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CEASELESS WAR AND CEASELESS WAR, pt.1

-The War in the West-
The Ashen end their rest & celebration with a sorting of the rubble, in search of suitable material for a construction of their own. The Ants' wall had been built of the hard rock of the Dwarven mountains, each block remaining relatively intact. Of course where the immense boulders used against it had hit, there remained only pebbles, but these would make a suitable souvenir to bring back to the mountainhomes. They had started to dig a foundation when the beat of Karnis wings droned overhead, shielded by the canopy, the Dwarves paid it little heed. That is until a thick, translucent substance began to drip, and sizzle against the ground. As the Dwarves continued, so did the attack. Drops finally began to rain upon the Dwarves, burning any skin and hair, slowly eating into their metal armour. Ashen ran to their weapons, firing their ballistae into the air. A few Zo'Karn are felled, but these flying Ants are quick, retreating out of sight only to buzz over the opening they had made in the leaves, raining down caustic slime. More Zo'karn arrive, criss-crossing the skies, too fast for the Dwarves to line-up a shot. By now the slime had burned through Dwarven helms, burrowing into their scalps. Unable to hold their position, the Dwarves return to their hill, wheeling their heavy weapons through the trees with difficulty.

-The War in the East-
With the Flesh driven from the land, the Gylden set about securing the coast against further invasion by the beasts. A fort is constructed to watch over the coast and that sinking tower out in the surf. Unbeknownst to them, crab-like Kahro monsters make their way to their new home around the roots of the tumorous growth, anchoring it firmly to the seabed and securing it against future attacks. The waters around the sunken tower are murky, but still clearer than much of the Strait. With keen eyes the Dragons may easily harpoon the largest of the Flesh beasts, which when hauled in resemble giant flat-headed squid, whose tentacles have been augmented with hooks of bone. Closer to the tumour swim a bastard race of two-legged crocodilian creatures, with stunted tails and misaligned teeth. But the waters do not relent, they teem with Cravic foulness, and no headway can be made. They seem to thrive unnaturally in the filth which is called The Wending Strait.
Now that the battle is won, what more can be done against the Flesh? Their grip on the Mainland holds and will surely one day once more be a threat. The Gylden have many plans to drive them further back, which with Tidal & Meluz troops should easily be done. The combined force will march west, destroy the fleshy construct there, and continue to the river to tear down the stinking maw which helps pollute the Strait.

CEASELESS WAR AND CEASELESS WAR, pt.2

-Conflict in the Tunnels-
News of the collapse in negotiations is quick to reach the Ironstone Mine, who enact their plan to evict the Dwarves. They begin removing fill-in stones from the wall, trying not to alert the Dwarves who may well still be mining beyond. The Tarnsmen withdraw, and begin pumping a huge quantity of opium smoke into the shaft. Mining operations had slowed during the dispute, but not halted, and though they had not heard the Tarn, being a ways in, the acrid smell of the smoke slowly seeping through the wall caused some confusion. Stating gruffly that he had just farted the foreman ordered the Dwarves to continue. It is only when the air becomes thick that it is clear something is afoot. The few Ashen retreat out of the mine, already beginning to feel drowsy. Tarnsmen pump fresh air back into the shaft and descend, there they undo their wall and crouch to enter the Dwarven mines. Each offshoot is okayed clear, the main tunnel out identified, and their steel cap installed. Dwarven guards arrive to see the cap having been bolted in place and let out a rageful curse. Hearing such blue language, the Tarn hurry to lay their trap of opium bushels, lighting it, then withdrawing further down the tunnel to install another cap. Such a conflict is no doubt just the beginning however, and the Tarn immediately begin to wonder what the inevitable outcome will be.

-The Elven Marsh Affair-
Elezen venturing into the southern marshlands of the Ashen find further east a long established village, and it is here that the shout is raised, halting the Elven advance. Those Elves in the north however found the wetlands uninhabited, for unknown to them this had once hosted the capital of the Kahro. Nothing of it remains above ground, so in the shadow of the mountains, the first marsh-kosts are raised. It is over a month before the squatters are found, though by now they are well entrenched, and not speaking Dwarven cannot understand the apoplectic shouts of the lumberdwarf. Before long, more Dwarves arrive, drawn by the screams of their brethren only to begin their own haranguing. The Elezen merely shut themselves inside their mudbrick towers. The Ashen are enraged by such insolence, utilising their jotedkuln'uren to inform all within earshot of this invasion of Elves. This of course draws even more Dwarves, this time armed, some on goats, including a rock-hurler to drive off the interlopers.

END OF INTERLUDE.

>>4141889
1. In the underground labs, B'yogi research how to further strengthen their forms, their darkness, their power. Weeks turn to months and months turn to years, but time for B'yogi is nothing for it's just a irreverent part of existence. On this quest, they study ways to combine physical with the ethereal. Steel with shadows combine. (Trying to made Shadow knights)
2. But such new creations will need mounts. The M'thus are a curious things that absorb emotions from other beings and emulate them. A niche creatures, but can it have other uses other than soothe people's pain? B'yogi research ways to breed/shape a seperate group of M'thus into larger and imposing creatures. (Death mounts)

>>4141889


>Action 1: Fear of Flying

As Dwarven units take up preparatory positions, and fresh companies drawn from Æblekag and Gnavkop arrive to replace those that returned to the south - including some of the Guldfar'zelet, the first Guldfar's Gaze machines to come out of the engineer's sheds - the Golden Dwarves preparing the attack give thought to the buzzing bitey beasties that seem to move with and as part of the horde of the mindless flesh-monsters. Though the Ashenbeards do have their sky-killers, the devices have been growing less effective as the creatures have adapted; and so the Gylden start to think of alternative or supplementary methods for clearing the skies. Flashes of light from the Guldfar'zelet, perhaps, to daze or disorientate; or great steel-mesh fishnets launched skyward to chain and bind the swarms on the wing. Emissions of paralytic chemicals to have the beasts fall to a slumber and from the skies together, scraps of stone and sharpened metal shards flung skyward to simply shred the beasts on the wing, even the release of trained birds to make themselves a dinner of the biters. Proposals are debated and rejected, until the Gylden decide it is the wire-mesh nets that they will go with, for their fishing advances are themselves already new, and hope that the creatures will not have an easy counter to having their swarms hauled from the sky like the catch of the day.
>Action 2: Gold Fishing the Gyre

Since the establishment of the Gyre'zelet lighthouse, the Gylden have held at most times a scholar and a priest in residence, making study of the Gyre and the motions and assaying the theological context of the swirling visage and the gleam of gold beneath. Certainly, they have not once yet seen Guldfar descending downward into the Gyre as the day falls; suggesting that it probably isn't quite the holy wonder some might have wished for it to be. And though the swirling pull of water is strong, Dwarven construction is solid; and as strong as the Gyre's pull might be it draws in only ships and flotsam, not solid structures on solid rock.

To that end, the Golden Dwarves will fish from Gyre'zelet; or if that is too far for their engineering tolerances to run, they will build a platform on the closest solid rock up from the seabed. From here, the Dwarves will assemble fishing devices - both the success of their tests, and many of the 'failures' that might be more useful bringing up seafloor gold then they would have been fish. And they will bring longsight tubes, even a Guldfar's gaze to shine the light of their golden god down into the golden Gyre. And with sight and with implement, they will fish the Gyre for her secrets and treasures; and hopefully bring up those prizes of Gold that might lurk beneath the maelstrom.

>War Action:
The Golden Dwarves gather and prepare alongside their allies and mercenaries for the advance that they hope will make the lands this side of the river safe.

>>4141992
Forgot to do this beforehand.
>When B'yogi agreed to the Garnish Ones' proposal to allowed the hiring of excited B'yogi, they took ships or the underground routes to head to their destinations.
>>4142014
Like what was talked on the discord, your people would have met them. So informal diplo?

>>4139107
>>4141889

With the entirety of Llychlyn in, well, Llychlyn's control, Eheubryd's plan can be finally start. Llychlyn would have its territory prospected in search for materials that lay under the earth, mainly in area's that resources weren't found in already, but some effort would be done to check if there was more in the area's that already had a supply of other materials. Additionally, or unfortunately, this would include the old hole in the ice as a place to prospect, and naturally, those sent down there brought with them a good deal of holy symbols made from animal bone. Of course, in regards to that place in particular, if it was to ever be used as a mine if it actually had anything useful, it would naturally be given a proper, if modest temple to Fanw, but that was for the future. Regardless, it was quite simple what Eheubryd's plan was at this moment in time. Expand the goods Llychlyn had to trade. It was something that shouldn't take too long in regards of work for her to do. Surely.

Meanwhile over seas with the tarn, Blodwyn observed the war and conflict, giving advice and learning the capabilities of the Tarn and their enemies further. Considering how Fanw visited her once more some time ago, she was careful with regards to her safety, as what greater way to cause a war than for her to die? Regardless, she'd make sure the Meistri Rhyfel with her were protecting her when trying to observe any true fights in the coming weeks if any occur from a safe distance, and preferably an elevated position from where the battle took place. Any fighting underground she would rely on the information the Tarn gave on what had happened, as her confidence in combat in such small tunnels where she'd likely be unable to stand straight in was a bit lacking to say the least. Still, with the battles that would be fought, and the varying planning in the camps before battle, Blodwyn would start to get some idea's for how war could and should be fought, getting some unconventional and, arguably, ungentlemanly idea's for warfare, usually utilizing fire, strikes at an enemy's main camp in the night, disrupting their supply of food, alongside more conventional things like swift ambushes followed by just as swift withdrawals. Needless to say, these tactics could be quite useful...She just needed to temper them properly.

>Action One. Prospect Llychlyn, find all beneath the surface.

>Action Two. Work on Strategy, the unconventional kind, using experiences from the Tarns war.

>>4142029
>Diplomacy: B'oo

The Gylden Dwarves are extremely uncertain about these shady creatures, but if they're going to introduce themselves at least we can say hello. Preferably from somewhere well lit, mind, just so we can try and see as much as we can of them.


>>4142053
>Diplomacy: Llychlyn

The first of the Children to arrive in Gyldholm will be welcomed, even if she's just passing through. Though she would be invited to stay herself, and see the sights for a bit.


>>4142029
>>4142053
>Diplomacy: Boo and Lychlyn
>((If either has arrived with anything that is evidently an armed mercenary band passing through Gylden land and rivers...))
Gylden Emissaries meet with the leaders of these bands. They are curious where they are headed, and for what purpose; and will ask politely where they are bound. They would also mention the ongoing need for mercenaries in the northern war, and if they'd consider signing on to stand against the fleshy menace alongside Dwarves, Meluz and Deepaun... or even just sending observes, to see what we are faced with.

>>4139116
action 1:
>introduce a standardized currency made from the remains of a rare and tough sea snail, whose single habitat is tightly controlled and regulated by the ruling government. It is officially only for use in exchanges between trade ships and their customers.
action 2:
>search the three main islands, the one with Bothrio upon it, the one with the book library and the one with the untapped source of lead for something useful, even if it isn't specifically useful for war
war action: (+ rumor)
>something, anything which is capable of defeating the swarmed enemies of the flesh creatures or in combating the corruption at sea is searched for. Whatever answer we find we invest into any try to take the first steps into turning it into the most formidable enemy for the masses of the air which cannot be caught and those of the sea who destroy the hook and bait of our noble fishers of flesh.

>>4142326
me

>>4142029
>Diplo: B'yogi
Thankfully the shadow beings have learned the Vossik Trade language, a welcomed change of pace for the Karnis diplomats.

"Greetings, we are the Karnis and we simply wish to exchange pleasantries. It is delightful to meet fellow acquaintances of the Vossiks, for we too share a good history with the fine Elezen of Sigod's spine. We would like to offer to you the customary gifts of our nation on behalf of the Matriarch, Nethazar, who reigns over our dominion of the far North."

The ants hand over the honeydew and food they brought along with them.

"The Swarm hopes that our peoples can learn from each other and work towards building a positive relationship."

>>4142126
S'chere was ecstatic on to meet and gored new things! He hasn't had this much fun since his little years studying under the Garnish ones. When in the port, a group of Small Ones approach them. Little H'yomi? Must be the trickery of M'ed. He always did like making H'pabi angry with small things.

S'chere explained that they were headed to the Garnish ones to help in their wars with the Flesh. He also said if you promise new experiences then B'yogi back home will join you!
(Head to Jubilation)
>>4142788
B'yogi mercs are intrigued with the hard shell creatures. They look giant version of ae'nts back home. Most curious. S'chere, the leader of the mercs, took up the position of informal diplomat for now.
*in a rough and harsh accent*
"On behalf of the Shadow Ones, we accept these wondrous gifts."
S'chere took a taste of the honey and almost devoured it before calming himself. This must be the legendary nectar of S'cie! They must have more!
"If your relationship is willing, we would be help to greet and talk in a more formal session. Please send your ambassadors to the port of Jubilation to adapt to our land and head Fright, our capital.

The Tarn are a convincing folk to say the least, and the diplomats were quick to accept their words. For a while now the Tu'Karn have been allowed to freely work on their farms, and the slight unease that comes with first contact quickly gave way to the familiarity that was graciously fostered by the quick thinking hosts.

Still, the Swarm desires to know more of those they choose to do business with, having experienced what can come from having unfamiliar bed fellows. As the stories the Tarn spun to the scouts reached the Matriarch and her council, they were most impressed at the feats the Eastern folk had achieved. Believing it to be beneficial to learn more of such an impressive culture, the Karnis send more of their diplomats and ask if the Tarn would invite them in to study their cultures and customs in order to broaden their understanding of each other and their ways of life.

>>4143269
>Diplo: B'yogi
The leading diplomat appears to do a small shuffle out of excitement at the words of the kind B'yogi.

"On behalf of the Karnis, we humbly accept your invitation, kind S'chere. We shall set forth for your port with due haste. May you remain safe on your own journeys as well."

After S'chere marked the location of port on their map, the diplomats gathered themselves once more and set off, eagerly anticipating what sights awaited them at their destination.

>>4141889

>Diplomacy: Cewri

Uncertain of what to do, Rathi waits for Jotte's tears to finish slowing, and offers the Giant a tankard of Gylden Ale Cider to help pick him up from the sorrow. What were the Copo, he would ask, once he thinks the giant in receptive enough mood to discuss the matter. What happened between them and the Cewri? And why is Papa's spirit still restless?


>>4143269
>Diplomacy: B'oo

These strange creatures are heading up to fight the flesh? Guldfar be praised, more help! The Gylden show their hospitality and go to fetch casks of Dwarven mead, ales and ciders for these passing guests. They may look odd, but the world is home to many odd things, and for odd things these ones are polite enough to treat with some respect as they share Dwarven songs and stories. The Scholar Kadran Laedew approaches them a little later in the day, to ask the B'oo some questions of what they are and how they do things, for they seem quite unlike most other peoples.

>>4136107
>Diploamcy: Tarn

The Gylden Dwarves are delighted by the news heard from the shadow-strangers, and an emissary is sent to the Tarnishmen to thank them. The B'yogi tell the Gylden that they are heading north to support the Tarn in the wars against the flesh! The Gylden are delighted that the Tarn will be joining the wars in a more official capacity, and ask the Tarn what they are planning, where in the north they intend to strike. Perhaps there could be some co-ordination between the active forces.

>>4141890

>1: balloon, filled with hot air
This researcher, all by his lonesome, has been working for the past week on a prototype for what he calls the next innovation in air travel. All the way back to his experiment with some dwarf's raggedy, old bedsheets, to what is now a vast network of light clothing and cloth. He's given up most of his clothes in order to make it, leaving only the garments that were too heavy to fit on his contraption. Once again, this man has created a balloon from cloth. And this time, instead of making a "fuel tank" out of wood, he's opted for a steel box, with an opening at the top. Hanging below this steel box is a big basket, which he weaved himself. Before testing out his contraption, he writes down the plans for his balloon, just in case he doesn't make it back. At the site of his supposed takeoff, he's invited a few of his friends, in hopes that they'll see what he's done.

>2: digging in our newly acquired swamp land
Why is it that the tidal didn't want us to start mining under the former soghoian territory? Having gained our very own swamp land, we do our best to find out. Of course, given the amount of trees in this swamp, we may need to bring an axe or two at the start of our operations.

>>4135883
>Diplo: Tidal
Once more, we ask of our fishing rights in the mare's tail, and why we are unable to fish in most of the sea there, despite the complete absence of the frogs.

>>4141889
Actions:
-With the work on the undersea highway nearing completion, the Karnis push to complete this crucial work for the security of the Union. As the stones are cut and cleared away, they are carefully extracted and transported to the Southern Wall where it is extended further along the jungles of the border.

-The once titanic meteor that caste its menacing shadow far across the dunes of the desert has been mostly chipped away, it's former glory now only a memory to the most venerable of Queens. With its reduced size, the ants now endeavor to finally pierce its heart, tunneling into its depths, while scouring the sands beneath for other treasures that might have broken off and been buried over time. It is time to see what secrets this former celestial holds, if any.

>Diplo: Vossiks
The Vossik watermills have caught the attention of the swarm. Although humble contraptions, their potential is undeniable and the princesses eagerly attend whatever courses the Vossiks may offer on the subject and its related theories.

>>4141890

1. From the wall of the Oasis, the remnants of first Karnis containers expand and shift to the needs to replicateand experiment with the new creatures, call it the Shroom'ish'alat (Shroom Man Containment). Some slime to perhaps neutralize the spores be attempted.

>just making infrastructure for the proper experimentation with the enfleshening

2. From the Chern the repopulating Chern'bolg are taken on drills across the sands. Initial samples to see what the wastes may hold are collected from the soil and of whatever life dwells within.

>Prospection

>>4141889
1. A mass project to construct waterworks to provide more water to the cities and towns is started, aqueducts, wells, using healing magics to purge unclean waters, etc...

2. The creation of fishing fleets escorted by FHRDN ships is authorized to supplement food production by farms.

1. Call to Arms
The slaughter of Elven settlers in the mountains has caused an uproar in the Vossaya. Many senators call for Thunna Delenda Est, and the vote is near unanimous. For now, it would be the responsibility of the standing forces in Pokos to drive out the Dwarves from the lowland marshes near the mountains. Other forces would, of course, be sent as they could be mustered. For now, the majority of the fighting would need to be done by Pokans and with their proximity to the fighting regions it would be easiest for them to to receive forces. The Vossaya was aware that over the mountains of Sigord's Spine other Dwarven settlements could be found, but it was deemed a foolish endeavor to march an army over the hostile peaks to unknown lands. For now, the war would be conducted on the wetland and preparations made to repel an invading force coming over Sigord's peaks. For now, the slow gears of the Vossik war machine begin to turn as the Shield Call rings out to every kost from the blue flames lit above their tall towers. The levied and semi-professional forces of the kosts will come next as the professional soldiers man their fortress posts and the cavalry is sent south.

2. The First Riders
The next breed of Gryphons are raised and tended to carefully by some of the wealthiest members of the warrior caste. These Maesai are themselves the children of senators and champions alike, and their access to wealth gives them ample time to train and to train with their Gryphons. The process of acquiring even one of the fearsome young chicks is extraordinary. The cost is more than an entire kost's worth of output for well over a year, and for their reason there are punishingly few. Only twelve of this generation are adopted by a well off family. The rest are kept for breeding and more general training purposes. For their size and ferocity, it is the females that are preferred mounts - although their riders are near exclusively male. The irony is not lost on some Elezen women. It will be decades before the first riders are ready to take to the skies, and for now they train and bond.

The Tarnish border with the dwarves is placed on maximum alert. Mercenaries and soldiers alike are focused onto the Eastern border. Phalanxes of Tarnsmen patrol the walls, while boats guard the rivers from intrusion. At the Ironstone mine, a full complement of soldiers remains, watching and listening to the bell line for even the slightest hint that the dwarves are tunneling through or around the steel caps. At Roodkhaane Academy, classes continue at a frenzied pace, both students and instructors acutely aware that at any moment they may be called to defend their homeland.

>>4144264
The Tarn's are hopeful as well that the B'oo can be dispatched posthaste to the Northern War. Unfortunately, for now they must be retained within the Tarnlands in order to guard against a possible Ashen invasion now that negotiations have collapsed. The moment the situation on the western border becomes more stable, the Tarns will dispatch the B'oo north.

Action 1: Working with the FHR(>>4144426) and the CoF(>>4142053), the Tarns begin experimenting with advanced ranged weaponry. The first seed of discovery is found when it is observed that the FHR grenades produce a pressure wave when detonated. Perhaps the pressure could be channeled to launch a projectile?
>Cannons Part 1

Action Two:
The Societas Arcanum introduces their first new invention to the Council of Cities. A large piece of cloth, once enchanted, can be separated into many pieces. When any one piece is dyed, all the others will change color as well. In this way, simple messages can be communicated. The Council commissions a few of these cloths, one of which is separated into four pieces. One each is granted to the Cravers, the Karnis, the Vossik, with one being retained by the council. The other nations are directed to dye this cloth red whenever they attack the ashenbeard and blue once the attack has ceased. That way, all four nations can coordinate their attacks on the grey dwarves. The cloth is transported to each nation with the utmost secrecy, and the existence of this cloth itself is hidden from the world.
>>4143530
>>(Vossik)
>>4144393
>If Tarns do not know of the Vossik conflict yet, they do not receive a piece of cloth.

>Diplo: Karnis
>>4143358
The Tarnish government, once reassured of the ant's benign intentions, are happy to allow a small permanent population of ants across the Tarnlands. Their only request is that a small number of Tarns be allowed to live with an learn from the Kahro as well.

SCENE ONE

>>4141992
>B'yogi
A B'oo is a creature of immateria, a substance not of this realm. In their quest to strengthen themselves on this plane, they discover that they themselves must become of it. To lower oneself to the material has been an unthinkable act, only theorised by the most fringe of scholars of Insight. But with word of war reaching them, what can be done to protect this precious nation of theirs? The H'yomi may last only so long against an onslaught. Hypothesis becomes fact, as the first B'oo is grounded to this place, giving up forever their ability to move in-between. They are flooded with a thousand thousand emotions, which until now had only dripped precariously onto the B'yogi. The, thing, no longer a full B'oo steps on their own two feet, having taken the shape of a H'yomi, though not quite yet have the B'yogi understood the concept of clothing, the thing is created in the irremovable garments of a Dark Friend. More experimentation will be needed it seems.
The M'thus had been used sparingly, risky as it was to create more, but needs must. A handful are taken aside, cleft in twain, and allowed to regrow. This happens twice more until a stable of M'thus are created. M'thus, also being creatures of shadow, are susceptible to Shadowshaping. The creatures are surprisingly dense of shadow, allowing for greater shaping than would be possible of a B'oo such a size. Design is taken from the "koneh" creatures of the Dark Friends (horses), though with a B'yogi flare. Somewhere along the way, they had lost their emotion stealing aspect, but alas not their blank minds. The beasts stand where they are made, moving only to seek darker shadow.

>>4142014
>Gyldenthrong
It is a pain and a half to get the nets to fire properly at Torz'vogaz! They fail to launch, they fail to open, they snag, they fall short, many an engineer is left with a patchy beard after tearing out fistful in frustration. Finally, after much head-scratching, a solution is employed. Where the net is gathered together, four curved weights are added, which when launched catch the air just so, fanning out as they fly. The range is much shorter than would be ideal, but this will surely be fixed with the Mk.II.
It is perhaps the dreaded 'Gyre-madness' that causes a Dwarf or two to cast his line from the Gyre'zelet in hopes to reach the gold so far away, but with slightly more level heads a more sensible notion is floated. A stone jetty is built from the lighthouse, twice as long as any bridge in the nation, pushing Dwarven building to its limits. Still, it is not enough! Looking glasses show little beneath the churning waters, only mere glimpses of gold. Then the Guldfar's Gaze is wheeled out onto the pier, and with the light of noon, blasts a ray of sunlight directly into the Gyre.

>Gyldenthrong cont.
At once it is as if a candle is lit in a dark room, and light emanates from the depths! It sparkles like a hammered bowl, as if the sea floor itself is of pocked gold! The sight is mesmerising, the call of the Gyre grows ever stronger, She whispers to the Gylden. Or perhaps their greed. "Come, child, come to me, and slake your thirst."

>>4142053
>Llychlyn
The entire island is searched, with special attention given to the southern tundra. In the southern forests a metal once only held by the Gylden is unearthed, Zinc. Further south, closeby that dreaded place is discovered beneath the frost a source of coal, which the Remnant peoples say is much better than wood for heating. Finally, right at the most southerly tip of the world, is found by frozen explorers, a new and fantastic metal, Platinum. The colour of silver, weight of lead, and untarnishing nature of gold.
From the Tarn, much may be learnt, a cunning race of Men as they are. Methods to alert oneself of coming danger with the use of bells, of fort construction, and of most un-Fanw-like subterfuge. Blodwyn's own small library becomes stocked with Remnant and Tarnic treatises on war and such like. As of yet there has been little word from the mines of further Dwarven advance, but it is quite assuredly only a matter of time.

>>4142326
>Tidal
[R] There is talk between the Tidal and Tarnic traders, that the FHR have a method with which to turn coal into a flammable viscous liquid. More that the stuff they call "coal tar" may have additional uses that the Men are too, focused, to study.
'Risso' (commonly also 'Ritho' or 'Rizzo') are the perfect currency for the niche, as their unique patterning is seen in no other creature and would be difficult for even the most talented artist to recreate in under a day. Plus, outside of the Tidal Empire, they would serve barely as a decorative trinket.
The land is scoured, every rock picked through, and the results collated in Bothrio. Of the Capital island, a source of copper and a cache of stone creatures are found. Of the Book island, the whole earth is rich with tin. And of the holdings in the Mare's Tail there is a renewed source of salt, should the existing mines slow.

>>4144355
>Meluzina
His friends gather around the site of the "launch" incredulous, some worry for his mental stability. They watch as he loads the fuel box, places the balloon just so, and lights it. At first, very little happens, but as more fuel is added, the balloon begins to take shape. In time it hovers above the basket, filled with smoke. They applaud, for it is unlike really anything they have seen, but notice their friend's frustration as he remains steadfastly on the ground. More fuel is added, in hopes such a thing will help, alas it does not. He slithers out to fetch more wood and as he does so the thing takes off! Thankfully it is tethered quite thoroughly to the ground, but the sight of the large balloon drifting over head draws many more onlookers. In time the fuel is depleted and the smoke escapes, bringing the balloon gently to the ground. It is a, partial, success.
Below the muck and grime, there is found a cache of magnificent gems! [CHOICE! Emerald or Amethyst] Could this really be what the Dragons had wanted for themselves? A cornered market on a new gemstone? How tricksy of them!

>>4144368
>Karnis
[B] Though the process had been happening unnoticed for some time, slowly life had flowed back into the sandy ground between the two rivers in the north, perfect silt in which to grow the crops of the Vossik peoples. Too, sand had crept back into barren rock claimed by the Slime long ago, now that they are contained. Little lizards and scorpions repopulate the land, each with their own hidden talents.
Alas, with canopy destroyed, there is no protection from the air, so a location further back is chosen. Less suitable than the mountain stone, but terribly plentiful, a new jungle wall is built. The stone is noted for its dark colour and light weight. A gate of iron bars allows the river to keep flowing.
Only a relatively small nucleus of the space rock remains, even the crater has been picked clean of meteoric iron. So, with the curiosity they are well known for, along with their famous foolhardiness, the Ants tunnel into the heart of the comet. To their shock, even in the heat of the Estral Desert, they find within a ball of blue coloured ice! More strangely, the ice stinks of decay, unpleasant even to the Karnis. Those Ants who burrowed into the thing complain of dizziness, and a contracting feeling within their thorax. Any food they are given is spewed back out involuntarily seconds after ingestion. Further Karnis sent to investigate find the ice still solid, but also begin exhibiting the same sickness.

>>4144393
>Cravers
With Karnis experimentation being moved to the mainland, the initial pods are regrown to accommodate the body of the Shroom-being the Tarn had captured. Should experiments on this individual be a success, the additional pods will be put to good use. For now, they house Cravic researchers and their tools. Once placed into the confines of the flesh, the Shroom reacts in much the same way it has reacted throughout containment, aimless wandering. Though perhaps noting the lack of vegetation about it, the thing halts every so often, releasing a fine white mist from it's, mouth? before continuing it's rambling frequently bumping straight into the walls of its pod.
The hot sands are an annoyance to the Chern'bolg, so used to the mild wet comfort of the jungles and oases, but orders are orders. Initial searches are fruitless, with the apes simply pawing at the sand, but when shown by disapproving Craver attendants the way to dig they take the lesson to heart. Sand flies through the air as the apes dig with abandon, blooding their hands with their vigour. Once rock is reached, an attendant is hooted over to study it. There are in the deserts found three new delights, perhaps best used for trade with the Karnis' ally, the Vossik. The first is gold in the south, though dirtied with silver as electrum. The second is a relatively pure source of copper. And third [CHOICE! Sapphire or Peridot].

>>4144426
>FHR
A small reservoir and pumping station is built on the Asuren river, where inquisitive shadows peer into FHR lands. The pump is manned at all times by labourers and at least one Sajaak-Khar priest, who performs blessings over the water to purify it. From this an immense aqueduct flows northwards to Dezna into another reservoir, which splits into an aqueduct north to that forge city and west to the capital. With these water works going on, new wells are dug, tapping into ever deeper aquifers. Plans for a unified sewer system to flush waste away are drawn up.
With so much ocean around them, it only makes sense for the FHR to begin their fishing fleet in earnest. It had for many years been a relatively familial endeavour, especially within Clan Caldath, but as the population grows more sources of meat are required. A Man can live on grain alone for only so long after all.

