As always it was the Vazin's job to sort the diplomacy, the Visors' job to fill out the paperwork. The past months had been taxing; entertaining two different diplomatic parties and attempting to come to some kind of agreement was not an easy task. This, coupled with the worrying reports of crop failure in the eastern villages had culminated in a near constant migraine for the Vazin's right hand man. The weeks following Cyth'rul's message had been hard enough, numerous proclamations and calls for calm. In time the people settled down; those who made their deals did so in secret, those who wanted no part of the Gods kept their heads down and their work strong.
Finalising the deal with Ray-Das was dull work, however it was simple with clear profit at the end. What interested Sarpha was the Vazin's new desire for expansion; for the first time in recorded history Ajivha planned to form a new town, a new city. The job of managing this new settlement had been given to him alone. Naturally it was a logistical nightmare; convincing a people like the Ajivhans to settle and new land was akin to convincing a desert wanderer to eat salt. To maintain calm only those involved knew of the plan lest the people riot, it had been a nightmare just getting a group of scouts together without the public catching wind.
Finally they group had been assemble; 30 men, each a master of his craft able to survey the potential of the new land. Joining them soon would be the shipwrights from Lot-Vos. Soon they could begin.
This was his job. He was going to see it through.
1. Diplomatic agreement with Ray-Das
2. ???
3. Send scouts north to the shore and the mountains in search of suitable land to settle
?Sir, the guests have arrived. They brought your entertainment for the month.?
Lord Thallus was sitting in his chambers, moans and echoes could be heard throughout his house. His butler, who had long since been forced to give up his name in exchange for his title, was speaking as loud as he could to get his Lord's attention. The new guests were several young ladies that the Lord liked to ?break in? as he would call it. Naturally, the Butler would never elaborate beyond this, simply that the Lord would eventually sell these slaves to various brothels that he had good relationships with.
What was strange, however, was that this was not the typical escort for the slaves. This man was strangely obscured, draped in heavy clothing, no flesh displayed. The Butler welcomed the slaves in, but stopped as the escort began to step in.
?I'm sorry sir, but this is as far as I can let you in. Rest assured, we shall take great care of these two.?
The figure stopped for a moment, and a female voice came from inside. ?The Lord has missed several payments now, I am to talk to him and receive payment.?
The Butler stopped for a moment, and realized the seriousness of the situation. ?I am...sure we could work this out between the two of us m'am, there is no reason to disturb him. I mean-.
A quick flare came out of the figure and a blade whizzed by the Butler, nearly missing his head. He collapsed to the ground, realizing he was outmatched. ?Please, don't hurt us.?
?I won't.? The gruff voice stated as she walked towards the quarters of Lord Thallus, slaves in tow.
The Lord Thallus was just exiting his grand display, as he liked to call it. Dozens of methods he had to induce pleasure were racing around the room as he listened to the choir they induced. He was draped in robes simple for a noble, but entirely unaffordable for anyone else. As he navigated the halls, he reached the figure and her two slaves and stopped. ?My butler usually takes the new ones to me...where is he?? The lord seemed confused, but not suspicious yet.
The voice spoke and said ?He was, busy last we entered, and simply showed us the way.?
?Well, that's entirely improper, I will have to teach him a lesson then.? The lord cracked his knuckles and approached the two new slaves, examining them. They both shuddered as he stroked their hair and pinched their cheeks. ?I think they will do quite nicely. The payment is in the back as per the usual.?
With that, the robed figure nodded and stated. ?We have to discuss something first, the guild has run into an impasse with authorities lately. If you would come with me, we could discuss your options.?
Lord Thallus raised his eyebrow at that, almost shocked when he heard what voice came from the robed figure, but then chuckled a bit and said ?Of course, let us come to my more private quarters.?
As the two walked in silence, the Lord had the largest grin on his face and mused to himself. ?So what made the guild send you here? I wonder, I wonder.? They finally approached the end of the hallway, up to a dead end and the figure stated, ?What are we doing here? I doubt these are your quarters, do not waste my time?.
Thallus shrugged and said, ?The guild and I broke connections about a month ago, something about assassins murdering key members in horrible fiery deaths.? He stamped on the ground and the floor shot from under the figure. She grabbed on to the ledge, but barely seemed to hold on. ?I had to consider the possibility that another assassin might come for me, so I prepared this little trap. Leads to my dungeon. Impressive, no??
The figure reached for a dagger and stuck it in the floor, beginning to climb out of the floor as Lord Thallus kicked her head, causing the figure to go falling into the abyss. ?Good to see you again, Katalia.?
As Katalia sat in the pitch black darkness alone. Rumblings from upstairs were audible, the guards of the estate were discussing what to do with her. Horrible ideas emerged, including a second branding, which made her shudder. This wasn't the plan, damn it, Thallus had gotten her again, and this time she didn't know if she could get out.
Katalia cursed and screamed into the darkness, her feet and hands were bound by chains and her weapons removed. She was naked, but nobody would be able to tell that in the dark. It was then, that a voice responded to her screams, it was unlike anything that came from the castle.
?You wish to end this man's life?? It mused, seeming almost a step away from laughing.
Katalia spit onto the ground and said ?After everything he did to me, I want to do a lot more than that.?
