Events for 1452

Videssia [-6]: Videssia is suddenly and viciously attacked by hordes of Ice Demons.

Exquaestio [-3]: A pair of rohain operating in the Burcancy report indications that the rohain who disappeared did not go into Torphan willingly. A religious sect called "The Hand of Garr", based in Burcancy, but originally from Torphan, is somehow involved. Shortly after the report these two rohain also disappear.

Reactions in Sedonia

by Andrew

The Inner Council of the United Provinces of Sedonia was meeting in emergency session in the secret chamber cut into the rock of Palace Mount. The Count of Rochlyn grimly looked at his fellow councilors, and said, "I must impress upon you all that what I am about to say must not leave this room. This morning, the Sedonian trading vessel /Heart of Sedon/ made port here in Thalcedon. She carried dispatches from our consulate in Crisaeda. It seems that about thirteen days ago, a fleet of Videssian refugees arrived in Crisaeda. This would not normally be an unusual occurance, given the current sorry state of Videssia, but these refugees were very different. They were fleeing Ice Demons."

"As near as can be determined," said the Count into the hush which had settled on the other Councilors, "the Ice Demons began attacking southern and eastern Videssia about a month ago. Given that we have not been seeing increases in refugees from Torphan, and that there have been no reports of Ice Demons in Burcancy or Parglug, we must conclude that the Ice Demons have discovered a previously unknown pass in the Tavar Mountains."

Prince Arden spoke up. "Are there any reports to indicate which way the Ice Demons are heading?"

The Count shook his head. "No. The situation is very confused. In the past, the only goal that the Ice Demons seem to have had has been to head north. We don't know whether they will head north through Tana to the Straits of Anorur, or if they'll head west through Junder, Parglug, and Burcancy. Also, the Ice Demons in Tanimbar are apparently staying in their goblin-holes . . . but that may not last."

Dr. Vellin, the Interior Minister, looked around the table. "So, what do we do now?" he asked.

No one answered.

Actions for Exquaestio

Interlude

by Jefferson

The short, dark haired woman carrying a book could hardly have been a greater contrast to the tall, fair haired man wearing a sword beside her. Yet, they shared something; something greater than the respect that showed on the faces of those they met, striding across the courtyard of Exquaestio's Grand Ecclesia and being greeted with "Eldest" and "Preceptor" and gestures of respect.

At their destination there was a pause as the two, who most had thought were far away, sought out the Primate, but shortly they entered the office and took the seats provided for them. Mira was struck by the changes the years had made to the Primate. In the four years since the Grand Conclave he had changed from the young, driven, man he had once been. The difference was undefinable, but Mira thought he had grown towards his office, though not yet fully into it.

Primate Rojez Lafwe began by speaking to Mira, "I wouldn't have thought that my message would have reached you so soon."

Mira smiled slightly, "It hadn't. I was contacted by the Council of Twelve. I had to sail across the straight of winds. Since then I've been teleporting hither and yon."

Lars interrupted, "And it's exhausted you. You shouldn't have tried to teleport me here today on top of everything else."

Mira waved a hand, "I'll be fine. You've said you'll return to the Mother Preceptory overland, so I'll get plenty of rest today before I start back to Mirabalpur." She sighed, looking at the two men, "I'll be grateful when we can finally get proper elevations on Celamyr. I think I finally have all the rites to cross the straight of winds, but I won't be able to get to it until late this spring."

"What are the chances of another espiri learning to teleport?" Rojez asked.

"Not good. The rite is amazingly finicky. I've talked to all of our most skilled espiri, and none of them are up to it. Things may change, but it looks like years until another espiri masters teleportation."

"The survey for the pantheon is nearly completed," Rojez remarked. No sites have sprung out as being particularly appropriate, but we do have survey markers for most of the area around Cormenaera.

Lars spoke up, "Since we're talking about magic, what's the situation with Mir and our licenses?"

Mira sighed, "The people of Mir are upset with idea of our licensing mages. I've heard a dozen rumors misstating what we're doing in various ways. It will all blow over eventually, I'm sure, but until them I'm being very careful." She shrugged, "It's not like our licenses are particularly useful in Mir anyway, unlike most other areas. Some of my Mirrish licenses are up for review next year. We'll see how it goes when I try to get them renewed."

"And since you asked about Mir, Lars, what's going on in Lowfells these days?"

"Well, I have to admit, I was surprised by how effective the rebellion was. Lowfells pushed back at the Free Cities, and the Free Cities fell over."

Rojez snorted, "Maybe from your perspective. I don't want to talk about what I was doing."

Lars continued, "And now other areas of Junder are following suit. It started this past winter, and has speeded up since. I don't see it slowing even for the Ice Demon invasion."

With those words said, no one quite knew how to continue. They all knew why they had gathered together, but none of them wanted to address a situation with so much potential for horror and disaster.

Mira was the first to speak, staring down at the clasped hands, "I was briefed by scholar on the last demon war before I left. He said that in the last war there were actually three demon forces. The central, and largest, force headed due south from the Tavar pass. Two flanking forces, only slightly smaller than the main force, headed southwest towards the western sea and southeast toward the south coast of the Midsea. When the main force bogged down, the two flanking divided themselves. Mir defeated the main force before the reinforcements from flanking forces arrived. Those reinforcements became the Tanimbar goblins, and the remnants of the flanking forces fell apart."

