Events for 1446

Eerith (+3): The Eerith find out who captured the King of the Wood, and that the King has entered the Omog. It also occures to them that the Ladies of the Ka'shari are apparently very interested in the Omog, and that the Ka'shari have been trying to contact Rahi.

Kaeir (-3): A severe storm hits the Kaeir navy executing the blockade around Tal. The storm drives flagship of the navy on rocks. The ship sinks, and draws with it 300 sailors, along with the Admiral of the navy.

Consequences

Port Kaeir

It was a stormy evening when the Senate assembled in the Republican Palace in Kingsbane Keep overlooking Port Kaeir. Lord-Consul Jafaarsan stood at the head of the Senate table, looking at the faces shadowed intermittently by the flickering lamps of the chamber of state, and the lightning outside. While he stood, the Senatorial Guard opened the doors to the chamber, letting in Lord-Senator von Kahshaar and his entourage. As Von Kahshaar settled in, Jafaarsan sat down and called the Senate to order.

Immediately Lord-Senator Balriq Talrayn, a son of Port Kaeir by Mirrish descent (though not a true Mirrish Creole), stood and immediately reminded the Senate why they had gathered at such a late hour.

"Lords of the Senate, we have endured ten years of war. The people grow weary, the Republic is secure. Cedonia has joined the republican fold, and Taltheran is torn apart by civil war. There is no benefit to us to join in this civil war in Taltheran. After all, we are Kaeirean, not Taltherani. What is worse, in this foolish endeavour supported by the Lord-Consul and the Commander of the Expeditionary Forces respectively has embarrassed us by our ineptitude. Even worse, Lord Admiral Gregor Ulricovic, the Admiral of the Seas is dead. One of the founding fathers of the Republic, one of the original conspiratorial triumvirate of the Revolution, is dead. Lord Basiluddin has retired from politics, and now our most experienced admiral is dead. Only Lord-Senator Cyril van Fitzlyri, much respect to you O Commander, continues his service in the Senate.

"As many of you know already, the Admiral of the Seas died in the blockade of Tal, when the Kaeirean Fleet was beset by a storm, and the flagship The Green Flag was driven on the rocks where it smashed, all hands aboard perishing. What most of you don't know, save Lord-Senator von Kahshaar there I wager", motioning towards the recently arrived Information Secretariat-General, "is that the Captains of the Fleet had already decided to lift anchor and return to Port Kaeir. They had delayed returning for two days, using the first to deliberate on a candidate for the new Admiral of the Seas, and the second to allow their fastest sloop to race ahead and inform the Senate of their decision before their arrival. I can only assume that the Captains, in their anger, have taken as their prerogative the right to choose the Admiral of the Seas. The question is whether we shall tolerate this", Lord-Senator Talrayn finished before resuming his seat.

Lord-Senator von Kahshaar echoed Talrayn from his seat, refusing to stand: "Talrayn is correct. We must decide whether this action should be tolerated. But we must also address the other question Talrayn mentioned - war and its consequences.

" I suggest that we accept the Fleet's candidate, though delay the public acceptance and confirmation of the candidate. After all, only the Senate may make executive appointments.

"As for the second question, with respect to the Lord-Consul, I urge peace as well. We only narrowly succeeded in the Tirmaeiri Campaign, and involvement in a protracted dispute in Taltheran would tax us unbearably. The cost of fighting even part of Taltheran would be unbearable in our current state of fatigue. Furthermore, the people I believe are becoming impatient. True peace is needed to restore prosperity and commerce, and to allow Kaeirean ships to enter Midsea ports safely as ships of trade.

"Thirdly though, I suggest we make a carefully worded suggestion to our comrades in Cedonia to aid the Saltrim Enclave in Taltheran. Cedonia would certainly benefit from involvement in Taltheran, and would help to counterbalance Mirrish influence in the North-East."

After Von Kahshaar, the Senators one by one stood, giving their opinion. Some argued for Von Kahshaar's stance, some against. As expected, the Basiluddinists urged for involvement in the Taltherani conflict, while the rest urged moderation. The Greens though were quite, having been taken by surprise with several of the issues at hand, and awaiting the opinion of the Consul.

"And what of the Lord-Consul?" piped the Lord-Mayor of Port Kaeir, "we have not heard from you, O Jafaarsan", looking at him fervently.