The voice stopped for a moment, and Lysei materialized in front of Katalia. Her eyes went wide as his flame-bound form stared into her eyes. ?I have come here to offer you a deal. You become my weaver, destroying countless people like Thallus, and I will grant you your vengeance.? Lysei stuck out a single gauntleted hand. The light emanating from it revealing Katalia's fiery red hair and branded face. ?Deal??
Katalia with little hesitation reached and grabbed the fire-lord's hand. ?I don't know who you are, but I don't have much choice now. Deal.?
Lysei grabbed onto Katalia's arm and runic symbols began to burn themselves into her flesh. She screamed in horrible agony as her flesh became charred. It was beyond any pain she had ever felt. Lysei yelled to her ?Do not let the pain consume you. This is your trial, Katalia, withstand it.?
Katalia could hardly even hear the god as she yelled out in defiance. Rattling her chains and causing them to strain. The markings had gone all across her body now, and were reaching her face. She clawed at them but it did nothing. The fire reached her eyes, everything turned a bright white, but it stopped burning. In fact, everything stopped burning. Katalia blinked a few times and the darkness returned, the god was gone, and she was alone again. Had it all just been a dream?
Katalia reached for her chains, but found them to be broken, bits of them melted at the edges. She began to inspect the chains, but as she did, a flicker of flames began to follow her fingers. In fact, every time she moved them, a string of bright white plasma followed. She entertained it for a moment, then, almost as if it were natural, fired a line towards the wall. The line made a deep cut, and went at least half way through. Part of the rock had melted and the room glowed for a moment. Katalia realized with this, that her robes were placed on the ground, neatly, as if they were a gift. The robes had a note on them, and the note read as such: Katalia, I know this is sudden, but your vengeance is at hand, go upstairs and grab it.
Katalia quickly put on her garments and smirked. Several lines of flames stretching from her fingers. She walked up many stairs and reached the door. Guards on the other side would have seen several hot lines breach the door for a second, before being cut to ribbons themselves. Katalia came through the door, yelling. ?Thallus! The gods themselves come for you now!?
That night, Thallus' manor was filled with screams, but quite unlike the type it usually was filled with. Now, its master would feel the full wrath of his own creations. Word would come back that his manor had been burned to the ground, and his slaves liberated. One of many instances of nobility being murdered outright.
Lysei looked over the smoldering ruins, and found Katalia grasping the corpse of Thallus. Contempt in her eyes. She had burned everything around her, but the flames did not harm her. Lysei spoke with an unusual kindness in his voice. ?Weaver, you have done well. But we must go. The town guards might come soon, and they do not deserve the same death you have given to this man.?
Katalia looked up into Lysei's visage. There was no face to be seen, just blackness. She dropped Thallus' corpse and asked, ?What...now??
Lysei smiled. ?You do what you wish, I have granted you this form, immortal as I am, though not invincible. I trust your decision making. I doubt you will disappoint me Katalia, Weaver of the Inferno.?
Lysei faded from Katalia's gaze. She could see torches in the distance, people were yelling out for any survivors. Katalia headed in the opposite direction, towards the forest.
Create the Weaver of the Inferno. A unique creature.
Cyth'raul, Mountains to the North of the Deep Tribes - 12/15 AP
Things were going well, and Cyth'raul's grin grew.
"I understand. Guide my Tribe, Cyth'raul, and I will make sure those who follow me...will also follow you. This I swear."
Indeed, that was certainly more like it.
And so the god floated around the golden ones, sending whispers which would instruct them on the matter of settling, blessing them with knowledge. They would be marked for a awhile, just a subtle circle on their shoulder.
"Take the ones I have marked, they will be your settlers." The deity replied.
Place or remove a blessing/curse on a small group of mortals (less than 50) for their entire lives.
DC: 7
Bonus: [+2] Guidance.
"So we offer you information in exchange of simple friendship for both of our nations."
"That is certainly more of an enticing offer." Lew'pan smiled and he bowed once more. "I am sure that this is worthy of the Supreme's consideration. If you will excuse me, I will bring this to his attention." With a curt nod, Lew'pan left the diplomat alone in the hall as he traveled deep into the mountain to bring word of this proposal to Budraal, who Lew'pan found still brooding after his talks with Jugaan and Os'lan.
After discussing the details, Budraal nodded in agreement. "We could use these 'Raptor States' specialties to our advantage...though I am not fond of handing over so much for a promise. Return to the diplomat with new terms, and see how she responds." Lew'pan respectfully bowed and quickly returned to the diplomat with Budraal's stipulations.
1. In return for an immediate payment of 1 wealth, the Raptor States will divulge all that they know about a specific nation.
2. In return for an immediate payment of 2 wealth, the Raptor States will provide direct assistance through an espionage action.
Highcrag-Den of Jugaan
"Take the ones I have marked, they will be your settlers."
"Very well." Jugaan nodded in acknowledgement to the empty space of her den, unaware if the "god" was there with her. Regardless she immediately sent the word throughout the Gold Tribe, all those bearing Cyth'raul's mark were to gather supplies and ready themselves to an expedition to the northern mountains.
2. Rearrange Treaty Terms with the Raptor States.
3. Attempt to settle the mountains to the north.
Yvera looked upon the new terms as simple as they were. This looked to be just what Gora was looking for and knowing Gora, the Krakar always had a plan or so she believed. The Krakaris always had a natural gift for espionage and they might as well use it to their advantage. It was no use squandering it away for free.
