To: Count Noctilus @Sinsystems, Representives of the Kingdom of Ferelden @EliudFS1 or @THatWhichWillBe
From: Compte-Electeur de Sylvainia Vlad von Carstein
I have heard from my gracious hosts of the dispute you both hold against each other, and would offer the services of my granddaughter, Baroness Elsa von Carstein to mediate a solution to your dispute.
Private PostScript to Noctilus
My dearest Nyklaus,
It is so good to hear from you again. Your mother and I are staying in Halamshiral at the moment, as we found your tales of an Empire in this new land... Intriguing. Do stop in, it's been ages.
I will not listen to servants of Orlais, not when my nation has been attacked by those undead abominations. They killed my people, and desecrated them. They do not deserve mercy, for they are only monsters that need to be put down.
Serve your Orlesian masters and bother me no more. I have a King and a nation to look after.
From: Steward of Gondor, Denethor II
To: Elves of Rivendale @EliudFS1
We are aware that there have been other people's discovered after the recent shocking tremors. While we know little of them we may be able to gain their help in the war against Sauron. Your people could help us gain that assistance.
The date for negotiations between the city of Marienburg and the Empire of Sigmar had finally arrived. The Directorate had attempted to use the borrowed time they had gained by attempting to hire even the most expensive mercenaries possible from Tilea, but it proved to be too late. After a year of a prolonged siege, the pressure was starting to mount on both sides. From the Imperial side, the Kingdom of Bretonnia under Louen Leoncour was starting to be affected by the state of the siege. Merchants from the noble house of Agnew had petitioned the King for a Brettonian intervention.
Having been assured that Marienburg would continue to operate just as well under the jurisdiction of the Empire as when it was independent, Louen dismissed such concerns, but as the days continued, so did the pressure from the merchant houses in the kingdom.
From the perspective of the Directorate from Marienburg, the situation was more and more desperate. The Dwarf/Saratossa conflict had escalated yet again and without the continuation of trade, their coffers were draining as they tried and failed to gather a force strong enough to repel the Imperials. In the end, they resigned to the situation, as they finally could not stall any longer. They would end up decently content to the terms that were presented to them by Karl Franz. Marienburg will be reintegrated into the Empire. It was proclaimed that "Marienburg and the Wasteland could keep their democratic institutions and the Directorate could keep its power. The Rijkskammer and Burgerhof would remain dominant, but the Staadtholder would formally share power with the Emperor, practically with an Imperial Vicegerent appointed as co-Staadtholder". The last part would not prove to be popular with them, but at this point, they had little choice but to accept the terms.
Vampyric Karma
The newly resurrected Vladimir Von Carstein made his presence known in Sylvannia, with many deserting the Vampiric Lord Manfred for his more charismatic father. Even the Sylvannian army deserted him, as many recognized Vladimir as the true ruler of Sylvannia. Leaving Mannfred to only rely on his undead minions and a few loyal Vampire lords.
But Mannfred had something that Vlad didn't. The fabled Carstein ring, created by Nagash himself. It was with this that he would defeat his vampiric father. But it was here where he met his fate. Just like in the stories, he would be betrayed by one of his lords. Elsa Von Carstein would turn out to be successful in her quest, and with the Carstein ring secured, Vlad would triumph over his treacherous son, capturing him upon the defeat of his armies
With help of the Carstein ring and the Blood Chalice of Bathori Vlad would resurrect his wife Isabella who's remains where kept as a price by Mannfred. She remains slightly insane from the ordeal, all things considered.
The newly reunited couple had decided to take a holiday down south, as they have heard about new continents and Kingdoms that would benefit from their company. Leaving and elevating one of his sons, Frederich von Carstein, as the new Count of Sylvannia.
Bombard with Extreme Prejudice
The mighty navy of the dwarf-hold of Barak Var launched another attack upon the Pirates of Sartossa. The Pirates regrouped and hired even more ships called in more favors from everywhere they could. But this time, they would be facing the full might of the Dwarven fleet.
Ironclads and Gyrocopters stayed in formation as they rained hell upon the many pirate ships. By the time the smoke cleared and the sun had risen, the fleet of Barak Var would emerge victorious, after suffering heavy casualties. The pirates strength in this side of the world has been broken. It would be a long time before it recovers to something resembling what it once was.
The Island of Sartossa itself was under siege for a time. Until the armies of the Dwarves arrived. By the time the battle was over, it would seem that only rubble remained. To capture an island such as this required an iron will and heavy investment. This is the beginning of a new era of change for the region.
The Drowned and the Cursed
An Ironborn fleet under the exiled command of Dagrun Greyjoy has explored past the sudden jungle of Essos. After many long months, the Ironborn fleet has made sail and landed among the Border Princes after a tiring journey. Which has suddenly gained the reputation of a center of the arts and culture spearheaded by the famous Poet Prince, Gashnag the Black. (Diplomacy unlocked between Westeros and Gashnag the Black/Empire)
Cultured Explorers Seek Fine Wine
An High Elvish fleet from Ulthuan has made landfall among the lands of Dorwinion. After pleasantries were exchanged, both factions realized they stood to gain a lot from each other. (Diplomacy between High Elves of Ulthuan and Dorwinion Unlocked)
Alith Anar; Elivish Shadow Prince or the Spirit of Sarnor?
Alith Anar continues to be an incredible nuisance to Malekith. Not even in the lands of Essos is he freed from his raids. The lost people of Sarnor have even gotten into their heads that he is an ancient spirit from the fallen kingdom of Sarnor. Who comes back from the dead to deliver them from evil. Be them Dothraki or Dark Elf.
Vampires Go Home!
The Lizardmen begin the complete eradication of Vampires from Lustria. With giant dinosaurs doing coordinated attacks with precision not seen in living memory. There wasn't much stopping them from removing them from the continent. Specially when said lizards knew the lore of light like the back of their hand.
However, this has caused the displacement of a number of Vampires who suddenly call the sea their home. This is not good news for countries with coastal provinces, many are told. Specially when they are under the command of a vampire called Luthor Harkon.
Middenheim under Attack
Skaven have risen to challenge the force of the Empire. Taking advantage of the lack of men currently stationed at Middenheim, the Skaven took advantage. Some Skaven have even breached the defenses of the city through tunnels and walls. A clear attempt of the Under Empire to take over the city. The four great Causeways that lead into the city are still intact, but are enchanted to collapse should the worst fall. Rats are all over the place and Middenheim calls for aid, as the defenders attempt to buy enough time for an Imperial response and the return of its army.
Queek Queek (Head?) Taker of the Karak Peaks
Queek Headtaker has won the war for the dwarven stronghold of Karak Peaks for Clan Mors. This is an ill omen of Skaven aggression. Only time will tell what is next in stock for the enemies of Clan Mors and their future within Skaven society, as more and more skaven look on with envious eyes.
From Lurog gro-Shurkul, Third Captain of the House of Steel and Emissary of the Patriarch of the Dreadhorn Clan and Horn Lord, Domihaus the Bloody-Horned
To the Men of Akavir @EliudFS1 & @Altered
On behalf of Domihaus the Bloody-Horned, Horn Lord of the Minotaurs, Patriarch of the Dreadhorn Clan, Man-Bane, Blood of Alessia, Champion of Kyne, the Winged Lord, King of the Ashes, and Fear of Men and Mer, I bid you greetings, Men of Akavir.
