the peace of Inverness council.
how ever, I have recieved the letter where you offer to out-bid any other merchants, and so, it is only fair, if the Freemen traders recieve favorable prices for any Avarderan goods. like the saying goes "better to feed a friend first, then go afer the fox that stole his meal"
May the Wind allways Favor you.
Meas.[/ic]

 [ic= to the Machta-in]
I must inform you, that Avardera can not accept letting go of any of her land, Stormshield Isle have been fought and bleed for, and it will not be right to then lose it like this.
How ever, I understand that leaving thier land can be difficult for your people, and so instead offer to send my learned to your lands to learn your ways and teach our ways of tilting the lands, and with them will gifts be brought that will pay for thier stay and even more. I hope such an arrangement is acceptable for you, so that both our people may gain from the mutual sharing of knowledge.

May We All Prosper
King Meas IV[/ic]

 [spoiler=why is Avardera a she?]Because she is. Amounth all the ancestor and totem spirit practised amounth the Avardera people, then the spirit of Avardera herself is held in highest regard. seen as both the spirit of the founder of which the city state is named after, and the spirit of the country it self, after she returned to the earth. The Tales of Avardera is some of the must populare amounth children and adults alike and even follower of others faith, often still pay much respect to the spirit of Avardera.
Some sages have speculated, after contact with Andos, that Avardera did not come from the old lands to the west, but infact are of Andos stock.   something which isn't really populare and mainly kept as a discussion topic between the learned ones.[/spoiler]

 [spoiler=and whats with all those sayings?] With limited formal education and a strong oral tradition, then sayings have been the natural develiopement to pass on wisdom and still have a strong grip on the people, even as the prospirity have made parpyros more common. The oldest sayings are hunting or fishing related, with more added with each generations. Infact, sayings are such a common way of making ones point come across, that if especially quik witted Avarderan will make up one on the spot, if they don't know or remember any for a giving occasion[/spoiler]

 [ooc] A shipment of sheeps, along with people who can teach about the proper care of them will be sent to Andos.

Freemen traders offering favorable rates, will also recieve favorable rates themself.[/ooc]

[ic=In the Council of Wardens]Grand Warden Mihsa: The Despotissa's messages have me worried. It seems that war will come between Kuregn and Celend.

Warden Lharmok: Do we care? Let them fight it out, we will deal with the winners.

Warden Masif: Perhaps we can take advantage of Kuregn to free ourselves from this obnoxious "tribute" to Celend.

Warden Bihrmod: Celend would not take kindly to that. They may be weak but there are many of them.

Grand Warden Mihsa: If Celend came to us in war, it would not turn out well for them. But it would turn out even worse for us. No, we can't risk war with Celend.

Warden Masif: We may get war anyway, if Kuregn tries to come through us. Then we'll be forced to choose a side whether we will or not.

Grand Warden Mihsa: Then we must persuade them to take their war along a different path.

Warden Masif: But how? If we will not ally with Kuregn, they will do what they want.

Warden Bihrmod: Do not forget what they have done to our Atur brethren in the Ma'a. You are young, you do not remember the sands of blood...

Grand Warden Mihsa: Perhaps we can convince them that they do not want to come this way. They will not attack us if they feel that there is a better way. We must show them that we are strong and they will suffer much if they attempt to enter our lands. The desert is hard, but harder yet for them that do not know its ways. Hoohsih is not kind to outsiders. We will make it hard enough that they will prefer to go elsewhere.

Warden Bihrmod: Won't that just provoke them? We don't need to make them our enemies.

Grand Warden Mihsa: We have to make it clear we will leave them alone if they do not enter our lands. But we will turn the desert against them if they do.

Warden Masif: Very well. But we are treading on deep sand here. Any misstep may cause disaster.

Grand Warden Mihsa: Indeed. The greatest danger to us is a battle fought here in our lands. If this becomes inevitable, we must ensure at least that it is fought at a place and time of our choosing. All the Wardens must prepare their folk for war, in case of need, while we pray to Anwu that we may be spared.

