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SCENE ONE

THIS DISASTER AFFECTS EVERYONE -AFTER- THEIR TURNS
For three entire months, it does not rain. The sun beats harshly on the desiccated land. The heat of noon is unbearable. Across the Steppe, the Giants Corridor, and the Onkankan Plains, dried grass sets aflame. Bush & forest fires run rampant. Crops wilt in the fields, the soil becomes sand. Marsh and Oases alike dry up. Rivers deplete, lakes turn to salt, living things all about fall dead from thirst & sunstroke. Ice melts, in the peaks and tundra, giving way to the rock beneath. The evening sky looms blood red.

>>4002586
>Ashbeards
Their new mountainhome suits the Dwarves quite finely, like a fist in the eye. Though much of the peak is the same as any other, save its dark stone, deep within lay a chamber of molten rock. This is the cause of the acrid smell and smoky air. Ingenious, and often lazy, as they are, the Dwarves harness the magma for their own ends. Of course nothing of Dwarven make could move nor contain it, its immense heat was used within the cities forges, and vents circulated the hot air throughout the warrens.
(The Second Kahro War will begin once other parties have replied)

>>4002795
>Soghoia
[R] Through the usual channels, word reaches the more, unscrupulous, merchants that both Soghoian Leaf, and Opium have been banned in the Snakes country. This however has not stopped the demand.
(you most certainly have at least basic Tarnic by now) Refining begins in earnest at Quagspire, extracting the sulphur from the marsh gas. Though far from perfect, the methods are the best available. This means the gas still retains an off smell and yellowish colour, but this proves useful for the detection of leaks at the very least. The much cleaner gas is siphoned into new round pressure vessels and transported to River Reed by road or canal. For now the gas is prohibitively expensive, as is the fitting of devices which use it. At present it is only in use by the government, along important thoroughfares, and in the homes of the upper-merchant class. Nevertheless, work continues in shops and schools in fabricating new or improved mechanisms and devices for gas use. Much is made of the intricacies of Soghoian bronze working, which may prove valuable in trade.

>>4003364
>FHR
Learning from the hard learnt mistakes of the past, and with space inside Andreths walls at a premium, the Engineers District is constructed north-east of the capital. Though being of such importance, it too is walled. The brightest minds of every clan, including a great number of Othinians, are enrolled into the new colleges and academies, whilst also creating workshops of their own. T'would be the noblest of endeavours.

>>4003415
>Tidal
One more language, Meluz, is inscribed. And too the language of their neighbour, the Frog-folk called Soghoians. Made all the more easy by the widespread use of Xyctho-Tarnic by the amphibians. Of course, both contained sounds nigh-unpronounceable, the Meluzians sibilance, and the Soghoian croaking. No matter, they are encoded all the same.
With such a device, the world may be forever changed. The secrecy of Clan Amplect is warranted in this instance. A large quantity of wood is needed, not only for the devices themselves, but for all that is needed with them; the type, the clamps, the cases, etc., etc.. The pieces are carved separately, so that no others can copy them. Imports of whole Gylden oak skyrocket, secretly for the oak-apples, as does the import of cheap & low-grade iron from wherever it can be obtained. Pretence for each action abounds, no one is to know the true purpose. With vices and ink collected, all that remains is paper. All manner of media are tried, Soghoian reeds, Meluz hides, Tarnic cloth, Gylden bark-rolls. Though each is sub-par, they are currently what is available. Researchers are set to the task of creating a better alternative.

>>4003782
>Tarn
This northern expedition sees Tarn travelling, hesitantly, first and foremost into Ashen lands (>>4002586). Those who do not travel into the mountain kingdom cross through sandy soils into the territory of a race of tall, dark-skinned people (>>3999701).
Settlers begin slowly trickling south again, as fear of the past events fades. And with the ever present need for lumber, a few go to seek their fortune. Much of what was once built has collapse, or otherwise fallen into disrepair with time. Nature reclaims a great deal of what was lost, and saplings have begun to rise. Helped, it seems, by the arrival of the Golden Dwarves.

>>4003873
>Gyldenthrong
Carts of settlers, arborists, and guardsdwarves shuttle eastwards. They find the abandoned Tarnic village has been mostly reclaimed by Nature, though new Tarn have begun to venture south. With the help of Gylden knowledge, the Tarn build for themselves a well defended krepost.

>>4004582
>Llychlyn
Work begins on walling Allfshys. First foundation trenches, and then the foundation stones themselves, encircling not only the city proper but including a good deal of land with it for future expansion. It is a great effort, but one for which the population is grateful, for now they know their island is not alone. The plans are finalised for the walls design; a heavy stone base, mounted with triple layered wooden walls, surmounted with crenelated walkways. Three impressive towers would survey the land, and if the need arose, call the capital to arms. Decoration was nowhere in Blodwyn's design, leaving such frippery to her sister and her team.

>Llychlyn cont.
Ship had begun being designed and tested a short while before the outsiders had landed, but with word slowly spreading of their arrival, Llewelyn representatives were sent to see this ship for themselves. Though only observed from a distance, many sketches were made of the anchored vessel, and these would be incorporated into later designs, the journey back taking a long time. Fishing ships become somewhat of a minor status symbol among the lesser clans who could afford them, often used more for show than actually fishing. But with fish being a Lunedanned staple food and export, fishing of course still occurred.
Work continues at the Fanw-forsaken place. The grinding noise and steps slowly creep closer.

>>4005374
>Cravers
Raut'let, scourge that they are, feast upon the trees and beasts alike, to sate themselves. When at last they have destroyed their lot, they make for themselves a nest of flesh, and await their next meal. In Neverborn and Abattoir alike, experiments into Sable replication begins. The project shows success, with the recent birth of the chitinous Raut'let proving a great help. A single monstrous facsimile of an Ant is produced, on & from it can other tests commence, specifically that which will restore the Matriarch of the Sable. It is now a matter of fleshcraft, of grafting, and of rejection. The flesh is simply too dissimilar, perhaps fresh Sable bodies would be better hosts.

>>4005419
>Vossiks
Foolish deckhands, the ship is the finest to ever sail! We continue! Depaun and Kraken alike swim hastily away from the charging vessel, beelining through the Tidal Empire's waters. Coming closer again to the mainland they see men, much like those of FHR savages, though different enough in dress and tongue. Continuing along their sandy shore they soon spy more of those scaled creatures, farming of all things. Further still they hit cold waters, and the island covers itself with ice. Breaking through these waters is difficult, and after a miscalculation they end up stuck fast in the ice!
Through direct, and indirect methods, Elezen culture spreads throughout the west, and even the south in some parts. The Elf creates, and their handmaiden the Othinian disseminates. Though they may not admit it, or perhaps even know it, certain aspects filter into the FHR, chiefly those of the fine & culinary arts. Of course given Human disdain for them, Othinians are known to paint over golden skin and chip off pointed ears. Rare Elezen ingredients travel through Hacmos hands into the B'oos, for study of course. And, on very very rare occasion, a song or story slips southwards, to Gylden lips and ears.

>>4005665
>B'yogi
Countless tests and trials, attempting to apply scientific thought to its very antipode, result in failure. But the B'oo are not ones to be discouraged, they instead put their minds to other things; why does the fish live in water die on land, while the rabbit does the opposite? This is not the end to the use of turquoise however, its ritual use continues. For it is through these rituals, of death masks, of casting stones, of elaborate outfits, that the stone is given power. It is the belief, and not the experiment, which does so. Something within the B'yogi tells them such, to place faith in the stone, and not to, no matter how much they wish to, investigate it. Fantastical costumes are created, covered with turquoise & silver mosaic, along with small shells and feathers, strictly for ritual and magical uses. With them, their practice of illusion magics improves. Able to dampen sound or sight around oneself, casting shadows or lights at a whim! For now, an awesome parlour trick, but in time. In time!
Clay and stone and metal melt alike when trying to retrieve the acid from the pool, but with their new-found understanding of the thing, a turquoise pot safely holds the liquid. The Serpent stirred violently when the first vessels were tried, calmed only by the B'oos gifts, of statues, of pots, of things they themselves valued. But with the turquoise pot, she was still. Everything but turquoise would dissolve in the stuff. Yet unlike her pool, which became clear, the liquid in the pot became cloudy and dark.
For them, at least, it was the belief in magic that held power, and not the magic itself. It was a strange lesson for the B'yogi, but one they came to accept.

>>4006094
Sable
Labyrinth continues to vex the hive. As does almost every decision the Matriarch makes. Many simply put there antennae down and continue to work, and do as they're told. It's not like she's ordering sacrifices, or eating her own young, as mad matriarchs of the past have done! Mercurial Joy, as the scribes call it, is administered in minute doses at first, though successive dosages increase to achieve the same effect. The Matriarch flits between lucidity and The Queen's Chambers daily, sometimes hourly. She is yet to slip completely, but her footing is uneasy. Those in-the-know hope the Cravers or Kahro come up with Something!

>>4006153
>Meluzina
Somewhat inspired by their Lords, and with the armour they had provided, a fighting force is established. A few at first, those who do or had guarded the racial representatives or their nests, but with the promise of honour (and a good wage) more would apply. Enough that recruiters could be picky, selecting only the fittest and most loyal they could find. With word of war against the grey flesh of the north spreading, many take up arms in militias alongside the National Guard.

>Meluzina cont.
[NM] The tower of Ásteri dominates the landscape and can be seen, on a clear night, from River Reed. Here the Meluz plot the stars, detail constellations, and listen to the Void. For many nights they gaze upwards, drawing up what they can see, but it is the spaces in-between which they truly wish to observe. It is an especially cold night when it comes, another Message from the Void: LOOK INTO THE EARTH THAT HAS BIRTHED YOU.. BENEATH YOU NOW IT LAYS BURIED.. A TREASURE NO OTHER HOLDS.. SEE.. (CHOICE! Lapis, Malachite, or Onyx)

>>4000023
>Incarnationis
Old Flesh, those set to guard the Pound of the old Delta arrive on the shores, and tell of how their foe marched on them at once, in huge numbers. To stay would be to die, and so they threw themselves into the Gyre, in hopes of something better. And here they are deposited, reunited with their kin!
Only a few days later, hunks of unknown gore wash ashore, tatters of scaled skin and shell. With them comes flotsam of a strange kind, earthenware, cloth, and metals. In the afternoon, a survivor is found, though he is gravely injured. He would stand a great height, he is scaly, winged, and overall like nothing the Kahro have before seen. Should he be tended to? Restored to health? What if he is yet another oppressor? (>>4003402)

DIPLO
>>4002586
Though they are savage, they are not beasts. The Redcaps know the gifts are being left by another. When they again venture to where the last gifts were left, they are especially vigilant. This goes out the window as they spy the bountiful feast the Dwarves had laid. Many of the other gifts were once again ignored, save the pickaxes, which they wield as if they are weapons and not tools. They squabble in their strange tongue, and beat each other with hand & pick. When at last the fight is over, they are bloodied and bruised, but go back to feasting on the gifts. Mindful of the ales effects, they imbibe far less than before, remaining lucid enough to eventually spot the peeking Dwarves. The Ashen noticed that the Emerald ones as they had come to be known, did not shriek and hiss and throw as they had before. Though whether this was through kinship or merely the ale, they couldn't say. Well, nothing ventured, a Dwarf steps up. He is greeted by the Redcaps with cheers, of a display of fiery disappearances and reappearances, it is obviously all in good nature.

>>4004528
Those beasts the Dwarves keep are vicious, chewing at the metal bars of their cages, snapping and howling at any who approach them. They are beyond rescue. Though perhaps, a Dwarf thinks, they would make good entertainment somehow. Say, if they were to fight each other, or criminals, or captives...

END OF SCENE ONE

>>4006351

Time passed peacefully as Llychlyn once again worked away.
Then soon enough more had passed and once again came the day.
Suddenly without warning, the forests and fields went quiet.
And with that news that Llychlyn's wilds stood still made much disquiet.


The time before the drought and heat had business simply continue as usual with little changing, however, soon before the rain stopped, the forests of Llychlyn, for only a single day, went quiet. The wilds themselves stood still, and hunters could barely catch anything in the forests and plains. The tell tale sign from Fanw that something terrible was coming. And something terrible did come, horrible heat which made many uncomfortable, and a few even pass out in the warmer, northern parts of Llychlyn, in fact a few might have even perished from the heat. Yet, what was worse was the lack of rain, which made it harder for the limited amount of agriculture to sustain Llychlyn, and made the animals in the forests have a harder time as well. Many prayed to Fanw that things might get better, and in some instances, it did. Days with cooler breezes occasionally came from the south. But, this alone wasn't enough, and eventually a fire had started in the plains to the south of Allfshys. Future plans were put to the side for now as Llychlyn dealt with the disaster.

Luckily for Llychlyn, the memory of the fire in Allfshys was still well in mind, and there was still plenty inside the city who were experienced with the method of clearing area's nearby the fire in order to contain it. Priority was given to make sure the fires couldn't reach Allfshys or the forests to the south, and once that was done, attempts to limit the damage to the portion of the plains it was in already would be done as much as possible.

Despite the existence of the Fanw forsaken place in the south, it was cooler down there, and a decent amount from the north headed south and settled in Lunedannedd. Naturally, due to their new proximity to that place, more volunteers would head to that place to help destroy it, either to secure their new home or simply because it was cooler there, and at this point most of Llychlyn would say they'd rather be freezing than burning.

>Action One. Limit the spread of the fire to the south, priority given to protect Allfshys and the forests to the south. They'd not directly fight against the fire, instead limit the ability for it to spread, and let it starve.

>Action Two. More volunteers head south to deal with the Fanw forsaken place, as well as a decent amount of Wynn guards with the news the grinding and footsteps are getting closer. Most non superstitious didn't believe that there actually was anything down inside that forsaken labyrinth, but it was better to be safe than sorry, and more people with weapons and training guarding them certainly helped make the workers feel safer.

>>4005456

The people of the small town seemed to agree and seemed interested in the sea peoples culture, or humans as they called themselves. At least before the weather turned hot. Regardless, even after they still agreed for they were people of their word, yet they were certainly concerned given the way things had changed. They'd even explain how the forests and fields all around Llychlyn went silent for a day and little game was caught, a sign of disaster for Llychlyn as a whole. So, a decent amount were happy to go with them if they planned on heading to their lands for their celebration, at least temporarily.

>>4006349
1. The fire inside the border forest was quite noticeable, Thank Sajaak for the nearby river, as it will provide a nearby area for sourcing water to combat the blaze. If we let the fire spread, then out primary source of lumber would vanish, and the resulting shockwaves would drive up prices of wood overall. When volunteers arrived, the river was far lower then it normally was, but there was still much water to be used.
>Combat the forest fire.

2. Back inside Andreth, a Joint project between Clan Dzen and Varke had come to fruition, and was about to be presented to the Daiimad. It was to be the first test of the New district's findings, though what it was exactly was only known to clans Dzen and Varke.

>>4006348

>Action 1: Fire Breaks

When Guldfar beams, the crops across the lands ripen beneath his golden gaze. But when he scowls, the land suffers his heated wrath. As the priests hold vigil at shrines and temples across the land, downing vast quantities of ale then passing out in the mid-day light to commune with the golden god to try and convince him to turn his fury elsewhere. Regardless of the successes (or lack of these), Dwarven workers and Cewri giants start clearing strips of land around the burning areas, devoiding them of vegetation, then digging out ditches and raising mound-lines by their side to provide barriers to stop the flame spreading and leaping.


>Action 2: Fire Fighting

The Army of Dwarves that had been mustering for support of the northern war is instead deployed into the fields, pastures, woods and valleys of the Gyldenland. Stopping small fires, or preventing fires at all, is reckoned to be easier then battling a mighty flame grown fat on Æblemor's life and the Guldfar's warmth. So whilst many warriors are still deployed to the locale of the burning fields to support local efforts, many more are sent around the nation to organise local responses. Dry, flammable undergrowth is to be cleared away to prevent it catching, and should small fires start to burn then these will be fought quickly, before they can blossom. A nation prepared will, hopefully, not be one ablaze.


>Diplomacy: Redbeards (Goblins) (+Ashbeards?)

Grugnir Gnavkop rides next to where our silver kin left the 'gift' they had been passed to the earth. Though there is little of his son there, that which remains is interred within a Golaetur'kot of wood and clay, all that can be fashioned quickly into a shape vaguely reminiscent of the unfortunate Glon.

Then, Grugnir and his warriors head further south, to join with the band of Silver Dwarves treating with these redbeards. They have bought ale and forged trinkets enough that they will not be free-loaders; but Grugnir wants answers from the redbeards, to learn of his son's true fate.

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Civilization: Soghoia
Flag: The Eternal Flame
Political Structure: Elected Leader, Elected Council and Constiution of Laws
Government: FWD, EFG
Religion: 80% Tadism (Polytheism), 20% Taolism (Monotheism)
Language: Soghoian (fluent), Xyctho-Tarnic (fluent), Tarnic (basic), Kalkahn (basic), Depauns (primitive)
Culture/Art: Victorian Architecture
Settlements:
• River Reed *Capital* (City Wall, City Gates, Watchtowers, Housing, Roads, Primary Schools, Trade Schools, Guilds, University, Tarn Embassy, Water Treatment Plant, Sewers and Plumbing) [Concrete Block, Yellow Glass & Bronze Construction]
• Quagspire (Gas Extraction Plant, Gas Refinery, Sewage Treatment Plant, Landfill) [Concrete Block, Yellow Glass & Bronze Construction]
Resources and Technology: map of sigod, marsh gas, methane, sulfur, concrete, gas extraction, gas refining, bronze making, glass making, charcoal, fire bombs, pressurized tanks, pipes, wicks, valves, spigots, flat bottomed boats, bow, spear, sword, shield, pottery, marsh-poppy, fishing nets and swamp tubers.

Action 1 & 2: The frogfolk decide to create an all purpose weapon that can be used by anyone in the nation regardless of combat skill. The weapon consists of two bronze tanks fitted on the wearer's back adjusted by two hide straps. The tanks are connected to a few bronze pipes ending in a latch behind a small wick. A combined mixture of sulphur, methane and various liquids are tested extensively and once perfected, the final resulting substance is pressurized into the tanks. When the latch is pulled, the liquid vapors are shot across the lit wick throwing a bright blue flame in a steady stream. The frogfolk test these new weapons deep in the wilderness away from civilization.

>>4006351
The dwarves had not given permission for foreigners to walk upon their land.
Any and all Tarn are stopped and detained by what would likely be militia dwarves of nearby settlements.

>>4006358
Surprised but pleased with the response given by the blood bearden emerald kin, the rest of the dwarves in hiding come out with additional gifts in hand, mostly food and ale yet again, but some would share ingots of numerous metals and trinkets made in the capital.
The dwarves try to communicate and ask many questions that are not understood, but hopefully they are at least able to gather what these savages would desire most in a potential trade and would attempt to invite a few to stay in either the Ashen Outpost or within Zarjotun'torzdun so that they may eventually learn to communicate more in depth.
If refused, they would instead ask that some diplomats and researchers be allowed to dwell alongside the emerald ones instead.
Both offers are only temporary of course.

As for the captured beasts, a new method of execution for the most vile of crimes, but mostly acts of treason is created. A pit would be created for spectators to watch the fights as the dwarven criminal is given a large knife to defend himself.

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Therknuunaz blesses the land with his warmth!
Nearby land of Zarjotun'torzdun opens up to be used as pasture for livestock. Soon they may properly expand to make full use of it.
Additionally up north in the capital, melting ice allows for many chimneys to be constructed, cleaned, and repaired without having to suffer the deep snow and piercing winds, making that area a *hot* spot for growth.
The resulting flow of water rushing down the western rivers is taken to be stored in unused quarries, eventually being sent into the parched grasslands north, sustaining the farmland enough so that the impact of the drought is not so hard.

Further blessings are seen even further north, but it would appear they come too strong. The fiery might of Therkuunaz scorches the earth. Clearly he supports the dwarves in their effort to combat the beasts beyond, improving the morale of many, but at the cost of the morale of the farmers working ever so close to the growing blaze.
To ensure what remains of their crops does not become devoured by the gluttonous fires approaching, farmers gather everyone they can, including any nearby soldiers that can be spared, but mostly with the aid of the miners sharing the same land they work to dig trenches so that the fire cannot spread to valuable land. A perimeter is struck into the earth many meters wide, forcing the fire to look elsewhere if it wishes to continue gorging itself.
Naturally, the warriors heading north will for now alter their marching further west to avoid being overtaken by the fire if it pursues north, passing them, or at least giving them time to move if the course changes.
>Divert Therkuunaz's Wrath

Following in the hoofsteps of the lowland dwarves, mounts would seem to be quite useful for many situations. Particularly the northern territories which now see growing focus on and would benefit greatly from improved means of transportation.
A breed of large goat normally used to haul stone or carts for trade are bred further to allow mounting which proves to be noticeably faster and agile than the boars of the south, however their use in warfare would be more limited to scouting and light attacks upon enemies' flanks or used as a platform to harass a foe with javelins.
>Northern Cavalry

The great and all powerful fiery might of Therkuunaz, the God of Forge and Flame spreads across the world as prophecies long ago carved within the stone underworld home to the dwarves continues to be witnessed.
From below bursts hot Ash to devour the world and be forged into His image. Skies to be blackened in soot, the wretched Ilgiavulztod blinded will be brought down and slain.
But the flame will grow cold, requiring further fuel to the forge to proceed.
Glory be to Therkuunaz. His will be done.

>>4006353
1. The greedy veins of Neverborn trail deep into the ocean from their bone anchors. The drought has come and with it blood must be harshly rationed. A minor tweaking of the Sable's contribution of a liquid storing insect bear fruit. Soon the converted Blood Vats serve as useful tools for fleshshaping, food supply, and emergency hibernation if need be.

2. Greater progress must be made if the Ant Queen is to be pleased. Shaped inside the blood filled womb of the Blood Vats, these new prototypes are tested for viability in egg laying in the contained Oasis.

>>4006348
>Action One.
A congregation, a mass of slime and melting bone and body's. The land has been left Barren of stone, Towering blobs of slime are sent forth, to consume, to expand, alongside a horde, eagerly and friendly plying for entrance inside villages and hordes and forcing their way in if not provided entrance.

>Action Two.
The Crocidilian tribe have finally been processed, Sharp teeth, body's perfect for swimming, for trekking through swamps, they are creatures of war, slimes made to bite through armor and flesh, to subdue new congregants!

>>4006355
It seems H'bapi is quite angry this season. Hopefully S'cie can calm him down and M'ed bonk his head for carelessly setting ablaze the world.

1.Knowledge is important but so is your home! B'yogi create the Bureau of Nature and Disasters to organize parties to quickly put out fires and such and research the natural world with better direction.
2.Research will be put on hold. B'yogi try to contain the fire so they can burn themselves out.l

1. Fire Containment

The fires that break out in the hills and forested slopes of the highlands at first go unchallenged. The space of woodland they had broken out in was fed only by small streams and regular rainfall and both had dried up. As the fires burned away valuable woodland and encroached upon the kosts proper a call for action went out. The only solution to fighting the fire it seemed was to use the closest body of water. The river Sennai would have to be dammed and diverted to fight the fights raging near Gilden Voss. While that task was carried out both fire breaks and more arcane methods would need to be employed to fight the spread of fires to the rest of the hills. Lightseers of the Lightbringer are brought to the west to use their control over the flames to dampen and redirect the flames away from moving further into Elezen land. The workers constructed fire breaks and funnels to channel the flames toward areas where they could be fought and contained. Further west the work on the Sennai river began. The walls went up, turning the weakly flowing river into a reservoir from which water could be slowly and meticulously pumped and carried along what limited irrigation lines existed. It would starve the human lands of water needed to fight their fire, but the safety of Gilden Voss and the many gold mines and kosts in the west was deemed more important. Between these two measures, the fire could slowly be fought to a stand-still. It would still ravage and destroy much of the hills, and some towers were left blackened and abandoned in the wake of the conflagration.

2. Drought and the Blame
As the seasons without water wore on it was revealed that the Elezen's preparations for battle were not made in error. The kosts had ample stores of food that could survive a year of poor harvests, and with rationing, even stretch into a weak harvest for the next. The withering crops elsewhere could be supported by what food could be grown from the still flowing rivers from the mountains. The Kosts were fine. The cities, which had long outgrown their simple food networks and required support from the kosts to pacify the population, were not. In Renthum food riots quickly broke out after the year without a regular delivery. Some left the cities to find aid elsewhere. Others demanded action. For the priests of the Lightbringer who had long warned of the Bright One's displeasure with Elezen conduct it was an ample opportunity. As sacrifices failed and prayer went unanswered the clergy called instead to the hungry mods of Renthum and other cities to force the Vossaya to take action. The Lightbringer demanded the Humans be driven out. That the humans were to blame. This curse was because the unfaithful were allowed to reside on Elezen land. The heat and the drought were signs of the Lightbringer's displeasure, and only by following his commands could the rains return and the fires be stopped. The debate in the Vossaya was fierce. Andreth delenda est.

>>4006351
As many things happen the book factory is set to the side by Amplect. It should be ready very soon but right now there are many things to do. Soon we may be able to sell these books abroad, but it just needs a few more touches before it is completed and revealed to be a thing to our population. Perhaps the new income gained from the drought may help to finance it.

Action 1:
>Property Recovery Edict
The rapid burning of large portions of Paitoy lands is not as dire as it could have been, as the recent annexation of new farm lands had decreased the population density by a large margin. Now Paitoy leadership wishes to save what they had in their original farmland, they call for help and the ruling Amplect, supported by the obedient Lyrarans send their support. A large contingent of Temple Guard, hire wings and those who must repay their debt are sent in to help. Their focus is on extinguishing the new flames and containing the inferno, this is done through organized teams designed to push great amounts of air on the fledgling flames, overwhelming them with air and taking them out before they can become a larger threat. Several farms, mostly those which were neglected due to so many dragons leaving to farm on the continent are intentionally allowed to burn down, as it is believed that the ashes of the useless and annoying plants which took over those areas may allow the dry ground to soon produce a fertile harvest of crops enriched by the dead.
>send in dragons to regulate the flames so they can't destroy to much

Action 2:
>Hard Times Offer Hard Opportunities
The advent of the great drought may prove to be Amplect's greatest legacy, as they sense their dynasty may soon be replaced. Immediately maps are drawn from and the locations where the drought may have hit the hardest (and areas where it may have been negligible) are assessed. Areas which have a great bounty of food are bought from, the food preserved and loaded up onto the ships. This food is then transported and sold in markets where it can be sold for the most money as the depauns can get their hands on. All the governments which may become unstable are watched closely as some dragons are armed for mercenary work, for if in any of them a rebellion or unrest begins we want to intervene with our own troops, in return for loot and maybe even the indebting of them (as a government whose money we can control is one under our control). This would also show us to be trustworthy in the eyes of all governments as it would show us to be loyal to those who trade with us and thus worthy of closer and more intimate relations.
>take advantage of the drought in order to make big bux from starving peoples

>>4006153 (diplo - Meluzina)
The document is swiftly translated to Meluzina script after problems in the Depaun bureaucracy slow down the time it takes for the representatives to arrive. The document is very straightforward, it outlines arrival times and contains edicts of mutual law abiding during trading. It has rules for the judicial process for all sorts of snakes who violate trade treaties (including possible examples of crimes which may be committed by a rouge depaun) or tax laws which can be altered by the King through negotiations. The Dragons ask of the King that he produce a set of treaties made by his own people which pertain to how trade shall be conducted so that both parties can benefit most efficiently.

>>4006351
>Another Short action today, my life is pretty busy atm. Will start making better turns soon, I pormise.

Action 1: Learn the language of Pokos, and teach them Xyctho-Tarnic. If another language is possible, learning Ashbeard tongue would be ideal as well

Action 2: Cope with the drought
The Council orders the building of reservoirs, and the dikes on the Jaakal river are improved into dams to stopper up the water for distribution to parched areas. Small community fire brigades form to cope with the fires that the hot, dry conditions produce.

>>4009137
Addendum to Action 2: In the hot grasslands of Tarnia, large tusked creatures roam. It is experimented if these creatures can be trained to transport large jugs of water to the parched villages of Tarnia/

>>4006355
Actions:

- Kept safely within the prolific bosom of the Hirudon Jungles, the drought that has recently swept the world has yet to severely endanger the ants. The transformation of what used to be lush oasis to the west of the Catacombs into vast desert acts as a stern warning for the them. The last disaster the ants faced was sudden, like the giant jungle vipers that strike suddenly from the trees. This one has been much more merciful, giving the ants time to prepare. The broodmothers of the Crypts see opportunity on the red horizon, and encourage the breeding operations of the Aya-fi'eds. The rivers of the swamps are rich in numerous plants that grow alongside the banks, greedily sipping away at the bounty that so lazily floats passed them. The ants begin a large scale honeydew farming operation by letting the Ayas joyfully slurp up every drop of moisture they can get, storing away as much as possible in the event that the drought should worsen. Some of this honeydew is distributed to the mining warrens far North to help with the extreme conditions they face.

>>4008002
>Diplo: Cravers
- The scribes work tirelessly alongside the flesh monks. Although they cannot shape flesh, they are able to understand and study their own anatomy none the less. Aiding them in their research, the scribes provide key insight into the inner workings of the ants. Their work has reached a crossroads however. So far their efforts have focused on the anatomy of the standard casts of workers, soldiers, caelum and titanoms. If they are to complete their work, they need more. They need a living test subject, and the latest At'Ka'Rak has provided many delightful ones. A small handful of the worst performing broodmothers from the latest trials are summoned to the Mausoleum, a secret invitation from the Matriarch herself. The excitement of being chosen for a secret audience with the Matriarch turned into horror once they arrived. Once safely secured behind closed doors, the broodmothers are locked away in the chamber of the Monks' and experimented on relentlessly. The Matriarch and the inner circle take no pride in these deeds but it's too late to turn back. They must see this work through, not only for the Matriarch but for a grander future for ant kind. Nethazar continues to rest, it won't be long until her patience has paid off. Her grand vision can almost begin to take shape in reality...