Know that we have come to your shores in pursuit of Kyne, Mother of Morihaus-Breath-Of-Kyne, Widow of Shor, Goddess of the Heavens, the Winds, the Elements, and the Spirits of the Air. Her passing has been marked in the dreams of those favoured by her, by the shamans who have witnessed her cross the Sea of Ghosts and here, into Akavir.
Though you have warred upon Tamriel twice in the past, once as the Tsaeci, who knelt to Reman the Worldly God, and the other as the Snow Demons, who were vanquished by the Half King and the Pretenders, it is not the intent of the Horn Lord to do battle with you. His quest is not one of vengeance but of faith, for Domihaus the Bloody-Horned has seen that Kyne leads him not towards battle but to a home for the Dreadhorn Clan. Should you not bar his path, nor take up arms against him, know that he shall be a friend unto you, one as firm as Morihaus-Breath-Of-Kyne was to Saint Alessia.
But should you seek to bar his path and deny the Dreadhorn Clan the way to Kyne, then you would do well to heed the lessons of the Ayleids and Umaril, whose hubris saw their undoing at the hands of the Minotaur and their race brought near to extinction for the sin of opposing those in whom the Aedra place their favour.
Boromir, under the command of Denethor, his father and regent of the Kingdom of Gondor, lead the armies of Gondor against the raiders of Harada who were raiding the southern lads of Gondor a year prior, and continued to do so today. Boromir executed a well planned attack against the raiders and managed to counter their tactics expertly, making great use of the forces of Gondor. That is until they retreated into territory that benefited them more to their way of waging war, in which Boromir sounded the order to stop after sustaining moderate casualties.
It was at night when they struck. The Nazgul, led by the Witch King of Angmar, did a strategic attack upon the generals and leadership of Gondor. Captain and Officer lay dead from the Nazgul blade, until only Boromir remained. Facing the Witch King in single combat, Bormoir led a valiant defense until the Witch king disarmed him with his Morgul knife. All looked over until Boromir improvised a weapon with a piece of burning firewood, in which he was able to fend of the Witch King and the rest of the Nazgul, that have not yet reached their full strength.
But it was the Witch King that had the last laugh, as he stabbed Boromir with his Morgul knife, just before his withdrawal, heavily wounded. Incapacitating Boromir and leaving him for dead, with a high chance of becoming a Wraith himself, unless extreme measures are taken. It might not be long before Boromir serves a different master, and a different lord than his father.
Jungle, in Middle Earth? It's more rare than you think.
The Lizardmen that had arrived in Middle Earth sent scouts all over the place in search for their Archenemy. They heard some old tales of a Dark Lord Sauron in the Land of Mordor, but that didn't sound right to them, so they continued to search. No immediate sign of demons are found in their year of searching.
When Kroq-Gar attempted to junglefy the lands of Middle Earth, he would run into a problem. For some reason, the lands of Middle Earth did not respond to jungyfication as well in Middle Earth as it did in other continents. It was as if the very land was resisting attempts to terraform the land. For that reason, only a very limited amount of area would spring up as a Jungle, and even then it would require constant maintenance to keep it that way. It was like something was keeping the land the way it is, and was extremely resistant to change. They would also find the use of the Geomantic Web to be severely limited in this continent.
Rohan is fine, really, it's fine
Theodred has been assigned more and more dangerous missions. New guards are given command to provide them plenty of experience that will help them invest in a better more experienced future. Many believe that this is the natural way of progression, and see this as Theodred rising to the challenge of Kingship, as his father's health deteriorates.
Gondor Strikes Back
Gondor repels back the Corsairs of Umbar, as they gain control of the sea back. They also contact Westeros, and their remaining allies in Rohan, the Elves, and the Dwarves of Erebor.
And so you finally show your true colors, oath breaker. The Dominion did not seek war with your County, I was willing to give you the benefit of the doubt but with your pitiful fleet striking with the Pact against the Dominion. You have broken the Pact of non aggression and neutrality for the last time.
May the Gods have mercy on you Oathbreaker, for i shall have none.
Consider this a formal declaration of war.
Ayrenn Arana Aldmeri, Queen of Alinor,
High Queen of Summerset and Queen of the Aldmeri Dominion
To: The Archon of Tevinter @Bandeirante
From: Compte-Electeur de Sylvainia Vlad von Carstein
Secret
Good Evening. I understand your nation is considered the great rival to Orlais. We should talk. If you accept, I shall dispatch an ambassador who can enlighten you about the nature of the recent celestial phenomena and how they pertain to you.
Secret
You claim much and your credentials are uncertain. But the Archon is in a good mood. Move quick enough and you may be able to watch his Triumph in Minrathous.
To: Dawi Zharr @Ironanvil1
From: Tevinter Imperium
Secret
Your skill in magic and at arms is worthy of praise and in no small part thanks to you Seheron is back where it belongs. But as one fire is extinguished another one rises.
We wish to increase the volume of our weapon imports. And request any information you may have on these "Greenskins" infesting the Arlathan forest.
Maps of your own home "world" would also be appreciated for unrelated reasons.
We come on behalf of the Dawi Zharr, the "Dwarfs of Fire" from the distant northeast. Powerful new arrivals, they express interest in sending envoys to Orzammar to meet and learn more about your realm and peoples.
Though our relationship with them isn't nearly as long and fruitful as the one with the great city of Orzammar, we can attest that so far they have given us no cause to doubt their good intentions.
The situation in Arlathan is unacceptable. And now that the Legions are done with Seheron we intend to move into the area and deal with the problem.
Your help would be appreciated. Not only your armies and fleets but your extensive network of contacts. The Dalish, for example, would be loath to work with us, and yet it seems we will need to make use of them for this coming campaign. That is to say nothing of mercenaries and other assets that you can arrange.
Speaking of which, we would like to start coordinating naval patrols. Given our recent experiences in Seheron, we expect more foreign threats to show up in Thedas.
From: Denethor II, Steward of Gondor
To: The King of the men of Westeros @ByzantineCaesar
I bring greetings from the Kingdom of Gondor. We have heard word of your mighty kingdom through the dwarves of our land. We wish we came with simple greetings and well wishes but we come asking for a great favor. Our lands are under assault by the forces of Sauron, the Dark Lord and his forces of orcs. What he seeks is total world domination through the use of dark magic. We seek assistance in this war as all of mankind is threatened. They fly on great winged beasts and have all manner of dark creatures at their disposal. I have enclosed with this envoy a copy of the histories of Gondor so your scholars can learn of our enemy and a corpse of the enemy we fight. My son has recently been greatly wounded by one of these winged riders.
*Body of an orc is brought alongside as well as copies of histories of Gondor relating to Sauron*
I bring greetings from the Kingdom of Gondor. We have heard word of your mighty kingdom through the dwarves of our land. We wish we came with simple greetings and well wishes but we come asking for a great favor. Our lands are under assault by the armies of Sauron, the Dark Lord and his forces of orcs. What he seeks is total world domination through the use of dark magic. They fly on great beasts and have all manner of dark creatures at their disposal. We are happy to offer trade concessions as well as payment should that be required.