Finally, Jafaarsan stirred. He had not moved since he had first called the Senatorial session to order. He had sat, listening to the arguments and discussions of his peers. "Lord-Senators", he finally intoned, "Talrayn and Von Kahshaar are right. We have stretched ourselves too far. For ten years the Guard have been on campaign in some form, as has the Fleet. We have not known true peace since the Revolution. Youth have grown into manhood thinking war-time to be normalcy. Therefore I support the General-Secretariat's proposal regarding the fleet, and his proposal regarding peace. The loss of the Admiral of the Seas is great, but he died in a just cause and He Who Is One will reward him for that."

Across the table, a handful of senators murmured a reverant response, reminding the rest of the room of the new source of difference in the Senate.

"Superstition!", cried Lord-Senator Talrayn, his face twisted in rage.

"Ulricovic, that great compatriot of the Republic, his life was thrown away by your foolish involvement of Kaeir in the Taltherani civil war. We do not belong there. No prayers shall bring him back, nor provide sufficient legitimate cause for his loss. You and Basiluddin have one thing in common now, diseased minds. Your nonsensical beliefs only undermine the Republic. If you have any sense you should resign the Consulship! Then you can go live amongst your sand-dwelling brothers, and liberate us from your madness!

"Your compounding of error can be seen in your support of this ridiculous Cedonian proposal. How shall we benefit from encouraging ancient Cedonia to exercise its imperial muscles? Even if it assists a Taltherani Republic to be born, which is questionable, how free shall it be? And how long before mighty Cedonia intervenes in Kaeir, and brings us into their new Imperium?", screamed Talrayn.

Silence echoed in the chamber. The faces revealed the loyalties, and shifted loyalties. Clearly many of Lord-Admiral Ulricovic's old friends agreed with Talrayn, including a number of Green senators, and Lord-Commander van Fitzlyri. The Millati Senators, obviously did not, supporting their brother in faith, Jafaarsan. And the Basiluddinists gave no inkling of their disposition. To Jafaarsan's mind, Talrayn was

now the focal point of opposition to his rule of the Senate, and a man to watch and, if possible, overcome.

Not showing any response to Talrayn's brief tirade, Jafaarsan stood and quietly stated: "this the first matter before us: the candidate for Admiral of the Seas, the ceasing of involvement in the Taltheran affair, and an agreement with Cedonia to resolve the Taltheran problem. I propose on the latter we enter into an agreement with Cedonia to assist each other in the event of the Taltherani dispute overflowing either of our borders. That is the matter at hand. Vote." Jafaarsan sat.

Thalcedon

Raden Ghere sauntered into Theran Rinn's office, and flopped down in the chair before the desk. "You wanted to see me, Theran?"

"Yes, that's right," said the Councillor for Foreign Affairs. "I wanted your opinion on some feelers the Kaeiran Republic's been sending towards our Ambassador there. I realize that you're tied up with 'special projects', but your pre-war experience might be invaluble on this."

Raden snorted derisively. "I was Empress Yzara's go-fer and dogsbody, Theran. I kept the Palace running and the Empress happy, that's all."

"Laugh if you wish, Raden, but as Palace Chamberlain, you were closer to Yzara than anyone else in the current government, save the Duke of Caladyn. You saw how she ran the Empire, which is more than any of us can say."

"All right, I take your point. So, what does our sister republic want with us?"

Rinn leaned back in his chair. "Well, our Ambassador to Kaeir recently attended a party in Port Kaeir, hosted by Lord-Senator Von Kahshaar. Several merchants and senators were present, mostly Millati, but a few Basiluddinists. During the party, the Ambassador was taken aside by one of Von Kahshaar's aides, who rather diffidently inquired as to the possibility of Cedonia intervening in the Taltherani Civil War, specifically in Saltrim."

Ghere raised an eyebrow. "This was not, I take it, an official communication?"

"No, anything but," replied Rinn. "The Ambassador reported that he got the definite feeling that Von Kahshaar was considering making a move in the Senate. Possibly to suggest a partition of Taltheran. However, a week later, the Ambassador went to a party hosted by members of Lord-Senator Talrayn's faction, where he was asked about our response to Kaeir's possible withdrawal from Taltheran. In both cases, the Ambassador refused to make any commitments one way or the other before communicating with us."

"A wise man," said Ghere. "In my opinion, getting involved in the Taltherani snake pit would be a grave mistake. The army needs to rebuild, our economy needs to recover; the only good reason for getting involved in Taltheran would be if the civil war there spills outside its borders. Although, I do admit that possession of Saltrim's port would help in certain respects."