Warden Bihrmod: What if Celend calls on us? Will we respond?

Grand Warden Mihsa: We must not. We need to keep our forces home, at least until we know which way the wind is blowing. But if the time comes that we must choose, I am afraid that Celend will have to be our choice. At least the Archons mostly leave us alone. I am not so sure that Kuregn would do so.
[/ic]
[ic=Letter from the Council of Wardens to the Atur]May Anwu grace you with great prosperity.

Kashtu remains at peace with all in the Ma'a. However, should any Kuregn weapons or supplies happen to fall into your hands, you will find a ready market for them in Kashtu.[/ic]
[ic=Grand Warden Mihsa to Commander, Walid Camelry]Kuregn forces may attempt to cross the Ma'a to attack Celend, if these nations come to war. You are ordered to scout the desert and identify routes that their forces might take. Especially locate points where their supply routes might be vulnerable, or positions from which we might defend against such a force.

You may encounter Kuregnite scout parties. Under no circumstances should you engage these parties unless they enter Kashtu territory. If they do so, you should make every effort to ensure that they do not return. Prisoners may be brought to the temple for interrogation if convenient. Make a full report of any such encounters.[/ic]
[ic=Grand Warden Mihsa to the Archons of Celend]We of Kashtu stand ready to defend our borders against any who come against us. We wish to assure ourselves that in case of need, Celend will stand ready to aid us. It would be well for us to engage any invaders in the desert, rather than allowing them to reach the protection of the mountains.[/ic]

[ic=Gregor to Amohan]
Thank you, Amohan. What would it take for us to breed these elephants for ourselves? More than these two, I would assume?[/ic]

[ic=Gregor to the Academy]
We have just come into a potential source of great power, in the form of large beasts. Please turn your efforts in your studies as to various ways to perform what are now difficult tasks, perhaps utilizing the wheel or similar devices that are at your disposal.[/ic]

[ic=Letter to Etropahan]
Esteemed rulers,

Some of our young men have become curious as to the making of your glass beads, and believe that they may be suited for more practical purposes. We would very much like to learn this secret, and are willing to exchange something of equal value for it. [/ic]

[ic=Inveran training grounds]
"What's all this then?" The commander said, striding out into the yard where dozens of men, clad in the garb of the Inveran navy, milled about.

"The Navy of Inveran, back from the far East." A officer said, "You are to train them into an effective land fighting force, but without sacrificing their ability to sail."

"Lightly armored soldiers, who can still sail..."

"Yes; by Dragonlord Gregor's command."

Damn if he wasn't active, but this was an almost unholy abomination. Still, it was his duty... "Very well. Wehn I'm done with them, these will be the most effective fighting force in the Middle Sea, on land or on water."[/ic]

[ic=The Machta's Brother to Avardera]"This is a pity. I hoped that this would not come to a point where brothers in arms would have blades to each others' throats... But I am afraid that it is either Stormshield Isle, or no deal at all."[/ic]

[ic=Peshuek Lharmok to the Free Captains]This letter is accompanied by a sample of the black seeds and the apparatus used to brew them. The black seeds must be crushed. Heat water in the earthen vessel and steep the crushed seeds for about 40 heartbeats. The brew is poured through the cloth to strain it, then served hot. I find it quite helpful in the mornings or after the afternoon respite, to make the mind clear and the body energetic.

Other traders may be seeking the same trade. With your support, the house of Lharmok will establish routes quickly and you will gain the benefit of being the sole supplier for a time. If you delay, others may intervene and the profits will be correspondingly less.[/ic]

[ic= In the Royal Palace of Avardera] "They dare to threathen Avarderas people with sword and murder?" Meas had been literally fuming in his private chamber, when his scribe had read up the letter that the Machta-in had sent back.
"sire, you must understand that..." The King silenced his aid with a single look, before he sighed then continued. "do not worry, I will not let this cloud my judgement...this is just..." Meas took a deep breath and calmed himself. "my response to the Machta-in are as following"  


The Scribe looked at Meas when they where finished "anything else my king?"
"please send Eron to my chamber, I have a assigment for him" [/ic]


 [ic= To the Machta-in]
Then I am afraid I must politely inform you that it is no deal. much in the same way that I doubt Machta-in would easerly give away some of your land. I thank you for your time though.