She grimaced. "Anyway, he said that Videssia was scarcely touched. Apparently they got some raiders after the main forces collapsed, but nothing significant."

Seeing that Mira seemed to be done, Lars started his own narrative. "So far the demons have only struck the Warlords. The lands claimed by Videss and Celoa haven't been touched, and are arming desperately. Though I won't eliminate the idea that they came from the southwest, from the reports it seems much more likely that they came from the southeast, skirting Onagir territory. Considering how thin the Videssians are spread, if the demons are in anything like the numbers we've seen in the past we can pretty much write off the Warlords and the Videss countryside. Videss city may hold, and there's a small chance Celoa may be able to hold them at the Arand."

"How small a chance?"

"I don't know. From the reports I've gotten there might be as few as 800 demons. There's got to be more than that, but I have no way of telling how many more."

Lars continued, "I've sent messengers everywhere trying to get more information, even to Celoa and the Trolls . . ."

Mira perked up, "The Trolls? I thought they were just a story."

"They may be. I've met a person who says he talked to a person who dealt with them once, and that's as close as I've gotten. But their lands are right in the way if the demons in Videssia circled around from the Tavar pass. They certainly didn't go through south Junder! The barbarian tribes are sure of that. Lars shook his head. "Anyway, no one knows how Celoa is going to act. Lowfells' military is under the command of Colin Espeder . . ."

Mira interrupted, "What's he like?"

"You know about Espeder Valley, right?"

"Of course. Dried apples and pigskin."

Lars nodded, "and cider."

"Everyone makes cider."

"But the Espeders ship it."

"Really? Mir is wine country, and I haven't had a decent glass of cider in years."

"Espeder cider is getting something of a name in the Free Cities, but I don't think it's traveled as far as Mir yet.

Rojez spoke up, "Could we get back to the military situation?"

Lars nodded. "Of course. Colin's father was the third son of the chief of the Lusag tribe. He served as a mercenary, and ended up married to Lady Luci Espeder and inheriting the Espeder estate. Colin himself was an officer in the Daliir guard before returning home a few years ago to marry a niece of the chief of the Lintok tribe. During the troubles last year he showed a distinct talent for command and agreed to lead Lowfells' military. Frankly, I'd be quite pleased to see him as king, even though he isn't quaestae."

"With Colin's contacts with both the barbarians and the Orasareni we've come up with a plan that should at least delay the demons if they hit the Junder forests. We may even be able to divert them. Last I heard, Colin was still trying to get in touch with the Celoa barbarians." Lars shook his head, "Anyway, we have a lot of plans depending on exactly what we're facing and how soon."

When Lars finished, Rojez began his side of the situation. "I've sent word to our people in Tana, and told our people in Tanimbar to find out as much goblin history as they can." Rojez sighed, "Unless something changes there won't be any goblins in Tanimbar in a couple of centuries, and that would be a shame. We were already trying to get trade started with the goblins, and hopefully we'll be able to learn a bit of goblin history. Whatever's driving the demons, though, doesn't seem to be affecting Tanimbar's goblins."

Mira sighed in relief, "That's good news at least."

The discussion between the leaders of Exquaestio's three branches continued for hours, covering the details of many possible contingencies. It was clear that more information was needed, and each of the leaders, in their own way, was doing all they could to provide that information. At the same time, each branch of the church was ready to act at a moment's notice on the basis of the information they had.

As the meeting finally broke up Mira said, "I'll pass this information on to the Council of Twelve and let you know whatever they tell me. They seem to be almost as worried by this as we are."

Action submission

Events

• A pair of rohain operating in the Burcancy report indications that the rohain who disappeared did not go into Torphan willingly. A religious sect called "The Hand of Garr", based in Burcancy, but originally from Torphan, is somehow involved. Shortly after the report these two rohain also disappear.
• Exquaestio grows by 20% (0% remaining).
• Ulysses Fells, eldest child of Mirafelle and Tallas Fells begins studies at the College of Sorcery in Mirabalpur.
• The primary Book of Travels is moved from the Grand Ecclesia in

Action 1 (1 of ? 1st): The Kingdom of Junder

Description: As more areas of Junder declare independence in the face of the threat of the Ice Demons and the lack of response to Lowfells' independence, Exquaestio tries to unify the different areas of Junder, whether held by nobles, freemen, barbarians, or craftsmen.

Difficulty: Easy (1), Single (0), 0 Fudge-Points

Factors: 0 past actions - desire for independence + needs for unification - desires of different classes and areas + Exquaestio influence 0 Foreign influence + Ice Demon threat

Results: military, economics, administration, law

Action 2: Mobilization

Description: In the expectation that Videssia will not be able to hold against the Ice Demons, Exquaestio helps to mobilize military forces in Junder, south Orasaren, and Tana. Volunteers are gathered and, assisted by those espiri and rohain who can be spared from other tasks, are offered to assist Videssia and Junder's barbarians. They encourage offers of assistance from Parglug and The Burcancy.

Difficulty: Easy (1), Single (0), 0 Fudge-Points

Factors: + Military Force, - Wealth, + Reputations, + results of Action 1, + Fear of Ice Demons

Results: Videssia, Barbarians, Volunteers, Militia

Action 3: Demonic Tanimbar

Description: Exquaestio attempts to gain information about goblin culture and history by encouraging trade that will increase the goblin's wealth.