"Hm. As you know, our current foreign policy is to avoid entanglements abroad until we've put our domestic house in order. Still," said Rinn, "Dr. Vellin and I have been discussing certain changes."

"Changes?"

"Before the Sinari War, Taltheran controlled the Tal River up to Wyr and slightly beyond. Since the war, the area's full of tribals, and the cities of Wyr and Hadrair are in ruins. As a result, the trade routes to Hisaria and Hria have been cut. So, rather than trying to expand at the expense of our civilized neighbors, we expand into the tribal regions and civilize them. Kasovia, the Tal-Wyr Valley, the Hansari and Morvali."

"An interesting thought," replied Ghere. "Will you propose it to the Council?"

"We were thinking the next session, but now, I think we'll wait and see which way the Kaeiran Senate jumps."

Reply from Kaeir

Councilor Theran,

Greetings comrade, and salutations to the majestic Cedonian Republic.

My representatives in Cedonia inform me, as do my officials who have talked to your representatives here in Port Kaeir, that the unofficial Cedonian position towards the Taltheran issue is non-involvement.

The current consensus here in Kaeir is towards non-involvement, though certain parties would favour some involvement. What I suggest to your honourable self is perhaps that both our countries could supply the proto-republican party in the Taltherani conflict, the Saltrim Conclave. Such aid could be repayed in terms of recognition of respective claims. Furthermore, a Taltherani Republic would look favourably upon both our governments.

Secondly, as the only two republics in the western Midsea, I suggest your honourable self that we should consider improving our political, diplomatic and commercial ties. Many a kingdom would dislike the rise of states that have rejected the principle of the crown.

Thirdly, closer ties such as the previous two items but can only strengthen both republics, and hinder the influence of certain states that have been traditionally opposed to Cedonian influence. I need not mention which other state vies for influence in the Midsea.

I send my personal envoy and cousin, Sir Khalrudh von Kahshaar of the Diplomatic Corp of the Kaeirean Information Secretariat, along with this message, to continue discussion in this matter, if you should so desire. He is empowered to make decisions and agreements as I have dictated to him, which should expediate any discussions with your government.

Sincerely,

Lord-Senator Karl von Kahshaar, Secretariat-General of the Information Secretariat of the Republic of Kaeir

Actions for Exquaestio

Action submission

At the top of my actions for this turns I've listed some additional events. Events are primarily information, things which don't require an action. They can be holdovers from previous turns; births, marriages, or deaths; or anything else which is interesting enough to report, but not deserving of an actual action.

A formatted version of this action can be found at: http://www.picotech.net/~jeff_wilson63/rpg/Exq_1446.html

Events:

Description: Converts join the order, increasing population by 10%.

Description: The High Priest announces that the church has expanded to the point that he can no longer singly perform the duties of head of the church. Therefore, next year there will be a Grand Conclave to elect a Bishop and create several new High Priests. The Grand Conclave will be held in the city of Cormenaera around high summer.

Action 1: Rally

Weight: Single Description:

Ria stalked through the fair. She would have much rather been training, or even dealing with the paperwork of her position, but the Archmage's orders had been quite clear. "Show yourself at the Midterm Fair. Make yourself approachable and don't scare anyone off." She was politician enough to understand the Archmage's motives, but the order made her feel more like a performing bear than a Warlord.

Centuries ago the Midterm Fair had been founded as a chance for relatives to visit students at the Academy of Sorcery. Since then it had expanded into a three-day event complete with competitions among the students, special displays of magic by the masters, entertainments, food, and every opportunity for the students and other participants to play pranks and otherwise enjoy themselves. From the grounds of the Academy proper it had spread out to into the surrounding streets. Ria knew quite well that the Fair offered valuable relief for students after the demands of their studies, but she hadn't liked the Fair much as a student, and liked it even less today.

Still, orders were orders, and she tried to enjoy herself.

Taking a deep breath, her attention was caught by a fair barker. "See the Exotic Magical Mysteries of Exquaestio! Cast an Exquaestio spell -- No talent required! Wonder at Images of the Dreaming! Southwest Sanraeth Park -- No Admission Fee!"

"Cast a spell without talent?" Ria thought, and turned toward Sanraeth Park. Most likely the claim was simple fraud; but to make it out in public made it something that should be looked into. She frowned slightly at another barker, this one touting Exquaestio as hiring teachers, mages, and craftsmen. "And if it isn't fraud," she thought, "it's even more imperative that the Council know about it as soon as possible."

