>>5384661
>Nationquest Chapter I
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2021/4960154
>Nationquest Chapter II: Rise of the Waves
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2021/5009817
>Captainuest Chapter I
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2021/5032045
>Captainquest Chapter II- Landfall
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2022/5062211
>Nationquest Chapter III- The Return
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2022/5293364
>Revolutionquest
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2022/5344863

Welcome back folks. We're building up to our epic conclusion. Hope you enjoy playing whether old or new.

>>5384661
>The Messiah
Let's not change horse mid-stream. Would feel weird!

>>5384661
I’m fine with whoever, but I would prefer Aggi, and if not her, Lono.

>>5384661
>The Noble
Norodom is Agana’s endorsed successor in the election, a wealthy woman whose loyalty lies in her trade businesses and using the porter tribes for land and labor. Her once unbroken lead is threatened by...

Let's get sloppy!

>>5384661
>>The Messiah
Jesus take the wheel.

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>>5384661
>Art: Herb Kawainui Kāne
It rained on the first day of the Grand Council. Rain is rare in the highlands, it would have to be in a city with so many mud huts. The feathers of your ʻahu ʻula sag in the rainwater, making the weight of command literal as well as poetic.
Your Elite Guard escorts you across the bamboo platform, they won't be allowed inside but Guret, leader of the Guard, insists on it for your protection. Even after the uprising, the city is on edge.
The New Hall of Peace is impressive, even unfinished. Illa Dreamwood shaped in Taya styles by Ponni hands. An achievement of the tribal unity you and your meta-sister have been fighting for. Are still fighting for.
Once inside you see you were the last to arrive. The parties to the negotiations have positioned themselves on opposite sides of the table.

On the East Side:

Axeholder Agana: Current Leader of the Island
Nodorom : Wealthy heiress to the Island’s largest plantation and Agana’s chosen successor, your rival in the election.
Eko: Manager of most markets in the city. You secretly have his boss held hostage so his orders are actually written by you.

On the West Side:
Kaori: Holyperson and activist for the poor tribes. Claimed to be the messiah by many of the poor tribes.
Kasi: Former Elite Guard. Left after you claimed to be the messiah. Later became the leader of a gang of bandits of the poor tribes, robbing wealthy traders.
Gamboa: Member of the Muli, the poorest of the tribes. You haven’t met him: a true enigma

Which side you sit on will show your affinity in this process.

If you sit on the Westside you will show your allegiance to the poor tribes, but risk undercutting your status as the messiah by allying with a rival claimant.

If you sit on the East, you show dedication to the laws of The Island but risk undercutting your shaky support with the poor tribes that have fueled much of your campaign. Seeming to ally with Nodorom could also be seen as a sign of weakness.

Where do you sit?

>East Side
>West Side
>Write-in

>>5385486
>Sit on the north side. Were the star helps guide your fleet during the night.

>>5385500
Support, I like the idea

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>>5385500
>>5386649
> Furniture: Batak People, Photo: Denis van Der Water

You take a stone chair and with great effort, move it to the North side of the table. Set aside from both parties you look over the proceedings as if you were at the head of the table. Norodom speaks as you sit.

So Aggy’s little brother thinks he’s in charge now? Figured someone who calls themself divine would be arrogant.
“I’m here to help the people of the Island, not bicker about the election.”
That’s another thing. Just why are you here? We all represent tribes and stakeholders of the city or lead the Island itself. Who do you represent?

She’s leading you into a trap.

You can say you represent the Ahi, your tribe, but that carries the expectation that you’ll work for your home tribe’s interests instead of the poor tribes you are building support with. And since the Ahi have little to do with the city, you could be seen as a meddler trying to spread your tribe’s influence.

You can say you represent the poor tribes. It would be seen as an endorsement of their uprising and maybe shore support with them, but it also shows you as an outsider paternalistically speaking for people who haven't chosen you.

You can say you come as the Ratu Adil, savior of the Island. It's a strong claim to legitimacy but it also implies you have authority even though you haven't won the election. This would go over well with your most fervent of supporters but could be seen as a power grab bordering on tyrannical.

You can say you come as Captain of the Great Fleet. An appeal to your credentials but the Fleet’s only role now is distributing the treasure you claimed from the sea across the Island. It sounds good but it is a thin justification for being here.

Or you could say you are here as yourself a concerned citizen, no claims, no titles, no powers. Just Lono. It doesn't ruffle any feathers but it doesn't give you much legitimacy.

Who do you represent?

>The Ahi
>The Poor Tribes
>Myself, the Ratu Adil
>The Great Fleet
>No one

>>5386885
>The Great Fleet, the first successful multi-tribal project of the island. Given recent events, it’s clear you could use my insight and experience.

>>5386885
>The Great Fleet, the first successful multi-tribal project of the island. Given recent events, it’s clear you could use my insight and experience.

>>5386885
>The Great Fleet, the first successful multi-tribal project of the island. Given recent events, it’s clear you could use my insight and experience.

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>>5387456
>>5387487
>>5387625
>Art: Udom Phlong

“I represent The Great Fleet, the first successful multi-tribal project of the island. Given recent events, it’s clear you could use my insight and experience.”

Norodom leans back in her chair like a cat that caught the day's catch.

Norodom: The Great Fleet has no jurisdiction here. We are on the Island, far from the sea, I call for Captain Lono to be removed from this meeting.
“Removed? That is excessive!
Norodom: Surely you wouldn't try to use your relation to the Axeholder to gain special privileges. It is tense enough that she has her meta-brother running against her chosen successor.

Agana slams her ax on the stone table with all the frustration of a drunkard woken from a hangover at the crack of dawn.

Agana: Enough. Captain Lono will stay, as an observer and advisor. He will have no negotiating power in the proceedings. Can we start now? Please.

Norodom smirks, satisfied with this "compromise."

Norodom: Of course Axeholder, as usual, your wisdom is correct. I am sure the Captain will have a great many insights from his time at sea.

You REALLY don’t like how she keeps bringing up the sea. The memories are... Unpleasant. In any case, you need to know how to react.
You could ask to put it to a vote. Norodom would screw you over of course, but you have decent approval with the poor tribes. Kasi may still resent you for proclaiming yourself Ratu Adil but surely they won't hold that against you here? Right? Gamboa is a mystery but you have a working relationship with the Muli. Eko’s been ordered to follow your lead by who he thinks is his boss. All said, there is a good chance it goes your way, but it's not guaranteed.

You could demand a seat at the table. On the back of your authority as Captain of the Great Fleet and Ratu Adil. You still have the support of the largest business on the Island and control of what some see as The Island’s only army. You also have most of the shining material you were tasked with giving to the leaders of the tribes. Given your leverage, no one here is in a spot to refuse you. But such a display of force and intimidation could backfire, both in the election and in the negotiations.

Finally, you could accept Agana’s order. Use your influence and soft power to steer the negotiations without having a final say in anything.

>Call for a Vote
>Demand full negotiation power
>Accept the advisory role
>Write-in

>>5387648
>Accept the advisory role

>>5387648
>Accept the advisory role
We don't have enough support for the vote

>>5387648
>Accept the advisory role

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>>5387705
>>5387771
>>5388373
{Model: Michelle Manu. Photos Property of: Michelle Manu.}

“I accept the Axeholder’s wisdom”
Agana: Thank you. Now let’s get to business.

Gamboa gives you a knowing smile. What are they hiding?

Agana: We are gathered here in the name of The Great Peace. As your chosen Axeholder I swear before The Loa to uphold that peace. Do you all do the same?

Kaori: I am Kaori of the Nupuri, I represent my tribe and the suffering people of Kutha Rakyat. I swear to The Great Peace.
Kasi: I am Kasi of the Ponni, I represent my tribe and its starving people, forced into thievery by your laws. I swear to The Great Peace.
Norodom: I am Nodorom of the Chantou, I represent my tribe, my family, and all the other businesses whose trade is threatened by lawless criminals.

Kasi looks like they could rip Norodom’s throat out here and now.

It is Eko’s turn to speak. Unknown to everyone in this room, his boss, Wiji of the Taya, is your prisoner miles away. The messages he’s been getting on what to do in this meeting were secretly written by your hand. What do you have him say? (Choose one or more)

>I represent the Taya tribe
>I represent the market owners of the city

>I stand for the oppressed of the city.
>I stand for the rule of law.
>I stand by the wisdom of the Ratu Adil.
>I stand by Norodom, the next Axeholder of this Island.

>>5389173
>I represent the market owners of the city
>I stand by the wisdom of the Ratu Adil.
Oh look, turns out we do have a vote afterall. What a surprise! Give Norodom a smile.

>>5389173
>I represent the Taya tribe
>I represent the market owners of the city

I don’t know whether to try and false flag Norodom into a false sense of security while competing for the other’s favor or immediately upset the balance of power and wing it from there.

Gonna give a bit more time for a tiebreaker before I break it myself . As is

>I represent the market owners of the city
Is the current consensus, with a split decision if he says anything more

>>5389865
Well, by claiming to represent the market owners, we are already challenging her claim to represent all business owners.
So I say we go all the way on upseting the balance.

>>5390706
Sure, I’ll support your prompt. I do think having the Taya representation split from their traditional voting block would be wise though.

>I stand by the wisdom of the Ratu Adil.

>>5390803
Then I will support your vote for then to also represent the Taya tribe.

>>5389173
>I represent the Taya tribe
>I represent the market owners of the city

No need to show our hand yet. We can DEMONSTRATE the wisdom of the Ratu Adil by "agreeing" with what Eko says.

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>>5390971
>>5390886
>>5390803
Art: Devi Villanueva

Eko: I am Eko of the Taya, I represent the Taya tribe and the Market owners of the city.

You smirk internally. Having two competing voices for the business interest in the city will weaken their voting block in your decisions. You see Nordom holding back a sneer as she looks at Eko.
Gamboa stands from their seat and looks directly into Agana’s eyes.

Gamboa: I am Gamboa, and I represent the Eighth Tribe!
Norodom: What?!
Eko: This is madness!
Agana: Order!
Norodom: This council is a joke!
Gamboa: The Great Peacemaker said the tribe is a servant of the people, and when that servant fails its task it is to be replaced by any other. We the people of Nakotan reject your ancient squabbles, and I have been sent here to announce our brave new world.

Neikotan is a slum of Kutha Rakyat that grew from the workers of the poor tribe who were brought over to build the city and its trade roads. A child murdered by a peacekeeper there is what led to the current uprising.

Agana: AHHHHHH!!
Agana stands up with a scream and slams the side of her ax so hard on the table it almost cracks.

Agana: I understood you were representing the Muli, not this new “Eight Tribe”

Gamboa grins at you.

Gamboa: The Muli of the old ways believe the self-proclaimed Da’tuq Adil will win the election, and let them stay in their rivers. Those of the new era have chosen me as their speaker.
“Kaori, did you know about this?”
Kaori: In Neikotan, I have seen Ponni that are closer to the Muli they are living with than their own families back home. It isn’t surprising something like this happened.
Norodom: We came here to keep our city from burning down, not to hear the rants of every wanna-be peacekeeper on The Island.
Guret: Someone who beats their wealth out of slaves shouldn't talk about peace.
Norodom: You’re lucky you’re not arrested, thug!
Agana: The next person who butts in like that finds out this isn’t for show.

She waves the ax around, you can see the bags under her bloodshot eyes.

Agana: We put it to a vote. If this... Eighth Tribe will have a seat at this table, then we can FINALLY start this.
Eko: Captain Lono has no vote, but he does have a voice. He should speak so it can inform our choices.

Eko is acting according to instructions. Letting you speak in an unknown scenario so he knows whether to follow your lead or not.

What do you suggest?

> Give the Eighth Tribe full voting power
> Make Gamboa an non-voting adviser, such as yourself
>Remove them from the council
>Write-in

>>5391060
When this vote is in the set-up stage of Nation Quest IV will be complete.

After three or so quests with a similar setup, I think it's clear Nationquest is a small more niche quest where an intimate group of players follows it from thread to thread.

This is fine by me. Since these quests have such small groups, it makes it easier to tailor the gameplay and story to the tastes of the player.

In light of that please be vocal with your interests and suggestions, I plan to make use of the advantages of the low-voter dynamic. (For example since I know I only have three voters, I can wait until everyone has chimed in before updating.)

>>5391060
>Make Gamboa an non-voting adviser, such as yourself

When WE get representation, perhaps we will be an position to advocate for the Eighth Tribe to have some as well. Otherwise, it might be seen as favouritism. Hint hint

>>5391066
I quite trust your judgement so far. As you've gone along, the quests have refined, not generally falling into old pitfalls. keep on keeping on!

>>5391060
> Make Gamboa an non-voting adviser, such as yourself
>Times of change are coming day, and when they do the eigth tribe will be accepted. But for now, the future shall advise the old.

>>5391060
> Give the Eighth Tribe full voting power
Either way, maybe we can bond with them. The Eight Tribe is giving me Fallout NV Lonesome Road vibes, about a new strong tribe believing in Americana. I think this will either be a positive development (the tribal melting pot Aggy always envisioned) or a destabilizing one, but I like the vibe.

>>5391066
I trust your judgment. I’m hoping we can retain the Democracy, and have the Authoritarianism wax and wane in cycles.

I do find it amusing that previous events are considered ‘exceptionally stable’ though.

>>5391168
How about a constitutional monarchy? The tribes keep their democracy with a parliament, but the authority belongs to the Adil line

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>>5391168
>>5391093
>>5391070

>Art: Anonymous (From the Mortuary Chapel of Rekmire)

“In my time at sea, I saw how new unions can come from people whose ancestors once killed each other. This Eight Tribe will be accepted one day, but for now, I believe they should advise alongside me.”

Eko: A Compelling statement, I agree.
Guret: You agree that a people’s voice should be held until someone else deems it so?
Agana: I don’t think that’s what...
Kaori: I agree with Guret. If we recognize the people of Neikotan as their own tribe, they should have a voice at this table.
Norodom: This meeting is to deal with the lawlessness in our city, not to give out power like fruits at a festival.
Kaori: This meeting is about the people of Neikotan fighting for justice. What sense does it make to give them no say in their future?
Gamboa: The fact we’re having the conversation is part of the problem. No one should have to beg for their humanity like table scraps.
Norodom: Where does this end? Will they want a vote in the Axeholder elections? This “tribe” has no land, no they expect the Hall of Peace to give them the Taya’s? And what of tribute?