>>4144566
>Vossik
Word of Dwarven meddling reaches the Vossaya surprisingly fast, though as yet it is just angry, unintelligible gabble. A small contingent of Pokan crossbowelves are sent post-haste. They arrive to find a stalemate, the Ashen have also called up additional troops, but for now they remain at the border fence. There is tension in the air, but neither side as yet is ready to begin the fight. No Elf can make it out of the hamlet, or in for that matter. The Hacmosi wait in the foothills. (There's not been actual combat yet.)

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>Vossik cont.
The gryphon training progresses steadily, if slower than would be ideal. That these warriors spend more time with their mounts than their wives is an obvious avenue for gossip, even going so far as caricatures being handed around the establishments of the upper classes. It is in these clubs and semi-private houses that rumours of a more, noble nature, abound. (from now on, you can ask for a Rumour, Chamberlad Rumour, or Noble Rumour, if you so choose)

>>4144567
>Tarn
The grenades of the FHR are studied prodigiously, with tests started on encapsulating them to force their power in a certain direction. Alas, it seems that free air flow is required for the shells to explode so magnificently. All is not lost however, for with Fanyuic design, a more powerful ballista than currently employed is designed. With little modification, the device may also cast out these grenades.
Of the cloth, it is an artefact of immense import, employing everything the Tarn had learnt from their B'yogi allies in illusion magics. The thing's power would only manifest were the parties to place their utter belief that it should work into it. One weak link and the cloth is as mundane as any other. The relic is cut in half, this piece being placed within the chambers of the Augursoul, the remaining piece bisected again, to be sent to the Lord of Flesh of the Cravers, and the Matriarch of the Karnis Ants. Three powerful souls, once the next Augursoul is located, would in this way forever be linked.

DIPLO
>>4144264 >>4144567
The Giant dabs at his eyes and sighs deeply. "The Copo were men, long ago, before the Gylden left the mountains even. We Cewri, warred with them, over what I do not know, Papa was the last of that time. The Tarn who came to him, they spoke his true name, a powerful thing to us Giants. Only a Copo could have known that name, it was their one power over us. We feared the Tarn had, become, in a way, the Copo of the past. Now I see it was here they heard that name," Jotte places a weary hand upon the stones, "This, this was a Cursestone. It was carved by a Copo, against us. This thing damned us, perhaps rightly so." Jotte from then on is silent, his gait sluggish as he trundles back to Roodkhaane, and then home.

END OF SCENE ONE.

>>4144729
1. Waterwheels are needed. In New Andreth, they are used for agricultural purposes, while in Denza, Industrial. Water powered mills for grinding grain, water powered hammers and bellows in Denza, even a prototype air compression system using waterpower instead of manpower.

2. Those sewer plans are confirmed by the Daiimad. and they are put into place. The streets will be clean of filth, and that filth that isn't or can't be used for fertilization, is sent to the sewers.

[R]umor

>>4144722
With multiple different ores found in the ground, there was now one major thing that had to be done. Dig them out of the ground. A number of mines would be set up to take advantage of the new resources, especially the Platinum which, from what Eheubryd knew, was unique to Llychlyn and Llychlyn alone. The resources from these mines would be extremely important, as the plan Eheubryd had came together. Really, said plan was simple, now that it was taking form. Simply make the means for Llychlyn to become a trade power. As even now, when they had connections to a number of nations on the large continent to the east and north, there was fairly limited outbound trade. As more than seventy five percent of all trade done happened by Remnant/Republic ships at Porthladdgweddillion. Though, this is was much higher before Tarnish merchants started occasionally arriving in Lunedannedd. Regardless, getting a good supply of important resources that others didn't really have access to would be key in drawing merchants from other nations to Llychlyn, and getting some families to go out with some goods to trade with others as well.

Still, this was going to take time, setting these mines up, and as this was done, Eheubryd would have some groups go out into the plains and both prospect for more potential deposits, and search for noticeably fertile lands for farming. After all, while the Children of Fanw ate mainly fish and game with food from crops and plants as a side often, with the population expanding, there was likely to be times in the future where there'd not be enough fish or game to feed everyone, especially considering how game was conserved so that there'd be a constant supply that wouldn't run out. Luckily, fish alleviated this issue, as did the new sources of game to the south, however there was only so many fishing boats, and while it was likely overdue for production of such vessels to increase. Regardless the plan for finding good places for farms was not to create a buffer and increase the amount of food available, but more to get more goods to trade, economic crops and the like. However, if the situation changed, they'd be able to switch over in a pinch.

Meanwhile, in the land of the Tarn, Blodwyn waited...Combat would come soon. She just hoped that this didn't some how get Llychlyn properly dragged into the war rather than just observing it much more closely than normal.

>Action One. Construct mines on the many deposits that exist. If unable to make mines on all, Platinum and salt will be prioritized followed by Zinc.

>Action Two. Prospect again in the plains. If no minerals are found, find the most fertile lands instead.

>Rumor.

>>4145723
Back in the embassy, the joint Varke-Dzen expedition had been sitting around for quite some time, well within the borders of the embassy of course. They had requested someone to come discuss a possible expedition to the hole for scientific purposes, and if possible, find the source of whatever effects it seems to produce, and if possible destroy it for good.

>>4146062
Shortly after their request was properly sent off, they'd receive word that someone would arrive soon. Initially, they would be informed that this was going to be handled by an older member of Clan Tudor given Eheubryd's blessing. However, another letter would arrive soon after stating that things have changed and they would be greeted by someone else with more authority seeing how they had the opportunity and that it likely wouldn't take too long, as a portion of their schedule opened up due to a ruling they needed to do being resolved much faster than expected between the two parties. When this person arrived, the expedition would see the one greeting them to be a Child of Fanw, standing seven feet and eight inches tall with amber eyes and grey hair would arrive with some guard. Once seeing the small expedition, they'd introduce themselves. "I am Eheubryd, leader of Clan Cadigan and queen of Llychlyn. I'm terribly sorry for keeping you waiting. I know my sister is usually the one to work out dealings in regards to diplomacy with you, but as you already are aware, she isn't here currently, and I felt simply delegating the matter to someone else was inappropriate. Thankfully my scheduled managed to get a slight opening...Erm, on to business, you wish to go to the hole where that Fanw forsaken place we destroyed is, yes? If so, that can be arranged, though the only thing remaining other than the hole that once contained that cursed twisting labyrinth is a sense of unease...However, in recent times a few members of Clan Tudor, especially Rhisiart, has requested that something be done to make sure it doesn't come back, if it even can come back, just in case...Back to the main matter at hand I can and will fully allow you to venture down there if you'd like, but be careful...Also, you and anyone else from your republic who comes here in the future can go anywhere you like in Llychlyn, well, almost anywhere. If you have any questions I'll be happy to answer them, though if you wish to simply head off right away that is fine too."

>>4144729
1.

Through the Karnis tunnel do the Rut'ra run and move, rushing towards the western front to push into dwarven land.

2.
From the Osteo'clade, a hidden vein pierces under the soil from which the Flesh was driven from, digging towards the Tarnish bay.

>War
In Nu Delta, a massive point defense tumor (appearing as an oversized and far more robust Gastric Caster), the Grist'lung boasts the air power to blast the dragons out of the sky and melt their wings.

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>>4144729

>Action 1: Towns of the southern road.

For those dwarves who mine in the center of the southern forests, there is no local town within easy traveling distance - whilst their mine lies upon the great southern road, Æblekag is far and the links to other southern towns less developed. So it is only natural that the community comes to them, be they travelers of the road or the swineherds of the forest; and the town of Alumjorg rises on the doorstep of their mine. Whilst on the edge of the Kingdom, the town of Kezvogaz'unteg rises upon the side and into the slope of the river canyon, another stop for travelers of the road; both Gylden Dwarves and Ashen pilgrims heading to the Ashcloud peak.
>Action 2: Gyre studies, and more fishing.

The whispers of the Gyre are unsettling. There are those few, sadly, for whom their greed proves too much; but the more rational and skeptical members of the study-group decide to make use of these. A winch, a long sturdy cable and a specially forged water-depths protective suit are all attached to one Dwarf who is determined to go; they will let him down slowly, then pull back, so he might report on what he finds. Or if there's anything he's able to grab and pull back. The other Dwarves will keep on constant observation, watching through their longsight tubes and meticulously observing; and of course, Guldfar's gaze will be shining to illuminate the Gyre as we lower him in. We will watch and observe every detail of what occurs, and try to determine once and for all if the Gyre is promise or trap. We're professionals, we can do this.

>Rumor
New Towns in the south bring new rumors to the ears of the nation, as land is struck and more common contact made with some more isolated lands and peoples.

>>4144729
The discovery of the Celestial Core is quickly reported back to the Matriarch. Even she can hardly contain her excitement, but surprisingly manages to contain herself. Her mind races with possibilities, however they will need to wait. Work is immediately halted and the workers are ordered to evacuate, leaving behind a small mount of the meteor where the core is kept safely within. For the time being, the discovery is treated as the highest secret, with only few in her council privy to the truth. Again her agents are dispatched to prevent word from spreading, before the Sable vermin may catch wind of such a fine prize. Their methods are more tactful than before, opting to spread misinformation and convincing the Tu'Karn that were there that the deaths were due to unfortunate accidents, as the heart was more unstable than believed. The site is locked down with only those authorized allowed access, and a contingency of guards are stationed around the perimeter to safe guard it until more suitable measures can be taken.

Actions:
-With the forces of the Cravers en route to the front, the ants gather a large amount of their own forces behind the wall close to the Bore. Here they prepare themselves to join their allies in a combined effort, equipping and familiarizing themselves with their equipment and the arms they have received from the FHR to ensure their combat readiness. Ill content to sit idly, the generals drill their troops daily to keep them from falling into complacency while awaiting reinforcements.

-Back at the Labyrinth, work begins on putting the Karnis' newly acquired knowledge on watermill technology to good use. Princesses learned on the subject collaborate with the scholars of the Katak'Ziks to re-purpose its design. The brainchild of such effort is ultimately born in the form of a large drilling machine. Tipped with a massive drill head, a crew of Tu'Karn operate the contraption from within, running on treadwheels in order to spin the drill and propel the machine forward. The keen minds of the Swarm spend countless nights and days toiling within the depths of the colony to perfect their design.

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>>4141889
>This is what builders look like nowdays

>>4144567
>Diplo: Tarn
After receiving the blessings of the Tarn, the Swarm gathers small group of willing broodmothers who practically jump at the chance to explore these foreign lands. Among them, a Queen is chose, named Zikuru.

The Karnis inform the Kahro leader, Rikal, as well of the Tarns invitation being extended to them and their intentions. Upon hearing that the humans of the east had showed interest in his people, he expressed great delight. For so long the Kahro have been cautious, even fearful, of the mundane folk of the South, believing they'd always stigmatize the Kahro for their nature. Perhaps the Easterners are more enlightened?

After Rikal gathered the other high-carnates, they engaged in lengthy discussions on how to proceed. Opting for cautious optimism, the Kahro agree to send with some of their own along with the Karnis so that they may all live alongside the Tarn in these new lands.

Word is sent to the Tarn that their invitation is accepted, and within a fortnight a small fleet arrives to collect the bold migrants. As they gracefully sail into the horizon, they dream of the lives awaiting them.

>>4147297
Ok Zakov. Post already got queer

>>4147297
Builders are dead. There's no GM autistic enough to run a game with rules. We need fa/tg/uys and they don't come here.

>>4144720
The Children of the Three are forming at a quick pace. It's sickening that some B'yogi must give up their abstraction to protect us, but sacrifices must be made and clothing to be worn. They will always be honored!
1. Continue further research to develop the Children of the Three. Strengthen them, morph them, and give them the option of not to always wear clothes! H'yomi sensitivities are things we will never understand. They don't seem mind "nudity" when they're mating.
2. Our magic is at the limits already, but limits are nothing more than ideas to delve into other paths. We will research more complex rune designs and ways to etch patterns on other surfaces.
>>4143530
The Shell Ones are docked in the city of Jubilation. They are greet by the Dark One mayor named V'uos. They are given a small vacation in the city; relaxing in bathhouses, eating many delicious foods, and a show of talents. Afterwards they are sent to meditate in the Temple of the Three to protect their minds then they travel to Fright, the capital city.
They are sent to talk with the Formless Ones.
"Greetings, Shell Ones. What do you wish of us?"
>>4144264
S'chere says while all B'yogi are of curious mindset, due to living in this world, they have become varity of what they like to research. He isn't one to think of their existence anymore. Luckily a more scholarly B'yogi travels with them. A B'yogi named F'roto of Insight was glad to answer any questions.
"We are not of this world. Our home realm is a never-ending mass of twisting shadows and abstract idea. We don't know why we are here. Maybe the gods wanted change? Or a mistake in the cosmos. We can morph ourselves into many things, but there are limits. We can't grow larger than twice our size."

>Meluzina diplo
Action 1: Natural gas extraction from Quagspire
For some time, the Tarns watched the snakes’ attempts at flight with curiosity and bemusement. How did the snakes expect to make something fly without wings? But as their experiment progressed, their confusion gave way to genuine interest. A few months after the first successful tests, the snakes are approached by a group of Tarnish merchants. They tell of their knowledge of a light, flammable gas that they can supply to the snakes. In exchange, they ask to purchase the final products at a discount once they are ready for mass production.
>If the snakes agree
The Tarns redouble their efforts at restarting the gas mines at Quagspire, now assisted by an influx of money and manpower from the wealthy merchants of Tarnia. Work accelerates to a frenetic pace. As soon as even a few scraps of natural gas are extracted and stored, they are sent to the snakes for use in their development process.

Action 2: Projectiles
The larger, heftier ballistae provide the opportunity to customize their bolts with various effects. Hollowed out bolts can be filled with a variety of substances. One of the most commonly produced is known as the Warmonger’s Censer, or simply Censer for short. These bolts are stuffed with opiate leaves and lighted before being shot. When they hit something, the hollowed tip bursts open, creating a puff of narcotic smoke that lingers until the leaves are fully burnt. Similar bolts are also produced using FHR grenades and coal dust for explosive and incendiary effects respectively.

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>>4147327
We had a nice builder in late summer/early fall.
GM sticked. Players did not. At 2 people, he informed on discord that continuing will be pointless. /qst/ simply doesn't have manpower to play those (not to mention mentality of people is completely different when it's not a quest), /tg/ decided to go full retarded and lope builders with quests and the other chan stopped to exist, so there is no /builders/ autism anymore, too.

>>4147474
Even with all the preparations and kind gestures the B'yogi had showered the diplomats with since their arrival, they're taken aback at the sight, or rather the lack there of, when brought before the Formless Ones. A voice, but from where? And how? It sounds as if it comes from afar yet within at the same time. They had never heard it before but feel as if it's always been there, in the familiar shadows that crept in the corner of their eyes within the depths of the colonies

Realizing that their attempts at fully comprehending the situation to be futile, the diplomats answer the B'yogi after a brief silence.

"Mighty shapeless, it is an honor to meet you on behalf of the Karnis. Please allow me to first thank you for the generous hospitality you have shown us. We are most awe struck at your people. We have met numerous other civilizations, spanning from the West to the East, all from different walks of life. Yet none of it could ever prepare us for what you have to offer. You ask us what we wish of you. It is simply to live in peace. The philosophy of the swarm is that all peoples have their part to play. As the Karnis have their own, so do the B'yogi. It is not only the Matriarch's wish, but of all the swarm, that our nations could build common ground together so we each may learn in order to contribute to a better future for all."

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>>4147613
Action 1: Accept the Tarn offer and begin to implement the gas into hot air balloons

Action 2: build a farm north of Megalo(see pic)

>>4149422
>tarn posting on behalf of snakes btw

>>4144722
Action 1 + 2:
Construct a mine on the copper and the tin, so that soon we can create bronze fit for naval uses
War Action:
Send aid to the meluzina so that they can continue to fight with vigor

>>4142014
>Diplo
>Gylden
On a stormy night on the roaring seas of the Wending Straight, in the pitch black between flashing lightning, shining rocks and ore is carried in toothed maw and deposited as a rock structure upon the shore. When dwarven patrols comb the shore, they find a single Craver silhouette standing a top the mound. The being replies in the phrase long heard around the subrace of stunted men's fires

"A gift of Gold. The Flesh has listened, and now it shall speak. "

The Craver then dives beneath the waves in an instant, carried by a tether of flesh attached to some great beast beneath the waves.

1. Break the Siege

The assembled Vossik forces move to break the siege on their settlement by the dwarven besiegers.

2. Establish Farms
Farms are established in the hills near the aqueducts near Dravana Voss.

>Diplomacy: Cravers
>>4149529

The Gylden would be astounded to hear spoken words - even if in Tarnic - from the mouth of a flesh-creature, and they would gather and grumble around their campfires when they rest for the night, wondering just what this might mean. They have learned something of the golden gifts, perhaps... is this an offering intended to supplicate? Or a demonstration of knowledge, perhaps with the intent of demonstrating superiority? Though the Golden Dwarves have fought the creatures much, they know very little of them outside of the war of preservation. Either way, they would start to wonder what manner of being this was - some faction within the flesh-hordes capable of thought, of reason? Perhaps a cousin-breed, close to the monsters but with independent agenda and mind? Or just some new breed of creature designed for new and unsettling forms of attack against the Amalgram lands? They wonder, and find themselves worried.


>>4149451
>>4149428
>Diplomacy: Tidal Empire & Meluz

The Dwarves of the fortress send a representative to Otedkl'latgjal, to speak there with those who might better know the Wending strait; the local Meluz and the seafaring Deepaun. They talk of what seemed to be a flesh creature - and yet, it spoke, even offering and leaving gifts of gold. Has such a thing been heard of before, they ask? They Gylden have fought the flesh-monsters for an age in defense of Dwarven lands, but never before have they heard of one that speaks, even in the Tarnish tongue.

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SCENE TWO

>>4144910
>FHR
[R] Though not a direct trading partner of the Republic, news of turmoil in the Kingdom of the Mountain Dwarves in the south spark rumours of land free for the taking. Lush fields, prosperous mines, and gods know what else!
In the building of water wheels, the Tarnic allies prove a great help. Utilising the falling water from the aqueduct in Dezna the more efficient overshot wheel is constructed, supplying power to a whole host of machines, laying off a good deal of menial labourers in the process. Water-powered grain mills become a symbol of prestige in the farming communities around New Andreth, for they cost far more to build than the existing windmills. Meanwhile there is disruption throughout the capital as streets are torn up to install the sewers and drains.

>>4145723
>Llychlyn
[R] It is all the few Gylden traders who come will talk about, a strange phenomenon in the waters of the Sea of Glyndon which sparkles as gold. They say the ocean there must be teeming with the untold riches of some forgotten, glittering kingdom.
Mines are sunk for the strange new metal under the snow and the salt beneath the cold rock south. The work is hard in each, fetching high wages for those who tough the freezing temperatures and ever-present threat of collapse. The plains are once more set over, and though only a minor source of copper is discovered, the fields southwest of the capital should prove greatly fruitful should farms be planted here. It is perhaps not the way of the Children, but as population increase, hunting grounds do not, and food must still be put on tables.

>>4146711
>Cravers
With relative silence from the Dwarven menace, work from each side is poured into the completion of the undersea tunnel. Rut'ra, freshly birthed in Bulargh and ready for carnage, are funnelled down the passage then to the wall of the Karnis.
The vein struggles south through the soft sand into the earth of the mainland where the trouble begins, for the ground is rocky and tougher than anything Cravic veins have dealt with in the past.
(That's a little too far to be just war diplo, it's at least two turns of development for such a thing)

>>4147099
>Gyldenthrong
[R] Though only commented on with curiosity in the north of the country, the increase in wayfarers stopping in Kezvogaz'unteg proves suspicion. There has been a rise in Ashen venturing south to Zarjotun'torzdun, many more than is usual, even in the so-called 'Pilgrim Season'.
The settlement which had slowly grown around the alum mines is properly incorporated, and with this comes new settlers looking to make their name in the thriving & cut-throat dyes trade. Likewise, weary Gylden & Ashen travellers had long found rest at an inn on the slopes of the southern hills, and with business booming more & more come to make the place a town of it's own.

>Gyldenthrong cont.
A boat sets out with their, captive? maddwarf? willing test subject?, as close to the Gyre as is deemed safe. Even at this distance it is a struggle to keep the vessel from being dragged into the eddy. The greedstruck is lowered into the water and enough cable given to let him swim to his object of obsession. As if possessed he moves at incredible speed for a Dwarf his girth, straight into the open arms of the Gyre. The cable goes taut, immediately he is winched back in. He cries, he screams, he begs to be let back into the water. He was so close! he tells them, just a few feet more and he knows he will be within arms reach! With trepidation he is lowered back in, and watched as he greedily dives. The cable again goes taut, though slackens shortly after. Worried the Dwarves work the winch, which draws in disturbingly easily. Their fears are confirmed when the cable is brought in sans Dwarf, its end ragged. The Guldfar's Gaze shifts as fast as it can, as Dwarves peer through their spyglasses for any sight of him, but alas he cannot be found. Word goes out to be on the lookout for his body upon the shores in the coming days.
(>>4146711 With the dawn comes a strange discovery on the shores off [pentagon], a Dwarf with flaxen beard, wearing a queer suit which sprouts metal ropes from his back. More worryingly, his face is twisted into a frozen smile.)

>>4147293
>Karnis
Confirming Cravic news, the Dwarves fall silent on this front, what could they be up to? Lest they spring upon an unsuspecting calm, Karnis are sent south to the wall. And should they not become complacent, they are drilled daily. A drill of a different sort begins in Labyrinth, driven by Karnis treadmills, forged of a great deal of meteoric iron. Though not as agile as an Ant, a device of such a size can create a tunnel of her diameter faster than even a hundred Re'Karo.

>>4147474
>B'yogi
More Children of the Three, a name to cover their material nature perhaps, are born, attended by B'yogi squires to morph them, for their gifts wane upon rebirth. They are created now as a newborn H'yomi, nude, though without that unnecessary, dangling appendage on the front. For them, armour shall be forged, and weapons also. They shall guard against the ills of the world!
Etching! Etching is the key! For though glyphs of turquoise paint are the most powerful, they are singular, and don't do very well on ceilings. But an etching! Why, it may be etched anywhere! A tool is carved of the finest turquoise, that magical stone of Shine, with which the first etching shall be made. Into the wooden beams of a H'yomi home's door is etched the first of these new glyphs. Away, the B'oo hide, waiting to see if their glyph will work. When the H'yomi arrives home, he opens his door and is startled when it produces screeches and flashing lights. He grips his chest and breathes sharply, eyes wide as cheering B'oos leap from the hedges in celebration.

>>4147613
>Tarn
There had been silence from the mines for over a month now. Though the Tarn had thought such a thing would be a joyous outcome, unease grows as paranoia of what the Dwarves may be concocting spirals upwards.
One of the Soghoian contraptions is refurbished to the best of Tarnic abilities and moved north to virgin ground. Here they have been periodic sightings of will o' the wisps, which translated Frog-folk texts claim is the foundation of this industry. The drill is tapped into the marsh, and a few wisps of stinking gas make their way into the hold tank, waiting to be siphoned. In the excitement of it all, the Tarn had forgotten that such a feat (that is to say, taking the marsh gas from the hold tank and putting it into portable tanks) is yet to be copied. (You do not possess the knowledge or technology to safely siphon the gas, or fabricate portable tanks.)
Heavy ballistae may fire a wide range of bolts, including ones of solid iron. There are designs floated of a repeating ballista.

>>4149422
>Meluzina
The offer is readily accepted by the Meluz, for any help in the realisation in this new dream of theirs is greatly appreciated.
With Dwarven interests elsewhere in their kingdom, Meluz working the fields are left to their own accords. When payment for work done does not arrive, nor goats to transport the grain south, Meluz take what they can carry home, and with them the knowledge the Dwarves had taught them. North of Megálo is where many of the Snakes who had lived so long in Ashen lands settle, building for themselves a farming commune of sorts. Those living there are immediately noticeable, for they maintain a strange mixture of Dwarven & Meluz tradition. They sport beards, a dark complexion, and a reverence for both Castor & Therkuunaz. They speak accented Meluzian, filled with Ashen loanwords, and are known to be boisterous lovers of ale. The Dwarves have certainly left their mark on them.

>>4149451
>Tidal
Mines for the copper and tin resources within Tidal borders are dug, and with them is constructed a forge to smelt the two into bronze. These bronze bars can then be worked into all manner of things, or else traded on the vast Tidal network for their purity is unmatched.

>>4149541
>Vossik
[D] Their cause is as yet unknown, many worry it is a punishment from the Lightbringer, for terrible landslides bring rock and earth down into the outskirts of Renthum Voss and all around. Gilden Voss too is damaged, and the tremors bring down a handful of older kosts in Coertyha Voss. Mining halts in the three mines in the area for fear of collapse.
(Siege action will be a part of upcoming war post)
Hill farms spring up around the aqueducts near Gilden Voss, and with them mixed Elezen & Hacmosi kosts. For though there is an unspoken hierarchy of races within the New Vossik Republic, these societal norms fracture at the edges.

END OF SCENE TWO.

>>4149628
Action 1: Natural Gas
Innovation rises to a frenetic pace as business interests and government alike sense the verge of success. Like sharks to a feeding frenzy, rich and poor alike race to be the first to store and transport natural gas. Crude copies of the refurbished soghoian pipeworks pop up all over the province, and go down in flames just as often. Constant failure, however, yield constant improvements. The Tarns slowly, painfully, learn how to channel and store the natural gas in Meluzina pottery. It’s a crude solution, but this should allow just enough gas to be stored for the Meluzina to begin their own advancements

Action 2: Repeating ballistas
The Tarns create a downsized, repeating ballista, designed to provide saturation fire on advancing Dwarven columns.

>>4149620
A celebration is needed! For we are stronger ever before. Hope is becoming stronger and we must nurture it.
1. Jubilation is quickly becoming a jewel of our land. It attracts much H'yomi to study;giving us much needed knowledge, money, and . But more must be done! The emotion of Happy radiating from the citizens there feeds us. We shall improve the quality of life there; building better homes, more stores, inns/taverns, bath-houses, cleaner streets, stronger defenses and more!
2. The creation of the Children of the Three is our militaristic pride. Though small in size, their power isn't to be under-estimated. A reform is needed to better integrate them and advance battle tactics for all defense and offense operations.
>>4149213
Many of whispers are heard all around the room. Hmm, a mutual relationship with the Shell Ones? So soon? The B'yogi are a bit reluctant to move so quickly, but the Small Ones, from what was reported, were nice creatures. So may be the Shell Ones will be too.
*In a great booming voice*
"We have come to a agreement, Shell One. We will allow your kind to visit the city of Jubilation. You may relax, buy, or studying there. If you need further fulfillment of diplomatic needs, the Morph in the Temple of the Three will answer for us. Do not make us revoke this privilege." And then silence. The Shell Ones are guided out of the room and are allowed to explore with observers watching them if they wish.

>>4149616
Those laborers who are put out of work from the use of the mills are sent to other tasks around Denza. The Dzen-Sah was well aware of the potential of job loss, and thus other work was set out for those workers.

Actions:
1. The Varke-Sah herself opens the vaults. With her Tech-Guard, she enters. The cool stale air enters her lungs, almost causing her to cough, though she manages to stifle it beforehand. Walking the halls of the great vault, she comes across many old items of technology. Handguns, Flamesprayers of older design, a salvaged airship, and many other technological marvels her nation, and Clan, had made. After hours inside, she emerges with...

2.
>>4147327
With rumors of an untapped land to the east, an armed expedition is called for. In the coming weeks, diplomats of the FHR approach the Vossik elves of whom they neighbor to request permission to pass through their lands with this armed contingent, well aware of the consiquences they would face if they did so unannounced. If permission is granted, then they go on this expedition.

>>4149616

With the mines dug into the curios and unique resource in the south and a proper place to extract the plentiful supply of salt, the focus of mining goes north. Specifically to the remaining four deposits that existed in Llychlyn. Focus would be given to these places, specifically the Zinc and Copper, with the lead and coal considered to be something that could wait due to the view that, while certainly something that would be sold and useful for the economy, those two resources would be least likely to do the least of the four deposits available. Additionally, the work on the Zinc mine would be done so that it, hopefully, caused the least interference to the forest as possible. As more than just a good deal of hunters from Lunedannedd would be quite upset if it did.

Regardless, while work was done digging in the underground, work would also be done above ground. Specifically in the creation of farms in the area's shown to be very fruitful, mainly the ones south of Allfshys. Any lessons, if any, that could be learned from the Republic would be utilized in its creation and operation. Despite what one might initially think, while a decent amount of food would be grown, the main priority in these farms would be more economical crops, if any were suitable for the area. These being those 'grapes' the Republic people spoke of and other plants that can be used to make alcoholic drinks, Cywarch for its cloth and the bonus its seeds are edible, and any other plant possible to import and grow in Llychlyn that produces goods that would be worth quite a bit in the many ports of the mainland. Soon, once everything was set up, she could ask clan Llewelyn to create a fleet of ships with similar designs to the Teithiwr. And with them, a proper trade fleet for Llychlyn, which would hopefully mean that Llychlyn would be able to put itself in a great position as a trade power of the west, increase prosperity, make an abundance of resources for Llychlyn to gain through trade and arguably less importantly, would make Eheubryds projects much more easy to get the resources for. It also would potentially mean she could divert some resources to help others works of art.