In order to get more people familiar with Exquaestio, the church rallies its supporters in Mir and puts on a show during a preexisting Fair. The rally includes demonstrations of Exquaestio magic, the opportunity to participate in Exquaestio group magic, songs and stories about Exquaestio, childcare, and a display of ideas for the Pantheon. Exquaestio also acts to hire those with skills that are needed in Exquaestio communities and who are willing to move and accept the limited wages. (Refreshments not provided by Exquaestio.)

Difficulty: Normal (0)

Factors: Mirrish Religious Tolerance & Church Relations (+1), Exquaestio Resources (-2), Crafts: Performance & Organization (+1).

Fudge-Points: 0

Results:

* Performance * Popularity * Religious Reaction * Future Recognition

Action 2: Academic Chair

Weight: Single

Description: Exquaestio approaches the Sorcerer's Academy in Mir about funding a chair in Exquaestio Magic.

Difficulty: Easy (+1)

Factors: Mirrish Magical & Scholastics Diversity (+), Academy Resources (-), Relations with Mirrish Church (+), Unique Magic (+), Only available from Exquaestio (0).

Fudge-Points: 0

Results: - = Unwilling to fund a chair; 0 = no agreement reached, try again; + = chair funded.

* Chairholder * Stipend * Term * Duties

Action 3: Junder Independence

Weight: Single

Description: Exquaestio approaches various key individuals in the Junder Region, and key Free City governments about establishing Junder as an independent nation under a single rule. This is not an attempt to actually make Junder independent, just an attempt to see what it would take.

Difficulty: Normal? (0)

Factors: too many to work with

Fudge-Points: 0

Results: The more -, the more it will take to establish an independent Junder.

* Free City Rivalries * Local Nobility * Type of Government * Other Opposition

Action 4: Contact Religious Reformers

Weight: Single

Description: Exquaestio attempts to contact reformers within the Temples of the Lord of the Sea with a view to opening relations.

Difficulty: Normal (0)

Factors: Religious Tolerance of the Temples of the Lord of the Sea (0). Reformers need for aide (+), Temple attitude towards independence (-), Exquaestio attitudes (+), Exquaestio diplomatic craft (+).

Fudge-Points: 0

Results: Half result as new relations with this group.

* Need for reform * Willingness to look outside religion * Fear of Existing power structure * Attitude toward Exquaestio

Action 5: The Pantheon (1 of 6)

Weight: Extra

Description:

The storm had blown for three days, with the fishing boat fleeing northwest for the entire time. Two days sailing south had brought the boat back to the coast, but nowhere the captain recognized. As the boat beat its way eastward, not a settlement had been seen, and now he was faced with what was obviously a river. Should he sail up it or continue to the east? Which would allow him to make some needed repairs more quickly?

"What do you think Washo?"

"It's gotta be the Prren, Cap'n. I've heard stories about monsters in the Delta, better to head t'wards the east and home."

The captain had also heard about tales about monsters, but he also knew that the same sorts of tales had been told generations ago of areas that were thriving Free City settlements today. He also knew what the west coast of Junder was like, with hidden rocks just waiting to rip a ship's bottom out. He shook his head.

"No. I think the monsters will give us better odds than the west Junder shoals. Set sail upriver."

The main channel proved to be much easier to navigate than the captain had expected. Though the spring flood had certainly raised the main channel, the captain thought that even in high summer it wouldn't be difficult to navigate. The fish were plentiful, and even dolphins gathered 'round, hopefully bringing their luck.

"The main problem," the captain thought, "is that the high water has submerged the sandbars and beaches leaving us no place to beach the boat."

"Cap'n! Dolphin's act'n strange-like."

Moving toward the bow the captain saw what the lookout meant. Time after time a dolphin would stick its head out of the water, chirp, and then swim off toward a side channel. Not any channel, though, the captain realized, a particular channel. There was a bit of a scramble as his bellowed commands caught the small crew by surprise, but it wasn't long before the fishing boat was headed up that same channel.

As the dolphins proceeded to guide the boat up the channel, the crew had a chance to look at them more closely and wonder at what they found. Some of them were wearing harnesses of some sort of fiber, but the thing that really amazed was the nature of their forefins. The crew saw the overlarge fins fold out into something remarkable like arms. Though a couple of crewmen argued that this was a sign of evil and that they should sail as far away as possible, the majority of the crew agreed that dolphins, even dolphins with arms, were good luck, and they wouldn't come to harm by following them. Those few who had earlier fed the dolphins from the fish the boat had caught preened themselves and said that without their actions the dolphins wouldn't be leading the boat anywhere.

