Behind the Serpent Throne (CK2)
- Thread starter The Laurent
- Start date
- Original Fantasy
Random Member
Gardener of Human Happiness
- Location
- Behind You
If the Prince manages to take the throne and controls the Empire, no amount of mercenaries is going to defeat him.
And who would he be trying to place on the throne anyway? It's been mentioned multiple times that the Prince would have the Emperor killed sooner or later.
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keios
very normal
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- US
No chance we could pull a Cromwell and end up serving a different master? Jinhai might appreciate keeping a schemer like Kiralo around, especially since Kiralo will owe everything to him if he does survive...
Random Member
Gardener of Human Happiness
- Location
- Behind You
Problem: we're Kuojah's son. I can imagine many of the Prince's supporters wanting us dead only for that. And the Empire, like China, seems to like punishing entire families for the crimes of a single person.
keios
very normal
- Location
- US
Yeah, one can hope though. :X lol
- Pronouns
- They/Them
Focus on victory.
keios
very normal
- Location
- US
Depending on how much time the next update covers, could just be out of my hands
- Location
- Spain
Kiralo wouldn't do this even if it could pull it off. It means betraying the emperor, and he considers him almost a living god.
(Plus, you know, it's murdering a seven years old boy)
keios
very normal
- Location
- US
For the record, I was making a Wolf Hall reference, which I grant I didn't make clear, and I also realize it's not the best match to the current situation. But he doesn't murder Wolsey. In fact, he gets close to the source of power to try to save Wolsey, and when that fails he swears revenge upon everyone who brought his master down. The irony is that in order to exact vengeance on most of his enemies, he has to stop holding Henry VIII accountable at all. In this case, obviously, there's nothing Kiralo can do to save the emperor if Jinhai wins. But if there's already nothing left of the old order to fight for anymore *shrug*
Lied so hard about the omens that the spirits believed it?
Turn 8--Results, C
- Pronouns
- They/Them
Turn 8--Results C
Politics was in part the art of seeing what could be traded away. Perhaps this was true of all endeavors. Certainly, no general could have everything, and each decision, so many said, cut off other paths. The world was a constant pruning, in the eyes of a few known scholars, pruning away decisions both wise and unwise, until what was left was the will of the heavens itself, however unlikely this may seem.
So, Kiralo traded. He pruned and thought. He knew what he wanted and he knew what he was willing to give up.
*****
"Our heroic defenders," he said, stepping before the council in full armor, "Should not be treated as we treat misers! The Emperor has entrusted them, all of them, myself included, with a holy and divine mission!"
This got nods of approval. The ad-hoc council was largely dominated by generals, men of war, and bureaucrats who dealt with logistics, so of course playing to their belief in their importance would win out. "And I believe that there is no harm, and much good, in giving them titles, honors, and salaries requisite of the duties they shall perform. If they fail, of course, the Emperor might judge them worthy of punishment, or unworthy of high honor, but what is a general without his own honor and sense of worth? He will be loyal no matter what, but there are ways that his loyalty might be reinforced, might be redoubled."
Kiralo shook his head, "And these men of high rank and birth are just the men for this honor. For much of their lives they have served the Empire, and now they wish to serve it in another way. Their honor and willingness to contribute for the cause of the Holy Emperor himself is without doubt to any of us, and their capacity for bravery--"
******
"How much will it be?" A young man asked, "I'd like to control a small group of men, perhaps a hundred, in order to win fame and glory for our line. For two hundred years, since we lost the Southlands, it has been dishonor on our name!"
He raised an arm up, as if pointing at the sky, "It has been shame! And I am willing to pay for the chance to prove them all wrong, to show that ours is a lineage that may yet do great things, that our lands, though poor, have a rich crop of loyal soldiers."
Kiralo looked down at the paper, and at the sum listed on the paper and nodded, "Indeed. You may take two guards of yours with you, should you wish. Any others would have to enlist. You will be compensated partially for any expenses towards the upkeep of your soldiers, which will be assigned at the proper time."
He had said this, or something like this, to far too many people. Some were dramatic, some plain and mercenary, but all came with money. All come, in fact, with promises and vows and sometimes references to speak of their skill, and the fact that the Empire was gilding the army with titles drew notice.
Perhaps it would be a threat. If someone rose to prominence and fame as a warrior and general...and they weren't Kiralo (and he could acknowledge the hypocrisy of this distinction) then it would give him a base of power that might eventually create all sorts of problems.
People went where the power and money was, and for a long time, since the borders had solidified and the Sea-Raiders had been unable to do more than moderate damage, the army had not been it. For almost a century, the doctrine had been rather standard, the enemies usually no more threatening than a few bandits, and that was what had allowed Kuojah to pursue his policy of isolationism. Success and relative peace.
