[Forum Game] Agorath and the Age of Crowns

[Galren]

A Warm Welcome
A joint IC between BlackBishop and Galren.
​

Spoiler: Summary

Troubled with worries, Mus'ab al-Sayed isn't pleased at what he hears or sees when he is welcomed by Zaahir Rostani.

Starring ...

BlackBishop as Mus'ab al-Sayed and Nasir Ayyubid.
Galren as Zaahir Rostani.

In the main camp of the Herasnian army, Zaahir Rostani was waiting in his private tent in order to receive his hostage. It had been about five days since the conference, and Zaahir had sent his son Shakur for the hostage exchange with Mutikabir. Lord Arshad was sending Mus’ab al-Sayed, one of the lords of Mutikabir. Besides the guards, Nasir Ayyubid was also present. Zaahir had invited Nasir because he thought that Mus’ab al-Sayed would want to meet Nasir.

The entrance to the tent was lifted up, and Mus’ab al-Sayed, in restraints, entered the tent flanked by a pair of guards.The Mutikabir lord appeared disheveled, his typically well groomed beard and mustache wild and unkempt, his eyes tired and baggy, and a frown frozen upon his lips.

“Guards, take the restraints of Lord Sayed and leave us,” Zaahir commanded.

The guards complied with the order, then left the tent, leaving only Zaahir, Nasir, and Mus’ab.

Zaahir continued to speak. “I apologize for the restraints, Lord Sayed. I wouldn’t want to raise Lord Arshad’s suspicions if I was too comfortable with transporting you.”

“I had begun to wonder if I had betrayed your trust, led through the desert in binds like a dog!” Sayed snapped, appearing none too happy with how he was brought to camp.

“I think my guards may have treated you too roughly for my liking,” Zaahir conceded. “I did not tell them that you have informed me of information regarding the state of Mutikabir.” Zaahir thought a bit before continuing. “I also apologize for not replying to your message. After Lord Bashk was caught with Nasir’s letter, I became more cautious with sending letters into Mutikabir.”

“It is all for naught anyway,” Sayed growled. “Arshad has guessed at our closeness anyway. Have you not given thought as to why he was so quick to offer me as a hostage?”

“He wanted to get rid of you,” Zaahir sighed. “I thought you crossed a line with him back at the conference when he apologized to Emir Salah because of you.”

“Not the first of my many offences against Arshad,” Sayed returned, rubbing his wrists. “Now I have learned he has given my son the [ITALICS]honour[/ITALICS] of leading the reserve force into Vahamil. Given as a hostage, my life is forfeit, and my son sent to die upon the Steppes! He merely needs to sway his hand, and my family falls!”

“You are not very happy with the negotiations at the council, then?” Zaahir asked.

Sayed snorted. “How could I be? Every day I am here my family is vulnerable, and he has your son! Arshad doesn’t care if I live or die, so what’s stopping him from moving against you? Tell me you have a plan to deal with Arshad.”

“Many of the nomads and Tirath have already sided with me against Arshad,” Zaahir explained. “I believe what is stopping Arshad from moving against me is the risk of breaking the peace that was negotiated and possibly turning Shiek and Damasiz against him. I understand that Shiek may stay neutral even if Arshad breaks the peace, but Emir Fatumid and Lord Arshad didn’t get along at the council.”

“And what happens if your armies are decimated in the Steppes?” Sayed pressed, clearly agitated. “What good does that do my family, hmm? I tell you we cannot rely on Arshad’s word.”

“Unless if Shiek feels like opposing Lord Arshad, it wouldn’t do us any good,” Zaahir agreed.

Nasir Ayyubid stepped forward. “Perhaps there is a way we can enflame tensions between Mutikabir and Damasiz.” He was clad in simple robes, looking the part of an inconspicuous advisor. His voice was shaky and unsure, the young man yet to come into his own, and by all appearances doubtful of the responsibility thrust upon him.

Zaahir put his hand to his head as he realized what he forgotten and quickly spoke to correct that. “I apologize for not introducing you earlier, but Lord Sayed seemed too depressed. Lord Sayed, this is Nasir Ayyubid, the claimant to the throne I, as well as my father, have been supporting.”

Sayed looked the young man up and down doubtfully. “So you are the cause of the predicament we find ourselves. I certainly hope the risks we have taken are worth that crown you aim to place upon your head.”

Nasir steeled his voice. “The Desert Crown is mine by right. You are men of honour, and your pains are mine. Together we will stop Arshad and bring peace to Hroniden.”

“That remains to be seen,” Sayed frowned.

“I understand that you are not pleased after all that occured to see our fates hang on this young man,” Zaahir empathized. “Admittedly I would have waited myself, but that is not what fate has decided.” He then turned to Nasir and prompted, “Continue with your idea.”

Nasir buckled, returning to the unsure young man. “Well, that’s it really. I haven’t really thought it out more than that.”

“Perfect.” Sayed laughed dryly.

Zaahir sighed, then spoke. “If there is an opportunity in the future to drive a wedge between Arshad and Emir Fatumid, we will exploit it.”

“I will not let the safety of my family rest on ifs,” Sayed objected. “I will call in some favours. I still have friends in Mutikabir not yet under Arshad’s yoke. Perhaps I can arrange something that will compel action from Fatumid and see Arshad’s support dwindle… Shah Rostani, I trust you will relay to your court that I am to be given the freedom of Almeria to avoid further… unpleasantness?”

“Do you mean that you wish to travel to Almeria?,” Zaahir asked. “If so, yes. You have been under far too much stress these past few days.”

“By the Light I’m not about to be dragged about the Wilds from camp to camp. I’ve seen more then my share of such nonsense in my youth! I will be able to do much more good from your palace, Shah Rostani.”

“That makes two of us then,” Zaahir agreed, a little bit amused at the similarities between himself and Lord Sayed. “Except I cannot stay at the palace.”

Sayed waved a dismissive hand. “Yes, fine. So long as I can carry out my business unimpeded. Arshad thinks he can so easily push me aside. Well I intend to prove him very wrong. Very wrong, indeed. The House of Sayed will not fall so easily!”

“You have my full support in your endeavors, Lord Sayed,” Zaahir assured, earning a sigh of relief from the Mutikabiri lord.

Zaahir quickly wrote something on a piece of parchment and handed it to Lord Sayed. “If the court asks for proof that I give you permission to travel to Almeria, hand them this order.”

“Very good. I ask also, as my friend and ally, Shah Rostani, you do everything in your power to ensure my son is safe. I know much will be beyond you, I’m not ignorant in the ways of war, but please, see that he and his men are not put in harm’s way needlessly.”

“I will certainly try,” Zaahir answered. “After all, he is leading the reserve, not on the front lines. And perhaps Paladin Duncan will agree with me on that.”

“Perhaps I can be of some help as well,” chimed in Nasir. “I have made some friends in Mutikabir that could be of use. I’d much rather avoid a Birchian axe if at all possible as well.”

Zaahir was rubbing his temples at Nasir’s suggestion. Leave him in Almeria? He did have his connections, but both Mus’ab and Nasir would basically be defenseless. After thinking about it for a bit, Zaahir gave his answer. “You can assist Lord Sayed, Nasir.”

“Very good then,” said Sayed, the shadow of a smile on his lips. “By the grace of Light, we will prevail. If there is nothing else, I should be on my way. I’d like to put as much distance as I can between myself and Mutikabir by nightfall.”

“Go ahead. I have nothing else to address,” Zaahir concluded. “You can go as well Nasir.”

“Come, my liege,” Sayed said, his mood now improved. “I have some fine arak that will speed us to Almeria.” Nasir smiled, following Sayed out of the tent.

Zaahir, left in the tent, couldn't help but chuckle to himself. He really thought that meeting Sayed would be easier than saying goodbye to his son. That truce, meant to give Zaahir some security, was leaving him more worried about his position compared to before the conference.

 

[BlackBishop]

King Varian's army marching north across Saxland into Norseland

The Kingsmoot
A SneakyBishop Joint
with a special appearance by Pluto
​

The sturdy gates of the Iron Hall, the formidable castle that serves as the bastion of Norse strength in the southlands as well as the former seat of Bethod the Bloodless, Petty King of Stronghelm.

The banners of Bloodless had since been struck from the parapets of the high wall, replaced by dead men, hung over the wall to be feasted upon by the carrion, Presumably men who supported the queen, for news had already traveled fast that she lay dead, and the thanes and jarls formerly loyal to Bethod now held a moot to determine who would succeed the former king.

As the party arrived, Varian flanked by his royal guard and a few advisers, all on horseback, the King could not help but comment on the charming appearance of the castle as they approached the gates, clad in steel and fur as Varian sighed, wondering what exactly it was his sister saw in this place.

Valria, riding next to him, looked over, face pale from the sight of the dead men. “It is...rather gruesome, isn’t it?” She asked softly, wishing she had opted for a heavy cloak over her armor.