From: Denethor II, Steward of Gondor
To: Rivendell @EliudFS1
My son Boromir has been wounded by a Morgul blade. I beg of you that you help us save his life. Our men are taking him back to our lands but we must save his life. I will not lose my son to the monster who tried to murder him.
And so you finally show your true colors, oath breaker. The Dominion did not seek war with your County, I was willing to give you the benefit of the doubt but with your pitiful fleet striking with the Pact against the Dominion. You have broken the Pact of non aggression and neutrality for the last time.
May the Gods have mercy on you Oathbreaker, for i shall have none.
Consider this a formal declaration of war.
Ayrenn Arana Aldmeri, Queen of Alinor,
High Queen of Summerset and Queen of the Aldmeri Dominion
To Teclis of the foreign expedition @Dovahsith : I would like to meet with you and discuss magical matters , as well as transmitting to you a request from the Grey Wardens
A meeting is acceptable and I will listen to what the Grey Warden Order would request of me, though I would ask my own questions, if you would indulge a curious scholar.
The stranger emerged from the foggy marshes that engulfed Braavos, the city perpetually sinking into them. A traveler dressed like a king wrought from shadow and silver. To look upon him was as if to see a beam of moonlight transfixed for an instant, as though he would vanish if you but blinked. Perhaps he would if he chose to...
Yet, untouched by perhaps Valyria's bastard daughter's first defense, with an expression uncaring of its others, Alith Anar left his message in the atrium of the Sea Lord's Palace, before departing without trace nor word.
Meet me in the place where gods are buried, lest tyrants make slaves of us all upon dragonback. @EliudFS1
Birds of any number of species seem to find there way into the camps of the Dalish Clans dotting Thedas, each with a small, elegantly written message strapped to their leg. Observing the recipient with eyes far too filled with intelligence, they chirp and leave upon their messages delivery.
I am known by many names and titles across the lands I have traveled.
But here, I am merely Teclis and I find myself a stranger to those I would wish to call my people.
I humbly request a conclave of the People, so that you might come as a united front in times of turmoil and I learn of you, should it be decided we are kin,
Or treat with you as an Ambassador and an equal if not. @EliudFS1
The skink narrowed its eyes as their guide scurried off to report to his king, leaving them alone with this "inn" being stared by the passerbys.
No, that wouldn't do at all.
Their guide returned only to find their visitors missing, with the only traces of their presence the whispering of the travelers on the road and a stone tablet deposited in the care of the bewildered innkeeper.
The guide found himself castigated by his king not too long afterwards, though because King Brand was, all in all, a decent ruler, it simply meant that Thimbul found himself back in his parents' toy shop. Of course, he quickly became infamous for being the officer that got chased through all of Dale's toy market by his irate mother...
King Brand, King Dáin and their councils debated sending a proper envoy to the Lizardmen, but at the end decided it was, at the time, pointless. The Dwarven troops reported that a small jungle surrounded the pyramid, but nothing else happened; so they were rotated away and Men - more amenable to forests - brought in their stead.
King under the Mountain Dain II Ironfoot, Lord of the Iron Hills (@Desdendelle )
I write to you from the saddle, fighting against the enemy that has but recently invaded both our lands. There is much to thank you for, and the news of your great and valiant defense did greatly embolden the men of Rohan. All in our lands speak of the courage and honor of the Kingdom under the Mountain, and of the ability with axe and shield of Durin's Folk. I do not doubt that this much you already know, and have been well informed of our campaigns by King Théoden the Horseman, long may he yet live. The noble battle on the banks of the Celdiun saved Rohan from being flanked, and our and my gratitude will be yours for as long as Rohan lives on; none shall speak ill of Durin's Folk in our ancestral lands. Let the friendship between the Kingdom under the Mountain and the Kingdom of Rohan be everlasting.
My regards, your friend and ally,
Théodred
Prince of Rohan of the House of Eorl, Marshal of the Mark
Kingdom of Gondor
Courtyard overlooking Minas Tirith
Denethor II, Steward of Gondor looked upon the White Tree of Gondor, feeling the cool rushing air pass over him. At this highest level of the city there wasn't much company besides the soldiers and advisers. When they had told him of great tremors that shook the entire foundation of the world he had simply asked what other effort by Sauron it could be to undermine Gondor. After many months some had begun to whisper about new lands that lay beyond the borders of Middle Earth. Though the elves jealously guarded that information Denethor had hoped to gain new support. Truth be told he had become so excited at the prospect of new allies in the conflict against the Dark Lord that he'd nearly forgotten himself.
He'd been so full of hope, seemingly lost from his world that he had behaved like a beggar asking for scraps off the table rather than the Steward of Gondor. He had chastised himself for that and would ensure that any future diplomacy knew that he was the a man to be respected. Then the news of his son Boromir had reached him. A rider had delivered the message that his son had been attacked with a cursed morgul blade. He had told him of Boromir's great victory against the corsairs and even his duel with the Witch King. Boromir was being brought north as quickly as possible.
Denethor fell into despair at his son's condition. He had even pleaded to the elves of Rivendell for aid. He would not allow the dark lord to claim his son.
While he had sat in the Steward's chair lamenting the health of his son aids brought word that they had encountered some of the new people in the world. Tales of lizardmen came from the north and of another great Kingdom, riding great winged beasts, not dissimilar from the ones that the wraiths rode. However these kings were not dark and twisted.
The world was revealing so many things to Denethor that he did not know how to comprehend it. He'd left the Steward's chair and walked out to the courtyard. That had been two hours ago. He was standing, watching the White Tree hoping for some insight into what the world wanted with him. Was he being rewarded or punished for his years of service? Was it good fortune or yet another threat?
He didn't know but his will was strong and he would see Gondor's survival in this war. The White Tree would stand triumphant and it would be he, Denethor that would see Sauron's destruction.
Once the Kings of the Arbor, House Redwyne's illustrious past has given way a less acclaimed present. Like the many powerful Houses of the Reach, House Redwyne is said to be descended from the legendary Garth Greenhand, though they are through his younger son Gilbert of the Vines who would go on to teach the secrets of wine-making to his own descendants. When the Andals invaded millennia ago, House Redwyne and House Hightower worked together to hold back those mighty warriors with their own famed fleets. And before Aegon Targaryen began his conquest, House Redwyne is said to have hosted the proud Valyrian King on their isle.
When the last King of the Arbor was lost at sea, House Redwyne returned to the fold of the Gardeners and when King Aegon Targaryen ended the fabled line, the proud Lord Redwyne found himself subservient to an up-jumped steward known as Tyrell like the rest of the Reach. Now the Year is 96 AC and many events have come to pass, from Lord Manfryd Redwyne serving as the Master of Ships of under King Jaerhaerys to Ryam Redwyne becoming a member of the Kingsguard and eventually known as the most talented Knight of his generation.
The future has yet to happen, but with their mighty fleet often considered the finest in Westeros alongside the location of the Arbor, the fortunes of House Redwyne will not be brought to ruin. Across the Kingdom of Westeros, Manfryd and Ryam have ensured the prominence of the Redwyne name while the other members of the House tend to their duties and obligations
Turn 1 (Year 97 AC)
The Year is 97 AC and a great mystery has occurred. The world has been utterly changed and winter forcibly enacted upon the people of Westeros. Unprepared, underequipped many suffered from such an event. Over the course of the year House Redwyne prospered, the ever-present Summer of the Reach while suitably quelled still remained and for the Arbor, it was simply business as usual.
