Colchis - 830.M30
The sun's relentless gaze bore down upon the assembled tribe, casting long shadows that danced across the shifting sands. Lorgar stood tall at the forefront, his presence commanding, yet a subtle tension lingered in the air despite his efforts to unify the tribe.
The recent integration of the guards had stirred mixed emotions among the tribesmen. While Lorgar's impassioned speeches had soothed many, some still harbored doubts and resentments. The guards themselves felt the weight of uncertainty, unsure of their place in this new world.
Lorgar had addressed the tribe, his voice resonating with conviction. He had spoken of unity, of the need to set aside old grievances and embrace a future forged in solidarity. He had praised the guards for their bravery, welcoming them as equals into the tribe's fold.
Yet, despite his eloquence, whispers of distrust and suspicion still fluttered among the crowd. Some questioned the guards' loyalty, while others feared they would disrupt the tribe's delicate balance.
At the heart of the gathering, the grand elders stood, their faces etched with the wisdom of ages. They awaited your permission to commence the meeting, a ritual and a gesture of respect for your leadership as Chieftain.
With a solemn nod, you granted them permission, and Elder Guran, the eldest among them, stepped forward. His voice, weathered by time yet still commanding, resonated across the gathering.
"Brothers and sisters of the tribe," he began, his words carrying the weight of authority. "We have convened to discuss the resources recovered from the Caravan and their allocation for the benefit of all."
The elders deliberated, their voices a blend of wisdom and concern. Elder Tarik reported the count of supplies, detailing the abundance of food, medicine, and tools. Elder Mira spoke of the archeotech's discovery, emphasizing its rarity and potential value to the tribe.
The discussion ebbed and flowed, each elder offering insights and proposals. Some advocated for trade, leveraging the excess supplies for goods the tribe lacked. Others suggested fortification, using the weapons and tools to bolster defenses against potential threats.
As the debate unfolded, you listened intently, weighing each suggestion against the tribe's needs and aspirations. Every decision made in this meeting would shape the tribe's destiny, and you were determined to choose wisely.
Finally, after much deliberation, you raised your hand, signaling for silence. The elders turned to you, their gazes expectant, awaiting your decision.
"We have discovered sufficient reagents to mend the oasis," you proclaimed, your voice carrying across the gathered tribe, met with murmurs of approval. The oasis, a vital lifeline in the unforgiving desert, offered much-needed water and sustenance to the tribe.
Elder Garaq, with a solemn and unwavering demeanor, nodded in agreement. "The restoration of the oasis must be our paramount concern," he declared. "It is our key to survival, providing a vital and enduring water source for generations to come."
The conversation then shifted to the ancient and mystical art of Rain Calling. Raheem proposed training select individuals in this potent sorcery, a suggestion that piqued the cautious interest of the elders.
As concerns about the risks of sorcery surfaced, Raheem stepped forward, his presence commanding attention. "I understand your fears," he began, his voice a soothing yet authoritative melody. "But the spirits are willing partners. They see our potential and are eager to share their power."
Raheem explained that the spirits had offered a contract to the tribe, granting the ability to summon storms without endangering their lives or souls. "Storm calling is a natural gift," Raheem clarified. "The spirits are willing to bestow this boon upon us."
Despite their intrigue, the elders remained wary, fearing the unknown consequences of delving into sorcery. Raheem reassured them, "We shall tread carefully, calling upon storms only when absolutely necessary and under the guiding hand of the spirits. We will not overstep our bounds or incur the wrath of higher powers."
Reluctantly, the elders agreed to explore rain-calling sorcery under Raheem's guidance, recognizing its potential as a powerful asset. However, Lorgar interjected with a proposal of his own.
"I propose the integration of Rain Callers into our army," Lorgar declared, his eyes burning with determination. "The ability to summon heavy rain before assaults or to veil our retreat could confuse and disorient our enemies, granting us a decisive advantage in battle."
The elders deliberated Lorgar's proposal. After careful consideration, they decided to initiate a group of volunteers into the art of Rain Calling sorcery, with Lorgar appointed as their leader.
As the discussion turned to sustenance, Lorgar rose, his gaze unwavering. "I propose a test of our army's strength and skill," he announced, his voice echoing with authority. "Let us seek to capture and subdue as many Grox as we can."
Grox, formidable beasts, solitary and fierce, roamed the desert in search of prey. Capturing them would require not just strength, but also cunning and skill. Yet, Lorgar believed it to be a worthy endeavor.
"We must demonstrate our prowess in hunting and providing," Lorgar continued, his eyes scanning the tribe. "Capturing Grox will not only secure sustenance but also showcase our strength to any who would challenge us."