"I must inform you that even though we may fly, it takes time to put an agent into place. If you are willing to wait, the secrets will be much juicer. I give you my word as a representative of the Raptor States that we will always fulfill our end of the deal." Yvera announced before bowing to the Luug. "Otherwise these terms are reasonable. I will relay them to my superiors but consider this deal agreed upon." She tucked the parchment neatly away.
"I humbly ask your permission for me to stay here so that I may relay any desires your Supreme has with my nation and to oversee any future transactions. It is merely a courtesy for my nation to do so." Yvera said politely.
"I humbly ask your permission for me to stay here so that I may relay any desires your Supreme has with my nation and to oversee any future transactions. It is merely a courtesy for my nation to do so."
"I see no reason this can not be arranged. I will see that appropriate lodgings are made for you...they will have to be freshly dug as I assume you would want something closer to the surface..." Lew'pan bowed and left the Diplomat as he searched for more heavy-set Glass Shifters to begin work on a small den for the Krakari. As the diplomat waited, a new cave within the city was dug, opening up to the surface in an attempt to accommodate her.
" I will see that appropriate lodgings are made for you...they will have to be freshly dug as I assume you would want something closer to the surface..."
"Thank you very much." Yvera said as the Luug left but soon enough he returned to show her to a small den that they freshly dug. It opened to the surface which was a pleasant surprise. The sun shone through the opening and the den was enough to accommodate her.. It was no estate but it was a nice a change of pace which was one of the reasons why she thanked Gora for such a position. "Give my thanks to your Supreme and it was a pleasure doing business with you."
Her patience was well rewarded, as soon an envoy, not of one of the small tribes or bands of wanderers, but of the great Raptor States arrived in her hall. With luck this meeting could benefit both parties, after all neither the praise of a nation or the power of a goddess were to be scoffed at.
The children Gangari touched were truly blessed, their young minds quickly proving inquisitive and creative beyond the norm. It would take time before they were old enough to truly affect the world with their growing genius, but when that time came it was certain they would prove great innovators and philosophers the likes Sammah Ajivha-Tahna had rarely seen.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Jashiki
The designs unfolded beautifully inside Ber-Sam's mind, and the god of water was able to watch satisfied as the efforts of the Ray-Das craftsmen soon made the vision a reality. If not his full power his ingenuity and ability to guide had been clearly shown.
Cyth'raul's advice settled poorly on them and they heard it in their minds as garbled nonsense, still they attempted to follow the instructions as best they could in spite of their eventually clear futility and wastefulness. The settlement succeeded but only by the hard work of the settlers overcoming the initial mistakes of shoddy construction and poor organization.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ray-Das
The Settlers from Ray-Das found the lush coastal forests to the south quite hospitable, to the east they had great difficulties though, and in the end one of their two groups proved to be ill equipped and under supplied, and so was forced to turn back. Unfortunately Ray-Das's supplies were beginning to run short, the settlers had required a great deal of the young nations supplies to set out, and in the heart of the young nation worries were beginning to spread that those eager for expansion were endangering the nation. Others still though felt such concerns were shortsighted, and the unrest was far from overwhelming.
The scouts who had covered the land to the south were among the first to join the settling effort, and their enthusiasm and preparedness made up for their inexperience. Soon a new flourishing settlement had risen in the south, and few could question the wisdom of creating it.
In the meantime the watchtowers went up across the nation, well concealed among the trees and well staffed with trained Yish'Tai. For the moment there was little call for their efforts though, and those stationed in the tower spent much of their time practicing their aim or telling stories.
Briln quickly discovered the difficulties of digging deep, hitting hard packed earth that refused to budge, and on other attempts wet earth that filled his holes as quickly as he made them. Tired from the effort he eventually set the idea aside for the time being.
In the meantime the worship of Cyth'raul spread across the nation, and Yish'tai happily added him to the list of spirits they gave praise to. Unlike those spirits though Cyth'raul had substance, and strength that would grow with their support.
The scouts had far greater luck this time, the storm had long since passed and the wind this time was with them in their flight. They soared over the land below and charted it, finding the hazards and sheltered spots that were important to their people, and swiftly returning to make their report, this time unscathed. Unfortunately the researchers of the States proved less successful, unable to make much progress over their internal divisions and squabbles, and in the end producing no new knowledge that could be used.
The same winds that carried the scouts carried the Krakari spy to the lands across the sea, by wing and by boat he soon arrived in Lot-Vos. Unassuming as he was he had little trouble finding a place where secrets would begin to flow freely to him, so that he could pick out the choicest ones and send them home.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Aurora
Though better prepared than before the supplies could not make up for the heavy hearts of the settlers, they were well aware of the failure of the first two expeditions and the jungle was not the easiest land to settle, their loyalty was great but so too was their worry. In the end the disheartened settlers met with failure again, and returned home in shame.
The scouts were as reluctant to seek new land as the people of Sammah were to settle it, and put forth a lackluster effort. Wearied by homesickness they soon returned to Grand Ajihva their task unsatisfactorily concluded. The weeks were not filled wholly with bad news though, the treaty with Ray-Das was well received by all, and the techniques for working the new ore far outstripped what they had developed so far, the new metal was hard and strong, all that remained was to arm themselves with it.