>>4009411
Ant Guy again, new device.

>>4009049
>Diplo: Tidal
The Meluz representatives read over the document carefully, scanning each sentence with the utmost diligence. Upon finishing the document, they politely decline the offer, their reasoning being that "we don't want our trade to be taxed by someone we barely know. You could change the tax at any moment, crippling us in any hour of need. Frankly, we just met you. We don't even know your leader, yet you come to our capital with your hand open. As it stands, our trade efforts are going just fine without global influence."
The representatives then ask their contract-holders to leave.

>1: Try and extinguish the fire near the capital
The grasslands are burning! Our precious home, thrashed by wily flames! Taking quick action, the representatives decide to send all they can to that sector. The fire is fueled by the dry grass, so that means there's an obvious solution to this problem. Cut off the fuel source, revealing castor's fire-proof dirt to the open air by cutting out the surrounding grass at its roots. At all costs, we must not let these flames spread too far, or else risk the furthest burning of our grasslands.

>2: explore east, from Thesi
The first settlers in the town of Thesi still hunger to see the unseen. Traveling Eastward initially brought them a nice place for more to settle down. As such, these explorers wonder what else their journey will hold. Good friends, and long-time traveling partners reunite to hike along the coast once again. With them, they bring just enough provisions to find their way back, as well as eat, sleep, etc. All the necessities.
(No map pic because I'm on mobile. Just bring me 2 sectors east from Thesi)

>Diplo: Ashenbeards
After much consideration, the representatives accept these new residents. Though their numbers are closely kept track of, under a "dwarven census", which is intended to record the dwarves that enter the nation, and those who exit. As such, a law is created, stating that any dwarves who plan on entering or exiting our nation are to apply for a travel permit. In order to receive a travel permit, one must prove that they are not a dangerous or mischievous individual. Not that we don't trust the dwarves, but as of right now, tensions are high on all sides. We just want to play it safe, since we don't need any trouble from anyone. Not even our close allies.

>Action 1: Barricade the Mausoleum
Though the Ants and Kahro are not yet fully comfortable with each other, the Mausoleum still represents the unity of their nation. The Kahro hope that in crafting walls and defenses for the city their people share, the Ants will come to understand the friendly intentions of the Kahro.

>Action 2: Hatchery in Flesh Mission
The supply of flesh is vast and versatile. The finest of war beasts can be crafted from the loose flesh of these people. To fully facilitate the breeding of an army here, a new hatchery is established next to the supplies of flesh.

>Diplo?: Tarn
The figure is rescued and made to observe and note instanced of the Kahro's advanced nonverbal communication.

>>4006725
The Tarns are confused but ultimately understanding. They sincerely apologize for the misunderstanding, telling the dwarves that they were explorers and not aware that this was Ashbeard land. To settle any remaining bad feelings, the dwarves are offered gifts of salt in exchange for releasing the prisoners. This an expensive commodity for the Tarns, who must purchase it from the Tidal Empire. However, if the dwarves don't want salt, alternative payments can be arranged. If released, the Tarns will go home and spread the word to their fellow explorers, explaining that the Ashbeards do not wish foreigners to enter their land without permission.

>>4009558
Tarns approach the Meluzina, offering opiates in exchange for cinnabar. The opiates are useful both for recreational and medical purposes. Tarnish apothecaries use them to soothe pain, sedate madmen, and ease anxiety. The Meluzina are also offered the opportunity to set up reciprocal embassies in Xycthos and Megalo.

>>4006534
Tarns approach the Gyldenthrong, offering opiates in exchange for gold or crafted items(armor, spears, etc.). The opiates are useful both for recreational and medical purposes. Tarnish apothecaries use them to soothe pain, sedate madmen, and ease anxiety. The dwarves are also asked about the Cewri view of death.

>>4009790
>Diplo: Tarn
The Meluzina are happy to give up that crystal, but are confused by the ways in which opium could be used recreationally. What does it do exactly? They ask for an explanation.

>>4009832
The Tarns explain that the plant is usually either dried and smoked or brewed into a herbal tea. The effect is quite relaxing and many even fall asleep due to the calming effects. The poppies also have a pain-relieving property that makes it quite popular among farmers and fieldworkers after a long day of backbreaking work.

>>4009856
Reluctantly, they accept the trade offer, and will soon return the favor by sending over some cinnabar. All they ask is that they give some samples first, just so they know just how powerful this is. Using it during work would not be ideal for us meluz, as accidents would be prone to occur if we're too "relaxed", as you called it. You know, what with the numerous holes in the ground. If one isn't watching where they're going, they're likely to fall in under the effects of Anything that's overly relaxing.

>>4009790
The dwarves would agree to release the prisoners if the Tarn wish to agree to the deal made prior wherein the mountains are given and optionally the source of iron sent to the Tarn.
They would also accept a hefty sum of gold or some other item similarly useful for trade.

>>4009878
The Tarns understand the Meluzina's hesitancy, and are happy to swap samples. A variety of dilutions and samples of opiate-tea are set out for the Meluzina to test at their leisure. In turn, the Tarns ask for some samples of cinnabar for their own research.

>>4009906
Given that this negotiation is with Tarnish explorers, there's little they can do to affect talks between the two countries. However, they promise to try their best to persuade their leaders to accept the deal. If the dwarves do not wish for salt, the Tarns can offer fine jewelry, or drugs called opiates which produce a soothing effect. Both of which could surely be sold off for a nice sum of gold.

>>4009920
A dwarven diplomat would be sent to inform the government of Tarn about the situation and proposed deal.

>>4009907
They happily fork over some cinnabar samples, then head back, preparing to send the rest over soon.
The opium samples are handled carefully, and taken to the capital. We plan on studying these closely before accepting any big quantities.

>>4009941
The Tarnish government politely informs the dwarves that their choice to hold innocents hostage will have no effect on other matters of negotiation. The Council has spoken on the question of the land swap and their decision is final.

The Council is concerned for the safety of its citizens, however, and is willing to pay the ransom in gold out of the state treasury.

>>4010038
Sadly it would appear the Tarn do not possess the gold required for the deal, but the dwarves try to ask one more time to reconsider the generous offer that the Tarn relinquish the two northern mountains to the dwarves, and in exchange, a majority of the iron is mined and smelted to be sent to the Tarn indefinitely. Of course the prisoners are all freed too, if it was not clear.

>>4010063
Again, the Tarns are unwilling to cede the land. However, some sort of shared use agreement could be drawn up perhaps, where the dwarves and the Tarns use the land in equal measure?

Meanwhile, an emergency posse is rounded up to defend the north. The majority of the drawn up soldiers are dispatched from Xycthos, though additional forces are conscripted from Jaakals military academy. They are aligned all along the border between Tarnia and the Ashbeards, just in case the dwarves attempt something. The forces keep a low profile for now, remaining just beyond the treeline and keeping campfires to a minimum.

>>4010078
The dwarves have no interest in sharing the land, and the meeting is ended as there doesn't appear to be a possible deal to be made that both sides would agree on.

With nothing else that can be done, the prisoners are to be disposed of for crimes against the dwarven realm.
Mountainlord Hrutnar Glotthingr of Ulzunteg'dun being the lord responsible for the prisoners entering nearest his domain, he decides the best course of action is to make an example of the interlopers so that in the future they shall hopefully not repeat the same mistakes.
Climbing to a high point of Ulzunteg'dun, most of the prisoners are bound in iron chains and thrown down, using a portion of the mountain so that the Tarn may likely witness the action and recover their remains.
The last few not executed in this manner are Sentenced to Hammering and their bodies sent down the river flowing nearest to the Visage of Therkuunaz where they would also be at least recovered by the Tarn.

>>4010098
The Tarns are disgusted by this show of barbarism.

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SCENE TWO

>>4006395
>Llychlyn
The fire is quickly contained, after ripping up field and meadow. There is apprehension as the fire reaches the edge of the break, which fades as it proves effective. The fire eats through its fuel in a day, smouldering for almost a full week afterwards. Southern winds blow the ash over the plains of Allfshys, dusk is a dull blue-grey for as long as the embers smoke.
Having been driven south by the heat, more hands join the effort to destroy the Ruins Under the Ice. Even after such a long time, the crews have only removed two yards or so of the thing. There is talk that the place should be sealed up, or flooded, or something of the like, chipping away at this thing is seeming futile. But until the orders were changed, they would continue to mine. With this much removed however, one could see that the dark stone had cleaved through the natural rock, leaving a seam of coal untouched. More workers had complained of awful dreams, of fire & destruction, and that they heard the grinding even when others couldn't. Along with these, those working inside the corridor began to hear other noises, hissing, clicking, whirring. "As if a boiling pot were rattling on a trivet" one worker says.

>>4006524
>FHR
Those in the nearby fort were the first to notice the blaze, sending for volunteers to Senday at once. Anything that could carry water was brought, buckets, pans, even chamber pots, to throw water onto the fire. For the most part it was the under-brush which spread the flames, but as it raged trees too were caught aflame. Once the brush was doused, and trees around those burning felled, only the standing burning trees were left. Given their size, it was deemed wise to monitor them, but leave them to smoulder. Ash fell on Senday for three days afterwards.

>>4006534
>Gyldenthrong
The earthworks contain the blaze entirely, allowing the fire to burn right to it's edges, leaving an odd pentagonal scar upon the land. Dwarven efforts to curtail further fires in their extensive territory prove successful, as any minor event is quickly extinguished. Such training should remain with the Dwarves for many years to come.

>>4006614
>Soghoia
It is not the heat so much which worries the Frogs, it is the dryness. The northern swamp begins to dry up! the once wet soil hardening like their own concrete. Only those trees already embedded deep into the earth remain standing, though for how long remains unknown.
Perhaps inspired by the heat, and the fires in Meluz territory seen from the lookouts, work begins on a flame-spitting weapon. Testing begins in the dried out swamp, the hard land proving useful for footing. Initial tests are promising, able to spray a liquid-like flame a good 12 feet from the wielder. Caution must be taken, as changing winds could prove fatal. Further cautions include correctly mounting each piece, not adjusting the pieces once they are attached, and most importantly ceasing operation if the pilot is extinguished.

>Soghoia cont.
This last lesson is learnt the hard way, as a rookie attempts to relight his wick, whilst a nozzle is open, causing fire to shoot backwards through his equipment. Thankfully for those around him he does not explode, instead the release on his mostly empty fuel tank blows open, sending flames out of the back. The force is so strong that he goes flying out of the swamp entirely, over the wall, and into Meluz lands. Unfortunately here the worst happens, as his much more full tank experiences the shock of his landing, it detonates, shooting burnt frog and burning fuel all over. Flames spread from the impact site almost immediately, threatening Thési. (>>4009558)

>>4006731
>Ashbeards
Strong sea winds blew the fire inland, ever closer to the working Dwarves. Miners redoubled their efforts, and at last the ditch was dug. The flames reached the trench, struggling to cross the churned earth without prevailing. In short time the fire had died, leaving behind smouldering fields. The air was thick with smoke and ash, having burnt for so long. It hung around the foot of the mountain, over Tula'krel, darkening the sky.
Inspired by their Golden brethren and their fine porcine mounts, the hardiest of the workgoats were bred. In time a small cavalry of them are born and raised to take the weight of an armoured Dwarf. Their lifespan will prove to be almost half of that of their cousins in the fields and mines.

>>4008002
>Cravers
[B] In the heat, the Heart of Neverborn works hard, forcing vital fluid throughout the entire Cravic system. In doing this, it kickstarts all of the half-projects on the island. The grisly boardwalk sprouts new fleshy supports, and hardening into a strong and stable underlying structure, ready for new flesh to grow. The oasis wall bursts forth, surrounding the wet sands. It is, some say, a minor miracle.
Thick sucking veins spread from the bonespears of the boardwalk, gulping seawater into Neverborn. Bacteria already flowing within the flesh begin a process of biodesalination, dumping the withdrawn salt into empty pockets or sacs inside the mass of the city. Cravic-Ant eggs, an amalgamation of Sable and Craver essence, are laid in the warm wet sands of the Charnel Oasis. Soon the pupae develop, and are born, almost twice as fast as the Sable. This however carried over, and they will live for half as long.

>>4008032
>Harmony
The Chorus moves south, into Sable-held sands, although the desert is Sable almost entirely on paper-alone. No Ants actually live there, few even venturing into the scorching lands. Of course, the slime dissolve any living thing they happen to find, small lizards & scorpions for the most part, not even enough to call a snack. The Crocodilian tribe provided the slime a tolerance to the heat, allowing they continued viscosity in the terrible sun. River water is constantly cycled in the Quire to maintain fluidity, lest they become nothing more than an dried out sticky mess.

>>4008254
>B'yogi
Learning quickly that a fire requires fuel, the B'oo begin to tear up anything the fire may consume, down to the bare earth. In some places this too was removed, leaving small trenches around the area. The fire itself is watched and studied by a great number of the B'yogi, seeing in it all manner of things; From the purely scientific, to the beauty, to the spiritual. Perhaps in this they may learn something new, of the world, and perhaps themselves.

>>4008702
>Vossiks
The Sennai reservoir & dam effectively half the flow of the river, which the Humans call the Sendack. Their fires had been, for the most part, put out by the time construction completes, given the Vossiks laissez-faire attitude. A huge swathe of the sparsely wooded Onkankan Hills was allowed to burn unabated. It is when the flames encroach upon the kosts of Gilden Voss, those and their gold mines, that these actions are taken. Thankfully the fire finds only a little more fuel as it continues along the slopes, and never crests into FHR woods, or Nomachian plains.
The peace with the Othinians was not to last. Some, more savvy, began their migration to the crowded city of Tyr, knowing they would not be taken in by the FHR. Others would try their luck with the Hacmos (KULPY!), a few even travelling further south onto Gylden shores (>>4006534). This is not enough for the Vossaya, they would formulate a plan of action for the total removal of the Othinian stain on the Republic. The question now is, expulsion or execution? (reply as a diplo post)

>>4009048
>Tidal
The blaze is left to engulf the abandoned plots, the ash will make good fertiliser. Elsewhere it is beaten out, lest is spread to those farms still worked. It is less than a days work, but it is nonetheless exhausting. When the smoke clears, only two extant farms are damaged, though one rather badly.
The Amplect, the ruthless clan they are, begin this trade of theirs, buying up all they can from the likes of Soghoia & the Gylden, as well as their own sea-crops, and peddle it at extreme mark ups to the Tarn, the Hacmos, the B'yogi & the Meluz. (>>4006534, >>4006614, >>4009137, >>4008254, >>4009558)

>>4009137
>Tarn
Basic Nomachian is picked up, enough to communicate. A Xycthon-Tarnic dictionary is given, in hopes it may be learnt, eventually. Two reservoirs straddle the falls of the Jakaal river, providing water to the surrounding parched peoples. The bushfire in the plain is guided and controlled, away from much of value. It mercifully burns its course out before reaching the mines or more fruitful of the remaining farms. The tusked beasts, left for generations to roam Tarnia un-harassed, are harnessed for the effort. Most put up a violent fight, but the young, separated from their mothers, perform admirably.

>>4009411
>Sable
The Aya-fi'eds grow fat and immobile, producing great quantities of Honeydew for the Sable. Titanoms too store what they can in their grotesquely distended social stomachs. Those under-performing broodmoothers, who so arrogantly believe themselves worthy of the highest honours! Still, it is a shame what must be done, at least in this way they may actually provide for the hive. The experiments begin, the desperate striations of the failures torment the Matriarch. She reminds herself, in her lucid states, that it is for the Greater Good. A breakthrough is sure to come soon. It must.

>>4009558
>Meluzina
With the fear of Castor in them, Meluz rush to halt the advance of the encroaching flames, tearing plant-life out by hand in some places. As much as can be, is saved, and the fire allowed to burn itself out. Many weep at the sight of it, so terrible is the conflagration. At last, it flames die down, and only smoking embers remain.
Venturing east, into the Mare's Tail sands, the Meluz instantly spy the columns of a ruin. As they slither closer, they find it has long ago been looted and cleared, with rubble laying in piles outside the structure. The air has the faintest smell of ozone. Debris has been removed from inside the structure, all that remains are splinters of what was once a wooden door into the sanctuary. A noticeable colouration on the far wall shows something massive and metal once stood against it. Again it is completely cleared of rubble and valuables. The north sands, while new, hold little of interest, save a few brown shrubby plants, and the occasional darting lizard.
(remember to tag people you're diplo-ing)

>>4009650
>Incarnationis
Stones are stacked upon stones, harvested from iron mine. The odd seam of ore leads to them being called the Iron Walls. The Hatchery of the Flesh Mission eagerly awaits the arrival of more flesh from the north, "talks" begin with the Cravers to transport dead or otherwise unwanted flesh here. The Kahro will make good use of it! (this was discussed in pms between willie & I, so go ahead and make it official diplo)
(remember to tag people you're diplo-ing & you need to reply to the Ashbeards marching north to attack)

DIPLO
>>4006534 + >>4006725
The Ashbeard party joins the Redcap, who greedily eye the additional food and ale. The ingots and the like are inspected, but cast aside. After much merry-making, the Mountain Dwarves attempt a charade to get the tribe to venture north, most effectively with the offer of more to eat and drink. The Tallaght are extremely food-motivated. It is in the journey from their clearing to the Outpost that the crew encounter Gnavkop's team heading to meet them. Pleasantries are briefly exchanged between the Dwarves, when it is seen that the Redcaps are eyeing the Golden-beards hungrily. Is this the food they were promised? A live meal is a great delight!

END OF SCENE TWO.

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Plus a map of controlled land

>>4010184
Appalled by the brutality of the dwarves, the Tarns take measures to prevent further aggression and protect their lands and people. The first step is the declaration of a full embargo on the Ashbeard nation. No trader shall make any trade with a Ashbeard dwarf, nor shall any civilian step within their borders.
Furthermore, a declaration of condemnation is composed and issued to the surrounding nations(>>4010063, >>4009962, >>4009049, >>4006614, >>4006534), chastising the northern dwarves for executing Tarnish citizens so inhumanely for such a minor crime. The document also explains the embargo and travel ban imposed by the Tarns as a result and advises each of the above nations to consider limiting civilian travel into northern dwarf lands. After all, who knows who could be the next victim of the Ashbeard’s capricious nature?

Action 1: Further Exploration
Despite the tragedy that has befallen their fellow explorers, the brave sojourners must continue on. Leaving a boat and a crew behind to continue trade talks with the Nomach Empire, the explorers continue their exploration West, now aided by whatever rumors they picked up from their time in port.

Action 2: Boats of the Tarnlands
Over the past several tyrns, Tarnish ships have exploded in size and diversity. There are the broad, squat river barges that travel the rivers and canals of Tarnia, delivering mundane goods back and forth along the rivers. There are the sleek, many-sailed trade boats which sail up and down the coasts, carrying cargo and messages between the three nations which share the Tarnic Bay. Now, a third type of ship begins to make its appearance. Neither fully at home in the land or water, these hulks are nevertheless able to traverse both. At sea, they erect masts and set out sails to harness the wind. On land, they travel on massive wheels and are pulled by tamed tuskers, who stow inside the vessel during sea voyages. Finally, the Tarns can cheaply transport enormous quantities of goods and people just about anywhere on the continent. While perhaps not the most aesthetic of the Tarnish ships, the tusker-hauler just might be the most important.

[R][NM] Secretly, the search for a new Augursoul begins at Tempel Academy. Such a great prophet can only be a Tempelian, right?
>The next Augursoul should probably be native to a city other than Tempel. Beyond that, though, go wild.

>>4010180
The scorched land is a terrible sight indeed. Much of the wild life has been lost, but luckily we have put out the blaze. Though the blacken earth minds us of our home realm So bleak, dark, and...inviting.

1.The more homesick B'yogi have petition a grand temple for our gods to be built upon scarred area. We will grant this.
2. Now that the fires are put out, it's time to research to resume. The powers of "faith" and "belief" intrigue us. Our magic becomes more powerful while in the present of "belief". How can something so intangible hold so much sway in this realm? Is the non-existing more powerful than the existing? A question we must answer! We will research this to better apply to our magic.

>>4010180
1. If the Sable/Craver replications are viable, and the Matriarch is willing, the flesh monks begin the undertaking that is restoring the Sable's Matriarch whole.

2. With the drying climate, the Raut'let are settled in fresh lands to the south, in the pristine oasis east of the Grist'carn. {Expansion}

>Diplo

>Incarnationis
As a measure of good will against the oppressors, the Lord of Flesh offers to construct a Rut'ra nest on the border near the Butchery to defend against the dwarfs. The leader of Neverborn asks that the Kahro join them in expanding southeast.

>Sable
PMs and Matriarch restoration.

>>4010463
In response to this, the meluz shrug and cancel their trade for cinnabar. They also hold off a little longer on testing the opium, as there are more important matters at hand.

>>4010180

With the fire having burned out and the threat to the forests and Allfshys removed, there is some celebration, as the worst of this disaster seems to be over. In time, nature will do what it does best and regrow over the burned meadow and field, and Llychlyn for now would be content to let nature do its job, as there were other things to focus on. Of course, its important to note that, to an extent, even in Allfshys, a more marine diet has been taken as of late, partially due to the harsh weather affecting the animals of the wild and lowering their numbers, partially due to Llychlyn not wanting to exhaust its primary food source, and additionally partially because of the abundance of fish able to be caught. Naturally, due to this growing demand, the clans in Lunedannedd who were fishers would be all to happy to expand their business, and because of how lucrative it was at the moment, a decent amount would use the ships they had for their intended purpose.

In Allfshys, the construction of defenses would continue, at least a bit longer. Blodwyn wasn't close to what she wanted accomplished, but she recognized that considering the state of affairs more economical things needed to be done, especially a plan Eheubryd had that was important to the success of the destruction of the ruins under the ice and involved the construction of a very special, large building with only one task in mind. Of course, it was only in the planning stages, but she had discussed it with Clan Nist and to a lesser extent Clan Howell. The plan was simply a large building, partially under ground, which would be used by Clan Nist for the production of blessed steel, and currently, they would make that steel into pickaxes to get rid of that dreadful place, the belief being that the reason it was so slow in digging was that only a few people had picks. Had a large amount of people been equipped with pickaxes that could actually break that foul material, they'd have a much greater chance of slowly but surely destroying the place peace by peace and be able to destroy more than just two yards in the span of months. Once the place was set up, the steel could be produced in much larger quantities, all dedicated to destroying the unholy with holy.

Additionally, despite their desire to simply flood the place or seal it, Clan Tudor would state that doing such would likely only put the job of destroying the place onto their future grand children...Though, in time, those more...curios in Clan Tudor would try and find out what the fragments from that place could do, and what is most effective in damaging them. But that would be in the future...

>>4010964

>Action One. Continue the expansion of defenses in Allfshys, leaving a decent space for Eheubryd's plans. For now, what would be done to further the defenses would be enough.

>Action Two. Plan the construction of a great foundry, partially above ground, partially under it. Inside, Clan Nist and Clan Howell would be able to work together to produce larger quantities of Blessed steel, most in the shape of pickaxes. Though it would likely take time to plan and build, but the end result would be even better at least.

>>4010187
>1: extinguish the fires near Thesi
We decide that it's within our best interest to handle the fires that have begun to roar near the town of Thesi. In the same way we dealt with the flames near the capital, we deal with these.

>2: spirits uplifted through the sound of song
Us Meluz love our arts, though within the past few days, our minds have been broken by the hell that has been wracking our sweet plains. There's a need for happiness, a need for calm, but our usual tools for doing so just will not suffice. In order to lift the spirits of his people, a local music man creates a new sound device. He calls it a "flick-reed", due to the way in which it is played. The user blows into the flute, and uses their tongue as a sort of reed. They can change the position and vibrato of their tongues to change pitch in beautiful ways. This flute is made solely for the purpose of calming those who are of sorrow, and to bring them relaxation in their time of suffering. The music man prepares a few songs before bringing his creation out on stage for all to see. Not for his own success, but to make his viewers happy to be alive.

>>4010982
Kegs of fresh water from the western rivers are hauled by goat drawn wagons to the Meluzina as gifts, believing them scarce of water in these drying times.

>>4011086
The Meluz thank them vigorously, because just as the dwarves say, these are drying times. For more than a few reasons, the people of this nation need a pick-me-up in terms of morale. Everybody's been too busy weeping at the sight of burning fields to think about anything else.

>>4010187
Seeing the desire in their eyes and recalling nothing much ate in their travel, the dwarves try to scrounge up any foods carried upon their persons to give to the hungry savages before any undesirable events take place.
If they could not be calmed, the next plan is to incapacitate them with whatever blunt objects can be acquired, such as a tankard on a belt or simply fists.

The dwarves would also try to teach the emerald kin the basics of dwarvish so they may reach a better understanding of each other. A steady supply of food and drink are to be continuously sent from both the north and Zarjotun'torzdun when possible to strengthen the bond and hopefully civilize these lost dwarves.

Realizing further potential for the common shouting heard atop the mountains between goat herders primarily, those in charge of the defense of the realm put effort alongside shouting guilds to improve this form of communication.
Identical to the existing shouts but serving the purpose of warning the mountainhomes of attacks or other important information.
The dwarven mountains are difficult to traverse and range long distances which is a large problem for communicating information that would normally have to be passed down below and in the tunnels across the realm which do not possess the same visual advantage of the high peaks.
While an invading force would not be able to march through the mountains themselves in any meaningful number, at least not without losing many and taking much too long to arrive, there is still the danger of small forces that can intrude and cause a myriad of issues, or even forces that can be seen from the mountain tops but march on visible lowlands.
Residents and users of the mountains are taught new shouts so that they may pass on vital information that they may receive, and guards that patrol the mountains would as well.
This is potentially adapted for use between warriors in battle.
>Ventures of Voices

Zarjotun'torzdun expands its reach into the lush hills eagerly awaited upon by goats.
With no immediate nearby resources to exploit, this mountain will focus on livestock.
>Expansion

can gib rumor?

>>4010180
1. Begin work on reverse engineering the basic flamesprayers. We already have some experience from when we cleaned and maintained them.

2. Look for pitch or other compounds. We will need them to remake the incendiary compounds for when we eventually make the tanks for the ammunition.

Civilization: Soghoia
Flag: The Eternal Flame
Political Structure: Elected Leader, Elected Council and Constiution of Laws
Government: FWD, EFG
Religion: 80% Tadism (Polytheism), 20% Taolism (Monotheism)
Language: Soghoian (fluent), Xyctho-Tarnic (fluent), Tarnic (basic), Kalkahn (basic), Depauns (primitive)
Culture/Art: Victorian Architecture
Settlements:
• River Reed *Capital* (City Wall, City Gates, Watchtowers, Housing, Roads, Primary Schools, Trade Schools, Guilds, University, Tarn Embassy, Water Treatment Plant, Sewers and Plumbing) [Concrete Block, Yellow Glass & Bronze Construction]
• Quagspire (Gas Extraction Plant, Gas Refinery, Sewage Treatment Plant, Landfill) [Concrete Block, Yellow Glass & Bronze Construction]
Resources and Technology: map of sigod, marsh gas, methane, sulfur, concrete, gas extraction, gas refining, bronze making, glass making, charcoal, flamethrowers, fire bombs, pressurized tanks, pipes, wicks, valves, spigots, flat bottomed boats, bow, spear, sword, shield, pottery, marsh-poppy, fishing nets and swamp tubers.

Action 1 & 2: The frogfolk decide to scale up their flamethrower technology for use in siege weapons. The frogfolk mount enormous pressurized bronze tanks on large siege carts and create "siege dragons". These siege weapons quickly shoot massive amounts of the combined mixture of sulphur, methane and various liquids over large wicks that shoot long wide streams of blue flame over a large area. These siege weapons are dressed up in bronze plates which make the entire siege engine look like large bronze dragons breathing blue fire. Once again the frogfolk test these new weapons deep in the wilderness away from civilization.

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>>4010180

>Action 1: Storage and Irrigation

Gyldenfilt is a land rich in rivers, with six coursing through our lands and another three gliding along our borders. Thus, when their levels fall as one it is eminently noticeable. Although for many years the golden Dwarves have been content to let the flow of the rivers pass water along our irrigation channels to keep the crops growing, it seems a more active role is needed for us in these drier times. The levels of the rivers are measured to see how bad the need is along the banks of each, and reservoir lakes are dug close to those areas judged most at risk of desiccation to provide storage for times when the river flow might ebb. And where the river levels flow high, new channels will be cut to help spread the waters further over the bountiful soils, opening up new areas of the plains for greater agriculture and greater yield.


>Action 2: River Towns

New Towns grow up upon the banks of the nation's rivers, as if drawn by the waters in this time of frequent drought. In the North, upon the river Zuvkol, the town of Zuvraktuv rises to support the Copper-mines and farms of the northern bank. Whilst in the south-east, close to the head of the Kirvoga, the town of Kirurlag is set up by the mouth of the (currently dry) Canal and close to the fortifications between the rivers. It is hoped that once the rains return and the Canal fills enough for boats to pass along, the town will become a gateway to the southern lands; for now it simply serves as river-port, support and communications for the fortress garrisons.

>Diplomacy: Othnians?
The Strange Ganglies that come from the north and the west along the coastline surprise the Golden Dwarves, for these are not the beings they had seen across the river delta. They are given a low-key welcome, and communication is attempted in the Tarnic tongues as well as our own. Should they wish to try and learn the Gylden tongue then they might be made welcome for a while as we learn what we can from them; but otherwise these people will be guided to Dukkezop...

>>4010463
>Diplomacy: Othnians?/Tarn

As they are both Ganglies, these strangers will be introduced to the Tarn. The Tarn have recently lost people, perhaps these other Ganglies might be a replacement for those they are missing.

>>4011240
>Diplomacy: Ashbeards/Redbeards(Goblins)

Although mistrustful of the Redbeards due to the circumstances, Grugnir Gnavkop's group falls in with the Ashenbeards as they return with the Redbeards to the Ashen outpost. Whatever needs asking, first he will wait until the Redbeards have learned the Dwarf-tongue so he can ask it.