The elders deliberated, recognizing the risks involved in Lorgar's proposal. After much debate, they agreed to send a cadre of skilled hunters on the daunting task. All eyes turned to you, the Chieftain, for the final word. It was time to speak.
"My fellow tribesmen," you began, your voice resonating like a thunderclap, "we stand at a pivotal moment, where the choices we make today will shape our tomorrow." Your gaze swept over the assembly, meeting each eye with unwavering determination.
"As we contemplate the proposals to hunt the Grox and harness the power of the Rain Callers, we must tread with utmost care," you declared, your voice resonating with authority. "Though these endeavors hold promise, they are not without peril."
With a sweeping gesture toward the hunters preparing for the Grox hunt, you spoke with conviction. "The Grox are no mere quarry. They are lords of the desert, solitary and fierce. To challenge them recklessly is to court disaster. We must first sharpen our skills on lesser game, lest we face defeat before the true test begins."
Shifting focus to the Rain Callers, you raised a cautionary hand. "The ability to summon storms is a gift of immense magnitude, but it comes with a burden of great responsibility. We must be mindful of the forces we invoke, for the fury of nature is not easily quelled."
The tribe listened intently, their eyes wide with respect and understanding. Your words struck a chord within them, stirring a deep sense of reverence and caution. They grasped the gravity of the choices ahead and the need for prudent action in the face of such potent forces.
Elder Garaq, his voice now tempered with caution, spoke up. "Chieftain, your wisdom is evident. We shall heed your counsel and reconsider the Grox hunt, focusing instead on honing our skills with more manageable game. As for the Rain Callers, we shall proceed cautiously, beginning with simpler rituals to gauge their mastery over the magic."
As murmurs of agreement rippled through the tribe, Lorgar stepped forward, his presence commanding attention. His eyes gleamed with determination, his voice steady and resolute.
"Chieftain, respected elders, I understand the concerns raised, but I offer a different view," Lorgar began, his words measured yet impassioned. "The Grox present not just a challenge, but an opportunity. By testing our mettle against them, we not only demonstrate our prowess as hunters but also gain valuable herds and a bounty of meat. Grox are a treasure trove, able to survive and thrive in the harshest conditions."
He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "As for the Rain Callers, their power could be our greatest asset in warfare. Imagine being able to summon a deluge to mask our movements or confound our foes. It could be the decisive edge that secures our victory."
Lorgar's words ignited a spark within the tribe, a sense of daring and ambition. They began to see the Grox hunt and the integration of the Rain Callers not just as risks, but as bold ventures with the potential for great reward.
The elders deliberated once more, their expressions contemplative. After a moment of silence, Elder Garaq spoke again, his voice measured yet firm.
"Lorgar presents compelling arguments," he conceded. "While the dangers are real, so are the potential benefits. Perhaps a middle ground is prudent. We proceed with the Grox hunt, but with a smaller, skilled group and under strict supervision. As for the Rain Callers, we commence with basic training, gradually advancing to more complex tasks."
As the discussion continued, the tribe debated fervently, weighing the risks and rewards of both endeavors. Some voiced fervent support for the hunt, viewing it as a testament to the tribe's strength and a source of vital resources. Others expressed trepidation about the dangers and the potential for conflict with the Grox.
Opinions on integrating the Rain Callers into the army were similarly divided. Some saw the potential strategic advantages, while others worried about the unpredictable nature of sorcery and its impact on tradition and way of life.
As Chieftain, all eyes turned to you, awaiting your decision. You listened to the arguments carefully, weighing the risks and benefits. After a moment of contemplation, you raised your hand for silence.
"I have heard your counsel, and I value the passion and wisdom in your words," you began, your voice carrying the weight of leadership. "After careful consideration, I have reached a decision."
CHOICE:
[] (Grox): Accept Lorgar's Proposal to take over the Taming Project. This allows you to clear the Oasis this turn instead.
– This will start a tradition where members, after training, will go hunt a Grox in the Wild.
[] (Grox): Refuse, let the army work their way up.
– You proceed as planned for this Project
[] (Grox): Write in a middle ground
[] (Rain callers): Accept the Proposal and integrate the Rain callers into the Army.
– You get a few people for VEE and the spirits will contract with them, ensuring that the Perils of the Warp do not affect them, though miscastes can be deadly to them. This starts the beginning of the Librarius idea for when Lorgar meets his legion.
[] (Rain callers): Too soon. Sorcery is dangerous, best take baby steps.
– This is the safer option but it will become much harder for the Rain callers to be integrated into the Legion later on.
[] (Rain callers): Write in a middle ground