Meanwhile, in the land of the Tarn, Blodwyn waits, a mix of impatience and anxious worry growing. At least no new news is good news...

Action One. Continue making mines, Zinc and Copper are prioritized.

Action Two. Create a farm in the lands considered fertile, said farm will focus on economic crops.

>>4150563
The Vossaya has no compelling reason to deny a small party of adventurers access. Provided the number of armed men passing through are no greater than 100 they are permitted.

>>4150765
>>4149616
With permission granted, 100 men exactly, the 2nd Company of the FHRDF, nicknamed the "Flaming Tongue" makes it's way with scores of unarmed support personnel. Their numbers are 40 Storm Infantry, the 31st "Line Crackers", 30 Pike infantry, the 45th "Horse Breakers", 20 Shock Riflemen, the 3rd "Hole Punchers", and 10 Flamesprayers, the Infamous 1st "Elf Scorchers". That lineage of troopers calls back to the purge of the Elven ghetto of old Andreth. They would make their way out to the lands, occasionally having the support personnel stop and ask about these lands inside the Vossik lands as they make their way.

>>4150072
Also, QM, I request a lore/idea, please.

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>>4149616

>Action 1: Roadbuilding Continues

Road links in the south are not nearly as developed as those in the north, and so a new program of road-building is planned to link the 'belt' across the country from Æblekag through to Voguzdun; and then the idea expanded upon with further plans made after requests from the dyeworks industries to continue these new roads by linking in Lapizkad and Alumjorg. A request is also made by the Gnavkop clan to have their town connected, though this request gets shuffled to the bottom of the priority order.


>Action 2: Greybeard's Armour

With so many more Ashenbeards venturing south to Zarjotun'torzdun, many Gylden craftsmen wonder what use they might plan to make of the mountain's natural magma-forges, and how they might cope if so many are pressed together in the near-igniteary environment. These craftsmen look to making sturdy Armour that might protect the Ashen travelers against the fires and the heat from the innards of the Grey Cloud Peak, using both Gylden smithing knowledge and the 'Grey Mountain Beard' deposit found near Dukkezop to craft an armour that is resistant to heat and flame and will protect the Dwarf inside for a while from even the burning air - though they do not imagine such a thing would be very comfortable.

>>4149620
Actions:
-The assembled forces of the Union are something to behold, but as impressive as they are it would be a waste to rush in without a clear picture as to the enemy's situation. The barbarous oppressors have been acting uncharacteristically which has made the swarm cautious. What oppressive schemes could they be concocting? This must be answered to ensure the success of our troops. Gathering their reconnaissance forces, all available Zo'Karn and Re'Karo scouts are assembled and tasked with scouring the dwarven lands from the air as well as below. Whatever the Dwarves are hiding, be it in open fields or the dark depths of the mountains, the Karnis will lay it bare.

-Another secret pokes at the Matriarch's curiosity. The Celestial Core remains secure in its meteor chamber, so close yet simultaneously unobtainable. At least, for now. A team of scholars are sent along with a small work force to aid them in their work. Once they reach the site, the ants begin the work of carving out a small reasearch outpost at the foot of what's left of the Meteor. From here the Scholars will study the effects of the core as closely as they can, starting with inspecting the corpses of the unfortunate ants that were first to fall in order to learn how to prevent others from following their sisters' ill fates.

>>4150072
>Diplo: B'yogi
The journey of the diplomats is a tale that fascinates every corner of the Swarm it reaches. Stories of strange yet wondrous shadows, their mysterious cities, and even their otherworldly abilities quickly spread throughout the colonies. To some, the dark tunnels seem even more frightening, fearing whatever may lurk within them. Yet the Diplomats spoke so highly of the B'yogi once they returned that many Karnis walked the halls hoping a friendly shadow would show themselves. It didn't take long for a rumor to spread, that if you left a jar of honeydew in a dark corner, a B'yogi would take it and leave a gift in return when you weren't looking. The curiosity this encounter had sparked led the Swarm sending more of their diplomats to the port of Jubilation with gifts of a different sort this time. Once they arrived in port, the diplomats make their way to the Mayor and request that they be allowed to stay among them for a while. With them they brought some of the finest jewelery and sculptures the artisans of the swarm can produce, along with some texts covering a range of topics on the ants culture as well as their history. They wished to teach it all to the B'yogi, and learn their own in return.

>>4150072

>Diplomacy: B'yogi
Kadran is curious about the curious B'Yogi. Though self-admittedly otherworldly, they seem to wish to learn, and become... he unfurls a map of common sort, a portside vendor's sea-chart that seems some approximation of Tarnic, Deepaun and Gylden knowledge, cheaply cobbled together - and asks where in this world it is they have sailed from? And would they be interested in receipt of visitors themselves?

Short lived in the eyes of the dwarves, the Ashenbeard Kingdom has reigned. But such is the nature of the dwarves that another kingdom should fall once more.
Beginning in the south, the war weary and neglected city of Zarjotun'torzdun makes their voice heard by declaring itself a separate entity, prompting a short series of skirmishes with those loyal to the Kingdom. With resources spread thin, the capital is unable to deal with the issue and does not bother calling upon their allies for their internal affairs.
With trade reduced, morale steadily faltering, and rising religious contention, this rebellion spreads like a sickness to the capital.
Starting first in the overworld, Tula'krel claims the northern land and independence from the Ashen, leading to a violent conflict in the lands so commonly watered in blood.
The underworld soon turns to ruin with dwarves revolting over the state of the realm and declaring their dismay both vocally and physically.
Tunnels and chambers are painted red with gore. Echoes of shouts drown out the cries of agony through the expansive underworld.
Fighting but a short time, though the bloodshed immense, loyal servants of the Invuld falter, and finally the king falls in battle against revolting citizens, making his final stand atop the silver throne where the floor cannot be seen under the layers of corpses.
With the king dead and open rebellion spread throughout the entirety of the realm, the Ashenbeard Kingdom is no more.

What remains are a bloody people claiming authority over whatever they can. Once prosperous mines become tribes of dwarves, while most surface dwarves lose hope, returning to the underworld, but many still clinging to their claims in the overworld.
Cities try to maintain order and fill now vacant homes with those fleeing from the overworld, but the future is not bright for them, for in time, the bloody struggle to unite will commence once more as it always has.
>Fallen Kingdom

(Dwarves isolate themselves, only interacting with others by force. Erase all borders. Dissolve mines or form into tribes, cities remain as large tribes. Exempt from this is the new Taggtorz Invulden, from Zarjotun'torzdun (now red, or orange/redorange))

-

Regarding the Gylden: All trade is ceased with the Ashen. Trade may exist with the Taggtorz.

Regarding the Meluzina: Vassalization is void. The majority of dwarves flee south, but others will remain in the northern port if allowed.

Regarding the Tidal: Trade continues in a limited state in the southern port if a new trade deal is made to renew the now void deal.
Trade in the north is in the hands of the Meluzina.

>>4149616
>>4153553
The news of Ashen implosion brings great joy and relief to the Tarns. Their army begins to reorganize, not for a battle of survival, but of conquest. The rich forests of the south are eye'd greedily, as is the iron mine that was the source of the whole conflict. After all, they took our iron. Shouldn't we take theirs?

>>4153425
Hmmm, the Shell Ones to stay a while in Jubilation to study? It sounds tempting, but to allow foreign H'yomi unsupervised seems careless. We will allow it on the condition you agree to be watch by us while you stay here. We will not tell others what you do in private as well. Though these gifts! Honeydew was flow!
>>4153526
F'roto explained they come from the (East or West. I forget the direction). Visitors may travel and stay in the port city of Jubilation for a time. For more in-land exploration, they will need to submit to B'yogi laws, be observed by the Watchers, and strengthen their minds in the Temple of the Three.

>>4149616
1.
With the recent silence from the dwarves, the bristling hordes of Rut'ra upon the Cravic Isle bark and raise their hackles as they push through the narrow tunnel, preparing to push through an into the dwarven plains.

>moving my army to the ant forest, waiting to push into dwarven land.

2. In Nu Delta, the beginnings for the Grist'lung defensive nodules begin construction. The stable flesh outlooks, lung compressors, and bone barrels to be set up.

>War
Scouting of the dwarven lands is conducted as black clouds of Rautlet stretch across the wind, casting Cravic eyes over the land.

>>4154002
1.
>nvm already moved armies to ant wall.

Shroom man weapon research/ flesh spores

>>4149628
>action 1:
Fulfill our desire for fine naval copper by digging a lead mine. However we take care for we have already realized the negative effects this mineral can have on our crops, and since we dont need as much as the copper and tin we only take as much as is safely possible.
>action 2:
The news of the interesting chemical compounds which foreign powers have produced as upstarted an interest in chemistry. Thus a great chemical research laboratory is founded in Bothrio, many books are written collecting together all the knowledge about the properties of compounds which we know of, research on chemistry from foreign nations is also sought after with extra copies being produced by the magicians of the Book Factory.
>war action:
With our new chemical research centre it is imperative that we attempt to find something which can poison the flesh devils. And with new chemical byproducts available from our mines we try to see if anything can harm these creatures in the long and short term so that their digging in will be in vain.

>>4149628
>1: integrate the gas into our hot air balloon design
using an air-tight canister of swamp gas, we design a contraption that allows a hot air balloon pilot to control his ascent and descent with precision in mind.

>2: construct the first underground meluz city
Hearing of emeralds in the swamp lands, we see this as a grand opportunity to do some digging. At the same time, we decide that an underground city would be the most accommodating place for our miners to live.
(put 'er in our swamp sector)
The town is named exóryxi pólis.

RAIN OF ASH

-To the Gylden-
Small groups of Ashen Dwarves have long worked and lodged in the woods and marsh of the lowlands. But as the Invulden collapsed around them, they sought protection with their golden brothers, for they are knowledgeable in the guarding of the overworld. Many of course were called by blood to battle in the underworld, leaving behind their families in the arms of the Gylden. Few return, and those who do are changed, with a weariness in their eyes, their grey beards shot through with white. Ulzunteg'dun, miraculously, was spared the brunt of the onslaught, being so far from the capital battleground. This too is entrusted to their brother Dwarves. Of course, the passing of the lowlands, is the passing of the Vossik intruders, those squatting Elves who must be done away with.

-To the Meluz-
Their vassalage ends as internal conflict rages, left with little more than a passing glance. Dwarves leave the fields of Tula'krel barren, the forges of Zedfeld cold. The Meluz are left wondering why their lord & ally have abandoned them, save the handful of Ashen at the port of Otedkl'latgjal, though perhaps a name change is in order.

-To the Tarn-
There continues to be silence from the mines. Interest peaks as the bells ring, for the first steel cap is broken through followed by dozens of heavy steps, then again there is quiet. The second steel cap is never tried by the silver beards, and neither are picks heard again. There is alarm when illness strikes in Jaakal and Xycthos, stomach cramping, vomiting & diarrhoea, the cause is deemed to be impure water from the mountain rivers.

-To the Flesh & To the Ants-
Patrols slow, and eventually are called away entirely. Curious Ants find the hill defences too are abandoned. Cravers likewise find the Ashen's northern wall undwarfed. Ants in their tunnel are no longer hounded by bolt and stone, even their fort goes unmolested.

-To the Elves-
When the Vossik forces arrive to break the siege, they find the kosts unharmed. When the residents are queried, they tell of how the Dwarves were soon called away, leaving not a soul to harass them. No Dwarves have been back since. They note however that the waters from their rivers have been muddied as of late.

END OF INTERLUDE.

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1. Salt and Fish production
The south has ample supplies of fish and the undeveloped salt flats go into use. The intent is to salt and pickle fish for long transportation up into the Elezen Holdings. Some wise Hacmosi scholar barrel and store large surpluses of salt fish and pork for use as rations aboard ships or for an army on the march. The result is that the food supply of the Republic, but particularly that of the south, is improved by development of the salt mines and fisheries.


2. Ship Design
The Terratan scholar were always ones to come up with new ideas. They were surprised when the newest design in ship did not come from their own harbor, but from that of Volodek. Decades of use as a trade port had taught the Elves of that land a thing or two about ship design, and they had come up with their own. Much larger than the oared galleys that had been common is northern harbors. These southern ships were wide hulking beasts that moved exclusively with cotton sail . They resembled more a bent bow than the sleek straight lined ships of the older Terratan make. The new ships were both faster and could carry significantly more cargo with less crew than the older galleys could, and they even weathered deeper water better than the galleys could. Adoption was far from quick. Volodek had very limited construction space and Terratan dockyards were reluctant to build new ships. It would take more effort to turn these into a commonly seen ship.

>>4155375
Diplomacy: Meluz

The Gylden inform the Meluz that, with the collapse of the Ashenbeard nation due to internal issues, the Gylden oath to stand against the attackers of a Dwarven state is ended as there is no longer a northern Dwarven nation they are attacking. There are many Gylden Dwarves who volunteer to help hold the line and protect the borders, if the Meluz are happy to have these Dwarves living among them and farming the plains; but for the foreseeable future the Gylden Kingdom will not be able to assist in any offensive actions.

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SCENE THREE

(War post very soon)

>>4149740
>Tarn
Tarnic greed swells with the promise of untapped resources just waiting for the right Man to leech them from the earth. Perhaps to extinguish such a terrible trait, B'ikka allows all but the initial venture to be cast alight. Though a useful stopgap, Meluz pottery provides only so much containment for the elusive gas. Even with tight lids covered over with clay or wax, gas always escapes, and Tarnish shipments of marsh gas arrive with less than a third of what was dispatched. Still, it is better than nothing.
The plans for the repeating ballista are immediately put into production, including a scaled down device for attaching to crossbows, though in this case they severely lessen the impact of individual bolts.

>>4150072
>B'yogi
[L] As B'yogi soul research slowly disseminates into the public, a fringe theory becomes more and more accepted by the populace. That is, though a H'yomi is a body containing a soul, a B'oo is a soul free from its body. The religious ramifications are just as often ignored by the average B'oo, who prefer to go about their day without such a heavy topic weighing on them.
With the loving help of the resident H'yomi, Jubilation is improved upon in every way possible. In typical B'yogi fashion, entire streets of the existing city built by H'yomi hands, are copied and rebuilt by B'oo. Shadow, Man & Elf mingle happily.
The few Children of the Three are taught all the B'yogi know of military might and strategy. It is in passing that the idea is floated to ask the friends of Simhyn what more can be done, especially the Garn! (>>4149740)

>>4150563
>FHR
... Half a handful of dessicated Luftum seeds. By now they are nearly half a century old, and whatever small spark of life they contained is long dead. There is mourning throughout Clan Varke, whose dream of surpassing the glory of the FHS takes a heavy blow.
The expedition east is approved by the Daiimad and the Vossaya. Given the well maintained roads through the mountains of the Vossik Republic, the easiest route is over them. From Port Senday a short boat ride takes the force to Terrata, down the long road to Dravana and another winding road into the capital of the Elves, Renthum. After minor resupplies, they head along the northern pass to Tyrhen, and finally into the hill farms there. With their journey only now beginning, they find they are watched from the north by curious Karnis (>>4153425) as they continue east into the barren fields of what was once Tula'krel. Here they discover an oddity, the broken halves of a red granite obelisk, dragged behind a high stone wall. Yet another curiosity are a set of enormous copper doors set into the carved face of the mountain. They are locked, perhaps barred from the other side, and cannot be shifted with any amount of force. Camp is made in nearby abandoned barns.

>>4150759
>Llychlyn
Two more mines are sunk, filling the heads of Clans Nist & Howell with zipping potential. Farms fill the plains, long grape vines & fields of hemp most of all. The grapes of this venture are noted for being particularly tart and chalky, producing wine much different to that of the Remnant Peoples.

>>4151638
>Gyldenthrong
The Gylden road network is not noted for it's grace, but it's eminent practicality. Roads are not built superfluously, heading directly to where they must with little heed for the natural rolling beauty of their land. The same can not be said for the many wooden bridges over their equally abundant rivers, for within almost every Lowland Dwarf it seems there is an engineer.
Though armour in name, it is not in design. Working the mountain's beard into metal proves a fool's errand, yet the relatively younger field of weaving takes the challenge eagerly. The fibres can be so easily meshed into the cloth they already produce, though it does limit the dyeing capabilities once created. The fireproof cloth is a wonder of Gylden creation, and fetches its weight in gold. What is of concern however is that miners and weavers of the stuff invariably cough and hack, those who work with the stuff all day also develop the colloquially named "weavers' thumb" which is a swelling in the fingertips making detailed or delicate work very difficult.

>>4153425
>Karnis
The swarm cover old Ashen lands. They find the fields barren, the many chimneys cold. The Re'Karo work their way from the mountain fort, relaying back that all around them activity has ceased. There is however something minor in the south-west, though not the usual rumblings of the Dwarves, being much smaller in scale. Breaking back into the thoroughfare the Ants long ago did before them, the Leeches sense no movement, only the taste of spilled blood which they greedily lap up.
Digging a station into the warm sands the researchers study their fallen sisters. Their corpses are in a state of decay from the inside out. Their yellow-blood is darkened, their long heart decomposing within their abdomens. It is as if the very air was a terrible poison.

>>4154002
>Cravers
The spores of the trapped Shroom-man cause the flesh of it's prison to behave erratically; Blood vessels redirect, immune systems turn a blind eye, and a new Shroom begins to develop within the skin. After a month, a horde of tiny rice-grain sized Shroom-men fall from the walls, and begin their own mindless wandering.
A platform of bone anchors the project to the earth, as flesh builds upon it into the sky.

>>4155358
>Tidal
The lead resource is tapped and easily smelted into bars, being the first source mined the stuff may well fetch a premium to save others from the dangers of mining it. Metallurgists on Bothrio isle find that in the correct amounts, an alloy of primarily tin, copper, and trace lead, produce the hardy metal of pewter which is easily shaped. Perhaps also the first of it's kind, the Institute of Chemical Research is founded, collating all the readily available knowledge on the make up of metals and the like.

>>4155375
>Meluzina
(In regards to your first action, I'm gonna need a little more than that, dude. Give detail as an extra post or in your next turn, or it's a wasted action)
Exóryxi rises as a sister city, behind the wall, to Dynatós. For now the fledgling town takes whoever wishes to come, giving it a reputation as a little rough-and-tumble, to put it politely.

>>4155434
>Vossik
At the delta of the Antome river, bordering those shadow things and where the fresh and salt water mix, grow a number of fisheries & hatcheries. The fish of the river and sea are both plentiful here, and with salt being mined mere miles north, they may be quickly processed for sale as far away as Tyrhen.
Though perhaps they are loathed to admit it, the Volodek carracks draw from designs of every visitor to the trade city; Gylden, Tidal, Tarnic, even the occasional Remnant or Fanyuic. They incorporate only the best of each, producing a distinctly Elven design. Long may they sail.

DIPLO
And in the south, where the once noble Ashbeards find solace in their holy mountain, a new Invuld rises. Known for his fiery beard and lazy eye, Zanok Urengratt, King Copperbeard takes his throne. With winterberries his subjects dye their grey beards red as a sign of respect to their new lord.

END OF SCENE THREE.

>>4157746
1. The Varke-Sah is not so easily dissuaded. Such a feat as the recreation of the Flamesprayer Mark 4-1 was no easy task. Thus, she personally approaches the Kahad-Sajuuk with a request. To convince the Belde to practice the magics of their chosen Goddess, Denok, so that there may be potential to breath life into the seeds some time, eventually. The FHR shall grow to higher heights then the FHS ever did...

2. The camp set up ultimately, over time, more personnel are sent over, though as per the agreement, only 100 armed at a time. Raw materials are brought along, and forges are set up to produce tools and materials, and before long, a town springs up. A town by the name of Vadna, under the oversight of one Commader Alek Idad Vay the 4th, a Half-Awoo veteran of the FHRDF and descendant of the Commander of whom initially made contact with the Awoo in the world that was. The Varken among the population set about studying the obelisk, as well as the copper doors, though without proper facilities, no progress is made other then, "They're there, and we know they exist."

>>4157747
With the work on opening a number of mines almost coming to a close, work would be directed to a new project that was a part of Eheubryd's plan. Transport. Specifically the kind of transport Llewelyn was known for. The request for Llewelyn to work on the creation of a number of ships, designed for the transport of goods and based on the old Teithiwr, except with a wider beam and, if possible, longer length. Additionally, work would be done that it could carry some cargo on the deck without sacrificing the ability for it to be propelled by oar power rather than just sail. Speaking of sails, given the new design, an additional sail would be added more forward, and the aftcastle much smaller than the Teithiwr. This kind of ship would, after some time in construction, after finally being finished the first ship of this verity would be known as the Gwerthwr, and like the fishing boats of old, many Teulu clans who had an interest in getting involved in this whole trade thing and could afford it would buy them. It would be very soon for Eheubryd's plan to actually start coming to fruition. There would only need to be a few improvements, and perhaps a few new farms made for other goods.

Meanwhile, with the mines, work would be done so that the mine getting to the led was made with care not to ruin the natural beauty of the place, with a much greater emphasis than even the southern forest. As this was done, the newly made farms would see a decent amount of the wine made left to become fine vintage and experimented upon to find what is the best taste, with no one really agreeing, and some just leaving the wine be content to drink it a hundred years down the line. Additionally, many more in Llychlyn enjoy having something to eat along side their main meal of venison, rabbit, fish or any other meat. As while the farms are more directed to the creation of economic plants, like grapes for wine, the fact there were centralized farming area's, and with some idea's borrowed from the Republic, there's certainly a good deal of vegetables and some herbs to add upon ones dish.

>Action One. Create new merchant ships based on the Teithiwr, but enlarged and designed for cargo rather than exploration. The Gwerthwr 'class'.

>Action Two. Dig mines into the last two locations, and make sure to not disrupt the beauty Fanw has given us in the form of the more temperate of the two forests in Llychlyn.

>>4157746

King Gvendon has not traditionally been a Dwarf to let emotion rule him, but as the news filters in from various diplomatic and trade contacts - and from haunted refugees, bringing with them all the worldly treasures they can carry on their person - his face darkens, brow furrowing and teeth grinding behind his golden beard. The scale of the lost and the waste and the overwhelming stupidity is simply sickening to him, the petulance shown disgusting him. For how many decades, had the Gylden labored with their sweat and work and lifeblood to prop up and preserve the mountain Kingdom and her dependencies? And all that is now thrown away. Only Ulzunteg'dun remains, and that town in any case had been as Gylden as it had been Ashen. He accepts the offers of fealty from the town, and from the loggers and copper-miners, but of the Ashenbeard kingdom as a whole his thoughts turn sour, and after returning from mid-day inebriations he looks to the gilded Golaetur'kot of the ancestral wall of the the Guldhand dynasty. He had wished to be the king to finally resolve the quabbles of the Ashtarnic borders. Instead, the northern kingdom had fallen on his watch. He can feel his ancestors looking down on him, even from before the days of the Golaetur'kot. He looks to a disc of purest gold there, ancient, mined from the original seam of the first gift. A plump and bearded Dwarven face stares back at him from the gold, wreathed in grain; the visage of Høfeber the Guldhanded. And he wonders what his far-distant ancestor would have done.

And as the days goes by, the worse the news. The Gylden had specifically asked the Ashenbeards to show restraint and clemency upon their other borders; instead we now learn that they had massacred innocent settlers upon the borders of the Vossik Republic. And taking the effort for the fouling of the Tarnic rivers when all about them a kingdom is in collapse shows such a particular degree of petulance and spite that King Gvendon proclaims that Snehvid must have taken hold of the minds of the Kingdom fathers. Who else, when they had lurked so long in the dark beneath the cold peaks?

Trembling with a barely restrained anger, he calls his scribe. The Kingdom of the Ashenbeards as-was is to be officially denounced for seeking conflict, and for the wanton cruelties it had shown to others. The runestone of brotherhood near Ulzunteg'dun is to be split; but to be left standing, to show what once was. Any Ashenbeards who wish for Gylden protection are still free to offer their fealty; but no longer will the Gylden be bound to the defense of cousins who seek out such mindless conflict.

>>4157748
With the Dwarven Kingdom now relegated to a tiny colony the Invul has lost poppularity with his people. So much blood was shed for nothing? For defeat? Yet he still sits on his throne covered in luxury profiting from riches.

> Action :1 and 2 the Bloodred Revolution (Perrtlurk Akkghar)
- Akkhar - Rage-event = Revolution

The Akkhar started with the Dwarves of the now greatly reduced Kingdom demanding the Ivul take penance for his crimes and incompetence. They demand the ancient Dwarven law be enacted where a failed Chieftain of a Tribe would pay penance by forging a 100 sword and shields alone in the Forge as a sign of devotion to Therkuunaz. With the demand ignored both by the Invul and Head of the Faith the Dwarves rise in revolution. Killing the King by tossing him into the Vulcano for Therkuunaz himself to judge, and with overwhelming numbers decimate any remaining loyalists. Establishing the "Vuaetur" a council of Elders which will preside both over the state and the religion.

>>4153579
>Diplomacy: Tarn

King Gvendon cuts quite a haunted figure as he calls the Tarnic ambassador in Gyldholm to his presence. Once there, the Dwarven king sighs behind his beard, and shakes his head. And he offers his apologies for the disease now ravishing Jaakal and Xycthos, offering to send further shipments of ale, mead and ciders eastward to give the citizens more opportunities to drink until the flow of the rivers has cleared.

Though there has not yet been any definitive proof, the circumstances behind the outbreak leave it pretty clear in his mind that this is either one final deathbed act by the Ashenbeard kingdom, or an action taken independently by the silver Dwarf community at the source of the river; and the King states his assumptions as such. Although he would dearly love to try and offer these northern Dwarves on his new borders protection in the hope of reforming them into civilized Gyldenfolk; he understands quite succinctly that the Tarn now have right of vengeance for yet more wrongs done against them by the Ashbeards. Moreover, the runestone of brotherhood with the Ashen has been sundered with the collapse of the Kingdom. The Gylden will offer sanctuary to any Dwarves willing to abide by the Gyldenlaws, but will not now come to the aid of the tribes that destroyed this kingdom, not unless these Dwarves pledge themselves anew to the Gylden state.

He does ask, however, that whatever the Tarn do, they take into consideration respecting the face of Therkuunaz. Although Therkuunaz is not officially a Gylden god, there are many in the kingdom for whom the Ashen god has taken up a role a god of industry and the forge, and many more who see Therkuunaz as just the dim Ashen reflection and name of Guldfar's true glories. He also asks if the Gylden might have permission to send expeditions into the mountains that might mean going through Tarnic lands; to attempt contact with isolated Dwarf populations with the intent of bringing them southward, and to secure Dwarven historical and cultural artifacts.

Moving onto other matters, King Gvendon tells word of the south around Zarjoten'torzdun, where a new Dwarven Kingdom has declared itself. Though he dearly hopes to forge a new peace with the Dwarves of the south, the news that has so far reached his ears worries him more then it comforts; rumours of the stench of Fanaticism, and taloned cannibalistic monsters on a leash.

To that end, King Gvendon wishes to offer the Tarn a new treaty. Gyldendwarves and Tarnmen have a long history of trade and mutual co-operation, managed despite the tying of Gylden hands in so many Ashen oaths. Now that the Ashenbeards have fallen, he wishes to offer the Tarn a treaty of mutual respect and defense. We shall recognize one another's borders, and pledge to come to each other's aid in the event of aggression. Let our only future conflicts be through fair commerce.

>>4155434
>Diplomacy: Vossik

Upon finding that a fraction of their theoretical Ashen inheritance lies in land that went so untouched that the Elves managed to build a town there before the Ashen ever realised, and on land that lies to the north of the main river channel, and so would have been won from the flesh-worms by the efforts of Hacmos, not Ashenbeards...

The Gylden hand the Vossik some newly drawn maps their lands and inform the Vossik that, with the collapse of the Ashenbeard nation, the Gylden Kingdom is dropping all inherited claims to the land on the northern bank around the elven town. It lies on the Vossik side of the main channel, and as far as the histories they can piece together show, was won by Elves in the historical war against the worms. The united Dwarven armies only fought on the southern bank, after all.

They add that they will attempt to find out which Ashen Dwarf gave the orders for the attacks on ignorant settlers . Given the nature of the collapse and the state of the Ashenbeard realm, they concede it very likely that the Dwarf in question is dead; nonetheless, whilst the possibility of justice remains, the Gylden will pursue it. Let Guldfar's glow shine deep into the dark places of the world, and bring them the light of justice.

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>>4157746

>Diplomacy: Ashenbeard Remnants
The Gylden start approaching to the local Ashenbeards to investigate the attacks on the Vossik republic's settlers in the marshlands, trying to establish exactly what took place, and which Ashbeards gave these orders. The Gylden invite the Vossik ( >>4155434 ) to send representatives who can help us determine the truth of such matters.


>Action 1: Kalnzkag'kupkurg

The walled town of Kalnzkag'kupkurg is to be established upon the Kingdom's new northern frontier as a settlement for the copper-miners and woodsmen, as the Ashen among them learn to live above ground beneath Guldfar's light.


>Action 2: Retrieve the Mint

The Mint was an Dwarven treasure of ancient days first discovered by the Silverbeards beneath Aeuntirgardun, predating even their own mountain kingdom. Through the decades it has provided pure coinage for both the Dwarven realms. Now, with the Ashenbeard kingdom broken and fallen, it is decreed vital for the preservation of Dwarven cultural heritage that this ancient machine be retrieved for the Gyldenthrong. The Gylden Dwarves know it to be moveable, for the Ashen themselves had it moved from their capitol to chambers below a more outlying mountain. They also know the location, for it has been commonplace knowledge on Dwarven maps, and the flow of coins from it had only ceased with the breaking of the Ashen Kingdom.