Paying homage to the past and the fortune of Corlys Velaryon, House Redwyne sought to make a grand trading voyage - one of unparalleled numbers and success. But it was for naught, whatever change that had been brought about also disrupted the geography of the world itself. Gone was Yi-Ti, gone was Leng, those far-off places mentioned only through rumors and such. Replacing them was the grand unknown and rumors, of new lands and monsters. In the harbors of the land claimed by Quarth the grand trading voyage of House Redwyne mixed with the Houses Hightower and Tarth sit contemplating what shall be done. The people of Quarth speak in whispers of monsters being sighted within their lands, fighting Dothraki and even their own scouts occasionally. Further to the West lies a winter hell-scape and land, but are the men of Westeros - of the Arbor willing to approach something that could be their ruin?
Closer to home House Redwyne took inspiration from Alys Whitehill better known as Elissa Farman and sought out the isles known as the Targaryen Islands. Sending out a small expedition they made preparations for establishing a military encampment and outpost upon the land, ensuring that these new islands would be their next leap forward for any expeditions and allow them to build up yet another branch of House Redwyne and the might of the Arbor.
At home much would be done, much had to be done. With a resurgent Ironborn fear would drive many actions for the various houses of Westeros. None more then House Redwyne who like the Riverlands and the Shield Islands had once felt the painful rule of those dreadful scum. Seeking to secure their shores, their land, and their lives House Redwyne would invest their power, time, and money into reform of the island's defenses. The island would be safe from harm, from invasion. It's own Watch for the towns and harbors expanded and given greater equipment to achieve their task. It was nothing to note for the rest of the world, but it was something visitors of the Arbor would see as they bore witness to the might of House Redwyne sunk into such material things.
Turn 2 (Year 98 AC)
It has been two years since Winter has fallen upon the Kingdom of Westeros, two years of seven moons, of whispered tells of horror from the North, of reports giving tale of the strange going ons of the world from Kingslanding. Three new lands have been discovered. To the far-east where Yi-Ti once laid a hellish landscape that would be known as Lustria when the Natives finally revealed themselves in such a matter that Essos itself would be shocked. To the far West rests a land known as Tamriel, with who Westeros only knows of the Ebonheart Pact. Upon the Summer Islands, Corlys Velaryon and his wife discovered the people of a Kingdom known as Lindon. Where once the world was mysterious and unknown, it seemingly grows smaller and bigger with the introductions of such new folk. Magic lives on to the West and East, but the people of Westeros have none to show - leaving House Redwyne questioning why this is.
When House Redwyne went West in the year 97 AC, they did not expect to discover a new race of beings who could walk like men, talk like men, or overpower men much less demonstrate magic that left men in awe, but they did. The trading voyage that had been assembled found not Yi-Ti, but water thus they retreated to Qarth, however, there they were greeted to rumors of a new landmass and strange reptilian beasts. Unwilling to lose both prestige and gold, Ser Donnel Redwyne spun a tale and with his silver-tongue convinced the members of House Hightower and House Tarth to remain their course as they sent out explorers and messengers to the new land intent upon seeking out the people that called it home.
When they returned it was too great confusion amongst those in the fleet for they came back with no memories of what had happened beyond traveling through the deadly jungle that covered the land. Some whispered of witchcraft and other dark magic, others denied it - the answers came when one day the gates of the Free City Qarth were torn open by magical force of reptilian creatures calling themselves Children of the Old Gods. They sought out Donnel Redwyne and had cooler heads not managed to prevail, perhaps war might have begun.
When the Redwyne Knight showed up, conversation was struck and though the Children as Redwyne called them at the time presented a strong yet barbaric image, peace would be found. The proud and obviously diverse culture before him sought to entreat with the men of Westeros and Essos bringing before him 'tribute' as they called it - returning tit for tat as Redwyne had ordered gifts be sent to them, alongside the messengers. So, the talks commenced as the Lizardmen presented their tribute.
Over the course of 97 AC, House Lannister sent out an expedition intent upon traveling across the Sunset Sea, eager to see if the great change the World had undergone truly effected everything. On their way West they stumbled upon another voyage, whose purpose was the same as theirs. They would speak, greeting each other and learning of the other's respective homelands before finally returning from whence they came, bringing news that the Sunset Sea was no longer one in which sailors might die trying to cross.
Eager to meet these new people and hoping to get the jump on the Lannisters, alongside the Sea Snake, Corlys Velaryon - Lord Robert Redwyne sent forth his fastest ship as a messenger, loaded with gifts for these foreign people. Though the messenger would learn that these foreigners were no practitioners of the Seven, Robert did not hold that against them. When he learned that they too enjoyed the abominable practice of slavery the Redwyne Lord did not allow anger to override his common sense. However, years later in his Journal his sons and grandsons would find this statement:
"I consider involuntary slavery a never-failing fountain of the grossest immorality, and one of the deepest sources of human misery; it hangs like the mantle of night over our world, and shrouds its rising glories. I sincerely pity the man who tinges his hand in the unhallowed thing that is fraught with the tears, and sweat, and groans, and blood of hapless millions of innocent, unoffending people…"1
Still, the Lord of the Arbor sought to trade with the Ebonheart Pact as his ancestors had continued trade with the slavers of Essos despite their personal distaste of such sin.
The Ebonheart Pact would be pleased by his courteous letter and fine gifts, sending back to him his own messenger and one of theirs, laden with gifts of their land for him. New alcohol, new silk and metalworkings, and most of all an Enchanted Blade that was midnight black, and made of Ebony. Trapped Volcanic Ash and more went into this blade, making it quite unbreakable and comparable to the Valyrian Steel of Westeros. Seeing such thing as something important and yet another thing to differentiate his house from those of Westeros, Robert put it to use by allowing Gyles Redwyne the Redwyne Knight to possess it.
Talks would continue on, with both sides agreeing to respect the other's law and each walking away amiable about the entire thing. And so, until Redwyne sent his massive trading voyage to the lands of Tamriel, that was all that would be discussed between the two.
1 = This is taken from John Rankin an American Abolitionist, specifically from his Article in the Castigator a Newspaper in Ohio during his time
While House Redwyne sailed East and the Lannisters went West, Corlys Velaryon traveled South to the Summer Islands. Though the islands were often visited by Merchants of Westeros, not much was truthfully known of them. Still, nothing more would be discovered for yet another new group of people would be discovered, unknowingly and unintentionally by the Sea Snake. He sought to see the splendor and enjoy the pleasures of the Summer Islands, but in the end, he discovered explorers of Lindon.
Not much is known of what went down between the two groups, but later on, in the year of 98 AC House Redwyne would send a messenger, following the maps gifted to Velaryon and shared with the King in Kingslanding to the land of Lindon. There they saw the beautiful beings that Corlys had come across. Though flustered and entranced by the beauty before them, the messengers did their tasks and fulfilled the orders entrusted to them. The Elves of Lindon as they called themselves while not needing the gifts provided, accepted them gladly - welcoming the messengers into their hearths and domiciles. Pleased at the peace and the prosperity sought, they returned the message promising to facilitate trade and relations between House Redwyne and the rest of the entities in their land that would be open to trade.