It wasn't long before the captain noticed an overlarge hill pushing its way out of the delta. He wasn't surprised when the dolphins led them to it, but he was surprised by grassy clearing set into its side. Nearby trees provided a perfect place to set winches and boat was quickly emptied and winched into the clearing for repairs.

By the time repairs were finished, the crew had explored the hill thoroughly. Fish, greens, and spring roots were abundant, and brambles would grow berries in their season. The water around the hill flowed fresh, clean, and clear. The freshwater dolphins were helpful and some of the crew even thought they talked! The captain had climbed to the top of the hill and seen that the delta was dotted with others like it. Floods would be a problem, and swamp air likely carried disease in summer, but the captain would suggest an expedition out here in the summer. The home village was getting crowded.

Heading home, well repaired, the captain thanked the river dolphins by dropping a midsize net and a number of fishing lines to them. Perhaps they could use them. "And if they couldn't," he thought chuckling, "they're just a sacrifice to the Lord of the Sea."

(Creating the pantheon breaks down into six elements: Site Selection, Site Survey, Planning Construction, Obtaining Funds, Gathering and Purchasing Materials, and the Construction itself.)

Difficulty: Normal (0) (-1 Extra)

Factors: Resources (-2), Crafts (+1), Knowledge of other religions (+), Religious Tolerance (+), Scholastics (0).

Fudge-Points: 0

Results:

• Communication & Trade Routes
• Local Attitudes
• Available Resources
• Foreign Interest

Action resolution

Action 1: Rally

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (-1) + Extras (0) = -1 Failure

Dice:

• Performance: 0
• Popularity: -1
• Religious Reaction: -1
• Future Recognition: +1

Results: The event gathers a crowd, but the overall reaction in Mir is not very positive at all - it is a matter of national pride that only magic by Miracradasa is really any good.

Interpretation: While Exquaestio does establish some name recognition, they decide that future rallies in other lands would be a poor use of resources.

Action 2: Academic Chair

Resolution: Diff = Easy (+1) + Dice (+1) + Extras (0) = +2 Success

Dice:

• Chairholder: +1
• Stipend: 0
• Term: -1
• Duties: +1

Results: While the arguments are long and fierce, in the end Exquaestio gets everything they wanted. Two chairs are established, one in espiri magic and one in rohain magic, with the holders to be appointed by Exquaestio's administration (specifically the Primate). While the monies given to the chairs are limited, they are still enough to support a small staff, and permit the chairholders to be full time researchers, with no additional duties required by the college. (They also collect a very small stipend from Exquaestio.) HOWEVER, the chairs are strictly temporary . . .

Interpretation:

The two chairs are in a large part to the Obeah department of the College of Variation Magic. The Obeah department is the most influencial of all the departments in the College of Variation Magic. The Head of the College of Variation Magic, with a great deal of support from the head of the department of Obeah, feels that the Exquaestio are worth his time and effort. Unfortunately for the Exquaestio the study of their magic is not high on Mirish study list. The additionaly goverment finance are going to Studing the Vraa'al, Obeah, Studying an event in the Dreaming.

The exquaestio have been granted the two seat and an allowance. They will have to do something big to get the attention of someone higher in the university or high in the goverment itself. Their is an understanding that in ten years there will be a review of the department to see if the two chairs and the allowance is enough or too much.

There is one thing that the University does insite on. While they let the Esquaestio choose there chairs. The chairs do have to be sworn citizens of Mir. (They don't have to be born in Mir, but have to have sworn loyalty as a citzen of Mir. This should not affect the religious aspect since you are not required to worship Mirish gods.)

Action 3: Junder Independence

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (+1) + Extras () = +1 Success

Dice:

• Free City Rivalries: -1
• Local Nobility: +1
• Type of Government: +1
• Other Opposition: 0

Results: Actually Junder is fairly independent right now. It is actually home to a number of small settlements from various cities in the Free Cities proper - none of them particularly successful economically or politically. This has meant that they have been largely ignored by their parent cities. Pushing this situation into real independence should not be too difficult; provided that the various baronies and other settlements in Junder can present a unified front to their former masters. This may prove difficult, because the local lords are not accustomed to taking orders from anyone (which is one of the reasons for the economic failure).