To this end, a retrieval team is assembled. Dwarven engineers from Kent'koldrag, who would best be able to understand the workings and mechanisms and keep the device repaired and operational. Dwarves from the logistics and transport companies, who had kept the Gylden forces armed and fed throughout the northern war, tasked with providing for the expedition and also for transporting the device once retrieved. Veteran Dwarven warriors; for it is unknown to what extent the madness that destroyed the northern kingdom might still be present in any we might encounter along the way. Ashenbeard defectors, including both miners and those from the coinage-carriers, who would best know the lay of the land and how to pass securely and without incident. And, leading the expedition, the Thane of Dukkezop; a rare Gylden Dwarf who well knows mountainous terrain.

The objective is simply to retrieve the mint, and bring it back with them to Gyldholm. Offers of sanctuary within the Gylden lands are to be offered to any Ashen Dwarves they might meet who the Thane judges receptive, but this is not the primary goal.

>>4157748

>Revised action 1, from >>4155375
(will apply after tarn posts his turn)
(>>4149740 you'd better do it)
Using the air-tight canisters, which the tarn used to transport the gas to our researchers, we design a contraption that will release just a small fraction of the gas within a canister as it rests underneath a hot air balloon. A flame we call an "ignition fire" rests above the canister, which burns constantly, even when gas is not released from said canister. Attached to the gas canister is a mechanism that only slightly allows gas to escape. Released gas rises up towards the ignition fire, and, you guessed it, ignites into a small pillar of flame. This fire produces copious amounts of hot air, and with the canister's opening controlled by a series of cogs attached to a handle, the pilot of a hot air balloon is able to fly with some precision in mind. However, one must be skilled in the art of flight, in the hopes that they do not fly too high, nor too low. Testing of this device's worth is to begin immediately

>1: occupy former dwarven lands
The dwarves? Fallen? Our agreement broken? Why on such short notice? if zedfeld is truly dormant, then who are we in keeping it from use? As much as we respect the dwarves, this wasn't the best time to leave, being in the middle of a war. Now we are forced to communicate with what seems to be a force of destruction that lies on a titanic scale. Will they find the need for peace within their pulsating veins, powered by who knows how many hearts? We cannot know. Of course, we can always search for answers.

>2: occupy further dwarven lands
(refer to the discussed split of dwarven lands to determine what we'll be claiming)
we head to the mountains, in search of answers and compensation for the loss we've experienced with the dwarven departure. maybe if we go deeper, then we will find the answers we seek.

>>4159412
>>4155358

>Diplo: Tidal + Gylden
We ask the other friendly forces that were involved with this war what they feel is best in dealing with the flesh menace. We are unsure of what to do, and yet, we are certain that if this war continues, then we will not be able to hold our own for much longer. Peace must be reached with the flesh, if such a concept is anywhere near tangible to them.

>>4149529 (diplo: cravers)
In the broad of day the mighty ship Trieneder manages to reach the diplomacy zone of the last diplomatic contact with the Cravers. The shores which lay still fairly untouched, the ship went alone, at great speeds as to avoid any attacks and without using any weapons. The naval ships which used to be attacking craver lines have fallen back into defensive positions along the coast.
The ship flies the tarnish trade flag, as they did last time as a sign of diplomacy, they also wave a banner in tarnish which reads of a sentence which means “peaceful meeting”.
Alongside them both Gylden and Meluzinan delegates walk, garbed in traditional clothing of their people.
If any craver decides to come up and talk with them they show no signs of violence, only supported by a group of guards placed far back and near the coast.
The lead dragon continuously shouts in tarnic “we have come to discuss peace!” until a diplomatic representative of the cravers come, and if they have to wait they set up camp.

>>4159586
The clan of Paitoy knows of this manner, they know that these creatures can be reasoned with as they tried to before and have invited diplomats from both the gylden and the meluzina to go and talk to the cravers

>>4157746
Action 1: Secure the headwaters
Tarnish soldiers push into former ashenbeard territory, sweeping across the land. The first stop is at the headwaters of the Jaakal River, where a small group of scientists and soldiers are positioned to protect the waters from further contamination. Next, the army moves north to Aeuntjotdragg, surveying the city for a possible siege. After, the army sweeps across the surrounding province, detaining any dwarves they find and interrogating them about vital strategic points and points of interest.

Action 2:GAS GAS GAS
With a simple proof of concept discovered, the Tarns begin work on refining it to become a true source of natural gas. Meluzina-compatible steel containers are devised and implemented, while the mechanisms which extract the gas are also converted to hardwood and steel. Any other requirements of the Meluzina regarding the gas are fulfilled to the best of Tarnish ability.

>>4157747
1. [NM]
The shroom men's strange reproductive methods led to inspiration. A brewing of the gathered shroommen in a Geneforge womb, casting flesh over and into the fungal scaffold.

2.

The Ashen are silent and clearly weak, their people broken. Where once the Rut'ra trampled as a consuming horde against the Oppressor, they now go for a victory march through broken forts, offering any remaining dwarf soldiers passage to Glyden lands if they surrender. The villagers of Tulakrell are counted and organized by occupation, as a dwarven overseer representative for Union is searched for (no doubt the bad blood would not be conducive for a good initial new ruler-citizen relations).

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>>4157746
Action 1: Secure the headwaters
Tarnish soldiers push into former ashenbeard territory, sweeping across the land. The first stop is at the headwaters of the Jaakal River, where a small group of scientists and soldiers are positioned to protect the waters from further contamination. Next, the army moves north to Aeuntjotdragg, surveying the city for a possible siege. After, the army sweeps across the neighboring province, detaining any dwarves they find and interrogating them about vital strategic points and points of interest.
>Expand north using pic

Action 2:GAS GAS GAS
With a simple proof of concept discovered, the Tarns begin work on refining it to become a true source of natural gas. Meluzina-compatible steel containers are devised and implemented, while the mechanisms which extract the gas are also converted to hardwood and steel. Any other requirements of the Meluzina regarding the gas are fulfilled to the best of Tarnish ability.

>>4159589
We send our most calm and collected diplomat, Horace Pepi, of the Garters. He's small, he's old, but he knows how to talk to people, even if those people are fabled to be ruthless killing machines.

>>4159589
>>4159597
>>4159586

>Diplo: Deepaun/Cravers/Meluz/Karnis

The Gylden send Rathi Snovighelm to speak as their emissary, for of all the Gyldenfolk his line is most famed with dealing with the 'other' and turning them to friends.

>>4157965
>>4159412
The Republic sends a trio of diplomats to meet with the Gylden. Charles Mae'Ronceillmont leads the negotiations and is supported by Archimondes of Volodek and Marcos del Sol of Oldek. They come to lay out the events as happened.

Hacmosi settlers crossed the Volo River after observing that no one lived on the other side. The initial waves of settlers were very large, and they set up settlements as far afield as the river running south from Ulzun. Without warning or protest, Dwarves came down from the mountains and slaughtered all of the new settlements up to the one that still stands. Thousands had died and in the aftermath the Dwarves claimed that the land none of them lived on or had ever been spotted using belonged to them. When word reached the Vossaya of the siege here they marshaled an expeditionary force to break the siege and considered a wider military option to punish the Dwarves and secure the land that the settlers had died on. Before that could happen the Dwarven state rather abruptly collapsed, and now the Gylden have laid claim to the land that we had laid claim to that the Dwarves claimed to use but never actually used. Charles explains that there must be restitution paid for the loss of both lives in the struggle and treasure in having mobilized the forces of Hacmos to deal with the Dwarves.

1. Expand
Freed from the siege, some Elves head north to the source of the rivers to set up grazing kosts in the fashion of the Coerthan highlands and form the nexus of a new community in the old Dwarven fortress.

2. [R]andom Technological Advancement
The Republic is a massive trade power but also one with many open universities to study new ideas from abroad without hesitation or prejudice. Karnis Princesses come to universities in Terrata with the Dwarven spoils of war, their war machines and gear. Fanw and Tarnic traders ply wares in Volodek while Gylden merchants sell exotic Dwarven goods at market in Renthum. Even the reclusive Adnrethi have merchant houses in cities like Dravana and Oldek to trade goods for cotton cloth. All of these powers bring something new to the trade for study and dissemination through the Republic's salons.

>>4157943
The diplomat assures the king that the Tarns are honored by his offers and dispatches an assistant to the capital to receive an official response. One soon returns. The Council is likewise flattered by the Kings overtures of friendship and agree that the two nations ought to work much closer together now that the Ashen are gone. As for the aid, the Tarns gratefully accept it, but their honor requires that they pay at least something in exchange.for the privilege. Attached to the envoy is a golden coin with a crown stamped on it. The Tarns hope that this coin, the first minted by the Tarns themselves, will represent the enduring bond between the two nations.

The Tarns assure the Gylden that they will consult the golden dwarves with whatever they do with the Face of Therkuunaz. As for the removal of dwarves and artifacts. The Council informs the dwarves that they are welcome to whatever they would like, provided that the Tarns have the chance to record and document it before it is removed from its original position. They learned their lesson already from the frogs, who's unique machinery lay beyond repair by the time the Tarns realized its value. Everything must be taken note of, in case it has any value in the future.

The Southern kingdom is being eyed warily by the Tarns as well. Before the Ashen fell, they took a species of savages under their wing. Perhaps those things had usurped the grey dwarves? In any case, the Tarns intend to approach the situation with caution. They plan on sailing a ship around the southern coast to scout out the new nation, and hope the Gylden can do the same by land.

Finally, the Tarns accept the treaty of mutual respect and defense. May it never be needed.

>>4157746
H'yomi have such strange ideas. Us, B'yogi, souls without bodies? By the Three, we were beings beyond psychical form, not "souls". H'yogmi and their insane beliefs.
Our military capabilities need help to reform and strengthen. We hope our Garnish allies will help.

1. In Phylactery, we successfully captured a soul. Unfortunately, it causes much distress to it. Fragile things souls are. We will build a "check point" of the sort to lure souls through and quickly study. It won't stop or capture them, but slow souls down on their journey to wherever they go.
2. Jubilation has been a project most fortuitous to our. But we shouldn't neglect our other cities. Starting in the capital city of Fright, we will strengthen and enforce it. We only have a small territory. We must protect it at all costs.
>>4159656
A group of ex-students are sent to the Garnish Ones to ask for help in military matters. We reached our limit for physical might in a large scale and we wish help in improving. In return, we B'yogi will delve into your religion and seek to the truth to strengthen your faith in it.

>>4159695
The Tarns are more than happy to help their friends improve their martial skills. The B'oo are invited to study at the Martial Academy at Roodkhaane. The sprawling complex hosts a variety of lecturers from all across the world, teaching classes on military strategy, the art of warfare, and almost every style of combat under the sun. Students sent here will emerge seasoned warriors, though its up to them whether they wish to specialize in one area or study a variety of combat styles.

The Tarns do have a specific request for the B'oo. They are confident in their own faith, but have long been curious about the faiths of others. Recently the Tarnish Empire has come into possession of an Ashenbeard religious site, the Face of Therkunnaz. Would the B'oo be willing to investigate the site, to see if this Ashen god truly does exist?

>>4159621
The Tarns inform the Gylden they are establishing a research site around the Face alongside the B'oo, to discover if there is any evidence of Therkunnaz's presence there.

>>4159656

>Diplomacy: Tarn
The terms are deemed acceptable by King Gvendon, and he further tells the Tarn details of his first planned expedition to retrieve the under-mountain mint, so that they might arrange some measure of co-ordination. Would it be better for the Tarn to openly attach a research delegate to the expedition themselves, he wonders; for the Tarn to send a man of shorter stature with Dwarven garb and Postiche, or simply for some Tarnic scholars to be ready in Ironstone for an invitation once the site is secured? He would rather have the expedition avoid entanglements, and believes it would be better to retain the option of extracting the device diplomatically, if any sane Ashen survivors remain in the surrounding caverns. Either way, the Tarn will certainly be given the opportunity to study the device once it is secured; his own engineers will be doing the same before removal, and another set of notes taken is another backup in case of malfunction. Not that he expects solid Dwarf-work TO malfunction, but... more precautions mean more solid craftwork.


>>4159626

>Diplomacy: Vossik

Another bloody mess left behind by the collapse of the Ashenbeard kingdom. Thane Tonth Grundseelig offers the Vossik delegates Ale and food, and gifts of lapis broaches; then grumbles as he reads through the list of the Vossik statement. Whilst he is quite certain it is exaggerated - he knows that the woods were full of lumberdwarves even in the ancient days of the worm war, and that very little throughout the centuries would have made them vanish or stop their needed craft. Yet he cannot deny that the Ashen marshlands had been left untended. For very good reasons, perhaps; the place was and is full of corpse-worm nests, but the failures of the Ashenbeard Kingdom to set up any kind of diplomatic contact with their western neighbors speaks volumes of their diplomatic approach.

The land west of the Volozvarm were legally Dwarven, he confirms; but accidental trespass is no excuse for massacre. The Gylden Kingdom had previously attempted to obtain weregild from the Ashenbeards on Tarnic behalf, but that attempt had floundered upon the Ashen nature. Do the Vossiks have a casualty list, he asks, that he might assess the weregild due to citizens of the Vossik republic from the Ashen remnant? And if the republic is prepared to give him full access to the Vossik military paybill he is sure he can assess the costs rendered for their mobilization, too.

Once the first meeting is officially concluded, Tonth takes Charles for a quick aside, handing him a parchment on which a figure is written. This is the full landprice for the marshlands in gold, based upon the guideline of an earlier Tarno-gyldic land deal. If it just so happens that the Vossik figures end up matching their sum to this price... why, that would probably be very convenient for everyone, wouldn't it?

>>4159711
The Gylden thank the Tarn for informing them. Might they send a priest or two of Guldfar to join the study of the face? The majority view of the Gylden is that Therkunnaz is just the Ashen dialect-word for Guldfar; finding some evidence of a presence might help clear up the truth of this.

>>4159747
The priests are more than welcome to join in this quest. The more the better!

>>4159733
The Tarns will dispatch a research team to the area as soon as they are able. However, they will take cues from the Gylden as to the exact approach. Perhaps whatever dwarves remain will respond better to an all dwarf envoy? The Tarns also inform the Gylden that their army is in the area, securing the province and scouting out any signs of dissent. If needed, the Tarn are more that happy to pull back and let Gylden try their hand at pacifying the populace.

>>4157747
Actions:

-The reports of the scouts paint a grim picture ash to the fate of the Ashenbeards. Their once roaring halls, now deathly silent and painted in gore. What could possibly have wiped out the oppressors where even the might of the Karnis was kept toe to toe with them? The swarm is most disturbed at the news, yet they require answers. Whatever happened to them can happen to the Karnis too, their fate must be examined to prevent the same from falling upon the ants. Gathering their Tu'Karn, the collapsed tunnel leading to back to the dwarven tunnels is cleared. Once opened, their forces quickly push through to seize the pathways, and advance deeper South-West to investigate what the Re'Karo had found.

-What a terrible way these ants had to die, yet it was not in vein. Their corpses proved to yield invaluable information, and the scholars begin to dwell on how they might go about protecting themselves from the dreaded poison of the Core. They begin to theorize what it might be in the air that could cause such a thing. One of the scholars puts forth the idea that perhaps it is something similar to spores such as those of the shroomen, but so small that it cannot be seen by the eye. Intrigued by the notion, the scholars request some of the shroomen to be transported to their outpost. Here they have the them release their spores in containment chambers and test various methods and materials that might aid in filtering out these harmful pathogens. Not looking to condemn any ant to a potentially violent death, the ants use a variety of different animals in their tests instead.

>>4153713
Diplo: B'yogi
The diplomats readily agree the terms of the corporeal ones, taking up temporary residence within the port of Jubilation under the watchful eye of their hosts. Eagerly they share their ways and customs with any who are willing to engage with them, while observing the ways of the B'yogi with fascination.

>>4157748
While pewter is nice our real goal was to create bronze with a little lead, which is excellent at not getting corroded at sea.
Action 1:
Maps of the former ashenbeard empire are reviewed and an area of interest is found, it is known as “The Mint” and likely holds a great amount of treasure as its location was secure and it was used as a zone where great amounts of coins were minted.
Many dragons in our empire are discontented with the lack of true adventure, with only the disgusting battlegrounds of the northern war serving as anything close to something truly interesting.
Thus we shall send a battalion of soldiers into the mountains to go and capture the riches of that hold, for the smell of glory is delicious in the nostrils of a bored drake many decades old. The battalion is made up of adventurous dragons of varying skillsets from across the empire, from civilians to veterans all armed with some of the finest weaponry of the empire.
>send a large group of soldiers into the mountains, made up of volunteers of many shapes and sizes to go and try to obtain the treasures of “the mint”. (This action is to create that unit and to send it into the mountains, tell me what they find upon first contact and i will go on from there)
Action 2:
>create an iron mine so that we can use that iron for important things if we ever figure out something useful to do with it
War action:
>defend the coast of meluzina in a defensive naval campaign, purging any flesh we find

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SCENE FOUR

>>4157774
>FHR
The seeds are brought to those of Clan Belde to whom the magics of Denok are claimed to be gifted. Behind the closed doors of the Clan Belde hall, within their verdant shrine of Denok there, prayers begin. Only time will tell if they will be of any effect.
(>>4159626) Another band of explorers, another century of Men traipse through the Vossik Republic. They bring along with their usual supplies a deal of lumber, tools of work, and yards of cloth. Their intent is clear, to set up a permanent outpost in the east. And this they do, the explorers' hamlet of Vadna is a hive of activity with the studying of the Ashen ruins and abandoned periphery. A forge too is constructed for the continual maintenance of the camp. Of their study, two are of particular import; the obelisk, and the doors in the mountain. Of the latter little can be gleamed, carved around them are glyphs of an unknown linear script, and settings for something which have been pried off. Of the former however, a startling discovery is made. For as soon as the first Varken lays a bare hand upon the stone, she is attacked so violently that she is thrown back a good ten feet, convulsing terribly before succumbing to her injury. It is only the knowledge of the dangers of shock rifles that alerts the attendance that she has been electrocuted by, the stone?

>>4157782
>Llychlyn
The Gwethwr class ship will no doubt soon become the preferred vessel for the merchant sort. For now however, their trade partners are limited, as the mainland is steeped in contracts, tariffs, and taxes.
The final two mines are set, dredging up coal and lead. What concessions can be made, are done so, but there is always some disruption to the natural beauty of the world with any endeavour. Coal is sent to the Blessèd Forges, to replace the wood and charcoal which had consumed a good deal of lumber. Lead is mined & refined, but as yet, seems to have little use for the Children of Fanw.

>>4157923
>Elder Dwarves (name not final)
Invuld for only six days, Urengratt is cast into the forge of the world, and with him those fools who would dye their grey beards red. The Akkghar rages for an entire month before peace once more reigns over the Dwarves who once called themselves the Ashenbearded. Questions abound. What are they to call themselves? What are they to do with the Emerald Kin? What of their brotherhood with the Gylden?

>>4159412
>Gyldenthrong
A town with a simple wooden wall rises amidst the trees which guard the copper miners from the sun. The primary inhabitants are the Ashen labourers who had for many years lived in disparate shanty towns, moving as the work did. The new residents however are bitter over the Elven Marsh debacle.

>Gyldenthrong cont.
The venture starts well from Ulzunteg'dun, following cramped Ashen tunnels up into the mountain proper. The darkness is banished only by the dim lanterns & torches of the party, for though they were once intermittently lit with candles, the passages now fall black. Almost immediately after leaving the outskirts?, it is difficult to tell underground, of the electrum city they are met with an impasse, for the way has been caved in. The defectors amongst them recognise Ashbeard work when they see it and go about clearing the blockage. No sooner had they begun, than the smell of decay floods the air, the more stones removed the worse the stench. When the rocks are removed, torch-bearers are sent in. Harrowed cries, vomit, pale faces return. "It is a bloodbath. Bodies and," he vomits again, "bodies and, pieces, by Guldfar, pieces of bodies. Women, children, babes in arm." He falls to weeping. Though they had come to gather the mint, doing so would mean trespassing through battlefield-cum-cemetery.

>>4159577
>Meluzina
Zedfeld is the first land tentatively to be taken, with effort to bring the forges to Meluz heights. With the success of the forge expansion widely known, more Meluz head west, snatching up the once Dwarven hills. They are dotted about with tiny wooden cabins, and grazed by now rather feral goats. At the same time, there arrive Men and other strange Men-like persons in old Tula'krel. (>>4157774)
The clay pots the Tarn initially provide are of no use, the gas has already escaped the porous vessels leaving only a thin stinking yellow film on the inside. With Zedfeld now in Meluz hands, a more practical device of steel is fabricated for the Tarn to siphon this precious commodity into. The tanks are meticulously and laboriously hammered by hand, to be capped with a separate piece of thinner steel, which is punctured to release the gas into the stream of the fire. These tanks may then be reused with a new steel cap. So far only four tanks have been produced, such is the snakepower needed to make them.

>>4159597
>Cravers
The grains are gathered up, and cast into the Geneforge where they are delicately, ever so gently annihilated into slurry. From them is founded a new race of Cravic beast, in the image of the captured Shrooman is the first birthed Fleshroom creature. Gathered attendants watch in anticipation for it's first move. Upon gaining it's new-found conciousness it... wanders aimlessly like it's father, with none of the curiosity of it's mother. A pity.
(>>4157774) Priest-Captains, pulled in their chariots by Rut'ra, make their way triumphantly into once Ashen lands. They find the border forts undwarfed, the wall too. In typical Craver fashion, they set forth Chern'bolg to tear down the wall. As the wall crashes down onto the unfortunate apes, the Rut'ra continue over the rubble and corpses, straight into the armed and frightened Men of the Free Human Republic.

>>4159603
>Tarn
(you're trying to walk over mountains here, which isn't going to work) The source of the river north of the Ironstone Mine is quickly found, and seized, along with the surrounding navigable rock, which unfortunately is minimal. The water springing from the earth is tinged red, with a distinctly ferric smell. The optimistic proclaim it is iron contamination from the ore below, the cynical see that it is the red of blood which dirties the waters. As for the lower river, there is less achieved, the source located high in the snowy peaks, perhaps even being glacial in nature. This water too is polluted by the Dwarves in some way, though far worse than the spring in the north. There is talk of Gylden adventures into the underworld of the Ashen, they would be the ones to discuss the matter with. As to the study of the Visage of Therkuunaz, a steep unmaintained access lies in now Gylden forests up to the carved face. This would be the way up to it for closer inspection.
(see second half of Meluzina turn above)

>>4159626
>Vossik
(remember to deal with the aftermath of the landslides from >>4149628, you didn't the last two turns)
As the Tarn have too recently discovered, the mountains which make up the curve in Sigod's Spine are far less permitting than their northerly counterparts. No soaring gryphons, no mountain passes, only sheer rock and icy peaks. The Elves stake what they can of the mountainside, but without climbing gear or picks, the mountain remains resolutely unclaimed.
[R] With now two hundred armed Men and their, pets, filing through the Republic, a good view of their weaponry has spurred some of the more cautious-minded merchants to snap up whatever Dwarven machinery the Ants have to offer. Together their are three engines, two "hurlers" and one "sky-killer" (2 catapults, 1 ballista), they are however badly weathered, having it seems sat in the open for some time. But the Elezen are clever folk, with the rust scraped away, and new beams, they will no doubt have for themselves blueprints for both war machines.

>>4159695
>B'yogi
Much like the soul vessel of the past, this "soul check point" is carved of a single, enormous piece of mined turquoise. It is shaped like two funnels, connecting end to end, perhaps more like a fallen hour glass. In the middle are made many little cracks, through which perhaps the passing souls may be studied with the use of a luminous spell. The piece is secretly transported to Phylactery, and placed upon the same pedestal as the soul orb. B'yogi priests light the room with their illusory magics, causing dazzling sparkles and rainbows to dance off the gold and marble. Finally, prayers and hymns are sung over the turquoise, calling the souls to flow through it. The gathered B'oo wait with baited breath, before a soul finally is loosed from their mortal body, and sails through the soul check point. It is less than a second, but those set to watch through the cracks all claim the same thing...

>B'yogi cont.
They saw the soul as it journeyed through! They hold of celebrations to make sure the soul is not trapped within either end of the turquoise, and with no terrible screams issuing forth, they cheer in great success. Enough to miss the next soul shoot through.
Though most of the improvements in Jubilation were for the benefit of the H'yomi, the different needs of the B'yogi may still be met by them. As was done before, street and building are copied to boost up Fright. No more than now has it been true that Fright is a labyrinth of terror, just as any B'oo would have it.

>>4159762
>Karnis
The Ants once more tunnel into Ashen burrows, emerging again in the storage room they did so long ago. It remains largely the same as the foresisters remembered, though the air reeks of death. Cautiously they make their way through the store, into the tavern beyond, then into the side-tunnel. Even this tiny offshoot has seen battle. The walls are splattered with blood, the floor sticky, the stench unbearable. From here they squeeze into the thoroughfare, here bodies lay decomposing where they fell. The only corpses are those of the Ashen. Treading carefully, the Karnis find the way to where they assume is the capital, was the capital?, has been collapsed. There is a feeling of dis-ease all about.
Breeding so quickly, and with a ready supply so close, the Tuki bird will be the main victim of the spore tests. Cajoling a Shroomen into the desert however may prove another challenge entirely, as they seem to require moist air to survive. It may be prudent to conduct the tests at the Flesh Vats on the Charnel Island, rather than the meteor outpost.

>>4160533
>Tidal
The Dragons fly as high up into the mountains as their lungs will allow, though they still loom overhead so vast are the peaks. From the surface, no sign of where the Mint is located deep within the rock shows itself, though the scouts note that no smoke rises from any chimneys or vents, a sight they had yet to see from those industrious Dwarves. Entry into the underworld of the Ashen when the Mint lies, are few, truly only three are known to exist. The easiest would likely be Ulzunteg'dun, the Electrum City where Ashen & Gylden do business. There is an entrance also known to be in the north for their farmhands, and the last somewhere in the forests the Gylden now claim. To make their way to the untold treasures, they will have to go either through Lowland Dwarf lands, or the north, which no doubt now crawls with Flesh. A last quick scan shows not even the slimmest Depaun could fit down the widest vent. Looks like they'll have to take the standard way in.
Pewter is nice, yes, but the leaded bronze the Tidal alloy is nicer. To add to the panoply of metals is iron, which Tarnic & Gylden alike claim can be strengthened in some way to create their precious steel.

>Tidal cont.
The Flesh still muddies the Wending Strait, though with conflict relaxing, this is lessening. So too are the attacks on Tidal ships, at least the non-living vessels, it seems the monsters have learnt that these boats are armed. Sticking close to the shore provides more reliable service to and from the Meluz port, who knows what those fleshy bastards have lurking in the deep water.

DIPLO
>>4159412 >>4159626
The Ashbeards of the lowlands insist still that the Elves are intruders upon rightful Dwarven land, that it was the Ashen who had cleared the land of the Worms! When they are learned that the land has been ceded to the Vossik, they are indignant that the Gylden, their brother, would just give away hard-won Dwarven territories to squatters & interlopers. What next, feed Tula'krel to the Flesh in the north?! When the shock of it wears off for both parties, none can answer who gave the order, the Ashbeards don't remember an order being given per se. There was a shout to action, and it was heeded, nothing more.
As to the claims of a massacre, the Ashen scoff. No such thing had occurred! Elves had been chased off in the southern wetlands for sure, and maybe a few isolated, klos? they call 'em, the towers, had been knocked down, but no slaughter. Mores the pity. Elves up to tricks, that's what that is.

END OF SCENE FOUR.

>>4161058
Action 1: Karnis Rubber Plantation
The Tarnish government sells a large amount of forged iron to the Karnis in exchange for their assistance in building a rubber plantation. The rubber is transported from the plantation to the former city of Aeuntirgarden, then transported through former dwarflands to the Jaakal River, from where it is shipped downstream to Jaakal and Xycthos. From there, it’s shipped north to the gas mines, where the soft, pliant substance finds great use as an airtight sealant.
Action 2: Travel to the Mint
The Gylden are far better versed in the use of ashen tunnels and intermountain travel.While the bulk of the army continues to stubbornly attempt to climb the mountains by hand and foot, the council orders a specialized team of mountaineers and scholars to assist with the Gylden expedition.

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>>4161055

>Action 1: Retrieval of the Mint pt. 2: Rites for the Dead

Though both have corpses lying around, a Battlefield is not a cemetery, and a cemetery not a battlefield. And this; this is a battlefield, where Ashen fought Ashen and the only deaths were those of the Ashen. What manner of madness had come upon the Ashenbeards to lead to such indiscriminate slaughter of themselves, the Gylden wonder? They're not sure if they really want an answer.

The miners set to work unfouling the air by opening all closed chimneys, and striking new breaches if suitable places are found; whilst one of the warriors trained in the basic priestly rites gives a small memorial for the dead, scattering a potent alcohol across the Ashenbeard corpses and corpse-parts as the expedition ventures carefully forward.

When he returns here, the war-priest vows; he will take the time and set all these souls properly to rest. For now, the expedition must be continued. If all this death is to have any meaning at all, the shared Dwarven heritage must be preserved. The Mint must be retrieved, and delivered to Gyldholm for safe custodianship.