And now the world was shifting again. The tide might swamp all boats, but Kiralo intended to ride it.
*****
"I wonder whether this will be a smart move," Qing'lu said. "History shows us many examples of generals getting out of control."
"If you don't trust me, you don't trust me...and you're going to be there, Cs-Qing'lu," Kiralo said, "I think you would be a good fit for controlling any number of fields."
"Logistics is often a home of madmen and fools," Qing'lu said, "Either way, you're going to have far more pretenders for powerful titles than you will have titles." The man, in his late forties said, "It's Chao you're interested in, isn't it?"
"Among other people. Cs-Chao wanted to reform the cavalry, and I have been working to improve them. He could be a very good help, and you, I've heard you're a bandit-killing general."
"Twice Respected Upper Honor Bandit Killing General to you," Qing'lu said, with a sardonic twist to his voice. It was true that the names and titles that had been bestowed could be a little bit ridiculous, in one sense. Ranks and distinctions forged out of nothing, nothing other than old traditions.
"When you put it that way, it is almost ridiculous," Kiralo said, looking at the other man. Powerful, as powerful as him in fact, even if Kiralo planned on rising still farther.
"If I am to help with logistics, allow me to make a suggestion. Cs-Hong'no of the division of cartiers and roads, as well as Cs-Han, who will likely be in charge of camp management should be fired." Qing'lu paused.
Kiralo frowned and nodded, "I could do that."
"Out of a cannon," Qing'lu continued, with a vicious grin. "Into a wall, just to make sure."
"...I will endeavor to do my best by you, Cs-Qing'lu," Kiralo said, bowing respectfully, "But would it not be a waste of gunpowder?"
*****
Logistics was something that Kueli was best at, but Kiralo knew that there were secrets to it. And one of them was to find people that were trusted and rely on them for what was needed. As it was, the fact was simple. Carts were the main form of transport able to hold as much material as they needed. Rice was easy to transport, at least in terms of storing it, but it was bulky. Water was more difficult, and there had to be all sorts of supplies for even a short trip. There were caches along the road in Csrae, but that could only go so far.
They'd have to make camp every day in a defensible location, which meant on top of the problems of speed caused by an endless wagon train, and the fact that it meant that there was something to attack if Prince Jinhai had good cavalry, there were limits on how far an army could travel. If they traveled too far from one defensible position but not close enough to another, than it meant they'd have to camp in less than ideal conditions. Of course, digging and hard work could make even the worst position moderately defensible, but that was more work, which meant more food to feed the hungry workers, and the train of armorers and smiths and drudges and women and men of the night and priests and cartiers and grocers and merchants, to swindle the soldiers out of the pay ahead of time--
Just thinking about it was a vast headache, and the complications only rolled in. And there were only so many solutions. Faster pack animals, and hardier ones, could help, and Kiralo began searching in that respect.
Hardier animals meant more that could keep up with the pace of the army, which being primarily foot soldiers would have to drag along. And that meant that there would have to be less waiting, more elasticity of supplies.
Kiralo rubbed between his eyes as he figured out how to detail caravan guards and plotted and mapped a route. He thought he could shave a few days here and there out of the movement without pushing the men too hard and without leaving the baggage train behind, but no more than that.
Most of the real work was less reform, though he tried to do that, and more making sure there was no corruption. The army could move much faster in a perfect world, but as long as it moved fully supplied, clothed, and fed, that was good enough.
Which meant he had to plan every stage of the campaign in advance. And of course, one he did so there were a dozen ways this could go, and so he had to build up redundancy and--"
"Sir," a servant said. He stepped in and bowed. "Word has come. Riders seen in the distance. Flying the banners of a Rassit."
Gain +2 to all rolls involving logistics for the coming war. Other advantages as well (though often just the lack of disadvantages.)
******
Kueli rode through the gate on a splendid white horse. Not the horse he came on, either, and not even a Rassit horse. Instead, it seemed as if it was merely a local charger, chosen to highlight the dark hair and dashing figure of Kiralo's lieutenant, who wore armor tinged with hints, playful and yet politically dangerous, of silver.
He looked little older, and Kiralo glanced at the men besides him before trotting forward on his own horse.
"Hail! Well met!" Kiralo said in Southlander, aware that there was an audience of hundreds, if not thousands of city-dwellers watching, packing the streets, cleared out only by his guards. Watching the arrival. Muttering, whispering about him.
"Ah, and here I thought you forgot!" Kueli yelled, taking off his helmet, "Forgot your second tongue!"