>Rumour?
There's always gossip in the Taverns...

>>4010463
DIPLO TARN
The new leader of the frogs, a large bullfrog man standing almost four feet tall, Morp Grumba, makes his way to the Tarn embassy in River Reed. He explains to the Tarn ambassador that Soghoia is becoming increasingly wary of the northern snakemen which are now rumored to patrol our sewers and eat the woman and children from their homes. He requests that frogs receive training at their military academy to form a formal military and in exchange the frogs will share their process for making bronze and they will demonstrate the proper handling of flamethrowers, with the caveat that the Tarn will not share this knowledge with any other nation.

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>>4010187
Lore:
It seems that the weather isn't the only thing bringing heat down on the ants. Caelum doing their usual patrol route of the region are somewhat surprised to see that the slimes of the North have trespassed into the lands of the Sable and immediately fly to the Crpyts to warn Kukusia, who dispatches a messenger to the Matriarch. Of all the times they could have done so, they had to show their gelatinous faces now. "It seems war was inevitable" she quietly jokes to herself, even laughing slightly at the situation. Her plans would have caused division among the ants no doubt, perhpas they still might, but at least the slimes have offered a way for the Matriarch to convince the swarm of the urgency and necessity of her plan for the ants maybe. Though she is aware that dissenters exist among her ranks, dealing with them the same way she dealt with the rebellious brood mothers is not what she wants. Even when she believed civil war would be a necessary step to purge any who would refuse the future, it brought her no joy just as the thought of anyone attacking the home of any ant doesn't. Though unable to lead the swarm in this critical moment, for now she sends word that the Swarm is to prepare for war yet again.

When the messenger returned to the Catacombs, the 3 Queens Kukusia, Zaroka and Ti'Clik were already assembled in the palace's war room discussing some strategies along with some of their generals. After Kukusia read the Matriarch's message, she went quiet for a while. Short tempered as always, Zaroka snaps at Kukusia to read the message aloud to the rest. It reads:
"My dearest daughters, I hope you are all well. The news that reached me is terrible indeed, made worse by the fact that I can not be with you at this bleak hour. As you all know, my health has been in decline for quite some time, and lately however it has felt more and more as if my final breath is drawing near. But do not despair for in my time away I have found not only a way to return to you better than ever before but new friends for the swarm! My daughters, remember what I have done for the swarm. You know that I would never abandon you, so I implore you, do not abandon each other and trust me! Evacuate the ants from the Labyrinth and set your focus on the North. I will travel to the Labyrinth and reside there for some time while I and our new friends complete the grand work we've started. Soon I shall join you again, but for now concentrate on defending our proud sovereignty. Show them the strength of the Swarm!"

The entire room breaks out into hushed tones, everyone looking around before Zaroka interrupts yet again "There you have it, now can we get back to planning?". Ti'Clika chimes in: "Are you serious? The Matriarch is gone at this time and you still ignore her suspicious behavior?". "Regardless, the slimes approach and we need to prepare. There will be time for questions and politics later", and with that Kukusia focuses the room yet again.

>>4012019
Actions:
>2x War: Harmony

The ants rush into the desert to establish a defensive line to slow the Slimes' advance. The assault and defense forces are created to gather information on the enemy and prepare a defense.

Small Assault Force:
An advance force of skirmishers are assembled to gather information on the new foe. Caelum are deployed to immediately fly towards the contested regions and scout out the enemy's forces. Once the scouting parties locate the slimes, they hover a safe distance away and divide into two squads. One would fly closer to the slime to study the creatures more closely while maintaining a safe height. The other monitors the enemy's movements and sends messengers out to the approaching skirmishing force to provide information on the enemy's movements and composition. The skirmish force would maneuver and engage weak spots in the enemy's advance by using hit-and-run tactics. The soldiers would attack the smallest concentration of slimes closest to them by positioning themselves just ahead of their target's advance and on its weakest side and divide into two teams aswell, front and ambushers. The frontline would wait for the enemy, while the ambushers buried themselves scattered in groups beneath the sand. Once the slimes passed over and engaged with the frontline, the ambushers would burst from the sand and harass the enemy from behind. The first few ants to attack the slimes mandible to ooze were quick warnings not to engage recklessly as the slimes swallowed and dissolved them right before their sisters. The soldiers attempt to distract the enemy forces by engaging them from different angles and retreating slightly to get the enemy to chase after them in an attempt to separate and slow their advance. The ants try and fight as safely as possible to limit their casualties, the Caelum work to keep the scattered groups organised in the attack.

Large Defense Force:
Once the Defence Force receives information on the enemy's distance from the scouts, they start to dig a trench a safe distance away from the approaching army, giving them enough time to prepare a defensive line. As they dig the ants pile the sand on their side in order to form a large dune across the line to offer high ground for their defense. They begin building small versions of bloomeries on platforms that multiple ants can carry as well. Multiple small warrens are dug out behind the defensive line to offer some shelter for the ant's in smouldering conditions, along with the honey dew being shipped to the frontlines stored within to give some relief. The boulders carved out while making these warrens are piled on top of the dune, Titanoms standing ever vigilant to throw them at any slime that tries to crawl up the dune.

>>4012024
>>4010761
>Diplo: Cravers

A scribe enters Nethazar's chamber, "The monks are calling for you majesty". When she arrives their chambers, the monks inform her of the situation. "Matriarch, the work is complete. Please come in and inspect for yourself." When she enters the chambers, she's lead to the latest test subject, which is the last of the dissenting broodmothers that was in captivity. None of the others made it, but hey paved the way to this, to her. The matriarch stands before the creature and gazes at it in awe. It's barely alive, slipping in and out of consciousness. For a split second it grasps hold of a sober moment and manages the strength to look up and into the face of the Matriarch. With effort and difficulty it manages to speak in a painful voice:

Subject: "What am I?..."

The Matriarch leans closer to the creature:

Nethazar: "Beautiful"

Horrified, the creature fades out of consciousness for the last time.

With their latest trials a success and the key to restoring the Matriarch in their hands, the Matriarch and the monks set out the Labyrinth. This will be the new home for the ants, a place of new beginnings. Here they encase her in a crystalis through which the monks work to reshape her safely inside. The work is tedious and hours bleed away but finally their work is done. Satisfied with their results, the monks leave the crystalis to take care of the rest, allowing the Matriarch to rest inside and let the work settle while monitoring her. The Cravers did not do this out of charity, however and their payment is due. As agreed, a group of leeches are sent to the Flesh Mission in return for the services of the Cravers. The inner circle and a folllowing of mad ants along with the monks now wait patiently at the Labyrinth for he rebirth of the Matriarch.


>>4008702
>Diplo: Vossiks
The ants dispatch a messenger to the Elezen. They warn them of the slimes that have encroached on the swarm's land and suggest that they assemble a defensive force as well. Cautioning the elves to favor on the side of prudence and prepare in the event the ants are unable to stop the slimes for if that's the case then the farms of the Elezen will be at risk as well, perhaps even Tyr. If they could spare the military aid if needed, it would be most welcomed.

>>4008032 see >>4012024 for war update

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>>4010184
Action 1:
The Paitoy hunger for more resources with which to enrich and employ their drakes, as the recent fires have left a few dragons without a proper farm, being the brotherly clan as they are they set out to search the islands, the sea and their limited mainland holdings for some kind of resource with which they can release onto the market, whether it be a metal deposit or some sort of strange and useful plant they truly wish to finally make a real name for themselves.
>search the southern region (pic related, highlighted in red) for some sort of unique resource or metal deposit

Action 2:
As we have gained wealth we still desire more. Thus we must complete our Book Factory, much wood, metal and other required goods that are bought and forged into what we need for it. Many great books - mostly books about the study of different languages and cultural tales of our clans - are brought here and some of the greatest multilinguals of the clan are brought in and hired permanently, under oath of course. The machines are outfitted with the tools necessary to copy in many different languages, from the strange and wispy B'oo to the straightforward dwarven runes and back to the scriblings of the frogs. Many works are translated, works of culture and of philosophy, stories of the great heros of long ago and of what was found in realms once known. This first wave shall shake the earth, spreading our culture throughout the known world and bringing honor and glory to Amplect.

The public will be told that the factory uses magic in order to produce books, namely a specific type of magic rumored to have been learned in the ruins in the north (though this is obviously not the case as known by the inner circle and those employed in the factory), only the depauns will be told this white lie, everybody else shall be told that it is a depaun trade secret. Books are copied page by page and many copies are made in one batch, usually 12 though more are sometimes produced if the market they are to be spread to is particularly large, larger peoples get more books produced for them.

>finish and produce the first wave of books. These books are the works translated from depaun into different languages, expertly copied by the skillful scribes of the clan, a new object to be ordered will be added to the list of items purchasable in advance, this is known as the book request, which requires a payment up front and a copy of the desired text, this copy is taken back to the factory and copied either as many times as requested (specific numbers require a larger payment) or around a dozen times, and a copy is kept in the library of the factory so that it can be saved for later use.

>>4011376 (diplo - frogs)
An envoy from the Depuans, the first official depaun representative in quite some time arrives in what was once Green River. (now called River Reed) He carries with him document which details a trading deal which would allow for Depauns to advertise and take their great levels of goods into the major city, the document also details incoming and outgoing tax rates on goods traded by the Depuans by their services. They promise that their trade will greatly diversify the incoming and outgoing trade within and without of their nation which will boost the economy and enrich the lives of the frogs.

>>4011749
The Xycthan diplomats may be sticklers for bureaucracy, but even they know a good deal when they see one. And this sort of deal? It’s the kind of opportunity that you pull all the strings you can to keep. A few hasty negotiations with Roodkhane later, the Xycthans are able to secure dedicated instructors and intensive training for the Soghoians. The frog-men are trained in phalanx tactics, shield charges, and spear formations. Working with the flamethrower instructors sent by the frog-men, the Tarns are able to incorporate the unique units into the standard phalanx, allowing them to be shielded from enemy archers and fighters while maintaining their capability during offensive maneuvers. Soon, expert frogman phalanxes are marching proudly back to their homeland, ready for action.

>>4012327
The frogfolk greet the diplomats with a warm welcome, providing gifts and showing them around the city. The frogfolk accept the terms of the agreement; however, the frogfolk refuse to trade sulfur, methane gas, swamp gas or their end products (fire bombs, flamethrowers, siege dragons, etc.) These products are prohibited from export out of the nation except in unique and specific circumstances.

The frogfolk do not have a proper port, but may build one in the future to help facilitate trade.

>>4011376
>Diplo: frogs
A meluz representative is angry with the frogs. Kirill Lasko, of the Racers. He used to have sympathy with the frogs, and held the same fear of Rattlers, but now it's personal. This wall business has grown tiresome. His people need water, and now there's land burning near Thesi. The flames rise up out of the swamplands, hinting that the frogs are to blame for this blunder.
He asks of two things.
1. Reparations for the burnt land. He goes on and on about how the grass here has been nourished by the soil for ages, touched only by the creatures that roam these wild lands. To burn that land to ash is a cause for great alarm. Now we are forced to replant because of something the frogs did.
2. The ability to harvest water from the area beyond the wall. Our people thirst in these drying times. The dwarves giving us the gift of water was out of pity. We wish to personally obtain water for ourselves, rather than relying on someone else, as kind as they are.

Kirill, out of curiosity, asks how this great blaze was started. Personally, he wants to know, so his people don't try the same thing in the rising tensions between themselves and the horrifying monsters in the north.

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>>4013397
The frog diplomat that meets with the snake pulls out a map and tells the snakes that they can claim the territory west of the wall. They can then divert and dam water from the Sleepy River to make a lake. He states that the fire was not intentional and no harm or aggression was planned against the snakes.

>>4013418
Kirill doesn't give a shit if it's intentional. The boy who urinates on the statue and says he did not know the action was wrong is not exempt him from cleaning the mess he made.
The Racer representative demands reparations, once more.
Again, he asks what caused that fire.

>>4013441
>Is
Does*

>>4013441
What reparations are you asking for?

The fire was caused by a tank explosion. He points to the tall brazier on the wall. Those are lit by marsh gas which has to be carried in tanks through our swamplands to the wall.

>>4013456
Gas? Gas can burn? Kirill did not know this, but he knows it now.
As for reparations, Kirill asks that the frogs grant the meluz some of their land that lies behind this very wall. Enough land to replace that which the frogs destroyed. We do not trust them in replanting efforts. They have done plenty of damage as it is.

>>4013485
The frogs will never give up land behind the wall. The snakes will have to ask for something else if they are serious about reparations and they are not just looking for an excuse to invade Soghoia.

>>4013172
The Depauns agree to the restrictions set out by the frogs. A landing area is discovered and an area which can be used for setting up a temporary market is established.

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>>4011376
as discussed change actions to:
Action 1 & 2: The frogfolk claim the swamp tiles around them.

>>4013493
by the way do you have a list of what you currently trade? (my new imports)

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Rolled 1 (1d2)

Posted on behalf of the Meluz

1. Meluz working within Ásteri saw what is described in the attached image
2. They merely found the aftermath, i.e. bits of burnt dead frog & copper sheeting

>>4010180
Registry of official trade partners:
>Tarn
>Frogs
>Lowland Dwarves
>Pokos Elves
>B'oo
>Narsics(?)

>>4013489
Invasion? Kirill is insulted by this notion. Invasion was never on his to-do list. He States that at this moment, his people have no desire to invade the nation of frogs. There are many alternative food sources, to which the Rattlers and the Garters are already attracted, and those alternatives will suffice.
If you will not fork over the territory, then Kirill warns you to prepare for unforseen consequences.

>>4013595
What kind of unforeseen consequences?

>>4013629
Kirill gives you a weird look, not saying anything. He thinks you don't know the meaning of the word "unforseen".
He turns away and leaves.

1. Legal Reforms
The standards utilized by the Inquisition become widespread as a legal basis in the Republic. The use of meticulous questioning, record-keeping, and the restrictions of witnesses and testimony reduce the number of false accusations of both heresy and reduce the number of criminal punishments upon innocents.

2. Water-powered Mills
The use of water-power in the river-rich Republic also becomes widespread. Forges and manufactories along the river can make use of the water to power hammers to forge vast numbers of iron ingots, cut lumber, and mill grains.

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SCENE THREE

>>4010463
Tarn
[R] The Hacmos, though stand-offish, give the Tarn a quick lay-of-the-land; To the north-east are the most illustrious Mountain Elves, the Elezen of the Vossik Republic. To the north, a race of men, little is known of them. And to the west, the most strange of the lot, the curious shadow beings called B'oo.
[NM] A new Augursoul is sought within the schools of divination and the like in Tempel. Resurrecting ancient practices, the selected candidates are brought for further testing. The candidates are whittled down to three: First, a rowdy boy of Jakaalian origin, who though the most gifted, is not truly driven. Second, an older Xycthon lad who is talented in both augury and the natural sciences. And third, a girl-child of Tempelian nobility, who shows little promise but who is selected to save face. (I will let the dice decide) Their final trial is begun, they merely must select an object which belonged to the previous Augursoul: a bone-comb, an embroidered cap, or a glass bowl.
Being already afloat, the Tarn thank the Dark Elves, and sail west to the land of the B'yogi. They do not know what to expect. (>>4010520 Tarnic traders are sailing along your southern coast, please tell them what they find)
These Tusker-Hauler vessels are an instant success in those small circles which conduct business in the far-west. Given this, a new high-arched stone bridge is built in place of the much lower wooden one erected on the road to Roodkhaane. This allows these new ships to sail along the Augur River, which the Gylden call the Cewrkol, disembarking at the Gylden markettown of Vogazdun, and hauling the amphibious boats to the River Gylder. This coincidentally allows the Tarn to conduct business in the Giant-occupied town of Cewri'Jotregk, where foreign Tarnic foodstuffs are especially loved. (>>4011648)

>>4010520
>B'yogi
Dark, and inviting, the Temple of the Three casts a shadow over the scorched plains. It's halls lined with heavy black draperies which absorb the light. It is a place of comfort in this troubling world. Comfort, at last, a pleasant emotion. Within the calming presence of the Temple, the B'oo study what they can of the intangible which effects the physical. Their research shows that a sceptic of the arcane, even when shown it, can never perform magics. Contrariwise, a mystic in his sacred turquoise garb, may sometimes cast spells he is unaware of! How strange this realm is!

>>4010761
>Cravers
The monks continue their work, red & grey flesh is stitched beneath black chitin, a ghastly simulacrum of a monarch. The Flying Maw, the Raut'let is sent south to the oasis. They are quick to make a new nest.

>>4010967
>Llychlyn
With the foundation stones laid, both the outer inner wooden walls and the Blessèd Forge begin construction. The Forge construction begins so that it is continuously operational, even as it grows. Another armful of Blessed-Steel picks are able to be produced, and sent to the effort in the south.

>>4010982
>Meluzina
The small fire is quickly suppressed, though small pieces of burnt green skin and copper metal are found strewn across the plain. With the terrible happenings, it is a blessèd relief when the flick-reed is created. It's sweet music calms the heart, and soothes the soul. So sweet is it, that it must be a gift from Castor Himself.

>>4011240
>Ashbeards
[R] A trader, often does business with the Gylden, he says that the Golden Dwarves recently found some people wanderin' around their beaches, and that they gave them to those trespassers, the Tarn. They were odd lookin', thin faces like, wearin' dresses he's heard, even the men!
Gruff shouting can be heard day & night, dawn & dusk. Scarce an hour goes by that one is not disturbed from one's thoughts by the yell of "Ae'zalet jidei jot joti luuke! Uh! Zadi thaae." or some other such nonsense
The hills down south offer surprisingly little in grazing, save some rather hardy moss. Even with the sun it's colder than well-digger's arse.

>>4011348
>FHR
Under strict supervision by Clan Varke, the most complete samples of the ancient weapons are secretly transported to the Engineering District. There they are to be studied, their designs replicated, and manufacture of the currently feasible pieces begun. The matter is of utmost secrecy, with only even three Clan Sah's knowing of the project. Very little is yet manufacturable, only the harnesses and handles, but the tanks, nozzles, valves, tubing, and of course the fuel, are not. It is noted that the metal of the tanks is remarkably thin, with hammer marks, suggesting it has been pressed or rolled flat.
A second round of prospecting begins, this time in the east. In short time, two fascinating resources are found. Just east of Senday, a test pit revealed a deep vein of lignite coal, and south of the wayrest fort, (CHOICE! Rubies, Garnets, or Carnelians).
It is with a little embarrassment that a cadre of students from the Academy of Agricultural Sciences arrives at the Daiimad building, several days late. They bring with them a large sheaf of papers, full of their findings, which will most certainly only be skimmed through. No matter. They are here to announce their findings, specifically those on the practices of crop rotation, livestock incorporation, and intercropping. Their studies and year-long trials have shown that in ideal circumstances these three practices alone can double yields. They are quick to note however, that outside of their controlled environs, yields would most likely see an increase of 55% at most.

>>4011376
>Soghoia
Two of the bronze beasts are created, both identical down to the last rivet. The things tap the last remaining tin the Soghoians had scrounged, further creations of bronze would require import, or by some miracle, tin to be found within the land. Testing is limited to making sure the tanks, the pipes, and the nozzles all function correctly. With trepidation, the Siege Dragons take their first breaths.

>Soghoia cont.
Huge gouts of fire sputter across the concrete-hard mud of the north, incinerating the land. Afterwards the machines are inspected, and show terrible signs, with the mouths being horribly misshapen by the immense heat and an awful smell hangs around them.
[D] The extraction pumps produce a strange thumping sound and then fall silent. There is momentary confusion, and then panic, as both pumps fall into the dry marsh. Around them forms a crater, leaving copper piping hanging in the air. Whatever little gas remained escapes in a yellow haze around the plant, before dispersing into the atmosphere. In the ensuing chaos, a canister catches, sending itself flying into the trees and exploding on impact. Fire erupts in the south!
(Having read through the chat & diplo, I feel your actions were meta-gaming. I will be taking your initial actions, and not the expansions.)

>>4011648
>Gylden
[R] It washed up on shore, the story goes, the prow half of a wrecked wooden boat. It's not Gylden or Tarnic construction, and definitely not Depaun or Soghoian. From the little the Gylden have seen, it's not Nomachian either. The things built of a purpley wood, unlike anything they've cut down. Curious.
Three round lakes are dug, on the rivers most affected by this terrible drought. "The three wet buboes", one official calls them. And though the Gylder also runs low, digging a reservoir into it would be near-sacrilege.
The two towns, or rather, villages, become incorporated. They will soon become towns proper, given the immigration under way.

>>4012024
>Sable
(gonna have to give >>4008032 a chance to post a reply. If nothing by Monday, there'll be a war post from me)

>>4012320
>Tidal
Along with the precious & limited ammolite in the mainland woods, the islands hold two different grey metals. The Pharos island a small amount of iron, and the Windy Island a large quantity of lead. This may help explain the poor yields in the south of the isle. Scouring the sea floor brings up little, however, save an off-white stone, comprised of shell (Coquina).
The machines click and groan, the ink sloshes, the paper is stained. All in all two gross of books are printed, bound in leather, and each hand stamped. It is the first run, and it does not go entirely smoothly. Half of the B'oo translations of "The Teachings of Great Obadinia" state that "...[F]ish of foreign seas are a most gracious -incense- to Great Obadinia...", instead of the actual word "offering"; A minor slip for sure, though we hope the shadow ones don't go about burning fish. Other small mistakes are peppered throughout, an upside down character, a half-print, etc.. But given the speed at which they may be produced, it is a negligible price.

>>4014872
>Vossiks
With the Othinian stain removed from the Republic proper, those practices used by the Inquisition see introduction to standard operation. Along with this, a slew of reforms are passed by the Vossaya, ranging from modernisation of outdated weights & measures laws, to formalising of court opinions on the manner of how to conduct a fair trial.
The water wheels are quickly adopted, from hammering iron at the "Drop Forge" north of Dravana, so called for its use of the steep fall of the river there, to local wool mills. Each is the pride of the village or mill that owns it.
Men of fighting age from throughout the kosts are called to train, in the spear, the lance, the bow, anything they can. These are troubled times, and none should be found wanting.

>Narsics
And so it goes that the ice claims another civilisation, and with the disappearance of the Narsics, their black stele crumbles.

DIPLO
>>4011240 + >>4011648
The Redcaps are disappointed that they are not to be allowed to eat these fat morsels. But the gestured promise of more and better meals to come keep them going. Though at least sentient, they do not seem to pick up on any Dwarven at all, opting for their own garbled & shrieking tongue. When they are at last at their destination, and after being so well fed they are almost round, Gnavkop gestures his question. The bloated creatures take a moment to comprehend what is being said, before cackling, showing off their pointed teeth, and rubbing their full stomachs.

>>4011648 + >>4010463
They are a group of seven Othinians, five men and two women. They speak between them three languages, Othinian, Elezen & FHR Standard Human. They are in Voss-Othinian garb, both sexes are wearing loose-fitting trousers, a tunic which wraps around the torso, tied with a wide belt, and over it a voluminous long-sleeved coat. All in dull grey-beige colours, save the belt, which is a rust orange. They carry with them nothing, save two tall woven baskets between them, holding bread and some dried foods which aren't readily identifiable. Worry lines their faces.

(War posting will be some time on Sunday)

END OF SCENE THREE.

>>4015028

As work on the walls died down, all work in Allfshys was dedicated to the construction of the forge. While it was unfortunate that for the most part the forge would be producing naught but picks of the finest steel, blessed by the grace of Fanw and her priests and priestesses, at the very least these picks would strike true and contribute a good deal to the destruction of that horrid place in the south, and as the forge was built more and more, more potential work would be able to be done at chipping away at the ruins under the ice. After all, if hundreds upon hundreds of these holy pickaxes were made and given to strong miners, surely two yards of that dreaded place would be chipped away every day rather than every month at least, quite likely more. Still, while the forge is the most important thing Llychlyn worked on at the moment for its future, there would be other things taking the nations attention.

The clan of Llewelyn, renowned explorers and the founders of the city of Lunedannedd, would by now be getting a reputation as great shipwrights as well, as their small but efficient fishing ships have come to be symbols of status for the varying Teulu clans who could afford them. Naturally, due to the unease of the place to the south, they'd rather not go there on foot. Additionally, the cold weather down there makes foraging unlikely which would force them to rely on hunting, which while doable, is not the best as they'd rather not waste parts of the animals they kill, though admittedly this is more of a side thought compared to the cursed place of the south being the biggest obstacle to overcome. However, with the people from the north it has been proven there are lands to the north, and maybe to the east, west and south as well. Regardless, the adventurous spirit of Clan Lunedannedd would stay strong and they'd work on the construction of ships that could both be good for exploration and moderately fast trade, likely able to go up large rivers decently as well...

>Action One. Construction on the forge where Clan Nist will reside continues, it'll be quite a large forge by the end of this, and even before it is complete, it is likely the only source of all blessed steel.

>Action Two. Clan Howell, ever curios to explore construct a ship with two sails, one large square rig sail near the center where one could look out from, one Lateen sail in the front, a raised section of deck covering most of the rear as a counter weight to the sails. Under the deck, under the raised section is simply hammocks to sleep in and a door leading to a stairway leading to the bottom of the hull where cargo is stored. Lastly, the ship has a number of seats for oars along the top of the ship to assist in speed. The ship is made with both the ability to go long distances and transport of goods in mind. The first of these ships to launch after much work and design is named LCL Teithiwr, LCL standing for Llong Clan Llewelyn.

Action 1: The Tarns are astonished. They ask the Othinians to clarify more, but however they question, the description is the same. A race of tall humanoids with no animal features whatsoever: just like them! This is the first the Tarns have heard of a people the same as themselves, and finding them becomes of paramount concern. A clipper ship is dispatched back south to request more supplies and another remains to talk to the B’oo while the majority of the ships quickly sail north to discover their fraternal nation.

Action 2: Selective Breeding
As Tuskers become more and more embedded into Tarnish society, the Tarns begin to affect them as well. At first, it was inadvertent: tuskers that were naturally obedient or attractive were simply more likely to be selected and trained. But over time, the Tarns begin to intentionally breed different tuskers for different uses. There are pygmy elephants, suitable for towing small loads or even as household pets. Tuskers with thick sturdy horns and powerful legs are used by merchants to pull large cargo across the realm. And the largest and most fearsome of them all, the Oliph-haunts, are bred and trained for the express purpose of waging war.

>Diplo: Cewri
>>4015038
>>4011648
>Not a hundred percent sure who’s in charge of responding to this so I pinged both of you just to be sure.
A Tarnish diplomat dressed in more muted colors than usual requests an audience with a certain elderly Cewri. Once alone, the diplomat explains the situation with the windy stone and how only his murder will allow the soul trapped within to rest. He explains that the Tarns fully understand and accept if the giant does not wish to do this, but urges him to at least consider it, if only so that the soul within the stone can finally rest.

Rolled 1 (1d3)

>>4010520
>Diplo: Boo
The Tarns wave hello excitedly. They’re unsure of exactly what they’ve looking at, but every new civilization they’ve met so far has been quite nice. Surely, this one will prove no exception.
>I’m sorry, I have no idea what your civ looks like. This will become a proper Diplo though, I promise!

>>4015028
You don’t seem to have rolled, so I have above.

>>4015031
1. [NM] The moon elves have taken notice of the burst of energy surrounding the new technological district in New Andreth, and they have approached the Daiimad with their own.......unique talent. Lightning Magics. Many Clan-Sah wondered why they kept this information from the FHR for so long, and in response they are told that they really never asked. This drew some amusement from the Vay-Sah, Varke-Sah, and Dzen-Sah, who all now began formulating uses for this magic in their technologies, and in general use. Weapons perhaps? Weather control? The possibilities seemed endless at the moment.

2. Recalling deep knowledge of her personal archives, the Varke-Sah brings a book to the private meeting of the 3, a book about old machining methods. The Dzen and Vay-Sah questioned what she meant by "Machining", but she explained that it meant advanced ways of shaping metals, such as lathes, rollers, and other relatively simple to make pieces of equipment. The fuel for now would have to wait, for the manufacture of more advanced methods of metal shaping would be needed.

[Rumor]

>>4015304
Rumor as well, please. Forgot about it.

>>4006398
The ship's small camp was buzzing with activity by the time the Fanw people arrived with the members of the party that had gone to get them. They had been cooking food, broke out their alcohol rations, and were generally looking to be having a good time. The humans, half-elves and Awoo all welcome the Children with open arms, and explain the significance of this holiday to them, how their people broke free of the enslavement the old elves had them under.

>>4015028
Confusing, confusing, and more confusing this realm hexes us. No matter; we will discover its secrets!

1. Our militant B'yogi are getting anxious to fight though it seems they just want to kill something. To soothe them, we will morph grand beasts from shadows and give them a higher consciousness.
2. The acidic waters of the Bone Mother is a complex matter. It melts everything it touches except her and turquoise. It doesn't make sense and only that makes sense is this strange thing called magic. Then we have use our arcane to understand it and then master it...
>>4015420
(The Tarn explorers see a fortress seemly made of the blackest of night, but on closer inspection, it's made of dark clay. The inhabitants are shadowy beings wearing armor of strange design cover in turquoise gems and bones.)
The lord of the fort, D'sic, notices a foreign ship fill with H'ymois (B'yogi word for being not of B'yogi origin). They're a single ship and they haven't attack so they must friendly! He greets them with his entourage. They morph their bodies to look more similar to these new comers though not quite right. H'ymois are strange to have one form.

*in a gurgling voice he speaks in the Dark Ones' and Shiny Scales' tongue* "You speak, yes?"