>Action 2: Fermented Traditions

Though the Ashenbeards are collapsed as a Kingdom, much of their knowledge still remains among the scattered peoples who have found themselves sanctuary. And though both Gylden and Ashen both have prestigious brewing Traditions, they had differed significantly from one another. In order to preserve many of the Ashen brewing traditions and not loose the range of Alcohols produced, it is decided to fund the establishment of two new breweries. One in the northern forest, on the riverbank, north of the river from Ulzunteg'dun. And one in the southern forests. East of the Derelict outpost - in fact, the material of the outpost itself is to be dismantled and used in the construction of the brewery. And by such means will much of the Ashen brewing tradition be preserved.

>>4161055
The Dwarves would call themselves Akkhar Dwarves as that is who they are now. Not a hundred different tribes divided by color of beard, but children of a revolution which brought them freedom and self-determination.

The Emerald Kin maybe fr the first time, are now to be treated as one with the Dwarves as they too are children of the Revolution. All people of the state shall sing with one voice and fight with one sword, the Emerald Kin are to choose a representative from among them to have a seat on the council.

As to the Gylden, with a new regime not only foe is forgotten, but friend too. All the known nations of the world would soon receive a letter from the Dwarves describing the events of the Perrtlurk Akkhar and how "The state you knew as belonging to the Invuld is no more, the enemies of the Invuld are not our enemies and the friends of the Invuld are not our friends. Treat us as if you discovered a new nation for while in the same land, we are a new nation, a new people."

> Action 1:
Write down the rules of the revolution. It's principles, ideology and everything concerning it. Every Dwarf and Kin shall have this book even if they can't read.

Action 2:
Expand heavy industry. Try to expand the grand Volcano forge and automate as much of it's inner workings as possible.

>>4161055
1. In the next wave of the expedition to pass though the Elven lands comes engineers, assigned to the task of "updating" the preexisting and abandoned defenses surrounding Vadna, setting up Ballistae, walls of whatever materials could be utilized, etc...

2. In addition, they are accompanied with Varken scientists who are to establish a Laboratory around the strange obelisk and doors found by the first expedition. Along with this, proper infrastructure is to be put into place. Vadna will be a sizable town by the time it's properly established

>>4159597
With the wall on their northern flank suddenly torn from the ground, the 2 companies of actual FHRDF infantry, both expeditions of similar composition when it came to their security personnel; and with the colony being Vay in origin, a third company of Militia armed with what weapons had been manufactured in the Dzen forge, all rush to predetermined defensive positions, in time to see....chariots rush though the gap. Shock rifles are trained on targets from afar, Storm infantry prepare grenades, Pikemen form hedges of sharp steel, and Flamesprayer infantry check propellant canisters. If whatever the hell these things came looking for a fight, they'll get one, and Vaygr willing, they'll run back from wherever they came.

>>4161229
The armed expeditions of the FHR are informed that they are no longer permitted through. The borders, following the war and collapse of the Dwarves, have been barred until further notice while diplomatic talks to divide the land between participants is being conducted.

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>>4161229
>>4161063
>>4160533
>Some Craver lore posting
>With the constant war against the Ashen, The Charnel Lands has a unique approach to fixing labor shortages and preventing brain drain. The ability to design the people you need in number with natural leaders lends to a certain trend among the population, of a dedicated leader Craver, his subordinate gene-brothers (those created to be his aides and replacements in event of his death, perhaps born from his own efforts away from the Capitol, or born beside him in the wombs of Neverborn.) making up his cohort, and whatever Flesh that may be entrusted to him (buildings, armies, etc). This can be seen on levels from the lowliest Rover herder, to the proud Priest-Captains, to the shrewd Shroom Researchers.

>Diplo
>FHR

The Rut'ra horde comes to a stop, forming a long line before the wall, hackles raised and snarling. The Priest-Captain disperses his cohort of brothers and their chariots across the horde, before riding ahead of the army. With a raising of his hand, the Rut'ra fall silent, and he speaks in the gurgling tongue of the Tarn.

>"Greetings Travelers, it seems you have wandered quite Far from home-"

He dismounts his chariot, resting his caster upon his shoulder as he slowly walks towards the armed Men. Behind the slowly approaching monstrous humanoid the horde of Rut'ra are dead silent, and a new sound descends over the fields, as black screaming clouds streak through the winds - bearing a harsh mixture of chittering wings and chattering mouths.

>"-wandered so far in fact, that you have landed in the path of our blood-right and conquest. Tell us how the winds of fate have carried you so Son of Man."

The Craver soon can tell these are not Tarnsmen, but the race of Westernlings past the sands of Hel'grind -The FHR and it's bristling steel. The Captain begins etching a rudimentary map in the soil between the two forces. The claim goes as such with the land being divided by the wall and a DMZ with a few Craver Zones/FHR Zones and the obelisk serving as a dual zone.


>Tidal

The dragons are answered, the Cravers are willing to sit at the peace table with the allies of the fallen Ashen; guilt by association will not blind Craver eyes from the potential for peace in their time.


>>4159762
>Karnis Diplo

The 3rd member of the Union, the Karnis emerging from the broken corpse of the Sable pulled by Craver aid, has been trying their own hand at Fleshcrafting with their Tuki birds, while Cravers have granted them the gifts- they have not spent proper time teaching the Karnis shapers. Some advice may be in order. The Karnis are brought in on observing the headway with the Fleshshrooms, and presented ideas with Craver assistance in regards to protection from the meteor Core, namely an extra-skeletal insulated carapace for the Karnis to step into and be fully encapsulated from the deadly influence of the Core with the new wondrous asbestos and lead bone as they seek to understand it.

>>4161305
The leader expresses that while he himself would agree to these terms, as they are reasonable, the ultimate decision lies with the Daiimad back inside the FHR. With the next expedition wave expected soon, they would send word back to the Clan-Sahs. For now, the borders would be agreed upon. So long as none of either races would cross into the others without prior notice, all would be fine.

>>4161055
With a number of ships built and many more under construction, all that was needed now was to wait, and soon enough trade would boom. Yet that didn't mean there couldn't be things done to help goods get to the markets and onto the ships in the first place. As such, Eheubryd would make the efforts to influence infrastructure, that is, expand the road network further. Considering the fact that the road network is quite old at this point, and all the new mines and farms have opened up, now more than ever would be the best time to expand their connections for the reasons stated earlier. After all, its much easier to move a cart over a proper path, even a dirt one, than without a path at all. They'd also prevent people unfamiliar with the area from getting lost unless they deliberately leave the path. With all this in mind, the new roads will lead to ease of travel of goods, which will further facilitate trade.

Still, while there is work on the roads, Blodwyn would return from her trip to the Tarn, as the threat of conflict drastically came to a sudden halt as the opposing side collapsed. However, shortly after returning, an Idea from Rhisiart would reach her, something he called Geiriau Grym. Naturally, interested in its applications, she'd give him the resources to try and experiment with this 'Geiriau Grym'. The idea came about some time ago during the trip to the Free Human Republic, and, when stated simply, was using special words and infusing them with some sort of power in order to improve things. The viability of such wasn't known yet, but if it was possible, he'd find out with his work. Naturally, having limited knowledge on magic, he'd rely on any books merchants from the Free Human Republic could give on magic. Currently, at this stage, he was more trying to figure out how magic worked rather than how to imbue it with words, but still, step by step. Of course, this would be something that Blodwyn made sure wasn't known to anyone outside of Eheubryd, Rhisiart, those directly working with Rhisiart, and the higher members Clan Tudor. Hopefully, they'd have something to show for their work in time...

Other than this, Nist would take to buying some of the new ships, as a few of Clan Nist thought selling baubles, tools, weapons and armor directly to foreigners was wise. They'ed even get permission, seeing how Blessed steel loses its blessings without proper practices when smelting it down and reforging, to offer tools and weapons of the material at foreign shores, or take commissions. After all, they doubted Fanw would keep the blessing on the steel if it was smelted down without the proper practices, let alone grant it to another nation if they somehow found out the techniques to create it. Though, the last part was seen as practically unthinkable.

>Action One. Make roads to all the new places that haven't had proper roads to before, such as the mines.

>Action Two. Start to learn how to imbue magic with engraved words.

>>4161193
Not OP was error from other thread.

>>4161305 (diplo - cravers)
The Dragons care not for what the cravers do besides a few specific things, pretty much all they have come to demand is that the cravers do not enter trade with any of the nation present, along with the tarn as well. They demand that all market dealings including the cravers -whether they be technically legal or not within the specific nations be ceased until further notice by the Tidal Empire and none besides them.
Along with this they wish that the cravers keep their replacement of the aquatic ecosystems and water quality to a minimum east of the flesh bridge as they and the meluz would like to fish in those areas, the cravers may also have the opportunity to fish in the region but must do so near their coast or in agreed upon fishing zones, no fishing zones may overlap with other nations as that increases the chances of "cultural exchange" occurring. This may be agreed upon between the Meluz and the cravers although the Tidal Empire would like to have a say as well since they plan on doing some fishing there themselves.

>>4161058
1.A group of B'yogi specializing souls is sent to the Face of Therkunnaz and investigate it. Let see if the Ash Ones have souls and is their god there?
2. With Garnish insight, we will reform and strengthen our militaries.

>>4161193

>Diplomacy: Akkhar Dwarves
The Gylden Dwarves are not sure what to make of this letter received from the... Akkhar? The word has no immediate meaning to them, though with the isolation of these Dwarves it is quite likely they would have their own words not present in the Gylden or Ashen dialects the Ashen certainly had anough of their own already.

An emissary is sent south along the roads, accompanied by a trade caravan. Arriving at Kezvogaz'unteg, the emissary looks out across the border of the river-canyon, and has his attendant shout out to the Akkhar to announce his presence.

"I send greetings from Gyldholm, heart of the Gyldenthrong." he announces, and awaits a response before continuing. "You say you are now Akkhar, and to treat you as a new people?" he asks. "If you are forged anew, what purpose are you forged for?"


>>4162261

>Diplomacy: B'oo
The first Gylden ship arrives at the B'Yogi port, responding to their invitation, and the Dwarves on-board call out requesting permissions to put ashore.

>>4161834

>Diplomacy: Llychlyn
His tour of the children's suggested domains finished, the scholar runs fingers through his beard as he thanks his hosts for allowing him to visit their beautiful Island. As much as he would have liked to stay longer, it has now been rather a while since sight of his family; and home again calls to him. As parting gifts, he gives the Children of Fanw his brass kettle and longsight-tube, his last unbreached keg of Gylden cider and a Dwarf-inscribed map of the known world (Now very outdated and inaccurate; it might feature cartographic details of the east from the north-Meluzine border through the dragon's islands and down almost to the icy continental tip; but in the west it is severely lacking, featuring only a shaded and unknown land of the B'oo, and showing the rest of the western continent as incorporate within the Vossik republic).

>>4161056
1.
Suggest to these strange westerlings that the dwarves broke the base and seperated pieces from the obelisk did they not? Craver technicians wish to attempt a repair with a iron/bone cement to keep the stone's properties flowing. The ruins of the phosphate mine are the base camp of the army, as surplus flesh lay the beginnings of a flesh mine for the precious phosphate.

2.
Aid to the Karnis with their Core suits.

>>4162257
>>4163072
>>4159608


>Diplomacy: Tidal

Rathi Snovighelm finds himself slightly nonplussed by the list of tidal requests, and during a recess he steps aside with the Deepaun delegate for a moment to try and catch a private word. Although he finds the cravic delegate deeply unsettling, surely at first principle this delegation had arrived to arrange a cessation of hostilities, mutual recognition of current borders and zones of control, and agreements from both sides not to violate land recognized belonging to each other's side? Until this is managed, he is unsure if there is any point quaffing too deeply on theoretical matters of trade that the flesh creatures might not have any interest in?

>>4161063
>As to the claims of a massacre, the Ashen scoff. No such thing had occurred! Elves had been chased off in the southern wetlands for sure, and maybe a few isolated, klos? they call 'em, the towers, had been knocked down, but no slaughter. Mores the pity. Elves up to tricks, that's what that is.

Charles took that opportunity to point out that similar to the kost they were actually in, those towers were full of residents that were subsequently crushed when the Dwarves collapsed the towers. It was tantamount to admitting they had killed those settlers.

>>4159733
Tonth found Charles nothing if not a shrewd businessman. Indeed, he had come with figures. Figures that would provide a hefty sum in order to purchase much of the wetlands. This amount would, of course, be taken from whatever indemnity the Dwarves owed. What the Republic wanted was the marshes and the copper mine. Those granted and the sums paid, the spear could be buried.

>>4163949
The depaun delegate apologizes, and will be sure to keep post-peace matter until after peace has been achieved.
>>4163072
The depaun delegate, upon reentering alongside the dwarf states that he will recall his demands until after the first portion of talks, which may or may not end this war are finished. At that point he will get back into negotiations on the topic of trade.

>>4157923
It was not long ago that the Dragons had traded on the coast of the colony, and now they have returned to trade again.
The Dragons propose re-instating the previous contract, aka:
>Dragons may trade on the coastal areas they once did; in the markets where they once did.
>The Dragons may not fly in this territory without explicit permission from the leaders of the former colony.
The Dragons also warn of the Dangerous Gaunt men of the ice wastes, whose blood burns through flesh like molten metal through paper. But if the dwarves ever manage to capture individuals of that race or even domesticate them (somehow) the Dwarves may be able to count on the coffers of the empire to pay them for such invaluable prizes. To be honest their bodies are worth their weight in gold tenfold to the dragons.

1. Volodek Expansion
The city of Volodek, with its deep harbor and proximity to trade routes, grew in importance rapidly. City facilities had to be expanded, and the city itself nearly tripled in size between 281 and 302 AR. The city added a new drydock, a proper market district, improved harbor facilities, and had the first Longshoreman's Guild. Goods could be loaded and unloaded from ships in Volodek faster than any other city in the Republic, possibly the world, as heavy loads could be moved by mechanical cranes powered by teams of horses and complex gear systems. The longshoremen themselves were trained, and their position grew to once of great importance in the city. Volodek also added the first hospital on advice from Fanw visitors and Othinian scholars. It added a new university, dedicated to studying knowledge and open to any who could pass the Three Pillars Test of writing, mathematics, and philosophy. The city also benefited from a new sewer system that flushed filth to the sea and a series of wells, fountains, and aquifers that supplied the dry city with fresh water from the nearby river.

2. Central Development
Similar developments took place in the central valley, with Renthum and Dravana Voss both receiving badly needed updates to infrastructure and housing. In both cities the population had exploded due to ample food and work opportunities in the cities. With other measures, such as a scaling tax burden that would up incentivizing large families, and the Elezen's own long lifespans, serious problems with overpopulation had been compounded on by a landslide that had occurred at the height of Republican mobilization. Those that would have been turned into soldiers were instead made into laborers in an ambitious public works program that not only cleared the landslides but also took the opportunity to rebuild entire city districts to provide housing. Both cities became home to large mass housing units. Unlike the traditional kost, these had virtually no defensive value. They were often five-story buildings made of strong Elezen brick- a mix of mountain dirts, river clay, and ground up granite mixed in a slurry and heated. The buildings, to provide protection from earthquakes, were sloped, and resembled very large pyramids. The triangular buildings provided both stability and a means of mass housing that was accessible, cheap, and simple to build. It solved much of the housing crisis faced in the two cities while constant food shipments from the peripheral kosts could provide the food needed to keep the population content with bread allowances. The population, many of them barely skilled laborers, were used to do simple tasks such as simple metalwork, transportation, construction, or other services.

>>4162956

The gifts would be taken and he would be thanked for them, however he'd be given a request to, instead of giving them the cider, enjoy it over one last feast before he returns home to his kin. Additionally, the map would be especially appreciated, and the Children would gift him one of their most modern maps, which had very limited displays of the east, but quite detailed in everything coast wise to the north of Llychlyn itself, with only the furthest parts north being tir anhysbys (Unknown land), and the sea's west of Llychlyn anhysbys môr (Unknown Sea) however there was one exception to this. One noteworthy portion of land would be the 'Gwlad y cysgod' in the area that was shaded and unknown in the Gylden map, and it would have the most limited coast line drawn up. Still, feast or no, he'd be allowed to travel back via one of the many new trade ships Llychlyn made, or the LCL Teithiwr if he so desired.

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>>4164161
>>4162257

The Craver delegation at first is in uproar. The first words the dragons speak at the table of peace are demands for the People of the Union to be trampled over and weaken themselves to attack and divide their sea holdings to Dragon control. A great many twitching cerebral fronds nearly poke out the eyes of neighboring monks of the delegation. After a brief recess (presumably when >>4163949 Gylden delegation lends its advice.)

Returning to the talks, the gathered Craver monks state clearly.

"The Union of Flesh seeks to end this long age of bloodshed stemming from the dawn of civilization, starting with the Kahro-Ashen wars. All that have been dragged into this maelstrom of hate and slaughter willfully played their part, and now must willfully cease. The Union of Flesh has claimed the land it seeks>>4161305 from the fall of the Ashen, and will launch no more attacks upon the scattered stunted men and their former allies/vassals; turning inwards to rebuild their murdered mission and continue their healing work."

The speaking Craver clears it's throat in a hacking cough that sends its fronds into a fit.

"The former [ Whatever Ashen called your whole group] and it's members must respond in kind for the Union and it's members to continue it's new post-war peaceful coexistence doctrines in light of the fall of the Oppressor/Ashen. Not one more drop of Meluz venom should fall upon Cravic flesh in an attempt of eradicating their living infrastructure, if peace is too hold. Not one more Depaun wing-beat cross the Wending Straight bearing directly upon the Flesh, if peace is too hold. The Kraken Ships and others of the Snakeport will hug the Meluz coast, if peace is to hold (as to not to offend Craver sensibilities). Not one more stunted men blade or hammer will hack and crush buildings or walking members of the Flesh, if peace is to hold.To address the "requests" that the Tidal demand of the Cravers, and show their intent to end this war of many generations; the Cravers propose some Doctrines.

>War of Flesh v. Sigod Treaty a.k.a Deserted Strand Doctrine

>Doctrine 1- The current tile claims of all present parties are to be respected by the others, and will not be attacked lest the agreement be broken.

>Doctrine 2- Ships going to or from the Meluz's Wending Straight port are to hug the coast on their journey and will be left unmolested, as Craver naval creations will not swim past the presented parallel (descending from the shore of the Charnel Lands) and never round the Mare's Tail; so long as ships seeking Cravic ports of entry are not prohibited by other members of the doctrine. Cravers will neither decrease or increase the current 'harshness' of the Wending Straight, as it is tuned against Tidal naval incursion, the totality of this doctrine is to be followed by all members lest this agreement be broken.

>cont.

>>4164228
>Doctrine 3- Border movements of militaries, overtly warmongering behaviour and threatening once observed, may be brought to the table in front of the other doctrine members; a vote may be called finding a member in violation of this treaty- with ramifications to be discussed upon severity of infraction.

>>4162956
The Short Ones are granted permission to enter and go ashore.

>>4164228
The tidal delegate speaks once more.
>After a review of further information about the state of the sea above the mare's tail and of historical accounts of the fishing done within it the Tidal Empire has withdrawn claims to those fishing grounds. Its fish can be assumed to have once tasted as many others do, yet now they taste of Mud and Iron. This can be connected to my second statement, as we find differences in the tastes of Cravers versus the tastes of the race's not of the Cravers, as can be plainly seen in the violent attacks of the once proud ashenbeard dwarves not everybody not of the Cravers takes very kindly to the ways and appearances of the Cravers, as your ways are alien to us. Your forms strange and unlike that seen in the natural world, now among the other races does exist a race analogous to you, that being the shapeshifting B'oo yet unlike you they do not tend to offer the spreading of their forms to others. Staying B'oo and not changing others into B'oo or anything else.
>While the talk of medical restorations done using Craver magic are tantalizing the other side of the coin, that being the prospect of adding in so called features not seen naturally in the other races is offensive in the ears of those who like the way they were made, and like the customs of their society. Perverse would be the word these prudes may use to describe you, as your forms are strange and your ways, as far as I can tell equally strange to their eyes, their ears, their noses, their taste and their touch. Yet that statement may not ring conclusive to some of you as I assume your kind have come up with other senses which you could use to be offended with.
(cont.)

>>4164326
>Finally I enter my true point, that being my proposition of a fourth doctrine to the treaty, one which will stop the terrible conflict which could one day occur between those who embrace the cravic lifestyle and those who wholly reject it.
The Delegate proposes the following:
Doctrine 4: Cravers may not make unnatural (as in not found within a sizable enough part of the species of the subject) modifications to Non-Cravers of races not apart of nations who have openly and publicly allowed for the practice and neither within such nations as well. (nations such as the Craver's northern allies for example would be exempt because they allow for this publicly) Any example of obviously illegal body modifications (ie: not an excusable accident which is then fixed) will subject the Craver responsible to expulsion along with the extraction of a statement and fine from the craver government condemning the modification in illegal territories along with the individuals responsible.
The Tidal Delegate speaks one final time.
>I have tried to make this doctrine as fair as possible, so that we both may understand that Cravers and the other races should be separate by default, as all races are and have always been through nature. I hope that through this we can come to mutual understanding. The individual laws on what Cravers may do in specific regions will be up to the government of that region, so that nobody can feel like we or any of our allies are the ones solely to blame for any mistreatment or oppression of cravers, as in their blood will be on their hands if they wish to throw their bigotry upon you.

>>4164326
The Cravers see things in these terms, their homeland is the Charnel isle and all that Neverborn touches, yet the other members of Union- The Kahro having their post Exodus home in Pentagon, with clear rights the land. The Karnis and their vast jungle empire. These lands are rightful claims in the eyes of these parties, and the power of the Union of Flesh and the North only grows in the wake of the Ashen fall; this peace talk is only taking place because we tire from bloodshed and the Oppressor lays broken- not that we fear the Ashen's scrambling allies and mercenaries. The delegation sees no reason for the Depaun to propose opinions of the world at large, when the elves and men of the west largely see themselves separated the east and have favorable relations with the Union as a whole, and no reason to consider being bullied here when the Cravers stand in their hour of triumph.

"The first 3 Doctrines are all that is needed for peace to last. If the Depauns are so dead set in pressing trade regulation and restrictions on Craver medicine at the peace table, when their blood will not be most spilled should these talks grow sour, having only served as mercenaries in this bitter war." Addressing the Gylden and Meluz parties.

>>4161056
>1: mechanics
These gears and cogs hold the power to move, hidden within their teeth. It's more than just pulling a lever and watching a contraption go, like our machines used in the hot air balloons. given a greater source of power, the cogs can be turned for a while. We know that heat rises, and can move certain things when we want it to. However, we would also know of the river within the swamp territory. What if there were a source of energy that didn't smell so bad, and didn't require raw man power? The flow of the water should be enough to power a mill of sorts. With this power, there will be no need to pull the lever! just connect the power source to its contraption, and watch it go!
Now that the representatives themselves have taken notice to this aid, work immediately begins on a water mill at the swamp river, connected to our territory. The facility it powers could be a variety of things, which we have yet to determine.

>2: move further into dwarven lands
we don't have our answers yet, and we're still just as determined to get them, if not more.

>>4164659
title is supposed to be "Meluzina"

>>4161229
Diplo: FHR
New people? It's been a while since we've last seen those. In response to their sighting, we carefully plan a "first contact" meeting. Of course, we use the almost traditional method of gifting intricately painted clay pottery, filled with riches, like the emeralds from Exoryxi. The dwarves, as they were friendly enough to us, might have been friendly to others. As such, we use their language, before attempting to use more. It seems we would like to open some form of trade with these new peoples.

>>4161060
Actions:
-What a horrendous demise, even the Ashen deserved better than this. What led to this carnage still eludes the Karnis, but they are not ones to squander an opportunity that presents itself so readily. The Re'Karo are sent into the ruins to the South-West. Whatever this once was, it has numerous large chambers and an intricate design. Though some of its infrastructure is damaged, these abandoned halls may still prove useful to the swarm. The worms are tasked with removing the corpses, the stench of disease hangs far too pungently in the air for these bodies to be deemed of any use in corpse-crafting, even less as a snack. They burrow around shallow beneath the surface of the pathways, searching for anything that's as small as a dwarf. Whatever is suspected to be a corpse is quickly grabbed from below and dragged underground, where it is buried so it may rot without risking the expansionary forces.

-Once the mountain is cleared of the dead, the ants send in some of their forces to expand into its heart. The ruins may for now be exactly that, ruined, but overtime these halls will be restored to outmatch their former splendor. Meanwhile, a mass of Tu'Karn move to claim the hills to the South of the wall.

>>4161305
>Diplo: Cravers
The aid of the cravers is most welcomed, their innovations truly brilliant. Once word reaches the scholars of this idea, they make way to the Charnel Islands, to the great flesh vats. For the time being, the scholars and the monks go over the ideas of the masters of flesh. "The design of these carapaces are outstanding, you've outdone yourselves!" the scholars exclaim. The parties prepare themselves to collaborate on this project, their work set to begin in the near future.

>>4164968
>Diplo: Cravers (Extended)
~~The parties prepare themselves to collaborate on this project, their work set to begin in the near future~~
The parties begin their work, the cravers perfect the design to fit more to the frame of the Karnis. Special links are grafted to the the scholars' natural carapace, so that the suit may be easily secured to them and detached when no longer needed. Though it takes time to get used to it, it's manages to encompass the ants snugly and safely, so well does it fit in fact that if it wasn't for the strange smell and color one could easily mistake the suit for their natural look!

>>4164722
First disturbing flesh creatures from the north, now strange quarter-men from the east approach? Once again, wary of yet more Grittidim, whoever comes to the village are first halted by FHDRF troops, and word is sent back to the Commander of yet more arrivals.

>>4165054
The meluz at the gate, disappointed that they were unable to enter on proper diplomatic terms, leave their pottery and its emerald contents at the gate. If they feel so insecure about it, then they can just come pick it up when we're gone.

>>4162956
The Glydenthrong would recognize the word "Akkhar" to mean "anger event" in Ashen.

"We are forged to wage Akkhar. To free the oppressed and fell the oppressors."

File: Map45.png (513 KB, 2048x2628)

513 KB PNG

SCENE FIVE

>>4161104
>Tarn
(>>4164968) The Tarnic plan was foolproof, or so it had seemed, for one should never underestimate the tenacity of a fool or in this case, the Ashen. Their tight, claustrophobic tunnels cause even the smaller Sable Ant grief, and being now full of carnage of the Ashen civil war, lingers with dread and foul miasma. Still, rubber may find it's way into the hands of the Tarn either through Vossik lands and then by boat or Gyldholm, or the shorter route through once-Dwarven fields and cutting through the outskirts of Meluzina. No matter the way chosen, the rubber will arrive as hard bricks, needing to be melted at high heats to be pliable enough for working.
(>>4161141) The mountains possess many dangers, rockfall, avalanche, and feral goats to name a few. Whilst the more stubborn minded are left to contend with these, a delegation is sent to the Gylden to assist in reaching the fabled Mint, knowing however that they will have to crouch the entire journey.

>>4161141
>Gyldenthrong
The bodies, and the pieces of bodies, are moved to a side passage, and the chimneys opened to vent the miasma. As Dwarves hurry past the dead, they each say their own prayers. As the expedition continues, they are halted by the sound of Ashen speech, and the light of fire up ahead. Cautiously they make their way forward, only to be met with gruff shouts from both in front and behind them as Ashen appear from the shadows, crossbows in hand. "Why such trespass, golden folk?!" It is not going to be an easy journey it seems.
Now this is more like it, think the silver bearded Dwarves. A brewery for the real stuff, the strong stuff. Ashen disgusted by the concessions made to those Elves, flock to the new sites, and soon two distinctly Ashen brews enter the market: Electrumal, named for it's colour as well as the location of it's brewery, and Pilgrim's Choice, favoured by those close by the volcanic outpost of the Akkhar Dwarves.

>>4161193
>Akkhar Dwarves
When the Akkhar Dwarves arrive at a Talgt'heim to inform the Emerald Kin of their new position, they find the modest hall little more than a ruin. Inside a campfire burns, surrounded by the half dozen or so Tallaght. Incensed that the false-hearted Dwarves would dare show their face after stopping the supply of goats and ales they had grown accustomed to, the greenskinned ones tear the representatives to pieces, literally. Still living they have their flesh peeled off in strips from their fatty bodies, eaten raw or else smoked. Eventually the blood loss is too much, and the Dwarves mercifully die. None escape to tell of the betrayal of the Tallaght against the Dwarves, but when the delegation does not return there will no doubt be questions.
(>>4161104 >>4161141 >>4162257) A Dwarf with a white beard arrives at the border, message in hand. The Dwarves you once called Ashen, are no more. Foe or Friend or Brother, no more. The Akkhar will do away with the past and forge their future anew.

>Akkhar Dwarves cont.
At great expense, the manifesto of the revolution is forced into the hands of every Dwarf in the mountainhome. Laws and dictates are posted in the halls and meeting places, even the forges are graced with the edicts of the Elders. As for the Grand Forge, it was to be expanded throughout, democratised so that no longer it is to be jealously hoarded by only the "best". Such notions are to be done away with! The knowledge passed down of automation however was through the use of water wheels to drive bellows, hammers, etc., and here amidst the tundra there is little flowing water to utilise.

>>4161229
>FHR
(>>4164170) A further two expeditions are sent to the colony, though through a much more sensible route, through Nomach. Travel is stymied by the dirt tracks which connect the Hacmosi together, but it is still faster than the circuitous routes of the first teams. The crew is stopped however once they reach Coerthya, the city at the south entrance of the Northern Pass, for the Vossaya has closed the borders to the armed Men. There is some back-and-fourth, a thorough search of their things, and under Elven guard the civilians are allowed through, though the soldiers are turned back west. It appears the Elves are just as paranoid as their short-eared counterparts.
The engineers arrive in Vadna, sans their ballistae, and only slightly disheartened by the lack of trees, set about fortifying to the best of their abilities. In abundance however is the finely cut, un-mortared stones of the northern wall. The scientists likewise arrive with half of their instruments sent back home with their guards, leaving them ill-prepared, but still eager.