Though with reluctance in places the moss growing techniques spread quickly, their effectiveness quashing any doubts or animosity. The tribes would benefit greatly as a result, as time was certain to tell. In the meantime the annointed settlers made their way to the north, the land was hard and the supposed blessing only made things harder for them, but they persevered, unwilling to be called failures after having been selected by a god, and by their efforts a new settlement was established.
After imparting the information to Ber-sam Jashiki disappeared. Going from the room with her to the oceans beyond the harbor in an instant he let himself drop to the bottom of the ocean as he considered.
I need to do something impressive to earn the trust and admiration of the people of Ray-Das. While I'm sure something like taking down a wall would earn it, i wonder what else i could do to help them believe in me.
Sitting at the bottom of the ocean as he things Jashiki shakes his head slightly and lets himself float through the waters of the ocean, not directing where he is going. Staying mostly on the bottom but a few times a current taking him within a few few hundred feet of the surface. The whole time he is floating Jashiki thinks to himself. The Ray-das will worship me, the ships and whatever i come up with to impress them will make that happen. But the rest of the world doesn't know of me yet, by deed or action. I need something... Grand. Something new to this world which all can look at and know it was made by a god.
Opening his eyes and stopping his drifting in the ocean Jashiki can see a form of a creature building in his head. As more and more of it builds in his head he lets its body come more into focus he started thinking over its instincts and how it would live. Frowning as more of what he wanted came into realization he came to realize that even as a god he would need help making this thought into reality. Thinking over how much power would be needed to create this creature and all its instincts Jashiki sighed at not being able to create it himself but knew he would probably fail if he tried.
Floating to the surface of the ocean and standing on it Jashiki talks into the air, but doing it in a way so normal mortals wouldn't be able to hear it. While all gods in the world would be able to hear it, and hopefully respond.
"gods of this world, I wish to create a species and release it into the world. I already have the basics on how it will both look and act but I fear I don't have the power to do it alone. All of you who wish to help, if something about these creatures you wish to change tell me and let us figure out what to do."
Standing still after sending out the message into the world Jashiki also forms a mental picture of the creature, everything about it. Sending it out after the message so all the gods would know what he is trying to create and what they would be helping to create.
running 25 mph, Speed in water 50 mph.
Size: 20-30 feet long from snout to romp, the tail is an additional 10-15 feet .
Weight: 8-12 tons.
Can breathe water and air indefinitely
Depth tolerance of 8 miles
Night-vision 4,000 feet
these jet black sea serpents are seen to be covered in large, black, blue-black or charcoal gray scales, their eerie yellow eyes glowing much like a cat's. Their hands and feet are webbed and tipped with wicked, black talons and their tail is covered in spikes like a stegosaurus
---------------------
Carnivore.
the larger teeth in his mouth over 2 feet long to hold onto the thing being bit while the smaller teeth shred into creature
lives their entire life with at least one major deep water source inside their territory.
life time of 10 years.
mating period of 1 month a year with a only 2 eggs possible during that time. takes a full year to grow inside the eggs.
males are extremely territorial, area of 3-4 miles usually with a cave somewhere in the middle. also large area of water or something very deep.
Able to dig a cave for themselves if a natural one is unavailable using their developed and powerful forearms.
life long mating pairs.
can store energy from eating in their tail, making it bulk up. Can go for weeks without eating if they gorged on enough before.
Females are 20% smaller, that much faster, and when protecting their eggs more vicious than the males. They stay in the cave and rarely go out hunting because they almost always one or 2 eggs in the cave to be guarded. the male bringing food back, or something wondering close to the cave being snatched.
Egg's take a year to hatch, and it takes 1.2 years for the creature to grow all the way up. When they grow up they are chased out of the cave by their parents and have to find their own place.
the top of the mouth is its softest spot, a sword pushed into there if fighting it will pierce its brain and kill it instantly.
Behind the flare on the spikes on its head but under the scales is a gem which is created when they are still in the egg and grows as the creature grows. It is much like pearls but larger and with more colors. At the end of their lifetime its the size of 2 fists.
The huntress and her two escorts took one last look behind them as they left the Marshes behind them and entered into the open fields. Mounted on sturdy Elk, they carried with them numerous pelts and goods that would be needed, both for the journey and for diplomacy. Having decided to open negotiations with the Deep Tribe, rather than attend the Marshlight Festival, Shiva was understandably apathetic.
"Are you sure you want to go, Shiva? Alcrik would be-"
Shiva turned and shot the man a terrifying look. While it was common knowledge that Alcrik was among the most persuasive of the Yish'Tai, nobody had succeeded in persuading Shiva to enlist his help instead. Thumbing her dagger, she spoke in a low and venemous tone.
"Alcrik is no hunter. These people are among the most fearsome warriors; I figure they'll show a hunter somewhat more respect. Any more questions?"
The man simply shrugged, and they left at sundown, galloping across the fields to the mountainous unknown...
Outside Highcrag
Shiva and her consorts led their elk by hand as they ascended the strange mountain. The forest itself had been dry and somewhat crunchy underfoot; a strange shift from what they were used to. Approaching what appeared to be a marked tunnel, Shiva called out in what she hoped was the common tongue, throwing her voice down into the tunnel.
"I seek audience with the Deep Tribes. I am Shiva, from Rok'lo Sha."