1. Bureaucratic Reform and the New Citizen
The Republic had gone through multiple upheavals and had emerged at the end a changed beast. The Republic, in the wake of the Riots, found that it needed to reform it's decaying bureaucratic structures, and reorganize the very fabric of its society to match the new era. The Othinians that had converted had been welcomed, as all of the True Faith would be, and through rigorous Inquisition the crypto-faithful had been sent north to Tyr where they belonged. But what of those that remained? Sigord's Spine had changed. Where it was once sparsely populated, with empty stretches of rough terrain between far-flung kosts, there now stood many such towers within sight of one another. The mountains which had been so deadly for centuries had slowly been mollified by the work of champions and kost campaigns alike. Gryphons still stalked the peaks, and Snow Trolls could still be found in the alpine forests, but it was no longer the land of ever-present danger. Komai found it possible to settle in towns and cities where before it would have been difficult. Old Kosts which had stood alone for millennia now found themselves turned into towns. The old caste system of birth had to be discarded, as it no longer fit the needs of a Republic that no longer needed such restrictions. To solve both of these problems the Republic, empowered by its Maesai, changed the structure of the Republic. No more would there be Maesai, Getai, Mosai, and Komai. Now there would only be The Aai, and the Aan. To be Aai was to be a citizen, a member of the faithful, one that could be relied upon, and one entitled to new legal protections, and even a vote for who would represent their community in the Vossaya. Then there would be the Aan. These are the foreigners, the faithless, the vagabond and the traitor. Those not worthy of trust, or legal protection. To become Aai was no simple task. It could be expensive to earn your bronze disk. It could take years of service to the state. It could also be granted by any administrator of a sufficient rank. You would, of course, have to convert. The methods of earning the new status were different, but once you had earned it it extended to your immediate family and was guaranteed for three generations.

2. Unification
The Hacmos were true kin of the Elezen. Though they called the Lightbringer by a different name, and rejected their ancestor spirits, they were still Elves. They simply needed to be corrected of their erroneous ways. The first overtures for a unification between Pokos and Renthum came through intermediaries. For centuries the highland Kosts had intermarried with their Hacmos kin, and noble lines connected the powerful of both nations. Rather than see the stresses of the world tear the union asunder, they sought to make it closer through a unification of the Faith and the Blood both.

To appease Therkuunaz, the dwarves of Zarjotun'torzdun offer items crafted by the inhabitants and livestock that they believe would please him. A majority of the population being devout members and followers of the Torzgratt'grutt that recites prophecies regarding the holy volcano they reside in, dedicated to a more vigorous worship and sacrifice to Therkuunaz than normal.
As supplies are few and far between, most all the dwarves can do is craft stone figurines with the stone dug from their homes.
Praying one day they a road may be created so that they may receive a steady supply of resources to both grow and create better crafts to offer Therkuunaz.

>>4015028

>Action 1: Second Survey

With all the resources discovered by the first survey now being pulled from the ground and worked by Dwarven industry, King Kvydrech decides that with the expanse of his realm with new towns it past time that another resource survey be commissioned, for there are so many regions the first simply did not make it to... let us see what manner of treasures we might hold that we simply have not yet noticed.


>Action 2: The Properties of Wood

From their arrival at the Gylder, the Golden Dwarves have known some wood is special. The Gylder Trees are essential for growing the apples that make it into the finest of our brews, the Ichor, and our legends say that it was with the wooden roots of a tree that Æblemor bound the cold and death of Snehvid and her magics. Many Golden Dwarves carry worked and blessed applewood - be it as a weapon or tool-haft, or even as a arm-band or torc - believing and expecting that this Guldfar-blessed wood will bind any magics or curses that might come their way and keep them safe.

And since moving into the southern forests and founding the town of Æblekag upon carving and woodcraft export, the Golden Dwarves have become more learned about wood itself, and the varieties thereof and where each may be obtained, and all the things each might be best of use for.

Therefore, it is to the Dwarves of Æblekag that the prow of Purple wood will be taken for evaluation, so that what sort of thing it is might be seen and discovered and evaluated. And perhaps we will find out where it came from, the thing it was part of... preparations are made just in case; if a breakthrough is made that needs them to go somewhere, they plan to leave immediately.

>>4015038 >>4011240
Diplomacy: Redcaps (And Ashbeards)

Though their language is unintelligible and they have not learned ours, the Gestures they make - the menacing display of their teeth, and the way they rub their bellies - leads Grugnir Gnavkop to only one conclusion, the one gnawing at the suspicion in his mind. These fiends are not Dwarves, but Dwarf-eaters! Angrily, he bellows out a curse and reaches for his weapon; though he holds it still. He denounces these Redbeards, denounces them for Dwarfmurder and Kinmurder. He bids them to answer for their crimes, by the gold and the heat.

Send fourth the Killer of my son, he gnashes his teeth at them. And hand him Axe and Shield. At the height of noon, Grugnir will meet him in the open, in view of all and beneath the light of gold. And there, Grugnir will settle this grudge against him, and make the Red-Bearded murderer shorter by a head.

>>4017433
>>4015038
The Ashen do not interfere with the affairs of the Gylden, so long as the entire tribe does not become affected in the process.

>>4015560

The people of the village would, seeing how they might as well, would join in the festivities, and even bring some of their own food which they would share with the humans. The majority is meat, though some vegetables and fruit are brought as well. The one named Rhisiart would be curios as to the details on what happened, however. Specifically what the elves in question did to them and why. Additionally, some time after, Meilir would ask how the humans and their cohorts were created.

Something also noteworthy during the celebrations is a particular carpenter drinking the alcohol available excessively, practically giving away a few crafts they brought in the hopes of more after they really should stop...Needless to say, a few Children of Fanw are...concerned to say the least, and at least one or two curios about the strange drinks the sea peoples had with them.

File: nationsmap.png (34 KB, 431x495)

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>>4015031

>1: diggy, diggy, hole
Kirill alerts his fellow representatives of the frogs' resistance. He's not pleased with how they're acting, refusing to give for what they've taken. Cynthia Collias, the Rattler representative, is elated to hear that the frogs are acting hostile. Though she hides her joy, as she's still plenty sorrowful over the loss of precious resources. She agrees that something needs to be done about them, though she's not sure what.

Hour of bickering amount to one plan. One plan is all they need, as serpents are good at just a few things. Squeezing, biting, and digging. And so, it is the digging we shall do. The frogs did not want us in their swamps, but never did they say anything about going underneath. Though the representatives and their insiders keep the reasoning for this covert operation a secret, calling it a "mining experiment", rather than an attempt at occupation and forced repentance.
Workers are only allowed to breach the surface if there's a severe cave-in, where there would be no other option. Severe meaning an excessive amount of boulders, and or rocks. Things we can't dig through without some serious time and effort.

The operation starts at the capital, where the entrance will be located. Workers are paid handsomely, and hired frequently. Not a chance those slippery amphibians will see this coming.
(red dot marks dig entrance)
(red line marks dig map)

>2: put on a show
New signs are posted all over the capital. "Jam Session and Art Exhibition Festival! Bring your talents! Bring your friends!" Just under that message is another one, in smaller print. "Located along the swamp border's watch-towers. Festival lasts as long as you want, baby!"

>>4011240
>Diplo: Ashenbeards
One of the representatives, Horace Pepi, of the garters, personally asks the dwarves if they have any musical instruments. We're hosting a big festival, and we want to bring talents from all over. Your people will be given temporary travel permits, in case they wish to attend themselves. No, there's no admission fee. Just bring your talents, and you'll fit right in. If the travel permits expire, and the dwarves wish to stay, then they must apply for permanent permits at the capital. If they fail to meet the requirements, then they will be escorted back home.

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THE SECOND KAHRO WAR
>>4011240, >>4009650, >>4010761, >>4012024, >>4010982
The Silver Dwarves begin their march across the plain, some on goat back, most on foot. Armed with axe and mace and war-pick. Clad in steel and Dwarven-bronze. They scream their bloody war songs as they come. The Kahro younglings are taken to Mausoleum for safety, all who can fight, do.
The mass of Dwarves crash into the throng of Kahro & the few Rut'ra that made it south, it is a bloody slaughter for both sides. Dwarves crush and slice through the flesh, the Kahro & Cravers rip and tear through the Oppressors. But finally the Dwarves are triumphant in this first battle. The wounded are left to writhe in pain and defeat, or else be squashed under Ashen heel. They continue north. The Worms of New Delta see what comes for them, and they cannot let it happen. They release their twisted Hounds into the horde, a handful of Dwarves are killed, before the dogs are put down.
The lay of the land forces the attackers through New Delta control, already they are being pelted with iron slag & overburden from their mines & forges. They continue onwards. Unlike the cities of other races, Kahro cities, if they can truly be called that, are a twisting labyrinth of conjoined nests. They spiral outwards then upwards, forming a strange tower. The height of it allows incredible vantage, any move the Dwarves make will be seen. Rings of their sticking Caro plant surround the city, and the hurled defences mean that attempts to cover them are swiftly killed. The Dwarves fall to option 2, retreat and then attack threw Meluz lands.
With the encumbering armour, it is a four day march, unfortunately allowing the Kahro to call upon their allies, the Cravers & the Sable. However the Cravers have few to spare, the Flesh Mission home only to a number of Kos'tr and the Nuck'lavee, who is secreted away for its own protection. The Sable muster a group of Caelum, with their acid-spitting Ants sent to New Delta as reinforcements. But the Dwarves do not attack New Delta, they squeeze their way up through the south east, joined by a full platoon of Bull-Meluz. The Dwarves bathe their weapons in Rattler poison. They work their way north, killing whatever stands against them, even envenoming the Flesh Mission. The Meluz slither through the forests, scoping them for ambushes, finding only a couple Kahro, which they dispatch. Somehow the flying units of the Ants, the Caelum now begin their assault, dropping rock onto the attackers, out of reach from any Dwarven weapon.
Knowing both sides have sent a message, and further advance being costly, the Dwarves step back. In all the Kahro suffered the greatest losses, followed closely by the Ashbeards, then the Cravers. The Meluz & Sable having lost none. Two swathes of Incarnationis territory are taken from them, and their butchery & hatchery burnt.
Thus ends the Second Kahro War.

END OF INTERLUDE.

>>4009650
>I’m sorry, I never saw this. Still, belated Diplo below
The Tarnish sailor hailed from the Port of Xycthos and was part of an exploration fleet sent to discover new peoples. Though he washed up comatose, his body miraculously survived without harm. For a full 3 days he lay, suspended between life and death. But on the morning of the fourth, he woke, and began chattering in a language the Incarnationis could not understand. Eventually, he managed to communicate his desire for...a square log? The log...he...floated...Ah! The “log” is brought in, and is revealed to actually be a book, of entirely foreign make. It turns out to contain many illustrations, some familiar, some exotic. Most have been erased by the sea, but enough remain that the man and the Kahro are able to work together to ascertain roughly where on the continent he is and where he hails from.
>If the Kahro let him go home
Soon a larger diplomatic mission arrives, with a proper Xyctho-Tarnic dictionary and some goods for sale.

>>4015693
The Tarns know both languages the B’oo speak, though they are more comfortable with the Tidal language. This, it is in this that they choose to respond.
“Greetings. We are the Tarns. Our country is just west of the Tidal Empire. We come in peace with goodwill to all men. Who are you?”

>>4019425
This Garish accent in the Shiny Ones' tongue makes it difficult to understand. "Goodwill"? What is this "men" thing? This H'ymoi way of speaking is a tragedy, but D'sic perseveres on for future knowledge.

*in Tidal language* "We are B'yogi and you landed in our homeland of Simhyn. What brings you here?"

>>4019622
“We wish to meet all the people’s in the world, to learn about their ways, and perhaps to teach them some of ours.”
With that, the Tarns unveil the gifts they have brought on their ship. Arrayed on luxurious furs, silvery jewelry catches the light and glows in brilliant blues and yellows. The Tarns look at the B’oos, hoping that the hosts like their gifts.

>>4019672
D'sic and his crew inspected the gifts. Soft furs of exotic animals and grey jewelry of many colors. Wanting things because they're shiny is so primitive, but it's a good enough reason to want it!. He calm himself so he wouldn't show he was excited.
"Yes, yes, yes, Garnish Ones. This will do. We also wish to learn from other people and nations. Perhaps even work together in the future? If you wish to talk to our leaders, travel to our capital of Fright in the west. My Second-in-Command, T'scar, will escort you. Though I suggest you stop at the Temple of the Three so your mind becomes strengthen. Foreigners always seem to go insane from staying here for too long. A strange phenomenon indeed."

>>4019089
THIS POST IS SUPERSEDED BY THIS ONE.

THE SECOND KAHRO WAR
>>4011240, >>4009650, >>4010761, >>4012024, >>4010982
The Silver Dwarves begin their march across the plain. Armed with axe and mace and war-pick. Clad in steel and Dwarven-bronze. They scream their bloody war songs as they come. The Kahro younglings are taken to Mausoleum for safety, all who can fight, do.
The mass of Dwarves crash into the throng of Kahro & the few Rut'ra that made it south, it is a bloody slaughter for both sides. Dwarves crush and slice through the flesh, the Kahro & Cravers rip and tear through the Oppressors. But finally the Dwarves are triumphant in this first battle. The wounded are left to writhe in pain and defeat, or else be squashed under Ashen heel. They continue north. The Worms of New Delta see what comes for them, and they cannot let it happen. They release their twisted Hounds into the horde, but only a handful of Dwarves are killed before the dogs are put down.
The lay of the land forces the attackers through New Delta control, already they are being pelted with iron slag & overburden from their mines & forges. They continue onwards. Unlike the cities of other races, Kahro cities, if they can truly be called that, are a twisting labyrinth of conjoined nests. They spiral outwards then upwards, forming a strange tower. The height of it allows incredible vantage, any move the Dwarves make will be seen. Rings of their sticking Caro plant surround the city, and the defences mean that any Dwarf that attempts to cover them will be swiftly killed. The Dwarves fall to option 2, retreat and attack through Meluz lands.
With the encumbering armour, it is a four day march, where they are finally joined by a small force of the Gylden. The Dwarves squeeze their way up through the south east and bathe their weapons in fresh Rattler poison. They work their way north, killing whatever stands against them, avoiding the Flesh Mission, though the Nuck'lavee had already been secreted away for it's protection. The march carries northwards where they set about the Hatchery. Here the Kahro are more ferocious, and more Dwarves fall here than before. At last the Hatchery is burnt. Advancing the Ashen are stopped by a wide river, unable to be forded. With further advance being costly, the Dwarves step back. In all the Kahro suffered the greatest losses, followed closely by the Ashbeards, and then the few Cravers already in Kahro land. Two swathes of Incarnationis territory are taken from them, and their butchery & hatchery burnt.
Thus ends the Second Kahro War.

END OF INTERLUDE.

>>4015035
The minor mistakes are annoying but "magic" is currently in its early stages so a few hiccups here and there can be ignored. For now anyways.
Action 1:
>establish ammolite mining company to extract and refine the ammolite
The ammolite deposits seem to be few and far in between, and it is thought that they could run out very quickly. Thus the clan sets up a mining operation to extract the ammolite, a large portion of the profits and product are redistributed among Paitoy.
Action 2:
The recent silencing of the Narsics and their assumed ruination is of great interest to Amplect. Thus a team is assembled, before being sent to Vandala however they are sent to go explore and see if they can recover some stuff from the former capitol of the bear's, this exposé is to be short and merely a practice run before they explore a possibly dangerous (and very cold) ruin, they lightly loot the bear's city if it is found to be safe, taking any artifacts they come across and sending them to be studied in Bothrio. After this short exploration they are sent south to go see what has become of the Narsic capitol of Vandala, they are equipped with a skilled translator who is adept in deciphering foreign texts. They are also equipped with about half as many guards as there are civilian personal.

DIPLO - FROGS
An ambassador is sent to Reed River under a veil of secrecy, he is here to respond to what the Frogs had talked to them about but had not ratified, that being the military actions they were to be hired to do against the snakes. (the attack of arson against their cities which had been planned but not executed due to communication errors between the two nations) The ambassador asks if the leader's of the frogs if they are still willing to arrange this attack, Amplect is fully supportive of a war with the snakes at this moment and just need a little bit of financial and diplomatic assurance so that even if a 3rd party (namely the tarn, who may be against this action by us) does intervene the war could have still be well worth it for the Clan. In order to show that they are not simply trying to exploit the frogs the Dragons are willing to sign a pact of protection, that even if all the world goes against them that the dragons will protect the frogs eternally, that even if the swamp were to burn down and the seas become hard and stormy that Amplect will do its best to preserve the frogs, whether they be in their native home or whether they be expelled from their rightful lands by aggressive powers.

>>4020584
me by the way

>>4015028

1. The short men of the mountains have shown their hand, and the Kahro's tales of their warmongering were no lies. Hollow tubes of bone in Neverborn wail their cries as demented horns, belaying the message to all followers of Grist'thromir. The Charnel Lands goes to war for itself and its allies. The Raut'let are seeded across the strait upon the mainland, for the Nuck'lavee can no longer be at risk.

2.
Crimson tendrils and veins cast themselves into the waters of the straight, swimming towards the Flesh Mission. The Charnel Bridge bares fresh supplies for the monks, along with a team of Cravers directing packs of Rut'ra and Rovers. A single flesh-ship from Shab'let is sent south to aid with the transport of the servitors and protect the straight.

At a memorial ceremony to those lost in the Vomenkore, or Purging Wars, the King removes his helm and mask to give a speech. As he ascends the podium, he is struck by a thrown axe! It lodges into his collar, and the force causes him to stumble.
In a rage, he springs up, tearing the axe from his body. Blood flows freely as the King's eyes burn in fury. He rushes onto the stage to survey the crowd, ignoring his guards and scribes. He relinquishes a horrendous howl, hurling the axe at a hooded figure attempting to flee. In his final moments, he calls out to Therkuunaz, and collapses. The King Is Dead.

Both identity and motive unclear, not helping dampen the blow dealt to the nation with the untimely demise of their great ruler.
In his reign he had ushered in many years of good fortune and growth for the dwarven peoples. His name will be commonly spoken for many generations to come.
As is the way of succession, the royal coffer is unsealed and the heir is discovered.
Verengar "Zuvzelt" Vvraitog, a veteran of the Vomenkore succeeds Drthainvuld Gadzar'Hrathzigg "Grattfrz" Ragnikaz, and becomes third to the throne.
May his rule be iron and his will be just. Long Live the King.

>>4020584
The Tarns and frogs have been training together and are thus well coordinated, and endeavors are made to include the Tidal Empire as well. An invitation is sent to the Tidals promoting a joint military exercises between the three nations in the uninhabited southernmost province of the Frog Kingdom.

>>4020158
After acclimating at the temple, the Tarns head to the city. They marvel at the shiny turquoise gems, and ask if the B’oo have more.

>>4012029
The Elezen respond with a very small group of Champions. As adventurers, they're not really a representative of the Republic. They're really just people out to fight and create legends for themselves. For the time being, they will observe and report back what they see to determine if this is something that the Republic as a whole will be needed for or if they are better off with a smaller response of Champions and their retinues.

>>4021082
The Dragons are happy at this news, for it means this war will be much easier for them and with no real diplomatic drawbacks as well. Honestly they thank the Tarn for providing such ample opportunity. But the Dragons would prefer to merely be providing air support, as that is what their troops specialty is. They will set up their camp a little ways away from the joint camp and will be there in order to make sure everybody know's how eachother's tactics work, they will also be there in order to form joint planning for mutual understanding and efficiency. Although for now only a relatively small number of dragons will be there due to a lack of a sizable military.

>>4020733
Diplo
>Second Kahro War

With the lack of the droughts impact felt on the Charnel Isle compared to the mainland, the excess is taken in stride. The Genebank begins the churning out of Rut'ra packs with new bone plating to fight back the mountain dwelling outlanders. In the interests of the Flesh Missions safety, the newborns and some of the old packs are sent due south from where the devastated Kahro forces were driven back from.

>>4021095
The Wise B'yogi are curious about the Garnish Ones. They bring wonderful gifts, but they want their precious turquoise in exchange for more new luxuries! They debate amongst themselves on what to do.
"Sell!"
"Take!"
"Barter!"
"Give!"
In the end, they agree to trade with the Garnish Ones in exchange for more goods and knowledge.

>>4021218
Dwarven reserve forces would occupy the dwarven borders north in the case their assault was not enough to keep back any vengeful creatures.
Their presence turns out to be needed when new flesh beasts decide to launch an attack to continue the conflict.
Though their numbers low, they should be able to hold back the enemy at least long enough for reinforcements to arrive.
Large numbers of veterans and wounded would rest back home while fresh warriors from the underworld and any veterans still seeking blood are sent to battle in the north.
This time the dwarves will benefit from goat cavalry in preferable terrain that vary from heavily armored macedwarves to strike the flanks of their enemy, and lighter armored skirmishers to harass and spread thin the beasts.
The King joins the battle to solidify his rule and uplift the dwarves.

A wave of migrants arrives to Zarjotun'torzdun, allowing them to grow and expand further.
>Expansion

The dwarves had long wondered what else may lie within the darkest depths of the underworld, being home to the ancient mint suggesting a lost civilization's ruins may still reside deeper in unseen stone.
But with expansions outward, they have neglected to seek treasures inward that may prove quite fruitful.
The Forgand'grutt sets its picks upon the capital and the area around the mint to search for anything forgotten to time.
>Explore the Underworld

>>4019080
Dwarven artists are always eager to share their craft.
Many musicians attend bringing with them horns of ram and bronze, drums, bone flutes, bone percussion instruments, and some unique handcrafted items.
Many acts containing multiple of the mentioned instruments, all with one common theme of being repetitive and loud.
Some members of shouting guilds even try to attend claiming their voice is their instrument, wishing to share their talents.

>>4017433
The dwarves ask if they may be permitted in the soon future to send workers south so that a road can be made to connect the capital to the isolated settlement southeast.

>>4021341
The "shouting guilds", as they're called, are completely welcome. We Meluz respect all forms of art under the same title. Art. That is all. Though they may hold different subtitles, they fall under the same creatively-oriented category. Often times, they work well in tandem with one another. Just as a good story needs music, or how a good song complements a painting perfectly. Furthermore, a singer often needs an instrumental.

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>>4015035
Deep within the Labyrinth, the Matriarch's crystalis has been dormant for sometime. Shortly after the Matriarch was encased, the mad ants went into a sort of hibernation, falling asleep around the crystalis. Its halls are deadly silent with only the wind howling through the colony on the odd occasion.The members of the inner circle have been the most impatient, even unsettled and uneasy in these strange chambers. Surrounded by flesh monks and mad ants for so long in this strange place that spitsin the face of established norms, even they begin to question their own sanity. Despite this they wait... and wait...until suddenly the slumbering ants rapidly wake up and start screeching.

Loud sounds like breaking bones and a steady heartbeat start to echo out from the crystalis. "She's returned! She's returned!" cheer the mad ants and shortly after the crystalis can be seen shaking violently before a crack appears. As soon as it's cracked, the crystalis stops all activity. The Labyrinth is quite once more. The Monks and the inner circle start to grow concerned that something went wrong. As one of the monks approached the crystalis to observe it, it violently explodes sending pieces of Chitin flying. Thankfully the Monk is only knocked back, but when he looks up he's greeted by the sight of what he and his colleague's hard work had amounted to. The Matriarch stands before him, but she's nothing like what she was when she went in. Glee and excitement fills the flesh monks at the sight.

The inner circle stares with bewilderment and awe, even slightly fearful. "Is that how you greet your Matriarch after she's been gone for so long?". Her voice carries far greater strength and dominion than itever did before, snapping the members of her court back to their senses. One of the broodmothers quickly speak up "Your majesty! What an honor it is to have witnessed your rebirth!". Nethazar strides up to the broodmother. "The honor is mine child for I am only the first. Bask in the glory of OUR new form! Rejoice as you will be remade just as I was and you too will finally shed those shells holding you back and join me in this new dawn!" The matriarch stands upright and she gently places her hand on the broodmother she towers over, caressing her head in her palm. The broodmother replies "Remade? I'm sorry your majesty, but I would prefer to stay as I am now." The Matriarch looks to the rest of the inner circle "Do you all feel the same?" Hesitantly they all answer yes save for a few nurse maids.

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>>4021777
Lore: (Continued)
"I see, a pity". The Matriarch effortlessly crushes the head of the broodmother next to her. "Just as I did not need the old queens, I do not need those who would hold us back. Remove them."
Within seconds the mad ants descend upon the ants who refused. They hardly had anytime to realise what was going on before screeching mandibles utterly tore them apart, sparing only the nurse-maids. "And what of you. do you wish to join the others or me?" Nethazar asks them. "You, your majesty! We see the glory that you have envisioned for the ants and want to join your cause as loyal servants. But we have a request. We have served you loyally and chosen to stay by your side, will you grant us the right to be Queens so we may serve you by helping to usher in the new generation?". The Matriarch laughs "Despite all this you still have the courage to bargain. This bravery is what the swarm needs! Your wish is granted. Now come my daughters, there is much that needs to be done before the swarm can be saved."
For the first time in a while, the Labyritnh is alive yet again.

Actions:
>War: Harmony:
-With the frontlines contested and the slimes' advance slowed down, the ants deploy a scouting force to study the slimes in detail in the region previous parties found the largest concentration of.
These war scouts spend days soaring through the skies, choosing to rest in areas where they find little to no slime presence. Eventually in their search they notice a horde of slimes much larger
than any they previously spotted. Upon closer observation they believed that they not only have found the main nest of the slimes (Quire) but they notice that they are transporting water back to their source. After reporting their findings, a force of caelum are assembled to take flight to the river mouth to the North of Quire. Unsure as to extent the slimes need water, the ants decide it would be advantageous to cut their supply to the resource none the less as they are clearly dependent on the resource just as the Sable are. A large swarm Caelum fly to the mouth of the river and begin to close it by filling it with sand, stone and anything else they can get their mandibles on to create a dam and to dry up the river with the aim of starving the Slimes of water.

-The war in the North has drawn some of the military might of the ants, but not all of it. Caleum scout the Dwarven lands and report back the location of the Dwarven capital. As soon as they have the location the workers begin digging earnestly into the soft earth of the jungles and work their way South towards Aeuntirgardun. After months of hard work the ants are finally close but they halt their digging operations once they've managed to carve a large chamber out beneath the city in preparation for what's to come. As they excavate the tunnel, the ants carve out stone cubes which they transport and stack on the southern border to build a large stone wall to defend against the dwarves.

>>4021780
>>4009650
>Diplo: Kahro
The ants had always respected their own achievements, taking great pride in the work they had those before them had done. It's little surprise then that they would prefer to be among those they felt had earned a place among their ranks, those that worked for their place in the swarm. At first the ants were slow to accept the Kahro, not only on the basis of their nature but also because they had seen them as freeloaders who had simply been given a place in the Mausoleum out of pity. It is for these very same reasons, however that the most recent efforts of the Kahro's attempt at fortifying the fledgling colony was well received by the swarm at large.

Though many ants still refused to live among the Kahro in the Mausoleum, the ants of the Crypts were far more welcoming than the rest of their kin. Zaroka's brood had long been seen as the "outsiders" by the rest of the ants. Their very own living conditions had made them quite jaded as the swamps weren't the most warm and kind places to visit with all manners of difficulties and dangers that lurked in its muddy depths that made the life of those there quite hard. Unlike the others, the Crypts were unphased by the morbid relationship that would need to exist between them and the Kahro, the only thing that mattered is that you could pull your weight and they had proved that they're certainly willing.

Seeing potential in their new friends, Zaroka decides it's best to capitalize on the more "progressive" nature of her brood and to send some of her broodmothers to join the Kahro and work on building a stronger relationship with them. Her brood arrives just in time to fill the colony with much needed manpower. The diplomats stationed there have been trying to keep everything organized but the developments of the war have thrown it into a mess. A broodmother named Izaka is placed in charge of the operations here and is given the right to act as a temporary queen by Zaroka herself. Shortly after arriving, Izaka pulled the ants and Kahro together. With the dwarven threat still out there, the first thing they do is rush out to the Hatchery. Together the ants and Kahro work as fast as they can to safely secure and relocate as much of the hatchery as possible within the Mausoleum.

>>4020584
>Diplo: the Tidal Empire
The Tarns, prospering economically from their dealings with the frogs, seek to purchase large numbers of primers and other education materials for children.
>Also
The joint military training goes off without a hitch and is relatively uneventful, improving all three’s comfort with working with one another. There is one innovation that does come out of this, however. While the troops on the ground can see and coordinate with the dragons reasonably well, the reverse is significantly more difficult. To remedy this, a basic signaling system is devised, where ground troops can signal the dragons that the path is clear by shaking their shields in unison. As the shields catch the light, they produce a glimmering effect that is visible even high in the sky or through cloud cover. This allows the dragons to ascertain both the position of units and the opportune time to attack.

>>4021270
>Diplo: B’oo
Unfortunately, the expedition group is all out of trade goods at this point, but they do have a small amount of silver wire and a youth who is nimble with his fingers. He twists the wire around two small pieces of turquoise, produce twin bracelets sized appropriately for each race. One is gifted to the B’yogi, while the other is kept by the leader of the Tarnish ship. Together, they represent the hope of a new yet everlasting friendship.
>You can access all of the following through our trade network
>Fur
>Meat
>Bread
>Wood
>Silver
>Copper
>Bronze
>Coal
>Iron
>Jewelry in glass and now turquoise
>Shields
>Spears
>Steel(Luxury)
>Books(Rare)
>Salt(Rare)
>Gold(Luxury)
>Dwarven Ale(Rare)
>Sulfur(Rare)
>If you would like to collaborate on anything, feel free to PM me.

>>4021780
Since my warpost is unecessary, please use my lore post as my other action.
essentially what it would translate to is:

"Matriarch starts laying new ant eggs while the flesh monks begin to rework the nurse-maids into new queens as well".