Interpretation:

Action 4: Contact Religious Reformers

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (0) + Extras (0) = 0 Mixed results

Dice:

• Need for reform: +1
• Willingness to look outside religion: +1
• Fear of Existing power structure: -1
• Attitude toward Exquaestio: -1

Results: Relations opened with base Fair (0).

Interpretation:

Reformers do exist within the Church of the Lord of the Sea, and many who aren't active reformers think that reforms are needed. It's also generally accepted that reform is not going to arise from within the church. Indeed, the powers within the church are doing all they can to stifle reform. While the reformers are willing to talk with Exquaestio, they see Exquaestio as a poor and marginal religion that can't do anything to help their situation.

Action 5: The Pantheon (1 of 6)

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (0) + Extras (-1) = -1 Failure

Dice:

• Communication & Trade Routes: -1
• Local Attitudes: 0
• Available Resources: 0
• Foreign Interest: +1

Results: The site seems suitable for a settlement, but for the Pantheon, it is rather remote.

Interpretation:

Actions for Kaeir

Action submission

1446 - Kaeir

Things are finally settling in Kaeir. The Republic has fully embraced the three regions of the Modern Tirmaeiri languages (Kaeirean, Celtelathi, Celtehari, Tirmaeiri), and its borders are now secure by land (Crownsbane Keep) and by sea (the Republican Fleet). The people want peace, the economy needs it. War then struggle then war and then struggle again has followed the Republic since its birth in 1433, and the populace is tired.

However, changes in policy and in religion have started to the formation of new divisions in the government, and potentially in the population at large too.

Conflict though, has disappeared from the Republic, save for a proxy involvement in the Taltherani civil war.

Action 1: Basiluddin's cooperation with Saltrim Conclave

Lord Basiluddin, after receiving Senate orders to return to Kaeir, ignores the instructions, instead completing the march to Saltrim (started late in the previous year due to slowness in recruiting) and offering his services and troops to aid the Saltrim Conclave. Using his legendary status amongst his recruits, he deceives them into believing the Senate orders were in fact instructions to march faster and fight harder for Kaeir and a free Taltheran! His arrival, along with his personal officers and the Tal Legion, will greatly boost the strength of the Saltrim Conclave, who have been lacking in good military commanders and officers.

In addition, Lord von Fitzlyri has promised, as a result of the division in the Senate over Admiral Ulricovic's death, that his commanders in Crownsbane Keep will maintain a supply line with Saltrim.

Weight: Double (2 of 3).

Key Elements: Lord Basiluddin, Tal Legion, Saltrim Conclave, Lord von Fitzlyri.

Difficulty: Normal

Factors:

+ Republican feelings

+ Supplied from completed Crownsbane Keep

+ Military genius of Basiluddin

+ Skilled officers in Basiluddin's personal retinue

+ Closer Kaeirean proximity due to completed Crownsbane Keep

+ Support from Commander of the Guard, Lord von Fitzlyri

- Troop quality

0 Popular support in Saltrim

Questions: Will Basiluddin's troops believe him? Is the loyalty of Basiluddin's personal officers to him stronger than their loyalty to the Senate? Will this make a difference in the Taltherani civil war? How will the Senate react to this blatant (though not public) disobedience? What are Basiluddin's long-term plans - should he succeed?

Fudge-points: 2 (multi-term action).

Action 2: Millat Shanari

The completion of the Great Tower of the South, the largest Millati tower in the world aside from the Great Tower of Akbari in the Central Mountains of the Calarnari desert, has given the Millat Shanari believers in Kaeir renewed vigour. Several years of hard effort adapting to Kaeir and building the Tower now give them new insight into the Kaeirean mentality. Preachers begin spreading out from the Tower, in New Tirmaeir, to the towns and cities of the Republic, including Port Kaeir, Kashaartown and the fledgeling town of Crownsbane Keep. The high degree of compatibility the Millati faith has with the spirit of Kaeirean republicanism means that many begin turning to it for solace. This is further strengthened by the financial and political support and backing from key leaders and dignitaries in the Republic, and particularly in the Senate.

Weight: Single (2 of 10).

Key Elements: Millat Shanari devotees, Great Tower of New Tirmaeir.

Difficulty: Normal

Factors:

+ High status converts (Basiluddin, Jafaarsan.).

+ Prestige of the new Great Tower of the South.

+ Compatibility with Kaeirean culture.

+ Backing from key figures.

+ Existing popularity amongst the Guard.

- New religion.