A horn sounded from the depths of the keep, resonating out in a deep tone that sent the scavenging birds to flight, rotting flesh staining their beaks and bodies pink. The gate lurched open, the hinges screeching as men heaved from within, and a lone figure stepped out, clad in a shirt of steel rings, and furs draped around his shoulder. His eyes were a bright amber, and his face nearly mournful beneath a black beard flecked with grey.

The man stepped before the king’s party, exchanging cool glances among each in turn. “Welcome to Stronghelm, my lords. I am Jarl Thorfast of Vjor, and I regret to say the hospitality of this hall has lessened of late, but I shall receive you here, and know your purpose.”

Varian edged his horse forward as he looked down towards the Jarl, “I believe you were invited into the hall to be received back in Bethod’s reign.” Varian remarked, as he looked up at the corpses once more. “I am here for the Kingsmoot, just like you and all the rest.”

Thorfast chuckled, crossing his arms in front of his chest. “And by what right do you propose entry to the Kingsmoot?”

Varian smirked, “About a year ago Bethod ceded a very large area of your Kingdom to me. Now I claim that part is now a part of the Kingdom of Ecclestius, but all the nobility up here says it belongs to Stronghelm, and that the treaty was tyrannical. Now I believe everyone who holds land in your kingdom by law is allowed to stake his claim. So either I am allowed to enter, or you admit that half of your kingdom is now belonging to Ecclestius.” Varian shrugged, “Personally I would be wary about going in to claim a Crown, and at the same time telling them that you either do not respect the law, or you have given up half of their estates before you even became King. But well, that is just me.”

The smug smile of the jarl faded quickly. “Bethod the Bloodless,” he spat. “Bethod the bloody fool! I’ll warn you Southron king, you will find no friends in this hall. There is no love left for our dead king, nor his weak groveling to your bootstraps!” The flushed man took a breath to calm himself, taking a step toward the king’s party, a crooked eye on the sovereign. “You seek to claim Stronghelm, is that it?”

Varian tilted his head slightly to the side, “You almost seem surprised, it's a vast.. Kingdom, and it has a strong position over the rest of this frozen place. That and my army needs a place for summer camp, they are growing tired of lying in tents.”

Thorfast stood quietly for a moment, contemplating what to do next. Finally he spat. “By all means, southron king, follow me.”

The Jarl barked orders to open the gate, and led the king’s party through the muddy courtyard and into the main keep of the castle. Inside, a great hearth ran the length of the room and blazed brightly with boar and piglets roasted on spits above it. The chamber was nearly full with thanes and jarls and their retainers, all of whom protested loudly at the sight of the king.

“What business does Ecclestius has at the Kingsmoot!” Roared a large man with an unsightly scar running down the middle of his face.

“Friends of Southron dandies now, Thorfast?!” Mocked one with fiery red hair.

Thorfast held up a calming hand. “King Bethod, whom you decry as a great king Jarl Torfi, ceded the southlands to King Varian, as such his presence here is his by right, lest you cede that the disputed lands are indeed one with Ecclestius?” Thorfast glared at the red haired man for a moment. “I thought not. Speak, King Varian. Plead your case.”

Varian nodded to Thorfast as he took a step forward, slowly removing his gloves as he considered his words. “I am here to claim this kingdom, my reasons for this are simple, I am the strongest candidate and none of you can match me, there is no propor opposition and should there be then it would result in disaster for all currently sitting in this room. I will make no great speech, no fancy words to enchant you or great statements, simply that for all you attempts none of you have amount this.. Jarldom, to any feat for the last twenty years. I have heard you all value strength, let us see if the rumours speak the truth.”

The room was silent for a moment, save for the sound of wood snapping as it was consumed in hearth-fire. At last, one stood forward. The large scarred man. “Aesbiorn is my name, southron king… It is true that the Norse honour strength, but make no mistake, to lie down and grovel at your feet is to dishonour ourselves. Bethod gave you land. He allowed his own thanes be murdered without seeking justice, and sent us on a fool’s errand in Ethelbor for his own vanity. He is dead and we mourn him not. Should you seek to learn of our value of strength you will find out soon enough. For if you seek to rule us, you will have to fight us!” The room roared their affirmation of Aesbiorn’s words.

“Aesbiorn.” Varian said taking another step forward. “If you will allow me to be so familiar that is.” The King looked towards the ground before back up at the man, “It is true, I do not doubt you, many injustices have been forced upon you. However, you mistake my meaning, I do not offer you to grovel at my feets like a common dog, no.” The King said as he looked around the room, beginning to pace a bit back and forth. “No, I offer you to stand tall and proud for the first time since Ulfrik, for the first time in decades, I offer you a future.” Varian shook his head, “You all call this a Kingsmoot, but there is no crown of worth, only one that lay in the gutter, like the rest of Norseland. You all want to call yourself king because of a parcel of land, there is only one Crown in this Kingdom, and that is Asgers, not the dozens of petty kings that now insult that honour. I doubt not your strength or determination for the Norse are famous for both. But I ask you, do likewise not doubt my determination, resourcefulness or sincerity. This is no Kingdom, it's a Jarldom, that this now passes for a Kingdom only shows how far the Norse have fallen from their once true power.”

“Bah!’ spat the red haired Torfi. “Similar words had been uttered in the days of Empire. You think we cast off those shackles to be bound once again by false words?! The Norse are masters of our own fate. We do not need southrons to stand tall and proud!”

Varian turned to him, “And what a proud destiny you have made, sitting here and bickering among one another how parcels when once it was kingdoms. You see me as nothing but a southern king, that is your weakness not mine.”

“We were ruled once from the south,” Tothri seethed. “Never again.”

Thorfast stepped forward, his amber eyes dubious as they studied Varian. “Just what do you intend as master of Stronghelm, hmm? Just how will you give us cause to be strong and proud? We know too well how you’ve castrated the lords of the south, robbed them of all and proclaimed yourself an absolute king in all things. What plans do you have for this frozen place?”

“Peace and prosperity forged through blood and fire.” Varian calmly responded. “I will take this castle and use it as my forward point. The Jarl of Norverg has recently attacked my lands, first I will take the road south from here down past the mountains and launch an invasion into his lands. He will either bow or he will break, after which I will turn on Ethelbor and force them back into vassalage, then finally turn on the Pale and bring it all under my banner. I shall give the peasants of Norseland peace and stability, your children a safe upbringing where they do not starve every winter for foolish wars and finally I shall give your warriors a proper reason to fight, something to make them proud and willing to sacrifice their lives, something that matters.” Varian took a short pause, “A future. To turn this rock into something worth fighting for rather..” he swayed with his hands, “than this.”

Thorfast shook his head. “Well, lads! You’ve heard from the king. Any swayed by his words?” The question was met with silence. Thorfast eyed the king. “I told you you would find no friends here. If you want stronghelm, if you want Norseland, then you will bleed for it!”

Valria glared across the room. “Would you fools really invite death for your vaunted pride? Would you see your sons and brothers dead? Your culture destroyed? The land of your ancestors scoured and worked by southrons while what’s left of your people freeze to death high in the mountains?” The young woman’s face was red with emotion as she looked among the men, her voice raised nearly to a yell. “Is it worth it? Is it better than the alternative you have been offered?” Varian, surprised, took a step back to see how the rest would react.

Thorfast sucked his teeth before he spoke. “My lady, the king is here by the err of a dead fool, looking to cajole his way to Asger’s Crown, and offers us only insults and fancies. You, however, speak more plainly. He is here by threat, and all he offers is just that, slavery or death. If what you say is to be our fate, so be it, but we will be free and go to the All-Father free of regrets.”

“Slavery,” Valria scoffed, spitting the word. “All men have a liege, you are being offered one who would actually be worthy of the name. Did Bethod lead you well because he was of Stronghelm?”

“Nay, lady, we are having one forced upon us with the false offer being scorned,” Thorfast returned. “King Varian knows nothing of Norseland, save his own contempt. Would you kneel to a Norse, to an Elf, to a Dwarf, to a damned Orc?! We will celebrate and saviour the fight that is to come, but we will not kneel.”

“We all kneel you damned fool!” She yelled impatiently, “Kneel to the man from whom you will gain the most!” Varian was impressed, there was little doubt, even interested as he handnt expected this passion from Valria, wondering if she had more love for them than she let on as he cut off a piece of the piglet off.

“Some more readily than others, it would seem,” Thorfast said with a crooked smile. “I’d expect nothing less from ignorant southrons”

Varian just chuckled in disbelief, ”You think this is strength? That this is honour?” Varian just asked as he stepped forward once again, “I offer you a future, a path to glory and you refuse it. You think that because you fight a southern king you fight for freedom?” Varian said mockingly. “You think your all-father will accept you just because you throw your life away in a foolish war, not only your own but that of your families.”