While the Arbor extended out its hands in greeting of the strange new folk of the mysterious lands uncovered, it did not distract itself from tasks both at home an abroad. Having seen the resurgence of the Ironborn, House Redwyne knew that the foul, scum hailing from the Iron Isles sought to once again forge their crown amidst the blood of the innocent and righteous. Recognizing the danger that they presented the premier naval power of Westeros did its due diligence and turned their attention to the navy they so loved and professed pride for. The Redwyne Fleet was truly one of admiration but in the eyes of Lord Robert, it needed to be expanded. So they reached out to the various Houses of the Reach and the Stormlands, seeking trade deals that were quite in their favor and took the lumber gained and had their shipwrights focus on turning the fine timber into the warships and mercantile vessels they were renown for. Allowing the Ironborn the upper hand here was not something House Redwyne would do, not now - not ever.
While not exactly at home, the Targaryen Isles of which Lord Redwyne and his House had proclaimed the Warden of were none-the-less quite close. Reminiscent of last year, the Redwyne's continued their focus upon the strange isles - developing their encampment further, strengthening its defenses and capability to hold the men. Meanwhile, they sent out patrols to investigate and map out the islands, uncovering both its geography for the map-makers as well as the unique fauna of the isles. More work was put in and the beachhead they had established would certainly ensure that any further expeditions sent from past this location would have a safe base - a haven of sorts that would allow them to get their bearings.
The talks with the people of the Ebonheart Pact had been one peace and prosperity, the language of trade and House Redwyne certainly followed up on such things. They were distraught and lamented the sin the Ebonheart Pact indulged in, allowing Slavery to thrive within its lands, but ultimately they handled it much as they did with Essos - by obeying the laws and silently complaining. The trip, however, served to increase House Redwyne's fortunes as they traded goods exotic and foreign to the people of the Ebonheart Pact for items they, themselves found foreign and exotic. While the traders and merchants met for this sake, Gyles Redwyne sought out those who were knowledgeable of the Ebony Blades and learned what he could regarding such weapons. The Knight of the Arbor then investigated further and found Ebony Plate Armor, which he paid a fine price for - allowing the tourney knight to be armed with the enchanted plate armor and sword, hoping it would grant him survivability and further danger to his enemies.
Trade was not all House Redwyne looked for amongst these new people, for they had heard the tales of Magic in this strange land. Eager to pursue it and learn, the scion of House Redwyne obeyed his father's orders and met with what could have been charlatans. Thankfully his beliefs were misguided, or perhaps it was most unfortunate they were... only time can tell. The Mages of this land proved to be true in their word that they knew magic and Gyles offered them the deal that his father had ordered, securing not one or two, but five Mages. A far cry smaller then what his father likely hoped for, but something that was a great deal bigger than the Lannisters and the rest of Westeros. These Mages would soon find themselves teaching trusted men of Westeros and enchanting armor and weapon for House Redwyne soon enough.
But all was not well for House Redwyne. The trading fleet that had gone off under the command of Ser Donnel and Ser Tylan had returned, laden with good and gifts, but also damaged and wounded. The fleet had done its part and traveled the land but had also gone above the call of duty and valor in discovering not only a new land but new people while establishing ties with them. But of course, on the return voyage, the Ironborn had ruined everything and attacked the grand fleet, stealing away with some of the supplies and the diplomat of the foreign race that House Redwyne had discovered. Though the blame was shifted to the Dornish by the Iron Isles, House Redwyne knew the truth and the vaunted House that had stood for millennia would ensure that the cowardly sea-dogs of those rocky shores drowned for good.
Though the year was eventful and much had happened, more came for just when all thought it was done - a new group of people had shot past the Arbor and the Targaryen Isles arriving off the coast of Oldtown and the mainland Reach itself. The ships themselves reminded all who saw them of the dastardly scourge of the sea, known as Ironborne and did not engender good feelings when first sighted, but House Hightower was not one of hasty nature and did not attack immediately. Rather they sent word to House Redwyne, aware of the experience that the House had gained with their expeditions sent and meetings they'd attended, hoping their kin would aid them in facilitating talks with this new bunch. So, the foreign fleet waited while diplomats were sent and people waited with bated breaths for peace to prevail or blood to be shed.
Across the sea, on the famed continent of Essos, the embassy House Redwyne had left at Qarth to keep relations and talks with the Lizardmen of Lustria up found itself visited by a new foreign people, further complicating the plans of the Redwyne's and yet again accelerating the frenzy the House would push itself into as they strove to handle all of the events popping up on their plate. These new folks came bearing word and the loyalty of new land, of a new ruler who called themselves the Emperor of the Empire. No other word had been had but that, and many hoped peace was what they came looking for - because war was not something anyone wanted at this point, not with the hell that the North East side of Essos was turning into.
Family Tree of House Redwyne:
Lord Manfryd Redwyne* (20 AC - 89 AC) - The father of Robert Redwyne, Rickard Redwyne, and Ryam Redwyne. Former Master of Ships and Lord of the Arbor, now resting in House Redwyne's crypts.
Lady Alysanne Redwyne nee Hightower (22 AC - 92 AC) - A former Hightower lady, who was betrothed to Manfryd at age 16, with her husband dead she joined him shortly after grief-stricken and heartbroken.
Lord Robert Redwyne** (38 AC - present-day) - The current Lord of the Arbor and Admiral of the Redwyne Fleet. An old Knight, who has turned away from his glory days and has taken to ensuring House Redwyne's continued prominence and prosperity.
Lady Jeyne Redwyne nee Grimm (41 AC - present-day) - The wife of Robert, and the mother of three children. A daughter of the Shield Islands, her marriage to Robert would bind the Arbor and the Shields closer together.
Ser Desmond Redwyne*** (58 AC - present-day) - Yet another Arbor Knight, this Redwyne though capable of fighting is far more concerned with the monetary matters and administrative proceedings of the Arbor Isles
Lady Erayna Redwyne nee Goldwyne (60 AC - present-day) - A daughter of the cadet branch of the Redwynes, her marriage to Desmond was one of love and continued support of their own vassals.
Ser Donnel Redwyne**** (70 AC - present-day) Like his father and grandfather, Donnel is an Arbor Knight but unlike them young Donnel has taken to traveling through Essos and negotiating various deals with the Essossian Merchants regarding the various prices for the Arbor wine and more.
Horas Redwyne**** (80 AC - present-day) - The youngest son of Ser Desmond, Horas has taken to martial pursuits like his Uncle Gyles, serving as the Redwyne Knights squire as he travels throughout the Reach he's taken part in a great many tourneys and borne witness to many bandit hunts.
Ser Gyles Redwyne*** (59 AC - present-day) - A true Arbor Knight, Gyles travels through the Reach attending Tourneys and hunting bandits abound, martial pursuits are all he seeks.
Lady Celesse Redwyne***(62 AC - present-day) - A proud daughter of House Redwyne, Celesse took to her lady duties like a duck to water. Now she rests as the wife of Lord Hewett once more ensuring the Shield Islands and the Arbor alliance would stand.