Agana looks around the table, reading the room.

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>>5392213
>Art:Sergii Golotovskiy
Agana: Given the circumstances, Gamboa may vote as a representative of the people of Neikotan, but the Hall of Peace does not recognize them as a tribe today. It raises too many questions. Questions for another day.
Gamboa: That day shall come soon, Axeholder. And when it does, we shall remember who stood beside us.
Agana: Our membership is settled, we should move to the main topic, the unrest in the city.
Guret: The “unrest” is to demand our Axeholder do what we elected her to do. Uphold the Great Peace and bring the murderer to justice.
Norodom: You speak of justice while you steal from hard-working traders? While your people threaten to burn down the city.
Kaori: A riot is the language of the unheard. The people of Neikotan would not seek their own justice if it was provided to them.
Gamboa: The overseers work us like animals. Rogini’s murder is the fruit of that abuse.
Norodom: The overseers ensure your tribes pay your tribute. The Axeholder was gracious enough to let you pay in labor and you repay her by bucking at every instance.
Guret: You took people raised in fields of grass and raging waters and have them backing bricks in the sun. What did you expect?
Norodom: For tribes to honor their commitment.
“If I may, there are other ways to serve The Great Peace. As Gamboa said, I proposed that the Muli serve by managing the river and its trade. We don’t have to choose between The Great Peace and the people it serves."
Norodom: The city is growing. It will be the heart of a new nation. The bickering tribes melted down into one glorious testament to The Island’s will. Where anyone from any tribe can work hard and make something for themselves. We can’t have that if people bring the old tribal warfare back to it.
Agana: I swore to uphold The Great Peace. This uprising does threaten that.
Guret: Ridiculous. Even your kin knows who the true violator is. The Captain promised to bring this killer to justice, are you saying he would hold that Ax better than you do now?

Eko turns to you and Norodom follows his gaze.

What do you say?

>The Axeholder is honor-bound to bring this killer to justice.
>We must overhaul the tribute system.
>The overseers need to be stopped.

>>5392216
>The Axeholder is honor-bound to bring this killer to justice.
>We must overhaul the tribute system.

>Justice needs to be done, there's no questioning it, that overseer treated a worker like a slave, and so he broke the Great Peace first. But that's only a reaction to this event.
>Simply stopping the overseers means breaking the deal and tribute, putting others to watch over their work would not ensure that any abuses would stop. Only remaking the tribute system would ensure that each tribe contributes what it can, what it knows, what it's capable. Even in the most melted of pots, there are still different lumps

>>5392216
>The Axeholder is honor-bound to bring this killer to justice.
>We must overhaul the tribute system.
These tribes offered up their labor, not their lives. The killing was an injustice that must be righted, and the tribute system overhauled to prevent this situation from happening again

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>>5392606
>>5392353
Art: Kim French White
“We have to bring the killer to justice, but that’s just a start. If we don’t reform the tribute system this will keep happening.”
Norodom: We should heed the Captain's Wisdom here, it’s clear the labor tribute is a failure.

She turns to Gamboa.

Norodom: The tribes of the old ways are set in their traditions. They would send their children to work for foreigners instead of paying their fair share. Once the Ponni pay with their land, the people of Neikotan can live in peace.
Guret: You’ll never get Ponni land!
Norodom: That land belongs to the Island, the same as the seseps of wine *my* tribe didn't have a problem with giving to the Hall of Peace.
Guret: You can pay your tribute because you don’t pay for labor! That wine is stained with blood whipped from sharecroppers! The Ponni aren’t slavers like your kind.
Norodom: You call us slavers while you run in the dirt with cutthroats!
Agana: If you can’t stop this bickering I’ll remove you! Gamboa, I believe Norodom was speaking to you.
Gamboa: Norodom, your pledge holds promise but I’m afraid it's empty air. We sit at the table with an Axeholder preparing to leave and two candidates whose fate is uncertain. How can we be sure anything agreed to today will hold power?
Nordom: I swear by the Loa that any laws the Hall of Peace agrees to today will be carried on under my reign. Agana began this Island’s unity, I will be honored to continue it. Surely you can say the same, Captain?

She gives the floor with a shit-eating grin. It will look bad if you disagree, really bad, but committing your policy to follow laws that haven't been written yet? There has to be a way out.

>Agree to keep any laws and agreements made today in power if you become Axeholder
>Disagree

>>5393122
>Agree to keep any laws and agreements made today in power if you become Axeholder
I'd try to use weasel-words, but this is no binding demon-deal. If we find the laws objectionable and dangerous to The great peace later, we can break them as needs must.

>>5393122
>Agree to keep any laws and agreements made today in power if you become Axeholder
I plan on suggesting taxes and expertize, and that the richer tribes pay more. It would only screw over Norodom tribe and ours, and we have taken over Agana's by force, and probably garantee the votes of the poorer ones.
Given that more than half of this council is of the poor tribe, we have forced Eko to vote to what we want, and Agana is secretky supporting us, we can make Norodom be forced to promise to follow an agreement taht screws over her own tribe.
But when we become axeholder the Ponni continue bitching after everything we did for them, given that every time we gave conseccion to what they wanted, I say we just diaspora their ungrateful asses.

>>5393122
>Agree to keep any laws and agreements made today in power if you become Axeholder, so long as it doesn’t upset the Great Peace
We’ll try these laws out, but if it doesn’t work, we’ll have to fix it at a later date.

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>>5393418
>>5393784
>>5393128
>Art: Stable Diffusion
“I agree. Anything the Axeholder agrees to enforce here will be continued under my stewardship.”
Norodom: It is clear no one here supports the Labor tribute. We talked about problems enough, it’s time to get to the solution. I move we vote for a new Tribute system here and now.
Gamboa: Wait. The Axeholder’s of the future have promised to honor laws made here today, but only one has the power to make those laws.
Kasi: The Axeholder is sworn to the will of the people, she wouldn’t deny our voice.
Kaori: The Axeholder is sworn to the will of the *tribes*, and not all are present here.
Kasi: She was elected three times, her authority is unquestionable.
Kaori: Why do you assume this council will vote with your wishes? We agree the Labor Tribute failed, not what to replace it with.
Norodom: This argument is nonsense. Aganna will hand over the axe at year's end.
Aganna: I’m sworn to the Great Peace. Anything I do here will be in its name.
Gamboa: A politician’s answer, your parents trained you well.
“Do NOT talk about our parents!”

The council turns towards your outburst. You’ve been bottling up so many emotions for this campaign you can feel them pulsing under the surface like juice in overripe fruit.

Norodom: If the esteemed captain would like the floor so much, perhaps he can give his “advice” before we vote.

What should the new Tribute System be?

>Write-in

>>5394224
>The tribute needs to suit the tribe that pays. The failute of labor tribute is not because of the idea itself, but the inplementation. Farmers have been made to cook bricks, when they would help much more on the fields. Not only that, but the overseer being disconected from the workers creates tensions. Let the work leaders be from the same tribe, or colleagues, and the overseers be simple bureaucrats that take stock of the quotas. A poor tribe, with few people or bad lands should pay less than a rich, populous and fertile one. We are all brothers now, of one of our members suffer, we ate made weaker, not stronger.
>So I propose that each tribe pays what it can afford, comparing the riches, size and population of each other, and to institute a choice between goods, land or service, depending on their expertise. Let the builder build led by a bulder, a farmer farm led by a farmer. Just like my promise with the Muli.
Tldr: Make overseers just scribes checking quotas, make the leaders of workers locals, proportional tribute, and can choose to pay between goods, money, land or expertise.
Also, if there is no common currency, make one. It helps with trade and Lono should have seen how useful it is on his journey.

>>5394253
Oh, and don't forcefully take the people from their tribe.
Only people that volunteer to come to Neikotan or work the national lands should come. Institue a maximum period that they are to work there. If they wish to remain more, they can file to become part of the eight tribe.
Which is why I said that it would be recognised soon but not now.

>>5394253
>>5394259
Supporting.

>>5394224

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>>5394224
>Art:Anonymous, from the Tomb of Nakht

“The Labor tribute failed because you took the choice out the tribes’ hands. You can’t force people to work in strange lands, away from their homes in skills they aren't trained for, overseen by foreigners. The communities of each tribe should volunteer their tribute in land, goods, or services, in a way that works for them. This is why I promised the Muli to have them serve as guardians of the Damballah. If a community sends laborers it must be in jobs they choose and with volunteers managed by their own people.”
Norodom: That sounds lovely as a speech but unrealistic in truth. The needs of the Island are so vast we can’t afford to only use the tribute offered to us. What happens when no one wants to pay with labor? How will we run the affairs of the Island?
Kasi: You could try paying people. I know you’re used to giving warm grass as wages but I’m sure you can adjust.
Norodom: Every free breath you take is a gift, criminal. The leniency Captain Lono showed you is why I’m better suited to be Axeholder.
Agana: This isn’t your campaign.

Norodom shrinks back. It’s the most uncomfortable she’s looked all day.

Kaori: I agree the tribute should be mutual aid. Each tribe should give in proportion to what it has to offer. Expecting the Ponni to pay the same as the Chantou is what is *truly* unrealistic.
Norodom: Why should the Chantou bear the eight of other tribes? We built our wealth over generations, we shouldn't give more than is owed.
“Kaori is correct. Demanding heavy tribute from poorer tribes will only lead to more crime.”
Norodom: Gamboa, I promise you today that if you back my vision of the tribute, as Axeholder I will recognize the Eighth Tribe.
“She just said no campaigning!”
Norodom: Watch the temper Captain, this isn’t a boat for you to play warrior in. My position is a valid proposal for this council. With the Ponni land, the city can expand enough that it can afford to donate Neikotan to these proud people.
Kasi: And make a new tribe loyal to you? You would guarantee reelection for years.
Gamboa: For such a militant it seems odd you would see your own people as mindless pawns of another tribe?
Kasi: You can’t seriously be considering this snake?
Eko: If I may.

Eko stands. Good. You need someone backing you.

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>>5395943
>Forging: The State of Yan.

Eko: This bickering over tribute is because we are trapped in the past. Ahi cowries have seen great use as currency in the Taya markets, I think we can expand it.
“What are you saying, Eko?”
Eko: This miracle material you brought from overseas. Each tribe is owed a portion, yes? Rather than fighting over people, land, or labor, the tribes can give their portions of this foreign good to the Hall of Peace. The Axeholder can then use these as payment for whatever resources they need to fulfill their duties which would trickle the currency back to the tribes.
Kasi: Those materials will revolutionize our tools and weapons. They shouldn't be hoarded in Kutha Rakyat.

What is Eko doing?! You didn't tell him to say this.
Norodom can barely hold in her shit-eating grin.

Nordom: If you think the material is so wonderful, shouldn't it be in the hands of the Axeholder, Keeper of the Great Peace, and not in the hands of tribes and their hidden motives?
Kaori: This plan is unsustainable, we have a limited supply of this material, there is only enough for one, maybe two years of tribute at best.
Eko: There lies the genius. With the material and what it can purchase, The Axeholder can form a permanent Great Fleet. Constantly sailing between our shores and the foreigners, bringing back more of the substance we will build our future on.

He looks dead at you.

Eko: Under the guidance of The Great Captain of course.

The irony. Eko is betraying you, by supporting you? You can see his concept spread on willing ears. Nordom, Gamboa, and even Agana seem to be warming up to it. It is a betrayal of your principles, your promises. Or is it?

Doing this would ALSO keep forced labor out the mud pits, the ones working there would be paid handsomely. And you’ve seen what the material can do, do you honestly want it in the hands of people like your parents or Norodom? With it and a Great Fleet at your back, the Island would be an unstoppable force, the Axeholder a champion of peace against the horrors beyond. The conflicting words of the Island’s people run through your head. Tyrant. Savior. Campaigner. Conqueror. Some would hate you for claiming this power. But what if you need this power to give them what they need?

>Endorse Eko’s proposal
>Reject Eko’s proposal.

>>5395951
>Endorse Eko’s proposal

>>5395951
>Endorse Eko’s proposal
>Let the tribes choose between the material, land, goods or expertise. Your proposal is not completly different then mine. Once there is enough material on the isle, we can change to it being the only price.
>But the tribes still should pay according to their wealth.
Eko is not betraying us, he is suggesting making a currency like I said on my vote. We just need it to be gradual

>>5395951
>Endorse Eko’s proposal
I want this man on our cabinet.

(Sorry for the delay , update will be tomorrow.)

>>5384667
Holy Shit the last time I saw this was years ago, I thought this died.

>>5398318
It apparently passed it's one year anniversary recently.
Welcome back I hope you enjoy.

>>5398484
I very much do, will read all the updates then come back. It was a lot of fun, you do a really great job

>>5398267
Duly noted!