Alcrik, New Tarmenos
Alcrik clapped and sang heartily with the other elders as the youth of the new village danced in the traditional circle, their ceremonial clothes spinning, catching the firelight and throwing writhing shadows against the newly erected buildings. The foundation and settlement of New Tarmenos had been a complete success, and Alcrik was incredibly pleased; both with himself and his fellow citizens.
The full moon shone bright through the trees as the Marshlight Festivities got under way. The fabled will-o-wisps could be seen dancing in the far marsh, though all Yish'tai knew better than to follow them. While some still revered them as ancient spirits or ancestors, many of the citizens had burned incense in the name of Cyth'Raul, at Alcrik's suggestion.
Backing out of the main festival, Alcrik weaved through the numerous decorative flags and shrines to find his temporary abode; a hastily erected tent and campfire; now bedecked in colours and symbols by the town children. Sighing, he entered anyway, before adopting a meditative posture, and focusing his mind. It was now time for Cyth'Raul to repay him, lest the God's new followers turn wrathful.
"You have your followers, Cyth'Raul. I now ask for trade vessels; ships large enough to transport goods and people across the ocean. Procurement of a handful of these, or the knowledge how to make them, would be appreciated."
Briln, Aret
Deeply frustrated with his continued failure, Briln hauled himself out of the most recently collapsed pit, covered head to toe in mud. He had been working for days with little rest and food, and his body shook with the effort. Collapsing out of breath next to the pit, he looked up at a small gap between the trees to the moon. The sounds of the festival underway filtered towards him, the beating drums and rhythmic chanting. Briln new of a particular girl whom he knew would be in the main dance circle; Umbra, whose slender figure and raven hair had enchanted him for some time.
Yet the youth had forsaken all hope of a rendevous with her; instead grabbing an assortment of strange rocks he had uncovered while digging the pits and hauling them to back to his workshop. He had seen what happened to certain minerals when accidentally kicked into a hot flame over time, and hoped to replicate it in the hopes of salvaging something useful from his failed endeavor.
Heating the fire-pit by enclosing it and throwing heavy logs underneath, he threw the rocks into the fire and collapsed next to it, drawing a heavy cloth over himself, and falling asleep.
Send a diplomat to Highcrag.
Research a new technology; Metal-working.
???
Rumour finds wings on the plains, especially rumour of the divine. Though they had no god to call there own the Ajivhans (at least those beyond the city walls) maintained a strong belief in spirits, particularly those of the desert. Over the past year stories had been told; those of a white faced foreigner seeking shelter for the night. What happens after was unclear.
Some villages were fearful; Zuci-Danava, the White Demon. Here stories were all the same; a kindly old man seeking shelter who would wither your crops and bring suffering upon your house. Zuci-Danava has travel from village to village, house to house, even those unaffected by his journey knew neighbours who had been.
'What do we do?' they said 'lest Zuci-Danava seek refuge in our homes?'
'Simply reject him' Said others 'Do not let him over your threshold'
'But he has given us a Job, we cannot refuse him.
'Then we shall build homes for him, Grha where he may find a bed and some food. Appease him with offerings in the hope he says away.'
And so they set to work. As the year progressed the custom spread; villages began to construct Grha for Zuci-Danava, small wooden structures large enough for a man to take his rest. Each had an attendant, one to keep offerings fresh and the bed empty. Unknowingly the Ajivhans had created shrines to a god.
However, for every village in fear there was one in reverence. Zuci-Gangari, he who had come to their home an blessed their children. After a visit from Gangari the children changed, an aura of calm and knowledge surrounding them, though unclear in purpose it was unmistakably divine. Where the others built shrines to keep the god appeased these houses simply gave him tribute on the fire; the finest cut of meat on the table or a libation of wine. Simple acts of thanks for the gift they had been given, one that none of them understood.
Grand Ajivha: Palace of the Vazin
The news was grim; scouts sent to the north had lost the will to journey, returning home with heads hung low. They had failed their Job.
An order from the Visor could not be ignored, failure was an impossibility. After a quick deliberations an ultimatum was given; head out once again, failure ends in death. Though seemingly harsh there was a cold logic to it, Sammah Ajivha needed that settlement, otherwise everything was ruined.
Grand Ajivha: Bureau of Design and Development Grhak Arakha, Chief of construction
Today was a good day. Orders had come in from on high, the Vazin needed his Bureau for a Job, one paramount to the future of his people. Any Ajivhan lived to serve his city, now was Grhak's chance.
First he was to outfit the soldiers of the city with weapons,the blacksmiths with materials. After a recent trade with some foreigners Sammah Ajivha had acquired new ore and metals, perfect for combat and construction. The job was simple in theory however mass outfitting would take some times.
The next two Jobs were far more interesting. The Vazin needed a bow. A very big bow. A bow big enough to pierce through a rank of soldiers or the hull of a ship. Grhak was unsure why, Sammah Ajivha had never been under threat from anything more than simple bandits, even those nations which lay beyond the desert had remained peaceful all these year. Nevertheless a bow the Vazin wanted and a bow the Vazin was going to get. The other Job was not as vital, his work on it amounted to some simple sketches and a request to the Guild of Stonemasons. IN time it would prove interesting but right now his priority was the bow.
Grhak's orders were simple; he was to be locked in his tower with some wood and string, not the be let out until his bow was of suitable size. Food was to be left at the door alongside stale bread-sticks for ammunition, it was going to be a fun few months.