>>4161834
>Llychlyn
With such a monumental task ahead, the nicety of the cobbled roads of the cities would have to wait. Tracks are defined and cleared of obstructions of any kind, the roads mapped, and hazards addressed. Though not as glamorous an achievement as the temples or clan halls, this may well be the most advantageous to the common Fanwyn.
FHR texts are scant on their descriptions of the magics they possess. In fact, the only supposed source of magics in their nation is their Human Gods and Goddesses, who as Fanw had with Blessèd Steel, bestowed upon them the gifts of healing and thunderous charge. As for the validity of such statement, that cannot be said, and the idea of introducing these Human Gods to gain their blessing is unthinkable. They were after all the Children of the One True Goddess, Fanw. And so of FHR magics, no progress can be made. But there are other races, who most assuredly, if the Men have it, also possess magics.

>>4162261
>B'yogi
(>>4161104 >>4161141) B'yogi arrive through Gylden lands to ascend the steep passage up to the Visage of Therkuunaz, here to study it with the Tarn. The Ashen carved face is certainly striking, for the Mountain Dwarves certainly knew how to sculpt. The face of the God is remarkably detailed, from his fiery eyes right down to the wisps of his flaming beard, but of a godly presence little is felt. This is of course, only for the assembled researchers, Ashen pilgrims, as well as curious Gylden, state that there is a radiance from the thing, which soothes the spirit and renews resolve. A B'oo suggests it is the power of faith which causes such a phenomenon, were the Garn or the B'yogi to worship this Turkeenarse, they too would feel His power here.
With Garnish technique, the drilling of the Children of the Three, S'cie's Hunger, H'pabi's Fury, & city guard begins.

>>4163072
>Cravers
[B] Inspiration strikes a researcher at the Flesh Vats once the second spore-ing commences. What if they were to enflesh the mindless shroomlings, and graft their bodies to the gored torso of the Nuck'lavee. A hundred legs is better than none, after all. There is some chatter amongst the researchers, and word is sent to the Priest-Captain who manages the affairs of the creature. Should he agree, the plan will commence.
(>>4161229) Where the Cravers knew the phosphates to lay, they find the ground has been backfilled by the fleeing Ashen, and unbeknownst to them the Men have built on this rocky ground a research site to study the obelisk that the Cravers too wish to study. It is an unfortunate turn of events indeed. Only very slightly deterred, the Cravers set about boring into the earth to reach the once Dwarven only treasure. Of the obelisk however, it too is controlled by these interloping Men, who it seems have already found the thing's fascinating property.
(>>4164968) Experienced fleshcrafters make their way to Labyrinth and the Meteor Lab to both teach their art and aid in the creation of an additional exo-carapace to protect the Ants from the poisonous air which emanates from their quandary.

>>4164170
>Vossik
(again, another turn I can't add to, well done)
(>>4161229) Human messengers arrive at the Mountain Pass, begging travel, for there is news which must reach the Daiimad.

>>4164659
>Meluzina
Whether through divine inspiration, technological osmosis, or if it really was the brainchild of the Meluz, a water wheel is built in the Old Soghoian river. However, being called by the Frogfolk "The Lazy River" for a reason, it provides a third of the power of wheels such as those in Jaakal & Dravana. Still, it works, and frees the hands of, well, no one at present, but it is proof of concept at least.

>Meluzina cont.
Meluz find that Tula'krel and the surrounding mining town have been overrun with Men and Beasts of Flesh, of which the former are investigating the doors to the underworld of the old lords. A little further south the mountains prove to be too immense to scale, even for the Racers. It is possible that a Meluz or two at the farming commune may know the way to unlock the mighty copper doors to allow access.

>>4164968
>Karnis
The Ants arrive in the crumbled capital of the Ashen, the site of the worst battles of the Dwarven civil war. Bodies lay in part three or four deep, of every strata and age there are dead. None were spared the frenzy of the slaughter, not even the beardlings. There are far too many corpses in the main hall to be buried in such a way as had been done in the thoroughfare, but as Ants drag bodies into side-passages, they find yet more dead. It will be a monumental task to clear the place of them, let alone scrub the stench of Dwarf and Death from the place.
With the Dwarves no longer present, the hills and the feral goats grazing there are snapped up by the Ants.

DIPLO
>>4164118
The Ashen grumbled into his beard, muttering in Dwarven "towers full o' squatters". At the demands of the Elves his beady eyes grew wide, seeming to froth at the mouth he accuses the Vossik representative of wanting to steal Ashen land, desecrate Ashen mines, lay waste to Ashen villages and make off with that most precious of Ashen commodities, ale. It takes three Gylden to hold him down as he continues to curse and insult, and as he will not settle, he is dragged out of the room leaving the Gylden representative to only sigh and apologise profusely.

END OF SCENE FIVE.

>>4165372
>>4164170
Upon the return of the soldiers, the Daiimad is outraged. The elves only now would deny those brave expeditionaries across the mountains protection and defense? No. This cannot be allowed to stand. Not now. Not ever. This time, the FHR would stand it's ground. FHRDF forces in the major border forts and numerous outposts would be sent word to be on the ready for any and all orders sent to them in the next few weeks. The FHRDN would be told to deny port to any and all Vossik ships until the matter is resolved. Furthermore, representatives would be sent to the Vossiks with an Ultimatum. Either FHRDF forces are allowed to continue though Vossik lands until they reach Vadna so long as they keep to their promise of solely guarding those civilians sent, or there would be consequences up to and including total cessation of trade, deportation of Vossik citizens back to their own lands, and acceptance for the blame if anything were to happen to Vadna which could have been avoided by intervention by FHRDF forces.

1. Partial mobilization and preparedness in case of Vossik aggression in reaction to the demands of the Daiimad. Fortresses ensured to be supplied and maintained, training exercises and wargames for the FHRDF well inside FHR borders, and the training of Militia as well as Guerrilla forces in the case of full scale invasion.
As always, the FHR would not make the first move in a conflict, but they would be ready to handle whatever comes next.

2. Meanwhile, in Vadna, news that no further expeditions would be making their way spread worry thought the town. They were no where near self sufficient yet, and if things were not resolved back home within (Lets say 2 turns), then food stocks would run low enough for mandatory low-rationing for all residents. Commander Alek thus ordered that farms be started. If the homeland would not be able to send more supplies, they would have to make do with what they had. Sacrificing some grain and vegetable stores, seeds are planted. If Denok smiles upon them, it should be enough that if it grows well, the town won't have to deal with hunger. If not, then emergency actions would need to be preformed for the sake of the colonists.

>>4165437
The Vossik diplomats are utterly unmoved by the pleas and the ultimatums of their Adrenthi counterpart. They calmly bring up that permission was granted for explorers to go through the pass, not massive columns of colonists. The FHR had negotiated initially in bad faith. They could oust Vossik merchants, but doing so would do more harm to the FHR's economy than the Vossik who relied on the FHR for no goods or services. Without the Vossik Republic where would the wealthy get their art? The people get their cotton clothes? The commoner get access to food? The answer was a flat refusal. The lands of the former Ashenbeard kingdom were under negotiation of partition by the involved powers that had defeated it. The Andrethi Republic was /not/ a power invited to the proceedings, and would certainly not be getting a cut of land they did nothing for. Moreover, the Andrethi Republic had dealt with the Vossaya in bad faith by refusing to lay bare its intentions. It had aimed to deceive and obfuscate from the beginning, and such actions were becoming frustratingly commonplace from the halls of Andreth. If the humans sought to cut ties, that was fine.

>>4165372
This calls for war.
Action 1: Prepare for War
Action 2: Put the full brunt of the Dwarven Revolutionary army to hammer down on the Emerald Kin

Any who resist will be slaughtered, all who don't go into the reeducation Camp. There is not much left of the Dwarves, but what remains is a indoctrinated and ready to pay the prize for freedom and liberty with their own blood.

>>4165375

Upon the realization that the magics of the FHR were from their gods, and the simple fact that blessed steel came from Fanw's own power, it clicked to Rhisiart. In order for his plan to work, it would require that he find out the proper rituals to apply power granted by Fanw to flow into the words and imbue what those words were written upon with a desired effect. From his understanding now, magic came from gods and their blessings. It was something divine, yet through his further work, he would find that it was somewhat different to that which priests of clan Howell used for divination or similar. While holy in nature, and requiring one of good faith, it didn't require priests or sacrifice, merely those of good heart, proper techniques. Using the limited knowledge he was given by Nist, which was mostly thanks to Blodwyn's orders that they provide at least some details on their side of the process, he would be able to piece together something. Blessed steel was a combination of both divine and holy magic. The difference between the two being divine requiring priests and sacrifice, and holy not requiring such, merely the right words, and actions in movement. One allowed access to tapping into that power for other purposes, the other in enhancing something else...In other words, Geiriau Grym was entirely possible. He'd ponder however, if it was Fanw who guided him to the idea in the first place, similar to what she did with Arwen and Rhodri? Or did he figure this out on his own? A question he'd not have answered unless he met Fanw, he knew.

Meanwhile, in Lunedannedd, a large number of Gwethwr class ships, flying the flag of Llychlyn with clan Wynn's emblem would load plenty of equipment and food before setting off. Clan Llewelyn had a town in the form of Lunedannedd, Cadigan in the form of the capital Allfshys. So, Wynn believed it would be best to make their own in the lands they knew were unclaimed to the south. The idea being that the positioning would be able to bring in wealth through trade and the harsh environment allowing their soldiers to become stronger. They'd set off, and going further south east than even Tirwin, and utilizing maps from the Tarn. They'd name the town Castellpwyntrhew, and the main constructions made early on other than houses would be a port. There was plenty of hope that later on, the town would become a true fortress where the best of Llychlyn's army were trained. But that is for the future, and for now, they'd rely on imports of food from the mainland and fishing.

>Action One. Work on figuring out how to potentially do a ritual to imbue power based on the words written into something, along with the nature of divine and holy magic.

>Action Two. Clan Wynn shall found Castellpwyntrhew in the unclaimed land to the south. Unknowing they likely would have to deal with some very hostile natives.

>>4165457
>>4165502
Once the representatives relay the information to the Daiimad, within the next few weeks Vossik trade would be halted completely. Vossik merchants and others living within the FHR were deported, whether they wanted to leave or not, they were dropped off on the border and sent back. While such actions went on, the Daiimad looked to the south. Through the Children of Fanw, long close partners of the FHR, food would be imported from the Gylden Dwarves. Of course, there would be a disruption in the food supply, and thus limited rationing, that which was also done during the time of the Plague was implemented in advance of the estimated disruption, and while people were upset, the Daiimad was aware such would occur. The military exercises would be lighter then usual, in the interests of conserving food stores. and Caldathi fishing fleets would push both northward and southward in order to provide more food for the homeland. The FHR was no stranger to rough times, and every golden age had it's hiccups. This was just one of those.

>>4163072
On the other side of the mountain range, aside from the looming issues of food and material shortages, they now had no way of sending word. No way, unless the flesh-things had some way of getting them back home. Such actions would be in both of their self interests, as the Daiimad would most likely look favorably upon another nation assisting their cut off peoples. While they may look alien and downright disturbing, they have already proven to be a civilized people, seeking a quite acceptable compromise between their peoples. And thus the question is brought. Could the Cravers bring members of the Vadna expedition back to the FHR?

1. Extraordinary Measures
The Chamber exists primarily for one purpose - to ensure that Vossik business continues in a profitable fashion. The hiccups in the FHR are far from any exception to the rule. One could say that the Chamber exists, in part, to handle such eventualities. Chamberlads, long embedded in the FHR in both legal and illegal capacities, ferment and stoke the fires of revolution in Senday. The river feeding the city slows to a trickle, and much of the countryside in the coming year would find itself in a drought, starved of water from the river. The actions were made easier by a number of simple realities. One, the Daiimad, a long distant government, had condemned the residents of this area to starvation over their attempt to acquire more land. Now everyone would suffer. Two, proximity to the Elven border had long allowed for a degree of market and cultural penetration that simply wasn't seen elsewhere in the FHR as Senday had long been one of the primary trading hubs and ports of entry. It was here that the majority of Vossik traders were found and Vossik goods sold then transported to the wider country. Three: The disruption in trade would more badly affect Senday than it would any other area of the FHR. Trade between the two cities had caused both ports to flourish, and many of the wealthy in Senday would find their condemnation by the Daiimad yet another in a long stretch of overreach and mercantilism that more badly affected the wealthy of the city than the wealthy in Andreth. It was among these middle and upper classes that the Chamberlads found it easiest to focus their efforts. While the entire country may suffer, it would be this area that suffered the hardest. Meanwhile, just over the river, the citizens of Terrata found little disruption. They were fed, and held their weekly Sun Day feast - something no Andrethi was invited to as they had closed the border on their own side - and the food once earmarked for hungry humans now went to other markets in Karnis. The ferment of revolution was made possible only by the combination of these 3 realities and while Chamberlads might be found as far afield as the capitol itself, they did little more than acquire information for their erstwhile masters in Renthum and Terrata.

As for the deported - they were transported to Dravana, where the newly constructed mass housing could better accommodate them. Many of means decided to settle in Terrata instead, and simply wait for this storm to blow over as every other spat with the Andrethi had. There was of course a saying among those that did business there, "If a wind blows, it likely comes from an Andrethi politician." Pogroms and tensions were nothing new, and the most successful merchants had some contingencies to handle it. Elezen were long lived afterall, and some had seen the first such measures taken against them centuries earlier.

>>4165502
>>4161104
>>4164326
To the Major trading partners of the FHR, in the short grace period before the official cutting of contact with the Vossiks, requests for a strengthening of trade are made. A pseudo Trade-bloc among these nations. While they all trade with the FHR for food, it would increase general trade among the 4 nations overall. A net benefit for everyone involved.

>>4165892
The tidal empire understands that the FHR's industrial capacity is impressive, and that even from the scant examples the Tidal Empire have seen that her technological marvels are well worth it. The vossiks offer very little to us, and the FHS so much, thus the Tidal Empire will strengthen trade.

>>4165784
2. Market Corrections

In the aftermath of the FHR's decision to punt the Republic out of its market, food exporters and farmers turn elsewhere to find a market. Where they find one, is in Volodek. In the months following the initial shock, food begins being transported around the continent in Volodekian carracks to be sold at the market there instead of the original grain market in Terrata. The result ultimately winds up with a vastly increased amount of food for purchase by interested parties out of Volodek. That market had not seen the amount of Elezen staples that were now coming into it. Beans, maize, citrus fruits, and some mountain spices arrived in a port where they were rarely spotted for access by merchants that previously would have needed to travel across the continent or high up into the mountains to get them. From contacts in Volodek the food merchants of the Republic found themselves able to continue exporting their wares to other partners. This was not without some pains, of course. The first correction was rough and time needed to be taken to indentify another market in the first place. Additionally, Volodek already had its own grain market primarily run by Hacmosi merchants, who did not appreciate the sudden influx of Elezen goods into their market. Still, money talked, and between Elezen gold and Hacmosi silver, space was secured. Thankfully, the city had recent gone through renovations, particularly to the docks and merchant spaces, that permitted the expansion of trade in the port city.

>>4165892

The Free Human Republic has been the first of the nations of the continent to talk to us, and we have foreseen that tensions would rise eventually. In fact, we've even warned them what Fanw has us. We will gladly increase our trade, for it will be mutually beneficial to our nations, and increasing the capacity of trade has been one of the goals over the past couple of years. Should conflict arise, as we believe it will, Blodwyn will be sent over as a military attaché, and the FHR can request blades and bolts made to their specifications from Clan Nist should they wish to be able to have weapons of a special material we have had for some time, Blessed Steel, seeing how there is no threat to selling it.

Mai Fanw gwyliwch allan amdanoch chi yn eich rhyfel masnach.

>>4165892
The Tarns being major importers of food as well, they have little way of helping the FHR directly. However, the Council does promise to increase their purchases of FHR steel, giving the FHR more money with with to purchase food from other groups. The Council hopes this will be sufficient to take at least some of the strain off of New Andreth, and promises the Republic that the Tarnish Nation is willing to provide whatever additional support they require.

>>4165495
A diplomatic envoy is dispatched to the Akkhar capital, returning with the diplomat that had been sent to the Tarnlands. Their purpose is to suss out whether or not the Copper Dwarves will be valued friends and trading partners, or if they will be as belligerent and aggressive as their predecessors. Among the question they ask:
What will be the Copper Dwarves position on trespassers?
Will the Coppers continue to harbor the Flesheaters, the Redcap Goblins who are broadly reputed throughout the Tarnlands as cannibals and monsters?
Will the Copper Dwarves be willing to accept Tarnish trade ships traveling their coasts and rivers?

>>4165922
Tarnish merchants greedily engorge themselves on the large quantities of newly available food, their markets strained by the dual demands of the Tarnish and FHR appetites. The Vossiks quickly find their new surpluses evaporated, replaced by large quantities of gold and ravenous pack of traders looking expectantly for more.

>>4165892
Their food crunch alleviated somewhat by the Vossik outpouring of agricultural goods, Tarnish merchants begin shipping some foods to FHR lands. While their contribution will most likely be dwarfed by other trading partners, any amount of food at this point will no doubt be helpful.

>>4165959
Vossik merchants are more than happy to sell goods to another power, especially one as hungry for food as the Tarn. If they want corn, the Republic has entire fields of it and if the FHR doesn't want it the Tarn can have it. Sure, it's a little more expensive than it might be in Terrata - shipping has its costs - but there's still a lot of it. Vossik merchants come up with a plan to even ship it directly from Terrata to Xythcos if the Tarnic merchants are willing to pay for it. Such activity would cut a substantial amount of time out of the entire process and even be cheaper in the long run. The irony, of course, would be that Vossik foodstuffs wind up right back in the FHR with the kostermen counting their profits in exactly the same way as they did as before all of this happened.

Independently, one of the first official diplomats arrives from the Republic. The diplomat explains that they have a simple mission, to largely secure non-aggression pacts from other powers with interest in Sigord's Spine. The previous conflicts over the peaks caused enough of a headache without further violence occurring over them. The Republic, with its borders secured by the peaks and rivers, has reached the threshold of its territorial ambition with no further interested in expanding further. Additionally, conflict between the powers of Sigord's Spine would threaten the valuable trade developing in the wake of Ashen dominance over the center of the continent and that was something that all powers should seek to avoid.

>>4165941
All trespassers will be detained, questioned and then deported into their country of origin. This policy does not apply to refugees from Invuld Tyranny looking to join the Akkhar.

Cannibalism is punishable by death, but no brother wishing to aid the revolutionary cause will be turned away, be they pile of flesh or redcapt. You can be sure though that if anyone in our midst commits cannibalism or monstrous acts they will be held to account.

As long as an appropriate toll is paid your ships are welcome to make use of our coasts and rivers. Only an Invuldvergz would prohibit one from using what he leaves unused.

>>4165376
Actions:
-The extent of the carnage was sorely underestimated. The corpses pile one after the other, too numerous to count. As the Karnis think over what course of action to take next, a suggestion comes from the Cravers. "Why not let them make amends in death for their wrongs in life?". The Kahro wormlings are the perfect macabre solution to give them this final chance. As the ants walk through the hallways, they seed the wormlings over the bodies. All that is left is to remain patient and hope for a bountiful harvest.

-Equipped with the latest innovation from the Charnel Islands, the scholars brave the ominous meteoric tunnel leading towards the Celestial core. The frost itself creeps slightly across their exo-carapace, but the stench of decay is absent as they make their way deeper. What will they learn from this strange object? They are filled with almost as much anxiety as they are curiosity, the urge to uncover its secrets matched only by the unease of having to face the unknown. Yet they must press on, for both progress, and the Matriarch demands it.

>>4165437
>>4163072
>Diplo: Cravers + FHR
As flesh crafts flesh, it is only fitting that those who dwell within the earth hold dominion over it. At the request of their noble ally, the ants send their workers and Re'Karo to aid them in their efforts at the mines. It is much to their surprise, however that they would stumble upon another familiar face. Humans of the west have made their way here, and as unexpected as it might be, the Karnis are always thrilled to a see a friend. A princess in charge of overseeing the operation approaches the Republicans. "Greetings mighty men, a pleasant surprise it is to find you in these lands! You must have endured quite the journey to make your way here, traversing Sigord's Spine is no easy feat, even for us. What brings you to our side of the world?"

>>4164627
>>4164228
>>4164717
>>4164968

>Diplomacy: Cravers, Tidal, Meluzia, Karnis

Rathi, after some examination, voices to his surprise that he finds the treaty of the doctrines broadly agreeable. He doesn't really know the detail of local Geography required to understand the second doctrine, of course, but trusts that the Deepaun and Meluz delegates would have better grasp of the full implications. It sounds like a peace with honour for both sides, and that's good for him, good for the Gylden, and he voices as such. "The Gyldenthrong entered this war to defend cousins under attack, but we could not defend them against an attack from themselves. Now the Ashen Invuld and the kingdom of the mountains lies broken by its own hands, our sole reason for continuing this struggle would be to assure the safety of those we fought alongside. If this treaty makes those assurances, we would sign it."

>>4165376
1. The next city we will improve is the city of Passion, our center of production. (better production routes, defense, living conditions, and so on.)
2.Research advance Metallurgy to further strengthen our weapons and building materials
Rumor, please.

>>4165941
B'yogi rely their information they gather from studying the Ash One's monument to their god. Apparently, there is no power unless you have faith in the god.

>>4165376
Action 1:
Using our 6 capable warships (the surface warships) we send large shipments of food, whatever we can get our hands on from the excess and markets of other nations to the FHR, doing our best to beat out the tarn and other nations to the markets so we can sell at top prices. Our 3 submersible specialist warships will be parked in the general area just incase anything goes down.
Also all soldiers both mercenary and not are pulled back, assuming their contract is not yet null. They are to be attached as escorts to the ships and the others will be sent back home with their kit, so that if duty calls they can be rapidly mobilized.
Action 2:
Retool our industry to be capable of producing market commodities, modifying the designs of our weapons to be a cheap alternative to heavy crossbows. Other items produced are farm tools, metal building materials and goods to be bought and sold within the empire.
Action 3:
It has recently come to our attention that an untapped source of fossils exists on our main island. This deposit had been oversighted previously but now we can see that it would be an excellent thing to sacrifice to Obadinia. Thus we construct a mine to extract such important and valuable artifacts. They must be given to the creator, he deserves it for blessing us so.
Action 4:
Our exploration into magic has been limited so far, yet still we desire to become more diverse in our abilities so that we can prove that we are not simply rip-offs of the b'oo.
As we can create electricity perhaps we can also take it away, using the electricity bending abilities of our powers we can reverse our abilities to sap what little electricity we can find in our foes and absorbing it into ourselves, at worst it will incapacitate them and ideally it will kill them.
The Shadow Temple is ordered to study this and develop it, for the glory of the Tidal Empire!
>>4166619 (diplo - Akkhar Dwarves)
We dragons once traded among the Akkhar during the days of the Ashen Empire, and we have returned to trade once more. The same rules may apply, no flying in your territory, we get to trade on the coast. No strings attached.
>>4165926 (diplo - Llychlyn)
A Depaun ship arrives in Lunedannedd, bringing an offer of trade.
We desire to add you to our registry of locations, so that our ships can visit you, bringing you luxuries from across the world, not only so but books as well, as we desire to learn your language and then copy and translate books in your tongue.

>>4167733
The ship would be seen with plenty of curiosity, and before it even docked, one or two Llewelyn shipbuilders were examining the ship from a distance to learn its hull shape and possibly how it could be so large, and fast, along with other advantages the design had. However, communication would be fairly quick to begin, and their request would be met with a request of the Children of Fanw's own. The ability to learn the dragonic folk's own language, in exchange, they'd teach their own language to them. However, regardless of if they accepted or not, they'd accept being added to their 'registry' of trade locations, especially considering how many goods they started to gain. Speaking of trade, Clan Tudor would also be swift to buy plenty books as well, noticeably ones on science and magic.

>>4165376
1.
The Priest Captain acquiesces with gusto, thrilled with the implications of such improvements being made to the holy tool/creature. The reasarch are forced to make it worth his while however, sending supplies to continue the work upon the Grist'lung.

2.
[Expansion]
The open tiles that are claimed are now officially brought into the fold. Phosphate from the mine begins being stored for sale, the FHR settler are returned home if they wish, but are free to stay in their sanctioned zones if they wish to try to tough it out. The Cravers offer to feed them should their supplies be cut as well.

Bump because fuck it why not?

>>4164237

>Diplomacy: B'oo
And the Gylden ship moves into the Harbour. The Gylden disembarking from this ship are, in the majority, from Æblekag and the surrounding woodlands; and bring with them tankards of potent cider to share with their hosts. They also lead a pair of bristly boar down the gangplank, and these are followed in turn by a trio of rather odd Dwarves by the Gylden's own standards, Dwarves who wear bands of silver and applewood. One among them only has a very slight and whispy beard, and another's chin being almost scandalously visible. The latter of these Dwarves would offer the B'oo to plant some appleseed about their town as a binding, a blessing; and perhaps sometime in the future a grove of apples of their own.


>>4165372
>Diplomacy: Menacingly Crossbow-wielding Ashenbeards

The Thane of Dukkezop scowls behind his beard, and looks the Ashen in his eyes. Behind him his Dwarves, veterans of the flesh-wars, have hands upon their own crossbows; but he does not want to be the cause of further bloodshed in a place already so drenched. "The Invuld lies fallen and broken." he answers. "Your tunnels lie choked with your own corpses, the air made foul and noxious. We were sent up here to preserve and retrieve Dwarves and Dwarven artifacts for continuing Dwarf civilization. You are welcome to join us, if you would wish for Ales and food; or if you prefer, there is passage we could offer to Zarjotun'torzdun. But if you prefer, we could leave you here, in the dark with nowt to drink. Going hungry, going thirsty. Going *sober*."

>>4164118

>Diplomacy: Vossik
Shrewd? Certainly. But far from Diplomatic. The Ashen may have been left spluttering in rage from the Elven pronouncement, but the Gylden Dwarves are far from best pleased with the suggestion themselves. Tonth quietly informs Charles that, no, this is *not* the convenient outcome he would have liked and had suggested. He had tried his best to make a generous offer to the Gylden's Vossik trade-partners for restitution of crimes that were not truly theirs to bear, and instead finds himself presented with a bill that would now be politically and socially ruinous to swallow. No, the Gylden cannot in good conscience simply sell or surrender an ancient Dwarven mine that was struck legitimately on Dwarven land in well and frequent use; one not even sited within the marshlands that had once been questioned.

He apologies to Charles, and assures him that the Gylden will still make attempt to investigate the evidence they have to hand and work out what took place; but initial investigations have not proven positive. Opening up Ashen tunnels has found them drenched in gore and corpses; whatever factions might have formed in the civil wars they had raged, the Gylden so far are suspecting they might have been responsible for the likely death of ninety percent of the total Ashenbeard populous. Statistically, it is most probable any organizer - if it was indeed and organized event - would now lie dead. Perhaps the Vossik should try to speak to those remaining Ashenbeards on their own borders? He passes over a section of an ancient trade map; the Ashen once held mines for Gold and Coal on mountains close to the Vossik border. Perhaps the Elezen could investigate these sites? If these have shared the fate of the Invuld, they may now be uninhabited, and the Vossik could find themselves the restitution they seek without causing anger to any alive.

And speaking of the Ashenbeard populous he has heard conflicting rumours; some speak of a new Ashen Invuld proclaimed in the far, fiery and frozen reaches of the distant south, and others of a new nation now pledged to waging eternal Anger-events. Either way, there is a successor-state to the Ashenbeards; perhaps they would be better to talk to if the Republic still needs further financial recompense? The Gylden will still pay golden recompense to the families for any elves that died on Dwarven soil, but let that be an end to the matter. Let us confirm our river borders, and may they stand respected for all time, and let trade still flow freely.

>>4165372

>Action 1: Bank Guards

With so many of the borders of the Gylden state's borders lying on flowing rivers, it is decided that special divisions are required to effectively guard and patrol the banks of these flows, to catch trespassers and smugglers trying to cross to the Gylden side or those who would block the flow of commercial traffic. The Kolov'urlag, guards of the waterways, receive equipment that is designed and forged to be resistant to water and the effects of corrosion. As their first task, they are sent into the Marshes on the Gylden side of the Volozam. They are to detain and return any Elf that might try to illegally cross the river into Dwarven land, to detain any Ashenbeard that might be looking to cross the river and seek vengeance, and to scour the marshes for any Elven corpses, so these can be identified and returned to the republic, and fair gold paid to the families for their losses as restitution.


>Action 2: Silver Protectors

The order of Æblemor looks deeper and tries to learn more about their defensive and protective magics, hoping to improve their techniques or uncover more secrets. Can a band of woven blessed appleroot really ward off malicious magic? Is silver truly reflective of magical energies?

>>4165376
>1: further hot air balloon testing
In order to take our new technology for a true test run, we decide that it would be best to soar over the dwarven mountains in our balloons of hot air. Surely, the view must be magnificent. (as the meluz are unaware of the sheer force that jet-streams can offer, it's likely this won't go well.) We don our brave pilot's balloon with the pattern of our flag, so that any onlookers may know that we were the ones to pioneer such technology.