"Never, never! But don't think that it's all that private, plenty of people can understand us." Kiralo rode forward, close enough to touch him, and then dismounted.
Kueli half-leapt out of the saddle to bring Kiralo into a bracing, powerful hug and said, "You look well. Been putting on the pounds? Met anyone that feeds you well?"
"My cook is quite excellent, it is too bad that you will not be able to sample his food. You'd get along."
"Oho, you have your own cook? Do you have a live-in-lover, with gold in his hair?" Kueli asked with an insinuating grin.
Kiralo didn't blush, but only because this was not in private, "No, no, nothing like that. You won't be able to come for obvious reasons, but I assume you are camped outside the city."
"Yeah, yeah," Kueli said, "Found a good place too, if you want to move the troops there, eventually."
"Perhaps," Kiralo said.
"And then you can convince them all to revolt, we can take this city, and you can be the Emperor when I go off and beat Prince Jinhai for you," Kueli said, leaning in enough that only Kiralo could hear.
Kiralo burst out laughing, "No! No! Spare me!"
"You'd have to give up too much power?" Kueli asked.
"Probably, but more importantly...don't talk about that sort of thing, not here. Or anywhere, for that matter," Kiralo was smiling, but the facts on the ground were the facts on the ground. Talk like that could kill him, in the right circumstances.
"More seriously," Kueli said, "I've been down at the border drinking and seducing and plotting and scheming, and so I really hope you were doing the same."
"Some of the same. You should see the light cavalry we have to join with you, right now."
"Why? Am I supposed to point and laugh?"
"You're supposed to figure out how to work with them. Though...there will be a man who will oversee them that should be a decent enough leader."
Keuli gave a mock salute and said, "If I can't see the palce, can I at least see the barracks, and get something to eat?"
"Of course," Kiralo said.
He stumbled home, surrounded by guards but thoroughly drunk, at three in the morning the next day, wishing he'd never taken Kueli's advice.
******
When he awoke, groaning and exhausted and with full memory of what happened, unfortunately, he regretted it even more. Not that he'd done much, besides an unfortunate instance of flirting or two, but because today he had interviews. There were figures trying to muscle and power into the top slots of the army, or asking for commissions, and while there were only so many positions, it was important that the most important positions be filled well, and today, with only a few days until word came of the Prince's inevitable reply...interviews were going to be held, in more depth.
He'd prepared well, and had a list of names that he was interested in, and so all that was left was to talk to them. A long, involved process, and one that took most of the day.
Alright! So, You have a list of choices here. Each general, as with the Imperial Mages, serves as a potential person that can be assigned to positions, etc, etc (Choose 4)
[] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
[] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
[] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
*****
A/N: Those not chosen won't disappear, but they won't be available for sending wherever you want or using to gain bonuses on certain phases/in certain actions.
Politics was in part the art of seeing what could be traded away. Perhaps this was true of all endeavors. Certainly, no general could have everything, and each decision, so many said, cut off other paths. The world was a constant pruning, in the eyes of a few known scholars, pruning away decisions both wise and unwise, until what was left was the will of the heavens itself, however unlikely this may seem.
So, Kiralo traded. He pruned and thought. He knew what he wanted and he knew what he was willing to give up.
*****
"Our heroic defenders," he said, stepping before the council in full armor, "Should not be treated as we treat misers! The Emperor has entrusted them, all of them, myself included, with a holy and divine mission!"
This got nods of approval. The ad-hoc council was largely dominated by generals, men of war, and bureaucrats who dealt with logistics, so of course playing to their belief in their importance would win out. "And I believe that there is no harm, and much good, in giving them titles, honors, and salaries requisite of the duties they shall perform. If they fail, of course, the Emperor might judge them worthy of punishment, or unworthy of high honor, but what is a general without his own honor and sense of worth? He will be loyal no matter what, but there are ways that his loyalty might be reinforced, might be redoubled."
Kiralo shook his head, "And these men of high rank and birth are just the men for this honor. For much of their lives they have served the Empire, and now they wish to serve it in another way. Their honor and willingness to contribute for the cause of the Holy Emperor himself is without doubt to any of us, and their capacity for bravery--"
******
"How much will it be?" A young man asked, "I'd like to control a small group of men, perhaps a hundred, in order to win fame and glory for our line. For two hundred years, since we lost the Southlands, it has been dishonor on our name!"
He raised an arm up, as if pointing at the sky, "It has been shame! And I am willing to pay for the chance to prove them all wrong, to show that ours is a lineage that may yet do great things, that our lands, though poor, have a rich crop of loyal soldiers."