May We All Prosper
King Meas IV[/ic]

 [ic=to the runethain of Ruthern] Greetings holy Runethain.
It have reached my ears that your people have started to breed and make uses of horses and I wishes that such knowledge to also benifit Avarderas people.
I wish to inquere what uses you have of the horses, how to tame, breed and herd them and in return, then Avardera will in her gratitude teaches your swordsmiths the techniques that Nargaq have develioped, so that you may better defend your people.

May We All Prosper

King Meas IV[/ic]

 [ic=To Arennia]
greetings.
It gladdens me to see that your people have been doing well in these lands and I hope that they may continue to do so.
how ever, to prosper, one must know the lands, like the saying goes "can't hunt the beast you don't know is there" and so in exchange for knowledge of the lands to the east, Avardera would like to teach your alchemist about the lands to the south, in hope that the exchange of knowledge will benifit both our people.
Avardera also wishes to learn about your peoples craftmanship, in exchange for what ever skills Avardera may passes on to your people.

May We All Prosper.

King Meas IV.[/ic]  



 [ic= aboard a ship docked in Averra, and with a planned heading for Machta-in]
"so your lord wishes to learn how the Machta-in plans thier harvest?" "basicly, something about how he wants to win the kings favor by providing a larger harvest then all the other nobles"
"and what's in it for me?"
within short notice, a bag of turkish of Kashtu origin landed on the table, followed by a grin "I assume this will do." immidiatly afterward, the bag was snatched from the table by the envoy and replaced with a much smaller bag
"here's what you'll get now...the rest when you come back with usefull information, deal?"
Greed had at that time allready convinced the captain who happily agreed, and sent the envoy away, with a bottle of his finest wine.

At a more lively time of the day, people might had noticed the envoy changing his clothing to the official uniform, worn by the kings voice "I almust feel sorry for the poor guy who got sent to Andos" [/ic]  


 [ic= in the audiance chamber of King Meas IV]

A loud laugther filled the chamber, which had startled the sailors and explores who had been granted an audiance with the king, his court how ever had becomes used to thier king out-burst of emotion when ever he approved of something.

"So let me get this right. you and your crew wishes to sail across the northen sea, through Andosen water and explore the rumoured ruins that even those people avoid and consider cursed and you wishes Avarderas aid?"

The gathered petitioner looked at sheepish and uncertaint at each other....the idea didn't sounded that good, after the king had putted it like that.

"uhm...yes King Meas...for the glory of Avardera.....King Meas"

"and the glory of your pockets I assume?"

"eh....well...The King show much insight, and I know just as much understanding to a tradesman nature, King Meas"

Meas leaned forward, watching the crew carefully judging them, then suddenly leaned back and proclaimed.  "That is the kind of honesty I like!  I shall grant your expedition, not only the supplies you request, but double that, a Learned and a Voice of the King shall help you with the planning and accompany you and for the duration of this trip, you shall fly the royal flag of Avardera, so that the Andosen know that you are not to be touched."

The Captain and his crew could barely believe thier luck...sure, they have heard that Meas IV was even more worldly and adventurous then his father, but this was more then they had hoped for, several moments passed before they had really accepted it, then quikly (and very, very politely) gave thier thanks, left the chamber and started the planning[/ic]


  [ooc]
A trader have been asked to inquere amounth the local farmers how the Machta-in plans thier harvest, and if succesfull, the knowledge will be shared to one of the noble houses at first, and the spreading of the knowledge then encouraged, but not officially backed.
also, if the use of pot ash, and planning the harvest leads to a sufficient increase in crops, then more granaries will be buildt to store it.