Varian paced around the room, “Lend me your ears and listen to my voice and come to sense. Do you think the men that fought under Emperor Alexander thought that they were worth less? Thought that they were lesser men during the battle of Mountain Pass when they destroyed the armies of Norse opposition. Or when the Norse fought under Emperor Alexander II in his conquest of Hroniden, when the Norse Jarls of Olaf, Bjorn and Herald, together with ten of their brave men defended the Emperor after he was thrown off his horse in battle. When they fought off a dozen waves and carried the day for the Empire. Do you think any of these men felt shame to serve? To kneel? No they were proud men, proud men who carved their names and legacies into the annals of history never to be forgotten, and they did so under a southern lord! They did not look at where their lord was from, but at the lord himself.”

Turning toward Thorfast and looking upon the Norse’s smug smile, Varian continued. “You say I know nothing of Norseland but my disdain for it, yet I love it for more than any of you, for I will be content with nothing but the whole kingdom as mine.” Varian turned to face all the Norse once more, “Even if this gathering would give me the crown of Stronghelm then I will not accept it, I will be your Jarl, not King. I will not disgrace the memories and wonders of Asger, Ulfrik and all of those in between by claiming to be a king over Stronghelm. No, I will be the King of all of Norseland or not at all.”

The king of Ecclestius turned to Thorfast for a moment before back at the rest of the gathering. “By all means, go with Thorfast and his idea of strength, what he proposes is easy so go do it if you wish, do what you have for the last decades, for the last century, pick up an axe and fight. What I am asking you to do is hard, for it requires more than just strength of the body, of your sword arm or battleaxe, it requires strength of character, of the heart and soul, of the mind. I am asking you to place your trust in me for the betterment of all. I am asking you to look yourself in the eyes and admit that you have been mistaken for decades, that you have led the Norse to decay and defeat, who carve up petty kingdoms, I am asking you to take a leap of faith so that you may prosper and carve your place in history among the great Norse warriors. All those who can work through their fear and doubt and swear to me as their Jarl will have my deepest respect and trust, for you have the strength to do what is needed and admit your own mistakes and shortcomings. Those of you that wish to fight for a broken idea instead of facing reality, instead of rising above the station you occupy and show the world your powers.” Varian took a short pause as his eyes lingered on the Norse gathered, looking over at Thorsted as well. “Where I am going I cannot use the weak.”

“The vassals of Ecclesson served the heirs of he who vanquished Darkness,” Thorfast pointed out. “What claim do you have of such a victory? You cite history and yet we all know where it led, an overbearing empire that robbed us of our crown. You come to our Moot and you offer nothing but words and nothing to show of your professed strength. You will not win our allegiance by word alone, Southron King. We will test your mettle in battle.”

“You are right once more, I claim no such victories for I will not parade the victories of my forefathers to make up for my shortcomings.” Varian said. “Blame everyone else all you want, only the Norse own decay has lost you the crown, Galadriel, Ecclestius, Highathar, all had their Crowns restored or created upon new. All the world prospers, apart from you.” Varian turned to the assembly, “I do wonder if you all share his views, as he seems to speak for you all, have you all found your King?” Varian asked before turning back to Thorfast, speaking loud enough for all to hear, “I have not come to your Moot, for it belongs not to you. You say say I have not shown strength, by all means. Go on your rampart, sail down your river and gaze upon the tens of thousands of soldiers that have come at my meer word.” The king just shook his head. “If you all wish to fight, so be it, but do not think that I will simply throw my mens life away in some glorious battle to prove myself to you. I have no need to prove myself to those that are so weak and feeble. If you want war then by all means I will give it to you, in all the fury that it brings, but I will not waste my soldiers who have sworn their life and loyalty to me in a faulty battle so you can be content. Fight if you wish, but know that hell shall follow in my wake.”

The hall exploded in commotion, thanes and warriors crying for the strangers blood. One even picked up an axe but was barred by some cloaked men who decried that violence here was blasphemous. Thorfast’s cocksure grin had since evaporated, and his face was grim as he looked on Varian. “You have your answer, King Varian. You have come seeking war, and it is war you shall have. May the All-Father watch over us.”

Varian smirked and his laughter filled the hall. “Good, very good, the weakness leaks through the cracks.” The King spoke as he stood face to face with Thorfast, “It was not I who offered battle, it was you, I do not seek a battle and neither shall we have one.” Varian looked around the room, “With luck then some of you will have the better sense than bloodlust.

"Goodbye, Kings of Stronghelm.”

 

[Endovelicus]

Whispers​

As he lay the Dagger of Berein upon the table his body shuddered, the whispers felt cold but satisfying, he reached for a quill and ink, his wrinkled old hands stopped shaking, the whispers calmed him, they were soothing, they were those of the Light.


His hands repeated on paper what the Light told him.


‘’We have the Queen, we need the Princess…’’


‘’Take her offer and you shall be blessed…’’


‘’...the temple must be held.’’


‘’They will see, they have to.’’


His hands stopped, his eyes could only look at the darkness of the dagger, yet it’s reflection was so bright, it was the light within.


He closed the book, sealed it. The high priests were waiting for him to speak, share the intrigue. He reached for his cane and slowly rose, one might audibly hear the cracking of his brittle bones as he rose. Power is hidden in belief, not looks.


‘’Brethren, the one above smiles upon us, as he always has. We have been blessed with fine men to aid us in protecting the faith, they have come from far and wide just to serve the true ways of faith.’’ The high priests around the table rejoiced. A few of these holy warriors were present in the room as well. The Grand Master took two steps forward, bowing.


‘’With the Blessings of the Light, our Archbishop and the Queen, I, Bultar have been chosen to lead our Sanctaidd Order wherever there is need for us.’’ He nodded to the priests as he took two steps back into line.


‘’The Queen has also asked for our assistance in raising and training the local levies, with the help of Bultar and the Queen’s commander Maut we have built a well prepared force.’’ The Archbishop said with a smile.


‘’Archbishop, if I may.’’ One of the priests raised his hands, the Archbishop nodded. ‘’What are we raising troops for? We are not at war.’’ The Archbishop took a deep breath. ‘’This information must not leave this room, or the Light will frown upon our forces if whispers make it to the enemy.’’ He glanced at the dagger. ‘’Zarer, the Republic.’’


Bultar and others reacted in shock. ‘’Kalar… my brethren Archbishop?’’ Before he could continue his speech the Archbishop intervened. ‘’You are with your brethren right now, Grand Master.’’ He coughed and then waited for the Grand Master to nod in agreeance with him, which he did not, to the Archbishop’s annoyance. ‘’May I ask Archbishop, why?’’


The Archbishop sat himself down on his throne, setting aside his cane to take the dagger in hand. ‘’The Queen wishes to take the Republic, restore its glory, putting a stop to its potential chaos, a lot of your former brethren which travel back and forth for their greedy intentions have mentioned the struggles the Assembly is going through, a tension between the parliament of new and the nobles of old. She wishes to subdue the trouble before your former brethren die to civil war.’’ The Grand Master did not seem convinced enough, as his face read.


In an unsure tone he replied. ‘’Why would the church follow her, Archbishop? Is it really in your…’’ he quickly reconsidered. ‘’...the Light’s interest?’’ The Archbishop switched the dagger around slowly in his hand, the green tinted light from the church’s windows beaming onto the dagger which reflected it as a white light to the walls inside. ‘’Order is in the Light’s interest, structure, a stable form. Chaos is led by dark intentions, though you should know this, our teachings were part of your training, Grand Master.’’ He nodded, as the Archbishop continued. ‘’If you are worried about your former brethren suffering you should not have to, if we let the chaos that is the Assembly run the city down, suffering will start. I have discussed the plans with Queen Wyna, she does not plan for unneeded death or suffering, if any of our forces step out of line they will be disciplined, you will see to that.’’ The Archbishop had greater intentions for himself beyond that, the Queen promised the church a district if the city had successfully been captured, it would surely please the One Above, it was her offer after all, as the Light had foretold.


The Grand Master had a look of concern written on his face, one of disappointment as well. “Will it please the Light if I slay my fellow brethren? Cruelty cannot be the answer Archbishop, it can’t. I joined the call to arms to defend the weak, our fellow brethren and the faithful. I joined for the Light...” His look of disappointment had a hint of disgust for the Archbishop, which got more intense when he spoke up to the Grand Master once more. “Even the One Above knows that sometimes we have to do that which we don't think is right, for the greater good. We will make sure to defend the weak, our families and those of good faith. You will have to make sure your men do not harm those, or else face punishment.” He took another breath and watched the shimmering light shining from the dagger before turning his gaze upon the Grand Master once more. “Those in Kalar who believe their greed and lack of faith can lead them to a successful life do not think of the consequences, the suffering they do upon others by only taking. Once we set foot in the city we will help the unfortunate souls. You have my word on it, you have the Light’s word on it.”


Without any words the Grand Master slowly walked out of the room, his fellow warriors did not follow him however. “He’ll be back, he needs the Order and the Order needs him. He will see, he has to.” One of the higher priests spoke up. “We still had other subjects to discuss Archbishop, plans for a reform and you wanted to make an appointment with the Queen.” The high priests said as he read it from a journal like laying in front of him.


“Aye, make the appointment and make sure the Princess attends as well.” He could hear the whispers from the dagger springing to life once more, more words, more commands.