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>>5398522
>>5398517
>>5398484
>>5398267
>>5397491
>>5396247
>>5396015
>>5395951
>Art: Stable Diffusion. Prompt: A traditional Indonesian palace, under construction, in an ancient city at night.
“Eko is correct, the material is an easy and simple way to give tribute, and paying people for labor is far more humane than accepting human bodies as payment. We can’t build the Great Peace on the backs of forced labor.”
Kaori: I agree with your spirit, but Kais raises concerns. This material forms weapons far beyond our current capabilities. Funneling it into the Hall of Peace not only gives The Axeholder immense power over the rest of The Island but is against the spirit of the Great Fleet, which was meant to enrich all the tribes, not just the Hall of Peace.
Eko: Don’t you see, by enriching the Hall of Peace, everyone benefits. Roads, security, ships, these resources will let the Axeholder serve The Island in a way never possible before.
“We can compromise here. The Material can be one option of many for tribes to volunteer for their tribute.”
Kasi: That only increases inequality. Tribes like the Chantou can afford to pay the tribute with the fruits of forced labor. Then they can hoard the material to increase the wealth and power of people like Norodom. Meanwhile, tribes like the Ponni will be forced to give up their material to avoid having their land or people taken.
Agana: I have decided.
The council turns to Agana who has been passively observing so far.
Aganna: This council is meant to advise and show me the will of the Island, but for the rest of the year, the people have chosen *me* to ensure the Great Peace. By my order, the Tribute will be taken from *all* tribes in the form of this material. Poorer tribes will be required to give less of it, but this material will be the foundation of our nation.
Norodom: Axeholder! This is extreme, the nobles of the Chantou are counting on this material to-
Kasi: Build better chains? I served with farmer castes in The Great Fleet, I know how your kind treat their “employees.”
Norodom: You speak on what you don’t know, thug.
Agana: This isn’t up for debate, you swore before the Loa to follow the laws decided here and this is my discussion.
She scrapes her axe along the wooden table and stares every representative int eh eye, daring them to buck back.
Eko: The wisdom of the Axeholder is grand, thank you for accepting the way of the future.
Aganna: With that, we are adjourning for the day, get some rest.

Agana walks out the hall, not even speaking as she passes you.

Today felt like the longest day of your life, The longest since... the sea. But you have an opportunity to regroup and plan your next move. What do you do?

>Talk to one of the other Councilors (name who)
>Meet with the Great Fleet to discuss strategy.
>Venture into the City to gain intel on the situation on the ground.

>>5399255
>Talk to one of the other Councilors (name who)
>Eko. Thank him for his support and his brilliant idea. We will be sure to value his input when we become the axeholder.
I mean, we kind of forced him to, but he did above and beyond.

Gonna let this one run for a bit just longer because I know we have other plays and wouldn't want to cut them out the vote but come the week I'll just go with a one vote update.

>>5399278
+1
Also talk to the 8th Tribe lad.

>>5400750
Sorry, I’ve been busy with some shit.

>>5401206
If we can meet more people, we need ro talk with Kaori, they is the potential rival to Ratu Adil-ship and had some good ideas, and were worried about the bronze deal.
Also I don't remember don't know if it's a dude or a chick and I want to ask.

>>5401218
She, I can also support that as well.

>>5399255
>Thank Eko
>Speak worh the representative of the potential new tribe

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>>5402716
>Art:Anonymous
As the councilors disperse you head towards Eko, he’s the clear standout of the day.

“Thank you for your insight, The Island needs more minds like yours.”
Eko: You flatter me. I’m just a wong cilik, a peasant. Mas Wiji is the true man of vision.

A vision of stuffing his pockets...

“All the same, you’ve proven your skill. I would be honored to have you work with me as Axeholder.”

Eko looks around, his eyes finding Norodom as she speaks to Gamboa.

Eko: Apologies, but it would be uncouth to declare allegiance when the election is still to be determined. And in any case, I am still employed by Mas Wiji.

>I understand. I hope you change your mind.
>As you sure? As Captain and Ratu Adil, there are many advantages to working with me.
>Didn't you say that you would heed the judgment of the Ratu Adil? That judgment says you best serve The Island by my side.

>>5402726
>My proposal is for when I take the Axe Eko, not for now. I'm giving you time to think about it instead of springing it on when I win.
>This is not a trade for your support. You clearly have knowledge and skill, which I'll need for when the material starts flowing through the island.

>>5402814
Supporting.

>>5402726

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>>5384661
>Pictured: The Bhuvanakosa. Author:Anonymous

“My proposal is for when I take the Ax, Eko, not for now. I'm giving you time to think about it instead of springing it on when I win. This is not a trade for your support. You clearly have knowledge and skill, which I'll need for when the material starts flowing through the island.”
Eko: Again, I am flattered and honored, but even if you gain the axe, my place will be in service to Mas Wiji.
“Understood, let us move onto other matters.”

>What do you know about Kaori?
>What do you know about Gamboa?
>What do you know about the markets?

>>5403512
>>What do you know about the markets?

>>5403512
>What do you know about Gamboa?

>>5403512
>What do you know about Gamboa?
>What do you know about the markets?

>>5404012
Please pick one option.

>>5404063
Gamboa then

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>>5404064
>>5403544
>>5403554
>>5404064
>Art: Bala MOUMOU

“What do you know about Gamboa?’
Eko: A real troublemaker that one. He’s been stirring up the workers in Neikothan but I had no idea he was working towards an eighth tribe.
“Stirring up how?”
Eko: He would tell the workers they were akin to slaves, sold by their tribes to Taya masters. More than once the market prices went up because he convinced laborers to stop.
“Do you know where he came from?”
Eko: He’s Muli, but no one has a record of him being a part of the labor tribute. He must have come from the river to incite the other poor tribes.
“Not a laborer? What does he live off of?”
Eko: Donations are my best guess, or bumming off of people.
“No family?
Eko: He doesn't seem to be married but he’s always seen in the slums with various vagabonds.
“ What kind of vagabonds? Is he connected with Kaori?”
Eko: I don't think so. This council may be the first time anyone has seen them together. His usual types are young, most of them new to the city. I have to say, this is quite the inquiry, are you thinking of making a move against them>

>No, this was just for information.
>Yes, and I need your help to do so
>No, I believe in his position.

>>5404797
>No, this was just for information.
He is of great import. Either he'll be a representative of a new tribe, or an agitator which supporters of a failed cause will rally around. Friend, or enemy. Either way... We need to keep an eye on him, and heed his words.

>>5404797
>No, this was just for information.
Got to keep an eye on that one, these types of agitators either believe what they preach or are in ti for personal gain. And he was already willing to listen to Norodom.

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>>5404797
>>5404829
>>5404981
>Art: Unknown (From the Borobudur Temple)

“No, it was just for information. Someone like him is someone we need to keep an eye on.”
Eko: I agree Ratu Adil, though I wouldn't hesitate to take him out given the chance. Troublemakers like him are bad for business.
“Well, let’s hold off on moves like that for now. This council is still young there are many ways we can move forward.”
Eko: Very well Ratu Adil, is there anything else you would like to know?

>Ask any three questions. The three questions with the most votes will be asked.

>>5405360
>What goods are traded in the markets, their origins and demands
>Any big players to watch out to know about, other than him, Mas Wiji and Norodom?
>Something about Kaori. She is a rival for Ratu Adil, even if she denies it, and we know very little about her.

>>5405360
>What do you think of Kaori?
>What of all this Ratu Adil business?

That's all I've got.

>>5404797
Gamboa should likely align with our ideals? We've been pretty good in terms of material equity so far. The question is whether he is a charismatic statesman or idealistic madman, so if he doesn't have some level of subtlety, we won't be able to work well with him

>>5405360

>>5405392
>What goods are traded in the markets, their origins and demands
>What do you think of Kaori?
I'm specifically interested in her opinion of us, Nupuri. They live in the mountains and mine stones correct? Given time, they should be able to learn how to shape the "shining material" or even determine whether we can obtain/process it ourselves, which would reduce the poverty problem in their lands.
>Any advice for the future of the Ponni?
Eko seems smart, he should know the Ponni don't really have much to offer except grassland(which is garbage) and people. It's possible we could just leave them to their own land, and offer them trade with the cities for whatever(maybe livestock? from the not-island or doomswine). Literally fuck the Ponni, they got the biggest share of loot from our ship, and they were thanking us for only letting them work in labor. This is a democracy and they actively work against a system that benefits them

>>5405491
>What do you think of Kaori?
Has three votes

>>5405392
>What goods are traded in the markets, their origins and demands
Has two
Next question to get a second vote will be the thrid one asked.

>>5405885
>Any advice for the future of the Ponni?
But maybe frame it more as just asking his thoughts, rather than "advice", so he doesn't get offended if we don't take it.

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>>5406562
>>5405885
>>5405669
>>5405491
>>5405392

>Art:https://www.instagram.com/tyraknifesaurus/

“What do you think of Kaori?”
Eko: She’s a radical, stirring up trouble in workers where there wasn’t any.
“She seemed pretty peaceful to me.”
Eko: Peaceful like giving food and shelter to those rioters who tore down my markets!... I’m sorry Ratu Adil, I shouldn’t be so emotional.
“It’s fine. She’s Nupuri, right?
Eko: Technically. Rumors are she got kicked off the rock because of some primitive law or other. Nups don’t leave their caves much anyway unless it's to find work as runners. I hadn't even seen one in person before your sister started importing them.
“Metasistser.”
Eko: What?
“Nevermind, what do you think she thinks of me?”
Eko: You’re a rival to her. The people in the slums call her Ratu Adil instead of you.
“But she’s never claimed the title.”
Eko: She doesn’t have to. A horde of them almost tore this building down. What do you think they’ll do when you win the election? A “false messiah” in our highest office? The Great Peace would burn. If you follow my advice, she needs to be dealt with before she becomes a bigger problem.
“I see, and does the thought extend to the Ponni as well?”
Eko: The Ponni are proud and arrogant. They’ve resisted our efforts at civilization for generations. Norodom wants more of their land but that’s just asking for raids. You saw what happened with your former servant. Even if they agree to a deal, bandits will plague the new land before anything can be done with it.
“That’s why you want the material tribute.”
Eko: Soon, the Ponni will have the largest portion of that treasure on the island. They can’t be trusted with something that valuable. We take their foreign weapons and leave them to their grass huts, far away from our great city. If you lock up the grain, the vermin won't come.
“And the Taya markets swell with the most valuable products in history.”
Eko: Very wise, Ratu Adil. The radicals in Kutha Mardika have been our greatest “allies.” When your... meta-sister took this city as her capital, the rest of the Taya embargoed the other tribes. No goods in or out, except through Taya territory.
“Which Kutha Rakat technically is.”
Eko: The Beholder's roads and trade routes bring Chontou wine and fabric, Ahi salt and pearls, Illa Dreamwood, and Nupuri gemstones into our markets. We buy them and sell them at five times the markup to North and East Taya desperate for exotic goods.
“And this material is the most exotic of all. If the Taya have to give up their portion of it to the Axeholder the only way for Kutha Mardika to get it back is through your markets.”

Eko claps his hands together.

Eko: The markets and the Axeholder. These are the two pillars of our society. This Island and the Sea will feed them with wealth and this wealth will make Kutha Rakyat the center of the world.

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>>5408099
>Artist: Marie Leilehua McDonald

“I appreciate your ins-uurk”

You stumble onto your table. You didn't know how late it got. You and Eko are the only ones still here. You feel like you haven't slept since you joined the fleet. If you don’t sleep soon your mind will be compromised in tomorrow’s meeting. But there is still so much work to be done.

>Sleep
>Keep going (Choose to Meet with the Great Fleet or Venture into the City)

>>5408110
>Sleep

>>5408110
>Meet with the Great Fleet

>>5408110
>Meet with the great gleet

we're gonna need an army seen lol

>>5408110
>Sleep

>>5408110
You can consider my vote switching to sleep, just to keep the quest moving.

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>>5409017
>>5408346
>>5408218
>>5408115
>>5408110
>Art:Prasanna Weerakkody

You get up, walking past Eko’s confused and concerned face. You feel your body nearly giving out on you but you have to push. There is so much to do, so many people to talk to, and an endless flood of tasks washing over you like the sea.
The cool air of the city snaps you out of your funk, you see the people. Living. Struggling. Making it one day at a time. They need you, and you need to be alive to serve them well. You beeline towards your guest room at the Hall of Peace and sleep like you haven't since childhood.
_
The next morning the councilors got into rhythm. Moving past the jockeying for position and status, they can get to business more quickly.

Agana: The next order of business is the matter of justice. For the overseer, the protestors
Norodom: And the raiders.
Kasi: You’re out of line. That isn’t in the scope of this council.
Norodom: You yourself said your people were “forced into thievery” by the law, you’re well within the scope of this council.
Eko: I agree. These raiders have caused much damage to our commerce.
Kaori: Kutha Rakyat was carved from the Ponni grasslands, the tribute weakened their labor force and the road construction disrupted their doomswineherd fields. They were forced into it.
Eko: If I recall, the labor tribute was seen as a blessing by the Ponni, a mercy from the Axeholder due to their poverty.
Kasi: Old men sent their sons and daughters away to hoard their own wealth.
Kaori: Even if the tribe did agree to it, we already established it didn't work out. You gave us our “solution” Eko, what good does hunting down raiders do now? They're no longer a threat.
Norodom: The Axeholder is sworn to uphold the peace, they broke it, end of story.
Kasi: And your open intent to invade our lands didn't? Nonviolence in the face of danger isn't peace.
Eko: You sound like a madman.
Agana: We’re not going in circles again. Everyone state your positions now.
Gamboa: The Da’tuq Adil should go first. Given their position as advisor.

Gamboa hasn't spoken all morning until now? What’s his angle?

>The Raiders should be granted pardons
>The Raiders should be hunted down
>The Raiders should be negotiated with

>>5409401
>The Raiders owe reparations, and if they will not make amends they must be hunted down

>>5409401
>The Raiders should be granted pardons
The Ponni are not going to settle down unless they get appropriate conditions. As much as I would like to punish at LEAST some of the Ponni, they're too agitated right now to do it and we don't want to make a martyr of anyone

>>5409401
>The Raiders should be negotiated with
>It was done as an act of desperation, but it was still a betrayal. I've seen something similar leading the great fleet, starvation and other dragging the whole down is something that I'm very familiar with.
>Give them a chance to make amends. I'm no longer at sea, a rebellion won't drown us all if they aren't made an example immediately.

Bid of a deadlock.

In the past players have disliked it when I would shill updates in the general to break ties.

Therefore I am asking you to either get people you feel would like the game to try out a vote and/or debate amongst yourselves.

Especially since it's a three way tie among three options.

>>5409492
>>5409744
changed my vote
>Raiders should be negotiated with
changed my vote

>>5409401
>The Raiders should be hunted down

>>5409479
This was me.

>>5410130
>Hunt them down
Capture for punishment and reparations, ideally, rather than kill-on-sight. That would only inflame things.

Oh wow, it just tied again.

Okay how about this, the very next post, whether change or new vote will be the last one I count.