Difficulty: Normal (0), Single (0), 0 Fudge-Points

Factors: - hostility towards goblins, + existing relations, + value of goblin art, 0 Tanimbar hostility towards other governments.

Results: southern goblins, magic, trade, relations

Action 4: Magical Alliances

Description: Feroze opens the magics of Exquaestio to allied deities. Offers were made to Demerhaze, Miracradsa, Arrumanthus, and Arlova.

Difficulty: Normal (0), Single (0), 0 Fudge-Points

Factors: - Feroze is an outsider, + Offers of new knowledge to existing gods, 0 Offers made to gods on outskirts of existing alliances.

Results: Gods, Espiri, Ecclesia, Magic Diversity

Action 5: The Pantheon (2 of 6 5th)

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

Difficulty: Normal (0), Extra (-1), 0 Fudge-Points

Factors: - Resources + Crafts o Tolerance in Cormenaera o Relations in Cormenaera o Scholastics.

Results: Purchase, Transportation, Labor, Distance From City

Action resolution

Action 1: The Kingdom of Junder

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (+000) + Extras () = +1 Success

Dice:

• Military: +1
• Economics: 0
• Administration: 0
• Law: 0

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

Interpretation:

There is a solid plan in place and little doubt over who has the strongest military. Nevertheless, the Junder Alliance is still weak, based on tentative agreements instead of hard law and custom.

Action 2: Mobilization

Resolution: Diff = Easy (+1) + Dice (+0--) + Extras () = 0 Mixed results

Dice:

• Videssia: +1
• Barbarians: 0
• Volunteers: -1
• Militia: -1

Results:

Interpretation:

Eventually, the Junder Alliance manages to get everyone to buy into a mutual defense agreement. The agreement comes late, but shows promise for next year. A bright spot comes from Celoa, who agrees to accept the Junder troops in their territory. Though all magic-using forces are to be strictly segregated, Celoa's agreement to accept them at all cause causes rejoicing at Exquaestio's highest ranks.

Action 3: Demonic Tanimbar

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

Dice:

• southern goblins: +1
• magic: +1
• trade: -1
• relations: -1

Results: Effects at contacting the goblins are succesfull, but the attempts at trade are not, especially since the Tarimbar begin to feel mighty suspicious against the Exquaestio operatives due to the communication attempts.

Interpretation:

While attempts to trade and extend relations are unsuccessful, Exquaestio does manage to gain a great deal of information about the culture and magic of the ice demons (or at least about their culture when the Tanimbar goblins split off).

Action 4: Magical Alliances

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

Dice:

• Gods: +1
• Espiri: -1
• Ecclesia: -1
• Magic Diversity: -1

Results:

Interpretation:

Feroze is astonished to learn that while a few of the gods of Qaiyore are willing to share their supernatural authority, they have absolutely no idea how to do it. The best they can currently do is avoid interfering with the boons of another. In order to make this action a success, Feroze (hopefully with Miracradsa's help) is going to have to figure out how to share divine authority.

(This changes the information on Exquaestio's cover page. The relationship with Demerhaze is downgraded from alliance to cooperative. I'm going to keep the information about the Obscurus gleam being avaiable to Scouts, however. Demerhaze can still make suggestions even if she can't merge boons with Feroze.)

Action 5: The Pantheon

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (--00) + Extras (extra: -1) = -3 Severe failure

Dice:

• Purchase: -1
• Transportation: -1
• Labor: 0
• Distance From City: 0

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

Interpretation:

While the survey of areas around Cormenaera is now complete, other projects have drawn down the manpower needed to make use of that information. There is even talk of abandoning this project in the face of other needs which Exquaestio must meet.

Actions for Sedonia

Action submission

Action 1: Building the Spy Network

Weight: Double, strategic

Description: This is a continuation of the work of previous years--no radical changes in course.

Difficulty: Hard

Fudge Points: 1

Sub-parts: * Insert 'deep cover' agents * Hire analysts * Develop counter-espionage * "Special Projects"

Action 2: Renovation and Repair, Part 2

Weight: Single, strategic

Description: Following the report of the surveyors, the Regency Council decides to start repairing the military roads of Vizinia this year. While the work of designing and building the roads will be paid for out of the Ministry of the Interior's budget, most of the surveying and construction will be done by the Legion based in Vizinia, with local labor hired as needed. Time to completion is estimated at four to six years.

Difficulty: Normal

Fudge Points: 0

Sub-parts: * Surveying * Grading * Paving * Bridge Building

Action 3: Making an Imprint

Weight: (Juuso, your call, but I'm guessing strategic, given it took Gutenberg four years to perfect his bright idea.)

Description:

Davor Viridis normally enjoyed the company of his roomate, Raden Tomasros. The two young men had lived together ever since they met on the first day of classes at the University of Thalcedon, and they were fast friends. Today, however, Raden had returned from classes in a foul mood, and he had spent a half-hour sitting at his desk, trying to write a letter and mumbling curses under his breath.

"What's wrong?" Davor finally asked.