 

[Terraferma]

Rashidun Military thinking prior to Winter of the 20th Year of the New Age​

In the twilight of House Ayyubid and the ensuing chaos that ripped the former desert kingdom of Hroniden apart, Khalib Sabir forged the Emirate of Shiek with the intent of having a firm hand of rule with the utmost support of the military. Once the borders were firmly established Shiek’s concern lay in attempts by the remaining heirs of House Ayyubid to reincorporate the nascent nation, as such the military was always deployed facing north In the general direction of the Vahamil Steppes and Mutikibir as well as keeping a vigilant eye on the Amenra River.

As other successor states rose, the Padishah began to construct forts particularly to the East fearing any sort of territorial ambitions from both Damasiz and even Herasnia with various efforts of patrolling the dividing river to not only protect vital fishing routes but primarily to discourage any would be invader that led to several instances of diplomatic tension. After the first decade of rule, facing increasing expenditures and not enough revenue the fleet which totaled over thirty ships was significantly curtailed much to the angst of House Kamel who had supplied the Emirate with most of the fleet. Unable to sway Khalib the military was downsized with a focus on forts that while held a hefty construction price, costs in maintenance in the long run were less than fielding and feeding a vast army. It was believed that the forts themselves would act as a strong deterrent considering a much smaller force could hold at bay invading armies or at the very least tie up sufficient numbers of troops to dilute a hypothetical offensive into Shiek.

Due to economic constraints the country adopted quality over quantity with the well-known General Mahmed carrying out much needed reforms within the armed forces preserving its manpower, establishing a stable hierarchy and raising its combat prowess. Expansionism during Khalib’s reign was never truly considered with defensive stratagems and survival being the order of the day. Once the reigns passed down to his vehemently reluctant son, Hassam, a new concept began to form: Armed Neutrality.

During those first twenty-years the Emirate of Shiek kept nominal relations with its neighbors, choosing to use diplomacy as a delaying tactic to avoid all-out war at least for a time. In fact, it wasn’t until the rise of Padishah Hassam that the art of diplomacy and compromise became an actual tool of sovereignty and power. Seeking to further cement both the rule of House Sabir and his own, focus was redirected towards the army reinforcing its support and that of General Mahmed’s undeniable popularity among the soldiers. But this was merely only one facet of the Armed Neutrality concept.

True to his scholarly background, Hassam made sure to further expand foreign relations with his neighbors from the former capital of Mutikabir to Damasiz and to a far lesser extent towards the Vahamil Steppe elves which would play a role in the coming conflict. In doing so he would be able to not only use trade with the locals to improve the nation’s fortunes, while avoiding alliance oriented entanglements, but with it strengthen the military that remained a central tenant to House Sabir’s rule. Indeed, the one constant in the Emirate’s martial doctrine was that the threat lay in the East and to the North. This all changed when the Birchian cultists began to assault the Fae Elves in the steppes.

By the time the invasion began, the Armed Neutrality Doctrine was being chipped away at after an alliance with Salah Al-Aziz Nasir Fatumid, the Emir of Damasiz. The country’s policy was further strained with the Padishah’s decision to indirectly help the elves. Still unwilling to become tied up in the affairs of others, Hassam believed that arming the Fae Elves would at the very least kill many of their hated enemy. Despite overtures from Karmont, Shiek as well as the rest of the neighboring kingdoms refused to forget or forgive the transgressions of the past. Despite the lack of support from the royal court behind this endeavor, in fact this was unknown to them until the summit that forged the Hroniden successor states together to fight the cultists, the Emirate spent significant amounts of money to arm and supply the elves that many argued only delayed the inevitable. In this regard, the consensus among many in the country was and remains that no aid should be given in addition to the seizure of their rightful lands on the Amenra riverbanks which had been a point of contention for a few years.

Prior to the summit organized by both Sir Duncan of the Light Basin and Padishah Hassam, Shiek feared an attack from its fellow neighbors and while the forts near the Amenra River remain, once the assaults on the elves began the military shifted its focus squarely on the West ending over two decades of concrete-clad strategic thinking.

 

[BlackBishop]

Lurking
with Robespierre Reborn

First Harvest, 21st year of the new age
​

Hidden within clouds a dark shape moves forward. It seems a storm to the eye, swirled in darkness, driving cattle and game mad. Sharp teeth, and sharper eyes cut through the tempest. It moves south from the mountains. The frigid winds, the bastions of peaks and rock, and the comforting cold was now left behind. Ahead was a great river, sprung from the mountain home. The life-giver to the desert. A dry and horrid place, with a relentless heat.

With a great flap of her wings, Sykir Tyzen'Pargos, thrust herself upwards, staying among the clouds. Some mad instinct driving her forward. Her nostrils flared, a chill breath exhaled in a hiss, Sykir drove forward with a renewed sense of purpose. After a harrowing hunt, losing her quarry, she finally caught the scent.

With a thunderous roar that wrought lightening, she glides through the air.

And the storm comes with her...

* * * * *


The Hroniden camp stretched along the banks of the Amenra, the river itself was like a shimmering ribbon of silver, snaking across the landscape to the mountain ranges beyond, and emptying out into the Southron Sea. Along the other side, great dunes of sand sheltered the camp from the oppressive desert sun.


In the central pavilion, all flaps raised to permit a gentle wind, sat Duncan of Westmarch. Clad in a simple tunic and a flowing silk robe, the Grand Paladin was not yet dressed for war. He took a leisurely sip of arak as he thumbed through reports from his order. Duncan's eyes seemed elsewhere, lost in thought. They soon focused on the incoming banner of House Fatumid.


Salah Al-Aziz rode on top of his most noble steed, in full katafrakt officer’s armour with a bright red cape, stopped the horse in front of the central pavilion. He got off his stallion, instructed his squire to lead it to a place with shadow, feed and give it water. He then walked into the pavilion and looked at the paladin. He frowned at Duncan’s relaxed clothing and said, “Not yet ready to fight are we? What if someone were to attack you this very moment and the only thing you can defend yourself with is a robe of silk and a goblet of wine?”


“Should I be expecting violence here in this very camp, venerable Shah?” Duncan returned with a raised eyebrow. It seemed to the Paladin that Al-Aziz was a strong man, not unlike a blunt instrument one might fling upon his enemies. There was a thinly concealed rage about the man, however, that seemed unstable, and threatening. Duncan pondered if the Emir would prove more trouble then what he's worth.


“You never know what would happen do you?” He said touching the hilt of his scimitar. “Of course, I would not harm you. But assassins and other low-life can always find a way if need be.”


“The Light is my ward in the Darkness, Your Excellency." Duncan's eyes narrowed upon the hilt of Salah's sword. "I hold no fear here among my friends and allies.’


“While the Light can guide oneself through darkness, it cannot defend against its servants of evil.” The emir took a glass and filled it with wine and took a sip, and then said, “But you wanted to see me, did you not?”


“Indeed, though nothing pressing, I deem. Merely to ensure you have everything you need heading into the campaign, and to go over our strategy…” Duncan eyed Salah carefully, funneling the Emir's rage. “I assume you heard Mutikabir have shirked their obligations.”


Salah clenched his fists, “Yes, we were naive to ever believe that all of the nine families would honour their obligation to Hroniden instead of their own interest.” He paused, took another sip of his wine and said: “It’s the fault of Lord Arshad. That worm cannot even keep the council in line and most of the families are nothing short of being traitors.”


Duncan took another slow sip of arak. “Nevertheless, I believe we will have the manpower needed to wrestle the Steppes from Birchian horde. Now then, where do you intend to march to from here, Emir Salah? Shah Rostani and myself intend to make for the Light Basin. You’re welcome to join us, though I figure you will want to head north and begin your assault in earnest.”


“I indeed hope we do. Even though the reports of that the heretics have digged in and bolstered their forces with several thousand men. Didn’t you claim that the paladins were able to deny the Birchian troops reinforcements?

"Nevertheless, I intend to march as soon as possible and while I’m fighting I hope that you and ‘Shah’ Rostani keeps a keen eye out for any enemies trying to sneak in to reinforce and harass their supply lines, while protecting ours. The assaults will also depend on the weather. Heavy and continuous rain would make the steppe a land of mud and our cavalry would get bogged down. But the rain season is nearing its end, so it shouldn’t be a problem.”


“You can trust in the Paladins, Your Eminence. Once the call for war is made, no Karmont troop will make the trek to Vahamil without being bloodied. That I swear! However, I was not about to commit troops to battle before all the pieces were set.”


“I do indeed hope you are right in that assumption, Paladin. I wouldn’t be keen to find a force charging my flanks while engaged. If there is nothing more, I will leave you, to whatever you did before I arrived.”


“Fare thee well, Emir Salah. Go with Light.”


“I will, thank you.” And with that, Salah Al-Aziz turned on his heel and left the pavilion. Duncan's eyes followed him for a moment, before getting lost once more. As he pondered some unknown dilemma, a distant rumble drew his attention.

A storm is coming.