Kiralo looked down at the paper, and at the sum listed on the paper and nodded, "Indeed. You may take two guards of yours with you, should you wish. Any others would have to enlist. You will be compensated partially for any expenses towards the upkeep of your soldiers, which will be assigned at the proper time."
He had said this, or something like this, to far too many people. Some were dramatic, some plain and mercenary, but all came with money. All come, in fact, with promises and vows and sometimes references to speak of their skill, and the fact that the Empire was gilding the army with titles drew notice.
Perhaps it would be a threat. If someone rose to prominence and fame as a warrior and general...and they weren't Kiralo (and he could acknowledge the hypocrisy of this distinction) then it would give him a base of power that might eventually create all sorts of problems.
People went where the power and money was, and for a long time, since the borders had solidified and the Sea-Raiders had been unable to do more than moderate damage, the army had not been it. For almost a century, the doctrine had been rather standard, the enemies usually no more threatening than a few bandits, and that was what had allowed Kuojah to pursue his policy of isolationism. Success and relative peace.
And now the world was shifting again. The tide might swamp all boats, but Kiralo intended to ride it.
*****
"I wonder whether this will be a smart move," Qing'lu said. "History shows us many examples of generals getting out of control."
"If you don't trust me, you don't trust me...and you're going to be there, Cs-Qing'lu," Kiralo said, "I think you would be a good fit for controlling any number of fields."
"Logistics is often a home of madmen and fools," Qing'lu said, "Either way, you're going to have far more pretenders for powerful titles than you will have titles." The man, in his late forties said, "It's Chao you're interested in, isn't it?"
"Among other people. Cs-Chao wanted to reform the cavalry, and I have been working to improve them. He could be a very good help, and you, I've heard you're a bandit-killing general."
"Twice Respected Upper Honor Bandit Killing General to you," Qing'lu said, with a sardonic twist to his voice. It was true that the names and titles that had been bestowed could be a little bit ridiculous, in one sense. Ranks and distinctions forged out of nothing, nothing other than old traditions.
"When you put it that way, it is almost ridiculous," Kiralo said, looking at the other man. Powerful, as powerful as him in fact, even if Kiralo planned on rising still farther.
"If I am to help with logistics, allow me to make a suggestion. Cs-Hong'no of the division of cartiers and roads, as well as Cs-Han, who will likely be in charge of camp management should be fired." Qing'lu paused.
Kiralo frowned and nodded, "I could do that."
"Out of a cannon," Qing'lu continued, with a vicious grin. "Into a wall, just to make sure."
"...I will endeavor to do my best by you, Cs-Qing'lu," Kiralo said, bowing respectfully, "But would it not be a waste of gunpowder?"
*****
Logistics was something that Kueli was best at, but Kiralo knew that there were secrets to it. And one of them was to find people that were trusted and rely on them for what was needed. As it was, the fact was simple. Carts were the main form of transport able to hold as much material as they needed. Rice was easy to transport, at least in terms of storing it, but it was bulky. Water was more difficult, and there had to be all sorts of supplies for even a short trip. There were caches along the road in Csrae, but that could only go so far.
They'd have to make camp every day in a defensible location, which meant on top of the problems of speed caused by an endless wagon train, and the fact that it meant that there was something to attack if Prince Jinhai had good cavalry, there were limits on how far an army could travel. If they traveled too far from one defensible position but not close enough to another, than it meant they'd have to camp in less than ideal conditions. Of course, digging and hard work could make even the worst position moderately defensible, but that was more work, which meant more food to feed the hungry workers, and the train of armorers and smiths and drudges and women and men of the night and priests and cartiers and grocers and merchants, to swindle the soldiers out of the pay ahead of time--
Just thinking about it was a vast headache, and the complications only rolled in. And there were only so many solutions. Faster pack animals, and hardier ones, could help, and Kiralo began searching in that respect.
Hardier animals meant more that could keep up with the pace of the army, which being primarily foot soldiers would have to drag along. And that meant that there would have to be less waiting, more elasticity of supplies.
Kiralo rubbed between his eyes as he figured out how to detail caravan guards and plotted and mapped a route. He thought he could shave a few days here and there out of the movement without pushing the men too hard and without leaving the baggage train behind, but no more than that.
Most of the real work was less reform, though he tried to do that, and more making sure there was no corruption. The army could move much faster in a perfect world, but as long as it moved fully supplied, clothed, and fed, that was good enough.
Which meant he had to plan every stage of the campaign in advance. And of course, one he did so there were a dozen ways this could go, and so he had to build up redundancy and--"
"Sir," a servant said. He stepped in and bowed. "Word has come. Riders seen in the distance. Flying the banners of a Rassit."