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SCENE FOUR

>>4015304
>Llychlyn
[R] Scouts are periodically sent outside of Llychlyn lands, in search of game or danger, whichever is more sought at the time. It is in one of these excursions that it is found the heatwave & drought had melted the snow in a small section in the south. Further inspection shows the terrain to be rocky, with few signs of life save a scratching grass, and even this is rare. The land itself is a pale grey, initial analysis claims it to be primarily salt. If it can be purified, it would be an excellent source of the stuff.
Work at the Forge continues, in both construction and manufacture. Picks of Blessèd Steel flow south, and the destruction of the ruin continues. It is at the ruins however that something truly forsaken takes place. For many days now the sounds of grinding and footsteps had been growing closer, and yet nothing was seen within the ruin, as work continued those most affected by the sound scream in terror, and scramble at the rock to escape. They cry out that they see a beast of iron and fire dashing from the darkness, but none is evident. Thirty workers drop dead from fear. Nevertheless work carries on, in fact with greater fervour!
The LCL Teithiwr sails proudly, a marvel to all in Lunedannedd!

>>4015408
>Tarn
Word of the arrival of the Othinians reaches the ears of the Northern Expedition. Excitement fills them, and half the team departs from the B'yogi to find this northern kin. They sail round the Horn of Feast, then up the B'yogi's coast. Shortly they sail into FHR waters, and though not the Othinians (not that the Tarn know this) they find who they believe to be them. (>>4015424 A small team of Tarnic boats have sailed into FHR controlled waters, please tell what happens to them)
The Tusker breeding programme is set under way, and in time three disparate breeds begin to be brought out. It will be another few tyrns of dedicated work before they are easily distinguishable.
(>>4019416 I believe this is actually supposed to be to the Depauns that survived the Golden Gyre)

>>4015424
>FHR
[R] There is talk in the eastern provinces that the nation of the dark elves to our south is in disarray. Something about a new pale-skinned king. It's likely that the outrage in the lower country may be turned to our advantage, If, we can find a way in.
[NM] Away from their homeland, and not yet attuned to the flow of energies in this one, the Moon Elves power is greatly diminished, many managing to only sparkle at their fingertips. But through meditation, prayer to both their old & FHR gods, along with study and practical training, they begin to improve. It is not yet a deadly trick, more a nasty shock, but given enough input, it will become fearsomely powerful.

>FHR cont.
The book was ancient, little more than dust in some parts, but thankfully enough is saved for the construction of a rolling machine. The intricacies of such are nigh-unintelligible, something about a floating flower or the like. No matter, what can be understood is savoured, and more importantly put into action. Two cylinders of solid iron are cast, and pinned in place within a complex housing of gears. A team of men turn a crank continuously, and this motion forces hammered sheets through the rollers, creating thinner and thinner sheets. It is a laborious process, and the pressures involved frequently crack the gears, needing to be refashioned before manufacture can continue. But the machine produces plates of metal thinner than any team of men with hammers could! Thin enough that one can cut through the iron or steel sheets with a pair of secateurs.

>>4015693
>B'yogi
The beasts of shadow are a delight, though the giving of consciousness is less successful. They remain little more than movement, without even instinct. It seems there is a limit even to what faith may do. The shadow beasts are an illusion of this new magic, yet the B'oo hold another magic, a more primal magic; The one with which they alter their own form. Perhaps, though the thought frightens us, we may alter the form of other B'oo, those naughty ones who act upon their wicked emotions. They would be a real fight. If we could stoop so low.
At first, removal of the acid with turquoise pots did not seem to lower it's level, but the more the B'yogi took it did in fact lower. The Bone-Serpent grew restless, appeased only with sacrifices of flesh. Once the flesh had been, devoured?, the level would rise. There is a give and take to everything, even magic.

>>4016779
>Vossiks
The ancient class system is wired very deeply within the Elezen psyche, and will take a generation at least to be completely done away with. And even with this new system, many of the old upper class would continue to discriminate based on ones ancestry. It is a small step, but one which will shake apart from very old foundations.
Nomachian law states that no woman shall inherit the throne of Pokos, and yet the King could only produce daughters. The eldest of these is married to one of the most interconnected families within the Vossik Republic, with a web stretching from Terrata to Gilden and Tyrhen, and even dealings with the Sable. He's more a boy than a man, not yet 15 and nearly half the age of his new wife. But he will be easily swayed, if need be. With their joint coronation, Pokos effectively changes into Elezen hands.

>Vossiks cont.
Anti-royalist protests spark in the now de facto capital, Oldek, and the state solidifies itself into the Nomachian Democracy. No kings! No masters! This new nation had no military to speak of, barely holding control of the villages dotted throughout their lands. Soon the diamond mines would close, and work slow in the silver mines. Farms would continue to grow as before, though no longer sending their crops to Pokos. Their western trade partner would be left uninformed, with matters closer to home being of much greater importance (>>>>4015693).

>>4017433
>Gyldenthrong
Gylden lands to the south are probed. Most turn up empty handed, yet three test pits show promise. First is just south of Vogazdun, a strange mineral which it is believed the Ashen have also found, we shall have to see if they know how it can be made of use. Second is west of Kirurlag, another abnormal mineral, another we believe shows promise. And third, in the southernmost point of Gyldenthrong, a more immediately beauteous find, (CHOICE! Crystal Geodes, Lapis, Malachite).
The masters of Æblekag are excited by the find. Hmm, it's not a native species to our forests, for certain. Though possibly a close relation, it's from decent aged trees for damn sure! Cold climates, short summers I'd reckon. Weathering shows it's been at see no more than say, oh, three months? Judging by the proportions, it was a small vessel, maybe to hold a crew of five at most. See this grease here? Fish guts residue. My guess, there's some sea people out there, over the Glyndon, maybe the heat did 'em in.

>>4019080
>Meluzina
The snakes begin their digging, a tunnel much longer than any before it. Collapses are common in the beginning, but reinforcing beams are brought in to continue the work. They work and work, day and night, reaching through their forest and grassland, into the dark soil of the jungle. They have to cut through the thick roots of ancient trees, causing panic throughout whenever the ground groans. After this they are into the swamps, going continues until the earth becomes too saturated. As soon as a hole is dug, it fills with muck and water. Continuation would require either digging into the rock, no easy task, or struggling through this quagmire. The message is relayed to the council. What should be done?
Grumpy frogs stare down from the walls, wondering what all that racket is. They huff, and return to duties, though irritated and constantly checking on the ruckus.

>>4020584
>Tidal
The ammolite mine soon becomes an open pit, as the scarcity of the resource becomes apparent. Rock is carved away and sifted through for the gems within. Most often only fragments of the stuff is found, but as digs continue two entire fossilised beings are found, shimmering in oranges and greens.

>Tidal cont.
The Ursic Expedition sets off from the Pharos island, along with a supply line from the mainland holding. Small artefacts of the Frostgrowth bears had been ploughed up now and then, a shard of pottery, a piece of worked bone or the like, but it had been many years since they had entered their hibernation. Upon rediscovering Kumursus, they see there is little left. Wooden huts had been blown away and worn down by time and nature. Even the mighty Blessing tree had withered away, still standing, though most definitely dead. Digging through earth and a fine layer of snow, dozens of Ursa skeletons reveal themselves, still curled around one another. They had gone to sleep, and simply not awoken. Most of what remains is fragmentary. The largest find is that of a cache of cut gemstones, those once embedded in the fire-dish of the lighthouse.
With this mission over, a second is sent into the ice. Luckily the crew avoids the wrath of the Gaunt Men that roam there, and find the Narsics settlement. It is not how they had envisioned; hovels of piled stones, in concentric rings, around the remains of a central dais. Amidst it lay a large pile of black rubble and bones. The Narsic are nowhere to be found, as if they had simply vanished. All that can be found of any possible worth within the camp are two fishing spears of a dark metal, about the weight of iron. Even outside of the ice they remain cold to the touch of bare skin.

>>4020733
>Cravers
A gruesome stepladder of flesh worms its way over the strait, supported by spires of bone. Rut'ra, Kos'tr, and Raut'let alike may worm their way across in preparation for the coming battle. The Flying Maw settles itself next to the Flesh Mission, here where they will be constantly fed.

>>4021341
>Ashbeards
Hill and snow, hill and snow. This time with much more to graze on in the north, whilst the snow provides fresh (enough) water to brew with. Supplies must still be brought in for the most part, but it is worth it to live within the sacred mount.
The mint proves that others were here before, and yet, no trace of them can otherwise be found. The Mint room is searched, and brings up nothing, the stone is just so, as if it had been willed into existence. Perhaps the mountains grew around the thing? It is impossible to say. Therkuunaz is a God of many mysteries after all.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4021780
>Sable
(If Harmony doesn't post next turn I'll write up the war in your favour)
A bore is dug, and the ants start the long task of burrowing south. Well versed in the tunnelling of jungle and hill, this section is complete. Yet as they continue, the mountain stone presents a problem, for it is tougher than the Ants have previously dealt with. It is from this tough rock that they begin instead their construction of the southern wall. Enough is gathered to stretch halfway across the shared border, though the Ants mean to wall from river to river given time.
The terrible amalgam of a being the Matriarch has becomes, perches herself in her throne room in Labyrinth, and begins to lay her first brood, the Salvation of Sablekind!

DIPLO
>>4015408 (>>4017433)
Papa's eyes are suddenly alight at the sound of both his old, true name, and his old, true enemy. He jolts to his feet & screams for the men to leave! His voice loud enough to rattle the teeth in their mouths!

>>4017433
A Redcap knows a fight when he sees one, and this one is spitting in his face. For this here was the whole "tribe", all of the Tallaght, these few filthy-beards. They were all the ones who had eaten this man's son, the resemblance was obvious; the puffy red face, the golden beard, the upturned nose, father & son alright. There is a squabble between them, eventually one comes out on top, and he will face this fat Dwarf. The Redcap rejects the weapons, favouring his talon-like nails, and razor teeth. This would be a quick battle.
1. The Goblin charges at the Dwarf, and in no more than a second, the attacker falls down dead. His head rolls from his neck, fiery ichor spilling from the wound. Grugnir's son had been avenged.
2. The Goblin charges at the Dwarf, the axe is cast aside, the shield splintered, teeth sink into neck. A tear and Grugnir falls, clutching his bloody throat. Soon he would bleed to death.

>>4020584
Do it. Whatever it costs, the Snakes are a threat beyond comprehension. With the pumps disabled, we are limited to what gas we have already collected, and cannot rightly export it. But we open our supply of extracted sulphur to you, we have little use for it.

>>4021218 >>4021339
(when war is formally declared, I'll write up "The Northern War", or whichever better namm

END OF SCENE FOUR.

>>4022586

>Precious Stone Find:
Lapis, a better contrast with gold all around.

>Action 1: War of Vengence!

The Goblins have denied Grugnir his own vengeance, slicing him down with nails and talons. Yet in doing so in such a way, without use of tool or weapon, they have proven themselves Monsters, not Dwarves. Word of this revelation carries back, through the forests to Kirulag; then onward back to Gyldholm, where the King finally learns just what manner of beasts they have come to share a border with, worse then the Flesh-worms! The Tallaght are decreed by the Gylden Dwarves as false-dwarfs, Dwarf-eaters and true enemies of Dwarvenkind. A War of vengeance is declared for Grugnir upon these red-caps, Armoured infantry marching from Kirurlag with Boar-riders at the flanks and guiding the vanguard. The lands of the Redcaps are to be seized and made truly Dwarven; we will plant a Dwarf Garrison where that camp now squats.

>>4021339
Diplomacy: Ashenbeards
The Ashenbeards are commiserated that they have found, not the Dwarf cousins we had hoped; but a breed of monsters trying to fool us all with near-Dwarven guise. Nonetheless, the Ashenbeards have had more luck in making peace with these creatures... The Ashenbeards are offered the chance to join with us in battle against them, but if they want to take these Red Murderers into the north instead they will be welcome to drag them them away from Gylden lands; be it through peaceful convincing in the beforehand... or as captives of the war afterward.

The Silver Dwarves are given permission to build a road, the Golden King has been thinking of driving a road up the banks of the Gylder to Cewri'jotregk and Vogasdun to compliment the river traffic. Though, if only the mountains at our flanks were friendly for a true extension of the under-roads... which gets a few minds thinking...

>>4021095
>Diplomacy: Tarn
The Tarn are politely but firmly escorted out of Papa's presence. The Giant has made his opinion clear, there will be no further questions there. It would be, the Dwarves remark; better that the Tarn just kill the stone then seek to appease the thing inside it.

In a separate incident, the Tarn are approached by Dwarven envoys. The mountain lands between Dukkezop and Cewri'jotregk have been scarcely used by the Tarn since their hunting warriors departed south for Roodkhane. The Gylden Dwarves wish to make purchase of these lands, if the Tarn would be willing to sell.

>>4022586
“You agreed to WHAT?!”
“Look, it was a spur of the moment decision—don’t you always say to seize the opportunity? The frog deal was too good to lose! So I signed whatever they gave me. Frankly, I don’t even get why you’re so angry about it.”
“You don’t get why I’m angry? Do you have any idea what you just set in motion?”
“...”
“...”
“No?”
“THATS IT! GET OUT! GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY OFFICE! RIGHT NOW!”

Action 1: Academies rearrange
As smug as the cat that ate the canary, the separatist diplomat annonces to the governor of Jaakal that, effective immediately, the military academy and its instructors will be moving to Roodkhane. The governor is enraged, but there’s little he can do. Most of the instructors were separatists in the first place, and wouldn’t come back even if ordered to. All he can do is move on and make the best of the situation.
The former grounds of the Jaakal academy are converted into a school for training tuskers. The wide open drill field becomes a pasture for the enormous beasts and the old mess hall is jerry-rigged into a stable. Each year, the most promising boys in Jaakal are sent here to learn the art of mahoutry. After a year of basic training, the boys are allowed to select their very own baby tusker, who they will remain with for the rest of their lives. Four years later, both graduate and move on to professional mahoutry. The mahout-tusker bond is so deep and intuitive, it is rumoured to border on telepathy.

Action 2: Mandatory Service
The brand new military academy is welcomed lavishly by Roodkhaane, who shower it with gifts of land, money, and labor. The new campus ends up nearly double the size and capacity of the old. In addition to the increase in military units produced, the new grounds also allow for the devising of new tactics. One, called the Shimmering Scales, involves tightly interlocking the shields of the phalanx. Such a formation can withstand hails of arrows or thundering shield charges without faltering. The new phalanxes are sent to wherever they are needed, however most head to the kingdom of frogs, where new tensions are rumored to be stirring.

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>>4022895
The Tarns are more than willing to sell the land, with two conditions. The first is that a source of lead has been discovered in those mountains. The Tarns will keep ownership of that source and the right to tunnel underneath the province, solely for the lead. The second condition is that the dwarves pledge that, as long as the two nations are at peace, the passage between the mountains, the river beyond, and the ocean beyond that will remain open to Tarnish traders. Payment for the land can be completed in gold.
>Basically, we want the lead and a promise to always keep the Gylden River open to traders in peacetime.
>If your fine with those two conditions, then you can purchase the land with gold.

>>4022586
>>4015408
A small fleet of FHRDF ships is sent to intercept the foreign vessels. They will be turned away if communication cannot be done, interrogated if we can talk. Whatever these people are cannot be trusted not to just land and begin assailing our coasts.

1. With the promise seen in the lightning magics, and more funding is put in to it's development. Humans with some magical talent are brought in, and humbly, are taught by those who know their art. One day, a moon elf, experimenting with different materials for possible foci, grabbed a metal rod. When she idly casted a weaker spell, she was shocked when the spell, which should have merely should have sparked off the wall, blasted into the wall, and broke off a small stone piece. She quickly went to the others being trained, and within weeks, members of the technologically inclined clans of Dzen and Varke were filling out orders for iron or steel rods, which were being called Focusing Rods.

2. FHRDF forces are sent into the south to make contact with whatever government they could find. They would not enter as conquers, but as people looking to stabilize the region. Though whether that meant assisting what government had taken over, or making moves to secure land was unsure. Thus, diplomats were sent with the soldiers to discuss with who they found the future of their nation.

1. One People, One Faith
The time of multiple Elven nations has, ultimately, come to an end. The Vossaya officially authorizes a limited initial campaign into Oldek to bring the wayward Nomachian republic into the fold of the wider Vossik Republic's sphere of influence. Of course, the first overtures were peaceful. The Republic offers the Nomachian republic equal representation to any Vossik territory if it peacefully joins the Republic. Brothers should not fight. The Lightbringer has other trials in store. If Oldek would not respond to the glove it would need to be brought to heel with the fist. That was ultimately the purpose of the campaign. With the Nomachians having virtually no military, it was easy enough for Vossik riders to seize control of villages from the authority of Oldek and corral Nomachian officials where they could more easily handled. Lines of communication were easily cut by Elezen soldiers. Following the well armed riders would be the columns of infantry in their mail with shields and spears aglitter. The infantry would be the ones to begin the siege of Oldek. There before the walls of the city the Elezen soldiers would construct their siege weaponry. Great ballistas that could throw heavy stones or flaming barrels of pitch at the walls of the city. Elezen engineers, all too familiar with walls and fortifications, looked to methods of undermining the walls through mines and fire. Every day at high noon an arrows was fired into the city requesting its surrender and return to rule under the King in Pokos.

>>4023442
2. The New Republic
Changes to the caste system are but one of many reforms that the Republic undergoes in the many years since the Great Drought put such strain on its institutions. New bureaucratic institutions are formed to handle the rapidly developing economy and population. With a half-dozen large cities and many dozens of larger towns and hundreds of kosts throughout the Republic' extensive territory the simple bureaucratic methods of government control were rendered ineffective and obsolete. The Republic centralized it's governing body. All directives would come from the Vossaya, and only the Vossaya could legally be represented outside of Vossik territory. Only the Vossaya could make treaties, trade deals, mint coin, issue currency, and levy taxes. The old client state of Tyr was brought fully under the Republic's authority, with the province being given special status as a Free City without religious restrictions, but subject to an additional Faith tax that exempted the population from service, but also prevented movement outside of the provincial borders. The Office of the Exchequer was created, lending structure and form to the government's monetary policy and monitoring closely government projections of income, debts, and required finances for projects. The College of Bards established as an official government entity with rights, regulations, and even a salary. The old Getai class was more or less effectively abolished as an official caste with the creation of the Twelve Guidelines, a bureaucratic test required to be taken before any non-elected government position could be held that covered reading, writing, theology, philosophy, mathematics, and history. Of course, the test could be cheated, and many of the old Getai class found that their bureaucratic connections and focus on the written word made the test painfully easy for most to pass. Moreover, all of the old Getai class had been grandfathered into the new role and would not need to take the test. Such a measure was deemed necessary for it to even be implemented by the old scholars, and corruption within education was rife.

At the same time, authority was given to provincial governors to pass limited legislation that would not conflict with wider Republican law. The new office of Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, and Prefect were now responsible for the running of large numbers of kosts and levying of taxes. Their positions came with substantial financial and political rewards. Kostermen found themselves officially subordinate to the Vossaya in more than just oath, as the economic interconnectedness of the country tore down the old isolationist walls. The old saying 'The Kost stands Alone' was simply no longer relevant for the new era of the Republic. What was emerging from the changes was a stronger more unified Vossik Republic than had existed before. More robust social structure, institutions, and a sense of unifying identity supported by a vigorous religion.

>>4023261

Diplomacy: Tarn.

Open flow of gold and goods for gold along the Gylder is not only acceptable but worthy of the Golden light. The deal is heartily accepted.

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>>4022591

>1: establish a new settlement along the frog's border
Cocky as they may seem, the meluz at the wall are having too much fun. Seeing the ways in which those amphibians reacted to their copious amounts of noise has inspired a decent group of us to simply keep doing it. Some hope to warm the frogs up to the idea of joining in, and quit being such sticklers, while others are interested to see how much it will take before they do something. And so, a settlement is created. "Dynatós Thóryvos" is the settlement's name, meaning "Loud Noise". Festival-goers will find many places to rest near the center of town, while the outskirts, especially along the wall, are filled with big gatherings.
(Dynatos is located at the red dot)

>2: dig deeper
The representatives don't want to risk any cave-ins within frog territory, so they tell the workers to dig deeper, and to set up more supports in the cave. Better tools are provided, which can be used to burrow through the stone.

>>4022586

Seeing how there were plenty of stresses working in the Fanw Forsaken place of the south, and the fact that thirty workers ended up dying from what could only be described as fear has caused the work effort to be restructured to an extent. They would get more volunteers and organize the workers into three teams. The first team would work for two weeks, then, take a month break a fair way away from the work site as the second team moved in and took their place, then after another two weeks, they'd be replaced by the third team, who, after their two weeks would be replaced by the first. The hope was that this would be able to lessen the effects of the place on the workers which would improve their work effectiveness along with make the work safer for them. This, combined with more pickaxes would with any luck hasten the deconstruction of the place. Additionally, any who still suffered from effects that the Fanw Forsaken place had, would be given more time away from the worksite until they recover, along with extra time after they recover.

At Allfshys, work on the forge continues at good pace. The underground sections of the building were mostly complete. Only a few rooms needed to have a number of additions to them. Still, the above ground portions of the building had plenty of work still needing to be done, however on the bright side construction would stop inhibiting the production of the steel produced in the underground portions of the building. Soon enough, the above ground portions would be finished too and the building fully up and running at maximum efficiency but at the moment that was still a ways off. Regardless, once the building was complete, it'd look fairly nice, not as nice as the Eglwys fawreddog y ffyddloniaid but certainly would have its own charm. After all, efficiency was prioritized over looks, but even then it would still look quite nice. It would be quite useful regardless for the destruction of the place in the south considering blessed steel can strike the forsaken stone, and obviously because blessed steel could be used quite well for other uses, like weapons and armor, and it might even be used in the creation of something special for Clan Cadigan...Regardless, even if blessed steel didn't exist, a centralized location where smiths could work much more efficiently together was certainly useful.

Meanwhile in Lunedannedd, Clan Llewelyn prepared a number of their own, the most restless to explore and the most seaworthy. The LCL Teithiwr would sail around Lunedannedd a number of times as its crew grew accustomed to the control of the ship...Soon, it would set sail and explore the lands beyond. Soon, but not yet.


>Action One. More volunteers, and a more structured work schedule will, hopefully, improve the moral and mental health of the workers and guards, improve safety, and improve efficiency.

>Action Two. Construction still continues evermore on the forge. Not too long now...

>>4023277
The people here seem very guarded, so the Tarns attempt to act as friendly as possible. They give the men one of their last copies Xyctho-Tarnic dictionaries, allowing the two to communicate through the pictographic symbols within. They also gift the men(finally, another race of true men!) a chest of silver jewelry, set with blue and gold glass and couched in layers of luxuriant fur.

>>4022895
>>4022586

>Action 2: Strike the Earth Redux!

The Golden Dwarves dig new mines for the Alum and the Lapis.

>>4022586
Faith is such a fickle emotion, but at least we're gaining knowledge on the metamorphosis from the shadow beasts. Bone Mother, Bone Mother, worry not. We shall grow you food.

1. B'yogi were delighted to meet so many H'ymois from around the land, but they haven't had a chance to study them in depth. This must be corrected! First part of their plan to build a calming and beautiful city; much different from B'yogi are comfortable with. Oddly, H'ymoi minds break after staying here for a while. B'yogi make sure this new city will not cause that and strengthen H'ymoi psyches.
2.In preparation of inviting H'ymois to live in Simhym, B'yogi establishes the Bureau of Agriculture to begin plantation of editable food. B'yogi don't eat the food of this realm, but they do enjoy the taste and textures.

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>>4024956
Forgot pic

B'yogi sends diplomats to every nation they have a friendly relationship with (Hacmos, Tidal Empire, Tarn Humans). They ask if they will send some of their excess population to live in their new city. They bluntly say it's for research purposes to better understand everyone.

>>4024905
The marines and sailors of the FHRDF are, confused. One word in this tome they had been given shocked them, a word they hadn't expected to ever hear from another people ever. Tarn. The tarn had been allies of the FHS in the world that was, and perhaps they could be allies in the world that is. The ships were escorted to the dockyards of New Andreth, and some of the older members of the trade contingent there were asked if they could speak Tarnish, and if they could make any sense of the book the marines had. Some did, and they came over to the Tarnish ship, reading through the book, they were able to understand a bit. They were at least able to say this. "Hello friends of Tarn, it has been a while."

>>4022600
Tools and weapons designed to create fire are massed produced, the Depauns are readying for war and intend to strike a decisive blow to the heart of the enemy once first blood is drawn.

Action 1:
>ready for war
We must recruit soldiers, for now we raise the sons of Amplect up as they are willing to follow the Great Merchant for a fair price. They are armed with war scythes, massive weapons like those used by lowly humanoid farmers designed to reap snake instead of wheat. Their weakpoints are covered up with light chainmail and cloth armor so that arrows cannot harm them, overall their gear is light, for there will be much flying to do and much haste must be had in this coming conflict. Fire spreading bombs and tools designed to light fires are also equipped on every soldier, with each one carrying something designed to light the fire quickly such as some coal dust or sulfuric spread.

Action 2:
>create two more ships, the Trieneder, outfitted for exploration, heir to the Endocer and the Bisnocer, the first ship designed primarily for war, being slimmer and designed to go underwater more often and for longer periods. Its hull is reinforced in many areas with steel lining.

>>4022600
1.

In the cover of night when the dwarfs make their camp, a harsh shrieking wind tears across the land. The Raut'let soar above the unsuspecting dwarfs, before the flying scorge dig into the night watchmen, striking a panic. Before others reach, the dwarfs are lifted into the skies by hundreds of chattering maws.

2. Where the dwarfs have pushed up through once Kahro land, the Cravers seek to take back and return to their allies. The veins of the Charnel Bridge connect to the Flesh mission in truth, and cast even further south to aid the war.
[Expansion]

>Diplo

>Sable

The kind Matriarch has saw fit to aid the Cravers once more for their service, Caelum and Titanoms of the Sable in return for Cravic salt as a tool against the slimes. The small number of the insect kind is a concern, but they shall be put to some use. The Caelum aid the Raut'let in their night raids, while the Titanoms sneak behind the dwarfs to light fires.

>War
The proud and armored Ashen will receive no sleep, tormented by screams on the winds. With first light, the new Rut'ra packs begin hunting their weary prey across the burning plains.

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>>4022600
The mad ants have been kept frantically busy at the Labyrinth. The sheer volume of eggs the Matriarch can produce far exceeds that of what even her old youthful self could achieve. The ants battled to keep up with Nethazar's newfound fertility already when the nurse-maids emerge anew as well and join the Matriarch in swelling her new brood. The ants were spread thin and overwhelmed trying to keep up with the flood of eggs and young they were suddenly burdened with, some even working themselves to death. Eventually the young grow into capable if not terrifying worker ants that outperform their ancestral kin. Their reinforced mandibles have far greater ease crushing through the earth and even though their claws are not as strong they prove useful in their digging efforts regardless. Along with them, a few princesses are born as well which greatly pleases the Matriarch. For the time, the act of At'Ka'Rak is suspended within the Labyrinth alone for they require every broodmother they can get.

Actions:
- With their ranks filling at an unprecedented rate, the workers are put to task with providing for the needs of the colony while limiting their operations to their colony's region in order to avoid alerting any of the "other" ants that might be operating in the adjacent areas of their existence. Now the Matriarch and her broodmothers change their focus to producing an army, with a large batch of eggs being put aside so that their young could be groomed into soldiers and Caelum while a small batch is designated to birth Titanoms.

- The mountain has posed a far greater challenge to the ants than they had anticipated but this did not deter them from their task. They proceed with the excavation a bit further before before beginning to carve out a large chamber. It's not the most appealing design the ant's have ever produced, the roof of the chamber is littered with Stalactites while the far side of the wall is carved in the shape of a crude fortress with numerous small entrances scattered across its face and one large tunnel at its base.

>>4026636
Actions(continued):
forgot to add the following
2) - + Once the chamber fortress is complete, the ants continue to dig south.

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THE HARMONIC-SABLE CONFLICT
>>4012024, >>4008032
The understanding of the nature of these oozing beings comes at a high price to the Sable. Dozens of Soldier-Ants maimed, and then dissolved, often still panicking, scrambling to get out of the slime. It seems that conventional means of attack, even the Sables' acidic projectiles, will prove of little use against such a strange foe. Instead, a defence is perhaps the best offence; Halt the Slimes' advance. To this end, a series of impressive walls and ditches are constructed around the menace. Only a handful of Slimes, a scouting party perhaps, remain on the Sable side of the wall. Manoeuvring and manipulation allows the Ants to separate the mass into smaller globs. With glee, the Ants find that they soon become dehydrated by the blazing sun, becoming little more than an inert residue.

END OF INTERLUDE.

Posted on behalf of the Ashenbeards

"Dwarves build a road and population relaxes"

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SCENE FIVE

>>4022895
Gyldenthrong
(I will wait for the Ashen to return from whatever they're doing at present, to see whether you attack the Redcaps or if you simply escort them north >>4021341. Also can I get a map of the roads you want to build, you'll get what I think is appropriate next update)
Gold & Lapis, never has there been a more appealing combination! With this the first use of this new alum source is found, as a mordant to better stay vegetable dyes. With it the Gylden may begin to corner the market on long-lasting coloured cloth.