 

[Terraferma]

Several missives are hastily sent to the other members of the cobbled-together alliance

Esteemed leaders, I have just been informed by General Mahmed that according to the few Fae encountered in our moves north that their leader Prince Ioron has abandoned his people. If this is true, then the enemy may have already won by the time your forces arrive. With luck, the remaining Fae resistance in the Steppes continue to fight. I ask you to advance ever more quickly to our target. Our forces have also been informed that the Fae are electing to return back to their native land of Galadriel, our troops are ensuring safe passage and be aware of their movements in the event of their crossing into your own lands. May the maker bless us all.

~Padishah Hassam Khanduras Sabir


One separate missive is sent to Galadriel itself

Greetings and salutations to you Nienna Coamenel, Queen of all of Galadriel. I have written to inform you that one of my generals has delivered information to me regarding the Fae Elves of the Vahamil Steppes. As you no doubt have already learned, Hroniden marches to war in the Steppes and with our movements to the north we have come across the Fae Elves on the Western Amenra Riverbank, they say that Prince Ioron has abandoned them. Our forces encountered few of your people leading us to believe that those who remain fight on in the Steppes. The rest have elected to return home to Galadriel, as such our forces are facilitating safe passage, at least out of the Emirate of Shiek, therefore this missive serves as an advance notice that your kin are returning home. May the maker bless our kingdoms.

~Padishah Hassam Khanduras Sabir​

 

[Olligarchy]

A Crown not of Gold
Sakhec had to resist an urge to cackle as he exited the vaunted Halls of High King Deagrin Victor. He couldn't believe he'd actually done it... he'd convinced the King to not only support the usurpation of Dain Blacklocks, but agreed to support his ascension to the position of Underking of Yurdaest as well. His plans were coming together even better than he could have believed. Not only was his alliance with the Orcs strengthening, the Dwarven Kingdoms too were eating from his oily paws eagerly... drinking in his each and every word of strength, power and prosperity.

Fools the lot of them. The Shadowstalker had no interest in remaking the Dwarven Kingdoms as anything, but his own vassalage to strengthen his personal power and dominion. He'd been in private discussions with the King of Goi'Orka and was to marry one of the Bastards of Bathor soon after his own ascension, and now he only need remove the Blacklocks from his way... one piece at a time.

The Rise of the House of Sakhec was to begin.

 

[BlackBishop]

A wretched storm descends down the Amenra from Kholgrov, said to conceal a great terror

Early Summer
21st Year of the New Age
(Brought to you by the incessant nagging of @Terraferma )​

The Spring had proved a tumultuous time, with war spreading across all corners of Agorath. Hrondian armies marshal against Vahamil and Karmont, King Krestarii leads a great host into Norseland, and the warring kingdoms of Highathar draw first blood against Galadriel. There was no doubt in the lands of Agorath, that the time of peace that followed the War of Darkness was at an end, as once again the continent was plunged into war.

In Norseland, King Ares Krestarii led a great host to Stronghelm to press an obscure claim over the beleaguered petty kingdom. The former king of Stronghelm, Bethod the Bloodless, had capitulated large tracts of land in the fertile south to King Ares, giving the Ecclestian King a voice in the Kingsmoot to decide the next king of Stronghelm. It is said that King Ares called the Norse weak and pitiful, and flung other insults before demanding they kneel. The moot rejected the demands of the king, as an assault on the Iron Hall of Stronghelm is thought to be imminent. Once Stronghelm falls, no doubt the army will move on to Norvegr, following the petty kingdom's raid of Wallachia earlier in the spring. King Ares made no secret of his intent to subjugate all of Norseland to his rule. It was also revealed that King Thrunruul Moonbreaker of Norvegr has kidnapped a prominent merchant-noble of Ecclestius, and holds him hostage.

After suffering raids from the Yurdaesti Dwarves on Galad soil, Queen Nienna orders the armies of Galadriel to raise their banners and march to the western border, preparing to safeguard the realm from further Dwarven aggression. The situation in Highathar further devolves as hostilities mount, this time Goi'Orka enters the fray, laying siege to Kogansunan, breaching the Citadel and capturing much of the Barthror Household and nobility. The aggression of the Goi'Orka Orcs does not stop there, however, as they raid and pillage Dwarven Villages as far north as the Yurdaesti Passes, earning strong condemnation from High Mountain and Mahakam, and declarations of war and a dismissal of the Goi-Orka-Yurdaest non-aggression pact.

Meanwhile, merchant caravans from Ghullkazid had begun to arrive en masse in the trading centers of the east, bringing with them news of the mysterious west. It is said that King Logain Deftspear had become obsessed with ancient relics, in particular the Eldar Grail, a mystical chalice said to bestow immortality, as told in the Saga of Ithyl in the Holy Doctrines. However, it is said the holy relic lies in the black swamps of the southern forest, where a powerful nomadic tribe of Orcs, the Mo', are said to dwell. The far flung Dwarven kingdom also began construction of a road to connect their realm with their nearest trade partner, Goi-Orka, an ambitious effort still years from coming into fruition.

The Dwarves also tell of a rising power to the south, where the Fuming Sea meets the Southron. Known as Akkum, led by Ayasin Eymur, a powerful seeress by some accounts, was waging a war against vassals of the Black Isle, that had once again began exerting influence over the Ashlands. Eager for sources of precious minerals, the Lady of Akkum had stretched out her talons against brutish Orcs, who sought protection from the Maegi. It is said that the Dark Priestess herself was present on the battlefield. Even with the Maegi orchestrating the efforts of the Orcs, Akkum forces were able to force a route, and gain territory in their ongoing war.

In Vahamil, an army of over ten thousand strong, led by Emir Fatumid of Damasiz, has breached the eastern steppes, and prepares to strike against the Birchian cultists that have made their strong hold in the west. The Fae, clinging to their last stronghold, Evindim, prepare their final defense, resound to being attacked from both sides. From their fortress in Vahamill, a former Gwilgwithörn or Hidden Home built by the Fae, since renamed Amell Fortress, saw a dramatic increase of Birchian troops, with reinforcements numbering ten thousand. The escalation of armies in Vahamil would ensure a bloody conflict ahead. Further east, along the banks of the Amenra, Padishah Sabir dispatches his army to seize the lands long held by the Fae occupiers, liberating the fertile bank from the Fae, and banishing them to Galadriel. The nomadic tribes that dwelt there returned and swore fealty to the Padishah, increasing the size of Shiek in only a few short weeks.

As the pieces were put in place around Vahamil, with Fatumid's army entering the Steppes, Sabir taking the west bank, and Rostani and Duncan marching to the Light Basin, a great storm came south with great speed from Kholgrov, descending into the Amernra River Valley, and sweeping across the land. It is said that Lightening split the sky and thunder roared like the Gods of Mythos, and concealed within was a terror of ages past. Day turned to night and before the denizens of the Palace of the Just, seat of Padishah Sabir, realized the horror that stalked the skies above, the monster descended from the heavens and loosed lightening and thunder from its jaws. A lone ship, flying the Shieki colours, caught the brunt of the dragon's attack. Its mast and hull torn to splinters, and its crew that escaped the jaws of the terror drowned in the silver waters of the Amenra.

Before the warships of the Shiek could respond, the storm rescinded, and the dragon along with it. In the investigation that followed, dead Fae washed up on along the river bank, and the account of witnesses were taken. It seemed the ship was not of Shieki origin, but the Fae of Vahamil. It is unknown what intent they had, though most guessed they fled the war in Vahamil, though what brought them south was a mystery. Days later, an Elven merchant oaring south swore to all that would listen that he saw the dragon speeding through the sky, northbound for Highathar, and an egg clutched within its talons.

Spoiler: GM Note

It probably comes as no surprise to most of you when I say that I've decided to bring this game to its conclusion. While its been fun, and the IC has been incredible, the grind in maintaining the game has withered my resolve in keeping it running. I know some of you might point to my other forum game as an obvious reason to this, but I don't think that that is the case. I've been struggling with keeping the game going these past few turns, and in the absence of my second game I'd guess we might have only had another turn, or two max.

Spoiler: GM Note

I've pretty much decided that this will be my last order based game, or at least one with such a large roster.

To bring the game to its conclusion, we will be doing two final updates. The first will be an update spanning roughly the next five years. This should be oriented around goals that you had hoped to accomplish in the span of the game. Beyond that we will be doing a generational update, an epilogue that will carry us into the next fifty to 100 years or so.

I love Agorath, and I love the IC you've all worked so hard to write over the course of the three games. My hope is that once the epilogue is finalized, we will have the broad strokes laid out, and a framework for major events in the future, that we may continue the IC, with me being free of the burden of GMing. I really want to continue the story of Narien, and I hope some of you guys will be along with me for this.

For the updates, please try and limit your orders to your major goals. Try and use your stats as a guide in what you might be able to accomplish, and include any supporting objectives that might help realize your main goals. To give you an idea on what the range is in stats, small nomadic tribes had total incomes of 10k, while the largest kingdom, Ecclestius had 820k and was growing. Try to be realistic in what you can accomplish in the next five years, and use that as a spring board for the final epilogue.