>>5410379
I (>>5410226) am willing to negotiate if we make it clear that REPARATIONS and APOLOGIES are a must. Fair, Team Negotiator? We cannot appear weak to everyone in power.

In the interest of time I am locking in Negotiate as the final vote.

Feel free to Negotiate amongst yourselves (how meta) what that would look like while I sleep and prep for the next update.

>>5410482
Basically go there and see if we can convince them to offer reparations and apologies, giving back what was stolen, or helping fix what was damaged, out of their own free will.
If they think that this is just the labour tribute, we can try to use that old proposal of choosing to offer their own specialties to pay it back.

>>5410630
Supporting.

>>5410630
Also support, pay something that we can ideally see as adequate(maybe just hand them less of the valuable material as more compensation)

>>5391060
>>5391060
>>5392213
>>5392216
>>5393122
(QMs Note: The Character of "Kasi" was incorrectly called "Guret" in these updates. My apologies for the confusion.)

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>>5409479
>>5409492
>>5409744

>Artist: வேதா (Vētā/Vedha)

"We should negotiate with the Raiders, I've seen what desperation can drive people to do. The emergency has passed. We can meet with them and request repayment without resorting to violence."
Norodom: Repayment? With what? Anything they stole's been eaten or sold.
Kasi: I'm sure they'd love to give you your wine back. It may be a bit warm after they're done with it.
Agana:*Pfft*
Eko: Actually, the Ponni are to be given the largest portion of the material aren't they? There should be plenty to repay the merchants with.
Kasi: This is a power grab. The Ponni were given the largest portion of the material to equalize the wealth of the tribes. You're conspiring to take something meant for The Island to fill your coffers.
Norodom: The Axeholder already decreed to the new tribute, are you so addicted to nursing grudges you’ll do it for something that happened last night?
Kaori: Repayment concerns me as well. The goods stolen were a fraction of the wealth of the markets but this “compensation” could wind up digging people further into poverty.
Eko: They should have thought of that before they stole.
Kaori: They needed to survive.
Kasi: Gamboa, I’m onto you. You throw the seed of discord and sit in silence. Letting us bicker and show our desires and weakness. Then you swoop in like a pigeon to take the choices benefit.
Gamboa: Observant aren’t you? It's a shame you chose the sea over the city. Nakotan could have used someone like you.
Kasi: It *has* me. So does everyone on this Island.

They look at Norodom

Kasi: Even you. I joined The Great Fleet and the Elite Guard because I saw them as our best chance for Peace. I left them when our Captain lost his way. I stand with the Raiders so they can have what they need. This man

He points to Eko.

Kasi: Stands for nothing but power and pocket lining. You can vote to take as much material as you want. You’ll probably get it, but everyone who does should know they’re crafting the knife that will cut their throat.

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>>5411522
>Art:A. MANIVELU
Norodom: If the Great Captain had more sailors and fewer poets he might have come back in time to give your people the wealth they’re so desperate for.

That last crack almost broke you... If you weren’t so well rested, who knows what would happen? As of now, you make due by squeezing your hands so tight you could finger your arm.

Agana: Enough crosstalk. Council, vote for your recommendation.
Norodom: Negotiate
Eko: Negotiate
Kaori: Pardon
Kasi: Pardon
Gamboa: A split decision, a shame I couldn't be a tiebreaker.
Agana: No need. The Hall of Peace will live up to its name. Kasi. Can I trust you to be our envoy to the raider bands? I swear on the Ax no harm will come to those in negotiations.
Kasi: No treachery will come to you. Peace lies in my heart, as it does yours. But be careful. Axeholder

They look directly at you.

Kasi: I’ve seen hearts waver.
Gamboa: With that bit of drama out of the way, I say we move on to the *other* matters of justice. Great Captain, you said you would bring Turla’s killer to justice. What punishment do you suggest?

>Write-in

>>5411527
This one
>>5410630
Kasi and the Ponni really are completely ungrateful for anything, aren't they?
They really like to strike first before thinking, make everything worse and then claim to have the high ground.

>>5411616
I've read the update wrong, sorry
>>5411527
Anyway, what's the normal punishment for murder and slavery? Just do that one

>>5411527
What is the traditional Ponni punishment for murdering a fellow brother in arms? If it follows the Mongols or other Plains people 1 on 1 combat might be a possibility that would seem fair to Ponni

>>5411527
>Traditional punishment
>If it is over lenient or there is no agreement, execution

>>5411522
>வேதா (Vētā/Vedha)
>he stayed till 2am for this

>>5411999
>>5412037
>>5411621
>Island Journal #3: Ponni Justice System

The Chief of the community is the ultimate arbitrator of justice, but trials are held by chief-appointed judges. Ponni trials make use of a jury of disinterested parties. Traditional Ponni punishment for murder is death.

>Island Journal #4: Taya Justice System
The Chief of the Jurisdiction appoints a council of justices. They convene and pass judgment after taking evidence and witnesses. It is often that the victims are the ones to execute the punishment. The traditional punishment for murder is death.

>Island Journal #5: Muli Justice System
The Chief of the community oversees trials assisted by community elders. The traditional punishment for murder is forced labor.

The killing took place in a Taya City (though its jurisdiction is in weird grey area since Agana made it the Island's capital.) The overseer was a Taya employed by The Hall of Peace

Turla, the victim was Muli.

>>5412160
Part of me wants to work him to death, since it would be incredibly fitting and mixes the 3 justice systems.
But it might be more trouble than it's worth, just execute the man and be done with this bloody affair.

>>5412160
Can you tell us about the rest of the tribes traditional punishments for murder?

>>5412162
Same, maybe we can rig a jury full of Nupuri or some other tribe because they qualify as a "disinterested party", and we can put ourselves in as judge using our advisor position. Would also fit in with becoming closer to a dictatorship, but if we don't continue the tradition with our successors it would probably be fine(provided we actually become the next Axeholder)

>>5412160
I am >>5412037, and in light of this...
>Execution
It is the traditional punishment in the offender's tribe and the deceased's.

>>5412160
>Island Journal #6: Ahi Justice System
The usual method of justice is for the injured parties to take justice into their own, in the case of murder this tends to take the form of an attack on the perpetrator's home. Due to social norms, when higher ranked Ahi commute crimes on lower ranked ones, or if the criminal was under the jurisdiction of a different chief than the victim, the victim will appeal to the Chief of wherever the criminal lives for justice.

>Island Journal #7: Nupuri Justice System
Chiefs have no role in the judiciary. An indefinite number of a community's members sat in judgment upon its criminals. Capital punishment and imprisonment do not exist. The penalty for murder is to cut off the nose and ears or to sever the tendons of the killer's feet.

>Island Journal #8: Chantou Justice System
Chief's employ courts of officials who hear disputes. The vast majority of incidents heard by these courts are land disputes. The most severe punishment is live burial. Lesser punishments include whipping and mutilation, often at the hands of the agreed party.

>Island Journal #9: Illa Justice System

Trials are held by communal egalitarian councils headed by priest-chiefs. The death penalty for crimes such as murder, manslaughter, and abduction is resorted to only when it is necessary such as the circumstance in which it is the only fitting punishment in the absence of other appropriate options such as banishment.

>>5412449
>>5412438
I say we follow the Ponni tradition of a trial and fill it full of Illa because they haven't been raided by the Ponni and will likely vote execution if we present our argument as necessary, open to other ideas tho

>>5412482
>fill it full of Illa because they haven't been raided by the Ponni and will likely vote execution
I'm confused. Why would Ponni raiding the Illa make the Illa more likely to execute a Taya for killing a Mulli?

>>5412484
Well op said:
>Trials are held by communal egalitarian councils headed by priest-chiefs. The death penalty for crimes such as murder, manslaughter, and abduction is resorted to only when it is necessary such as the circumstance in which it is the only fitting punishment in the absence of other appropriate options such as banishment.

I think banishment or other punishments besides execution would suit most the tribes. Plus I think knowing this we can frame an execution as "necessary" using the logic of preventing further destruction. Like maybe this last execution will be symbolic of something.

Basically what I want to do is make the trial appear as fair as possible to the Ponni, while rigging the outcome to appease the rest of the tribes.

Maybe another group would work well? Like the Nupuri? But with them, I think they would just mutilate instead of execute

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>Art: Herb Kawainui Kāne
“The traditional punishment for murder and slavery is called for.”
Gamboa: Dodging the question, clever move.
Kasi: Self-determination isn’t dodging the question.
Kaori: Turla was Muli but the murderer was Taya.
Norodom: They're a murderer now? I thought you people were obsessed with justice. What about a fair trial?
Kasi: Like you gave to the raiders?
Eko: The Axeholder can step in. Inter-tribal conflict is her domain.
Gamboa: Nakotan will give the killer justice, surely our Axeholder understands.
Agana: We’re holding a trial. The judgment and sentence will be mine alone. If I can’t trust myself to bring justice, why am I even holding this thing?

She palms the axe as if were as fragile and deadly as the obsidian on its edge.

Norodom: You’ll have your “justice”. Can your people stop these riots?
Kaori: I speak for the oppressed, but their choices are their own. If you feel confident justice will be done, peace will be served.
Eko: That’s not a promise against violence. We’ve already lost two sale days and there are reports of stolen goods.
Gamboa: I’ve seen what those markets charge, I wouldn't complain about thievery.
Norodom: By my count, what to do with these criminals is our last choice. We’ve been more than lenient with lawbreakers, these rioters need to be rounded up.
Kaori: The only reason we’re here is because of these people. What sense does it make to hear them out but then punish them for speaking out?
Norodom: They’re free to speak, not free to steal.
Eko: This is the raiders all over again. Can’t we negotiate for repayment and leave it at that?
Kaori: The raiders are bands with set leaders and structure. This uprising was fluid and organic. No strategy or captains, just passion. Even if you wanted to hunt them down there would be no way to sort those who stole from those who didn’t.
Norodom: Then we crack heads, run through that slum shack by shack.
Kasi: Communal punishment isn't the way of The Great Peace.
Eko:*sigh* Paying for a Peacekeeper force that large would cost more than what was lost. It would be easier for the tribes in question to pay for their citizens. An extra portion of the material tribute perhaps.
Gamboa: Makapagal! You beg for the stuff like you magburat with it.
Most of you don’t speak Muli but his hand gesture sold the meaning.
Eko: If this is what the Eight Tribe calls it's representative it's no wonder they’re not recognized.

Agana leans back in her seat, rubs her temples, and slowly exhales.

Agana: We’ll have extra peacekeepers around the markets and leave it at that.

She gets up and turns away from the council to look at the construction out the window

Agana: What we built here, what we ARE building here, will last for generations. It's not easy and it's not pretty but the work we do makes their lives worth living. Thank you for coming.

She walks out the room, without speaking or even turning towards the council.

>Follow Agana
>Stay & talk to one of the councilors (say which)

>>5413112
kek I thought the murderer was Ponni

>Talk to Kasi
Maybe we can convince their tribe to vote for us in the next election

>>5413112
>>Stay & talk to one of the councilors (say which)
Kaori, she is our messiah rival.
Maybe if we both work together, people can say that the prophecy was fulfilled either way.

>>5413220
supporting this instead, our goals generally align with her anyway right?

>>5413250
More or less, she disagreed on the material trade, but we were agreeing on the labor reform and and the wealth tier tax before then. Maybe sharing about the absolute nightmare of the not-island, the slavery, how they are searching for us and the prison island might convince her why we want the material on the hand of the hall of peace and to modernize as quickly as possible. It's a question of time until they realized we just sent them the opposite direction.
She also disagreed with the repayment of the raiders, but it's less about money and more about the feeling of impunity. If people see that they can break the peace and get away with it, we are only going to see wars come back. The fact that we want an apology instead of punishment should be proof enough we are merciful.

>>5413112
>Follow Agana

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>>5413641
>>5413250
>>5413274
>Pictured: Mina Sakai, Photo: Toru Hanai

You ignore your metasister. Hopefully she can take care of herself. You have more pressing matters to address.

"Kaori, do you have a moment?"

She turns towards Gamboa and Kasi, the two representatives give you respective looks of curiosity and resignation before walking off.

Kasi: We will see you at Jaya Hall.
Kaori: So what did you want to talk to me about , Captain?

>Ask any three questions. The three questions with the most votes will be asked.

>>5414820
>What do the people of the slums need to raise themselves up in our society?
>What role does Kaori see herself playing in the future regarding her people
>Ask how she sees the material being used for the benefit of all tribes

Let's see how plausible her ideas are to know if we can work together

>>5415452
Solid set of questions.

>>5414820
Supporting.

>>5415452
Sure I'll support

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>>5415845
>>5415499
>>5415452
>Pictured: Set Maat, buildings constructed by Anonymous

“This council is almost over, hopefully, the demands of the uprising will be met. When this is all done, what role do you see yourself playing in your people’s future.”
Kaori: The same role, I always have. Providing what people need that I can offer.
“A poetic statement, but I was thinking more specifically.”

She gives a look like she’s been down this road before.

Kaori: I’ll work at my shop, making shoes and oars and doors for the people that want them. Build an extension so people who don't have homes can stay, and be a kind ear to listen to for those under hardship. Listen, I know what you’re getting at. I don't have the desire for heroism or rulership or anything else people pin all their hopes on. People like those because it's easier than the truth. It’s going to take all of us together to solve our problems.
“And yet they call you Ratu Adil.”
Kaori: The people can call me what they want. Fighting human nature is a losing battle. As long as it doesn't keep them from getting their needs, it's no concern of mine.
“And what are those needs? What do the people of Neikotan need to raise themselves up in our society?”
Kaori: The same thing everyone needs. Food, shelter, a way to live that isn’t in service to someone else’s profit. Neikotan wasn’t built as a home, it was built as a farm. People carted in on ramshackle huts, fed the bare minimum to keep working, and pushed so hard they don't have the energy for anything but sleep. The community there is strong, if their needs are met, they can thrive.
“That’s why you wanted the material to stay with the tribes.”
Kaori: Eko would use it for profit. Norodom for an army. But I’ve seen the demonstrations by the Elite Guard, there is potential for so much more. Fish hooks that last ten times as long, nails sturdy enough to support structures unheard of until now, tools to quicken work for carpenters and butchers. We can move past an Island of people struggling over scraps and fighting to get by to people actually *living.* Agana’s tribute law is going to hoard it all to the fleet, the peacekeepers, and anyone rich enough to buy it from the Taya markets.
“But the tribes will be free of other tribute. Neikotan will have the liberation you seek.”
Kaori: You’ve done good, Captain. Of the two options, I hope you win. But one day someone like Norodom will hold the ax, and when that day comes I pray to the Loa they’re not as powerful as Agana just made you.”