Ser Rickard Redwyne** (39 AC-present-day) The often overlooked middle-child of his generations Redwyne children, the Knight who was knighted by King Jaehaerys and in turn knighted Prince Baelon, Ser Rickard has turned his attention to the ships his own family was famed for. With the knowledge of navies and war at sea, Rickard would serve as a capable Admiral for his house.
Lady Elenai Redwyne nee Tarth (42 AC - present-day) - Serving to foster ties outside of the Reach with yet another naval power and important port within the Stormlands, Elenai and Rickard were wed.
Ser Tylan Redwyne*** (72 AC - present-day) The first child of Rickard and Elenai, Tylan has earned his spurs not in the Arbor but with his relatives upon the isle of Tarth. Like his father, Tylan has taken to naval pursuits and is quite the adept sailor often sailing with the Tarth fleet in its pursuit of pirates and protecting their merchant ships.
Acolyte Meylen Redwyne*** (73 AC - present-day) The second-born, Meylen was quite academically gifted and focused on learning. When the time came he joined
Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, Ser Ryam Redwyne** (40 AC - present-day) - The most famed Knight of his generation, now serving as the King's Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. Loyalty and vows are strongly upheld by him, chivalry is what he breathes. Just don't let him rule the realm, politics and administration aren't his strong suit. One might say he'd make for the worst of Hands.
Ties: House Redwyne count themselves as some of the chief Bannerman of House Tyrell, and as a loyal vassal of the Iron Throne. They currently are closely entwined with Hightower and the Shield Islands alongside an alliance of sorts to Tarth.
Breakdown of Ties:
Bannerman of House Tyrell
Vassal of the Targaryens
Economic, Marriage Alliance - Family with House Hightower
Economic, Marriage, and Military Pact - Family with House Grimm and Hewett of the Shield Isles
Economic, Marriage Alliance - House Tarth
Trade Agreement with Ebonheart Pact
Trade with the Kingdom of Lindon^
Trade Agreement with Lizardmen of Lustria*
^Facilitating Relationships between House Redwyne and the rest of Middle Earth
*One-off deal for knowledge and such
THE VALE OF DORWINION
3016, Third Age (Turn Three)
An Introduction to Dorwinion
Dorwinion is the land of wine, though it would be fairer to say that we simply till the earth with greater skill than other wine-makers - a legacy of quietly passed down legends of long ago, if to be believed - a tale of 'woods that oft moved' and 'spoke in lengthy wheezes of the secrets of the earth'. That we had friendship with these creatures, and our farmers learned much in their tutelage from these Elder wonders. That they taught us patiently in their laborious, softly-spoken way. Whatever the truth of these matters, we now trade the bounty of our vines in a web of wealth widely spun, sending much of it north up the River Running - the Celduin to our elven friends. North to Esgaroth, Dale, Erebor, and the fairest halls of all, in Eryn Galen.
So trade is our essence, then. Wines that make even the Elves feel what mortals feel only too often; that is our secret. King Thranduil and his line in Eryn Galen is our friend and ally, and there are those among the fairer race that live among us in honor. They live among us perhaps not just for our wines - for we have a heritage that traces through the tangled lines of history. Ephedrim they called us, the Eldar of old, and we were here before the Edain gathered the rewards for their heroism in Beleriand; but as not all Elves went West, neither did the men we were all go West. We were the precursors of the House of Hador, later known so well for their tragic heroes rather than their wondrous wines. Which, I wonder, is the greater in its lasting?
There is irony sunk deep within this, for we are as noble as we have ever been, have endured wars between the Dúnedain and the tribes of the South and vicious warriors of the East. An uneasy peace, never acknowledged, lies between us and the inhabitants of vast Rhûn. We even till our lands using their Kine, those great white oxen that dwell on the shores of the inland sea. These are the very same King Vorondil hunted and slew to make the great Horn of Gondor - but there is no friendship with their masters to be found. Nor will there ever be, and we see much unrest along the shores of the Inner Sea.
We fight when it is needed, yet are not warlike in manner. But there is a coming storm - movement in the East, vast herds and many wains moving about the Sea of Rhûn; shadows gather about the mountains of Mordor, and glints of flame and lightning gutter feebly in our eyes. We are distant from whatever evils must transpire therein, but to the folk of Gondor, the tragic remnants of the Edain bloodlines, it must be enough to make them cower in the face of the storm, like a crack in a war-smith's anvil. The Elves of Dorwinion have begun to teach their ways of war - dwarven-made weapons flow down the River Running. Men are seen with swords in the streets. When called to war, we will not side in any way other than we have in the past; we are the Ephedrim, as all good men were before Beleriand, and we will fight for our friends; Elves, Dwarves, and Men.
Caras Sant, the Garden City - Home of the Vintner Court and Capital of Dorwinion
Important Figures in the Vale of Dorwinion
Vine-Regent Hawin, Ruler of the Vale, Head of the Vintner Court
Nurwé, Edhil (Elven) High Councillor
Vine-Lord Swain, Named successor to the Vintner Court
Forthwin, Grand Master of Ströndost
Thorald, Head of the Guild of Vintners
Diplomatic Treaties
Trade Relations and Alliance with the Men of Dale
Trade Relations and Alliance with the Elves of Mirkwood
Trade Relations with the Dwarves of Erebor and the Iron Hills
Ruler: The Horn Lord, Domihaus the Bloody-Horned Heir: N/A
While they share no blood with them, the way in which the Minotaurs manage their private affairs closely mirrors that of the Orsimer. Rather than keep to a codified succession, each Minotaur "Herd" determines who shall be the new Chieftain based on matters of strength and brutality. Typically this entails challenging the current Chieftain to a duel for the position, one which ends in the death of one or the other, or, should the old Chieftain die unchallenged, with all those claiming the position fighting to the death to determine a new Chieftain.
Therefore, in spite of the Dreadhorn Clan ostensibly being a Reachman group, any hoping to succeed Domihaus as Patriarch must either challenge him to single combat - a prospect that is as doomed as it is foolhardy - or pray that the Bloody-Horned dies by other means allowing them to fight more beatable opponents for the position.
Family Tree:
Domihaus the Bloody-Horned, Born 2E 561
Thirteen Wives and Three Sons
---
The Leaders of the Dreadhorn Clan:
Overall Leader
Domihaus the Bloody-Horned, Patriarch and Horn Lord
Melzhara, Herd Mother
The House of Steel
Tyzeus Steel-Chest, First Captain of the House of Steel
Mohkius the Lame, Second Captain of the House of Steel
Lurog gro-Shurkul, Third Captain of the House of Steel
The House of Iron
Drasigan Maretach, First Captain of the House of Iron and Mistress of the Forge
The House of Silver
Guntruk Silver-Horn, First Captain of the House of Silver
Akkra gro-Khazor, Second Captain of the House of Silver
To: Karl of the House Franz, First of His Name, King of the Realm of the Smith, Lord Paramount of Reikland, Champion of Light, Shield Of His People, Lord Commander of the Reiksguard, By Grace of The Gods That Are True Lord of Lords @ManusDomini
Your Grace,
I am a maid of noble birth, far from the land of my birth, hounded into exile by the decrees of a tyrant, driven from the lands beyond Lustria onto the shores of this "Confederacy of Princes".