Dispatch scouts to the north shore
Implement iron
Begin research into ballistas
Begin worship of Gangari (not a state religion just small groups of people)
"Excellent news." Aerya said as Farko detailed his scouts' successful mission down south. This time, the wind favored them and carried the group far allowing them to chart the area rather well. Now that the mission was a success they had to follow through. "Now that we know the area, we may now settle it. I propose that we settle these new lands to benefit our people. We cannot stay in this valley forever and those lands offer much more for our future generations. There is much work to be done but if done right then it will benefit our nation for generations to come. Who agrees?"
A wave of agreement surged through the hall and among the families. Before, Aerya had made a point in branching out and settling beyond their lands but now it seemed more like a reality. She let them settle before speaking once again. Aerya was never one to let go of the momentum she had.
"We must also make sure those lands are secure so I shall send a garrison of my own forces to accompany the settlers to make sure that no harm befalls them. Have no worries for your families as the Aquilas will make sure no trouble goes their way." Farko raised his brow to this statement but otherwise it drew no ire from the families. Security of their interests was always a good way to ring in the wary Krakaris.
"The Strix will also lend their soldiers to your cause." Jaherys spoke out. "Even if your troops are the most numerous, even they must not be stretched thin. Let us ease the burden."
"Your offer is kind and will not be forgotten." Aerya nodded to Jaherys. "How goes your granddaughter? Any word from her yet?"
"The envoy reached the building but otherwise they haven't written back. I hope they do quite soon." Jaherys said, concealing a look of worry almost perfectly.
"We do not need to worry about the well beings of our own so close to our home. If there are new Gods then I doubt they would do anything to any potential followers." Aerya said.
"With all this internal mobilization, shouldn't we do something about our trading partners?" Gora finally spoke out as smug as always. Jaherys and Farko glanced over to the Krakar but he had a point. "It has been a while since we attended to them."
"That is correct. We should have paid attention to our foreign policies and we have started with the Deep Tribes when we should have looked closely to our friends in the east and the south." Farko agreed. "They will be where the most needed help will be in times of war. We have no reason to think ill of them for we have looked to them for years. I propose a diplomat to the Auroran Empire first. From what we have heard, they have trouble expanding."
"Perhaps we can give them the lands north then?" Jaherys mentioned. "We have much lands to the south and the east."
"And lose potential investment opportunities?" Gora said, voicing the elders that had some disagreement with Jaherys.
"Investment opportunities?" Jaherys hissed back. "What if our enemies come north then? What if they bypass the empire and land behind us with our eyes to the south? What of your investment then?"
"You give a dog a bite and the next thing you know, it wants the whole mutton." Gora retaliated. "And what if we do give them the lands north? They will want some more and more! They will want more land to give their god temples and what not. These humans are no different from us and judging from us, we always need more."
"Enough!" Aerya shouted. "I will side with Jaherys on this argument. We need allies to help us. The Aurorans rule the sea but even they can make mistakes. Whoever attacks will not attack Auroran land, for that is certain. I will send my own family's diplomat to Aurora as soon as possible. We will give them the offer of land for the security of the seas. Once we help the Luug, we will have both the land and seas covered while we rule the sky!"
"This is it..." She muttered as her party descended on the manor. Veka, Ovelo and Kalar were all experienced scouts and soldiers but none of them had seen such a building as this. Its unnatural structure brought unnatural dread on them all and the feeling of death permeated in the air heavily. The building was cold and dreary and that spread to the surrounding area as well. It was eerily cold and their breaths hung like dead men in the air. They spoke to the locals here the day before on their way up. When they took their water break, they spoke to villagers who lived in their small hovels. They spoke about the place in hushed whispers but they all mentioned the same thing.
"The Goddess of Death..." Veka muttered as he drew his arms closer. It kept getting colder the closer they approached the manor.
"Qartoq." Cawles corrected. If she was scared, it didn't appear so to the other scouts. She walked ahead albeit cautiously in case some unholy beast would spring forth if she stepped on the wrong rock. "I think we're close enough."
They were a few more strides to the front door and close enough to see the flames flicker off its torches who didn't seem to falter a single bit. They observed the manor for a few days and the torches never once died. Ovelo stepped forward, next to Cawles. He hesitated for a few moments, a loss for words but soon enough they came.
"Qartoq!" Ovelo called out. "We are r-representatives to the Raptor States. We humbly request your appearance."
(Major)Settle lands south
(Major)Garrison lands south
(Major) Send diplomat to Auroran Empire
Ber-Sam steeled herself, thinking through what she had experienced that night. She had already made sure it would be safe, and didn't delay another second. She strode out onto the walls, the sea breeze and morning sun combined to light her beautifully as almost all of the city cheered below. She waited for a few moments for the cheer to die down, before beginning her speech,
"People of the Ray-Das! Last night, something amazing happened. Jashiki, the God of Water and child of Trank-Mosta appeared! He told me of what happened to our old guider, but that he is here to lead us now. He could freeze the very air at will, or spin it around him, drawing the sea from it. He taught me a ship that was faster than anything we had now, and armed with the ballista that sit above me,"
"He truly is Trank-Mosta reborn. So from this day onwards, we shall praise our new god, Jas-Hiki, for he will crush our enemies when we next sail to raid. Glory to the fleet that see me safe!"
Her voice echoed then returned back to her, thousands picking up the call.
(Major) - Implement Technology (Ship (Ballista/Speed))
(Major) - ???