Gain +2 to all rolls involving logistics for the coming war. Other advantages as well (though often just the lack of disadvantages.)
******
Kueli rode through the gate on a splendid white horse. Not the horse he came on, either, and not even a Rassit horse. Instead, it seemed as if it was merely a local charger, chosen to highlight the dark hair and dashing figure of Kiralo's lieutenant, who wore armor tinged with hints, playful and yet politically dangerous, of silver.
He looked little older, and Kiralo glanced at the men besides him before trotting forward on his own horse.
"Hail! Well met!" Kiralo said in Southlander, aware that there was an audience of hundreds, if not thousands of city-dwellers watching, packing the streets, cleared out only by his guards. Watching the arrival. Muttering, whispering about him.
"Ah, and here I thought you forgot!" Kueli yelled, taking off his helmet, "Forgot your second tongue!"
"Never, never! But don't think that it's all that private, plenty of people can understand us." Kiralo rode forward, close enough to touch him, and then dismounted.
Kueli half-leapt out of the saddle to bring Kiralo into a bracing, powerful hug and said, "You look well. Been putting on the pounds? Met anyone that feeds you well?"
"My cook is quite excellent, it is too bad that you will not be able to sample his food. You'd get along."
"Oho, you have your own cook? Do you have a live-in-lover, with gold in his hair?" Kueli asked with an insinuating grin.
Kiralo didn't blush, but only because this was not in private, "No, no, nothing like that. You won't be able to come for obvious reasons, but I assume you are camped outside the city."
"Yeah, yeah," Kueli said, "Found a good place too, if you want to move the troops there, eventually."
"Perhaps," Kiralo said.
"And then you can convince them all to revolt, we can take this city, and you can be the Emperor when I go off and beat Prince Jinhai for you," Kueli said, leaning in enough that only Kiralo could hear.
Kiralo burst out laughing, "No! No! Spare me!"
"You'd have to give up too much power?" Kueli asked.
"Probably, but more importantly...don't talk about that sort of thing, not here. Or anywhere, for that matter," Kiralo was smiling, but the facts on the ground were the facts on the ground. Talk like that could kill him, in the right circumstances.
"More seriously," Kueli said, "I've been down at the border drinking and seducing and plotting and scheming, and so I really hope you were doing the same."
"Some of the same. You should see the light cavalry we have to join with you, right now."
"Why? Am I supposed to point and laugh?"
"You're supposed to figure out how to work with them. Though...there will be a man who will oversee them that should be a decent enough leader."
Keuli gave a mock salute and said, "If I can't see the palce, can I at least see the barracks, and get something to eat?"
"Of course," Kiralo said.
He stumbled home, surrounded by guards but thoroughly drunk, at three in the morning the next day, wishing he'd never taken Kueli's advice.
******
When he awoke, groaning and exhausted and with full memory of what happened, unfortunately, he regretted it even more. Not that he'd done much, besides an unfortunate instance of flirting or two, but because today he had interviews. There were figures trying to muscle and power into the top slots of the army, or asking for commissions, and while there were only so many positions, it was important that the most important positions be filled well, and today, with only a few days until word came of the Prince's inevitable reply...interviews were going to be held, in more depth.
He'd prepared well, and had a list of names that he was interested in, and so all that was left was to talk to them. A long, involved process, and one that took most of the day.
Alright! So, You have a list of choices here. Each general, as with the Imperial Mages, serves as a potential person that can be assigned to positions, etc, etc (Choose 4)
[] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
[] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
[] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
*****
Cart Reroll: 1d100+10=179
[] The Choosing of Generals
Need: Variable, Rolled: 1d100+14=81+20=101
x[] Bows On Horses]
Need: 40, Rolled: 1d100+13=77
[] Marching Drills
Need: 35, Rolled: +15=87
[] The Choosing of Generals
Need: Variable, Rolled: 1d100+14=81+20=101
x[] Bows On Horses]
Need: 40, Rolled: 1d100+13=77
[] Marching Drills
Need: 35, Rolled: +15=87
A/N: Those not chosen won't disappear, but they won't be available for sending wherever you want or using to gain bonuses on certain phases/in certain actions.
Random Member
Gardener of Human Happiness
- Location
- Behind You
Good to have while the fighting is still limited to Csrae and since there are positions in Csirit itself, he won't be entirely useless once we manage to push the Prince back.
Good for logistics over water and against the Prince's cavalry. He might have some value as a symbol, or not.