She starts to walk to the door but stops before the exit.

Kaori: A few of us are going to the Jaya Hall for drinks. Stop by if you want.

> ”You know what, that sounds like a good idea.”
> “Some other time, I should check on Aggy.”
> Sorry I’m busy, I have work to do with the Fleet.”

>>5416811
> “Some other time, I should check on Aggy.”
> "A person has to take care of those they love while they still can, the sea taught me that everything can be taken away from you in a instant "

>>5416811
>”You know what, that sounds like a good idea.”
Passing on her offer would be losing a great opportunity to gain favor with her crowd. In a democracy the unwashed masses have a stronger say in politics.
>>5416820
We talked to Agana just before the meeting if I remember right? She already wants us to be Axeholder
>"Opportunities for fair weather and good drink are rare, that I learned from the sea"

Plus the Nupuri live in the mountains so maybe they know cool rocks? Prob not the material but maybe other cool shiny/workable stuff

>>5417017
And she went out of the meeting extremely angry, I want to give her some support

>>5416820
Support. Let's not alienate Agana...

>>5416811
> “Some other time, I should check on Aggy.”
> "A person has to take care of those they love while they still can, the sea taught me that everything can be taken away from you in a instant "

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>>5417121
>>5417027
>>5417017
>>5416811
>Art: Sanjani Zakia

“Some other time, I should check on Aggy. A person has to take care of those they love while they still can, the sea taught me that everything can be taken away from you in an instant "

She smiles at you and walks off without a word.
With the peacekeepers mostly guarding the Hall from protestors, security is lax inside the Hall itself. Norodom’s wing is kept tiger than a kua 'iako but you can still reach Agana’s wing relatively unguarded. At the door to her room, only Guret stands guard.

“Good evening old friend, how has work in the Hall been treating you.”
Guret: Rougher than the sea if you can believe it. I joined the fleet to get away from standing around politicians all day, I think I’d prefer the Anayaten at this point.

You share a chuckle.

“I’d like to speak with Agana.”

Guret’s face quickly goes stern.

Guret: “The Axeholder is sleeping at the moment. Come back tomorrow.”
“The sun just went down. Aggy doesn't even change her clothes before midnight.”

Guret’s posture stiffens

Guret: The Axeholder is tired from the council. She needs to rest.

A loud BUMP sounds from Aganna’s room and you rush to it, but Guret blocks your way with their imposing frame

“What’s going on?”

Guret: I can’t let you enter, Captain.

>Try to force your way through
> Interrogate Guret on what's happening
>Leave
>Write-in

>>5418415
> Interrogate Guret on what's happening
> Right now I'm her metabrother, not captain or savior. Atleast warn her I'm here to give support if you can't disobey your orders.

>>5418470
support

>>5418470
>>5418821
The update should be tomorrow. Sorry for the delay. In the mean time, please give any feedback you are comfortable with.

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>>5418470
>>5418821
>>5418415

>Art: Manusina Art.
>Alt Text: A Hawaiian warrior in a mask shaped like a skull.

You reach out to Guret, they flinch, before your palm lands gentling on their shoulder.
“I’m asking as her metabrother, not as your captain or savior. If you can’t disobey your order, please, at least tell her I'm here to help.”

The guard gives a pained nod, then walks through and closes the door

Agana:LEEEEEEAAeeeeevvvffffff!
Guret: Axeholder, your metabrother is here, he wants to he-
Agana: NO. NO. NO. NO. Wherzee?! He can’t be here.

You’ve see chaos almost destroyed you on foreign shores, it won't rule where. You MUST take control.
You burst in on a grisly sight. Agana sprawled on the floor, her clothes in disarray, a foul-smelling liquid is on the floor and the furniture is splayed haphazardly. Plates of food and empty jugs lie around the quarters and her desk is weighted under a small mountain of forms and documents, her ax stabbed straight into its wood.

Agana: Geoouw!!
“What’s going on here?”
Guret: You shouldn’t have to see her like this.

Guret rushes to your metasister’s aid, but she, perhaps emboldened by the intrusion, stands up under her own shaky power.

Agana: I.... Am your Axeholder. I order you to leave.

“Aggy, what happened?”
Agana: You didn’t come back is what happened! I got rid of the only family I had left to push some stupid dream and everything went to shit!
Agana: Guret, I think we need to be alone.

The Spearholder gives you a look of grim honor, then leaves the room.

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>>5420083
>Photo: Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
>Alt Text: A Hawaiian Ipu gourd on a vine next to three containers made from Ipu guards tied with rope and closed with stones

Agana stares at her hands

Agana: This Island issand! Every day I try to hold it together but it just spills through my fingers. Get a good look, this is your life now. Burning arms just to paddle above water.
“We’ve done so much. The material-”
Agana: Another thing to bicker over. I keep it so they don’t kill eachother and they hate me fo rit.

She stumbles to her desk and wildly shuffles through the papers until she pulls out a document.

Agana: This was mom’s plan you know. Before I got her kilt right...

She wobbles her arm around the room, coming to a stop pointing at a wall

Agana: over there. All the money, all the power. One place one Axe. She died cuz I didnt ‘ant that an here we are anyway.

She leans against the desk.

Agana: I think you’ll win Lono. I dunno if Nordom will go esy. I don’t know if the raiders will stop. I don’t know if the Taya won’t try to take theri city back.

She walks toward you and claps her hands on your shoulders. Her eyes are glassy.

Agana: Every day. We wake up with our heads attached, is a gift of The Loa.
“I think you need rest.”

You walk her to bed, and she flops down.

Agana: I was wrong to ask you to do this. Nobetter n our parents. Pushin us to be tools instead of people.

You sit beside her.

Lono: Well, what’s a couple of childhoods compared to the fate of The Island?

She covers her eyes with her hands at pulls them down her face

Agana: Fuck man, I’m worse than Makky.
Lono: Well you haven’t punched out a chief yet, so I think she’s got you beat.
Agana: *pfft* I’ve been tempted. You know Zees threatened to secede?
Lono: What?!
Agana: Right when we moved the Hall here. Had to threaten to cut him off from the Great Peace. Full immunity to any person ro tribe who wanted to start shit with them.
Lono: Fuck Aggy, it was that bad?
Agana: I blew hundreds of people and a year and a half on a vanity project. They saw wweakemsss. That snake you’re running aagisnt was the only thing keeping me in this Loa damned building.
Lono: I’ll beat her as you said. We’ll make a world where people don't have to worry like us.
Agana: You always were the dreamer.

Agan begins to fade to sleep. To see someone of her stature consumed like this, is the weight of The Ax that heavy? You’ve seen Makana on benders before, but this is something different, something darker. What can you do?

>Get help
>Spend the night in the room with her
>Write-in

>>5420088
>Spend the night in the room with her
Comforting clothed snuggles with our sort-of-sister sort-of-fiance seem like they might be contextually, socially acceptable... Right?

>>5420101
support
>Put a blanket on her

>>5420088
>Spend the night in the room with her
>Pray. Meditate. Think. You are Ratu Adil, how can you save the island if you can't save your family. You won't lose her like you lost the others.
Really tempted to ask Kaori for help, she's a "priest" afterall

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>Art:Herb Kawainui Kāne
>Alt text: Hina, Hawaiian Moon goddess floating in front of a solar eclipse holding kapa tools

Young Agana: You’re holding too tight.

You wince as your meta sister brings the numbing ‘awa to your lips.

Young Agana: It's too stressful for someone your age. Papa Kane is totally lolo.
“No! I need to be brave like you. You spend all day with Chief Anuhea learning about ships and big words and I just sit here like Makky! I’m not a baby."

Your metasister sighs and lifts your hands from the back.

Young Agana: When you hold on to something too tight, it only causes pain. Relax your grip, let the oars work *with* you.

She looks into your eyes.

Young Agana: And you’ll be a great captain.

____
Memories flood as you cover Agana with her kapa moe. The world outside may be harsh and cold, but that’s all the more reason to be warm.
___
Aggy must have a will of stone to even be standing right now, let alone giving a speech from the roof of the Hall of Peace.

Norodom: I still say it was a mistake to let them this close if they attack...
“Is your faith in the Axeholer so small? And here I thought you trusted her judgment?”

She winces. It seems she doesn't like being the one snarked and grinned at for once.

Agana: You don’t need to worry, Norodom. I finish here and you can continue your campaign when I’m done. Or now if you prefer.

She gives a smile back at you while her alleged successor isn't looking.

Throngs pour in. Kaoru, Kasi, Gamboa, and the countless people who call this city home. By choice or by law. The sand itself seems to stop midair before the Axeholder makes what would be her final declaration.

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>>5421132
>Art:Herb Kawainui Kāne
>Alt text: A torso image of Pele, Goddess of Hawaiʻi’s Volcanoes. Her hair is on fire and covers her body from the neck down. She ware a crown of flowers.

Agana: My people! You have demanded justice, and we have delivered! I have spoken with you, with your representatives and their wisdom has been heard. The Labor tribute is no more!

Cheers from the poor tribes drown out the jeers of the merchants.

Agana: Captain Lono and the Great Fleet have supplied a miraculous gift from beyond the sea. This material’s strength is matched only by that of the united Island that claimed it. This gift will take the place of the tribute and be used to build a future for the Island as a whole.

A confused silence threads through the crowd.

Agana: This substance, harder than stone and as pure as our hearts, will be named Ebbikele, in honor of the first blood sacrificed to claim it .

Chants of “Ebbi '' echo through the crowd roaring so loud Agana can barely speak over it. You see her wince for a moment, her head probably killing her before she is back in force.

Agana: And justice will be delivered! As we speak the killer of Turla is being brought to trial. I will say her name!

Crowd: Turla! Turla! Turla!

Agana: The raiders of our trade routes and markets are being called to make peace and pay back what was lost. We will stand as one Island United! I won’t be there to see the glorious days of the future, but when the Loa call me to Moana I will go smiling! Knowing that I left behind the greatest nation to grace this world!

She breathes in, inhaling the roars of the crowd that dissolved into air. You see her smile for the first time in years, then she walks inside and stumbles on the ground.

Guret: Axeholder!
“Aggy!”

The two of you lift Agana up, while Nordom looks on.

Agana: Just out of breath, I’m fine.

She looks you in the eye.

Agana: You should rest. The election is almost here and you want to be fresh for the campaign.

She pauses and hastily turns towards Nordom.

Agana: Both of you, that is.

Nordom: Yes, Axeholder.

Aggy might be right, you have earned a rest, but there is still so much to do.

>Meet with the Great Fleet
>Go to the Jaya Hall
>Ask to hang out with Agana
>Try to find Makana
>Talk with any character (voter’s choice.)

>>5421133
I think
>Kasi(ideally)
or
>Kaori
If we're trying to unite the tribes using the pan-poor tribe identity, it might be beneficial to talk to Kasi of the Ponni to see if they would desire to seek employment as soldiers for the island. The Ponni are a large percent of the population, and allying with them would also net us their votes and possibly the other disenfranchised tribes

Kaori would be good for similar reasons sin a private army. Plus it would make up for us ditching her before

>>5421133
>Meet with the Great Fleet

>>5421133
>Meet with the Great Fleet
Though we mean well, this IS a military coup.

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>>5422172
>>5422117
>>5422102
>>5421133

>Art: Herb Kawainui Kāne
>Several Hawaain aa'li holding spears dressed in mahiole and ʻahu ʻula. They are flanked by two pa'a-kāhili holding kāhili.

You fight back the sleep in your eyes and walk down the street to the former Hall of the Chief of Kathu Rakyat. When Agana was elected to that position and moved the Island capital to the city, she used it as a temporary Hall of Peace until enough of the new one was built. Now it houses the Island Peacekeepers and guests like the Anyatan and your fleet.

In your quarters you meet with Kaiali'i of the Ahi, your political advisor, and Nizax of the Muli, second in command of the fleet.

Kaiali'i: Captain, you look...
“Like shit, it's fine, you can say it.”
Kaiali'i: No I would never... I
Nizax: I hope the council went well.
“That’s what I’m here to find out. Kaiali'i, what’s our approval looking like

>Ahi
Safely Lono
>Illa
Lean Lono
>Nupuri
Lean Lono/Slightly Lean Lono
>Muli
Slightly Lean Norodom
>Ponni
Slightly Lean Norodom
>Taya
Slightly Lean Norodom/Lean Norodom
>Chantou
Safely Norodom

>>5422967
>The Ponni still lean Norodom
The ungrateful, traitorous, useless fucks, they only made our lives hard this entire quest.
I'm voting for Ponni genocide when we take over.

>>5422970
Wait, the Muli too after we got them the deal and their vengeance for the murders?
Appeasing the poor tribes don't work, dad and mom were right.

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>>5422967
>Art:Herb Kawainui Kāne
>Alt text: Lata, the Hawaiian god of hula and canoe building, is projected in the night sky. He holds an oar that has an image of a warrior throwing a spear at a monster. Below a crew sails in a Hawaiian canoe while fighting a large squid and sharks in the ocean.

Kaiali'i: I’ve been studying the scribe record of the council and researching amongst the tribes. Your pro-fleet stances crystalized your approval with the Ahi and your allegiance to neutrality appealed to the traditionalists in the Ilsa.