Official backing and funding will be supplied to an expedition, heading to the ruins north west of Andos, with any finding to be reported directly back to the king, and the possibility of laying claims to the land carefully estimated.[/ooc]

[ic=Despotissa Koura of Kuregn to the Grand Warden of Kashtu]
Allow me to share my predicament with you.

There are but two ways to move an army by land between Celend and Kuregn.  One is through your territory.  Were we certain that you, as you say, intend to remain "neutral," this would be no problem; we would be confident that one of these ways would be closed to our enemies.  Yet I fear that you are not telling me the truth, and that as we prepare to receive an attack through the White Eagle Pass, confident of your vaunted neutrality, you will betray us - and Celend will come through your lands and take us by surprise.  I also fear that, even if you are sincere, your trust in Celend is misplaced and they will seek to do this regardless of what you think of the matter.

It is harder still to accept your claims of neutrality at face value when you even now pay tribute to the Archons and receive the aid of their soldiers.  Were you in my position, Warden, could you trust such a claim?

It is thus incumbent upon me to inform you that eternal Kuregn will not recognize your claim to neutrality unless you make good on this claim and sever all ties, tributary and otherwise, with the Archons of Celend.  Only then can I give you my assurance that your realm will not be touched by my loyal soldiers.

Should you change your mind on this manner and decide to accept me as the valuable friend and ally I am prepared to be, you have my word that my loyal soldiers will be your protectors against any unwelcome foreigners in your land.[/ic]

[ic=The Nem-Ammar Brotherhood of Atur to the Grand Warden of Kashtu]
Our greetings to all who await the Ammar's glorious return,

The Atur tribes of the west hail you, kinsman.  We who have sought shelter from the hammer of Kuregn in the deep desert take no gifts nor weapons from them.  We do not envy your position in the east, but it has been decided in the council of the Nem-Ammar, our newly born confederation of six noble tribes, that we will give you what news we have of the west and of Kuregn, and such aid as we can provide.

The Despotissa has sought our friendship, but we have rebuffed her, as we acknowledge only the lordship of the Ammar.  Kuregn no longer slaughters our people under her rule, but we have no love nor trust of them.  They build an army now, with bows and swords and spears, whose banners are innumerable.  The Despotissa's own guard is a thousand men who wear bronze on their own bodies, calling themselves the "Despotissa's Hand," and wear the sand-veil on their faces like our own warriors.

We have met a people to the west that we call "Zurshuk," men of dusk, for they come from where the sun sets and are dark of skin and hair, perhaps because the setting sun scorches them.  They make their homes past the Sun's Gate, herding sheep and growing the black drinking seed, which they cook and trade to us.  They are a strange people who think that we live on the edge of the world and that beyond the Ma'a to the east is the world of fires where the sun is born.  They count wealth in lengths of wool, they know many secrets of bronze, and we have seen them fly with our own eyes - in the air - with smoke-filled tapestries.  Their women rule them, for those who work the looms are the most prized members of their villages.  More than this we do not know, for their language is incomprehensible to us as ours is to them.

The Nem-Ammar has little to offer you, kinsman, for we are weaker than our ancestors and require our warriors to be close at hand.  Nevertheless, we send thirty young men of the Zurshuk, who have come of their own accord - we think they wish to fight in the land of fire.  They are brave but foolhardy, and tried to attack our camels with their great axes when they saw them for the first time, thinking they were demons.  They chew the black seeds when in battle and become rather sullen without them.  Perhaps they will be of some use to you.[/ic]

[ic=Grand Warden Mihsa of Kashtu to the Nem-Ammur Brotherhood]We wish upon your clan the blessings of Anwu and the strength of Hoohsih.

To make myself perfectly clear, if any arms or supplies of the Kuregn army fall into your hands, we will not scruple to ask how they came into your possession. You will find a ready market for them at any Kashtu outpost.