The Hanin (armored spearmen + crossbowmen) are basically the elite infantry, so having someone who's good at leading those would be good. He's not going to like us, but he hates the Prince more and he's loyal. The fact that he's stubborn might lead to problems on the field if this makes him unwilling to change tactics when that's needed.
Flexible and obedient, so long as his ego doesn't go to his head I guess he's good.
Loyal, brave and good for morale. Not sure if those moods will have any negative effect though.
He would be good to put in charge of logistics or the cannons atleast. We'd have to pick others for on the battlefield though.
A decent leader and his social-fu might smooth over any problems we have on that level. If he indeed manages to rise high, it would be good to get him on our side right now. He only has experience with skirmishes though.
Maybe we should keep in mind what our mages can do and pick generals who are good in other fields? Or pick some generals for synergy with the mages?
As a reminder, the mages we picked (we still don't know what the Sage does exactly):
[] Gen'he: A strange one, he's in his early twenties and while he does know some combat abilities, his main skill is in long-term spirit-work, such as binding spirits to protect an army while it is sleeping, or using spirits to enhance the strength and fortitude of a castle.
[] Hi'sen: A northerner who is said to have a real talent for calling upon spirits to heal injuries. There were rumors, apparently, that he was going to be placed on the staff of, say, a Governor if he successfully completed his challenging duel-lessons as doctor and Mage, but shockingly he has declared that he would rather make his name by working with the army. In his early 20s.
[] Bao'ren: The son of a merchant, Bao'ren was in fact a 'Street Spirit-catcher' as they are called until he was thirteen, and he still specializes in finding spirits even in the wilderness. And along those same lines, he knows what sorts of spirits can be found where, leading to this city-boy having a skillset that might well be perfect for the army on the march.
[] Ji'lae has heard of a distant fugitive of sorts, who, despite their young age, has done much. He's said to be skilled in the Sage styles of the Southlands, and in fact he is said to perhaps be one of them. Ji'lae has been somewhat mum on this person. Except to endorse them as skilled.
[] Jaw-lung: Named for the ancient invasion of Sea-Raiders that his distant ancestor was said to have seen off, he grew interested in the Sea-Raiders magical arts, as well as those of the Anlan, and he has a strange obsession with cannons. Guns. Things that make explosions. On a battlefield, he's the first to go for the big, flashy spirit. Off the battlefield, he's more likely to improve equipment and work on customized weaponry and armament combinations for soldiers.
[] Hi'sen: A northerner who is said to have a real talent for calling upon spirits to heal injuries. There were rumors, apparently, that he was going to be placed on the staff of, say, a Governor if he successfully completed his challenging duel-lessons as doctor and Mage, but shockingly he has declared that he would rather make his name by working with the army. In his early 20s.
[] Bao'ren: The son of a merchant, Bao'ren was in fact a 'Street Spirit-catcher' as they are called until he was thirteen, and he still specializes in finding spirits even in the wilderness. And along those same lines, he knows what sorts of spirits can be found where, leading to this city-boy having a skillset that might well be perfect for the army on the march.
[] Ji'lae has heard of a distant fugitive of sorts, who, despite their young age, has done much. He's said to be skilled in the Sage styles of the Southlands, and in fact he is said to perhaps be one of them. Ji'lae has been somewhat mum on this person. Except to endorse them as skilled.
[] Jaw-lung: Named for the ancient invasion of Sea-Raiders that his distant ancestor was said to have seen off, he grew interested in the Sea-Raiders magical arts, as well as those of the Anlan, and he has a strange obsession with cannons. Guns. Things that make explosions. On a battlefield, he's the first to go for the big, flashy spirit. Off the battlefield, he's more likely to improve equipment and work on customized weaponry and armament combinations for soldiers.
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Of our four picks for Generals, these are pretty likely to take up three of the slots IMO. Jin'ha has excellent knowledge of Csrae so is going to be very helpful when we're fighting here, his bandit experience should mean that attempts at infiltrating units into the province should be harder, and even when the fighting moves on he can be of great use given a good deal of our logistics are liable to be originating from Csrae not to mention anything within the city itself which we could need handling.
Pao has equal amounts of benefits going for him, but in a more active capacity. He shows those nobles of Hari-Os that even during a time of revolt their influence isn't being ignored which could be important, as his deep roots could help us take advantage of Hari-Os's trait of Unsteady Loyalties. He's also good at general logistics, countering the units most likely to harry our logistics chain, and could ease our eventual invasion of Hari-Os.
Bi'ming is just wonderful to have in general, given we're very likely to be in a comparable situation to too many chefs in the kitchen, and he can help us manage the political and social situations that eventually arise from it. His knowledge and skills are especially going to be essential for when we actually start conquering back rebel held territory and managing the transition, which is where Kiralo may need the most help and where the other generals (or mages we choose) are least likely to be able to help.