"Oh, it's this copy of Jatrosa's Principles of Geometry that I purchased for my natural philosophy course. Whoever copied it didn't know any geometry, and probably didn't know how to read. His handwriting is awfula, and I've been comparing the text with the University library's copy, and there're serious errors on nearly every page, and even places where pages are skipped," said Raden. "I paid nearly ten gold imperials for this, and the book is worthless."

"At least you were able to find a copy of your own," replied Davor. "Not all of us have rich fathers--a lot of students can barely afford their own books. I have to take notes from the library copy, and that one's falling apart. The librarians say they'll have to send it to be recopied soon."

"There has to be a better way to make copies of books than writing them out longhand," said Raden. "One of the librarians nearly beat a theology student to death last week after the poor sod dropped the only available copy of the second volume of Ancient Mid Sea? Religions in a puddle. The librarian kept raving about it took ten scribes four years to copy out a book which one fumble-fingers destroyed in one second.

"Anyway," he continued, "I've written my father for more money. Hopefully, the letter will reach him in a generous mood." Raden dribbled a blob of wax from his lit candle, and pressed his seal-ring into it.

"Let me see that," Davor said suddenly.

"What, the letter?" asked Raden. "Only I've just seal-"

"No, no, not the letter. Your seal-ring."

With a raised eyebrow, Raden handed the ring to Davor, who studied it for a moment. It was a simple design, Raden's initials in script capitals. Davor turned, and over Raden's protests, dipped the ring in his inkwell. He shook off the excess ink, and pressed the ring onto the surface of his desk, lifting it up to reveal Raden's initials imprinted on the wood.

Davor turned and looked at his friend. "Raden, we could be on to something really big."

Difficulty: (Juuso's call--building a press is easy--the hard parts are making the right ink, the right type-metal, and finding funding) Factors: The concept is simple--The university will support this project as it will reduce their expenditures on copying books longhand--Sedonia has Great Sophistication and Good Diversity in Scholastics.

Fudge Points: 3

Sub-Parts: * Building a press * Finding the right materials for ink * Finding the right materials for type * Finding financial backing

Action resolution

Action 1: Building the Spy Network

Resolution: Diff = Hard (-1) + Dice (0-00) + Extras (double: +1) = -1 Failure

Dice: 1 fp

• Insert 'deep cover' agents: 0
• Hire analysts: -1
• Develop counter-espionage: 0
• "Special Projects": 0

Results: Secret service (Hard: +2,+1,+2,+1,x,x)

Interpretation:

Yet again, Minister Ghere is stymied by the fact that all his recruits want to be field agents, and none of them want to do the vital but necessary work of analyzing collected data. In addition, two of his best prospects have suddenly decided to go into business for themselves, working on something they call a "printing press".

Action 2: Renovation and Repair, Part 2

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

Dice:

• Surveying: -1
• Grading: +1
• Paving: 0
• Bridge Building: +1

Results:

Interpretation:

While there are some initial errors in surveying, they prove not to be serious enough to derail the work. The grading and filling of washouts proceeds quickly, as does the replacement of dilapidated bridges. Some hostility is generated with the locals, however, when the engineers try to reclaim paving stones from farmers' fieldstone walls.

Action 3: Making an Imprint (movable type)

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (+00-) + Extras () = 0 Mixed results

Note: I decided on 'Normal' difficulity, because I felt that all the right conditions exist in Sedonia already. Still, making this a success only means the work of basically one Guttenberg. It will be years and years yet before this will have any significant impact on the economy. On the other hand, the box will then be open...

Dice: 3 fp

• Building a press: +1
• Finding the right materials for ink: 0
• Finding the right materials for type: 0
• Finding financial backing: -1

Results: (Normal: 0,x,x)

Interpretation: A clever press device is constructed, and first attempts at the materials are begun. However, these efforts are costly, and the inventors are starting to run out of money.

Davor Viridis and Raden Tomasros, as might be expected from engineering students, quickly develop a working printing press. However, they have trouble finding the right alloy to use for typemetal, and they also have some trouble finding an ink of the correct viscosity. In addition, they have not had much luck in finding investors. Both young men have already invested most of their own funds into the project and are reluctant to ask their respective parents for more money. The University has not been terribly supportive, taking a "wait and see" approach.

However, there may be light on the horizon: an alchemy student, Lecon Ronirros, has joined them on the project, and may be able to help with the materials problem. Davor and Raden also plan to try persuading the Order of Lucia and the Ministry of Special Projects to invest in their invention.

Actions for Kaeir

Action submission

Action 1: Millati evangelisation Action: 7 of 10. Weight: Single Key Elements: The Keeper, Millati supporters, Millati preachers. Description: The Millati community continues its evangelization program in Kaeir, invigorated by the increasing success amongst the population. The missionaries enjoy sufficient financial and logistical support, allowing them to function properly and more properly focus on their duties. The popular perception of the Path as a foreign faith has weakened significantly thanks to the development of a Kaeirean leadership under the Keeper. The recent successful conversion of a number of villages around Crownsbane Keep has taught the missionaries the importance of focusing on the social units that make up Kaeirean society. Efforts now focus on converting the heads of families, houses, villages and clans, knowing that the conversion of the leadership will cause a more rapid conversion of the rest of the unit.