>2: the first "assembly line"
at our recently-constructed mill, we feel that there's quite a few problems that this wonderful piece of machinery could solve. Namely, our shortage of hot air balloon fuel mechanisms. Using the power, provided by our wind mill, we create a sort of mover, which transports anything you put on it. This "mover" is made of many different pieces of wood, all equal in size, and all connected via a set of hinges.
Long before it arrives here, the steel used to make our hot air balloon fuel mechanisms is cooled and molded in the form of its respective part. This "production plant" is used solely as a place for assembly. Workers will line the mover, and each will have one specific job. To put a single part in its place, and then pass the device on to the next worker in line. finished products will then be shipped to the Tarn, so they may fill them with gas, and return them to us.

>>4167733
The Akkhar Dwarves agree
*your diplomat is handed a small red book*

>>4168265
Charles counters the Gylden. Those mountains were uninhabitable by Elezen and no self-respecting Elezen would agree to live below ground. The Republic still sought to purchase the wetlands, but if the mine was not for sale the copper should be. The Ashen had cut the Republic off from its trade network when they opened hostilities with the Karnis and the Republic hadn't had access to copper since. If the Gylden would step in to relieve such embargos so that the Republic would have access to copper it would withdraw its request to purchase the mines.

"The Gylden are friends faced with a difficult proposition; torn between duty and trade. It is no easy thing to choose, and the last thing I want to do is make a difficult situation more difficult."

>>4165372
Action 1: Work continues at the natural gas refineries. The fire that ripped through the area served to clear out most of the shoddier and abandoned pipeworks, giving those with the most resources and best practices more space to expand. The next major revolution in extraction comes with the introduction of rubber. While still a luxury good until the trade routes clear up, the little that finds its way to the refineries is quickly finds use as a sealant and waterproofer. Some of the more superstitious gasmen even take to painting their entire contraptions in a thin layer of the stuff, claiming that doing so prevents devils from worming their way into the pipes and causing havoc from within.

As always, what little gas is able to be extracted is sent north to assist the snakes in their quest for flight.

Action 2: With the overland trade routes still choked with dwarves, living and otherwise, trade with the Karnis must occur over sea. Such a trade route, however, would be the longest ever undertaken by anyone on the continent, Tarn or otherwise. It would require ships larger and more robust that any yet devised. Three such ships are commissioned from the Tarnish dockworks at Gyldholm by the Council of Cities. The ships are manned by a small town's worth of men and can hold two months worth of food when fully loaded. Each is equipped with a dozen enormous oars, all connected by a single steel chain and driven by a dozen tuskers bred and trained specifically for that purpose. Blueprints drawn up at Xycthos are transported carefully west, where the massive hulls are already beginning to take shape.

>>4167285
hmm, interesting. The Tarn's ask the B'yogi if there is a way to expel Therkunnaz from the area and install their own god in his place.

>>4165941
The answers are for the most part acceptable. The dwarves certainly seem more reasonable that their predecessors. The only concerning position to the Tarns would be the Akkhar's seeming dalliance towards the Redcaps. The Tarns lightly warn their new neighbors of the risks of continuing to harbor such monsters.
Shortly afterwards, a Tarnish diplomat comes to the Akkhar requesting permission for Tarnish merchants to buy and sell goods in Akkhar land. While the merchants will not be permitted into Redcap areas for their own safety, they will surely bring great prosperity to the rest of the nation.

>>4166086
Direct shipping becomes the norm, helping to sate at least some of the Tarnish nations constant demand for food.
The non-aggression pact unfortunately cannot be accepted, given the current tensions between the FHR and Vossik nation. The Tarns have no desire to go to war with the Vossik, but the FHR are their allies and they are duty bound to support them in any altercation that may ensue. The Tarns are willing to act as mediators to help ensure that the conflict doesn't progress beyond harsh words, and will gladly accept the NAP once this unfortunate matter is resolved.

File: Map46.png (536 KB, 2048x2628)

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SCENE SIX

>>4165437
>FHR
The FHRDF are sent to the borders, doubling the guards, drilling the soldiers in preparedness for whatever may come. In Vadna, news spread worry through the settlement, especially that of food shortages. Old Tula'krel however had been the most bountiful of the Ashen farmlands, aided by the copious use of phosphate fertilisers still mingled in the soil. The sacrificed grain and vegetables will thrive in the fertile ground, but it will be a number of months before they can be harvested. As trade quickly winds down with the Elves of the Vossik Republic, rationing of imported staples riles up anger in Port Senday. Should outside food sources not meet demands, grain riots look to be on the horizon.
The residents of the port city awake a few mornings after to find the already suppressed Sendack River to be little more than a stream, halving their limited supply of potable water! Moreover, there is a rising distrust of the faraway Daiimad among the hybridised city, who had not only condemned the people to starve, but effectively criminalised their livelihoods in a single decree! Not to mention many merchants fear they were now stuck with worthless Vossik currency. As in almost every panic, whispers of Othinian betrayal spread. Yet most pressing for those in Andreth was talk of secession from the Republic into their own merchant state.
(in case you missed it, >>4166672 Karnis have arrived in Vadna)

>>4165495
>Akkhar Dwarves
Existing Ashen records show that the Emerald Kin are no more than ten in number, but are voracious in their appetite for goat and blood alike. In Dwarven Bronze armour, wielding heavy steel hammers and axes, the Akkhar Dwarves descend upon Talagt'heim to do away with the evil dwelling within. For such small a tribe, their are a near equal match for the Dwarves arrayed against them, their teeth and talons finding their way into the necks and protruding stomachs of the attackers. Even when they are eventually cut down their are a menace, for they burst into a gout of searing flame, singing the flesh and beards of the Dwarves nearby. When at last they are entirely wiped out, the battle leaves seven little piles of ash, twenty dead Dwarves, and as many more wounded.

>>4165502
>Llychlyn
Whether a stubborn hunch or divine inspiration, none can say, but Rhisiart was certain that the power of magics came not just from the Gods, but from the belief that the powers should work. More, both faith in the heavenly, and belief of their gifts results in magic's power. There were however, most definitely limits somewhere in the chain, most likely in the frailness of mortality which is the believer. With solid theory there must of course be practice, and so with the proven gift of Blessèd Steel, Rhisiart would carve into wood his first attempt at Geiriau Grym.

>Llychlyn cont.
The pick was unwieldy, but with patience, manageable. He would start small, something that would not be too much of an ask. Deep into the beam he scratched the runes for "cannwyll", and with a silent prayer, he draws back astonished. For from the grooves, ever so faintly like a sputtering reed, a dim glow emanates.
The colony ships of Castellpwyntrhew dock in the freezing waters of a natural bay, on the southern peninsula of the mainland. There is little in the way of resources in the barren ice wastes, the only green for miles in any direction is the yellowy growths of lichen on the few bare rocks. With no trees, one of the boats is sacrificed to become the housing and jetty of the hamlet, which will with patience and imports grow to a fine citadel.
[B] Settlers of Castellpwyntrhew search the wastes, finding little more than the early warning signs of frostbite. But as they trudged back to their new homes, one trips over something in the snow. A fishing spear, of ancient design no less. Hefty in weight, and of an unknown black metal. In her hands, it felt like it, belonged? As if it was hers. Strange. Stranger still, it proves that once, someone, or something, had been living on the ice.
In a terrible repeat of events, screaming noises and flaming lights dance in the forests south of Lunedannedd!

>>4165784
>Vossik
(see the second half of the FHR update for your action's effects) Almost every chamberlad sent into the barbarous state was of Othinian stock, being far less distinguishable from their fellow humans than the more defined features of the Elven race. They were indeed, it is said, the Gift of Baluur, but one the Elezen were quite happy to re-gift.
The markets of Volodek, and her Dwarven sister city across the river, fill with once Terratan delicacies and wonderments, where they may now be more easily snapped up by the Gylden, Tarn, and Tidal, perhaps even up to the fabled Meluz. (>>4168268 >>4165941 >>4167733 >>4164722, see, >>4165922)

>>4166672
>Karnis
It is not an hour before the whole battlefield wriggles to life. Bloated, hollow-eyed Dwarf corpses crawl off the piles, drawn back to their home nests to digest and reconstitute this bounteous flesh.
Even still the ice remains solid! It is a dense, blue core of ice, giving off waves of unnatural cold here in the desert. Frost creeps over the carapaces of the researchers as they study the thing as close as they dare get, still weary of the poisonous air which emanates from it. For all the suffering it has caused, it is almost disappointingly mundane, in appearance at least. It gives off no sound, at all, not even when struck. Nor does it crack or shatter, like the crystals the Ants had seen before. It is struck again, with a spiked pick, dislodging a minuscule shard of the stuff. With a sample, and sketches of the whole core, the scholars return to their chamber.

>>4167273
>B'yogi
[R] B'yogi have tried their shadowy hand at ships before, with limited success, but as the waterways around Simhyn fill with trading vessels of every shape and size, there are many who pine for the open sea. Perhaps it will be like it was, floating in the nothing of Before-and-After, or drifting along the Nevernever. There is a homesickness in the older B'oo.
Like Jubilation and Fright before it, Passion sees it's streets copied, forges doubled, and roads repaved.
Though the B'yogi have long been happy with the standard iron produced in their lands, the H'yomi of each kind speak of a metal much like it, but stronger. Stronger than iron! With a handful of Dark Friends and Garns led to Passion, they teach the B'yogi their collective knowledge in the creation of steel. But something is wrong, no, just different the H'yomi say, for within the created steel dance intricate patterns. Perhaps it is something within the iron ore, or perhaps it is something in the very nature of Simhyn, nevertheless the pattern does not hinder the metal at all, and is far more beautiful than any steel tool that has found it's way into the nation thus far!

>>4167733
>Tidal
(>>4165437) Not ten days after the cessation of trade is announced, and the Tidal arrive in the ports of Andreth laden with Gylden barley, Jaakalian saltfish, various sea-vegetables, and all other many of foodstuffs to fill the bellies of Men. At top silver, of course.
The various industries within the Tidal Empire shift gears, away from producing only what they need as needed, into a true market economy. Weapons, farming equipment, trusses, all sorts of housewares and the like, of high design and workmanship, flood into the stalls from Andreth to Xycthos.
On the outskirts of Bothrio, hundreds if not thousands of extinct beasties are dug up from the sands and stone, all in the name of Obadinia!
Designed by their glorious creator to wield the power of the thunderclouds, the Depauns now seek to sap like powers from their enemies, should the need arise. Of course, testing of such an ability would require test subjects. There just so happens to be just such a subject readily available, caught in the act of cannibalising a clutch of hatchlings, an unthinkably wicked thing. He would be perfect. With a clear mind, and conscience, the first test begins. With a shout of praise to Obadinia, his electrical charge is sucked from his being and into the scholar in a single great bolt, knocking the latter clean off her feet and charring he belly scales.

>>4168101
>Cravers
Work continues on the growing monstrosity south of Nu Delta, as does work upon the Nuck'lavee. Overseen by its own caring Priest-Captain, the Nuck'lavee is grafted to the entire generation of shroomlings, after of course they have been enfleshed. It is an amusing sight, as the creature slowly gains control over the hundred or so minds now attached to its gored waist. With only limited control over its own weight, the Nuck'lavee slouches forwards or else limply backwards, dragged by the score of tiny legs beneath it.
The Flesh gobbles up the land it has claimed, right up to the Ashen wall.

>>4168268
>Gyldenthrong
It is a grim task, not only for the inevitability of the locating of corpses, but the surroundings too are less than desirable. These swamps had once been the home of the Worms, to whom too many Gylden and Ashen were lost. Wading through the marsh, sometimes up to their armpits, the Kolov'urlag dredged up whatever lay beneath the muck. Bronze weapons, shields, helms, as well as the bones of those who wielded them are found in the eastern reaches, a mournful sight indeed. Then west, signs of stone towers, rubble, the gangly half-preserved bodies of Elves. So the Ashen did as they said they had, without thought for who reside within these toppled kosts. This was what was to be found there, and with their first duties done, the guard took up their posts along the rivers.
It is, so the teachings go, that the work in making and belief in wielding that grants the trinkets of protection their power. With prayer to Æblemor and strong faith in Her love, no ill magics may affect the wearers of such. Of course, a silver amulet will not protect its master from physical ills like a fist in the eye, but with trust in Her holy protection, it will destroy any unwarranted curse against him. Of course, Æblemor is a Mothering Goddess, and She does not grant the power to harm another. In the whispers of the bitter south winds however, Snehvid promises just such power.

>>4168550
>Meluzina
(>>4165959) With grace the balloon slowly lifts into the sky, amazing the onlookers gathered 'round. Tarn working in Old Quagspire drop their tools to watch the magnificent sight! Higher and higher she lifts, drifting gently over the plains and hills, climbing higher still. As the balloon approaches the grey rock of the Ashen mountains, there is a change in the winds. She whips violently north, caught in an unseen draft, pulled high into the clouds where it cannot be seen.
(>>4165437 >>4168101) Into the peaceful if uneasy co-existence which has developed in Vadna, the Gods send down a terrible reminder of the limits of mere mortals. An enormous cloth sheet, covered over with frost, along with a woven fibre basket containing some steel tubes, and most gruesomely, the frozen body of a young Meluz fall from the sky!
The Mill stirs slowly, methodically, to life.

>>4168695
>Tarn
The precious and expensive rubber is doled out amongst the gasworks still operational, doubling the gas they manage to extract! Of course, twice very little, is still only a little.
(>>4168268) The massive Tarnic haulers tower over everything else at the dockworks, even many of the building in Gyldholm itself. Lumber from across the east is diverted towards the project, rivalling the building of cities.

DIPLO
>>4168135
The Ashen lower their weapons, they had been getting low on their hoarded supply, and the thought of facing sobriety was about as welcome a one eating their own beards. The fiery mountain was a place for fanatics, not the practical, even mechanical minded tribe of Dwarves that blocks the Gyldens path. But to join them in this quest of theirs? It too is unconscionable, to head back down the tunnel? To the ruins of the capital? These Lowland Dwarves must be mad! There's nothing there but death! Would they not take them on as miners? Or lumberdwarves perhaps? Hrumar here, the one with the vomit on his tunic, he's a fantastic cook.

END OF SCENE SIX.

>>4168721
1&2. A nigh unanimous decision from the Daiimad is passed. The othinians have committed High Treason, the Vossiks have cut water flow to Senday. There is no other option. Their actions have violated the terms of the pact signed. The following nations are alerted to the intentions of the Daiimad, and are made aware of the actions perpetrated by Elves, how the hand of Free Humanity is forced by petty attempts at revenge: In exchange for support in this war, be that material or militarily, all would receive a spot at the table for claims on Vossik lands.
>>4167733
>>4166672
>>4165502
>>4168695
>>4168101
In the border forts and numerous outposts, there is a changing of the Guard, as Clan militaries take over from the FHRDF, who's orders are delivered. The military marches on the Knife Eared fucks who dared to attempt to force the Republic to bow. To the Nomach, there would be quarter, to the Vossiks, no town left unrazed. No population left alive. This is how the FHR wages war.

In the streets of the cities, Militia forces round up Othinians, and they are executed by firing squad, by Fire, by blade and by spearpoint. There is no mercy for traitors to Humanity.

>>4165437
>Diplo: FHR
Timidly approaching, we ask if we could retrieve our balloon from the territory of the white tarns. We also ask if its pilot is okay, and if there were any damages that the balloon caused with its descent. It seems we're content with paying them, if need be.

>>4168791
The Free Human Republic
Commander Vay allows this. The body is theirs, as is the......air.....ship.........The Daiimad would want to hear about this.

>>4168783
The Tarns will provide whatever assistance they can. It’s unfortunate that it has come to this, but such circumstances leave us little choice. The Tarnish nation girds itself for war.

>>4168795
>Diplo: FHR
Later that same day, we come by and ask the local group of "white tarns" if they know why all the dwarves in this area have abandoned their posts. Surely, if they're in former dwarven territory, then they must know something. Then again, we're in a similar situation with our dwarven occupancy.

>>4168721

Rituals are not like science. They don't work due to fundamental laws like why a ship floats, or a arrow is aerodynamic. They aren't a science, for science has those fundamental laws an underlying reason for it to work caused by the nature of the world. No, in layman terms, they work simply because they are rituals, nothing more, nothing less. For with faith and belief put into a arbitrary set of actions, a process done hundreds of times over with delicate care in the belief that it will achieve some sort of end, that is what gives it power, and the more it is done, the more powerful it becomes. Simply put, it is the belief that meeting this criteria will do something that gives it power, and actions which once were meaningless find meaning, becoming meaningful through belief. And the best example of this in practice is blessed steel...Rhisiart will likely be busy working with these theories for some time, yet with proof that it can be done, he was certainly going to get that which he required to continue his work... Even if it will take some time...

Meanwhile, while the political situation made Blodwyn desire to head to the Free Human Republic and once more lend her services as a military attaché, there was a more pressing matter at hand now. Something was south of Lunedannedd. And, with about forty of the Meistri Rhyfel, a sizable chunk of the entire Meistri Rhyfel forces Llychlyn had, Blodwyn would head into the southern forest, her soldiers and herself equipped in blessed steel and ready for anything. They'd initially head to the hole in the ice, yet it was likely that they'd find that the cursed place of old was not the source of their problems...Regardless, the best equipped, best led, and best soldiers should be able to investigate and deal with this issue at hand. Even if it was likely to get somewhat tiring not taking off their Armour and equipment after heading out.

As this went on however, a bit of a cultural Renaissance seemed to start. With all the trade and the new abundance of resources, many more have extra time to spend on other leisurely activities, and a number of artists, sculptures, and similar start to arise in much greater number than before. Heavily encouraged by Eheubryd, a number of Teulu clans pop up who specifically deal with engravings, sculpting, or art. Additionally, a new kind of art would become popular and arise in this renaissance. Gwasg bren, where an artiest carves a large panel of wood, the un carved area's being coated in ink and the panel pressed against a canvas. The ink used can be all black, or utilize every colored ink Llychlyn has available.

Elsewhere, a very curios and young Clan Wynn member takes a old and odd spear with her, allowed to keep it...Oddly in quite good condition.

>Action One. Send in Blodwyn and the best of the best, the Meistri Rhyfel to investigate and deal with any issues, unless of course, it is inside that cursed place.

>Action Two. The start of the Llychlyn Dadeni

>>4168783
Blodwyn would swiftly send a letter stating that she has informed Clan Nist and their growing merchant fleets that they should head to Republic ports to take commissions for blessed steel weapons. Additionally, as was already done, plenty of food will arrive shortly. They would also write that she herself would arrive to assist in the strategic and tactical level as soon as a disturbance was dealt with that she and some of Llychlyn's finest plan on dealing with due to its origin in Llychlyn itself and concerns over where it originates from...

Little did Blodwyn know she probably was going to be missing the worst parts of the FHR's actions. At least, worst actions done to other humans anyway...

>>4167733
In the coming months an emissary arrives not by ship, buy by great winged beast. The rider is borne to the Tidal Isles on the back of a Gryphon, and he comes with a message and an Republican seal. He has the authority to make deals between the Vossaya and the Tidal King, should the Tidal lordship be willing to meet. To smooth things over a chest of silver and gold coins is given as a gift. The man introduces himself as Kosterman Kaelerran of Pokos, and he is a diplomat as well as a man of means.

>>4168268
Perhaps while >>4168585 is being spoken of a new development arises that forces Charles to pause and change tracks. The issue of the wetlands outside of where the settlement stood now would be dropped. Instead, with war declared by the FHR against the Vossik Republic a need for food and arms was more pressing than land. Instead, Charles offers to drop all dues owed in exchange for an equal amount of food and arms for. It is hoped that further trade deals could be negotiated to secure more of the Gylden's food surpluses for their own stores, as it is expected that many farmers would be away for an extended period and thus unable to continue to sell the traditional excess at grain markets elsewhere.

>>4168101
>>4166725
>Diplo: Gylden, Tidal, Meluzia, Karnis

The Craver delegation are happy that peace may be brokered within their life time. They happily sign the first 3 doctrines, branding the seal of the Lord of Flesh with a carcoal covered bone stamp. However they refuse to place their sigil on the 4th doctrine, finding it un-palatable in it's current wording, but stating that a trade agreement that creates some restrictions may be on the table later. But it should not be tied to this document- which is sculpted for the preservation of peace.>>4167733

>>4168783
>FHR
The Westernlings are offered their first shipments of freshly mined phosphate from the Karnis miners >>4166672 ( I would keep the Kahro away from the phosphate for safety). In return they ask that when they have a successful harvest, they deliver a portion at the Craver wall. Should the harvest be too far off, and early harvest's be too small; the Cravers can offer some Tuki birds from Karnis as a neighborly gesture for the continued co-habitation.

>>4168733
>Tarn
The Tarn are passed a skin bound message book, detailing a series of codes using the Color-Cloth, using the color changing properties to mean letters, which have a coded meaning. Since the need to plan a co-ordinated attack on the Ashen has passed, the Cravers seek to help the Union and it's allies be prepared to help one another.
>The codes would basically be 3 letter system to share info on (who,what, where), 3 color changes in a min =E (Meaning elves), then 1 color change in 1 min =A ( meaning attack), then 3 more in 1 minute =E (meaning East)

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1. Spear Call
For the second time in a short period of time the horns are sounded and kosts are called to arms. The slow process of turning the Republic massive population from ploughs to swords begins with the first wave being called to active service. The first wave is primarily made up of semi-professional soldiers drawn from the rolls. As with all things, the quality of such men varies wildly. Some kosts have taken their responsibilities more seriously than others. Some have all but neglected their duties, eager to take the extra pay and lessened responsibilities in exchange for half-assing their own training. From the Coerthan Highlands come some of the Republic's more effective levied troops. Experienced in the frequent cattle wars that have plagued the highlands since it was first settled centuries ago these men bring actual fighting experience that is sorely lacked among many of the Republic's fighting troops. Other units levied into action were those mercenary forces that had fought on behalf of the Tarn in the Flesh War. Many of them were likewise, not very effective, but some were more than worth their weight. Called as they were by obligation, their dues were lessened. The Republic would need to actually reach into its substantial pockets to pull forth the funds for such a mobilization, but unlike other powers it had plenty of money in silver and gold acquired through large-scale trade and through its own precious metals and gems production. Money, at least for now, would be no issue. The issue, of course, was speed. The Republic could levy and equip a monumental force given the time to do so, but the process was anything but quick. The first battles would need to be handled by the professional and semi-professional troops of the Republic.

While the Semi-professional levies were primarily a force intended to garrison and defend local communities, the professional army of the Republic was quite different. The Garrison forces were a militia that was almost entirely a medium infantry force. The Republican Army was a professional force made up of career soldiers. In their ranks they included light and heavy cavalry, professional siege engineers, heavy infantry, and light reconnaissance and mountain infantry. Additionally, the Republican Army had a small but effective Chaplain Corps made up of Red and White Robes to handle magical battlefield support and medicinal duties. Among its ranks could be found some of the fabled Champions mounted on mighty Grpyhons. In accordance with earlier directives laid down at the formation of the force it's primary duty was to engage in holding actions, support defensive operations, and provide a seasoned core for the General Army to build around. It was a forced expected to, and intended to lead the levied forces of the Republic into a wider conflict, and that was what it would do. It would buy the time needed for the Republic to turn its farmers and craftsmen to soldiers.

>>4166672
2. [NM] The Oracles
While the gears of the Republic turn its men from farmers to soldiers, the clergy is hard at work scouring the signs. For them, much of the blame for this could be laid at the feet of the Vossaya, slow and distant to even the actions of its own people. The Oracles are consulted, and a plan is put into place to use these gifts to plan military strategy. If they could see the future ahead they could surely see the movements of the enemy, and the plans of their foes.

>>4168721
With the sobering battle against the Emerald King the Dwarves learn that some people just are too brainwashed by the Invuld of the world to convince trough kindness and logic to free themselves from the Invuld's oppressive shackles.

Dwarves and members of other races residing in Dwarven land who do not support the Revolutionary Ideology are rounded up and and put into small wooden carts pulled by Goats. Permitted to only take with them what they can pack in 10 minutes.

Action 1: Expand South into the frozen wastelands

Action 2: Establish Guthlaqtz, = "places of repeated education"

The frozen South is filled with riches, but no man would live there willingly, still it had potential that can be tapped and the Revolution desperately needs. The Guthlaqtz are gonna stand there, where the slaves of Kings are gonna be reeducated into truly free men. There are few guards as escaping the hastily cobbled together wooden huts would only result in a death of frostbite anyway. Once their sentence is served and they are deemd to be Children of the Akkhar, they will be encouraged to stay and settle the land or become guards themselves.

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>>4168731

The whispers of the bitter winds are ignored, Snehvid can howl in vain out in the distant cold. It is Æblemor's mothering ways we had hoped for, to better protect her golden husband's followers.
>Action 1: Dwarven Opera

It is said the greatest Ashen warriors of old had learned to make a weapon of their voice, and many former Ashen warriors now in service to the Gyldenthrong still claim such ability, even claiming to bring this potency into the armored ranks. But when they come to test their ability, to spar with one another verbally with recitation of curse and history and battle-oath, they start finding themselves gathering audience from both kind and the Gyldenfolk as they gather to break their work to watch the clash of battle-song over a mug of Ale, or Twenty. And as time rolls forward, such quickly develops to an institution; the echoing sound-arenas gaining seating and stands and instrumental accompaniment as the initial Ashen crudeness is weathered away, calls and shouts lengthening and improving their quality into songs of many style and genre, competitive and collaborative.

Great opera houses rise within the centers of the greater towns, showing performances such as the legendary 'Søvnigeid Untir'zvamvol' (Søvnig and the Under-toad), the mirthful 'Edaguld Zuveidulz' (Two Brothers, Silver and Gold) and the great tragedy 'Korvogaz'Kezinvulden'.


>Action 2: Zvamgatt Line

The Gylden are satisfied that, for the moment, there is agreement of the nation's northern borders on the Volozvam. But they know that moods and whims can change again, that open land is inviting and and that nothing proclaims permanence like earth and stone and mortar. To that end, they raise a trio of fortresses close to the riverflow on the most solid and defensible areas of ground that they can find to site them on; the solid fortresses of the Zvamgatt Line.

>>4168733
>Diplomacy: Ashen Dwarves low on Alcohol

If they are mechanically minded, the Thane would venture, then perhaps Kendt'Koldrag would be the place for them. Even those who do not pass entrance to the Engineer's academy or jobs in the workshops there might find position as miners or menials. Or if their preferences would turn to lumber, there is space. He even knows a good site. The Ashen outpost of old was torn apart for materials in the building of the nearby brewery, but the site itself remains free. Why not work it again? True, they would need new materials; but then the thing about being a lumberdwarf is that you will soon have fresh-cut timbers to use.

The Capitol, though... that was not where this party was headed, and the Thane explains as such. Those few survivors already met had told such similar tales. Why, there's an Ashen lad from Aeuntirgardun here in the party with such a grim tale of escape it took him the courage of three casks to even think of coming along. No, it is to the Mint that this team is headed. The Gylden have had no reports from there, of good or of ill.

>>4170353
>Diplomacy: Akkhar Dwarves

The Emissary nods. It is a sentiment he can understand, though he does wonder which oppressors the Akkhar plan to strike at to win these freedoms, and what freedoms they might speak of. But the Gylden would be open to resuming trade, if the Akkhar would wish it.

As word spreads, the Akkhar would also receive an official congratulatory letter. The Gylden had always found themselves dubious of the Ashen 'Emerald Kin', and are very pleased to hear the Akkhar have seen through such duplicity that had so long been overlooked by the Invuld. They would also get a particularly glowing parchment from the head of the Gnavkop. Those Emerald monsters had long been the bane of his family, and to hear their wickedness exposed brings much joy and many lifted Grudges. He sends the Akkhar half the stock of his cellars for their distribution in gratitude.


>>4168695
>Diplomacy: Tarn
The Tarnish Greatships are applauded as they rise amidst the docks, Gylden dockworkers and shipwrights helping the Tarnish ships to grow. Such magnificent vessels, hopefully the voyage will show off that magnificence. The Tarn would be offered warding wreaths of apple-root to hang about them, though the Gylden would not insist - these are Tarnish ships, and the Gylden know the Tarn must keep to their own tradition.


>>4169155
>Diplomacy: Cravers (And Karnis,Meluz, Deepaun)
With their allies in the closed war seemingly satisfied (At least, the Gylden have not -yet- heard word of any complaint), a honeyed-wax seal is pressed to the first three doctrines by a stamp of Brass. Let peace be preserved.

>>4169123
>Diplomacy: Vossiks

The Vossiks are thanked for their dropping of demands for the wetlands and their recognition of the river Volozvam as the national boundary, as well as for forgetting that silly fee they had tried to charge the Gylden for moving their own army into Dwarven lands. The Gylden Kolov'urlag are returning the corpses, and with them the restitutive gold, to the elven families concerned. As to copper and foodstuffs and other things the Vossiks might wish to buy? Why, those things are all available upon the Gylden market to purchase. Might Guldfar's gaze shine down upon large sums of gold flowing back into Gylden pockets, though the Vossiks are warned that grain prices have risen of late - the Tarn, the Deepaun; why, it seems everyone is trying to buy up the Gylden surplus, and prices are rising accordingly. It truly is a seller's market right now.