Orders will be done in the main thread in spoilers, with players free to edit in responses to other player orders should they be effected. Stealth players may pm me some clandestine objectives as well. I'll give you guys about two weeks to finalize your orders, with a possible extension if we have some late orders. After that, Tapp and I will begin writing the update.

I want to thank all you guys for all the work you put in the game, and all the great IC. I especially want to thank Terraferma for constantly pushing me to get out this update, as I likely would have let this fall into obscurity otherwise, and I want to thank my co-GM Tapp for all his help. Hopefully some of you will join me after the updates to continue on the story of our characters. For now we will get these final updates out, and bring the game to a general close. Thank you all so so much for playing!

 

[Olligarchy]

Sad to see this go. Was in only a short time, but even as a player mostly on the 'backend' really loved every minute of it. Thanks for the offer to send in my orders in a clandestine manner @BlackBishop, but the time for sneakiness has come and gone and as such... I present my overall plans in Short/Long Term manner with an additional cool bit I was working on coming to fruition.

Spoiler: Aims of Sakhec the Shadowstalker

Short Term Goals - Dwarven unification and destruction of the budding Orc kingdom at Goi'Orka.
I was in a quasi-IC/OOC manner in talks with @baboushreturns who wanted to use me and my magic to solidify his own rule over the mountain realms. We had this plan going where after I usurped Dain Blacklocks I'd marry one of Bathors bastards, swear fealty to him and help overthrow the Dwarven Kingdoms.

Only what the clever, clever boy didn't realise was that @Tapscott was PM IC'ng with me about correspondence between Sakhec and the High King. The High King was offering recognition of Sakhec's dominion over Yurdaest if he were to overthrow the line of Dain.

All of that is to say that well... Dain Blacklocks and his son really, really had to go and were on their out. I'd have overthrown them next turn, married the Bathor and began my next strategic set piece: crushing Goi'Orka in one go. I'd slowly on the background amassed myself quite an army... consisting of Black Orcs that @DutchGuy had so helpfully found for me from the deeps, as well as the Dawi of Yurdaest. I'd have drawn up a plan where the Dwarven hosts finally united to challenge Baboush, with Sakhec's host seemingly on the Orcish side... at least until battle is joined at which point the Yurdaesti and Black Orcs would've smashed into his flanks, hopefully delivering a victory worthy of song and memory.

From there my plans are more vague on that front... I meant to eventually become the High King or something similar, but mostly I was going to just use the Dawi to shield my flanks and allow me to focus on my real objective in the game: return of Magic... and the Dark One.

Long Term Goals - Rising/Last ditch assault of Darkness.
This is why I had all that demonology going on in Sakhec's background, and why I spent almost half my orders in trying to locate magical shite. I really, really wanted to stop magic from dying out. The basic plan was to seek magical artefacts and Dark Ones stuff... and sacrifice different Kings in an orgy of blood and gore to strengthen the darkness!

Next turn I was going to sacrifice Dain (the King who Was) and his son (the King who would've been) and in the future I had my eyes on Baboush (The King who is). After that... well I was going to be an equal opportunity ass, murderising players and npc's alike in sacrifices to restore some power to magic and the Dark One, with eventual aim being to become Sauron basically.

Random Cool Shit: Battle of the Sown
Now I wasn't expecting to be able to stay in the shadows forever. As King of Yurdaest Sakhec would no doubt have come under heavy scrutiny, and eventually the Forces of Light would've gotten wise to what was going on and intervened. This is why I intended to start spreading rumours of Sakhec having this super elite berserker unit called 'the Silent', whom were... silent when they fought.

The trick? They're not actually soldiers, but rather captured civilians, slaves and children with their mouths sown shut and tongues ripped out. I meant to have them equipped and faces covered so when they were 'unleashed' towards the Army of Light thinking they were free, their dread appearance and reputation would cause the Light siders to basically massacre them and only too late realise what they'd just done... right before they are charged by Black Orcs and Yurdaesti Dwarves!

Well... that is as far as my dreams got me.

Again... had fun and hope to be included in future editions of Agorath(tm)!

Best of luck to ya'll.

 

[Mikkel Glahder]

The Unending Light

The sun was blazing down upon the Vahamil Steppes. The dirt in the camp of Salah Al-Aziz Fatumid was cracking. The camp was constructed as a large ring, with the entrance from the west, forming a road all the way to the pavilion, where the Emir resided when he was resting and planning. At this time however, he was not there. Along the road, soldiers and nobles stood, with the nobles being closest to the pavilion. The cavalry was mounted on their trusted steeds and they all waited in aticipation for their commander.

Outside the camp, a man in a white armour mounted a white horse. While it was bit dusty, he believed that it wouldn't be seen. His retainers were of the same opinion. They had been out looking for some sort of artifact. The other men did not understand what it was. Their emir had looked at old writings, dating to before the War of Darkness. What they did know, was that he was talking about some sort of holy sword, called the Sword of Undening Light.

As they got into the camp, Emir Salah Al-Aziz slowed down slightly as he rode on the road towards the middle of the camp. When he got nearer the centre, he dismounted and walked to the priest where he kneeled. The priest blessed him and then said: "I hereby proclaim you Nasir Al-Din. May your enemies fall before you and may the Creator protect and bless your most holy soul."
After this, Nasir Al-Din mounted, grabbed his ancestral banner and a brand new one that was adoned with holy words from ancient text, and rode back and forth on the 'road' whilst his soldiers chanted "Nasir Al-Din, Inshallah, Nasir Al-Din, Inshallah."

Spoiler: Orders, Salah Al-Aziz Fatumid

Short term goals:

The Sword of Undending Light:
This holy sword shall be aquired from an ancient temple in the Steppes. A sword blessed and created by the Creator himself is surely something to strife for.

War in the Steppes:

Salah Al-Aziz shall call all faithful for "aid" in the upcoming battles.
His cavalry shall harass the supply lines of the heathens to weaken them for later battles, while his troops dig in near the Fae capital, attempting to send letters to them to keep them fighting. Once the heathens have been in the siege for long enough (not long enough for the Fae to be defeated), Salah Al-Aziz shall strike from behind, his cavalry conducting hammer and anvil tactics. Of course, if the heathens remove themselves from the Fae siege, they shall be pursued.
He shall aggressively work on removing the heathens from the Steppes.

Long term goals:

The Desert Crown:
Nasir Al-Din shall after a hopefully succesful campaign, march his army to Mutikabir and say that the houses that did not deliver on their promises must be punished as is the will of the creator. He shall agitate for the populace of Mutikabir and the guards to deliver the city to him so he can rule it with a heavenly mandate, without the intrigues of the Nine Families who are to be potrayed as: "Corrupt, irresponible and unholy."
When the city is taken, he shall be crowned by several priests, as Sultan of Hroniden and True Heir of the Ayyubids.
From there on, he shall strengthen his position by marrying his sons and daughters into powerful houses so that they can stay loyal to the Desert Crown.
He shall also call on the mages of light of Agorath how to keep light magic alive, whilst containing the darkness.

 

[aedan777]

Spoiler: Objectives of the Birchian State (aka stop getting in the way of justice against Elves)

Short term goals: Hold Amell Fortress, defeat incursions into Birchian lands by Paladins and their Hronidinian allies, while Birchian agents will assassinate major Hronidinian officers in the armies in Vahamil, to reduce their interest in fighting the war. Also kill Duncan.

Long term goals: Once the Hronidinians have lost interest in fighting at the whims of the Paladins, conquer the Vahamil steppes and drive out the Steppe Elves. Once the Paladins have someone sane in charge (kill their leaders until this is the case), offer them a deal to end their raids and guaranteeing the ability for pilgrims to go through Birchian lands. Once this deal is made make no move to antagonize the Paladins or the Light Basin. Once the Vahamil Steppes are secured and peace attained, work on improving the economy and centralized authority of the Birchian state, while supporting colonization of the steppes. Also extend influence over more tribes in the west, to count the growing influence of the Black Isle.

 

[Dadarian]

Spoiler: Goals of the Mo'

Short Term: Grow the Mo' Camp, settle down, develop into a permanent town, trade with dwarves, etc.

Long Term: Become an independent, free Orc oligarchy. Tribalism will give way to a council of elders, power will be entrenched and the Orcs of Mo' will develop into a city state. Aggression will be limited to honour fighting using goblin levies or champions, while cattle barons and logger lords become the primary sources of bourgeoisie wealth. While not necessarily 'Good' (capital G included), the Mo' will/should develop into a relatively free city (think Greece over Italy in terms of city states)

 

[BlackBishop]

((Writing for the first round of epilogue orders will begin next week, so get your orders up ASAP. Remember you guys are free to edit your orders in response to other players. For example, another player orders an attack upon your fief, you may edit your orders to include a counter-attack... but any meta shenanigans such as sudden foresight into other orders and edits will be punished accordingly. Remember, stealth specialists may pm me any covert objectives. ))

 

[Galren]

Spoiler: Orders for Zaahir Rostani

Short Term Goals: Zaahir will most likely be focusing on his forces marching to the Light Basin in order to support the efforts there. He will be keeping a particularly close eye on the reserves sent by Mutikabir and will try to keep them out of the fighting for as long as possible.