Difficulty: Normal. Background factors:

+ Leadership of the Keeper. + High status converts + Kaeirean leadership of Millati community (elevated status amongst Kaeireans) + Solid political and financial support from powerful Millati believers in the government, military and commerce for preachers, organised by the Keeper. + Initial success of previous year. + Accumulated experience of preaching to Kaeireans. + Exploitation of the importance of collective social units in Kaeirean society (families, houses, clans) + No area of Kaeir really “anti-Millati” anymore (disinterested at worst) - New religion

Action 2: Securing of Rimrivertown settlement (final). Action: 3 of 3 (previously 2 turn action) Weight: Single. Key Elements: Lord-Governor Huacoatl, Colonial Guard, Kaeirean and Panchayyah merchants, Sri Nagavallur the Grand Shaman. Description:

Following the generally successful consolidation and securing of the Rimrivertown settlement, the Lord-Governor Hoacoatl embarks on a controversial move to better ensure the colony’s future. He meets with the Panchayyah Grand Shaman and High Priest of the Snake Lord, the Sri Nagavallur, and requests his help in modifying the urban plan of the settlement so it is in “harmony” with Panchayyah beliefs.

Hoacoatl personally pays for the construction of a Temple of the Snake Lord on the highest hill of the south bank of the settlement, with an attached residence and compound for the Grand Shaman (the upkeep of which is paid for by the Office of the Lord-Governorate as a offering of respect for the spiritual leader of the Panchayyah).

Whilst still continuing the general infrastructure development of the settlement (roads, docks, water, drainage), he also asks the Grand Shaman for advice on the general layout of the settlement, the names of certain streets and buildings, and most importantly, what spiritual actions could be taken to improve the general spiritual health of the settlement.

While some Kaeireans are horrorified at Hoacoatl’s seemingly superstitious, even pagan, actions, the Lord-Governor’s true intentions, in the Machiavellian style of Lord Jafaarsan, are to gain greater favour with the second-most powerful man in the Rimriver, the Grand Shaman, and to make Rimrivertown more palatable to the more traditional of the Panchayyah, through the incorporation of certain elements, stylings and symbols of Panchayyah spiritualism.

Ideally, these modifications, in addition to the continuing infrastructure development, will strengthen Rimrivertown’s position as a centre of Panchayyah trade, and help offset the temporary decline in the Ban Horroth trade.

Difficulty: Normal.

Background factors: + Continued recognized need by Kaeireans and Panchayyah to secure Rimrivertown. + Panchayyah friendship (and special emphasis by Senate on harmonious relations). + Leadership of Lord-Governor Huacoatl. + Offering of friendship to Grand Shaman. + Financial benefits to Grand Shaman (a free residence basically). + Boost to Cult of the Snake Lord through construction of Temple. + Benefits of Ban Horroth trade to Panchayyah and Kaeireans. + Improved infrastructure and support (greater spending, commerce, traffic with Kaeir) + Accumulated success. - Uncertainty amongst merchants created by Ban Horroth crisis. - Uncertainty amongst Panchayyah created by Ban Horroth crisis. - Slight decline in trade due to Ban Horroth trade. - Possible negative reaction by Grand Shaman.

Action 3-4: Aid to Ban Horroth Trader Caste. Action: * of 5. Weight: Key Elements: Lord-Governor Huacoatl, Information Secretariat Captain Murhanuddin and his delegation of 11 advisors, Ban Horroth Trader Caste, Ban Horroth Priestly Caste, Ban Horroth Warrior Caste. Description:

The Kaeirean mission continues their efforts to protect their trade interests by helping the Trader Caste. Murhanuddin shifts his focus to the neutral Priestly Caste this year, attempting to convince the Priestly Caste of the benefits of Kaeirean friendship through a series of meetings and discussions with a number of important priests, particularly the Grand Abbot. Murhanuddin emphasises the difference between the Kaeireans and the Razanians, the benefit of trade and friendship, and the kind of assistance and information the Kaeireans can provide to the Ban Horroth efforts against the Razanians.

At the same time, the Kaeirean commercial “bribes” begin to be used, enticing neutral clans in the Priestly and Warrior Castes.

The training of the Trader Caste militia continues, which will soon exceed the Warrior army in skill and tactical ability.

Difficulty: Hard. Background factors: + Murhanuddin’s efforts to persuade priestly leadership. + Generally positive reaction of previous year. + Still peaceful relations from Kaeireans (Some Ban Horroth begin thinking that maybe not all humans are “evil”?) + Existing established trade with Ban Horroth. + Assistance to the Traders small enough not to spark negative reaction amongst Ban Horroth. + Commercial benefits to clans if trade with Rimrivertown not effected. + Offer of expertise to help against Razanian attacks. + Enhanced strength and status of Party of Trade from Kaeirean aid and weapons. - Appearance of armed foreigners from the west at a time when foreigners from the east are attacking.

Fudge: 2

Action resolution

Action 1: Millati evangelisation

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

Dice:

• The Keeper: 0
• Millati supporters: -1
• Millati preachers: +1
• Luck: +1

Results: Millat shanari (Normal: 0,0,0,+1,+1,+1,+1,x,x,x)

Interpretation:

Action 2: Securing of Rimrivertown settlement (final)

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (---0) + Extras () = -3 Severe failure

Dice:

• Grand Shaman attitude: -1
• Kaeir settlers reaction: -1
• Construction work: -1
• Luck: 0

Results: Rimrivertown securing (Normal: +2,x)

Interpretation: Almost all that can go wrong, does. The Grand Shaman is not at all thrilled at the prospect of a temple in the "ugly foreign village", the Kaeir settles resent the favours given Hoacoatl; their actions are little short of sabotage.