(Major) - Research Technology (Better Mining Techniques (Minecarts, Lifts etc.)) OR (Ballista, if they do not yet exist)
(Minor) - Encourage the worship of Jas-Hiki
(Minor) - Create a holiday (Jas-Hiki's Sail, a day of ship races, competitions and fights. Alongside feasts and such.)
Gangari, The plains of Sammah Ajivha-Tahna - 10/15 AP
Gangari awoke to a voice. Both like and unlike others he had heard before in his mind.
It was another entity, the third he had heard call out to the world.
This one addressing him and the others, if he hadn't heard of this one before and he hadn't exposed himself to them perhaps there were more doing the same.
The creature this Jashiki was proposing was odd, perhaps unwise, it would be better to stay out of that for now.
He shook the thought from his mind and looked upon his work, the children were learning, their minds expanding easily due to his influence.
He could see a divide forming though. In his state the month before he hadn't realized that he created an unintentional divide, he had missed some and blessed others. Some were calling him Zuci-Danava, the meaning escaped him though it was a name given by the families affected by his failure, they and their neighbours built shelter for him away from their homes, fear. Others were calling him Zuci-Gangari, though the prefix was shared with the other and unfamiliar he was gaining understanding of it. The families who's children he had blessed were calling him this, something close to his name and leaving, perhaps... offerings for him.
It felt as odd as it had all those years ago, but he felt it all the same.
He would try again to show that he was benevolent to the people who knew of him as Danava. He walked to the home of the family who had suffered the most from his failure. He knocked on the door, and as the man answered Gangari could see the fear on his face.
The man began to direct him to a "Grha" as they called them. But Gangari stopped the man and placed a bronze flask in his hands. The man looked at it with fear and Gangari reached out to the mans mind. He quickly implanted the knowledge of it's purpose and how to use it into the mans mind.
He looked into the scared man's eyes and simply said "Use it wisely" before walking away, seemingly fading into the air.
- Maintained a Physical Form.
- Spoke to Mortals.
- Created a Decanter of Endless Water. It is a large flask which produces infinite amounts of water once the stopper has been removed and a command word has been uttered. There are three currently known commands, each with differing effects. It can produce pure fresh water at a rate equal to what you expect from a vial it's size or at rate you would expect from a stream. In appearance it is made of a bronzelike material and is covered in runes similar to those on the Rubik's cube produced a turn earlier.
(Created a -2 or worse magic item, should be difficulty 5, with a cost of 1 AP.)
- Gave an Ajivhan farmer the Decanter of Endless Water.
- Imparted knowledge of how to operate the Decanter of Endless Water to an Ajivhan Farmer.
She was disappointed in the mortals, but perhaps her predeccessor had not been a popular deity. Either way, they'd pray to death when their lives were at stake. Qartoq considered using fear for a while, as the ghosts kept her company for the time that passed. Another god asked for help, and she could have aided him to inspire fear she thought.
Then, someone other than the occasional pauper or treasure hunter showed up. They stayed outside the manor. She watched them every now and then over the time that passed before they mustered up the courage to call out for her. Qartoq pondered how to appear before them, but decided to not waste too much time. Time was something she had difficulties getting a grasp of at the moment, and they might leave.
She let the gates of the manor swing open, slowly, and with appropriate noises. Qartoq stepped out from the darkness inside, onto the stairway and stared at the smaller mortals that had called for her. She was about the same height of one of the doors.
"So you do." Qartoq said. "I'm gladdened that some of those still alive are brave enough to come here to call upon death itself. I'd welcome company that's still alive. Now that I've only the dead."
She gestured for them to enter the mansion with her if they wanted too. "I suppose I should ask why you've come."
"So, the settlement was a success?" Jugaan joked as she eyes the small mound of iron ore brought back by a subordinate.
"Yes, Chieftain...however...there were complications." The subordinate's weak vibrations became almost undetectable as he backed away.
Jugaan gave him good reason to, her restrained quaking knocking dust from her den's ceiling. "Complications?"
"Yes...we followed your instructions to gather the marked one and send them north, but once they arrived, they said that they felt...confused. Like if they were receiving, and acting on, garbled instructions...like trying to speak in a mine."
"What?" Jugaan continued to show restraint, but her agitation made the subordinate back further up. "They...were confused?"
"Yes. A confusion that muddied their thoughts and made it difficult to act. It seemed as though the expedition only succeeded because of the leader's perseverance."
"I see..." Jugaan moved deeper into her den and relaxed her pose. "Then send my commendation of the expedition leader's action, tell whoever it may be that whatever spoils come out of the new mines for the next day is their's."
With a bow, the subordinate left. Once Jugaan felt alone, she spoke to the darkness. "Cyth'Raul, what is the meaning of this? I ask for guidance and my Tribe receives garbled nonsense!"
Highcrag-The Bare Road
"I seek audience with the Deep Tribes. I am Shiva, from Rok'lo Sha."
A low grumble came out of the cave, and soon two massive Luug (even by Luug standards) emerged from the tunnel. They both lacked the rocky back-crag of elders, but a pair of rocky scabs on their shoulders, sharpened to a point, showed that they were very capable of defending the entrance.
For a moment they stared at the strange visitors, giving no impression of their disposition towards them. Then, finally they spoke, in a broken form of the Common language that still was felt more than heard. "Why you want audience with the Tribes? The Tribes no have business with you."