“That’s the good news. Snd the bad?”
Kaiali'i: When it came to the poor tribes, you took a mix of decisions. Your middle-way in granting Gamboa advisor rights and negotiating with the Raiders may have gone over well with the Ilsa, but the parties involved either took it neutrally or were frustrated with your .. er... Fence sitting.
“It’s okay, I need to hear this.”
Kaiali'i: Moving to bring the killer to justice was overwhelmingly popular with the poor tribes and the Ilsa, though it cost you some appeal with the Taya, that would be fine except-
Nizax: Eko’s material plan. We spent a month touring the Island showing people the wonders we are bringing them. Now they know you want to take it all back?
“But Norodom endorsed that plan too. And is openly against the poor tribes. How can she be ahead of me there!”
Nizax: We’ve been stationed in Kutha Rakyat for some time, captain. The crew, especially the members from the poorer tribes, have heard things around Neikotan. That Norodom will recognize the Eight tribe if she wins. Many outside the city recognize you as the safer wager, but Norodom’s deal with Gamboa is swaying the youth in the city.
“What do you advise?”
Kaiali'i: Return to the campaign. We have enough time for an appeal to one or two tribes. But before that, we can act right here. Kaori. Eko. You told me you made connections with both of them at the council. If we move closer to one of them, we could increase support with their tribe and get access to their skills.
“Why not both?”
Kaiali'i: Their goals conflict. You may be able to bridge them, but they’ll never campaign together
“I control Eko through Wiji. I can ally publicly with Kaori and use him in the background.”
Nizax: Captain, I’ve read what was said. I see what Eko is doing. The man will not be a servant forever. This material plan is an ambition to leave Wiji’s grasp, and thus yours. He may be your man for now, but that control is fleeting.
“But Kaori may be my best chance to regain losses with the poor tribes.”

Who do you ally with?

>Kaori
(Approval will be Nupuri:Lean Lono and Taya:Lean Nordom)
>Eko
(Approval will be Nupuri: Slightly Lean Lono and Taya: Slightly Lean Norodom)

>>5422974
>Eko
Fuck the poor tribes, they will never be happy.

>>5422977
Ok, now that I calmed down I'm changing my vote to
>Kaori
Eko is too much of a snake to be trustworthy, and if we end up needing to do coup, having the support of the masses would be more beneficial.
Also, splinting the support of the eight tribe is important for when we get the axe, and we already invested too much in the poor, if we start courting support from the rich we might need to break promises, which would reduce support from the Illa

>>5422974
>Kaori

>>5422993
Kaori
>>5422102
She probably wont like to hear about war, so let's talk to her and let her know that our goals in terms for equality. I'm hoping she sees us as the easiest way to realize her goals and puts her eggs in our basket per se

By going this route we can also exterminate the poorer tribes through assimilation

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>>5423071
>>5422995
>>5422993
>>5422974
>Art:Sudjono Abdullah
>Alt Text: A warung with several patrons sitting. Several sellers upkeep baskets of goods.While one person brings two more balanced on a pole. A large tree with red leaves hangs over them all.

“It has to be Kaori. The poor tribes are who I’ve allied. I’ll have to use my leverage over Eko for as long as I can.”
Nizax: A lot of Nakotan still call her Da’tuq Adil, an alliance could support your claim.
“That, and she could be a friend when we’re running out of those by the day. Prep the fleet to move out tomorrow. But for tonight, I’m getting a drink.”

_____
The Jaya Hall lives up to its reputation. You can hear songs of a dozen dialects in half as many languages but somehow it feels like home. You find Kaori sitting at a bench with Kasi.

Kasi. Captain.
Kaori: I’m glad you took my offer. Sit, this place has the best nipe you can get in samormosir.

She passes you a cup of warm tree sap, thick and sweet, it sticks to the back of your throat.

“Hack-hack!”
Kasi: Ha-ah. You’ll have to forgive Kaori, she doesn't drink alcohol.
“No, it's fine. I’ve always wanted to try Nupuri cuisine.”
Kaori: A benefit of this city, the tribes sharing their ways.
“That’s actually what I wanted to talk to you about.”
Kasi: Politics? Now? We’re here to relax after that bejaar council.

Their tone goes serious.

Kasi: You need to relax too. I was there with you. Out there. I know what you’re going through. When folks like us don't take time for ourselves, it doesn't go well.
“...”
Kaori: It’s fine, I can take a break. My ears need a rest from the singing anyway.
Kasi: He should have been here the other night! They could’ve woken Legba themself!
“Sorry I missed it, nice seeing you.”
___
The two of you walk around the back of the hall, the sounds from inside covering your conversation.

Kaori: So what brings you here? I assume it isn’t a romantic gesture.
“I, well no...”
Kaori: Relax, I’m joking. Kasi was right, you need to relax more. If we lose sight of joy, what are we even fighting for?
“I’m fighting so no one has to fight again.”
Kaori: A dream for the ages.
“A dream we can reach together. I want you to join me. Think of all the good we can do for The Island.”
Kaori: I already told you, I don’t seek power, I
“Help where you’re needed. I know. This is me asking for that help. If Norodom gets the ax you know The Great Peace is doomed. And even if she doesn't, we need people like you in the Hall so that we never let what happened last month happen again.”
Kaori: You don’t trust yourself.
“I don’t trust anyone. Which is why I work with allies who can check each other. To better serve them.”

You gesture towards Jaya Hall.

Kaori: So what’s your proposal?

>I name you my successor as Axeholder like Agana did Norodom.
>I declare you to be Ratu Adil, either alongside or in place of myself.
>I stand down and support you to be elected as Axeholder.
> You serve as my advisor and liaison to the poor tribes.
>Write-in

>>5423691
>I declare you to be Ratu Adil, alongside myself.
>You are the compassion and humility I lost. A split soul at birth, no doubt.

>>5423702
> You serve as my advisor and liaison to the poor tribes.
And this if she really doesn't want the unsolicited marriage proposal responsibility or still denies the title people gave her

>>5423691
>I declare you to be Ratu Adil, either alongside or in place of myself.
> You serve as my advisor and liaison to the poor tribes.
Both. We will both fulfill that role, but she will check us, and we her. We will serve the island together, us granting greater legitimacy in the eyes of the wealthy tribes and those who respect force and the Fleet, she to ensure we make decisions which show restraint and compassion toward the impoverished.

Together, we maintain order, through soft power whenever possible... So nobody need fight, against each other or us.

>>5423958
support
Might be an L because we already claimed it, but she has more legitimacy and if we phrase it right we can raise it further using ours.
>>5423726
Kaori: So what’s your proposal?
"Marriage."
For real though, a political marriage would actually make a lot of sense here for both our goals. Plus being our wife would guarantee the right to get her opinions heard.

>>5423969
We might kill Aggy. Aren't we betrothed to her?

>>5423970
Ahi Tradition among the wealthy families makes it common to marry metasiblings to each other but it's not a hard law. Aganna once had hoped to be married to a couple by it fell through. Lono has had no public courtships.

>>5424024
Still, in her current state, could she handle 'losing' another vital member of her support network?

I guess we could try to bring her in on it, if it helps...

>>5424050
Think of it less about her ‘losing’ a meta-sibling and more about bringing Kaori and her political supporters back on ours and Aggie’s side. Considering Aggi had two mothers and fathers, she’d probably be alright with it.

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>>5424687
>>5424050
>>5424024
>>5423969
>>5423702
>>5423691

>Pictured: Rie Kayano and Durante Blais-Bille. Director: Daichi Tomida
>Alt Text: Close-up of an Ainu person and a Seminole shaking hands, both wearing traditional garb.

“Serve as Ratu Adil with me. Together we can cover our weaknesses while you advise me on how best to serve *all* the people of The Island.”

Kaori laughs.

Kaori: I’m sorry, I know you’re serious but that just makes it funnier. I say I don't want power and you want me to be a messiah?
“The people already call you that, whether you want it or not. The title may as well be yours.”
Kaori: My people don't even have priests. The idea that some people are closer to the Loa is Samor nonsense. This whole divine monarch thing isn’t democracy. The moment you put on that robe a lot of The Island thought you spat on The Great Peace.
“Advise me then. If you’re so worried about the wrong person holding the Ax, who better to guard the people’s will than you?
Kaori: I can advise, but not endorse. It's up to the people if they back you or not. I’ll push you in the right direction, but what you do and how they react is outside my control.
“That’s fine with me, I need your wisdom, not your image.”
Kaori: You’re lucky The Hall of Peace is close enough to my shop, I have about four shoe orders to wrap up.”
“I wouldn’t think of depriving the world of your craft.”
_______
Current Tribal Approval Ratings
>Ahi
Safely Lono
>Illa
Lean Lono
>Nupuri
Lean Lono
>Muli
Slightly Lean Norodom
>Ponni
Slightly Lean Norodom
>Taya
Lean Norodom
>Chantou
Safely Norodom
____

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>>5424703
>Art: Bart Tyraknifesaurus
>Alt text: Map of The Island. Kutha Rakyat is surrounded by Ponni grasslands. Two roads connect it to two Taya cities, one of them crossing the Muli River which circles the middle of the Island. To the East is the Ahi Coast, to the North the Illa woods. To the far northeast is Mt Nupuri, East of that are the Chantou Gardens.

The next day, Kaori joins your impromptu cabinet alongside Nizax and Kaiali'i, who averts her eyes.
Kaiali'i: We are blessed to have you Kahuna Kaori
Kaori: Mahalo, but I’m not a priest.
Nizax: You speak Ahi?
Kaori: We’re seven tribes, but one Island, I try my best to meet people where they are.

You lift Kaiali'i’s blushing face as you welcome your new advisor.
“Then you’ll be perfect for today’s topic. Where should we campaign next?”
Kaiali'i: The Ponni, Taya, and Muli are close enough that if we campaign with them we might be able to try another tribe before the election. The Illa, Nupuri, and Chantou are far enough that if we picked one of them, it would be the last stop before the votes happen.
“Let’s take turns, what do you suggest?”
Kaiali'i: The Muli or the Ponni, Norodom has a slight lead but it's because Neikokan is split between you over her offer to the Eight tribe. Shoring support there would put us over the top.
“Nizax?”
Nizax: The council has paused the fleet’s distribution of Ebbikele. The Illa, Nupri, and Chantou haven’t received any. We should move to give them what we owe, the best campaign is doing our duty.
“Kaori?”
Kaori: You’ve spent a lot of time in Kutha Rakyat and the Ahi Coast, but if you want to be a good Axeholder, you need to be familiar with the whole Island, not just where you’re comfortable. You should go to a tribe you haven't been to or even campaign with the rest of the Taya.
Kaiali'i: Are you trying to get him killed!!!
The group is stunned by Kaiali'i’s outburst. Including herself
Kaiali'i: I’m sorry, I just, I mean...
Kaori: It’s fine, emotions are the windows to our needs. Speak your concern.
Kaiali'i: *sigh* The rest of the Taya have been hostile to the very *idea* of the Axeholder since Aganna’s second year. Lono and Norodom are fighting over the minority of Taya voting in Kutha Rakyat, the rest of them might as well not be on The Island.
Kaori: We can’t write off two-thirds of an entire tribe. Think of how it looks for The Great Peace if the same fleet Chief Zees decried dropped off the treasures of the sea right at the Empty Hall.
Nizax: From what I heard, making a Taya city the Axeholder’s capital almost restarted The Great Wars. Crossing Daunbilo could be a provocation.
Kaori: Or a way to heal.

>Which Tribe do you Campaign to next?

>>5424050
She will always be our sister and we will be there for her.
Lono already lost too many family members, and the time at sea made him understand and forgive Aggy for the accidental killing of his mom.
She was leading a multiny afterall. And multiny sink ships.

>>5424707
>The Ponni
Kasi should be over there, and if we smooth over the whole reparations deal they will support us.
Then we can go to the Taya to close it off, since we already went to the Muli.

>>5424707
>The Taya
Try Kaori's way. It's also a show of faith in our new co-Ratu Adil, and a way to keep her on-side.

>>5424727
The Ponni
Then the Taya, we are close enough to both to do at least two, we can at least tell Kaori we intent on visiting them after assessing the state of the Ponni.

If Norodom is our only obstacle, I think we might have a landslide victory here. It shouldn't be too hard to convince the others she's a party-minded and completely irresponsible.

What do the Ponni specialize in? Because if they are farmers like the Chantou but can't compete because of the sharecropper system, than we could offer to give them preferential deal with the great fleet, hall of peace and the Neikokan markets, and in exchange they should focus on growing spices, long lasting foods and moonshines, since it's these exotics goods are the favorites of the foreigners.

Also when we take the axe, we should bring some translated manifestos that our lad from revolution quest wrote and spread over the Chantou land. Then we can make a speech declaring the sharecropper system as slavery, but say we can't ban it bacause of the great peace. But also subtly imply that we won't move the peacekeepers to protect them.
I want to see Norodom's head on a pike, hoisted by her own people.
Gamboa too, but his is going to be more complicated.

>>5425626
I think they raise doompigs but OP will prob give more detail

I think your plan is solid. The Ponni are similar to nomadic plains peoples(economically sans horses). Their land probably won't be of note to us for a long long time. Plains people typically trade hide and meat for manufactured goods(like the material), plus if we gave them more grazing animals it would aid us in combat somehow.
>>5424727
We should also quickly get in contact with Kasi, as the Ponni's chosen representative would be beneficial to receive their support.

Our fleet has a lot of Ponni no? Maybe if we return a lot of them here and give the shipmembers a little something extra, it would encourage them to work with us, as we made them rich rather than the sharecropping system. Plus our crew loves us no?

>>5425626
>>5425626
>Island Journal #10: Ponni Pastoralism
For centuries the Ponni have practiced a specialized system of pastoralism. Most tribes move semi-nomadically through the grasslands with herds of Doomswine as a primary source of nutrition and raw materials. Doomswine are fed the wild cereal grains of the fields. (which Ponni culture is culturally averse to eating). Integration with wild Doomswine is a key part of this system. Tamed Doomswine are mated with wild ones and young piglets are captured from the wild and either eaten or cared for until they reach maturity.
Because open plains and wild herds of Doomswine are necessary for the Ponni way of life, the encroachment of Taya cities over the past generation has led to a slow-moving economic crisis among the Ponni. In times of war, Taya were known to deliberately exterminate entire wild herds to disrupt Ponni food and weapon supplies.