The Sri Nagavallur is more than mildly amused at the dismal attempt by Hoacoatl to gain his friendship. Perhaps now the foreign lord in Rimrivertown will realise that the interests of the Grand Shaman and that of the Grand Chief's are not necessarily the same, and approach the Sri Nagavallur in a more appropriate manner (the Grand Shaman viewing the Lord-Governor as inferior in status).

The Grand Chief of the Panchayyah, Sri Dhesker, on the other hand is slightly upset at the difficulties his ally the Lord-Governor has created. Whilst the Grand Shaman could never dethrone him, he certainly possesses the political power of a kingmaker, and needs to be respected appropriately. In short, he dresses down the Lord-Governor for blundering his way into one of the most delicate matters amongst the natives of the Rimriver, the status and position of the cult of the Snake Lord.

Lord-Governor Hoacoatl's failure makes him an easier than normal target for his enemies in Rimrivertown and their patrons in Port Kaeir, using this incident as ammunition against him back in the Senate, where Hoacoat's own patrons, the Lord-Consul Jafaarsan and the Secretary-General von Kahshaar, have been under attack over the entire Panchayyah-Ban Horroth colonial policy. A campaign has begun amongst certain factions in the Republican Palace in Port Kaeir to have Lord-Governor Hoacoatl recalled.

The following week in the Senate:

"Lord-Consul, it is clear that your client Hoacoatl is incapable of handling affairs in Rimrivertown, and it is only slightly less clear whether this whole adventure on the other side of the Midsea was wise in the first place", spat Boris Adin, the Mayor of Port Kaeir, the new unofficial head of the opposition. It would not be a smooth day in the Senate it appeared, as murmurs of agreement floated around the Senatorial Chamber.

"Lord Boris", Lord Karl, General-Secretary of the Information Secretariat said, "whilst the Lord-Consul and I do not see eye to eye on all matters, as is well known, I believe you are both gravely wrong and ignorant. As is obvious, Kaeir is a trading nation, and many here owe their wealth to trade. The initial reasoning, to establish a trading settlement to trade with the Panchayyah natives, was well-thought out. The added boon that was later discovered of being able to trade with the Ban Horroth of the mountains only further compounded how valuable the settlement was. I can name at least six members of the Senate whose wives are adorned in Panchayyah furs and Ban Horroth gems, and another four whose houses are engaged at this moment in the Rimrivertown trade."

"Lord-Consul, brother Sanus," Adin continued, "I am sure that von Kahshaar has better things to do than monitor the purchases of our wives, and that he does these important things, but many here would agree that the honourable General-Secretary would not understand the alarm of many here at Lord-Governor Hoacoatl's recent policy towards the natives of the Rimriver. The building of a pagan native temple is hardly something that state moneys should be used for, and must be in gross violation of many of his personal beliefs. One can only speculate at what kind of man Hoacoatl has become, having lived away from civilisation and amongst barbary for so many years."

"What the respectable Lord-Mayor of Port Kaeir is about to propose, members of the Senate", Jafaarsan finally interjected, "is to recall the good Lord-Governor of Rimrivertown. For what crime you might ask (but probably already know)? According to Boris here, it is that he is misspending state moneys to build a temple for the local Panchayyah deity. In reality, it is because Hoacoatl is not a lackey of Mayor Boris, and fails to give special treatment to certain merchant houses (these certain houses that I might add, have been spectatularly unsuccessful in trading matters in recent years). I am sure we can imagine who they are..."

A soft chuckle ran around the Senate, as it was well known that the Adin house and its associated clans had been dipping steadily into their reserves after a long string of failed trading ventures.

Jafaaarsan continued, adding that, "The original policy of establishing a trading settlement on the north-west of the Midsea has been a tremendous success. Our traders have a two new markets for their goods - our allies the Panchayyah, and the strange mountain folk the Ban Horroth. More importantly, our traders now have a monopoly on the goods produced by the Panchayyah and the Ban Horroth. Traders from across the Midsea are only able to buy such goods in Port Kaeir, and the Houses grow fat on this lucrative trade."

"As for Adin's lapse of protocol in making use of a religious relationship when discussing matters of state, Lord Karl was gracious enough to ignore it. Lord-Mayor Adin, I am greatly offended at your behaviour, and I am sure that a good number of your supporters in Port Kaeir would be especially interested in your comments, given the differences in religion between you and the." Adin stepped back for a half-minute, a glimmer of shock and fear appearing in his eyes momentarily.

The Lord-Consul continued, "The four guiding principles of state, as agreed upon in the Document of State, continue to include Trade. The reason so many of the original revolutionary houses joined in the founding of the Republic was because of their concerns over trade - never forget that. The opening up of new markets, and the development of new sources of tradegoods remains a key state policy. Religion does not come into it - it never has and never will."

"And as for Hoacoatl, he has my continued support. I understand his logic, even if it is slightly unorthodox, possibly even repugnant to us here in Port Kaeir. But he is not in Port Kaeir, and so he is reacting as is appropriate to the situation, and doing what is necessary to protect the trade and Rimrivertown. I have every faith in the man, and I personally would not tolerate his occupation of that office if it was otherwise. Now, unless we want to be dogmatic about it, and put it to a vote ("I think not", mutter Jafaarsan sarcastically, "it is clear that Adin only has the minority of support in this matter, so we will not waste our time"), I will declare the matter closed."