>>4023229
>Tarn
The much awaited rains douses the fire in the south, though a huge swathe of land is destroyed.
(not much else I can add, good job)

>>4023277
>FHR
The Focusing Rods, or simply Foci in some documents, were studied relentlessly. Solid metal rods were a good start, though their range was lacking, and accuracy less than ideal. More worrying was their occasional habit of discharging into metal objects nearby, instead of firing straight ahead. Some testing showed that roads with pointed ends could alleviate this, though not entirely. In the area of casters however there was far less luck. While some segment of the Moon Elves had a natural talent for the shaping of lightning, this was far less pronounced in those who had been born in FHR lands. Awoo & Half-Awoo showed no signs of magical capabilities, neither did the Othinians, and of the Men and Half-Elves of the Remnant, the Half-Elves were the more capable, though even they could not perform as the foreign Elves could. It is of note that those Men who show promise, are those with a passing worship of Slevni.
The Nomach Mission, as it is documented as, begins with a tentative march across the rocky Hacmos lands, where it is seen they worship ancient stones. The team is stopped and questioned of their business here, a quick conversation in Elven Trading Language (Elven or ETL for short) has them sent to Oldek, which the FHR had believed to be the second city of the Dark Elves. Outside the wooden walls of Oldek they are once more questioned, and when the guards are told they are come to bring aid, the mission is sent to the guildhall in town. There they are told of the situation:

>FHR cont.
For many years the Hacmos have been at war with themselves, over the issues of monarchy, democracy, and all other matters of governance. War is not an exaggeration either, there have been two conflicts within their own borders, the first a military coup which ended with the reinstatement of the King. The second being a splitting of the nation, after the death of the King led to a succession crisis, ending with the Throne of Pokos falling into Elezen hands. The party stand here now, within the Peoples State of Oldek, or the Nomachian Democracy, for no more shall we be ruled by a tyrant or puppet who calls himself King. It was under Elezen influence, that the Hacmos limited trade with the Humans, but with a new government here in Oldek, we are pleased to open trade. There is rumour of Elezen agitation but for now we do not worry. We will answer any further questions you have, though we can spare only a little time between public matters to which we must attend. There are inns in town, or cots here in the guildhall.

>>4023442
>Vossiks
The countryside is taken quickly, with the mines standing empty, the fields barely worked, yet Oldek holds out. For three days the walls stand against Elezen might, and then all at once crumble. The streets are desolate, and each house boarded against entry for they will not give in willingly. They are not here to kill their brother, but to bring them into the fold once again, and so they proceed to the guildhall. The large stone building is barricaded poorly, easily breached by Vossik forces. The Nomachian Assembly is gathered inside the main hall of the building, even with sword to their throat they are arguing. Hacmos is not a widely spoken language in the army, and so the full content of their quarrelling is not understood. When the force enters the hall the assembly fall silent. They wait for the Vossik to make their next move.
(>>4023277) So quickly are we proven wrong! For the Vossik sweep down upon us! (The men are trapped within the city as it is bombarded, wherever they stayed they are likely boarded in)
The New Republic codifies and governmentalises many existing institutions. Most within the cities notice very little difference, being already used to the rule of the Vossaya, but the rural kosts are far more resistant. To them it seems they are to be stripped of their ancient rights, and to be further taxed for their troubles!

>>4023879
>Meluzina
Dynatos becomes the festival capital of Meluzina, as well as a thriving centre of the visual arts. Much to the chagrin of the hermetic Soghoians, murals are painted onto that concrete wall of theirs. Beneath their wall, the tunnel continues through the rock. After much mining, there is a momentary panic as the ceiling collapses, luckily only one is injured. Once the panic subsides, the Meluz observe it was not rock, but concrete which fell, along with a small amount of swampy water. They have discovered the drainage pipes under River Reed.

>>4024186
>Llychlyn
It is after the first cycle completes that the effects of the place are understood, through observation and meticulous record keeping. The further within the ruins a volunteer worked, the faster its effects would take hold and the longer time away they needed to recover. Though after a certain point, there was no recovery, they would remain racked with fear and visions. For these poor souls, housing and care would have to be provided until they passed, most often from a sudden attack from within the body or suicide. The ordeal has widen Llychlyn understanding of the mind, and that like the body, it too must be cared for.
The place revels in the throwing of surprises, for after many tiring months of work, digging an endless straight corridor, a back wall is reached. With renewed vigour the volunteers destroy it in record time, and a malaise lifts from the world. Only native rock remains, and a long tunnel. It still holds an eerie sense in those who venture there, but no longer does grinding metal and heavy footfall disturb the sleep of those of Lunedannedd.
With the thing destroyed, roughly two thirds of the picks are returned by volunteers, with others squirrelling them away. Now it awaits to be seen whether the metal may be reshaped, and still hold its blessing.

>>4024956
>B'yogi
The town of Jubilation, built of the rock of this earth, and free of the shadow-dark of the B'oo now stands on the coast. It is a mishmash of Hacmos and FHR design, with the B'yogi copying large areas of what they have observed of Andreth, Oldek & the Plains Fort. Those B'oo sent to the town often shape themselves in the H'ymois image, to ease those who will no doubt decide to live in Simhyn. To this end, and seeing that different kinds of crops are a primary export and import of the nations the Watchers have observed, farms of whatever can be grown spring up. The farm bordering the Nomach grow a selection of wildflowers, grasses, & rear rabbits; all things they themselves like to study. The farm between the two southern rivers however plants whatever seeds they can buy from the Dark Elves, the Dragons & these new Tarn. (From Elves - Beans & Wheat, >>4025727 & >>4023229, what seeds can you sell the B'oo?).
Receiving the invitation, the Hacmos refuse outright, as well as denying them access to the Henge. "We are in turmoil, we cannot spare a single Elf."

>>4025727
>Tidal
The Soghoians are adamant, the Meluz are a threat. The Depauns train in the use of incendiary weapons, though not the jealously guarded flame-spitters of the Frogs.
Two new vessels are constructed, each with their own purpose, and each better built than those before them.

>>4026583
>Cravers
Flesh knows Flesh knows Flesh. The Kahro welcome the Craver into their lands, to form a union of the flesh.
(war post soon-ish)

>>4026636
>Sable
The surrounding land is picked clean in order to feed the ever-growing brood, even the farms of the Queen's Joy are reduced to bare mycelium to keep up with demand. But still it is not enough, Ants venture further afield, picking up whatever they can without arousing suspicion. Still it is not enough. Almost one (1. fifth, 2. sixth, 3. seventh) of the larvae wither. No matter, they will become food, the ants have done so in the past, and necessity demands it.
The tunnel-fort provides a place to rest, store, and feed, for the tirelessly working Ants. The venture continues south, deep below the Dwarves. Though unbeknownst to these Ants, they are far lower in the mountain than the Dwarves, it will require a great deal of near-vertical ascent to reach them from below.
The Slime beasts are kept further at bay with the introduction of salt from the Flesh, which seems to help dehydrate the creatures to be more easily dispatched.

END OF SCENE FIVE.

(The "Northern War" post will be up some time before Tuesday)

>>4024956
With the Elezen attacks on Oldek, a group of roughly 30 Dark Elves take up the Shadow-Creatures offer, for they fear the wrath of the Vossik.

>>4023277
>>4029293
[Diplomacy with FHR and the Nomach]
The commanders of the Vossik force lead their men before the townhall. They move on foot and with their mailed fists rap hard upon the doors three times. Then, that done, the subaltern of the general nails to the wooden doors the terms of Oldek's surrender. After, the general speaks out to the townhall: to the men that hide inside it, and to the people that had thus far been spared any harm. That all would be forgiven of the rebellious lands should they simply return to the fold of the Pokan King and join their kin in this union long prophesied. To the delegates of New Andreth succor is offered in the Vossik camp where they would be treated as honored guests befitting their high and sacred station as messengers. The Elezen then depart back to their lines to give the people time to deliberate and ultimately see the futility of further action against the powerful Dual State.

>>4029293
>>4029353
The breaching elves are met with not only the Dark elves, but a sizable contingent of soldiers of the FHR races, along with what look to be diplomats. The soldiers immediately turn to face them, shields and blades at the ready, one particularly tall with a round shaped helm of oil dulled steel growling at them. The diplomats are quick to retreat behind their security, and demand the Vossik elves to lower their weapons, and the soldiers of the FHRDF shall respond in kind. They do not wish to take part in this foreign war, and were merely there to see why the region seemed to be in turmoil. They did not wish for any upheaval her to spread into the borders of the FHR, and ask that they be allowed to at least depart the city under the terms of their Non Aggression pact. After hearing they will be allowed to depart and be allowed access to the Vossik camp, they decide to take them up on their offer, and depart. Hopefully, news that the FHR would accept refugees of the Nomach people would spread, and they were glad they had mentioned it before the breach. Under armed guard, the diplomats come to the camp, said guard being a Platoons worth of FHRDF soldiers, thus 50 total soldiers made up of the races in the FHR.

1. Further work on the flamesprayer project continues, this time on creating properly sealed tanks, as well as establishing a source for the coal tar found. If another substance could be used to thin it, it would be the same formula used with the old sprayers, well, at least as close as they could get.

2. A combination of shaping points on the foci, as well as more training funding is put into alienating the issue of "Arcing" as the attraction is dubbed. Better to get this solved now then regret not fixing it later after all. Those of magical talent are searched for among the populace, and many personal letters of work exchange delivered on behalf of Clan-Sah.

>>4025727
From over the ice and trackless frozen wastes come ragged and starving sailors. Their ships had been stuck fast in the ice, forcing a long trek overland to the last place that a settlement had been seen. These broken men speak in a strange tongue and appear as skeletal men with pointed ears. They draw pictures of ships, and ice, and a land of faraway towers, and ask to be helped home as best they can. They are the remnants of the Great Journey that had once sought to circumnavigate the continent and now they simply wanted to go home.

>>4029367
Alienating should have been eliminating. Not sure how the fuck I missed that.

1 - 2. The Dual State
After the surrender of the Nomach Democracy the reforms that had been slowly gaining traction in Vossik move south to the newly acquired territories of Pokos. A similar reorganization takes place. The Pokan King is given Governorship over the new province of Pokos, while the former Democracy is turned into a separate province under the nominal governorship of a different Hacmosan royal cadet house to prevent the consolidation of overmuch power in the hands of a single man. Through this measure the two states are rejoined. Between the two governors they have access to a sizable population and a great deal of good land for farming and industrial use. While much has suffered in the many civil conflicts it could be restored with some generational effort. The merge between Elven states did come with some and some serious issues that would need to be tackled. Much of the work of the Vossaya went toward ensuring that the new addition to the Republic would be stable. Other work would need to be done to ensure that the new state would be compliant. To those willing to accept the orthodox faith of the Elezen, full citizenship would be granted without any further shows of loyalty. To those that refused, they would be labeled Aan. Only those willing to join the faith proper would be given citizenship. In the wake of the unification between Elves there was a spate of internal violence as those that did convert were given free reign over many of those that did not. Neighbor could plunder neighbor, and pogroms would help weed out those that would not convert by force of social pressure. It was only after the dust had settled from this initial wave of religious pressure that the pokers and lawbooks of the Inquisition were felt by the Hacmos.

Even during this time of religious discussion the sheer financial and military power of the Republic could be felt in the new state as it was reorganized and rebuilt. One of the most powerful elements of the new social order imposing itself in Nomach was the disparity in population. The Dry Years had forced many Elezen from the cities and into kosts that were on poor soil. Rather than continue to toil in poor conditions, these towers were left empty and abandoned as many Elezen moved south to better land in Nomach. A great wave of migration from the mountains to the lowlands began to change the very fabric of the Dual State. Within a decade of the unification the tell-tale signs of Elezen habitation had left it's mark on the landscape. In abandoned towns and fields they had taken up residence in their tall stone towers cannibalized from the ruins of old Hacmosi housing. These new Elezen communities farmed, or took up industry where the old Hacmosi residents had either died or been driven away. In other areas Elezen and Hacmos lived in Hacmosi towns and villages working the land and trades in a manner not at all dissimilar to their darker kin.

>>4029293
Action 1: With the secret of bronze making discovered, the Tarns require a source of Tin to put it to good use. Luckily, old archives note a source of Tin in the lands neighboring Jaakal. This source is mined and developed into a true source of the resource. The resulting bronze is also investigated for possible uses beyond armor and weapons.

Action 2: Investigate Magic
The news that the Tidal Empire had suddenly begun mass producing books shocks the Tarnish Empire. Even more astonishing, however, is the rumor that they are doing so using “magic”. To the Tarns, magic is street sleight-of-hand or cup tricks, useful for scamming country bumpkins but not much else. They had never fathomed that it could be used to create objects out of thin air. Now, interest in magic soars, and a team of academy-trained scientists is tasked with unraveling the secrets of the arcane.
>Note that this is a general investigation of magic, not specifically aimed at making books. Also, I would prefer a revelation related to either a magical energy source or enchanting objects, but I’ll be fine with whatever you give me.

[R][NM]Now that the will of the Cewri is known, the Tarns must seek a different path to contain the Curse Stone. The Augursoul is consulted for his advice.
>Please give me a different path to resolve this issue.

>>4029293

Alright, here goes.

>1: further train military
Kirill wants to train our militia in the art of ambush tactics. Specifically through burrowing. If our troops can dig quickly enough on their own, then this strategy may also be used as a form of retreat.

>2: set up a base of operations in the drainage
The workers report back to the representatives with word of their findings. Representatives from all races seem kind of paranoid about it, asking many questions about what the workers saw. After their suspicions are confirmed to be false, they order the diggers to pull out, and send the architects in, alongside most of the military. Those going in are to establish a base of operations in the drainage system. Weapons and armor are carried, and food is transported. They also bring great reserves of venom to the base, almost completely running the capital's stock dry. The representatives feel like this is way too easy. NO ONE is to go topside in frog territory until further notice from the representatives. Until the base is built, those in the military are to keep a close eye on the workers, as well as their combative brethren. If the frogs learn we're down here, then we are done for.

>>4029289

With the Fanw Forsaken place of the south finally destroyed, there is much rejoicing. This day proves that the most forsaken and cursed of places can be overcome with strong will, sacrifice, and hard work. In time this day would become a holiday, one of both remembering the sacrifices of those who had died, but also that with faith the nightmarish places of the dark can be beaten back and destroyed. This whole ordeal has lead to a number of important things being done, specifically the first pickaxe, which had been used by a number of hands and was the first to strike at that forsaken place, would be safely secured and would be left in Eheubryd's care until a temple in Lunedannedd was made, then the pickaxe in question could be brought to the temple and stored in a reliquary there. Additionally, Eheubryd had a plan for a monument in Lunedanned's square, a statue of a miner, a explorer, a scribe, and two guards, along with a plaque on the statue with the names of all the miners, guards, carpenters and everyone else who was a part of the project, along with a special marking added to those who died during the project. They would make sure that the ones working on this statue were of the highest quality, however it would take some time to find someone, and as such the monument would likely take some time, along with not being the utmost priority.

The forge meanwhile, would continue on quite nicely, and, in a few months time would need but the final touches to make it look nice and have the upper levels fully furnished. This place would not just be a heart of the production of blessed steel but a heart of all other kinds of metal works made by the blacksmiths of clan Nist. And in Lunedannedd, the LCL Teithiwr would set sail, with a particular Child of Fanw known as Rhisiart Tudor on board. They would sail south, following Llychlyn until the land jutted out, and then, after a time sailing and rowing, would come across a land with cold tree's. The boat would sail next to the coast, and, a small team would get off and explore for a short while. Eventually, they would return to the boat and name this land Tirwin, for the grapes that Rhisiart claimed were, from what he learned from talking to the sea people, a key ingredient in the drink wine. Regardless, they'd sail north after, sticking moderately close to the coast, far enough that they wouldn't be able to be shot at by any natives, if there were any.

>Action One. Get close to finishing the Forge.

>Action Two. Start the Expedition that Clan Llewelyn has been desiring for ages to have.

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>>4029289

>Action 1: Expansion

Golden Dwarves push through and lay claim to Forest and mountain, to bring us to a border with the southern Ashen colony of the Burning mountain, the Grey cloud peak.


>Action 2: Personal Ballistics

The experienced Woodscrafters of Æblekag work on developing better bow weapons of a size able to be carried by a single dwarf, and which are enhanced by a Dwarf's strength and sturdiness whilst not restricted by his size or lack of arm-length. Using high tension to release sharpened quarrels at high speed toward the target, these weapons are considered useful in making up for a Dwarf's relative lack of speed by allowing nearly any Warrior or Militaman to contribute to a fight when not engaged directly.

So yes, Dwarven crossbow development.

>>4029184
>Diplo: Ashenbeards

An early batch of these weapons are sent northward after testing finally judges them satisfactory, so that our volunteer forces and the Silver Dwarves might use them in the war with the Bloodworms. Along with them, we send two of the Abelkag defensive rock-projecting engines in their unassembled state, for deployment where the Silver Dwarves think them most of need.

>>4029847
>Diplomacy: Vossiks

Seeing some slightly different figures on the other side of the river's main channel to those they last encountered, a patrol of the Golden Dwarves stops by the riverbank. Two of the Dwarves give cautious waves to these strangers, as they don't seem to be fleshy monstrosities; whilst another Dwarf pushes a Barrel full of Dwarven Mead into the channel to float it across to the strangers.

>>4029299

Driven by her eagerness to see how their new forms can perform, Nethazar pushes herself and sher broodmothers to lay as many eggs as possible. Despite their lofty ambition costing them 1/7'th of their young, it is a small price to pay for the army the Matriarch now has a vast army at her disposal. Her children are far more beautiful than she could ever have imagined, believing each of them captured her likeness perfectly even if they resembled nothing of their past selves.

Actions:
>War: Harmony
- Faced with the strange nature of this new foe, the ants rally to secure their defensive line. The generals spend countless nights devising strategies on how best to deal with the enemy, and after having studied how the enemy behaves after their skirmishes the ants believe they've devised a way. Using the forward bloomeries, large iron plates are cast with a grip on the rear end for the ants to grasp securely in their mandibles and with with the edges bending sharply to allow for the ants to stand side by side and hook their shields together in order to form a shield wall. On the face of this plate are spikes that stick a fare distance out, perfect for not only defending the ants but to bash the slimes with and even penetrate deep enough to perhaps crush their "innards". As the prototypes are developed the ants use them to hunt down the remaining slimes that have fallen behind their lines, using them as test subjects to fine-tune their design.

-The ants have made significant progress in the south, but for how long must they dig? Their direction is clear, their distance is not. In order to answer this question, the ants prepare another scouting force of Caelum. They travel again towards the same place they saw the mass of chimneys choking the skies in black soot. They fly in pairs, partners carrying their tired and rotating as needed and counting the ammount of rotations they make in a day. By sticking low to the ground, they avoid the most severe winds. After reaching their destination, they return to the bore and fly down the tunnel again and counting their rotations. When they reach the end, the ants realize there is still some distance to go, but they are close. This information reveals they are deep enough within the mountain and begin to carve the tunnel at an upwards slope The ants dig smaller, advance tunnels branching out and leading the larger one. Every few meters the ants dig, they listen closely to feel any vibrations that might rock through the earth, hoping to learn city's location.

>>4029289
1.

The Lord of Flesh seeks to protect his new client/citizens of dead flesh. Flesh monks and honor guard begin leading the Kahro of Pentagon and Nu Delta in the fortifications of the cities. Smuggled flesh from Abattoir is used in the construction of large warlike Kahro forms. The Kahro younglings in The Mausoleum are to remain, sheltered by walls and our ant allies.

2. In the Cave of the Kahro, leading out to the rivers edge, the Sable Leeches are set to roam. With Rovers to feed off of to grow, they are tasked with attacking and dwarfs that come into their range. Using the skills they picked up from restoring the Matriarch, the leeches are molded to have a simple carapace and overgrow mandibles, in the hope of aiding their defense in a drying climate and aid digging.

>Diplo

>Sable
Reports of the success against the slimes reaches Craver ears, soon the Matriarch in the Labyrinth receives requests to experiment with the inert gelatin.

>War (Assuming I'm supposed to be doing a war post)

>Ashen
>Assuming we drove them back
The Rut'ra begin digging burrows, to make any countermarch become a siege among the plains. Raut'let push further into dwarven land.

>Assuming they hold.
Limping Rut'ra return whimpering to the Flesh Mission, many with shorn limbs or shattered bone plates. The Raut'let are brought to bare in defense of Nu Delta. Kostr begin building grottos along the riverside.

>>4025129
>FHR Diplo
The Tarns are somewhat confused. These men seem to know who they are, though the Tarn have never ventured this far west. Perhaps this is simply a local custom? The Tarns respond, “Hello friends. Though you have not forgotten us, it seems we have forgotten you? Pray tell, who are you?”

>>4024979
>B’oo diplo
The Tarns have a small but growing population of plebians, people who own too little land or property to sustain themselves and thus must work for others. These are the main sort of people desperate enough to take the long and dangerous journey across the sea to B’oo territory. They come from across the country, from laconic Roodkhanians to bold, swarthy Jaakalians. Most are content so long as they receive a decent chunk of farmland to call their own. The southerners plant primarily rice, while those from the north primarily grow wheat. As time goes on, most end up growing wheat, which fares better in the land of the B’oos.

>>4025727
>Diplomacy: Tidal Empire

Dwarven Merchants of Gyldholm head to the city docks to meet with representatives of the Depaun merchant traders. They clutch rolls of fabric of all sorts, light and heavy; dyed in many colours including the new and splendid vivid shade of blue that we've just started bringing up. Perhaps these are fabrics that the Deepaun traders would be interested to make purchase of for the export market? Or even for themselves; blue does seem to be their colour...


>>4030752
>Diplomacy: Tarn

The Gyldenthrong Dwarves report to the Tarn that at the southern end of the southward-flowing river they discovered a breed of creature that looks like a person, but their attacks upon the Gnavkop line resulted in a son eaten, and a father killed whilst seeking his vengeance. The creatures are being carted away for resettlement to the north by the Ashenbeards (Gyldenthrong regulations are insisting on secure travel-cages so they do not make snacks of Dwarves on the way).

Although the creatures did not seem to match the prophecy of the Tarn's teller's warning, or at least the version that was passed to us; the Gyldenthong dwarves still offer an invitation to the Tarn (if they so wish) to join them us when we examine the site of the creature's camp. Just in case these beasts were the the things that depopulated a province, and the camp site is full of Tarnish remains.


>Diplomacy: Cewri:

For quite an age now, the Dwarves have just been letting the Giants get on with life. Live, eat, drink, work, sleep, breed. And as the Cewri have not complained, the Dwarves have been under the assumption that they've been finding life content as part of the Gyldenthrong. Nonetheless, every often it is better to check... and so the Giants are asked. Are things fine for them in Cewri'Jotregk? Is there anything they need or want that the Gyldenthrong haven't yet managed to provide?

>>4029289
Mmmhmm. Hhhhmmhhmm. Only the Garnish Ones and Dark Ones refugee accepted our invitation. But no matter; we will make do! Dark One Refugees are quick to integrate and are valuable subjects. They are studied and questioned especially the ones who lost their spouse and other loved ones. B'yogi are assigned to morph into beings similar to the ones who the Dark Ones lost and established relationships. Hopefully, this will be useful. The Garnish Ones are a little more difficult. The people that came are as different as day and night. The R'uknias are quiet and reserved while the J'akanas are full of energy, but they're most valuable on the farms. They seem content to work the land and follow our laws. It's sad we don't have more people, but one day we will bring more...

1.When the Dark Ones came, they brought news of another nation absorbing their home. We would join them to fight the enemy off, but the King didn't want to. With great concern, we must be able to fend them if they come to attack us. We will establish the Bureau of Military to truly organize our fighting forces to better
2.The Bone Mother wishes meat and we want a bit of her power to strengthen us. We will prepare a grand sacrifice of rear rabbits and a large turquoise mask as an offering to her.

>>4031070
Also, a rumor, please if allowed.

>>4030752
"We had known another people of Tarn, in the world we came from. Not this one. You are in the Free Human Remnant, and your kind are welcome here." The marines from the other ships get off their vessels, their intentionally dulled, and distinctive looking steel armor catching the eyes of some of the Tarn. Of other interest would be the seemingly odd amount of other races among the humans. Some with sharper features, others with pale gray skin and pointed ears, others, mostly female, with the pointed ears and bushy tails of dogs who were no shorter then 6 foot tall. The city itself seemed to be quite large, with large walls constantly patrolled by soldiers. Many different banners with colors and symbols adorned buildings, and looking closer some of the armor of the soldiers.

>>4029297
The Amplect Drakes shall continue to be ready, though they warn the frogs to not do anything brash as the great and mighty nation of the northern dwarves is poised to strike if the Meluz enter war on the defensive.

Action 1:
For a time now the fabled nation of the FHR has not been included in the sea routes but now with a ship good for colonization in tow we can explore their region, and perhaps come into contact with the rumored Giant Ants as well. A good excuse is indeed a good excuse and even if we don't find anything besides the men then at least we will have established a relationship with a market ripe for the trading.
>Send an expedition through FHR waters and beyond, pic related

Action 2:
For many years the depauns have only fished in the bay region, as that is where their home is. But now that they have become great they wish to raise more of their kind, especially since war could come one day plague them. Thus they set out to chart the currents and figure out the best fishing grounds, so they set out with their newly christened warship - the Bisnocer - (and the Trieneder once it returns from its journey) to find the most fertile coasts along their trade routes and around all the coast they have mapped. In the most fertile area they may set up a fishing colony which can send food back to the home sea, or perhaps they may just fish there sometimes. Only time will tell.
>search all the known coasts east of Ire and not in the region where the FHR resides for the most fertile and promising fishing grounds

>>4031036 (diplo - Gyldenthrong)
The merchants inspect the blue carpets and state:
>these are quite fine, we will not purchase all of them as we do not know if the demand is there but we will get talking to our contacts and merchants in all those nations we trade with. If we find the demand we will return and invest but if not im afraid we won't be buying to many.
The captain personally purchases one for his quarters.

>>4031070 (diplo - B'oo)
During an annual trade visit some Depauns, one of them a representative of their government ask the B'oo about the magic they have heard of which they practice. They wish to purchase writings on how it works, or - if that is not possible or would not teach them the full scope of B'oo magic - leave the representative with the B'oo in order to learn of it personally. They offer a fine discount for a good few years if the B'oo agree to sell them books and also have lots of goodies (mainly trading currency) on hand for an up front payment if its preferred.

>>4022598 (response, post initially missed)
The depauns are disappointed in how bare bones the Narsic settle was but are proud of the finding of the gemstones is something quite nice, the gems are to be kept for safekeeping in the meantime but may be sold off if need be, if they came from the lighthouse then perhaps they may have some strange properties, like how the desert temple seemed to create a strange darkness.

>>4031090 (diplo - FHR)
A ship from the civilization known as the Depauns anchors itself near New Andreth, from it diplomats fluent in Nomach Elven and B'oo proceed. They wish to set up an agreement with the FHR as they have heard of the prosperity and wealth the mighty people has to offer, for they have come with an agreement written with copies in both B'oo and Nomach, which will be translated to the language of the men soon after a relationship is established. This document outlines set trade times and clauses of mutual law abiding (with the laws of the FHR taking precedent over depaun trade law bar cases in which the nations become enemies, which the dragons mention is highly unlikely) in dealing and a service fee rate which can be negotiated for goods which are imported and exported to and from the FHR. They bring with them examples of the luxurious goods which can be bought at very respectable prices from all across the world, from peoples such as the Tarn and the Frogs which the FHR hardly know exists alongside the goods from other nations who previously costs quite a bit of coin to purchase goods from.

(Ants, Ashenbeards and Pooled Harmonics will be diplo'd with soon)

>>4031733
Rin R'tas Vay was the stationed commander of the FHRDF in New Andreth. Unfortunately for a man of his Clan, this mostly meant having to deal with paperwork. From troop requisitions to patrol reports, rumored sightings of Vossik forces entering the FHR, all of which were just enlisted Moon Elves mistaken for their eastern neighbors. It was a boring job. No drills to conduct, no patrols to go on, Hell he still needed to get a Sajaak-damned wife! So, when a Sargent ran into his office requesting immediate reinforcements to the area surrounding New Andreth, he was surprised. Apparently, strange ships had been sighed off the coast by FHRDN vessels, and last they heard, a boat was approaching shore. A Platoon would be mobilized immediately, and sent to the assumed landing point. By the time they arrived, the boat had made landfall, and the soldiers began setting up defensive postition. The Platoon leader would say the following in both Human Standard and the Vossik Trade Language: "You are currently in the sovereign territory of the Free Human Remnant! Who are you, and what is your purpose here?"

>>4031090
>FHR Diplo
The Tarns take a particular interest in the FHR soldiers armor. It seems to be made of a metal slightly darker than silver, yet far stronger and lighter. And, judging by the sheer number of people on the boat wearing this metal, the humans have a plentiful supply of the stuff as well. The expedition commander feels his hackles rise, as he feels that familiar instinct that is every Xycthans birthright stir. It screams, *There’s a profit to be made here, if you only have the courage to seize it*. He listens.
>The Tarns propose a trade deal: equal quantities of silver for steel
>Also, they will trade jewelry for gemstones.

>>4031070
>B’oo Diplo
The Tarns catch wind that the B’oo are pushing to strengthen their military and are happy to offer the services of the Roodkhaane military academy to help further the endeavor. The academy is fairly massive at this point and is more than capable of accepting additional students. In exchange, the Tarns request that the B’oo send a few of their own military instructors, both to help ease the students’ transition and to contribute new viewpoints and combat styles to the Tarnish repertoire.

>>4031036
>Gyldenthrong Diplo
The Tarns agree: this is probably not the danger that the prophecy warned of. However, that doesn’t mean such a threat should not be dealt with, and the Tarns are more than willing to assist their good friends with such an endeavor. As such, the diplomatic team the Gylden speak to are initially receptive to the proposal. However, at the mention of the Ashenbeards’ protection of the creatures, the ambassadors’ posture stiffens. The Ashenbeards are a capricious and violent lot, and the Tarns are concerned that they will use such an action as a pretext to start a confrontation. Still, so long as the Gylden are willing to provide assurances that the Grey Dwarves will not cause a fuss over Tarnish assistance, a pair of Xycthan phalanxes will be dispatched with orders to assist the Gylden with whatever they require.
In other matters, the Tarns explore whether they can trade gemstones and jewelry in exchange for finely-crafted weapons. They explain that the Tarns will provide the metal, all the Gyldenthrong have to do is craft it into swords, shields and armor.

>>4032872
The deal seems acceptable, but the methods of steel making on the other hand, are not the merchants to decide to give. If they wanted a chance at that, they would have to negotiate with either direct representatives of Clans Dzen or Varke.

>>4029847
The diplomats and their armed escort arrive in the camp, and quickly find their way to the representatives of the Vossiks. "Well, it seems that the people in there don't like you very much." He jokes. "But in all seriousness, the stability of this region is an important matter for both our nations. We have no qualms with your attempts to stabilize it, and we will not interfere, however the attempts to unify them under a monarchy could prove to incite rebels in the region."