I know that I shall find neither safety nor succour here among these wolves playing at lords. Yet even among these brigand princelings there are tales. Tales of valor, and mercy. Of a heart that is stout enough to defy the dread tyrant who has harried me across the seas, and merciful enough that it will not set aside the pleas of one who has nowhere else to turn.
I pray to the God Beneath The Waves that the tales are true, that you will not refuse my entreaty, that I may be granted leave to shelter in your hall, even if only for a fortnight, that I may recount the saga of my tribulations, as a skald at your fireside, or only as account to be copied by your scribes, so that at least some memory will remain of myself and my people before we perish before our fell overlord's claws.
To the representatives of Everqueen Alarielle the Radiant, Avatar of Isha; Greetings and Well Met!
Your arrival has been a most unexpected but welcome sight in the Vale. It was not known to us that any of the Edhil yet existed in the lands North and East of Dorwinion. There shall be many toasts in the coming nights in Caras Sant to the good fortune of our meeting. It is our hope that some among you may soon join us in our celebration - even your fair race knows the quality of our vintage, as the Line of Thranduil in Eryn Galen can attest! Both the Vintner Court and the Edhil Council would also be well pleased to treat with you and discuss the shape of the world, changed as it is. Though it has brought us friends in this moment, as you say, the shadows circle also, ominous in the distance. To help ensure the good peoples of the world are well prepared for this threat, I would ask that you grant a boon to the peoples of the Vale, and take representatives from among us to your halls, so we might see things clearer there, as you will see them here. We would also be pleased to send a number of our finest casks along with them, so all in your lands might know we speak true as to our most prized possession.
Joyously and Respectfully, Vine-Regent Hawin
(Dorwinion would like to exchange representatives with the High Elves, to learn more about each other - they also propose a trade agreement)
To King Théoden of the House of Eorl, King of the Mark, Lord of the Rohirrim; Greetings and Well Met!
The Vale of Dorwinion has long known of the valiance and skill of the horse-lords, but seldom have we had the chance to behold it with our own eyes, distant as we are. I have hope that you and yours are able to experience the finest vintages of Dorwinion more often than we have been able to witness the prowess of your steeds and riders, but I fear that this too is a rare experience in the halls of Eorl. For this reason, I have decided it prudent to send my chosen successor among the Vine-Lords of the Vintner Court, Swain, to treat with you, and to learn more about the swirling shadows out of the south of which we have heard so many rumors. He and his party will bring with them a healthy provisioning of our best wines, so you can be assured that the occasion of their arrival will be a joyous one!
Joyously and Respectfully, Vine-Regent Hawin
(Dorwinion is sending a party to Rohan led by Vine-Lord Swain, to find out more about the situation - and potentially establish a trade route, if a viable path can be found)
In the light of the lyrium infused abominations and rat-like creatures that are more and more rampaging across the lands , with popular support and at the urging of both the community leaders and generals of the Anderfels , left with no other choice with the criminal inaction of the King , the First Warden has now assumed control over all military elements and will take on the title of Lord Protector of the Anderfels for as long as will be necessary.
The Order of the Grey Wardens urge the Anders people to rally around what will be a New Model Army , free from its past sins of blatant disregard of the common man and woman , set to protect all citizens and to purge the lands from both darkspawn and other horrors threatening it.
An Assembly composed of the representants of the town and settlements will be formed to advise and help the Order maintain national affairs until a normal state of affairs can be achieved."
With control over the Anderfels armed forces wrestled from the weak and complacent King , the First Warden and his circle went on to reorganize this now mixed force that they had over their control.
One of the first acts was to combine former Orlesians chevaliers Grey Wardens with local riders into cavalry regiments nicknamed "Ironsides" , to act as quick response forces and to cover efficiently the large plains and flat wastelands of the Anderfels , with the mass of rural militias previously trained planned to be organised into formations of pikemen due to the ease of manufacturing and using these weapons.
a patrol of the newly created Ironside cavalry
Diplomacy:
From the First Warden to the Kingdom of Nevarra @Awetduck :
You are known as a friend of the Order , and the Anderfels border your own realm, as such I send you this letter with the intention of asking what you have already offered in the past: cooperation between us and military help. The Anderfels are in mortal perils , as is Kal-Sharok , on the last thaigs of the dwarves on Thedas. I call on the legendary heroism and courage of the Pentaghast dynasty , to march your men for the good of not only your neighbours but also the good of all Thedas.
General call to all dwarves present in Thedas , to be spread in all neighbouring nations and in the Anderfels proper @EliudFS1 ( @Ironanvil1 and @THatWhichWillBe maybe ) :
One of the last bastion of your race , some of the last dwarves not yet forced into exil , are now under grave threat. We call on all dwarves , surface dwellers or otherwise , to join the Grey Wardens in the Anderfels , for who do not intend to leave the most old friends of the Order alone in their hour of need , and we will march to not only defend Kal-Sharok but also push back against the hordes and reclaim as much of the Deep Roads and Thaigs as we can.
From Fiona , to Teclis:@Dovahsith
It would be my pleasure to indulge your curiosity , Duncan and I will meet you at your convenience
( ready to go on in rp whenever you want )
The sounds of digging and shouts fill the tunnels
"South-South, Warlord Queek wants to go South, so DIG faster Slaves"
The tunnels and caverns of Daggerfall, once places with animals and the occasional bandit camp, now are places of battle. The Skaven of Clan Mors, being led in the conquest of these new caverns for Skaven kind, by the Warlord Queek Headtaker, Fresh from his victory over the City of Pillars, now he leads the Skaven into new land and new territory for Clan Mors.
The lands and people of the Daggerfall Covenant know not the meance that digs under their feet.
The Last thing a poor Mercanary saw in the underground before his Head was cleaved off
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The City of Middenheim
What was consedierd one of the great fortresses of Mankind was under siege, brave men fight monsters with numbers that seemed endless.
Great hulking rat creatures and machines that fired green light, all that the men had was hope and faith in both Sigmar and themselves.
I will forthwith dispatch the Second Nevarran army at Perendal and the Parendal Circle of mages under command of my own brother Ferdinand Pentaghast the Dragon Hunter to assist in resisting these new menaces. I would like to establish a new road between Perendale and Kal-Sharok and Weisshaupt.
Simultaneously I am Assigning Duke Anaxas With the 3rd Army and Coastal and Deep Fleets to aid your ongoing actions in Fereldan with Mortalasti under Viuus Anaxas.
I understand the nature of your apolitical stance has changed and would like to be the first Monarch to recognize and legitimize your claims on Eastern Anderfel as His Grace Grand Duke of the Broken Tooths.
To the representatives of Everqueen Alarielle the Radiant, Avatar of Isha; Greetings and Well Met!