The messenger bowed deeply as he entered the welcoming chamber of the Grand Shaman, breathing the wave of smoky incense as he did. "Grand Shaman, O Lord Snake be praised, i come bearing a message of attrition from the foreign chief at the river-mouth village."

"Lord Snake be praised, for he blesses the supplicant", intoned Sri Nagavallur, Grand Shaman of all the Rimriver tribes, lifting his hands in acceptance of the greeting.

"In the name of Righter of Wrongs I am sent with a message and an offer", the messenger continued as he momentarily prostrated himself before the old man, "so that past errors may be rectified, and forgiveness earned for past wrongs."

"Very good little one, for it is only the Righter of Wrongs that may avert the power of the Vengeful Shadow", returned Sri Nagavallur. The Grand Shaman paused for a second as he took he how knowledgeable the young man before him was, evidently he had been chosen by his foreign master for this reason.

"Tell me boy, how does one in the employ of the foreigners possess such knowledge of the Ancient Ways? Why are you not a temple servant or even a shaman, as a good son of the Serpent should be, instead of profaning yourself with these foreigners?"

Taking Grand Shaman's nod as his cue, the messenger sat on the cushioned carpet laid out before the Grand Shaman, designed in such a way that the supplicant when seated was always a head lower than the Grand Shaman (even though the Grand Shaman himself was quite short). "O Sri Nagavallur, I am but a humble servant. Sri Dhesker, our noble Grand Chief in whose employ I was, sent me to advise the Lord of the Foreigners in their settlement at the mouth of the river. I was instructed to advise him and to translate for him, in short to earn his trust, so that I might be an ear for the Grand Chief in the house of the Lord of the Foreigners. Unfortunately the good Lord of the Foreigners in his enthusiasm did not listen to me when he offered to build a temple to the Righteous Servant. This is why I have come, to offer apologies to you on his behalf and to make amends."

At this, the Grand Shaman growled, pulling his black fur cloak tighter around his shoulders, his face disappearing even more into his cowl. "Young man, I do not like these foreigners. They settle at the mouth of the Rimriver, at the very mouth of the river of Naga itself, and then begin introducing foreign ways amongst the youth. Why, my own niece has developed a fancy for the jewellery of the foreigners."

"O Sri Nagavallur", intoned the messenger in the ritualistic manner, "they are not the devils that some imagine. Sri Dhesker is a pious Grand Chief, and he would not associate himself with any enemies of the Watchful One. They are different, but they have brought benefit to our people. The lives of the people have been made better thanks to the trade, as much back-breaking labour has been avoided thanks to the cheapness of the tools and other items the foreigners bring. This in turn allows the farmers, artisans and wives to spend their time on more important activities instead, be it farming, artisanry or the teaching of the children.

"Furthermore, O Sri Nagavallur, the Lord of Foreigners has come under great criticism from his own people for offering to build a temple to the Righteous Serpent. He is not seeking to corrupt our young ones, but maintain friendship with our people, and especially with you, O Lord of the Shamans."

Sri Nagavallur raised his head at this, his cowl falling back to reveal his wizened, bearded face, and the deep blue spiralling tattoes flowed from around his eyes down the rest of his body. "So all is not well in the foreigners' villages? Why would a noble risk his lordship for the sake of strangers? What kind of fool do you work for, boy?"

"My apologies, Sri Nagavallur, for not explaining more thoroughly", said the messenger, "the Lord of Foreigners is himself is but an servant of his people, and was sent here from his own land to establish trade with us. It is clear from my discussions with him that his main orders are to protect the foreigners' trade with us, and with the mountain people to the east. This is why he has undertaken many risky actions, from the original alliance that saw the foreigners fight alongside our warriors, to the many bands he has sent upriver to trade with the mountain people, to this latest attempt to honour the Snake Lord. Only his masters across the see can withdraw his title, and they are interested in trade primarily, not the manner in which he secures it. In his mind, the first priority in protecting trade is to maintain friendship with our people, particularly the Grand Chief and yourself, O Sri Nagavallur."

"Hmmm, boy, tell me then what your Lord of Foreigners wishes to say to me, for I will hear it", the Grand Shaman ordered, much to the relief of the messenger, who had been awaiting for the moment when permission to apologise would be given.

"O Sri Nagavallur, Servant of the Righteous Serpent, Lord Hoacoatl the lord of the foreigners, wishes to appease the Vengeful Shadow for the offence caused, and seeks to please the Righter of Wrongs by recompensing your holy self for the offences caused. As proof of Lord Hoacoatl's sincerity, he invites your holy self to name the form of recompense."

His face still uncovered, the Grand Shaman began absentmindedly tracing the blue serpents that spiralled across his face, "Well put, boy, that is one of the better apologies I have heard. The form, content and rhyme was highly appropriate. I shall have to contemplate this matter deeply, and shall contact you later when I have decided. Now you must tell me, who are you? You are not some simple trader's son, or one from one of those uncouth clans that have settled in the foreigners' village, are you?"