>>4031733
Magic? B'yogi have been trying to understand this thing called "magic" for many years. They only got started knowing what "Faith". What B'yogi can do that seems magical is an extension of themselves. They apologize, but they can teach your mages a facsimile of their powers, i.e. Silent casting and creating illusions.
Of course they don't teach them how to see through B'yogi powers. We have to keep some secrets you know? They send a group of instructors to the Scale Ones and agree to the economic terms.
>>4032872
Every piece of knowledge helps B'yogi; they were excited when the Garnish Ones offered to exchange military knowledge. They agreed. B'yogi send Z'ick and A'vov, some of our best and reserved warriors of the Hunger of S'cie, and a group of curious students (in total of 30). B'yogi warns the Garnish Ones that they should let the students become butchers in the kitchens. They're still working on the bloodlust. Don't worry! They won't attack you; just animals they can catch.

>>4032888
The Tarns are happy with the deal. Soon, enormous ships dock, carrying with them vast quantities of silver and jewelry.
>You can access all of the following through our trade network
>Fur
>Meat
>Bread
>Wood
>Silver
>Copper
>Bronze
>Coal
>Iron
>Jewelry in glass and turquoise
>Shields
>Spears
>Small ships(Rare)
>Books(Rare)
>Salt(Rare)
>Gold(Luxury)
>Dwarven Ale(Rare)
>Fine Weapons(Rare)
>Sulfur(Rare)
>Turquoise(Rare)

>>4032925
>Boo Diplo
These youths are like swords, fresh from the furnace. They glow with potential, but must be tempered before they are fit to serve in battle. Since thirty is insufficient for a full phalanx, the B’oos are merged with a class of Tarns during parades and drills, and continue with them for a full four years of education. Constant drilling and teamwork exercises help to teach the youths coordination and discipline while their instructors work with the Roodkhaanians to develop tactics tailored to the B’oos particular strength. The students return after four years as an elite fighting unit, having synthesized the discipline of the Tarns and their own fighting style to create a hybrid superior to both.
As the Tarns have taught the B’oos, so too have the B’oos taught the Tarns. The B’oos are unmatched at dueling, and their one-on-one expertise is sorely needed at the academy. Even in the four short years they spend there, being picked out for individual lessons by a B’oo swordmaster becomes a highly sought after honor. While these lessons are far too involved for the average foot soldier, more basic aspects of one-on-one combat are integrated into the general curriculum. The Tarns are sad to see the B’oos go, and let’s them know that there will always be a place for them at Roodkhaane academy.

>>4032888
"The Republic agrees that ensuring stability is of paramount importance, and that it has a plan to prevent this problem in the future. The Vossaya thanks Andreth for its understanding in this matter." Replied one of the officials in the pavilion. "I think we all have more important matters than these half-assed rebels. They couldn't even put together a proper force to oppose anyone. I think your fifty men could have likely taken the entire country."

>>4033294
"There is much a group of rebels can do, after all, the seeds of the Free Human State we came from were sown in a slave revolt our long dead masters fought. It is not wise to underestimate the power that a group of people motivated by ideology can have. But, of course, that is assuming that any of the Nomach elves are willing to put up a fight at all. The Free Human Remnant would be open to accepting any Nomach who do not wish to live under the rule of those who now have legal right to this former country, and that would also mean any of those here who would plague your forces here would be in our own nation, out of your hair so to say."

>>4029184
A great road is to be constructed ranging from Aeblekag, into the Ashen Outpost and finally to Zarjotun'torzdun.
This plays a large part in making the King worthy among the people.
Where the road first starts, it would be laid in stone, being quite appealing to the eye and seeming of good quality, but this facade quickly falls when one leaves the immediate area of the settlement where the road is made more cheaply as it goes on, being that the distance is so great.
But the road will serve its purpose of allowing traders to haul wagons of supplies to Zarjotun'torzdun which is in great need.
(If Gylden wish to help with the road, change to their plans)
>Great South Road

Many battles are fought this generation.
The dwarven peoples are strong but the underworld must rest and recover so to stay as rigid as the mountain shelters above.
Dwarves all across the underworld take to crafts and taverns to lift their spirits and heal. Veterans of the war settle down at home to raise many children that will benefit from the earthly harvests not seen in by most growing up.
>Peace and Growth

---

Figures are seen violating the air.
Many are told this is a sign of bad times to come beset by Ilgiavulztod. Though not as many truly believe, it is enough to warrant the construction of weapons to combat aerial demons.
These weapons vary in design but are most commonly seen as goat-hauled wagons that unfold into wooden platforms from which catapult-like machines launch nets or chains to strike sky dwelling enemies. The second most common would be cheaper and easier to haul, but using the same wagon, they are a complex version of crossbow used by the dwarves that can fire in quick succession and is manned by a small crew.
These weapons are paraded for some time in the underworld, though given their size, they will likely never see use as they must be built in specific chambers large enough to display them and cannot be transported through the tunnels unless deconstructed.
>Odeutrkarene "Sky Killers"

A new city is built, mainly to house the many veterans and warriors seeking family.
The hopes of the Invuld are that these families will be vital the growth of warriors that will one day take up arms in their footsteps of their fathers.
This city has a distinctly different atmosphere than others considering the population. Otherwise it remains mostly the same as others in design and production, but imports of weapons and armor are noticeably higher and there are many chambers dedicated to training in the art of warfare. Additionally the Korre'jorg Grutt relocates, making this city its headquarters and main source for recruitment.
>Fadtklot'dun

>>4022895
The southern diplomats try to convince their brethren to not take up arms against the savages.
Nothing is to be gained from this. The potential to civilize these lost kin will be lost.
Besides, Grugnir's blood feud had been settled honorably. To disregard it and instead punish the whole of the emerald kin would bring great shame and dishonor to the Gylden.
If justice must be sought still, they suggest bringing the savage to trial in the underworld and decide his fate.
Though these words come only from the guild members, who can do little to stop them while officially the dwarven lords of the north do not care to meddle in this situation. What will be done will be done by the Gylden.
If the worst occurs, these diplomats will attempt to relocate as many redbeards as they can within the borders of Zarjotun'torzdun.

>>4030515
The Ashen use a simple form of crossbow powered by the belly, but it has never been produced enough to make much difference if any in past or current conflicts.
Supplies of new crossbows appreciated and hoped to make an impact both on the battlefield and the enemy.
These rock hurlers will be placed on small mounds in the grasslands surrounding Tula'krel

---

I would like to purchase your finest rumor.

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SCENE SIX

>>4029367
>FHR
The Engineering District is eager to experiment on the new material being sent from Senday. Of most import to the Flamesprayer project is a substance produced by the superheating of dry coal, and condensing the trapped vapours in water. This produces a sludge which remains flammable. Further testing into decreasing its viscosity. A side note on the substance, is that it also appears to be useful for the treating of skin-conditions, though this angle is perhaps of far less importance to the Daiimad. The construction of tanks however is less exciting, taking sheets of this new rolled metal, shaping is relatively easy. A single sheet can be hammered around a mould. Closing up the tanks is more difficult, though work has started on the fabrication of a more intricate piece which may be later crimped or otherwise fixed in place.
A nationwide search confirms initial suspicions, only those whose holy matters include a strong focus on Snevi, goddess of magic after all, show a proclivity for its use. On the matter of foci, it is found that 'arcing' primarily occurs around other metal objects in the open air within roughly a yard, and anything connected to the ground within roughly a foot around the focusing rod itself, excluding the caster. The addition of a wooden or leather case, save the ends and a place to grip, shows promise. These 'covered foci' show to only ever arc forwards, reducing accidents at the price of accuracy. For now.

>>4029847
>Vossik
Left with little choice, the Assembly surrenders to the Vossik forces. Under guard a small contingent journeys to the Church of Konyu nearby, ringing the bells to signal to their people that they have lost. Tearful Dark Elves spill into the street, though a quick count shows that the city had at least halved in size since the split. Life slowly began to recommence under Elezen rule, with resentment under the surface which thankfully never boiled over. That is, until the Hacmosi Inquisition. Traditional Nomachian art depicted Konyu in two forms, the first as a solar disk rising over mountains, and the second later form as a statuesque Dark Elf with an eye of gold and an eye of silver. These were deemed heretical idols by the Inquisition, and those which could not be hidden, transported, or sold were destroyed. Hundreds, if not thousands, of religious paintings, statuary, relics, and the like are destroyed, hundreds of years of cultural development, gone. So it is the way of things. With the iconoclasm came persecution, and those who refused even to use the Elezen name of their shared God were tortured, exiled, or killed. Riots flared in Oldek & sometimes even Pokos, though they are easily quashed by the presence of the Vossik military. Those who had been branded Aan, sometimes literally, faced further humiliation when they are stripped of their remaining rights, and their homes taken or demolished.

>Vossik cont.
Many of these outcasts turned to banditry, in the eastern woods and northern hills, where the Elezen hand was less heavy.
There was now the issue of the Henge of Konyukozo, which showed definitively that some higher or lower power bestowed gifts upon the faithful there, manifesting as healing abilities.

>>4029874
>Tarn
[R] It is the autumn equinox, the time to initiate new priestesses into the cult of Persa. As part of the ceremony the girls must ring a series of bells, one whilst lying down flat on their bellies, one whilst kneeling, and one whilst standing, and then again going down, symbolising the rising and setting of the sun. But one girl confuses the temple when she somehow rings the great bell, used to call the people to prayer. When asked how and what she had done, she proclaimed "I sought only to ring the highest bell." News of her ability is kept quiet with only the priesthood, and later the arcane researchers, knowing.
[NM] Weighed down heavily by the embroidered cloak of the Augur, the boy is miserable. Gone is his rebellious streak, he longs only to return to the playground, but deep within himself he knows that this is his place. He is blessed, and cursed, to be the vessel of the Augursoul. And now he must prove himself, he is asked to give his first prophecy. The boy feels in his being the presence of those before him, this gives him peace, in part. He inhales the heady incense and speaks in a voice beyond his years: "Break the stone, break the spirit / Cast it down unto the sea. / For only anger dwell within it / And never shall it be appeased." Afterwards he falls silent, and rests for thirty days.
Tin is quickly brought into use, mostly as an alloy for bronze, and later as pewter. Bronze is used to produce additional armour for those who cannot afford iron, as well as in artistic fields. Statuettes cast using the lost-wax method become increasingly popular for their ability to capture tiny details in both bronze and pewter, though the latter sees far more use as dinnerware. No Tarnic home is complete without an idol of B'ikka and at least one pewter mug and dish.
With the best minds on the job, the Tarn must surely find something! Yet the arcane arts continue to elude them. Save of course, for augury. A small portion of the population have always possessed some spark of divination, though mostly for personal matters, of little use to the state. Hence the importance of the Augursoul. That is until the researchers are learnt of the initiate priestess of Persa.

>>4030308
>Meluzina
Drills and exercise missions are run, focussing on aspects which best suit the Meluz. Their base within the drainage pipes of the Soghoians is completed in record time, though it is far from a comfortable living space. On odd occasions foul smelling grey-water flushes waist deep through the system, inspection shows it primarily to be swamp-water & algae, and thankfully not waste-matter. There is a small scare when voices are heard in the pipes, but investigation finds them to be carried from a grate, leading to a back-street aboveground.

>>4030407
>Llychlyn
A small mix-up in papers finds Eheubryd believing the Blessèd Forge to only be near completion, when in reality the place requires only to be stocked with raw material. Eventually word is sent, asking for the Queen to open the forge, and for her blessing on upcoming projects.
The crew sail eastwards after following their island, and after a long voyage make landfall on a seemingly uninhabited patch of forest on the mainland. The trees here are broad, tall, and of a different species to any back home. Hunting is scarce, with only a small number of meagrely sized birds. Foraging is difficult also, not knowing what is and is not edible. What the Children had taken for grapes had been a poisonous plant, and those who had eaten the berries would vomit profusely (it's pokeweed). There must be some process to making these horrid things tolerable that the sea peoples know. After taking a little of what can be found, the journey recommences northwards, up the Gylden coast. Though they see no boats, the further they travel, the more signs of habitation they find, first a handful of loggers, and then more noticeably, the lapis mine of the Dwarves. (>4030515 Llychlyn sailing up your coast, their boat is made of the same purple-hued wood of the remnant that washed ashore)

>>4030515
>Gyldenthrong
[D] After the heatwave & drought, came terrible rains which overfilled the rivers, and bruised the golden fruit that had survived the heat. These can be managed, but more terrible luck came. Rockfalls from the sides of the steep Dukkezop Pass blocked the way entirely, with more damaging outlying parishes of Dukkezop proper. Until it is cleared, trade with the eastern kingdoms becomes far more difficult, and perhaps more importantly, costly. (>>4029874 probably effects you too)
Gylden march into the southern woods, in hopes of destroying the murderous creatures there within. The entire forest is searched methodically, any sign of the infestation torn apart. Besides these occasional clearings, nothing is found, the forest is clear of the things. With the Redcaps removed by the Ashen, Lowland Dwarves claim the land, though logging camps set up often house as many guards as workers.
Dwarves sent to claim the south do so under heavy guard, and with great anxiety. It is claimed that the Redcaps are gone, but there is still worry they had simply fled further afield. This fear proves unfounded.

>Gylden cont.
The Gylden had always preferred a good heavy axe or pike to the bow, but with the expanding knowledge of the world, it is deemed necessary to improve their ranged combat abilities. It is a slow process of iteration and minute advances, though the effort is well worth it. Two forms are created, a belly-spanning weapon and a cranking weapon, the former being easier to produce, the latter being more powerful.

>>4030527
>Sable
The Slimes cannot easily dissolve the iron shields, and with enough effort, the great mass of sprawling slime may be pushed back out of the sands. However doing so does begin to wear the metal down, pitting the metal severely, even wearing completely through in some cases. But the ooze is gone, and the small amounts that remain are salted and left to become little more than a nasty stain. Some of this residue is scooped onto a shield and sent to the Flesh Mission for study. Even dead the goo remains acidic enough to digest the iron shield. (>>4030621).
With the help of the Caelum, the ants begin their ascent. The stone is dug & cut much smaller, so that it may be carried out of the way. However minor inaccuracies mount, and the Ants are not directly on target, instead finding themselves beneath one of the highway-tunnels of the Dwarves. They have dug close enough now that they here Dwarves marching about, hollering and singing their bawdy songs, day and night. In fact, the constant activity proves how close they really are, and the ceiling of the Ants tunnel gives way! They find themselves in a dusty back-storage room or basement, crammed with barrels and crates which seem to have not been touched in a long time. (>>4033534)

>>4030621
>Cravers
These new Mega-Kahro are slow, in body and mind, but capable and willing to destroy whatever comes against them. The Leeches however do not find a way to Dwarven lands but instead a cave of mushrooms, and with them a single massive creature. (see DMs) Even the stupid Hirudos steer clear of the Cree-beast, even as it slowly kills & devours their Rovers.
(war post eventually, I promise, I'm just hitting a war-block at present)

>>4031070
>B'yogi
[R] The H'yumi traders say they've talked with the H'yumis in the north, even before we did! They must only like other H'yumis. Perhaps if we looked like them, they would trade with us?
The Dark Elves are split on the issue of the B'oos shape-shifting. The vast majority find it creepy, uncanny, even disrespectful, but their are those who find a fleeting comfort in it. Like seeing a passed love one in a dream, when you wake you know it is not real, but you are warmed by it nonetheless.
The B'yogi military had for the longest time been a rag-tag bunch with little discipline, but over the course of a generation, they have been beaten into shape. This is further solidified by the creation of Military Bureau, copied somewhat off the FHR, who the Watchers find great interest in.

>B'yogi cont.
The Bone Mother accepts the sacrifice, dissolving even the turquoise. When the pool clears, she is coated completely in turquoise scales, whilst remaining skeletal. She is beautiful! At dusk, she slithers from her pool into the great sea, and when she returns at dawn, there stands in her temple, the remains of a gold chariot. The wood is rotten, and the horses still lashed are bones, but it is a wonderful gift.

>>4031729
>Tidal
(I think FHR's response is sufficient for your first action)
All in all, two areas show the greatest potential for fishing. The first being the lower Sea of Glyndon, the waters of the Golden Dwarves, with great shoals stretching further west than they have ever travelled. The second is the Tirod Bay, shielded by the Mare's Tail desert. Places for both cold- and warm- water fish, expanding the national palette a great deal.
The gems fit neatly into the fire-dish, and once they are all set the dish feels hot to the touch. When fuel is placed within it, it ignites! Without any spark or flame to start it.

>>4033534
>Ashbeards
[R] Scouts have reported that the Ants to the north have been constructing a wall between us and them. This would be of little interest, save the fact the stone appears to be of mountain-granite. Our, mountain-granite.
The Great South Road begins as a fine stone one, bridging the river with a beautiful wooden bridge of Gylden design, before entering the southern forests and becoming little more than a dirt track for which every expense is spared. It then curves along the more navigable valleys of the hilly terrain, before winding its way to Zarjotun. In the north, the sighting of creatures in the sky, and the siege developments shared from the south, spur the construction of great weapons, a favourite whenever they are paraded. With war, comes the weary, and for these retired warriors the new city of Fadtklot'dun is built in the eastern hills, the first of its kind, to ease the aching bones of the older Dwarves. It is also a place where the Dwarves may show off some to their vassal state, the Meluz, as they build another of their Sky-Killers here.

DIPLO
>>4031036
Papa had taken a turn after the visit of the Tarn-men, one to which the other Giants believe he will not recover. They do not blame the Tarn, their ignorance is not their fault. In his place, his nephew? (the Gylden are not totally sure) takes his place as the head of the clan. "You have built for us a home, and fed us bread & ale, when all we had to offer is plains-rat. You have taught us your tongue, and all manner of things, to which we were blind. Now you ask what more you can do for us? We ask only that the Cewri and the Gylden remain friends." The nephew, the Gylden called Jotte, for the Giants did not have names of their own. Jotte was a calm soul, with a unique talent to solve most any issue or complaint. He was a full head taller than the next tallest Giant, hence the name. "Soon we will take Papa to rest. We wish it not to be a great to-do, allow us peace in the matter. I know Papa was well-acquainted with a Dwarf by the name of Snorri, he would be pleased to talk with him, one last time."

END OF SCENE SIX.

>>4034475
Turn 1: Ships
The fast growing western trade routes produces another renaissance in a Tarnish shipbuilding. This time, the chief advances come in the form of further increased size and cargo capacity. The previous tusker haulers grow even longer and deeper, now supremely built for extended time at sea. The tuskers within drive an enormous wheel, which pushes the ship along even in becalmed water. A typical trade mission for one of these ships might encompass the whole arc of the western continent, trading with the Vossiks, then the B’oo, and finally the FHS all in one go before returning to port. Needless to say, an enormous cargo space is absolutely necessary. These ships do have a problem, however. They are simply too large to make the trip up the Jaakal River and across to Gylholm. Building in Gyldholm, however, requires depending on faraway sources of wood without any idea whether sufficient quantities would be available in order to complete the whole build.To solve this problem, ship-builders pioneer the formation of what they call “build-scripts”. These enormous manuscripts contain detailed drawings and instructions for building a full-size ship. Using these, Tarns can plan and ship quantities of pre-made wood to Gyldholm port, then build the ship at the drydocks there.
Turn 2: Magic
The magical researchers hurried to the site of this miracle, eager to interview and dissect all involved. However, by the time they reach the Temple of Persa, all signs of the event have disappeared. No one they meet even recalls the little girl existing in the first place. Suspicious, but lacking concrete evidence of deception, the Xycthan researchers must return home defeated.
Meanwhile, the head priestess has taken the little girl, as well as her entire cohort, deep within the Temple catacombs. She produces a small bell from her vestments and holds it towards the little girl.
“Don’t be afraid, child. Show us your gift.”
>The priestesses of Persa set up a secret magical academy beneath their holy temple. This runs in parallel and often contrary to the Xycthan research efforts.

>>4031036
The Gyldenthrong are contacted by the Tarns, offering a statement of condolences about the tragedy at Dunnzekopp. Though they have no resources this Tyrn to spare, they plan on helping clear the landslide next Tyrn, as well as conducting geological surveys to ensue this never happens again.
>Also
Though their supply of trade goods to the west has been heavily constrained, the Tarnish merchants still need to find something to sell overseas. They offer to purchase a great quantity of the Gyldenthrong’s fine rugs in exchange for gemstones like garnets and turquoise.

>>4034472
1. In a turn of events, the Daiimad chooses to focus on economic reforms, this includes tax breaks for merchants who do their business inside the FHR,and other such things*

2. Research continues on the Foci. As it turns out, the longer the Foci is, in addition to all previous enhancements, the more accurate, focused and powerful the bolt is, in addition to decreasing the chance of Arcing. In addition, some old handgonnes which were found too rusted to be repaired, but with wooden stocks still usable are modified to have Foci rods slid into them, and are then finally secured by both friction and straps. They are still experimental, but the balance of weight and ergonomics seem to be worth it alone.

>>4034478

The voyage, despite the mistake of taking the berry believed to be grape and consuming it without proper care. Clearly these 'grapes' are something that needs to be prepared before eating, similarly to meat, or some fish as it has been found. Regardless, luckily if it was poisonous without proper preparation, it wasn't deadly with the amounts ingested. It was a shame that the forests they landed on were mostly devoid of life. Maybe they could change that if they set up some sort of port outpost there in the future? But that was for the future, and for Brenhinol clans other than Llewelyn to decide on. After all, Llewelyn already had a city of their own practically. Still, they had found a land in the south, and found people there. Though they didn't interact with them. Instead, they'd start to sail for home, as while they certainly had the supplies to stay out for longer on the waves, they wished to have their first successful journey be a swift one, to confirm that lands not that far away existed. Once they returned to Lunedannedd, they could set off again to the north, and aim to find where the people who first visited them were from, after some rest and celebration on the first successful voyage of course.

Meanwhile, in Allfshys, Eheubryd would be quite pleased that the forge is finished. With this minor issue out of the way and the forge fully operational, she would give the word to officially properly open it, so clan Nist may do their holy work. Now, instead of blessed pickaxes of which there practically was an over saturation of, they would work on other tools, baubles, weapons and armor. Eheubryd's next project meanwhile would be that statue she had been planning, getting the proper work ready. She would expect the project to take some time, but that was fine. After all, a monument should have a certain level of quality. While this happened, Clan Wynn, working with the newest Brenhinol clan, Clan Nist, would work on a project. One for a proper war bow. While the bows the hunters used commonly were often times good enough, making a bow made to punch through thick leather and maybe even iron plate would be good, and with Blessed steel arrowheads it should be possible. Regardless, this too would likely take some time, and lead to the creation of a bow over seven feet tall with a very, very heavy draw weight.

>Action One. Start construction of a statue in Lunedannedd, the same one that Eheubryd planned to make some months ago. The statue would be fairly large, and it would be a nice monument for those who has passed.

>Action Two. Start testing of a special bow for war, long with a powerful draw strength. A number of tests would be made, but it is likely it would take some time before they would be able to have a chance to punch through iron.

>>4034472

>>4030407
>Diplomacy: Lychlyn

The purple-hulled boats are seen, and waved to as they pass along the Gylden coast; if they pull close to shore then Dwarves will come out to meet them, many wary, and some on the back of bristling decorated Boars as they stare down in fine steeled armour, but some come forward with foods and ales to meet and greet this new group of strangers.


>>4034625
>Diplomacy: Tarn

The statement of the condolences is received with thanks, and the offer of help is appreciated. As are these gemstones for trades.


>>4033537
>Diplomacy: Ashenbeards

With the Red-beard savages being relocated to lands deep within the Ashen borders, the Gylden are satisfied - whilst they don't want to share a border with these Dwarf-eating creatures, if the Ashenbeards can keep them gainfully elsewhere they are welcome to do so. A trial in the underworld would certainly appease the remainder of the Gnavkop line, but most golden Dwarves are just happy these beasts are gone and won't push it further.


>>4034482
>Diplomacy: Cewri

Snorri Søvnighelm, his golden beard bleached through with white and his face creased with age-wrinkles, makes his way through the town to see his friend one final time, a barrel of the Gylden Ichor saved for years in the hope of a special occasion carried by an assistant. Snorri will share drink with his friend, and gladly talk with Papa about all the many subjects of the world.

>>4035493
The dwarves call for their ally to send additional troops to aid in defense of the north.
If the beasts are to move south, they will be ever closer to the Ashen capital, and eventually the lowlands. This cannot happen.

>>4034481
(Odeutrkarene aren't massive siege engines, mind you. It's an average or above average sized wagon depending on type.)

>>4035476
Months have passed since the initial landing of the FHR on the Children of Fanw's island, and in the meantime a second group has made it's way, landing near the camp of the first. It includes more soldiers, but also merchants, and more diplomats. The Diplomats ask if their small encampment could be turned into a formal embassy to further relations between the FHR and the Children. Meanwhile, a few units on the military side of things are "Foci-Troopers", who wield magics to make up a new form of ranged combat, which is a new revelation to those who had been on the island for so long.

>>4035459
fuck, that * isn't supposed to be there.

>>4034472

>Action 1: Passing On

Kargun Grunguld wakes to find himself Thane of Dukkezop, his father Thane Grungan killed in the pass by a fall of rocks that now sits to block the passage. Clearing the passageway is expected to be straightforward, if not easy - but many traders and merchants sit idle until it is done, and an idle Dwarf has hands in need of filling; but the Tarn have also offered their help. When asked of his father's body, he is told it has not yet been recovered. "Then if the pass will not give up my father, then the pass will become my father." he proclaims. And so it is ordered.

Work gets underway on clearing the pass as plans are drawn up for how the cleared pass will be re-shaped by the wealth of Dukkezop. From the rock of the sides of the pass, Thane Kargun will have two colossal Dwarven figures carved, one on either side, looking out down the pass toward the Golden light as it first touches them. The helms of each will contain watchposts manned by Dukkezop guards, so that Dukkezop may watch over comings and goings and grant the route some measure of protection from any who might try to practice banditry within it, but this is only a secondary function. For as their true purpose, both will be built as Golaetur'kot. One will be his father's image, to bear his soul-bones no matter if or not the body is recovered from the slope; and the other will be his own carved image, for someday he too will pass, and be interred inside to watch the pass forever.

>>4035632

After a long time, there would be some surprise at the arrival of more of the Seapeoples, or those from the Free Human Remnant as those who commonly interacted with them knew them as. When they asked if they could create a formal embassy at their encampment, Meilir would explain that he was not of high enough standing to actually allow such a thing as it was outside of his responsibilities, simply being the leader of the small town rather than the whole nation. However, he'd obviously send a letter to the Patriarch and Matriarch of his clan and hopefully, they would come back with something sooner rather than later...

Two weeks would pass before someone would come to the humans. A particularly tall Child of Fanw dressed in particularly regal looking attire with red hair and amber eyes with a blade in a sheath at their side, despite their clothing. They'd be accompanied by Ten guards, all Meistri Rhyfel. They'd approach and clearly desire a diplomat of some sort to come forth, and once one did so they would introduce themselves, stating "I am Blodwyn of Clan Cadigan, sister of Eheubryd, Queen of Llychlyn. I heard more of you have come and desire to create an embassy here. Is that correct? If not, I do still wish to engage in some conversation and potentially trade."

File: Snake Containment Protocalls.png (26 KB, 504x472)

26 KB PNG

Action 1:
Enforce Stricter Fishing Rights:
For many years the Tirod Bay has been fished in by Jackelopes, Frogs and Depauns. And now it is also fished in by the Meluz as well but due to the adversarial actions taken by the Meluz against enriching concepts such as "free trade" and "Respecting the Frogs" the Depaun government, more specifically the Amplect Dragons who run it have decided that establishing proper areas of fishing rights is something which is required, especially ever since the Meluz colonized areas of the Mare's Tail which were first explored and mapped by the Depauns many years ago. The Depauns have sent their terms and are hoping that the Meluz agree to these most generous terms with expediency.
In order to properly enforce these claims the Depauns have sent colonists in to claim the end of the Mare's tail, setting up a few key villages and a few outposts inland in order to make sure the snakes stay on their land.
>Colonize the end of the mare's tail (pic related, definite colonizations marked with blue and the stretch goal circled in red)
(diplo - Soghoia)
The Dragons wish to set up (pic related) as a zone where neither dragon nor frog may fish, while outside of that zone the meluz are not allowed to fish in order to stop meluz fishermen from aggressively fishing in the fertile bay.

>>4030308 (diplo - Meluzina)
An ambassador arrives in Megalo from the Tidal Empire via the river through Soghoia, he is a Dragon, a member of Amplect, the ruling clan of the Tidal Empire. He brings a set of terms related to fishing in Tirod Bay. They desire to set up exclusive zones where Meluz and Depaun fishermen (along with the Soghoians who will have the usual no restrictions relationship with the depauns in their zone) can fish exclusively, he states that this is due to the depauns not wanting a fishing conflict to start a war. (the zone is outlined in the pic)

Action 2: ( >>4032925 )
After a good while of studying B'oo magic the Dragons who learned of B'oo magic return. Their is thus a well funded attempt to replicate this magic with the hope of one day adapting it for widespread use.
>the B'oo arts of Silent casting and creating illusions are studied and are attempting to be replicated

>>4034472

>Action 2: Steeling for War
With the secrets of Steel long learned from the Ashenbeards, the Dwarven smiths of the Aster forge work hard to better equip the warriors of the Gyldenthrong with Steel armaments, and make new designs of protective Armour to keep Dwarves safe from these monstrous foes it is rumored we are about to face. For the Golden Dwarves are marching to war, to dig in as defense against these monsters that so assail our northern kin. Lowland Dwarves begin the long march up the road to Aeuntirgarden, bringing with them weapons and provisions - along with a small stopped pouch of Gylden Ichor for every warrior, to be drunk upon the eve of battle.