We are not the enemies of Kuregn, yet we mistrust their intentions. We do not ask you to stand with us against them, for their armies are strong and powerful. Yet, even a powerful army needs to eat and drink. In the desert, who knows what might happen to an unwary wagon train? Let your warriors be like the desert wind - sweeping in at dusk to slow and madden our foes, yet disappearing just as quickly with the setting sun. Your men are yours to command, we ask only for what little assistance you might give us.

We thank you for the Zurshuk warriors, who are strong and brave. Their "axes" are curious weapons - rather like a butcher's cleaver. They may yet be useful. In return, we send you some fine young uzuks - that you and your men may have a fine feast.[/ic]
[ic=Grand Warden Mihsa of Kashtu to Despotissa Koura of Kuregn]Your concerns are valid, yet they do not change the facts. If we were to ally with you, Celend would surely come against us. The way across the desert is long, and by the time your armies arrived, there would be few of us left to greet them.

Yet I can promise you this: While I am Grand Warden, no army of Kashtu will attack any who does not attack us first, nor will any foreign force move unmolested through Kashtu lands. If you wish to judge our character, I invite you to exchange emissaries of comparable rank.[/ic]
[ic=Grand Warden Mihsa to the Archons of Celend]The desert winds blow news of war. At times like these, all men need to see to their own hearths. Sadly, this will require us to recall our forces from your lands. No doubt, your soldiers need to tend to their homes as well. Our troops are needed at home and can provide you no further assistance at this time. We do make this promise: no army of Kashtu will attack any who does not attack us first, nor will any foreign force move unmolested through Kashtu lands. If you wish to speak more of this, we will gladly exchange emissaries of comparable rank.

With this letter are some fine gifts for your court. Unfortunately, our treasury is taxed with the need of self-defense, so we cannot spare more until the current state of affairs becomes more settled. It is our hope that our previous arrangements may be restored at that time.[/ic]
[ic=Warden Bihrmod to Commander, Kashtu Home Guard]At this time, it is necessary that all foreign forces in Kashtu territory be returned to their lands. This must be accomplished with minimal unpleasantness, yet all necessary haste. Any foreigners who wish to remain and become Kashtu citizens may do so, and will be placed under your command.[/ic]

[ic=In Stravam's rebuilt Strava-Alvyne-Holmevyle ('High Hall of the Strava')]Strava Torchavyn paced as she listened to the newly appointed Labor-Mistress.  All the while she shook her head at the figures.  When the report was over, Torchavyn planted herself in front of Labor-Mistress Hyslyade and asked, 'Why is the reconstruction of glorious Stravam so behind schedule, Hyslyade?'

'My Mistress of Rylodyn, Stravam had been rebuilt to its former self long before I was appointed.  This actually presents a difficulty with your specifications, as we must now tear down what was built to last in addition to building new things.  And with my work crews depleted as they are, this is proving an even more difficult task.'

Strava Torchavyn snorts and tosses her head like a horse.  She fixes the Labor-Mistress with a pitiless stare and replies icily, 'I never claimed this would be an easy task, Hyslyade.  I felt that you were up to the task, a true Andos-woman, ready to face whatever hardships await you.  But if you prove me wrong, I may have to find another and let you have a task more manageable for you, like, say, keeping chamber pots clean.  Now what is this about small work groups?  You are not working them to death, are you?'

'Of course not, Strava.  It is just that many of those who helped rebuilt Stravam in the first place have found their way south, to Krynam.'

'And I have taken steps to correct that, after you first brought this to my attention.  Have not our warriors found enough for you?  Perhaps they need sharper spears.'

'Ah, but Strava, that may be the problem.  For it is not just them, but those north of us, as well, who are being unmanageable.  The northerners fear that the price we offer for their labor is really for their freedom.  This fear is not ungrounded, considering the past.  And I fear that it is not just the past, as you still use your predecessor's mad ways-'

*PHSHLAP*

The Labor-Mistress' ears ring as she reels back from the Strava's slap.  The Strava's voice quivers with emotion as she chokes out, 'Do not speak ill of the dead, faithless.  The Earth-serpent, Svyran, himself grieved at her passing so hard he shook.'