The fourth choice for me is really up in the air, as I can see the values in many of them. I'm currently leading towards Bao'tsu though so as the Hanin are one of the few professional troops that are all around excellent and make up the second most numbers, even if it may produce difficulties in managing the war.
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
Someone who deeply knows the terrain(especially in the part on our territory, which is the crucial part). Someone to make good decisions in the moment. Someone capable of inspiring the men. Someone capable of both handling new technology and keeping the logistics functional.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
Someone who deeply knows the terrain(especially in the part on our territory, which is the crucial part). Someone to make good decisions in the moment. Someone capable of inspiring the men. Someone capable of both handling new technology and keeping the logistics functional.
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Bakkasama
There is always a greater fool
- Location
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Pronouns
- He/his
[x] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[x] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[x] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
[x] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
Someone who knows the terrain and we can leave to protect the homefront, someone to us as a symbol, can deal with mobile units and might increase speed of our bagae train, somoene who while will dislike us can lead the empire elite units and somone who can both obey and act independly. Also, none of them can outshine us or has loyalties to other people that we know of.
[x] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[x] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
[x] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
Someone who knows the terrain and we can leave to protect the homefront, someone to us as a symbol, can deal with mobile units and might increase speed of our bagae train, somoene who while will dislike us can lead the empire elite units and somone who can both obey and act independly. Also, none of them can outshine us or has loyalties to other people that we know of.
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
My reasons for these three are a couple posts above this one.
[x] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
And I decided on him as of Csirit's professional troops, the Hanin are arguably the best quality and are ranked second in quantity, so someone who has great skill in leading them will be of obvious benefit. I feel the dislike can be managed, particularly as I've also chosen Bi'ming.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
My reasons for these three are a couple posts above this one.
[x] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
And I decided on him as of Csirit's professional troops, the Hanin are arguably the best quality and are ranked second in quantity, so someone who has great skill in leading them will be of obvious benefit. I feel the dislike can be managed, particularly as I've also chosen Bi'ming.
Random Member
Gardener of Human Happiness
- Location
- Behind You
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
Someone who knows the terrain and can be assigned to the city when he's no longer needed, someone who can help with logistics and against cavalry and someone to lead the elite infantry.
For the last pick, I'd take either flexibility or morale.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
Someone who knows the terrain and can be assigned to the city when he's no longer needed, someone who can help with logistics and against cavalry and someone to lead the elite infantry.
For the last pick, I'd take either flexibility or morale.
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- Location
- Germany
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
If we want to win the war, we will likely have to fight in Hari-Os at some point, as it is something of Jinhai's stronghold, if I recall correctly.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
Just seems a good and flexible commander.
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
He sounds capable, and that he is an advisor to Kueng, the highest ranked general, could also be helpful.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
Someone who can take care of logistics.
I am not sold on Bao'tsu, and I am not confident that his prejudices can be managed. If he turned against Jinhai for dealing with the Southlands, can we expect him to remain loyal to an army led by a Southlander who brought in 800 Rassit?
If we want to win the war, we will likely have to fight in Hari-Os at some point, as it is something of Jinhai's stronghold, if I recall correctly.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
Just seems a good and flexible commander.
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
He sounds capable, and that he is an advisor to Kueng, the highest ranked general, could also be helpful.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
Someone who can take care of logistics.
I am not sold on Bao'tsu, and I am not confident that his prejudices can be managed. If he turned against Jinhai for dealing with the Southlands, can we expect him to remain loyal to an army led by a Southlander who brought in 800 Rassit?
keios
very normal
- Location
- US
Good to see Kueli again!
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
Zeitgeist Blue
Currently Made of Metal
- Location
- Manila, Philippines, GMT +8
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
A symbol, morale, logistics, and a face.
I'm still not convinced Jin'ha, the Csrae man, gives as much value as the other choices. He will be able to get us faster out of Csrae and could help around with shaving off a few days on the logistics that pass through, yes, but that's it.
Unless the fighting reaches Csrae, he's just sitting there, and things have gone very wrong indeed if the Prince has reached that deep into our territory. So his specialty would lay dormant until such a time as we are in a very bad situation (only the siege of Csirit the city would be worse).
Admittedly, Jin'ha would have the important job of managing the originpoint of our logistical train and keeping off raiding parties then. But he isn't as good as Niu, the logistics and tech guy, in, you know, logistics. And most everyone has had experience with bandits. Pao is even stated to be helpful against mobile units (ie. bandits).
TL;DR: Jin'ha gives more prominent diminishing returns.
