[Forum Game] Shadow of Gods and Empires

[BlackBishop]

Seso Ariza nodded respectfully.

"Indeed such an argument is not without merit, Princess. A sacrifice to Oranth would drive back the forces of Chaos, and bring a berserker spirit to warriors of valour, yet no boons to your coffers would you receive. The blood of oxen upon the Godswell is a good choice, a sound choice, and I would hope it would be a comfort as gold pieces slip through your fingers.

"To say the Pharaoh is not a friend to Wuldbreach wounds me. Ever and anon she has respected the sovereignty of the holy city and her domain. This year has been difficult for us all, as I'm sure you understand. Her bastard brother, emboldened by Chaos, mounts a rebellion and lays siege to the heartlands of the glorious empire. Our need is great, and by looking at the state of this city, so is yours."

 

[BlackBishop]

Seso Ariza
Caliph of Ugra, Grand Vizier of the Issira Empire​

Seso Ariza is a powerful figure within the court of the Pharaoh of the Issira Empire. Though several others hold the title of sultans, and wield greater armies and lands, Ariza makes up for this for his influence on the Pharaoh's council. The office of Grand Vizier is the empire's chief diplomat and administrator, making him the Pharaoh's right hand.

The Ariza dynasty rules over the Caliphate of Ugra, a small and particularly noteworthy territory in the heart of the Issiri Empire. Mostly comprised of badlands, with a small tract of fertile river valley, Ugra has long relied on the Pharaohs for protection. A direct vassal of the Pharaoh has given Seso, the patriarch of the dynasty, ample opportunity to exert his influence over the her, and propel him to one of the most powerful offices in the land.

Ariza had numerous dealings with the former council before Mankar's rebellion and through Archon Crypto Valeesan, has forged close ties between the empire and numerous noble families. Ariza has thus far overlooked Wuldbreach's close relationship with Great Canton, a rival state of the Issira sultanates.

The Caliph is confident of his empire's power and does not hesitate to use his homeland's strength for bargaining his position, though he is amiable enough when he gets his way, though when crossed, he makes for a merciless and relentless enemy.

 

[BlackBishop]

After Seso Ariza pleads his case, Eli Fara introduces Countess Ingrid Wagner of Venmont, emissary to the Emperor of Gothra. The Countess wears a flowing robe of deep read, with a sword upon her hip. Her hair is cut short and her blue eyes would be striking save for the ghastly scar cut across her face.

Ingrid Wagner
Countess of Venmont, Emissary of the Gothra Empire
(100 Sellswords, 1 ship)​

"Lords of Wuldbreach, I stand before you with the voice of the Emperor. The God-Talkers say Chaos reigns this year, and though Gothra remains strong, all throughout the world, evidence affirms those that walk the God-planes. Balance must be restored. I beseech you, my lords, to gather drakes upon the Godswell and sacrifice to Hydra, God of dragons and wisdom. Unlike others that may offer boons behind false smiles, I offer nothing. Only the truth.

"The One Eyed God struck Hydra blind, and now casting sight through falsehoods to see truth and wisdom is difficult. Like Hydra, us mortals too are blind. My God embodies the tenants of all the Gods, and his blessing will appease all your people, from highborn to low. You want a bountiful harvest, blessings in battle, profitable trade? You want Hydra.

"It too see Berkhart has weaseled his way into this holy hall. I warn you, Berkhart is not a moral man. He is wanted by the Emperor for the murder of the heir of Hwicce of Uppa Mans as well as several nobles. To deny this man amnesty and allow him into my custody will be seen as a personal favour to the Emperor."