Hyslyade recovered and crossed her hands over her abdomen.  'My liver feels your sorrow and may it poison my wicked tongue for reminding your liver of your sorrow, our sorrow, Andos' sorrow.  I offer my throat and, as my blood is unworthy of your fine blade, my own simple belt knife.'

The other woman takes the knife but merely bows her head and closes her eyes.  She moves the blade until the tip is against the kneeling woman's throat.  Then she shakes her head and sighs out, 'No, Hyslyade, I would be hard pressed to find another of your ability.  Stand up and guard your throat wisely.  Ravens and Serpents know there are enough who would gladly rip it out of a Ryvalnya these days.  And your arrogant tongue speaks some truth.  We are not as strong as we were.  We can no longer crack a whip and get the Ryvan-Holme to do our bidding.  Oh damn, how goes our words with them?'

'Mistress of Rylodyn, I praise you for your glory and wisdom.  As to the Ryvan-Holme, it is not as bad as it was.  We could still certainly use their aid, as they can muster up quite a bit of man power in the present.  Most of their more ridiculous terms have been dropped.  Indeed, they were surely placed in the talks merely as a means of gauging just how'¦desperate we are.  They still insist on a sewer system, though.  They do not seem to understand about how it will weaken our defenses.  Or perhaps those nefarious hags seek to do just that.  But, truth be told, I have detected very little animosity.  Huh, it is almost as if they regard the Ryvalnya as a dying parasite in the healthy host of Stravam.  But they harp on and on about what a squalid hellhole the parts of the city that aren't our strongholds are.  '˜Your boy-children that you leave behind to be Mother-less rarely survive and you care not for those who live there besides---'

'Bah!  What do those soft hags know?  These stony bleak streets harden any who live here!  Strength is what Andos needs more of.  That so many boys die or disappear is just showing you how diluted the blood of the men who sire these children is becoming.'

'When you speak of disappearance, do you speak of the Ryvan-Holme kidnapping them to Kyrnam, my Mistress?'

The Strava bangs her hand against the wall and growls, 'Of course I do.  What right?  They just took my boys a week or two ago.  Oh, how I will miss Thing One and Thing Two.  It was always the highlight of my day when I would see one of them glaring hatefully at the world with my own beautiful eyes.  And what a warrior Thing Two will become!  He was the one who stabbed Krynya Gryscheen in the calf with a stick and tried to steal her fine knife.  Hmm, I told her to kill something worthier of her blade than a bastard street child, but perhaps I should have let her hammer him with her fist for a while.  He certainly won't get that kind of character shaping in soft Krynam.  But I suppose the Ryvan-Holme does have a point:  Less die of Sickness in the Grycham and Ryvham area than here and those two regions have more flowing water.  Perhaps there is a relation.  Also, Thing One had a disgusting penchant for laying in cesspools.  The less of those lying about the better.  Agree to the terms as they are after a final talk and then watch their activities in building it closely.'

As the sun rises, the Labor-mistress sets out to work, but the Strava stops her.  'Work with the love of Rylodyn and the love of my liver, my daughter,' the Strava says as she kisses the younger woman on the forehead, 'And take a flogging at noon and a flogging before you go to bed.  And then a bath in the sea after each, for your insolent tongue.'

'Yes, my mother,' Hyslyade replies.[/ic]

[ic=In the chambers of the Ryvan-Holme]  Knives were being cleaned as the Ryvan-Holme awaited one of the spare Vrenas, who habitually resided in town of Ryvham in case of situations like these, to arrive.  A Vrena lay on the ground bleeding to death.  (She forgot to bring the pineapple-upside-down cake or something, even though it was her turn to do so.  This was irrevocable evidence that she was a witch in the eyes of the Ryvan-Holme.)

Frowning over the broken tip of her knife where it must have hit bone, Vrena Syborain inquired to  Vrena Rorych, 'How go your flocks and crops?'

'Rather well.  I have begun integrating some crops I usually don't grow into my lands.  I found a little bark scroll from way back lying around that spoke of my land's climate and soil and of what crops grew best where.  It could use some work, as it is probably outdated, but it is pretty well done. All in all.'