The door opened of the manor opened slowly revealing Qartoq herself. She was a tall figure, human in appearance but Cawles figured that was the only thing they had in common. The Krakaris around her stayed in silence and hushed their gasps as the woman appeared before them. She talked to them and motioned for the party to enter the mansion. The group hesitated at first but it was Cawles who returned the gesture and strode forward. The party followed shortly.
"I suppose I should ask why you've come."
"We've come to see you, Qartoq." Cawles said first. The interior of the manor was as gloomy as the exterior but the long corridors and alleyways yielded little comfort. Its torches seemed endless and ethereal the farther they went in. It was hypnotizing to Cawles but she focused on the being in front of her. Here was her answers. "In our culture, the Krakaris didn't have a being representing death. Once we die, it is thought that the wings above sweep our souls into the sun. Now here we are with a being like you, a being of immense power. We seek answers, Qartoq. Our people are not paupers either and we are willing to pay for our answers."
As Lysei looked over Aurora, he could see that a new dawn was approaching. His methods, though harsh, would work. People could change, empires could spring to action and end the madness that is the cycle of slavery. Perhaps one day the entire institution would fall, and those of the under classes could rise up anew and live a more complete life. Today may not be this day, but tomorrow? It was even past Lysei's knowledge as to how this would go. One way or the other, he was no longer required in Aurora for the time being. Katalia could handle his duties and with both Kaius and Vallous working on the political fronts, the god's work was being done for him now. This meant it was time to operate elsewhere, and the Raptor states would be his next destination. The lands would be new, but one last gift had to be left by Lysei, if only as a remembrance.
The god of fire and vengeance pulled out of his pocket, an orb. It was perfectly round and had an amber glow about it. He decided to infuse it with his own powers, to allow it to scry the future. Any mortal who used it could, if conditions were right, look into his own future. The visions would be vague, but Lysei hoped it would give people something to look forward to. Make tomorrow all that much more real to them. If his guise could show emotion, it would give off a small smile as he cast the orb into the city. He would leave its fate to the populace, for it belonged to them.
Create a -2 or worse item: Orb of fiery reflection: +2 Flames. DC 5
"Well, obviously." She said in response to them coming to see her, and then lead them into a room with a long table. Qartoq situated herself at the end of the table. She made the other chairs around the table move out from it so the rest could sit down.
Qartoq summoned a feast onto the table for her guests to take part of if they wanted too. She assumed their stay outside the mansion had drained whatever supplies they'd brought with them. Meanwhile, she thought about what they had said about their belief of what happened when someone died. If her predeccessor had been more subtle it would explain why so few had shown respect to the new death, but then how was she to know. She wished she'd known this, and that she'd had a chance to meet the old death.
"Hmm, but what you seem to have are symbols in place of a being such as I." Qartoq finally said after an unknown amount of time had passed. "You mention "wings above" and the sun. My predecessor might not have shown themselves in the same way I do, but then I could show myself as they might have."
Qartoq changed her avatar a couple of times. First to grow huge black wings out of her already existing form, and then to shine as bright as the sun on a hot day. Although, she went back to her first avatar after doing this. "Your faith may not have changed, may not need to be changed with my appearance, but then change could be good. I'd only ask that you incorporate me in some way, as I'd grow stronger when worshiped and would be able to fulfill my task better. As you've seen I can be anything, but now that the old death is gone it serves no purpose to worship them instead of me. They do not exist here to show the way or answer prayers."
Qartoq was tempted by the offer of exchanging answers for riches. "I'd answer any questions any of your race may have, if they asked them in the form of prayers and offered me riches in return. I still have part of my mortal desires for gold and such it would seem. If I need them is another matter."
<spoiler=Action>Summon a small amount of something, change avatar.
Cyth'raul, Mountains to the North of the Deep Tribes → Around Rok'la Sha - 9/15 AP
The race known as the Luug seemed to have an exterior which was bulky and slow, the settler plodded along to their destination. As their minds? Picture an empty cavern. The Whisper In The Dark found that the subtle whispers of instruction simply, more or less, couldn't get through their thick skulls. Nevertheless, the deity did what it could to ensure success.
"Cyth'Raul, what is the meaning of this? I ask for guidance and my Tribe receives garbled nonsense!"
"Fear not, for the land is settled." Cyth'raul began, "Or was the assistance affected by dishonest thoughts? A contact with the Pactforger has more it than you can ever imagine."
Those words were nothing a hearty laugh with meaning attached.
"Have I not mentioned that the ones who call themselves the Yish'Tai of Rok'lo Sha hope to forge new trade routes?" The deity added.
Speaking of which...
"You have your followers, Cyth'Raul. I now ask for trade vessels; ships large enough to transport goods and people across the ocean. Procurement of a handful of these, or the knowledge how to make them, would be appreciated."
It was strange how the fish-like folk wanted to know how to sail the seas like gill-less, land-bound men but Cyth'raul could see wisdom there and was always happy to help a faithful friend. Ships slender and strong, the rush of waves and the cold mechanical muttering of how to build them. That is what filled the minds of the marshmen.
"Done. I expect this to be an extension of the last Pact, yes?" Cyth'raul replied.
Teach a technology or system of thought to mortals that will offer moderate benefits (Trade Boats) - DC: 9, +4 Guidance Bonus.
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