>>4035587
>Diplomacy: Ashenbeards

The Ashenbeards are told that we have heard their request; and the Gyldenthrong comes to their defence.
>>4030308
>>4031729
>>4032872
>Diplomacy: Meluzina, Tarn and Tidal Empire

The threat of the northern monsters worries the Gyldenthrong greatly. And although contact with the Meluzina has been limited, the Golden Dwarves know them as a young race, more limited then the established neighbors that surround them. With the monsters on their doorstep, they are judged most at risk, and with the Silver Dwarves beset it is likely an attack will fall sooner or later. Therefore, the Gyldenthrong approach the Meluzina, and invite along representatives of Tarnish and Deepaun who trade their sword for coin. The Gyldenthrong are willing to provide subsidy for the Meluz to hire themselves mercenaries to stand against the monsters of the north alongside them... as it is not expected the Meluz will be able to keep themselves out of the fighting.

>>4035714
A man clad in light plate approaches. "I am Lieutenant Falden Vay, Cousin to Makaan Vay-Sah the third, Leader of all of Clan Vay, descendant of the God Vaygr. We of Clan Vay do wish to establish a embassy in your lands. We of the Free Human Remnant believe at in times as these, it is good to have diplomatic ties with many around us. I believe the people of this village are familiar with our people, and even my own Wife, whom is.....similar to your own people. They have had, as far as I have been told, a positive experience with our people."
Meanwhile, the other ships began unloading supplies and other such things.

>>4035746
Blodwyn would give a nod and say "It is good to meet you then, Falden. I am glad that the people here have treated you well. I presume your wife is the one who managed to help set up communication and was the one Meilir was fond of. He said that she reminds him of his daughter whom passed many years ago while she was far too young. But let us move on from this small talk for now. Both of us are here for business after all. Seeing how I am the third highest authority of Llychlyn, only under my sister Eheubryd and Fanw herself. I will allow you to make an embassy along these shores, and if you so wish, would be willing to have some of the locals create a port here for ease of transport and trade. Additionally, I have two questions for you. Firstly, what exactly do you mean by descendant of the god Vaygr? Did he create your people or are you a direct decedent? And secondly, how high quality is your armor and blades and what might I be able to give to convince you to give me a few suits and axes or swords? Of course, I don't expect the armor to fit any of us. I merely want to see how it fairs compared to our own armor and arms. We have only recently started exploring the lands across the sea, and would like a good standard for how high quality our own metal is compared to yours. I can understand if you are unwilling to trade any of it to us however, and don't blame you if that is what you decide. At the very least, I would like some of the grapes I believe they were called that makes your wine."

>>4035790
Falden is glad the request for an embassy of Clan Vay was accepted. "To know of our lineage is to know of the history of Clan Vay itself. Come, sit down, it is a history lesson of decent length." After the two are seated, he begins.
"Many years ago, at least, hmm, around 1,800 years, humanity existed in another world. At that time, we were not unified, a group of dis-unified tribes, villages, and a single actual city. The Vay of that time were a band of raiders and mercenaries, loosely unified in the belief in one of the Gods of the Pantheon of Humanity, Vaygr. One night, Vaygr himself came down from the heavens in the flesh, and took a wife. It was then that the Family of the Vay-Sah was created. Ever since then, the Clan has been lead by the direct descendants of the God we have chosen to worship. As for weapons and armor, it's quality is of no question, the armor is Sturdy and it's design tempered in our own civil war, and weaponry is of similar make. As for it's apperance, well, that depends on what other Clan is manufacturing it. If you would like a personal set, I would recommend to commission it from the masterful artisan-smiths of the advanced Clan Varke, those of whom at our height created great weapons of war and feats of engineering. If you wanted a lot of armor made quickly with little regard to complex aesthetics, then Clan Dzen. Their forges can make a dozen battle ready swords in under an hour. As for payment, Dzen could be paid in resources equivalent to what is being used and then some, or Silver coin. As for Varke, they also accept technologies they do not already have. A port would also be a welcome addition for our little section of the island."

>>4033301
"If they wish to live in Andreth that is their decision. The Republic has no qualms about the movement of peoples but we will not force them to leave from either the Republic or from the Kingdom of Nomach. Our primary concern is one that is likely to be shared by your own nation. The issues of banditry and outlaws that may move between borders or launch raids regardless of territorial lines. If and when these marauders arise it should be a joint force that handles them. It would do well for both of our peoples to see that they will find no purchase or allies in the West."

>>4030515
It is some time before there is a response from the new regime in Pokos. The response is a simple one. A barrel of Vossik barley wine is floated back over. Strong, almost spicy, and packing a punch. The dwarves might even like its more exotic taste.

>>4035845
"I find it hard to believe that a group of idle thugs and highwaymen would be given any sort of actual support by any power that exists. However, what does lie to the west? The FHR has been concerned with internal matters, so exploration has taken a seat to the side."

>>4035719
>Diplo: Tidal
"And who's to say we can't negotiate a little?" Asks the Rattler representative, who has come to meet the tidal ambassador in person. "This Tirod Bay, as you've called it," she acknowledges the name as though she's never heard it before. Truthfully, she hasn't. "Why would there be any conflicts? We would be out there to claim food, yes? The food would be fish, not anything that lies between fish and land animal." She goes on, about how this might be an opportunity to bring both the Meluz and the Soghoians together in the form of hunting sport, and not as the Soghoians had assumed initially, predators and prey.

>>4035737
Diplo: Golden Dwarves
The curious ambassador asks the gyldenthrong what find of subsidy they had in mind. As well as how many we would need to send. First, in order to help immediately, we decide to send over some venom supplies. The ambassador thoroughly explains how it works. (Will send venom this turn. Tomorrow morning, for me. It's getting late. Sorry if wording was bad.)

>>4035820
Blodwyn would seem to be surprised to hear that humanity, or at least their ancestors, came from another world. They'd be quite visible in their shock but would remain silent and the initial surprise would slowly fade until Falden was finished speaking. Once he was done, she'd say "I see...Fanw herself came from elsewhere, we do not know exactly where just that it was a place with others similar to herself, perhaps other gods and goddesses. But, a calamity came to that world and she was forced to leave before she found our ancestors...They were a primitive people, using but spears and their strength to take down prey in melee rather than at range, and they were struggling, our ancient kin dying out. Fanw however taught them the art of the bow, bestowed her blessings, treated them well, and helped them survive and thrive. She saw our ancestors as if they were her own blood, and even now protects us and guides us. However, when our ancestors started to thrive, she let us go our own path without as much direct guidance. Eventually, the first clan, Clan Howell, had a major disagreement and split in half, the ones who split off becoming Clan Tudor. And soon after many clans, major and minor had formed, but we were disunified, until a young huntress of Clan Cadigan, my mother, was bestowed by Fanw a holy bow, and given the task to unify the clans, which she did with time and effort. And trust me, even as a child I saw that the past still left scars on some clans, old rivalries still flaring. But, due to her leadership she managed to stop blood feuds between clans... I wonder, what happened to the other world your ancestors were from..." As she spoke she got more comfortable and after a slight pause would add "As for armor and weapons, I simply was asking if you had any spares. Again, I don't need anything made to fit me or any of my soldiers. I simply wish to have a few weapons and armor to see how good they are compared to our own. If I was to get armor from the other clans of your people, I likely would get that of the best quality rather than that with fancy frivolous designs. Though, I'm sure my sister would love to see such works, she has a sort of fascination with aesthetics, her greatest work thus far being the Eglwys fawreddog y ffyddloniaid, though she did have some assistance with it. I know full well her infrastructure projects, and all of them have a great deal of aesthetics to them, its just surprising how she doesn't sacrifice function on some of them. Still, I digress. A port can be made for you sometime in the near future. Next Summer the latest. Eheubryd is currently spending resources on a monument to those who lost their lives and those who worked on destroying the Fanw Forsaken place under the southern ice, so it might be later rather than sooner that I can allocate resources to create a port for you."

>>4032844 (diplo - FHR)
The dragons look at eachother, perhaps due to confusion. The Dragons then utter things in other languages, one of them very close to the Vossik Trade language. Seeing this lack of mutual language sharing they take out a map outlining some of the FHR coast but also many other regions in the south and east currently unknown to the FHR, the dragon then traces his hand from the eastern islands around the southern tip and up through a kingdom marked in yellow, he then takes some coins out (the parenthesis used here are for means of brevity and contains information not necessarily known by the men, these coins are dwarven coins from the lowlands) and puts them down, he then does the same to (the elven coast) with some more coins and the B'oo coast with some B'ooish currency. After this he goes to the FHR and picks up all the coins placed down, putting them in a satchel and putting the satchel down. He then points to an object laying about the area, a small boat on the coast, the kind used for leisure by citizens on an off day and he pushes the bag forward, pointing to the boat and then back to the bag. After this he takes out some...thing, some sort of dried up fish like thing and puts it down, pulling the money satchel back and pushing the food item towards the captain. After this he takes it all back and puts it away.
After this interesting display he states some things in the vossik like language, a list it seems and one of them pops out to the commander. The word had its roots in the relations between the two kinds of elves and described those who would exchange gifts between the two similar people. But after years of use it had been adapted to be used as a word for gift bearers, or sometimes - merchants.
One of the guard dragons, who had been standing diligently, weapon in hand looks beyond the three at the front and taps the shoulder of the one at the front. After a small exchange between the two the one at the front readjusts his wings a bit, loosening his posture to be less stern and less threatening in composure. He says a few things in one of his non-native tongues and yet another word pops up, "tarn". That was the word by which the strange men from the east called themselves by who are in the port called themselves, he points to the ship docked in the bay, the tarnish ship. His face contorts itself into a sort of smile, though clearly not one which would naturally show happiness among his kind.

>>4035879
"The......old world also....suffered....from disaster. Huh. Interesting. So I suppose that at least the Vay family line and your own people have a bit of something in common then. And the bow? Interesting. We primarily utilize crossbows, and we used to utilize firearms as far as the FHR goes with ranged weaponry. We do not have any armor or weaponry to spare. It is all property of the Free Human State, and we cannot just give it away, though again, the quality of both is more or less the same, though your sister would have loved the old Free Human State if her tastes do lie in aesthetics, we used to have marvelous looking buildings, ships, even flying machines called airships. We have become a bit more, pragmatic, in many aspects, but, I can see what we can do when it comes to acquiring samples." He talks a bit about their weapons and armor, its aspects, why it was created as it is, and other such things. "Before I move on however, what place in the ice?"

>>4035887
The Sargent of the platoon of troops is very confused. He sent runners off to the city to get actual diplomats for whatever this. He then overhears one, single word. "Tarn? How do you know of the People of Tarn?" He speaks in the trade language.

>>4035939
Blodwyn would seem curios as he spoke of a few strange things, which would lead her to ask "What exactly is a cross bow? Is it some sort of bow that has a box to help hold the arrow or something like that? Or is the cross part of the name related to its creator rather than the bow itself. I also wish to know what these so called fire arms are...Still, from the sounds of things, you would be right to say my sister would have loved being there if it had all you say it did. As for that place in the ice..." She'd pause for a bit speaking, a clear seriousness in her tone "The town of Lunedannedd was plagued with a strange grinding noise of metal in the night, a horrible sound that kept many awake from what I heard. Many were afraid to even go out in the night...A fair distance to the south was strange ruins of a unnatural black stone that had no marks of carvings, as if it was created as it was without any hands. An expedition stumbled upon it after a member of Clan Howell was unlucky enough to step on the entrance which was covered in ice. He fell to his death, however the people of the expedition didn't desire to leave his body down there. So, the shortest pathfinder of Clan Llewelyn was roped down a distance before the rope snapped and snared a member of Clan Wynn into the pit, resulting in two dead and one trapped...Then, the grinding noise started up, and grew closer. Yet, the pathfinder of Clan Llewelyn took up the shield and axe of the Clan Wynn guard and started to sing. Soon, the others joined, and the noise started to go away. Two still on the surface left to get others to help them out, and...they did. But, the expedition entered the ruins and...I don't know what happened to them in there, but months after, they came out, carrying their dead, the survivors suffering from malnutrition and the curse that place leaves on the mind. All I know is that to them, a day passed, and the member from Clan Tudor had...visions. Once he returned to the safety of Lunedannedd, he took a journal and wrote frantically, spending almost every moment writing, even at the cost of his health until he passed. Apparently he saw...horrible visions of monsters destroying Allfshys. Other than that, the only thing that could be really made out from the writing is his belief that the place needed to be destroyed at all costs. And, even Fanw herself spoke to my sister, directly even, that it was forsaken by her. The strange thing is, Fanw never did such a thing to anyone before...except my mother. Regardless, the place was resilient to normal pickaxes, but we managed to, Fanw willing, destroy that place with pickaxes which were blessed, made by a Teulu Clan, Clan Nist with Clan Howell's help. A number more people have died from the place, and it degraded ones mental health to the point they would often die of sudden heart attack from visions or even kill themselves. But we managed to destroy the place completely."

Posted on behalf of the B'yogi

>>4034472
The Bone Mother has become even more exquisite after gilding herself with turquoise. She must be very please with us since she gifts this strange gold chariot. Though it's in poor condition, in time we can restore it to its former glory.
Hmm, it seems the Dark Ones are a bit weary of our morphing abilities though some have taken to liking it.
Ah, Z'ick and A'vov and their students have return from study with the Garnish Ones. It seems they're even more discipline. We will apply their experience in the future to all of our military branches.

1.The Golden Chariot, nicknamed H'bapi's Taskmaster, is sent to Insight to be research in full. The Bone Mother gave it to us for a reason and we will find the reason. Hopefully, we will find ways to restore it.
2.The H'yomis are settling quite nicely, but the Dark Ones are right about one thing. Our morphing is not perfect and if we want to interact with more unhinged races then we must get better. We will study the H'yomi physiology of the ones we know even in more detail to better our morphing.

>>4034478

>1: start producing venom for the gyldenthrong's war effort

>2: animal husbandry
Out on the plains, there are many living creatures. We've noticed that our dwarven friends were able to tame goats, of all things. Not to mention, they produced milk. In an effort to accomplish a similar goal, we scour the plains, looking for beasts to tame.

>>4036453

>flavor for action 1:
>start producing venom for the gyldenthrong's war effort
The meluz at the capital, as few as they are currently, lack the troops to send immediate help. In order to help as much as possible as soon as possible, they send a fresh supply of venom to the front lines, and leave a message stating that the troops will arrive soon. (next turn)

1-2 finish integration of nomach

Rolled 1 (1d3)

>>4035587 & >>4030527

if 1. Ants begin tentatively to investigate where they have emerged, finding it to be completely disused. The one door in is locked tight, and Sable listening intently hear only faint noise. They are a good distance away from both their target, and the thoroughfare, in the storage room of a shut-up public house, in a quiet corridor.

if 2. Ants begin tentatively to investigate where they have emerged, when the door to the room they've stumbled into swings open. A particularly fat Dwarf huffs in, throws a sack of rags in, and huffs out. The Ants go unseen, for now, but this place is obviously less abandoned than it looks.

if 3. Ants begin tentatively to investigate where they have emerged, when the door to the room they've stumbled into swings open. A sinewy Dwarf slams open the door, immediately spotting the emerging Sable who freeze. He lets loose a roar and another three Dwarves come charging in! The Ants scuttle back into their tunnel in escape.

>>4035988
"The Crossbow, well, I can actually show you one." He calls over a soldier in Human Standard, though it's words she couldn't understand. The steel armored soldier comes over, salutes Felden, and hands over his crossbow. Felden then hands it to Boldwyn. "This is a crossbow. They are built with metal bows, but they can be made of wood. The steel bows, however, impart far more force behind the bolt then wooden arms. The bolts themselves are essentially short arrows, which we tip almost exclusively with armor-piercing bolts. A volley of concentrated crossbow-fire can break up most shield walls. As for firearms, the were the most powerful weapons ever created. No armor could stop a bullet fired, they were simple to make, and anyone could use them. They were the weapon we would have used to wipe the world clean of all threats to the western alliance the Free Human State was a part of."

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THE NORTHERN WAR
Sable, Craver, Ashbeards, Gyldenthrong (+Meluzina?)
The first battle begins at dusk, after the heat of the day has passed. Rut'ra & Kos'tr charge and bash themselves against the wall of Dwarven forces. The Dwarves are tired, but stand strong against the strange barrage. For the Cravic beasts are not ones of intelligence, but instinct. They are ordered to attack, and so they do. Mindlessly again and again they throw themselves at the Ashen line until they are little more than bloodied hunks. All night the assault continues, leaving the Ashen forces haggard and bruised. At last they are joined by reinforcements, primarily of other Silver Dwarves, but a handful of Gylden come to aid their brothers.
Little can be done as dawn becomes day, the sun beats down harsh against the world. The Dwarves take to their camps, catching what small rest they can in the sticky heat. As the sun crests its zenith, the troops once more take their defensive positions. Interlocking shields stop any advance into their ranks, though a good portion of them are bent very badly. The Cravic forces too return, some having been reshaped or otherwise healed at the Flesh Mission. Kahro join them now, though only a few of the larger members. At some seemingly random time, the Flesh begins its second assault. The Dwarves are forced back by the ferocity of it all, digging trenches in the dry earth with their feet. Even those beasts that impale themselves on Dwarven pikes continue their attack, a truly horrid sight, accompanied by a truly horrid sound. As the cool night falls, there is another terrible sound, as over the mass of flesh fly a combined force of Raut'let and Caelum, who swoop against the Dwarves. Some as petty annoyance, swatted down with mace, and crushed under heel, but others mass together, lifting Dwarves from their positions, only to haul them to a great height before letting them drop. Even to the Dwarves, such a death is seen as cruel.
The fighting takes a terrible toll on each side, Flesh envenomed by the Rattler-imbued weapons of the Dwarves, Dwarves bloody and beaten by the unrelenting Flesh. But for it, almost nothing is gained! A foot here, a foot there, no great win. Dawn, and each return to rest, yet the Dwarves receive no such mercy, as the abominations scream their awful screams all throughout the day. The Flesh enlists the Ants to help guard them, setting up Titanom & Caelum in Nu Delta, and even a couple as extra guards at the Flesh Mission.
Harried by the ordeal, the Dwarves erect a permanent fort at the border, and patrol it regularly. The Flesh for their side, go about mimicking the Dwarves, constructing a facsimile of a fort in gore, buzzing along the border with Raut'let & Rut'ra.

END OF INTERLUDE.

>>4034482
1. The mainland presence must be strengthened to prevent any more dwarf aggression, much like the Bulargh in the Charnel lands, iron clawed burrows house the Rut'ra.

2. Upoon the river mouth once owned by the Kahro, beginnings of a rivermaw city begin named Rot'let , in honor of the Kahro

>>4036779
Blodwyn would inspect the crossbow and fairly quickly point into the sky, slowly adjusting before actually firing. Of course, it wasn't loaded, and she knew that too, but it was more to see how it actually worked. After, she'd seem to fairly easily put it back into the same position as it was before, just needing a bolt t be ready to fire. "Odd little thing, curios design too. I suppose it is good for children who don't have the strength to use a real bow, or the practice to use it properly...Unless...How long does your kind live for? If its fairly short, I suppose that such weapons would be quite useful, especially if most of your people aren't taught how to use the bow in their early age. I wonder what those firearms you mention looked like, I gather they are weapons which you have lost, but I must ask, how exactly did they work, if you know? Of course, if you don't know or don't wish to share even basic details judging how such things are likely holy weapons to you, then I can understand. Warfare, weapons, and armor is just something I'm quite fond of, its why I tend to spend my time with Clan Wynn, sparring, practicing strategy, or discussing weapons and the like. I suppose Clan Wynn is somewhat similar to your own in that regard."

>>4036818
He laughs. "The bow is a civilian weapon. The crossbow is meant for military use. A crossbow can retain the strength of a fully drawn bow indefinitely until it is fired, which, also due to their compactness, is the reason bows have for the most part been phased out of the arsenal of the FHRDF. Humans live for about 80 years, same with Awoo and the Half-awoo, the Half-elves live for closer to 100 and the Moon elves close to 200. Firearms are incredibly easy to make, actually, it's just the fact that the propellant powder needed to propel the bullets is lost to us, it's recipe lost in the fires of war, and same with the stores we had. Though, in replacement we now have our Foci Troopers, though they use magic." He thinks for a second. "Have you ever heard of a flamesprayer?"

>>4036831
"Civilian weapon? Hah! Trust me, despite its size, I'm sure with a Helwyr Saethwr or Meistri Rhyfel using it, it would be able to outshine your crossbows. I suppose in the future we can have a little competition to show which is better, bow or crossbow. Though I'm sure it would be unfair....Its a shame to hear your kind seem to have such short lives...At least these moon elves you speak of can live moderately long, if still short...You see, we Children of Fanw commonly live past four hundred years, though often don't live long after, usually only twenty more years. The oldest I have heard one of our kind getting was almost four hundred and forty six, though there might be some who have lived longer...Odd how your 'fire arms' use a powder to propel 'bullets' though I suppose there's more to it then what there first appears to be... As for a...Flamesprayer, is that related to your firearms? Perhaps a kind that uses just that powder instead of bullets, or some sort of 'magic' applied to them like your Foci?"

>>4036863
"Flamesprayers are weapons that produced gouts of sticky flame using compressed air, and a mixture of pitch and other fluids to thin it. It was a devastating weapon for enemy formations, especially seeing as the flame could not be put out by any means immediately available on the battlefield. They started as siege weaponry, though in time they became back mounted, with canisters of both propellant air and fuel being able to be switched out quickly. Had an actual war been fought with them, there would be many charred remains of the foe.As for your dig at crossbows, well, you seem to forget the differences between our peoples. What is better for you to use would not be as good in our hands, and the same the other way around."

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>>4034479
The Matriarch is most satisfied with her new colony. Her children are strong, healthy and thriving and with this it offers her both a sense of security and assurance . So much so that she invites Zaroka to the Labyrinth. Nethazar has kept an eye on the Mausoleum, and her daughter's initiative and acceptance of the Kahro makes her believe that she'd be quite open to what she has to offer. When Greeted by the Matriarch, Zaroka is taken aback. After a lengthy sit down, both go back and forth while she is brought up to speed with everything that's happened. Intrigued, she asks "what's in it for me?" To which Nethazar responds: "To be part of the future". With a guarantee from the Matriarch that Zaroka will be remade as well once the ants are united again, the pair begin scheming how to discard of those that would hinder the Matriarch's plan.

Actions:
>>4033534
>war: Ashbeards
-After what seems like an eternity of digging the ants finally reach their target. Or so they thought, but the few inquisitive ants that dared to peak around are able to confirm that's not the case. Regardless, the ants are just relieved to have found something after so long and begin preparing. The ants widen the tunnel leading to the storage room, stopping just short of breaking through completely. With the element of surprise on their side and with the slimes proving to be far less of a threat and more of a pest, the Swarm redirects Ti'Clika's and some of Kukusia's war brood from the north to reinforce Zaroka's in the south in preparation for the assault against the dwarves. Once fully reinforced the ants breach the wall at long last and flood the corridor and eventually out into the thoroughfare. Any dwarves unfortunate enough to be caught are taken into captivity. The ants attempt to capitalize on their surprise attack by scouting as much of the tunnels as possible and to dig themselves into the tunnels and establish a defensive beachhead by creating various obstacles and closing different routes to force the dwarves to go through the ants if they wish to pass through to the other side.

-the Matriarch tasks Zaroka with sending some of her brood around through the colonies to assess the situation that has been brewing since the Matriarch's absence. They begin to work their ways in all sorts of circles within the Catacombs and the Lychgate to learn who are still loyal and who are a threat to the glorious future of the ants including Kukusia and Ti'Clika.

>>4035872
>Diplo: Meluz

Nothing too extravagant, the Gylden emissary explains; they would simply offer to pay the equipping and provisioning of Tarnish or Deepaun mercenary forces that the Meluzina would be able to hire. Knowing both the Dwarven tongue and the Tarnish trade-language the Gylden Emissary would be able to interpret, to an extent, in the case that one party does not know a way to talk to the other; but the rub is that, in the end, the Meluzina must still be able to convince these mercenaries to fight alongside them, to stand strong against this menacing tide of flesh.
>>4035845
>Diplo: Vossiks

The tastes of Barley and Alcohol are familiar to the Gylden Dwarves, though not in quite this form. But strong, punchy... it is not quite the taste of home, but perhaps there is a ray of hope in this world full of monsters, and these strangers on our border posses some reflected rays of the light of gold.

The next day, there is a campfire burning on the sands of the riverbank. And above it, a sizzling pan of pork and apple casting out a mouthwatering aroma. With plates of warm food on fresh-cut bread, and tankards and barrels of Cider, the Dwarves at the riverbank will invite some of these strangers to share in a meal when the day is near the highest point.

>>4029847
Diplo: Vossik.

A group is dispatched to the Vossiks shortly after the Matriarch's meeting with Zaroka. Along with appealing to forces inside her border, she looks to gain more allies abroad as well. The diplomats which are sent is a group of the Matriarch's newest children. Needless to say, the Vossiks are surprised at the sight of the strange creatures that land outside their city, but similar to the ants of old they adorn themselves in flowers to try and appear familiar but this barely masks their alien appearance.

Once questioned by a group of guards as to who they are and what business they have, the diplomat answers in a raspy and clickish voice:
"We are the Karnis, and we have come on behalf of her majesty the Matriarch to discuss an important matter."

>>4036881
"Interesting. I take it that it doesn't have a long range though. Probably great on defense or in close quarters. However, it sounds like it would be large and complex, along with potentially volatile. And yes, I can clearly see why a crossbow would be quite good for your people. After all, your culture probably doesn't hold the bow in such a high standard that almost everyone learns at least the basics of how to use them in their adolescence, especially considering your shorter lifespan...I'd not be surprised if your people grew to full maturity sooner as well, given what you have said. Still, I would like to see just how good those crossbows are compared to our own bows. But we have digressed well and truly enough. While earlier I focused on my desire to obtain some armor from you, I also wanted some grapes, the berries that you use in your wine. I've heard that the drinks made from it are quite nice and would like to be able to create some of this gwin as it has been called here ourselves if at all possible."

>>4037158
"By the time the Mark 4 Flamesprayer was set to be put onto frontline use, the major instabilities and size had been optimized to the level where overheating was not a major explosion risk, and they could be back mounted. The major problem then was both propellant and fuel amounts. Both were more or less solved with the introduction of quick release valves and tanks, which allowed for the rapid exchange of either tank. Clan Varke were nothing if not through with their miniaturization and issue fixing." Upon hearing about her wish to try their hard drinks, he asked a diplomat for a few bottles. "We have some drink here if you would like to try. Vaydic Vodka, Taiidae Wine, and Dzen brandy. Feel free to try whichever one of these you would like."

>>4037192
"I see. Still, the risk of an explosion in my mind makes the weapon a bit less desirable. Even a slim risk is still a risk, though warfare itself is full of risks by nature. It certainly sounds like a curios design, something unique for sure...What is Vodka and Brandy? I know of the wine, and I'll gladly buy all of it, but I am curios how those drinks are made and if you have the seeds that grow the plants made in their creation. Again, I'd quite like to be able to create our own wine and similar. Though, I presume the reason why you are offering these drinks instead is because you don't have the seeds on hand, which is fine, if a bit disappointing."

>>4037255
"Vodka is a very simple drink relatively, it is made by distilling grains, or even potatos, but I am surprised you have never heard of Brandy, seeing as it is made from wine." He opens the vodka bottle, which had been in an icebox for some time. He then pours some into two small cups. "Here, it's best drank chilled, so it is best to have it now."

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SCENE SEVEN

>>4034497
>Tarn
The speed at which Tarnic shipwrights build is unmatched, save perhaps the top masters of the FHR Clans. With more ships, comes more trade, and with more trade, more cash. Smaller tusker-haulers cross the world with ease, establishing reliable networks from River Reed to New Andreth. They become a common sight in every port, hauling meat & grain, timber & ore; Leaving many of the more exotic and luxury items to the Depauns. It is an everyday task trading with the Tarn, dependable & well stocked, but it is exciting to see the living ships of the Depaun sail. This is how the Tarn like it, ostentation is not a Tarnic virtue.
A falsity, just as to be expected from women. No matter, the Xycthan search continues, fruitlessly. Within the catacombs of the Temple of Persa, the girl is asked to perform once again. The girl closes her eyes and the bell softly rings. There is rejoicing, she is hailed a gift from Persa Herself, She of the Liminal, Daughter of Dawn & Mother of Dusk. The poor girl looks tired, but the priestesses push her for a third showing, asking to know the limit of her gift. She asks for a cushion, which is brought to her, and she sits, quietly for many minutes. The gathered priestesses begin to whisper, perhaps it is only a little parlour trick, not so much a miracle as believed. At once they are silenced by the ringing of the church's prayer bell, a single loud gong quietening their tongues. With this final effort she slips into unconsciousness, awaking after a full three days of rest. The Persan Academy is lacking in students for now, with only a single member, but with the correct application, perhaps more with the gift will be found.

>>4035459
>FHR
A slew of backlogged reforms are passed, including tax-breaks for internal traders and a few export goods, a streamlining of the bloated tax code, and with this a review of spending of public funds. Corruption, especially bribery and back-door dealings, is rooted out, and the accused face stiff punishments. Quotas, levies, tariffs and all other such manners are formalised & standardised, loopholes closed, and classifications renewed. No more will a barrel of ale be taxed at the rate of grain, and other such outdated things. Old coinage is re-minted, including a limited run of gold coinage for use in the expanded Elven Republic.
The mounted Foci become the most sought after for the comfort they provide, and the ease with which they are aimed. An optimum length is finalised for them also, being not too long to become unwieldy, but still providing the most benefit. There is concern within Clan Varke at the use of the wooden stocks, which some say are desecrated by the modifications necessary to not only hold a Foci, but to allow an Elf(!) to grasp the metal through it. For the caster must make contact with the metal to channel their magics through it. A full-hand-grasp is best, petering off to just the fingers-touch, any less is not enough for the Foci to pick up.