Questions:

Will the Kaeireans take to the new religion? How will the established cults react (there being no majority religion in Kaeir)? What of the rural populations?

Fudge-points: None (long-term action).

Action 3: Panchayyah Trade.

Persisting with the Commerce Secretariat's policy of expanding trade and establishing monopolies where possible, the Kaeirean colonial triumvirate at the mouth of the Rimriver continues to try to establish a trade agreement with the Ban Horroth.

Weight: Single (3 of 4).

Key elements: Commerce Secretariat, Rimrivertown Colonial Triumvirate.

Difficulty: Normal

Factors:

+ Kaeirean diplomacy

+ Trade route

+ Previous Kaeirean success

0 Ban Horroth reaction

- Ban Horroth goods

Questions:

Has the Ban Horroth reaction changed? What is the relationship of the Ban Horroth to the Panchayyah and associated tribes who live along the Rimriver? Do the Ban Horroth want to trade? Will the Ban Horroth find the prospect of a trading partner who does not border their territory attractive (and non-threatening)? Will good relations with Kaeir make the Ban Horroth feel safer regarding the Panchayyah?

Fudge-points: None (long-term action).

Action resolution

Action 1: Basiluddin's cooperation with Saltrim Conclave

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (0) + Extras (double: +1) = +1 Success

Dice:

• Basiluddin's leadership: +1 (2 fp)
• Personal officers: 0
• Effect on the Taltherani civil war: -1
• Senate's reaction: 0

Results: Basiluddin digs in at Saltrim. The effect on Taltheran civil war is largely nonexistent because the Saltrim Conclave refuses to start a direct campaign against the others. They are content to have the protection of Kaeir so that they are secure. The rest of Taltheran is of course outraged by the incursion by foreign troops.

Interpretation:

Action 2: Millat Shanari

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (-1) + Extras () = -1 Failure

Dice:

• Will the Kaeireans take to the new religion? -1
• How will the established cults react (there being no majority religion in Kaeir)? 0
• What of the rural populations? -1
• Purity and cohesion of the Millat Shanari? +1

Results: Despite the efforts, only minor growth from converts is gained. "The cult of the desert people" does not lights hearts among the common Kaeireans.

Interpretation:

Action 3: Panchayyah Trade

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (-2) + Extras () = -2 Failure

Dice:

• Has the Ban Horroth reaction changed? 0
• What is the relationship of the Ban Horroth to the Panchayyah and associated tribes who live along the Rimriver? -1
• Do the Ban Horroth want to trade? Will the Ban Horroth find the prospect of a trading partner who does not border their territory attractive (and non-threatening)? -1
• Will good relations with Kaeir make the Ban Horroth feel safer regarding the Panchayyah? 0

Results: (+1,+3,x,x)

Interpretation: No change, really. The Ban Horroth still seem to be wary of outsiders.

Actions for Cedonia

Action submission

Action 1: Rebuild the Legions Weight: Double, Strategic Sub-actions: * Popular Support * Reorganization * Recruitment * Chance

This is a carry-over from the last year.

Action 2: Restore Secret Service Weight: Single, Strategic Sub-actions: * Insert Agents * Develop codes & ciphers * "Special Projects" * Hire Analysts Fudge Points: 2

Another carry-over from last year.

Action 3: Aid to Saltrim Weight: Single Description: Following informal diplomatic discussions with key members of the Kaeiran Senate, Theran Rinn, the Councillor for Foreign Affairs, proposes to the Regency Council that the United Provinces of Cedonia send aid to the Saltrim Conclave in Taltheran. After a lengthy debate, the Council votes to send food and medical supplies to Saltrim. The Council votes against sending any Cedonian troops to aid Saltrim, but does agree to allow the Saltrim Conclave to buy surplus weapons on easy terms. Just before the final vote on arms sales, a minor baron manages to have an amendment inserted to the bill, authorizing military intervention if Saltrim fails to pay for its weapons within five years after the end of the war in Taltheran. Councillor Rinn arranges to send part of the weapons & supplies overland, while the remainder will be sent by ship, in Kaeiran cargo vessels chartered by Cedonia for the purpose Sub-actions: * Ship food & medicine * Selling weapons * Getting in to Saltrim, land & sea * Chance Difficulty: Normal Factors: * Saltrim is very close to Cedonia overland. * Most of the serious fighting is to the north of the City. * Even if the overland convoy can't get through, the hired Kaeiran ships should.