Long Term Goals: After the conflict in Vahamil has been resolved, Zaahir will likely have to deal with Mutikabir, but not immediately since Zaahir will wait to see if his son Shakur will be returned to him. With or without his son, Zaahir would likely not send his hostage back to Mutikabir particularly since Lord Sayed doesn't want to. Zaahir would likely allow Lord Sayed to execute his plan while Zaahir would make sure the allies he gathered stick with him when another inevitable conflict with Mutikabir comes.

If Salah al-Aziz Fatumid decides to make a move on Mutikabir, Zaahir will most likely respond by preparing his allies for conflict with Fatumid but not moving against him since his presence would likely benefit Zaahir's plans. The end goal of these schemes will be to make Nasir Ayyubid the Sultan of Hroniden.

 

[Corman50]

Spoiler: King Thrunrul Moonbreaker Goals

Short Term Goals:

Make a truce with the Jarls in Forstfang, then try to form a coalition of Norse Leaders to repel the Ecclestian invasion and hopefully succeed by relying on knowledge of the terrain and experience of Norse troops.

Long Term Goals:

Use prestige gained from the war to unify Norseland through more diplomatic means (if not on keep fighting). Then try to build up Norseland into a formidable Kingdom. Try to repair some the damage of years of constant warfare and build a large fleet.

 

[BlackBishop]

((To avoid being meta, I suggest everyone writes out there orders first, before scoping out other players orders. Just a tip.))

 

[Sneakyflaps]

Spoiler: Orders for Varian and Ecclestius

Short orders:
Varian will fight out the war with Stronghelm, using a mix of open battles and starvation to bring the population under his control. Afterwards he will repair the fortress and leave a sizeable portion of the Ecclestian army up north under Eklow, where they can rule and dominate the landscape, both political and economically.

While Eklow stays north, Varian will travel south and continue his reforms (started some during the game) where he will create new provinces and administrative units in his Kingdom, allowing for much better tax collection as well as a larger recruitment poll and larger army in general.


Long term orders:
Varian will continue the reforms as mentioned above and continue to attempt to make the Kingdom prosperous. During peace time he will build great statues, palaces and buildings both for his own vanity but also for the glory of his kingdom and his power.

During the long term, apart from his administrative reforms which will greatly strengthen the Kingdoms power, it is especially 5 things that will mark his reign.

1. Administrative reforms mentioned above

2. Religious reform:
Varian will reform the religion in Ecclestius, forming the Church of Ecclestius with him as its head. It will be structured not entirely distant from feudal structure, with him at the head, following by Archbishops and so on down to the lowly clergy. The priests as they have always lived on the grace of the nobility, will be given a set purse by the king to maintain their person and duty, thus also keeping them under Varian’s financial control.

3. Standardization in military:
Following the earlier reforms where new provinces were drawn up, the king will now standardize his military, this will no doubt limit the amount of recruit able men, however it will also on a state level make the king able to issue chest plates and other armor/weaponry so that his soldiers fight better, are less likely to die and more likely to kill the enemy. This will also have the military do far more training to give better discipline.

4. Varian’s Legal Code:
Varian will set up the first kingdom wide legal code in Ecclestius, he will also set up courts in the various provinces so that the Kings Justice can reach all, and that the entire kingdom is put under his laws.

5. The Conquest of Norseland (depending on how late in the reign, his son Prince Ares will accompany him):
The biggest conquest during Varian’s reign will be the conquest of Norseland, which will be carried out after the military reforms above. Varian will march north once more with a very large host and put Norseland to the sword. He will begin by conquering the Frostfangs after which he will move west to Ethelbor and thus securing the lower half of Norseland for his kingdom.
A key point however is what follows after, the conquest of Norverg, Varian will beat back Norvegrs army and decimate on the field, what will follow will be known as the Vorvegrian bloodbath. Varian will round up the local petty king, Thrunrul, as well as his heirs and the nobility and warrior class that supports the petty king. Varian in this act will wash away the old traditions of Norseland as the snow melts by mingling with the warm blood of their previous nobility, after which Varian will give out the land to his supporters. He will then finish the conquest of Norseland by subduing the Pale.
Upon the completion he will crown himself King of Norseland while giving his heir the title Prince of Norseland and giving him the fief of Stronghelm to rule both it and Norseland until his time comes to take over in Ecclestius proper.

Added note: Varian would also have 3-4 more children with Anne, split between boys and girls.

 

[Terraferma]

Spoiler: Orders for Padishah Sabir and the Emirate of Shiek

Short Term

• Train levy forces while consolidating our hold on the newly gained territory.
• When the forces are well trained and prepared, to give assistance to allied forces in the Steppes via protecting supply lines, harrying enemy forces and disrupting enemy logistics especially via the scouts, The Pathfinders.
• Improve the border fortresses as best as possible, launch limited raids if the opportunity arises.
• Expand the navy to at least double the present force.
• Conduct counter-espionage at home to root out enemy spies while deploying eyes and ears to Mutikibir and the Vahamil Steppes to provide vital intelligence gathering.

Long term

• Unless the war against the Birchians ends disastrously, the Padishah will both seek to expand his demesne as well as usher in a new age of culture and discovery, becoming a patron of the arts and focusing on everything from architecture, science, ship building, even economic discoveries/reform.
• Shiek will pursue strengthening itself economically by finally implementing its food banks now that the irrigation expansion is complete and selling its surplus throughout the world be it food, weapons, spices or even fabrics.

• Seeing her chance, Padishah Hassam Khanduras Sabir's wife Aliya will pursue her own agenda to strengthen her influence by trying to take point in the new "golden age" of Shiek and going so far as to have contacts with the Eccletius pushing for not only TRADE, but going so far as to try to emulate them. (Think westernization of Japan)

• The Padishah will attempt to organize a summit in the immediate post-war if possible but requesting that not only do the leaders of Mutikibir, Damasiz and Herasnia attend but also inviting the most influential noblemen, merchants and aristocrats to decide via a Grand Assembly once and for all who should lead the nation. This is to put to the test the claims of any and all would be leader, the aim to force the others to politik those outside of their sphere of influence to gain as close to a consensus as possible. Rumor has it Aliya will favor the status quo and Shiek's independence while Sabir himself though lukewarm would lean towards his ally from Damasiz, assuming Salah Al-Aziz Fatumid was successful in the prosecution in the war, if he was wildly successful then it will have Sabir and even Aliya (though begrudgingly) throw in their support to him, in favor of significant regional autonomy.
• Regardless of absorption or outright continued independence, the Emirate will focus on strengthening itself economically and become an exporter, not importer, of goods. As a sign of the times late into Sabir's reign will he seek to expand the Emirate's reach by creating the nation's first swords of hire, known as "The Iron Hands", these elite forces would serve the highest bidder to increase Shiek profits with zero moral foresight or hindsight.
• As far as the military is concerned, it will be purely for defensive purposes, however, the aim will be to maintain its sizable force and making them as highly trained as possible, evolving the concept of "Armed Neutrality" with a "Neither East Nor West" mentality. They will exercise geopolitics when it suits them, even going as far as to have business with the Jagged Spire.

• In the event of Hassam Khanduras Sabir dying unexpectedly, the crown goes straight to the oldest and if he is not of age his mother Aliya will rule as regent. The oldest would mimic his father as would his own offspring while Aliya would seek to improve relations with Ecclestius to the point of a full blown alliance if threatened domestically or or by an outside force. When the boys come of age she will gladly cede control but she will attempt to maintain influence to her dying days. If the leadership somehow falls to the youngest, he will break with them all and seek to unify Hroniden under Shiek's banner.
• Religiously towards the end of his reign Hassam will finally allow for the most influential Imam (regional leaders of the Muthaqaf religion) to finally serve on the council changing its name to the "Majestic 4". If the oldest eventually leads the Emirate, he will maintain this council of 4 as would the youngest. Aliya would be the one to oppose it and even reverse it, at least during her reign as regent.

 

[Endovelicus]

Spoiler: The Orders of Thaanos

Short Term Goal;


(I was already preparing this for this turn really, but it shall be put in here, as it would be of major importance to my storyline.)


The Battle of Kalar. (and its possible aftermaths?)



The Assembly of Kalar had been invited, they had even arrived, as they had said they would. Wyna knew it would be the perfect time to strike, a form of revenge for the death of her father. She stood on the balcony of her tower, looking down upon the convoy that came with the Assembly as the gates were opened. They poured in with their caravans, each seeming to have a few guards with them, it mattered not, Maut was prepared, the Grand Master was also to be there by the Archbishops order.