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
A symbol, morale, logistics, and a face.
I'm still not convinced Jin'ha, the Csrae man, gives as much value as the other choices. He will be able to get us faster out of Csrae and could help around with shaving off a few days on the logistics that pass through, yes, but that's it.
Unless the fighting reaches Csrae, he's just sitting there, and things have gone very wrong indeed if the Prince has reached that deep into our territory. So his specialty would lay dormant until such a time as we are in a very bad situation (only the siege of Csirit the city would be worse).
Admittedly, Jin'ha would have the important job of managing the originpoint of our logistical train and keeping off raiding parties then. But he isn't as good as Niu, the logistics and tech guy, in, you know, logistics. And most everyone has had experience with bandits. Pao is even stated to be helpful against mobile units (ie. bandits).
TL;DR: Jin'ha gives more prominent diminishing returns.
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- Location
- ?
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
- Location
- over there
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
[X] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
- Pronouns
- They/Them
Vote closes tomorrow!
Random Member
Gardener of Human Happiness
- Location
- Behind You
Which means it's time for a tally to see who's winning and determine whether we should start another round of strategic voting!
So Pao, Jin'ha, Jun and Niu. I'd rather have Bi'ming (who's only 1 vote behind) than Niu to be honest. We already have a bonus to logistics and Pao can help with that too while one of our mages was specialized in cannons. Sure, Niu would improve upon that but he doesn't bring anything new and I think Bi'ming would. We don't really have anyone to handle the social and politics side of things, except for Kiralo himself and he is a bit limited in that.
Although I'd still rather have Bao'tsu to lead the infantry.
Vote Tally : Original - Fantasy - Behind the Serpent Throne (CK2) | Page 94 | Sufficient Velocity
##### NetTally 1.7.3.2
[x] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
No. of Votes: 9
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
No. of Votes: 7
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
No. of Votes: 6
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
No. of Votes: 6
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
No. of Votes: 5
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
No. of Votes: 4
[x] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
No. of Votes: 3
Total No. of Voters: 10
##### NetTally 1.7.3.2
[x] Pao of Lineage Isanaori: Of an ancient lineage that has deep roots in Hari-Os, he's surprisingly loyal despite the likely betrayal of his province, and this itself might serve as a symbol, on top of his definite skill and understanding of the waterways. He might be able to help with transportation of goods in several cases, and he's certainly going to helpful in dealing with the enemy's more mobile units.
No. of Votes: 9
[X] Jin'ha: The cousin of a prominent local businessman, he has risen rapidly in the esteem of the army in the area. More specifically, he's known for his knowledge of the local terrain of Csrae, and his skill at hunting out bandits. However, he might not be the best choice once the terrain shifts into Irit, but there is plenty to be done in Csirit the city that he could be tasked with.
No. of Votes: 7
[X] Jun: A slayer of bandits and writer of accounts, he seems in some ways a boastful man, clearly overstating his capacity for work. And yet he's also known for his quick, decisive action in tough moments, and for his willingness both to obey the rules of his superiors while understanding that in battle there is often confusion and uncertainty.
No. of Votes: 6
[X] Niu of Lineage Yantae: A soft man, in fact a bureaucrat by profession, but one who despite his clean hands has a family whose military background goes back five generations. He's neat, cultured, and clean, Kuojah's man to the core, but has a definite understanding both of logistics and cannons and the latest technological problems. He would not do well on a battlefield, but generals are needed for far more than that.
No. of Votes: 6
[X] Bi'ming: A solid military man with an impeccable background, more than that he's said to be able to get along with just about everyone, a general whose smooth etiquette and devotion to the arts of peace in general help leaven his knowledge of war (which includes no battles but many skirmishes with bandits) with a general reputation as one of the generals most likely to one day stand at the top of the Council.
No. of Votes: 5
[X] Laquan: Known as a taciturn, miserly man, he's of some importance, as an advisor of Kueng, the General of the Center. Laquan is given to moods, but he's loyal, and more than that, brave almost to a fault, capable of rallying a failing force of men against outsized odds, a talent he's shown at least on the small scale dealing with bandits, and which might or might not come into full bloom on a larger battlefield.
No. of Votes: 4
[x] Bao'tsu: Raised up through his service in the Hanin, this now middle-aged man has great still as a leader of the Hanin, but a notable dislike of Rassit and Southlanders in general. His decision seems in part driven by rumors of Prince Jinhai's actions in the Southland. Other assets: he's said to be stubborn, but also incorruptible.
No. of Votes: 3
Total No. of Voters: 10
Although I'd still rather have Bao'tsu to lead the infantry.
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