>>4169155
The system is broadly accepted. The tarns provide three more strips of cloth to the cravers, so that all three color changes can be transmitted simultaneously and to ensure a permanent line of communication

Action 1: Rush Production
With news of the Tarnish nation's declaration of war on the Vossiks, the production of the three Great Ships takes on new urgency. The steel ribs that form the skeleton of each is overlaid with overlapping planks of cured wood, then sealed over with strips of leather and collagen. The process is then repeated twice more, creating a triple-wide barrier capable of dealing with even the toughest of blows. To accomodate passengers without compromising the structural integrity of the vessel, steel-and-glass portholes are soldered into the walls of the ship.

Action 2: Complete the Ships
As the shipbuilders scramble to complete the Three Ships, new blueprints filter in from Xycthos. In light of the new hostilities between Tarn and Vossik, the Great Ships are to be refitted for war. Their purpose will be to ferry troops back and forth between Port Senday and Gylden Port. In light of this new responsibility, a few alterations must be made to the exterior of the ship. As the workers build out the deck of each Great Ship, they take care to install greased and braced cutouts along the border of the ship. As construction wraps up on the ships, these cutouts are installed with cutting edge ballistae. The helms of the ship is outfitted with a steel ramming prow, perfect for sundering smaller ships that might seek to block the Ships path. Some of the food stores are converted into storage sections for materials used to repair battle damage. Finally, the inside of the ship is reinforced with bands of iron, improving the ships performance under fire. By the time the three Great Ships are ready for their maiden voyages, they are true warships, more than capable of acquitting themselves in battle. They are christened Dynami, Exousia, and Borous respectively.

>>4168720
B'yogi response is that they don't know yet, but faith is created by beings who believe. Perhaps getting rid of those who have faith in Therkunnaz will banish him?
>>4168721
1. With new metal created, we will look at Feast. It has served a fortress for many years, but it is time to rebuild it. We will convert Feast into a city.
2. The matters of faith is intriguing. It seems gods of this realm exist because of the beings who believe in them. Seems like a flaw in entities to rely on finicky mortals. Hmm, is there a way to expel such weak gods? We will research this.

>>4168135
These C'der the Short Ones bring is a genius drink! Fruits turn into alcoholic beverages?! The Hard Shell Ones' dew mix with it will create a most potent drink!. They are granted complete permission to plant apple seeds to create a grove. They are given a vacant house to live in while they're here. And a twenty percent off coupon for all establishments in Jubilation. Unfortunately, the House of Ill Repute ( H'yomi call it a whore house such a strange name for a place where flesh sellers live.) will refuse coupons. Prices can be negotiated. Please follow all laws of our land. The Watchers will keep you and others safe...

>>4169155
The tidal empire agrees to the treaty, however much a fruitless victory it was for them, even if only in their eyes.

>>4171544
They plan to strike Invuld.

The Akkhar Dwarves are kinda confused, but happy to have done something to help their friend.

>>4168721
Actions:
-Requesting aid from the Cravers in help to furthering their studies, the Karnis send the Shard to their capable monks to extract what answers they can from it. At the same time, they request some led to be delivered to the forges of the Labyrinth to create a shield casing to build around the core in order to ease access and allow the scholars to get closer with more specialized equipment.

-They may be grim in both appearance and nature, but the Az'Karo are welcomed none the less. With the mountains finally cleared, the ants once more expand into the mountains. Forces are sent to seize the mountain which holds the underground fortress, while the another makes their way to city ruins.

>>4168783

>Diplo: FHR
The Matriarch has heard the plight of the west, and after careful consideration she has determined that their situation is largely is due to their own actions. However, the heart of the swarm goes out to to the citizens of port Senday, for seeing innocent people suffer leaves a bad taste in the mouths of the ants. Though they may not be able to force the hand of the Vossiks to open the rivers as its source lies within their borders, granting them ownership of it, the Matriarch sends a proposal to the leaders of the Republic.
"Esteemed men of the west, after review we have concluded not to take action against the Vossiks, but we have no desire to leave any of our friends high and dry. We offer you the following:
In asking you for sparing the Elezen your wrath, we are willing to make up for the void in trade the severing of relations between your nations has left the FHR. We will offer you trade of food and water.
Along with this, should you grant this as a favor to the Swarm, we are willing to return such an act of good faith by sending our Re'Karo to scout the depths of your lands for fresh water sources. The Karnis will unearth any we find, and assist you in digging a new river to flow so that your fields will flourish and your thirst quenched."

>>4168731
>1: find a way to make balloon flight safer
As the loss of our brave pilot is crippling, and the mistakes of his past are burned into our minds, we can't help but feel like we've done something wrong. Surely, no innovation is made without loss of some sort. As such, our pilot's devotion to his craft will not be lost in vain. From now forward, our balloons will be equipped with greater weights, and pilots, before flying, will have to be issued a license from the government. Those who dive head-first into the wild blue are brave, but they must know what they're doing before they find themselves in castor's welcoming arms. How much thrust is too much thrust? How much weight is too much? What should I do if my balloon is out of control? Since I can't steer, what should I do to make sure my balloon stays on course? All this knowledge must be proven in order for one to receive a license.

>2: more hot air balloon safety measures
As we saw our fellow man fall from the sky, we noticed something about the way his balloon acted against the air. his descent was slowed by the fabric, but he had already perished. Such a sight gave our researchers a chill, but also an idea. what if we had a device that would descend slowly, but never ascend? What if our pilots could use this device in an event of peril?
Using Asteri as a proper testing ground, our researchers tried out various "chutes", attached under the arms of a meluz-crafted mannequin as it dropped from the tower's balcony.
One researcher showed off a certain design, where he had made a sort of air-foil, which had multiple ropes attached to its ends. two, one on each side, had handles. After seeing that it allowed for the mannequin to fall safely, he took the plunge himself, using his design.

>>4168723
1. Shard experimentation with Karnis at Hel'grind.

2. Grist'lung finalization/Nucklavee help.

>>4172738
1
>The shard of the Death Core is carried to the womb-labs of Hel'Grind, with slime being collected to dissolve the ice to manipulate and understand it.

2.
>The Great Lungs of the oversized Gastric Caster are drawn and filled with air, and the first salvo is directed north towards the sea in it's testing salvo, with the Nuck'lavee and its attendants serving as the firing crew. The Creation's new validity lends itself to it's newfound skill in fleshcraft, while lacking some power of older priest, the flayed man has an inbuilt creativity that aids with the construction. Perhaps it's years of watching the Cravers has lended to it's beginner's savant-ness .

>Diplo
>Gylden
The crazed golden dwarf is deliver to the Gylden guards of the Snakeport, with the request to send no more unannounced guests through the Gyre. "You don't see us swimming in your seas. Please do the same."

>>4171544
The apple-root wreaths would be accepted gratefully and hung upon the bowsprit of each ship. Sailors are a superstitious lot, and and every little measure of protection is a good thing.

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SCENE SEVEN

(TO THE FHR & THE VOSS, WAR POST WILL BE WITH WEDNESDAY UPDATE)

>>4168783
>FHR
It is paranoia, and the long suspected Othinian ties to the Elves that leads to such a rash decision. The Othin-Sah is removed from the council, awaiting perhaps his execution. Many innocent Othinians are lynched in Port Senday, the few intermarried couples torn from each others arms, along with a handful of chamberlads, though of course the FHR do not know their affiliation. The border forts are manned by Clan militaries, as the soldiers of the FHRDF are ordered against the east. (>>4169157) The easiest target is of course the farmers and lumberelves the Andrethi side of the northern border river, who are slain like vermin, without mercy. Not only the men with spear in hand, but the women and children too are cut down. It is an unprecedented massacre against innocents, though to the FHR an 'Innocent Elezen' is an oxymoron. The fields are burnt, the kosts torn down, some with Elves still inside. They are hunted north and east until they are trapped by either river or mountain, and killed. The next targets would be Gilden Voss, home of the bankers and gold merchants of the Elezen, and of course that heretical temple to the sun which must be razed to rubble.

>>4168993
>Llychlyn
There is a heavy sigh of relief as the hole in the ice lays quiet still. As the guard rests their aching feet they are made aware of the location of the dreadful laughter. Between the pines come flashes of orange light, the death screams of a fox, and more of that awful cackling. They march on the sound, and are met with the sight of half a dozen or so ragged, Gylden? No, a horrid mangling of the Dwarvern form, skin tinged green, beards ragged, teeth sharp, and talons gored. They are tearing gobs of flesh from the dying animal and stuffing them into their maws. A holy blade finds its way into one of the things skulls, which bursts into a gout of yellow flame leaving a little pile of ash. The ensuing battle is fast, faster than one would have thought, as the last Goblins are cut down, but so too are an equal number of the Children of Fanw. They find in their armour piercing holes where the power of the Blessèd Steel had been overpowered by the terrible evil of those, things. The rest of the guard are scratched and bloodied, finding wounds in illogical places, which already show signs of infection! Thank Fanw they are done away with entirely. Seven little piles of ash. Seven evil little piles of evil ash.
Though the world holds many woes and horrors, is it not true that they are far outweighed by the beauty Fanw bestows upon it? And in beauty there is peace for the soul, comfort for the grieved, and calm for the restless mind.

>>4169157
>Vossik
From the trade roads, lookouts and even scouts in Dravana the call is raised; The Men are come for war. Nothing can be done for those helpless in the fields, like a bushfire the barbarians sweep across them leaving none alive. The cry echoes through the mountains, raise spear in defence of your countryelves and in the name of the Lightbringer destroy the wicked dogs of Andreth! It is a monumental task, raising the army from their dormancy amongst the people, and only He above knows how much more destruction the FHR will be able to wreak in the meantime. The kosts are guarded from within and without, word sent by fleetfoot and gryphon. Dread rears her head as it dawns that news will not reach Pokos or Oldek, nor the Cathedral of the New Sun, before the armies of Men do! There may be a handful of red robes and triple that many white robes at the temple, but the multitude will be the laity gathered in worship. Curse the Andrethi swine! Curse them to Baluur below!
[NM] The Oracles each begin their ritual, supping the sacred mixture. In one voice they speak: LOST ARE THOSE WITHOUT THE SIGOD WALLS OF STONE. LOST ARE THOSE WITH SPEAR BUT WITHOUT FAITH. CUT FROM THE BODY THE FLESH WHICH IS ALREADY DEAD. AND CRUSH THE REED THAT DRAWS THE WATER UP IT.

>>4170353
>Akkhar Dwarves
Dwarves huddled into their beards march south into the snow, surely there are riches beneath the ice! The wind whips freezing air around them as their trudge on. Suddenly, ahead of them, houses of stone rise from the tundra. They are crude dwellings of flat, stacked rocks, circled around a plinth of black stone, in the centre of which lies a pile of black rubble. What by Therkuunaz's beard is this?! Half the group is left to puzzle over the strange settlement as others continue into the cold. It is only an hour or two's journey until they are met with yet more houses! This time however, they are inhabited, by giantesses. (>>4168993) And now what better place than these wastes to send those in need of re-education?

>>4171411
>Gyldenthrong
"From tragedy springs forth beauty", as closes one of the lesser operettas, but there is truth in it. The arts flourish as the brothers of silver and gold unite in one land.
In the west the Zvamgatt Line plants the border heavily with the tangled roots of militia and guards, wearing tracks into the muddy land from frequent patrol.

>>4171673
>Tarn
With war declared, it seems the trade ships will have to serve as vessels of war instead. Talks of trade for Vossik grain is ended, dashing the promising careers of many a young merchant. Food shortages are growing more common throughout the kingdom, with subsistence farming barely keeping the population from starving. Now with such a sudden declaration of hostilities, it sparks in the minds of the peasantry that they cannot rely on imports alone; what if the Gylden breadbasket were to be shut off to them? Or the Tidal trade network halted? Unrest bubbles under the surface.

>>4171679
>B'yogi
Feast had served its purpose in the protection of the Bone Mother from the Worms that would do Her harm, and so it is it should be demilitarised. Of course, it is a good vantage to watch the ships sailing through Simhyn waters, and so many of its towering lookouts will remain, but now it will be a home and not just a placement.
Gods exist like words, some are carved in stone forever, like M'ed, and others are drawn in sand, like... well the B'yogi would never know, the tide has already washed them away. Here the Dark Friends of the H'yomi have knowledge, for when they lived in Nomach each town & city had a God of their own, a fascinating concept. Now that they are occupied by the Elezen, the city Gods are done away with, and are no more worshipped. Being outside the realm of the Divine, neither B'yogi nor H'yomi can say if the Gods are truly dead, but they are no longer venerated and too no longer bestow their blessings.

>>4172684
>Karnis
The Cravers of course come to the aid of their ally and friend. At great expense they deliver an amount of lead traded with the Tarn in exchange for replacements, it's said they got it from the Dragons, but what is a little poisonous metal between age long enemies? In the forges of Labyrinth, the lead is worked into two interlocking shields large enough to comfortably enclose the entire core, and hopefully trap within them the poisonous air it generates. Meanwhile the shard of the core is transported to the womb-labs of Hel'Grind. Away from the solid mass, it has slowly begun to melt, and in the Slime is dissolved completely. For their part however the Slime begin to experience strange behaviour, avoiding Tuki birds cast into them, and greedily absorbing as much water as is given them until they are almost completely neutralised by it. There are cases of dizziness and queasiness all along the track of the shard's travel in the following days.
The Ants makes themselves at home in the ruins of the Oppressor, finding wherever they search yet more bodies, but with them the trappings of the fallen empire; metals, weapons, tools, all manner of equipment for the maintenance of a beard. Perhaps not everything will be that useful to the Karnis. Exploring the long but cramped thoroughfares they come across a downward slope terminating in a set of enormous copper doors. With some effort they are pushed open, flooding the tunnel with Guldfar's light, for they open into the forests of the Gylden! (>>4171411)

>>4172734
>Meluzina
The tests are difficult, the knowledge for them being expansive, including questions too on the materials needed in the construction. All this to drill into the wannabe pilots that these vehicles were dangerous, expensive, and marvellous.
It is a success! The fabric required had been specially worked over quite some time to be as light and broad as possible, but still able to catch the wind. His secret was a thin layer of fat spread across the canvas, filling the pores and preventing from air escaping through it. It is quite a jolt when the 'chute opens, enough so that he finds he has dislocated his shoulder even.

>>4172738
>Cravers
(see first Karnis action update)
The horrid Grist'lung of Nu Delta is complete, all that is left is to fill its vats with Slime.
In the forests which held the cave where the wild beast once howled, there comes now again terrible cackles.

DIPLO
>>4171411
The Ashen shuffle out of their gloomy ruins of the once proud forge city, of which only shadows remain. The leader of the pack would speak with the Thane, he had been a tunnel guard, he knew the layout of the underworld like the weft of his beard. The Mint is safe, it had been sealed off by the Invuld to protect it shortly before the civil war had begun. The only way to it now was down the thoroughfare from the capital, what looks like a wall at the end of the tunnel is just lime plaster, behind it lies the prize. With that he scurries to join his companions into Gyldenthrong.
Many of the said Ashen taken up positions as lumberdwarves at the old Ashen Outpost. As for Hrumar, he travels to Kezvogaz'unteg and opens up a little cart selling tula'latt, little candies made of winterberries.
(also the Dwarf delivered to you by the Cravers is the corpse of the one who dived into the Gyre, in case that had been forgotten)

END OF SCENE SEVEN.

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>>4172923
Scorched. Earth. All that cannot be salvaged, looted or claimed from Vossik lands and sent back to aid those on the homefront is burned. Food, water, metals, all are sent back to Senday, where the populace needs it most. The Daiimad, in spite of traitorous words, does care about them. They, as are all the FHR, are Human.

On the campaign, the fate of those inhuman, decadent creatures who would see our kind destroyed and subjugated is a quick one. Either they face the block for quick decapitation, the line for execution via Shock rifle, or in extreme cases, the surviving inhabitants of a town are forced to dig, then are doused in Flamesprayer fuel and set alight. This is no war of conquest, nor one of subjugation. It is a war of annihilation, for if not their kind, then our people will suffer. We cannot ever allow such to happen.

With food shipments from our allies abroad arriving to port, those in Senday have at very least that worry lifted, though with water now subject to rationing, word to the damward front is sent with a....certain idea for the Varken Combat Engineers there.

Actions:
1. The FHRDF in the southern front, on their way to the long occupied and Vossik controlled Nomach cities come across a massive cathedral to the Heathen sun god of the elves. This cannot be allowed to stand. Vossiks inside are given no quarter, while the Nomach are allowed to leave in peace. However, should they choose to fight, those that do will be put down. The Varken engineers of the southern front are then tasked with it's demolition as the rest of the army marches forth.

2. In the area around the dam, small canals are dug to start bringing, in comparison, small trickles of water back into the river. To detonate the damn all at once would spell disaster for Senday, and the canals will begin to siphon water out that has been building for quite some time. The dam will come down eventually, but not yet. We won't endanger our own just to get quick results. Such is not the way of the FHRDF.

>>4173008
The news of the initial success of our campaign against the hated Vossiks spreads like wildfire across the FHR. The night is filled with song and celebration, for the efforts of the republic were not in vain in it's technological development. Even too in Senday where there has been rough times, as the initial caravans of looted foodstuffs and tanks of water from across the borders come back, there are cheers from the people. Many flock to, with the permission of Clan-Sah, join either the FHRDF, or their clan's military to help with the war effort, though of course most would be relegated to logistical duties, medical if they show talent, or other auxiliary roles.

Meanwhile, command staff debate their next movements. Where to send major offensives next, what areas should bunker down and fortify, to let Vossik waves come to them and wear themselves down upon fortifications. The initial pushes were only planned for so long, and after they were done, slower, more methodical advances would be preferred as supply lines are secured and lines are established. They could not expect the Vossiks to just keel over and die, no, there would be major engagements. As such, the Kahad-Sajaak is asked to speak with Vaygr himself, and thus the Kahad brings along the current Vay-Sah, a blood descendant from the God himself in to serve to stabilize the message. {Rumor}

>>4171704
>Diplomacy: B'yogi
The Dwarven visitors nod, they will of course follow the laws of the B'yogi land...what are those laws? Do they have them written? They could make assumption, but they know that Gylden and B'yogi are not alike. They follow the directions of their hosts to the vacant dwelling to establish themselves for the duration. This is followed by the imbuing of cider to bless the house, and after scattering the appleseed where the B'yogi allow it, they then go off to examine the various establishments.

>>4172461
> Diplomacy: Akkhar
The Invuld? The Dwarves are confused by this. With the Invuld fallen - twice, now, from what the Gylden hear - how do they plan on striking the Invuld again if there is no Invuld proclaimed?

>>4172850
>Diplomacy: Cravers.
The Gylden are baffled. How did this Dwarf even get here? He... was lost, many months ago, on the other side of the continent. How did the cravers find him? Their knowledge of the Gyre is even more perplexing. To the Gylden, they know of the Gyre simply as a funnel of swirling waters that draws in those who pass too close. And possibly a blessing or a tainted curse, dependent on who is asked. What do the lords of flesh know of this, they ask? For it seems they know more then the Gylden do.

>>4172684
>Diplomacy: Karnis
The Emergence of the Karnis ants through the doors from the fallen kingdom is perhaps less of a shock then it might have been, but it is still unsettling to some, especially those who lost a relative in the northern war. Nonetheless, there is a treaty now so it is hoped they come with peaceful intent; and so a Gylden cider is sought and offered for these ants to sup from, that they might be welcomed here as guests. "The War is over, we have peace. Let us try to remember this." The Gylden would state, and then again in Vossik and Tarnish if the Ants do not know enough Gyldentongue to understand. "What brings you far south to the lands of the Gyldenthrong?"

>>4172738
>Diplo Cravers
The Tarns have heard of a magical substance produced in the north of the old Ashen Kingdom, a white stone which brings fertility to the land it is buried in. Knowing that much of the northern part of the empire is now in the hands of the Cravers, the Tarns sent a merchant expedition to their nation to explore the prospect of acquiring some of this white rock
>tl;dr can we has phosphate?

>Action 1: Farming reform
The Council, thankfully, has come to much the same conclusion their citizens have. For too long, the Tarns have depended on their trade networks to provide them with even the most basic of necessities. This cannot continue. The Council of Cities sends emissaries to the FHR(>>4168783) and the Golden Dwarves(>>4171544) in order to meet with expert and perhaps(if granted permission) to observe how their farmers ply their trade. The information they bring back, along with the magic Craver rocks, will no doubt make great progress in bringing Tarnish agriculture up to par.

>Action 2: Navy
The Tarns, having enjoyed relatively peaceful seas for much of their existence, have had little reason to invest in their navy. However, with the new Vossik threat on the horizon, the Tarns must find some way of converting their civilian shipbuilding prowess into naval might. Reinforcing hulls, converting bowsprits into ramming prows, installing ballistas on deck--every trick in the book is used to convert Tarnish merchant ships into true ships of war. A point of conflict arises during the planning of this refitting process: should the ships be designed to beseige cities and other targets at range, or should they cater more towards ship-to-ship combat? The question is taken to the new Augursoul.(See NM)

[R][NM]:The search begins for a new Augursoul. Each of the promising candidates is given the following question: How powerful is the Vossik navy? The children give varying answers, but only a single child shows the telltales attributes of one with true future-sight. Before the eyes of the examiner, his rosy skin takes on the color of ash, his face ages and sallows, his hands become gnarled and bony. He covers his face with his hands, even the dim sunlight of the chamber too much for his over-sensitized eye and ears. As his attendants rush to the child, draping him in heavy blankets to soothe his nerves and shield his senses, the man overseeing the search turns away. The heavy task is done; now all that remains is to report back the Council.

>>4173008
The Three Great Ships of the Tarn set out for Port Senday, carrying a full cargo hold of soldiers and supplies. There, the soldiers will take up whatever posture the FHR require of them. They can help with peacekeeeping within the port itself, assist with securing logistical lines, or even march out on campaign with the rest of the FHRDF. The Ships themselves depart back to the Tarnlands, but further supplies are delivered by Tarnish merchant ship.

>>4173141
The Tarnish are welcomed, and told the areas of most vital importance so far are securing supply lines. If they were cut, then the invasion would already be forced prematurely into it's second stage. That could not be.

>>4173067
>Diplomacy: Tarn
The Gylden nod, of course the Tarn may come to learn from and observe Gylden farming techniques.
(They might also come to realize when they do that this Ashenbeard 'magical substance' is actually one they have had full trade access to for many years through the Gylden markets)


>>4172923
>Action 1: Journey for the Mint: Part 3

The news from the Ashen survivors is readily welcomed, and the journey continues along the shortcut routes and deep passages the retrieval team is directed to. For the first time, there is a real hope that they might recover this ancient artifact for the surviving Dwarven peoples.


>Action 2: Southern Arsenal

For many years now, the Gyldholm docks have been operating at full capacity. The Gylden build boats there, the Deepaun build boats there, the Tarnish build boats there; perhaps someday the Meluz and Cewri will do so too. But all this competition is raising the price of a Gyldholm-built boat. To that end, it is decided to establish a new purpose-built naval shipyard in the south; a Daitaz'gatjag based heavily upon the harbor plans for Otedkl'latgja but with singular purpose; closer to the southern lumber-forests, the skilled woodcrafters of Æblekag and the artillerists of Torz'vogaz. Using proven and trusted designs comprised of easy-assembly parts after the Tarnish shipbuilding fashion, these ships will help fill both the seas and the ranks of the Gylden fleet.

>>4173008
The first true engagement between Vossik and Andrethi forces would of course come in the Battle of the Dam. The dam served also as a network of aqueducts that funneled water down into the farms and kosts, including the city of Gilden. For the Humans, they would find that the Republic had prepared for them with its own professional force. It was a force that could hold the slopes in a solid wall of shields, swords, and spears. Where the Humans could approach the dam they would be met with a determined force of defenders. The standard array of soldiers from their region are a combination of Hacmosi Crossbowmen, Republican infantry, and professional light and heavy cavalry. Like with all professional army units, they have their own chaplains attached. Powerful Scarlet and White mages serving as support units. The Scarlets in particular have nasty surprises for the fire-laden Andrethi shock troops. For the purpose of the dam's defense, the majority of forces lie on the slopes to defend against an approach, with clear lanes of fire for crossbow units entrenched behind their tall tower shields and fast-moving light infantry armed with sword, spears, and a clutch of javelins to protect the units in the event the Andrethi attempt a charge.
Elsewhere, the standard formation of a tight shield wall formation is tasked to hold the slopes against the approaching human infantry. The Republicans would be forced to march up steep wooded slopes to attack and would be hit with a wave of well-aimed javelins as they closed into range.

Before the line of shields was a smaller screen of skirmishing light infantry. Armed mostly with javelins, swords, and wide round shields, these soldiers exist mostly to harry enemy forces with their javelins and retreat when approached in force to the safety of the main line. This screen links cleanly with the light infantry reverse force defending the crossbowmen on the fire lanes, and would be quickly deployed to pursue broken Andrethi forces after the first clash had been joined, or used as a flanking force once the Humans had committed their ranks to the battle.

The cavalry remained solidly on the flanks. In a battle like this, the cavalry that counted the most were the light cavalry forces that could provide reconnaissance and communications. The heavy cavalry and much of the light cavalry would be left as reverse units and for defending the flanks of the force on the hill. any attempt by Andrethi infantry to approach the hill from the flanks would be contested by both the light infantry screening force as well as a concentrated series of cavalry charges by the defending cavalry that would easily cut off and shatter any units without truly overwhelming amounts of support that would deplete the forces on the main line.

>>4173195
No war diplo yet

>>4172923

In the cold of what has been refereed to as "Gwlad y stormydd wedi'u rhewi" or the land of frozen storms, more of Clan Wynn heads out, north, east, and west. And to the west they find ruins, and what looked to be...Gylden? No, there were differences...Regardless, they'd avoid them, and instead focus on heading north and east, finding sea at some point, and setting up a number of outposts along the way, outposts to resupply travelers and warm up utilizing coal from Llychlyn. The land here was harsh and particularly cold, and the journeys the Children of Fanw took out into these wastes would likely be the death of any other, but if there was one lesser known thing the Children were good at, it was dealing with the cold.

Meanwhile the Llychlyn Dadeni continues to have an effect on Llychlyn's culture. However, in a way that was going to happen eventually anyway. Tafarndai have existed in Llychlyn for some time, however now they have essentially exploded, with a Tafarn being able to be found in every single town in Llychlyn, big or small. Commonly, they'd sell alcoholic drinks and normal food, the average establishment only selling local brews, yet larger ones in Allfshys, Lunedannedd, and Porthladdgweddillion sell plenty of foreign alcohol as well. They'd be a place for friends from other clans to meet and relax together, along with a place to enjoy feasts and celebrate for Ciwed clans who usually didn't have large houses that could properly sustain such festivities, and in smaller villages, they'd become something of a place for the community to gather. Additionally, they'd commonly have a small archery range in the back, usually with a member of the clan who owned the establishment at said range making sure anyone who had too much to drink doesn't accidentally hurt themselves or others. Over time, a few games specifically done in Tafarndai would pop up, but over all they become an important part of society for small villages and Ciwed clans.

>Action One. Expand north and east of Castellpwyntrhew.

>Action Two. The the Llychlyn Dadeni continues to add to Llychlyn's culture...

>>4173008

Blodwyn after the fight against those...creatures...would be somewhat wounded, but for the most part she'd be fine. After a minor investigation of the place, she'd have the Meistri Rhyfel carry the bodies of the fallen. These creatures were faster than expected...Regardless, she'd be careful to rest for a time, and would send a letter explaining her delay and what had happened to the FHR. After her wounds were recovered enough, and any illness from infection overcome, she'd get aboard one of the transport ships with her guards and arrive at the FHR, ready to provide tactical advice and assistance... She finally would be able to see the war that would help her tactical skills, and how to apply the knowledge gained to her own forces, along with obviously help her allies win this war swiftly.

>>4172928
1. Next is Insight we will turn our gaze at. Our center of research and knowledge must be updated! Including our secret underground lab
2. Our new metal is a beautiful creation. A testament to our research and how much we have learn in this realm. But we are feeling a bit homesick so we turn to more frivolous things. We will research ships to become larger and stronger. To hold many B'yogi! To go to the empty sea and relax...
>>4173062
The Laws of Simhyn
1. Respect the Three for they are our Creators and enlighteners
2. No stealing especially of information (spying is allowed since if you get caught that's a bigger disgrace)
3. No murder (though B'yogi just think you're just waking up from a dream but H'yomi says otherwise)
4. H'yomi citizens have different local laws in Jubilation; same as above but no loitering, no public drunkenness, no littering, no trespassing on private property, nudity is allowed but not near schools, businesses have a right to refuse customers, and there are no work taxes. All other taxes are negotiable.

>>4173160
Ach! Such a clear oversight! The academics shake their heads sadly, if only this sort of investigation hand happened many a tyrn who, perhaps the Tarns could have already been self-sufficient. Still, clearly there is much to be learned from the Golden Dwarves. As the two groups watch over farmers working their fields, the Tarns ask their Gylden counterparts about the Dwarven planting cycle.

>>4173147
The Tarns nod and set to the task, dividing into smaller groups of ten to twelve and guarding the FHR supply lines. Any Vossik attempt at encirclement will find its path barred by Tarnish steel.

>>4168729
Such a good use of a terrible cretin... he shall only be remembered in the deeper portions of the archives as he was evil nonetheless. Hopefully this works just as well on the less electrically gifted races and that we will never have to do this again.
Action 1:
Convert 3 of our warships into trade ships as we need to be sure to keep up with the expanding markets we have access to. The others shall have their weapons updated and refitted so that they are not rendered obsolete by their age.
Action 2:
Take good care to learn the language of the Llychlyn as knowing the tongues of our partners in the world stage is paramount to being successful into the future.