Your arrival has been a most unexpected but welcome sight in the Vale. It was not known to us that any of the Edhil yet existed in the lands North and East of Dorwinion. There shall be many toasts in the coming nights in Caras Sant to the good fortune of our meeting. It is our hope that some among you may soon join us in our celebration - even your fair race knows the quality of our vintage, as the Line of Thranduil in Eryn Galen can attest! Both the Vintner Court and the Edhil Council would also be well pleased to treat with you and discuss the shape of the world, changed as it is. Though it has brought us friends in this moment, as you say, the shadows circle also, ominous in the distance. To help ensure the good peoples of the world are well prepared for this threat, I would ask that you grant a boon to the peoples of the Vale, and take representatives from among us to your halls, so we might see things clearer there, as you will see them here. We would also be pleased to send a number of our finest casks along with them, so all in your lands might know we speak true as to our most prized possession.
Joyously and Respectfully, Vine-Regent Hawin
(Dorwinion would like to exchange representatives with the High Elves, to learn more about each other - they also propose a trade agreement)
This is most agreeable and with such joyous news that Asur reside elsewhere upon the tides of this evershifting world. That we might meet, trade gifts and learn of one another is as if the sun has parted the clouds and so warmth and light has returned to us once more.
Though perhaps it might be best less joyful words be traded in far less open tones?
Your Faction name: Federation of Antivan City States Year/Turn Number: Turn 3; Year 7 of the Dragon Age
Flag or Image associated with your faction:
Summary:
From her base in Seleny, Josephine and her allies began expanding their power base. Under the name "Federation of Antivan City States", they sought to join the discordant powers of Antiva under a new system which, while officially recognising each members sovereignty, would allow for a more effective and quicker use of everyone's resources, such as presenting a united front in economic matters against foreign powers instead of being hampered by infighting. Or creating a combined standing army instead of the cluttered mess of several small private armies.
While the Federation was in its infancy, its influence was rising comet-like, already having secured support from several powerful merchant princes, with Antiva city, Rialto and Treviso joining it.
Many of its supporters liked to claim that this was mostly thanks to the great diplomatic acumen of the lady Josephine Montilyet. But others, including Josephine herself, were well aware that this was only possible because the House of Crows had decided to support the endeavour.
At the moment, aside from growing their influence and trying to get the rest of the country into the fold as swiftly as possible, the Federation was ironing out new treaties with the Felicisima Armada, to ensure that their maritime trading empire remained protected in these uncertain times. After the invasion by vampire pirates, the Armada was more concerned than ever about the security of their continued existence, so having a promising ally like the Federation seemed like a good thing to most of them.
Though people were hard at work planning for the creation of a combined army for all of Antiva, for their current campaign, the liberation of Arlathan, the Federation had to make do with an army of mercenaries. Home-grown troops simply weren't there yet. Fortunately, the Free Marches and Rivain were close by to ensure a big surplus of available mercenaries. The many connections of the Valo-Kas, who would be the head of this mercenary army, certainly came in handy, as did Crow-connections.
Aside from the mercenaries, Josephine also sent a lot of letters to the Chantry, from local clerics in Antiva to the highest office in Orlais.
For one, to request support for the attack on the Greenskins in Arlathan in the form of a regiment of Templars. Arguing that the marauding green monsters were a clear threat to the faithful and also had mages of their own, against which the Templars would no doubt prove useful.
Second, employing all political connections available to her, she urged the Chantry NOT to call for an Exalted March against the Dalish seeking to reclaim Arlathan from the greenskins, arguing how such an act, well-willed and just as it might be, would only weaken Thedas as a whole against much worse things from beyond the continent, and that this was the time for unity.
Lastly, there was an unexpected boon to the campaign against the greenskins.
Josephine had sent messengers to contact the witch of the Tellari swamps for a while now, and for a long time they came back without success. Eventually though, the witch Yavana came to Josephine, one night flying through the window of her private office where she was working late in the shape of a bird.
The witch told the diplomat that she would have preferred to stay out of human politics and wars. But then a foul power from beyond this sphere had enslaved the spirit of a dragon and taken it away. Other, lesser abominations were rampaging through Ferelden and threatened nature in a way humanity never had.
Yavana knew that she could not fight this alone, so aligning herself with the Federation, if only partially, would be to her benefit. She told Josephine that she could continue sending messages, and if Yavana found the cause worthy, she would aid it. Naturally, in return she expected help from teh Federation if asked for.
From that point, it was quite easy for Josephine to convince the Witch of the Wilds to aid in the campaign to Arlathan. After all, due to having been abandoned by civilisation for generations, Arlathan was a place with one of the biggest populations of surviving dragons, including High-Dragons, in all of Thedas. Yavana, having saved the species from extinction at the hand of human hunters ages ago, responsible for their return in this age, would be all to happy to make the few High-Dragons in Alrathan turn on the greenskins, at an opportune time to support the Antiva and Tevinter forces. On their own, the dragons would inevitably be brought down by the greenskins, but when supporting an army, then they had a chance.
And so, soon, the first trial of the Federation of Antivan City States would be going through the fire within the treacherous woods of the north.
To: Tevinter Imperium @Bandeirante
From: The Federation of Antivan City States
Secret
Rest assured that we are in complete agreement about the Arlathan situation. Though Antiva has sought to avoid open war for past generations, thanks to it our war-chests have been growing to the point of bursting. And know that I shall see them all serving a singular purpose: The protection of Thedas from outside threats.
For too long has Tevinter stood alone in its struggle against the legions of the Qun. It is a shame on all nations that we did not assist in defending the freedom of the continent once the exalted marches concluded. Nevermore. I care not what historic plights there have been, here and now the men and women of Thedas must put their differences aside if we are to weather the forces coming to invade our shores.
In that vein I must bring up the matter of the Dalish. We shall try our very best to bring them and their invaluable skills into the fold. Though as usual, people tend to fight best when properly motivated.
The current situation clearly shows that Arlathan is a weak point. The green savages should have never been able to make landfall in Thedas unopposed, and yet they did with only wildlife to hinder them.
A most sure-fire way of gaining Dalish help would be assurances that both our nations would support them in rebuilding a Dalish nation within the forests of Arlathan after it is cleansed of greenskins, as is their intention already anyway (and we really don't need them as an enemy right now). Thus we would gain a buffer state and future ally as an extra defensive layer against future invasions.
Naturally I'd understand if you'd have reservations about this. Consider though, that we'd inform the elves that Antiva and Tevinter would only recognise their right to a nation if they are to sign a treaty that forbids the participants from making war on one another, and also binds the new elven nation to our own economically. Furthermore, the Crows would see to it that all elven leaders pushing for a war against either of us regardless would not live long.
Going back to the present. Once our armies join forces to cleanse Arlathan, please do let your troops know that:
- We will try to get Templar support from the Chantry, as the enemy is said to have mages also.
- There will be Tal-Vashoth mercenaries in our ranks. Remember that many of them hate the Qun as much as you do, if not more.
- Our armies will be reinforced by dragons. Please tell your soldiers not to attack them.
To: The Dawi-Zharr @Ironanvil1
From: The Federation of Antivan City States
We are interested in purchasing rifles for our soldiers and cannons for our ships. Name your price so that we may come to a beneficial and long-lasting agreement.
People of importance:
Josephine Montilyet:
Shokrakar:
Arganna Adaar:
Zevran:
Isabela:
Yavana:
Diplomatic Ties/Ongoing Treaties
Relations to the royal houses of all Thedas, and many other noble families
Combined military campaign with Tevinter
Important trade nexus
Warden Treaties
Origin of Theda's surviving dragons