(Update coming this morning.)

>>5425905
I really appreciate the degree of thought and detail you put into your worldbuilding.

>>5425905
>which Ponni culture is culturally averse to eating
This is actually good, we can make so part of their field is dedicated to making food and booze to sell, without starving them.
And since they are semi-nomadic, they can set up a coop system where a tribe can set up to take care of the fields after they leave.

>>5426069
how would they farm crops? See the map from OP's post
>>5424707
It's the grasslands, do we get enough rain? It would probably be more economical to turn it into pastureland. Not to mention that being a agricultural laborer is totally different from knowing how to farm. I know the Taya believe they can take the land for farming, but will they succeed in stable agriculture?

Nomadic tribes also migrate because they've extended the resources of where they live, so I think it would be unlikely for a tribe to move into an area where another just left.

Instead of turning the plains to cropland, it may be more economical and less effort to better utilize the plains for raising a variety of animals. Plus it allows the Ponni to retain their traditional living, and if inter-tribal conflict is common, then we also have a supply of trained soldiers for free. Would also be a good solution to taxes, as they could volunteers as soldiers in lieu of payment and receive spoils of war as payment so they actually benefit from the system.

Since their population is so high too, if we ever control any future territory they would be good candidates as colonists as well. If they depopulate enough too, we can also take more of their land from crops if it is actually practical to farm.

OP, what crops do we grow(like what are they suited towards), and could you possibly share more about the different environments each tribe lives in? Like are the only woods on the island in Illa land?

>>5426432
They have fields
>>5425905
>Doomswine are fed the wild cereal grains of the fields.

>>5426456
Their grasslands are different from fields. Actually we're in the Cradle of Civilization Era, so maybe you're right the grasslands are possible untapped lands to farm?

>>5426069
>which Ponni culture is culturally averse to eating
I think this is because they are against agriculture in general. If so how can we convince them to farm later?

Personally I'm not a fan of trying to convince the tribe to change their lifestyle, plus we have other areas to develop to the north east as well. I think it would be beneficial to improve island transportation infrastructure as we can reduce travel times for better response.
If we can offer a wider range of people new products, people may offer something of unexpected value in return.

The Ponni working in this role as nomads would be perfect, and it would allow them who currently own/would trade the most material to offer something valuable as tribute. Plus we could make them responsible for maintenance of the road. Think of it similar to the deal we offered the Muli. Merchants get rich.

>>5426557
Problem is that northeast are is the Chantou, Norodom's people.
Traders get rich, but landowners get richer. And then force axeholders to take up shady deals and threaten the great peace.

>>5426557
But if they aren't willing too, they are welcome to not do it.
Just have to promise to not complain about the Chantou shareholders ever again

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>>5424943
>>5424874
>>5424727
>Photo: Dhritiman Mukherjee
>Alt text: Grassy hills in the Nilgiris, covered in countless kurinchi flowers.

“We’re going to the Ponni. Our ties are strong enough that we can convince them to join our cause and we’ll be close enough to campaign with the Taya next.”
Nizax: Last time I saw them, Kasi was still angry with you for claiming to be the Da’tuq Adi, are you sure it will go well?
“If we only spoke with people who liked us, it wouldn't be campaigning. Besides, Kasi is dedicated to the Ponni people. They’ll see we’re what’s best for the tribe.
Kaori: If you make your case strong enough. Kasi should be in the Southern Marutham by now, we could be there by tomorrow.
“It’s a plan then.”
Guret: Captain!

Guret marches from the horizon flanked by several Elite Guards, and Anyaten!

“What’s going on?”
Guret: Extreme orders from the Axeholder, your ears only.
“Nizax, prepare the crew and load the Ebbikele, I’ll be back tonight.”

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>>5426582
>Metallurgy:Adambomb
>alt text: A copper knife with a tiger maple handle sitting on a rabbit pelt alongside copper beads and spirals.

Agana: Norodom tried to kill me.
“What?! How?”
Agana: Or at least incapacitate me until the election.

She walks to the broken jar you saw here, in her room, the other night.

Agana: This was over twice my normal strength. She swore to uphold any laws I passed after the council. If I wasn’t able to make any laws, she would be free to do as she pleased.
“Where is she now?”
Agana: Campaigning with the Illa, probably to avoid consequences until the election.
“We have to do something.”
Agana: We don’t have enough evidence and pushing the matter could start a civil war, we’ll have to beat her with votes.
“I’ve got that under control. Kaori joined us and we’re moving to speak with the Ponni. Between her and the Ebbikele...”
Agana: You can’t bring it to them. Or anyone else.
“Why not?”
Agana: You saw what it can do out there. It’s the most powerful weapon in human history. We can’t pass it around The Island. If someone like Norodom, or Zees, or our parents got it, the Great Wars could start all over again.
“It’s the Treasure of the Seas. It's what you promised everyone on The Island the fleet was for. It’s your DREAM.

Agana looks out the window and sighs. She speaks without turning.

Agana: Sometimes we have to wake up. The tribes will still benefit from the Ebbikele. Thank’s to it, no one will have to pay another tribute again. And the new Fleet built with it will push The Great Peace for generations.

She turns to face you.

Agana: But the material itself has to be contained. Controlled.
“Distributing the Ebbikele is the final duty of The Great Fleet, of me.”
Agana: They’ll just have to give it back to pay next year’s tribute anyway. Why drop it off then waste time and effort collecting it again?
“And people won’t notice?”
“The tribes are growing closer but The Island is still large. No one knows the total amount that exists except me, you, the Anyaten, and a few members of the fleet. It will take a while before people will catch on.
“And by then, the Axeholder can claim it for the tribute.”
Agana: Take the Ebbikele here, where it’s safest. For it, and for The Island. When you win the election you can send the fleet for more.
“It’s meant to help the Island.”
Agana: You can’t help The Island if it tears itself apart.”

>Tell Agana you’ll stop passing out the Ebbikele.
>Tell Agana you will keep passing out the Ebbikele.
(Note: This is just what you are SAYING to Agana. Your actions later will be a different vote.)

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>>5426069
>>5426432
>Photo:Thalavaipandi.
>Alt text: Banana plantation in southern Tamil Nadu grown on grasslands.

(This wanna gonna be an Island Journal, but I think its a bit loose so it works as a Q and A)

The Ponni don't have an aversion to agriculture, they have a cultural taboo/aversion to eating cereal grains. (A cultural materialist would probably argue the taboo stems from them not wanting to compete with the animal they built their culture around for food.) The Ahi DO have a cultural aversion to plant farming. "Ahi do not till" is a saying rooted in their distaste for the sedentary and hierarchal labor system used by the Taya and Chantou. (Though they do practice basic oyster farming)

The Grasslands themselves are actually quite useful for farming plants, the origin of the Taya cities actually are rooted in claiming Grassland to use as grain farms. The cities taking Ponnni land to use for farms to feed their growth was the primary driver for most Ponni-Taya conflicts.

>>5426585
>Tell Agana you will keep passing out the Ebbikele.
>Agana, if I don't distribute, if I go back on the word of the Fleet, I'm going to lose support. Norodom will win the election.
>And if that happens, than the Great Wars starting again is a certainty rather than possibility.

>>5426596
Ok, so my plan is good, and they can still be traders because it's offering a trade good for them

>>5426600
>support
yah I'm down now, that makes sense

>>5426585
>Tell Agana you will keep passing out the Ebbikele.

What >>5426597 said. Damned if we do, damned if we don't. At least this way, we have a chance to come out of it the moral (and electoral) victor... And then, if need be, tamp down on the problems with force and legitimacy.

Sorry, Aggy.

>>5426585
>Aggy, why don’t you pass out the Ebbikele?
Maybe a break from power politics and giving back to the people will do her some good. Really serve the people directly, and see the impact of her efforts come to fruition.

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>>5426858
>>5426639
>>5426597
>>5426596

>Art:Herb Kawainui Kāne
>Alt text: The Hawaiian volcano goddess Pele, wearing a flower crown. Her flowing hair forms an erupting volcano.


“I’m sorry, I have to do it. If I betray the word of The Great Fleet, I lose the election and Norodom wins anyway. I know it’s scary but we have to take the risk. Why don’t you deal it out, and see your dream in action instead of sitting here drowning in politics?”

Agana looks at you like she wants to explode, but instead of a torrent of rage, she looks you in the eye and calmly gives you something a thousand times more terrifying.

Agana: I spent the last three years dodging backstabbers. I’m not going to hand them knives. As Axeholder of The Island, in the name of The Great Peace and by the power granted by The People and Tribes it serves, I ORDER you, Lono of the Ahi, Captain of The Great Fleet, to keep all Ebbikele under your control inside the borders of Kutha Rakyat.

>Agree to keep the Ebbikele in the city, breaking your oath to The Island.
>Refuse a direct order from the Axeholder and prepare for consequences.

>>5426965
>Refuse a direct order from the Axeholder and prepare for consequences.
>You need to cut down on the drink Aggy

>>5426971
Unless the consequences would be her going off the deep end and preparing to break the great peace herself.
In which case it's better to do it while we are the ones with the bronze so we can be sure to be the winners.
Then we never have to deal with all this election and campaigning again, this flawed democracy has held back the Island and the quest way to much in my opinion, stopping things from getting done to curry favor.

>>5426965
>Democracy
>Expect high stability
It’s practically a meme at this point.

Does anyone even know how to forage the damn Ebbikele? Like, hot damn, all you really need is control of the forging knowledge, having just the metal is just having a really tough, shiny rock, right?

>>5426995
I refuse to give up on the Great Peace, so I’ll support the option that best keeps it.

>>5427007
I think the Great Peace is going to get shaken up no matter what we do here.
If we do give the material, she is probably going to go mad and stop us somehow. Probably by ordering our arrest or removing us as the Captain.
If we don't, we are breaking our vow and we are probably losing the election since the Illya takes those seriously and Norodom is campaigning there.

>>5427001
>>5426995
Most of the Ebbikele on The Island is already in the form of weapons.
The people on The Island don't know how to make it from scratch but it's pliable enough that it is relatively easy to rework. For example, breaking the tip of an arrow off and then pounding it into a fishhook shape with a rockhammer.

Your feedback is noted in the quest being too heavy on politicking. The next installment will be the big return to the Anyaten peninsula, so expect that one to be more action driven.

>>5427012
The Great Peace >> Aggy
She's going against the Prime Directive! Are we sure we want to do this? She seems serious, marriage is def off the table now.
>this flawed democracy has held back the Island
Yes, this society has no fucking order, people acting crazy and can't get along. This won't be pretty and will delay the quest more, and we can also just become more of a tyrant after we get voted in.
I also agree the Great Peace is going to be broken, but it's probably going to be engineering by the Chontou or Taya. Going against Agana just weakens our legitimacy.

We can't go into full out war right now, but maybe we can turn a blind eye to the Ponni members of our fleet passing out Ebbikele "without our knowledge". The Ebbikele is already out anyway so it's not like its provable that we did it.

>>5427207
I'm worried that her plan on what to do after we hold back the bronze is do a coup against Norodom after she wins.
And handing out the bronze is basically arming all of these savages that hate each other super weapons, after having weakened the position of axeholder.
I have the feeling the next installment of the island is going to be CivilWarQuest, and we are just choosing the flavor.
Actually, let me try to get the shadowrunning out
>>5426965
>Aggy, didn't you listen to me? If I break my oath, Norodom is getting the axe. Which means she is going to be the one with all the Ebbikele once she also ORDERS me to hand it over. You are choosing between handing knives to your backstabbers, or disarming yourselves and give all the knives in the island to them!
>Unless you want one of us to lead a coup against the elected Axeholder once that happens, to be the one to kill the Great Peace. Is this what you want Aggy? Tell me, I'm your metabrother.

>>5427259
How well do people know we can melt the Ebbikele to change its shape? What if we make it into the shape of something else besides weapons before we hand it out?

It's not like the weapons are so amazing that murder will become more common, people were waging war before bronze was commonplace.

I do support your message, but if we can hammer the metal into not as dangerous objects let's do it. I'd also not rather splinter the factions in a possible Civil War further

>>5426965
>Refuse a direct order from the Axeholder and prepare for consequences.

>>5426995
>>5427179
I LIKE the politics!

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>>5427444
>>5427440
>>5427259
>>5427007

>art: Brook Kapukuniahi Parker
>alt text: Imaikalani of Kau wearing a Mahiole, surrounded by Hawaiian warriors. They hold bundles of spears

“I can’t do it. Morals aside, the moment I lose support for breaking the oath, Norodom gets elected and we’re guaranteed to be doomed. I know what you’re feeling. This Island and its people are chaotic and prone to conflict, and we swim in a sea of opposing interests. But a generation ago these people were killing each other. It’s going to take time and effort to work past that, and we do it with dreams like yours. Where The Island working together brings everyone something that couldn't happen before. Is the Ebbikele a risk outside our hands? Yes. But that risk is a thousand times better than the bloodshed from before. I’m not giving weapons to your enemies, I’m serving our people.”

You walk towards her and rest a hand on her shoulder.

“Like my metasister before me.”

She stares at you like she’s looking at the bottom of the sea. Her brow tenses and she screams.

Agana: Ah! Damn it you’re right.

She slumps into her chair.

Agana: You have to be careful Lono. This job, and the pressures it puts on you, can push your mind to a bad place. Every day I feel more of Mama Koa inside me.

You lean closer.

“We aren’t them. Our parents came up in a world of blood and death. The only Peace they could imagine was one built on threats and control. We can be something better. We can *do* something better.”

You raise her up and she gives a small smile.

Agana: Go to the Ponni, speak your truth, and *win* this election. And that’s an order.

You smile back.

“Guess I can't refuse, Axeholder.”

{You have moved closer to DEMOCRACY.}
____
The nectar from the wild shrubs fills your nose as the grass crunches beneath your feet. People think the Ponni are savages but you know from your time in the fleet how clever they are. The whole of the Centre Grasses gently nudged and shifted by migrations all to serve people and their Doomswine. Incredible.