The members of the Assembly had finally managed to leave their caravans. Maut’s eyes met with those of the Grand Master as he raised his hand with a fist. A group of mixed troops converged upon the Assembly and their company. A sea of men in their white clothing, the Sanctaidd Order, those loyal to the Archbishop, the holy warriors of Thaanos. In between also the Queen’s own Royal Guard, as well as at least a hundred of Maut’s most trusted and trained men. Archers waiting upon the wall aimed their bows toward the Assembly, as well as Archers in the guard towers. The Assembly had two choices, be captured with or without bloodshed. They chose with. It was not a long lasting fight. The Assembly being so outnumbered would have to give up, they would not have another choice. The first part of the plan had succeeded.


Knowing that Thaanos had to act fast the Queen send out most of the army toward Kalar, including at least half of the holy warriors with allowance of the Archbishop, to whom she did promise compensation upon capture of the city. (This also included the raised indentured)


The plan would be to use merchant caravans each filled with at least three men enter the city as merchants. As the trade was still growing between Thaanos and Kalar it should not seem too out of place. Some of the caravans would also carry priests with them, some would also be filled with members of the holy order, some of which were Kalarians themselves. These would have made sure to have arrived before the army would. In total around twenty such caravans had been sent between the time the Assembly were still travelling toward Thaanos and the dispatching of the Thaanosian forces.


The army took their while to arrive but things were well coordinated all together, with hope little would be known of their arrival by the time they did. They arrived at night, as planned. Those within the walls of Kalar knew what to do. As the Kalar troops would try to rally waiting for anyone to take charge a group of Thaanosian soldiers had grouped at the docks, setting fire to a few of Kalar’s ships, merchant or military, it did not matter, it was all to distract, they would make sure to escape the crime scene as fast as possible. Not only would it cripple the fleet of Kalar, it was also done in help to create chaos, and signal the main army they could start moving in bit by bit. Around the same time, the priests together with the few holy warriors within the walls tried to rally those of Thaanosian faith, as the past few months a lot of Kalarians had turned to it. ‘’Your liberators have arrived! Aid them! The Archbishop has sent us the Light’s force!’’ The priests tried to get to some of the higher points in Kalar, some of these vantage points known to those holy warriors which originated in Kalar. They would keep preaching, hoping for the Kalarians to fight for the right side. The last few of the infiltrators were on a suicide mission. Smaller groups sent to attempt to cause chaos atop the walls, to open some of these gates, anything for the army to pour in. Weither they were succesful would change a lot of the outcome of this assault…






Long Term Goals:


Though depending a lot on the theatre of war at Kalar Thaanos would try to grow in Westmarch with or without help of their newly found alliance with those of the Green Chasm, with whom they would try to further increase their relationships, aiding them when needed, if needed.


Weither it be by faith or force, even just influence, the main plan was to take an important role in Westmarch.


If the city of Kalar would eventually be captured it would be renamed Tharer, like it had previously been renamed Kalar from Zarer. In order to show under whose domain it would be. In order to keep it under control Queen Wyna would have her sister, Princess Malisa, marry one of the Kalarian nobles, one of the bigger houses that had existed even before it turned to a Republic. This was much to the dislike of Malisa at first, who, for the first few years of this unwilling marriage eventually fell in love with her husband. (Wether Kalar was taken or not, Malisa would still eventually fall into the same fate through a forced marriage planned by her sister.)


Wyna did however know not to meddle in Erendor or the Great Hold too much, even if they were considered to be within the Westmarch domains they were expected to return to their Ecclestian overlords eventually. This especially seeming likely from Erendor as it was on the border already, with its ruler pleading for help in Azeratii. As much as Wyna and a lot of Westmarchians had a distaste for the Ecclestians, they each knew they could not win a war against them, even the fight for Kalar would be risky enough.


An attempt would also eventually be made to create a crown of Westmarch, as the actual title of Petty Queen of Thaanos did not sound adequate, however this also depended on how far the petty Kingdom could come in its expansion.


The Thaanosian beliefs would also be reformed quite a few times during the next century. The Archbishops gaining more power, maybe not quite as much as the Thaanosian rulers would have but it would not be too far fetched. The holy order would have a set amount of warriors within it, the first thousand would be that set mark. They were to be elite warriors, trained and training the next generations.


One of the most important points would be to see the castle of Thaanos restored in its former glory. For the Broken Tower no longer to be broken. For the broken walls to be repaired. Part of this would be helped to be paid for by the church, as it protected the Archbishops as much as it would the Aingaels.


With Queen Wyna eventually dying to her own madness being most likely, her sister would inherit the throne. With her rule being secured with her giving birth to three children out of the originally unprosperous marriage. Two would be sons, one a daughter. The sons would be named Balfour and Maut as for her daughter being given the namesake of her sister, Wyna.

Whilst all or none of these things might happen I want to thank Bishop for hosting the game. I tried pouring my creative mind into it this time even going as far as to (horribly) draw a few important characters, signs and sites. I will be sad to see it go. FOR THAANOS! #ThaanosForAgorath

 

[BlackBishop]

Spoiler: Kalar's 5yr Plan

Subject to unwarranted aggression from the Kingdom of Ecclestius, the Republic of Kalar attempts to cement diplomatic relationships in order to secure its future against the mad king Varian. With a treaty signed, both sides agree to cease expansion of their respective fleets, while Kalar allows free trade with Azeratii. Emissaries are dispatched to neighboring Thaanos, Great Hold, and Erendor in an attempt to unite Westmarch against Ecclestius. An ambassador is also installed in the court of Queen Narien to promote amiable relations between the two realms, and to spy on Ecclestius from the friendly court.

The treaty with Ecclestius causes a considerable strain on the economy of Kalar. It is discovered that the old nobility had been receiving payments from Varian in an attempt to curry favour. In response, the Kalar Assembly seizes control of the western mines, previously held by the aristocratic families. The move alleviates much of the economic concerns, but angers the nobles of the city.

Forewarned of troop movements from their spies in Galadriel, Kalar learn that King Varian seeks the conquest of Norseland. Confident Ecclestius will now be busy with dealing with the Norse for the foreseeable future, they begin quietly building up their navy once again. Some ships are sent to Hroniden to aid them in their defense of the Amenra Delta in order to win favor among the emirates, while the rest guard the Kalar coast.

Up until now, Kalar had been moving for a formal alliance with the Kingdom of Thaanos, embracing their Way of Weapons and unfettered trade between the two realms. However, just as preparations are being made to openly defy the treaty with Ecclestius, Kalar is betrayed. First Citizen Picelle Tyrett, leading a delegation of prominent Assembly members, accepts an invitation from Thaanos, looking to finally officially declare an alliance. Instead, the delegation is viciously attacked, and Tyrett and most of the delegation is slain.

Before the city realizes what has happened to their leader and officals, infiltrators from Thaanos breach the city, and set fire to much of the Kalar fleet, and cause chaos within the city. The nobility takes the opportunity to seize control of what's left of the nobility and appoint a dictator with supreme power over the city-state. The walls are ordered secured against the approaching Kalar army as kill squads root out any Thaanosians and have them slain.

The ambassador in Galadriel appeals to Queen Nienna for aid, and requests Therain Eylinn dissolves her alliance with Thaanos. The Dictator of Kalar will use whatever diplomatic capital he has, calling on his friends in Great Hold and Erendor to aid, as well as in Hroniden. Levies will be raised from the townships outside the city walls if they can to harrass Thaanosian forces and disrupt their supply lines. Meanwhile, Kalar will keep its port open to speed supplies into the city so that they may withstand the Thaanosian siege indefinately.

Once the besiegers are significantly exhausted, and their supplies dwindled, sorties will be launched, with heavy horse riding down the Thaanosian brigands. After the enemy army is broken, a white peace will be offered, with a total tribute of 100,000, paid in affordable installments. Should the murderous Queen Wyna reject this offer, a counter attack will ensue, where a large host will invade Thaanos, scorching as they make their way to the Thaanosian stronghold. Thaanos Castle will be surrounded and besieged, with one final attempt at peace made. Further refusal and the castle will be pillaged, its batltements dismantled, and Queen Wyna hung before her enchained court.

Terms will be levied upon each successor along the line until accepted, with each refusal met with the same fate as Wyna.

The war with Thaanos delaying any challenge to Ecclestius, a delegation will be sent to the court of King Varian instead, where the terms will be renegotiated to allow a measured build up of naval forces from before the war. Whether Varian agrees or not, the build up will continue, and if Varian protests, the treaty will be ripped up, and his merchants charged tariffs henceforth.

After the war with Thaanos, Kalar will henceforth be known as Zarer once again, and return to a feudal monarchy. The Norse usurpers will be exiled, with only those of skill allowed to remain. The Assembly will be maintained as an informal body of lords to advise the king. The failures of the Norse led assembly will be brought forward to convince the people of the city-state that republicanism brought only weakness, and it wasn't until the monarchy was restored, did strength return.

Glory to Westmarch, Glory to Zarer!

((Unedited with only Thaanos, and perhaps a secret dispatch from another, read before writing. Consider this a rough draft with responses to other orders pending.))