Vrena Syborain smiles, 'Why I found the very same one.  In fact, I, Vrena Hyaidworv and a few others were discussing resurrecting that little project.'

At the mention of her name, Vrena Hyaidworv wandered over.  'What, what?  I heard my name mentioned.  Hugh, look how black and smelly this blood is.  I must have stabbed into her bowels.  Do you think I should just throw my knife out?  Why are you talking about me, Syborain?'  She squints her eyes suspiciously at the other two women.

Vrena Syrobain puts her hands on her hips.  'For shame, Hyaidworv!  That is a perfectly good knife!  Don't even think about throwing it out!  Anyway, we were discussing our little agricultural survey project.'

'Oh yes, yes,' Hyaidworv nods, 'only this time, we shall have an official survey, not just a Motherhouse handing in figures.  I know for a fact that Hysdyvay never outgrew Hyslicka, Syrobain, but those records say otherwise!'

At that, another living Vrena arrives, making twenty-one, the number required for a council to take place.  'I'm in,' Vrena Rorych replies hastily as she scuttles for a seat.

As the council is called into session, many old projects and land, property and judicial issues are dealt with or put aside until the floor is opened for new business.

At that, Vrena Organstyre stands up, takes the floor and declares:  'I have a proposition'

She then performs an interpretive dance.  At about the middle if it, when she is in the vicinity of the mostly-dead Vrena, the mostly-dead Vrena hisses out something.  Vrena Organstyre glares at her but dances on, as another Vrena stabes the mostly-dead Vrena a few more times ad whispers, 'I was really looking forward to your cake, too.'

At the end of Vrena Organstyre's dance, there is a nodding of heads.  Vrena Yorlyne stands up and says, 'Yes, I quite agree.  If we allow the foolish Southerners into the Lands of the Dead, the West, then they surely will bring doom upon us all.  We will attempt to dissuade them of this.  Unfortunately, I do not believe any of those who went there are still alive, but their grandchildren may suffice.  And your second point was well received as well, Organstyre.  We should seek the Lands of Rebirth in the East.  Immortality will be ours, mwuhaha!'

And there is agreement and a chorus of 'Mwuhaha's throughout the room.'[/ic]

[ic=To Shepherd-chief Meas IV from Hurscha Nolyne of Geethouse Erivyson, as Tongue of the Ryvan-Holme]'So I find myself once again in your court.  Tut, tut, tut.  You remind me of my son Hybryn.  He wanted to explore the cavern under the waves with his friend Gurbin.  He was smaller than Gurbin.  Smaller lungs, too.  He blacked out before he could surface again and drowned.  Gurbin was not that much bigger than him, see, and he could not drag him to the surface against the sea and his own weight.  The point is, use this head,' she taps her skull, 'not the other one!'  She draws her belt knife sand waves it around pointedly at the king, sometimes breaking into a castrating motion, 'Why, I have half a mind to cut the other one off!  My goodness, I hear rumors of shepherds wanting death and laugh them off as meritless jokes about how foolish your people are, and then I hear them myself, and with your backing, no less!  Ravens and Serpents, where are your brains?  Maybe if you became a eunuch, you would grow some common sense in its place!  I mean look at it!  It is common sense!  Every night, even the sun is murdered in that direction!  Nothing lives there, there is only Death!  And Doom!  You are doing so well, why would you seek Doom?  Use your sense!  Besides, there is no one living in the West, past the World's End Mountains!  Just ask Otahvy!  And these men, whose grandfather's went into the Lands of the Dead.  You may listen to their stories on your own time, I know I've heard them plenty of times and there is other business.