Action resolution

Action 1: Rebuild the Legions

Weight: Double, Strategic Sub-actions:

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (+1) + Extras (double: +1) = +2 Success

Dice:

• Popular Support: -1
• Reorganization: 0
• Recruitment: +1
• Chance: +1

Results: results so far (+2,x,x,x)

Interpretation:

The general public in the United Provinces is not terribly fond of the armed forces; memories of the ravages of the Civil War are still fresh, particularily in the south, where General Zenos had his strongholds. However, recruitment levels increase sharply as a result of the economic hard times that Cedonia is enduring; the Legions pay well, provide room and board, and they are nearly the only Cedonian institution that pays a pension.

The reorganization of forces proceeds apace, neither shooting ahead nor sliding back. There is some resistance from the older officers, but their time is passing.

Action 2: Restore Secret Service

Resolution: Diff = Hard (-1) + Dice (-1) + Extras () = -2 Failure

Dice:

• Insert Agents: +1 (fp=2)
• Develop codes & ciphers: 0
• "Special Projects": -1
• Hire Analysts: -1

Results: results so far (x,x,x,x,x,x)

Interpretation:

Councillor for Special Projects Ghere has an unpleasant year. While the insertion of agents into various countries and tribes proves quite successful, and some progress is made in developing secure communications, it has proven nearly impossible to find qualified analysts. It may prove neccessary for the surviving members of the old intelligence network to devote all their time to training up analysts from scratch.

Worse, the attempts to recruit agents for 'wet work' went badly awry. Several of the recruits attempted to sell their skills to local crime lords, and had to be 'cleaned up'. Unfortunately, their defection was not discovered until after the bodies began to fall. Following 1446's debacle, Ghere and "Uncle", the spymaster, institute a far more rigorous screening program.

Action 3: Aid to Saltrim

Resolution: Diff = Easy (+1) + Dice (-2) + Extras () = -1 Failure

Dice:

• Ship food & medicine: -1
• Selling weapons: 0
• Getting in to Saltrim, land & sea: -1
• Chance: 0

Results: The land caravan are intercepted and the goods confiscated by the Merchant Guild of Pran. One of the cargo ships disappears during a storm, and several others suffer from damaged contents.

Interpretation:

Some of the sea cargo got through, arriving just after Basiluddin's army marched into the city. Most of the food ended up being taken by the Kaeirans to feed their forces.

As far as weapons are concerned, the Cedonian representative does make it through to Saltrim, and enters into negotiations with the Conclave. What Saltrim really wants are siege weapons suitable for mounting on the city's walls. They have access to timber for building engines and stone for ammunition, but they lack certain critical metal fittings, rawhide for torsion springs, and engineers trained in assembling siege weapons. The Cedonians agree to try to supply the necessary parts and people, but warn that it may be difficult to get the parts in overland due to the interference of the Merchant's Guild in Pran.

Speaking of Pran, the Cedonians are very annoyed by the Pranian confiscation of the overland relief convoy. Sentiment in the Regency Council strongly favors some sort of retaliation. Wiser heads have, for the moment, prevailed, but the insult will not be forgotten.

To Lord Basiluddin, General Commanding, Kaeiran Forces in Saltrim, Greetings,

We congratulate you on the success of your march to Saltrim through the chaos which is present-day Taltheran. However, we are somewhat concerned by the fact that this action was apparently undertaken without the approval of your government. Nevertheless, we feel that it is, all in all, a good thing, that you and your forces have moved to Saltrim's aid.

We are willing to aid you and your forces, and the Saltrim Conclave, as best we can. However, our attempts to send aid overland have been stymied by the interference of the Merchants' Guild in Pran, who have been intercepting our humanitarian aid caravans and stealing the good therein. Because of this, we suggest that perhaps the forces of our two nations, working together, can open up an overland supply route between Saltrim and Cedonian Tirmar, and prevent the Merchants' Guild from interfering. Possibly, at a later date, more direct action may need to be taken against the Guild, but for the moment, we wish only to be able to freely trade between Zayura and Saltrim. Such trade would also provide better supply and support for your own troops.

We await your reply.

Signed,

Dr. Ardin Vellin, First Councillor,

Theran Rinn, Councillor for Foreign Affairs

Actions for (Society)

Action submission

Action resolution

Action 1-4

Resolution: Diff = () + Dice () + Extras () =

Dice:

• :
• :
• :
• :

Results:

Interpretation:

-- Juuso Vesanto - 7 Aug 2004

-- Juuso Vesanto - 17 Aug 2004