Aki: Incredible.
“You lead a team that built much of the Fleet, only right you see the fruits of your labor.”

Chief Aki stands among several Ponni tribals, each holding their Ebbikele weapons with ferocious inquisitiveness.

Aki: I left my home because my family had too many mouths to feed, with this I doubt we’ll go hungry again.
Kaori: And there can be more where that came from. The Great Fleet can be a permanent institution. More Ebbikele, enough to pay your tribute *and* improve your lives is on the horizon.
Aki: I have faith in your Captain, Alvar, but we know he agreed to the plan to make the Ebbikele the only form of tribute.
Kaori: Thank you kizhar, but I’m no Alvar, just someone here to help. As for the Captain-

She turns so you can speak for yourself.

>Write-in

>>5427450
It's the start of something new. The Ebbikele can change hands for all sorts of things. You can freely choose the means by which you earn it from those that have it... Or join the Fleet to obtain it from across the sea.

And if you have none, no tribute at ALL shall be demanded.

>>5427450
>I Have two ideas on how to help the Ponni, to not only be able to pay it's tribute, but to possibly prosper.
>The first is a deal similar I made with the Muli: Become the caretakers of the roads and traders of the inland. It should allow to herd the doomswine all over the island, but coastal and river trade is the heart of our people, so I'm unsure how much the Ponni could benefit from it.
>The others is a bit of a risk of unbalancing your ways if done incorrectly, but has the greatest chance for profit for both of us. The foreigners, the goods the desire the most is exotic foods and drink. If the Ponni were to reserve a larger part of the fields to cultivate grain, and then process into long lasting food and drink, then we would have plenty of trade goods to adquire more Ebbikele. The great fleet and hall of peace will buy your products at market price before anyone else, and so too the Ponni will trade these goods with the government first.
Just remember to not say we will always buy everything, so they don't overproduce and we get obligated to buy too much

>>5427453
Let's def say this, representatives have all agreed to this, and by repeating it, we emphasize as Axeholder we will uphold it.
>>5427467
This is great too, because we actively want to uplift the Ponni rather than just utilize them. AND we give them 2 different options if they don't like 1.

I just want to add one thing to this:
>And if you have none, no tribute by land or labor at ALL shall be demanded.

Hopefully the Ponni jump at the chance to reverse their roles with tribes like the Chontou, Taya, and Ahi.

>>5427467
Oh, and make it very clear that we don't want them to eat the grain, since it's taboo, but to trade it away.

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>>5427789
>>5427625
>>5427453

>Photo: L. Shyamal
>Alt Text: Sholas and grassland in the Brahmagiris, Coorg. Grassy hills are bordered by wooded valleys.

“The Ebbikele is the start of something new. People from the other tribes will gladly pay for it to you in exchange for your services. I promised the Muli the task to guard their sacred waters in lieu of labor tribute. Now, as Axeholdrr I will hire them with the Hall of Peace’s stores and pay them in this treasure. I can do the same for the Ponni. You could become the caretakers of the roads and traders of the inland. You can even herd doomswine all over the Island. Or you could rent, now give up, portions of your land. The foreigners are hungry for luxuries, people would pay much for the right to grow grain in fields under your domain. Or you can join the fleet and get it directly from the source. In each case, every person has free control to earn Ebbikele in any way they choose. And even if you don’t you’re still owed a portion from The Fleet.”
Aki: And the poor amongst us, will they be forced to labor to pay this tribute?
Lono: The tribute is proportionate. Each community will pay a fraction of the Ebbikele it has. If it has none, you won’t have to pay.

The Ponni talk amongst themselves, and Kasi looks on with acceptance on their face.
Aki: The people of the Southern Marutham trust you, for now. You can expect our votes in the election to come.

>Ponni Approval +1

Current Tribal Approval Ratings
>Ahi
Safely Lono
>Illa
Lean Lono
>Nupuri
Lean Lono
>Ponni
Tossup
>Muli
Slightly Lean Norodom
>Taya
Lean Norodom
>Chantou
Safely Norodom
____
“What do you think, old friend?”
Kasi: The tribe is still split. Some will see employment, and renting in exchange for Ebbikele as the path to liberation. Others in Neikotan see the Eighth Tribe as a way to get their freedom on this Island.

Kais stares into your eyes.
Kasi: As long as you wear that crown, I will never join you, but I recognize when you’re doing good. I’m meeting with the leaders of the raider groups at the end of the week. I want to give you the opportunity to speak with them.

If you stay longer to speak with the raiders, you won’t have time to campaign with the Taya. If you go straight to the Taya you give up the chance to boost your approval with the Ponni any further before the election.

>Stay to Speak with the Ponni Raiders. (Locks your approval with the Taya at current value.)
>Go to the Taya. (Locks your approval with Ponni at current value.)

>>5428448
>>Stay to Speak with the Ponni Raiders. (Locks your approval with the Taya at current value.)
Unless we have a big idea on how to completely flip the Taya over without losing any Ponni support, this is the only way to win.

>>5428448
>Go to the Taya. (Locks your approval with Ponni at current value.)
The Ponni can go fuck themselves.

>>5428457
support

I'm split, I think visiting the Taya would help with the Ponni as well because the ones that don't support us are the ones of the Eight Tribe in Taya land. But if our approval is locked in, then we should really stick with the Ponni otherwise we run the risk of losing

If we can talk to the Raiders, maybe we can conscript them as a military or make some kind of tournament of combat if they want to fight that would help our goals.

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>>5428857
>>5428850
>>5428457
>Food: FOR EVER BOYS
>Alt text: A plate of fried pork belly surrounded by onions, bay leaf, and peppercorns.


“You honor me, Kasi. You may no longer be in the fleet, but we’ll always be crew.”

The week proves to be some of that rest Kasi recommended to you. You and your team stayed in the Southern Marutham, passing out Ebbikele to the passing tribes and enjoying Ponni hospitality. There may be a day when you’re tired of doompork but it hasn't come yet. You’ve already seen the Ebbikele used in real-time. The ends of swords twisted off to become cooking knives. Arrowheads bent into fasteners for bags. The same substance that caused so much pain, bringing so much joy. Perhaps there is a new way to do things on The Island.

>Write in what you will say to the Raiders when you get here. They will be assessed for tribal approval ratings and you may vote on them in real-time.

>>5429390
Well, the only thing I can think of to talk if the raiders is to explain that the reparations we asked was meant to be merely a symbolic act, hence why Kasi is the one collecting it and why it wasn't a heavy punishment. It was not meant to appease the merchant, to uphold the promise of the great peace, even if we sympathize with their suffering. We faced starvation during the exploration, and had the temptation to raid other for food.
What do we know of the raiders, and how are they compared to the regular Ponni?

>>5429390
I, personally, not as the Captain of the Great Fleet, not as a future Axeholder candidate, not as the Ratu Adil, but as a Man of the Island, have come before you time and time again to offer you help and compromise and what have the Ponni done? Betrayed me after I looked after one of your own under the Great Fleet, backstabbed me after promising pardoned transgressions against the law, mocked the gifts of the Ebbikele that so many perished to obtain, and spit in my face after talks to put to right what happened during the uprising caused by your own people of the Plains.

I promise you this. Once I become Axeholder, I will put every last one of you Ponni scum in chains, burn your fields as you watch, force you to work under the other tribes, desecrate your loved ones, take all the treasures you hold dear, take my huge, throbbing underpart out and relieve myself upon the graves of your ancestors, and only then, when you are beaten in mind, body, and spirit, will I permit you to die.

This, I promise you, as the future Axeholder.


Fuck you faggots for placating and kowtowing to these niggers time and time again.

>>5429392
>Island Journal #11: The Ponni Raiders
"Ponni Raider" is a term given to any of several groups of Ponni warrior groups that specialize in hit-and-run tactics and martial arts.

The first Ponni Raiders emerged in prehistory when the proto-Taya developed seditaray agriculture and began to claim grasslands for use in farming. This lead to a shortage of land to raise doomswine with the cascading effect of localized famines.

To adapt, Ponni adapted pastoral tools as weapons and took advantage of their knowledge of the Centre Grasses to move from location to location, destroying Taya settlements and taking food (and latter, barterable reasoruces) to offset losses of other food source.

The Ponni Raiders would become a symbol of Ponni culture with many legends of their alleged mystic prowess.

By the time of The Great Wars the raiders were feared irregular combatants. Rivals to the Taya would often patronize them with resources to take advantage of their rivalry.

When the Island Unified, the heyday of the Ponni Raiders had long since passed. The Great Wars had devasted the Ponni economically leading to a slow dissipation of available human resources to form raider bands.

With Kutha Rakyat was made The Island's capital, many Ponni youth were part of the labor tribute to build up the city and its trade routes. A core of this disenfranchised group would reject the labor tribute and form new raiders in the image of the legends of old.

>>5429390
>>5429442
Yeah I hate how we have to suck up to them, but it's better see them as a potential asset, than something to be removed. I also don't see the benefit in insulting them to their face when we need their votes in the next election. Ideally in the future, they won't need to raid.
>>5429392
Support
Great statement. We sympathize with them. I would add that we faced difficulties in our prejudice, but now view the Ponni as loyal, valuable members of our crew. Personally, if they are devoted to a more "violent" lifestyle, we should say that their efforts are more valued against our enemies, rather than people that recognize their prowess.

I say we should ask the Ponni raiders what they want for their warbands:
1. If they want to fight, offer them roles in our military
2. If they don't offer them roles as merchants

>>5429442
You're such a salty shit, it's comical. I'm so glad the vote went in ways that make you, in particular, upset.

>>5429392
Supporting this one...

>>5429537
With these addendum and military recruitment overtures.

>>5429390
Thanks for the cultural insights, QM.

Doing one assessment for the combined suggestions

>Offering the Raiders our sympathies and employment

Ponni+1

>>5429537
I'll support this.
If the other Ponni take up being merchant or roadsman, they are going to need watchmen.
A group specialized in gong fast might be a good one.
And if they don't, having skirmisher for the peacekeeprs, or scouts in the great fleet is useful.

>>5429392
Also, it was "but to uphold the great peace"
I think I deleted the but while rewriting

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>>5429686
>>5429592
>>5429537
>>5429390

>Art:Shakthi Thevar
>Alt text: Rani Velu Nachiya stands between the Marudhu brothers. They wear fierce expressions.

It is midday but the winds blow cool. You stand in a clearing alongside Kaori and Nizax while Kasi walks from the horizon with a band of Ponni warriors.

Kasi: Captain Lono of the Great Fleet, I present Amit, Puja, and Uma of the Ponni.
Uma: Kasi told us you wanted to speak to us. You’ve earned that much, Captain.
“Thank you. But I stand here not as a Captain or a candidate but as a person. Someone who learned at sea what hardship and hunger do to a person. I know some on this Island see you as savages, but this is untrue. All of us live and breathe and bleed as equals and it is our duty to each other to let each of us pursue our happiness in peace.
Amit: And yet you demand us to pay reparations to those who plundered our land and people?
“A symbolic act, meant to avoid heavier punishment, and to be collected by a trusted ally.”

You nod to Kasi.

“The repayments aren’t for the merchants, but for The Great Peace, that protects us all.”
Amit: What good is peace when people are forced to stalk the roads where their ancestors once lived with the land? When they feed off the pickings of a merchant’s bag rather than the bounty of the Loa? When their choices are to toil in the mud stained with the blood of their tribe or risk their lives just to get by? What peace is that, Captain?
“The current way is flawed, which is why I’m here to welcome tomorrow.”

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>>5429944
>Photo:幽灵巴尼, Bronzeworking: Unknown
>Alt-text: Bronze Ancient Chinese wampum shells coated in “gold lead.”

You pull out a piece of Ebbikele, shaped in the image of a cowry, and let it shine in the sun.

“This is what working together gets us. The Great Fleet provides its treasure for all of The Loa’s children. Warriors, scouts, whatever life you see for yourself, you can make a living in it. The Fleet alone will offer much employment, and the other Tribes will provide bounty, not bloodshed in exchange for the goods and work you *freely* offer. If you are warriors, be warriors against The Island’s common enemies If you roam the fields, see the fruits of your effort feed your loved ones many times over.”
Uma: You’re a good salesman, but you can’t deliver unless you win the ax.
“Then help me win it. So that I can see our dreams fulfilled. And if we fall short, as long as I am Captain, as long as I am Ratu Adil, as long as I am *Lono*, my life and resources will be dedicated towards The People.”
Amit: You speak honey, and bait outstretched hand.
Uma: Even if we wanted to pay back the merchants, we have nowhere near the wealth the Taya would demand. Most of what was taken was eaten or traded for food.
Nizax: The Ponni portion of the Ebbikele is sizable. The merchants are sure to accept it as payment.
Amit: The wealth of those merchants was built on the suffering of the defenseless. Better it feed starving children than line the pockets of luxury.
Nizax: The Captain swore to uphold Agana’s orders. Repayment must be made.
Puja: Actually. I’ve had time to read the Scribe’s record. You swore that if you won the Ax, you would keep in force the laws and agreement of your kin. She agreed to call for peace and repayment. That call has been made. You have no further obligations.
Nizax: And how many will see it that way?
Uma: You told us this miracle material is the future. It’s not unreasonable that we wouldn’t want to give away what little we have left after the tribute.
Kaori: If I could have a word with the Captain in private.

You step aside.

“It’s been like this since I got back. Every action I make to appease one group angers another.”
Kaori: Then stop thinking about appeasement and start thinking about right and wrong.
“I don’t know. Since I became Captain I’ve been of many minds. What do you recommend.”
Kaori: The Merchants demand payment, they don’t care about who from. And The Ponni are poor. Between your family’s wealth, your portion of the Ebbikele, and The Hall of Peace, the reparations can be paid and then some.


>Demand the raiders pay with Ebbikele
Nupuri-1, Muli-1, Illa+1, Ponni+1, Chantou+1
>Pay the reparations yourself
Ahi-1, Chantou-1, Nupuri+1, Muli+1, Ponni+2
>Let them avoid payment
Illa-1, Chantou-1, Nupuri+1, Muli+1, Ponni +2
>Write-in