"No, holy one. My mother's father was Manivallur, the High Shaman of the northern hills. My own name is Manipillai. My mother sent me when I was young to be raised in his household, so I learnt much of his calling, and assisted him in some of his rituals. But the men of my father's line have always been traders, so there was no question of what occupation I would take up when I was a child, O Sri Nagavallur."

"Oh, I remember Manivallur, I spend a year of my apprenticeship in his valley. I am sad to hear that he is no longer the High Shaman there. He was a true servant of the Dark Saviour, and was loved by the people for that. Evidently your lineage runs true in your veins boy. Though you are not a shaman, it is comforting to see that such a son of Nagasri serves both the Grand Chief and the Lord of Foreigners. You may go now, and tell your master that things can be resolved. When I have decided the matter, I will visit him, and we will see what will need to be done."

"Very well, O Sri Nagavallur, and my deepest thanks", the messenger said as he bowed deeply towards the old man. He lifted his head for a moment, "there is one other thing, O Sri Nagavallur, that my master asked to be mentioned, and which I believe is not inappropriate to mention to you."

"Very well, speak, boy."

"O Sri Nagavallur, the masters of the Lord of Foreigners have made a request to the Grand Chief, asking for permission to employee ten bands of Panchayyah youth as warriors in their army across the seas. The Grand Chief intends to discuss this with you, but the Lord of Foreigners told me to mention this to you so that you would not be unpleasantly surprised when Sri Dhesker does speak to you. And, if I may be so bold, O Sri Nagavallur...."

"Please, boy, be bold", the Grand Shaman said quickly.

"I think the idea holds merit. We know the foreigners are great warriors - this can be seen in the fact that with only two bands of their own warriors, they helped the Panchayyah bands conquer the western Rimriver, and dominate the rest. If our youth serve in their armies for a few years, they will return as great warriors, with all the knowledge and skills of war the foreigners possess. This would strengthen our people tremendously,

"Thank you boy, your loyalty to Nagasri and his people is evident. It becomes clearer and clearer that you are indeed the grandson of Manivallur, with every wise word you speak. But before you go, does your foreign master know of your esteemed noble lineage?"

Manipillai smiled, and then bowed again,"No, O Sri Nagavallur, he does not." And as the Grand Shaman chuckled, Manipillai left.

Action 3-4: Aid to Ban Horroth Trader Caste

Resolution: Diff = Hard (-1) + Dice (+-++) + Extras (double: +1) = +1 Success

Dice: fp=2

• Priest caste: +1
• Grand abbot: -1
• Commercial bribes: +1
• Luck: +1

Results:

Interpretation:

Actions for Mir

Action submission

Action 1 & 2: Union

With the fear of Ice Deamon invasion in Videssia. Mir and Burcany are preparing the military to help. Mir is sending a request to the Eerith to uses the Floating city as a communication / observation base. The base would be where Ria and aids would be stationed since they are really the only foriegners the Eerith trust. The base would not have a military presence other then the Warlords guards all of who served with her in the last war and are known to the Eerith. Since it is currently located over Videssia it will be used as a coordination base since it does have a birds eye view of the country side. Burcancy will send an offer to the Videssian cities offer Burcancy and their allies aid. Burcancy and Mir will send a request to Parglug and the Jundar region to see if they would be willing to unite against the Ice Deamons. The goal would to gather the four armies in the Jundar region to prepare to drive the Ice Deamons out of Videssia and out of this part of the contenent.

Difficulty: Hard

Weight: Double

Factors: One for Jundar is the fact that the Exquaestio are working towards the same end. As for the Eerith (comments from Keaton) would be more willing to allow Ria and her staff from the last war to uses the floating city as a command/communication center.

Fudge Ponts: (If I got any for the government article juuso uses one of them.)

Action 3 & 4: War

While attempting to unit the varies countries against the Ice Deamon threat. Mir and Burcancy are beginning to move their armies. Portions of the Mirish and Burcancy armies will be places along the Buircancy/Parglug border to defend Burcancy proper. The Mirrish navy will be used to begin shipping in food supplies from Celamyr, Yora’Timar and northern Burcancy to where the army is stationed. The Burcancy Navy will be sent to Videssia to help supply the cities and remove any refugees. The rest of the army will begin to prepare to move to join the armies in Jundar if that is the case or prepare to travel to be carried by ship to Videssia.

Difficulty: Normal (we have been preparing for this for a couple years.)

Weight: Double

Fudge Points: 0

Action resolution

Action 1-2: Union

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

Dice: 1 fp

• Eerith cooperation: +1
• Military preparations: 0
• Parglug (& Jundar): -1
• Luck: +1

Results:

Interpretation:

Action 3-4: War

Resolution: Diff = Normal (0) + Dice (+-++) + Extras (double: +1) = +3 Great success

Dice:

• Army transport: +1
• Supply chain: -1
• Videssia reaction: +1
• Ice Demon reaction: +1

Results: The plan works like a clock, the only difficulity being the very difficult supply chain. It would be better to arrange the supply chain from the Free cities, but so far this has not succeed. Videssia refugees flock to the seaside, and the Ice Demons gracefully keep well inland.

Interpretation:

Actions for (Society)

Action submission

Action resolution

Action 1:

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

Dice:

• :
• :
• :
• :

Results:

Interpretation:

-- Juuso Vesanto - 01 Mar 2005