Oh yes, me and some others representing our respective Motherhouses wish to tour your farms and learn from your farmers.  We have several dairy goats for you to thank you for your trouble.  Also, their urine is quite useful in dissolving soil from your garments.  We would also like to welcome you and your people to a little council we will be holding in Krynam over agricultural matters.  Oh, and one of your shepherds would like your blessing in marrying one of my cousins.  He and she are with us, awaiting his father, oddly enough, but is quite easy to find for summoning.[/ic]

[ic=Avelayne of Geethouse Ovaytyes to Dragonlord Gregor]  We have noticed men probing our shores for the best place to resupply before continuing west into the lands we discovered.  I beseech you to reconsider.  Look at it logically.  The sun dies in the west every night.  What chance do you have of surviving it, then, if the sun cannot.  I have with me men whose grandparents traveled into these lands.  I trust that their stories will prove to you that the west is the Land of the Dead.  Indeed, the Chiefs of Otahvy can tell you that there is nothing living over the World's End Mountains.  I am surprised you have not learned this yourself, as you seem a smart and capable leader, even if you are a man.[/ic]

[spoiler=World's End Mountains]The Andosens believe that the mountains west of Otahvy are where the World of the Living ends.  While they have heard that land has been discovered west of Otahvy, they assume one or a combination of the following assumptions:
a)    While Lowbloods (Mandrians) are better than Southerners, there is still weakness in them, which is the only reason they would want to leave Andos, and this weakness extends to their brains.
b)   The dead can cast spell on them to make them see glorious cities, but Andosens are resistant to these magics and saw the Land of the Dead for what it really is
c)   Ghosts and demons can build cities too
d)   The Lowbloods are on drugs
e)   They are liars
f)   It is a strategy to kill those who oppose them in the Middle Sea[/spoiler]

[ic=Hyvanna of Geethouse Tralynory in Arrania]Greetings, Great Chieftan of Arrania.  I have come seeking an Andosen man known as Hychavor the Natural.  We also desire to discuss how you fared in the shuddering of The Earth-serpent, Svyran.  We hope that his disgust of the Strava and the Ryvalnya did not cause you too much damage, but we were too busy recovering ourselves to offer any aid.  We would like to determine how you constructed the buildings which took the least damage and learn more of your masonry and alchemy.  We would also like to draw on your memories of traveling here from the east so that we can launch expeditions to the east.  Since you have a Chronicler in residence, you are even eligible to have a new Motherhouse started within your nation.  This is a high honor.  And you might be worthy of it.[/ic]

[ic=By Order Of The Machta's Regent]All ships from the following unfriendly nations: Inveran, Avardera, the Auriban, are now banned from entering port. Such ships will be fired upon immediately, taken, and all goods stripped and men enslaved for the glory of the Machta. All praise the Machta's regent. All praise the One True People of the Machta-In. All praise those who follow the light and join the Machta-In as friends. All praise the Machta.[/ic]

[ooc]I hope this conflict happens, frankly. :P[/ooc]

[ic=To Governor Udai, From the Free Captains]
We are honored you look for our interests so, our friend. Please, a meeting would be most pleasurable, as we of the League are always willing to try new goods, and see their fare.[/ic]

 [ic=To Peshuek Lharmok]
This bean drink is very interesting, and the potentials intrigue us. You have a deal. Should your people need a safe haven should Kuregn and Celend brawl, do not hesitate to ask.[/ic]

 [ic=The Captains Meet]
"I do not like it."

"Who does?"

"Scarce a generation since they had nothing, and Inveran thinks to challenge us on the waves?"

"I hear they train their sailors to fight on land. That makes their crews dangerous."

"No more dangerous than their provocation of us! If we cannot match their men, we'll match their ships. See if their fighting talents let them swim better."

"Do you mean war?"

"No, I spoke in haste. Of yet we are merely rivals, and the day the league can not match rivals in trrade is the day I retire."

"You know..."

"NO, I don't. Why don't you tell me?"

"No need ta be rude, brother, but, why not choke them?"

"I don't follow."

"We've got the wealth, we've got the connections, let's out-do these watersnakes and let them drown. Anytime we hear of Inveran deals, we send ships to beat them."

"Sounds risky..."

"So's breathing, if you do it wrong."[/ic]