"And the woman sat upon the scarlet tomb and opened her eyes for all to see, eyes of fire...
Upon This Sword of Fire (CKII Quest)
- Thread starter Crilltic
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- Original Fantasy
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Statistics (58 threadmarks, 110k words)
User Total Crilltic 58
OP
- Location
- Massholistan
"And the woman sat upon the scarlet tomb and opened her eyes for all to see, eyes of fire beneath a star-filled brow, and with her wake came the end of the beginning." - Book of Flame 12:16~
It is the 562nd Year of the Age of Flame and the world is in turmoil. Conflict rages from the gates of the Cerulean Sea to the Kurlak Mountain in the east, splitting the East from West. The armies of the Ash Maiden march far and wide, crushing all opposition beneath their tempered faith. Five centuries after the Prophet Syllus proclaimed there would be another as he was executed, that Coming has happened. She was allegedly once a peasant girl named Sveta from the Eunii tribe in the forested north, insignificant to all but a few...until she died. Now, the once crowned Peasant wears many names.
The Ash Maiden, the Queen of Kings, the Daughter of God, the Red Empress, The Flame-Wreathed Tyrant...but to you she is your mother. Not that she was much of a mother to you young one. You are the youngest, and thus you were raised by courtiers and servants...and your sisters when they deigned to visit you. You have spent 18 years wrapped in the Capital, for although you are young you are still a princess of the Sarkans Koši the Scarlet Empire. The blood that flows through your vein is more valuable than all the gold and gems in the Empire, for it is your Mother's blood, the blood of the First Flame on Earth, and it is that blood that bears a burden.
It is the 562nd Year of the Age of Flame and the Empire is in turmoil. The Prophetess Sveta is gone, to where no one knows. Some say she has left to return to Heaven, while others say she has departed to other parts of their world to spread the First Flame where it's light has never been known. Whatever Heaven's plan, the Hand of the Divine has left the Scarlet Empire, perhaps permanently. And thus, control fell to the heirs of the Ash Maiden, her four daughters. Mortal hands could not hope to control that vastness of the Empire by themselves, even ones that carried the spark of the divine within them. But divided, divided they may just manage.
Which is how you, youngest daughter of the Ash Maiden, have found yourself wearing a crown too big for your head. It's weight bears down on your soul, for the road ahead is dark and full of terrors. Cracks are already visible in the foundation. Enemies long thought vanquished rear their head in the absence of Her light, and old faiths feel new vigor as the truth ceases to show their twisted lies for what they are.
You are not your mother, that much is clear, but if the mark of Heaven is to last on the mortal world you must find the strength within to protect what She has wrought. May the First Flame bless your rule, and if you fail...pray to the Ash King for mercy, because your enemies in this life will have none.
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Character & Setting Information
- Location
- Massholistan
Character Sheet
Illona the Pious; Heiress-Queen of Väljad
Appearance:
Stats:
Diplomacy: 11+2+3+2+6+5 = 29 - You have quite a silver tongue
Martial: 10+6+3-3-3 = 13- You are an experienced fighter and a competent, inspiring leader of men, though you loath to harm others.
Stewardship: 10+2+5 = 17 - You know the basics of money and numbers.
Intrigue: 18+2-5-3 = 12 - You can lie convincingly to people who don't know you well, though you are too kind to make much use of it
Piety: 15+6+6+6+5+5+3 = 45 [Cap] - Your soul shines brightly for all to see, a beacon of faith in this world
Learning: 12+1 = 13 - You're of average creativity and intelligence
Combat Skill: 6 (Martial/2) + 15 + 27 (Piety*3/5) + 2 (Learning/6) = 50 - Your skill in combat is extraordinary, lesser men are little more than chaff before you when you take the field.
Traits:
Persuasive: A silver tongue can be the best key, and yours is gilded indeed. +2 Diplomacy and better chance to persuade people.
Adept Magi: You have reached a point where you can control that which lies within your blood, at least in the physical world. The arcane bends to your will, though still with some hesitation. You still have much to learn, but for someone entirely self-taught it is a testament to your innate power. +6 Piety, +3 Diplomacy. 3/5 of Piety added to Combat stat.
Heiress-Queen: You are one of the Heiress-Queens of the Ash Maiden. Marked in fire and coronated with the ancient rites in full. You blood is divine fire, and your word carries great weight, even among those who wish it didn't. +2 Diplomacy
Veteran: You are a hardened fighter, capable of keeping your head and holding your own in the swirling chaos of combat. +3 Martial, +15 Combat Skill
Humble: There but for the Grace of God go I. +6 Piety
The Sight: The key unlocked something in your eyes, your vision is much sharper than you remember it being, and everything you see is constantly in focus. It took some getting used to, and you feel like this is just the tip of what it can do, but right now you're not ready to try anything else. +2 Intrigue, +1 Learning. 1/6th of Learning added to combat skill. Increase chance to spot that which is hidden.
Inspiring Leader: You grasp the reins of men, and can wield them to amazing heights. You are a master of the flow of battle, you know the enemy as intimately as you know yourself, and with that, you can kill them. +20 to all battle rolls for armies this Hero leads.
The Holy Trinity: You possess the three major virtues in abundance, and in balance. Your Passion tempered by Tenacity, your Faith guided by Passion and your Tenacity steeled by Faith. +6 Piety, +6 Martial, +2 Stewardship +10% Fertility. Chance for Children to Inherit [Passionate] [Tenacious] or [Faithful].
Fires of the Womb: You know not what the ritual did exactly, but you feel a new sense of assurance and strength in your body. You know deep down your children will take after you, in body...and in spirit. Guaranteed chance to pass along [The Gift] to children. Increase chance for child to inherit Maternal traits.
The Soul: Your soul glows brightly with otherworldly energy, capable of physically manifesting in the mortal realm, and your own prospects of faith. +5 Piety. Raises Piety Cap to 45. Can be inherited.
--The Juggernaut: You never give up, you never surrender, even in hopelessness. The strength of your soul is your bulwark, and when hope is at its bleakest, it can be your final bulwark, and its strength is unending. Upon loosing a combat check, Illona takes a Piety Check of DC 90. If passed, She all her stats (including combat skill) are doubled for the duration of the combat and she is personally immune to harm.
Innocent Heart: When confronted by your Other Self, you choose the path of redemption, purifying with it with your own essence and absorbing it into your hearts. You have conquered your demons not by killing them, or letting them conquer you, but by making them your own. You lost some of your deepest desires, but in your heart of hearts you now know true innocence. +5 Piety, +5 Diplomacy, +5 Stewardship. -5 Intrigue. -3 Martial. Can be inherited. Immune to negative effects of magic.
Compassionate: Kindness, Understanding and Empathy are your bywords, you are loath to practice cruelty or harm to another person, even if that is the "best" course of action. But not to you, for the path of spite and hatefulness if one you never wish to travel. +6 Diplomacy, +3 Piety. -3 Intrigue, -3 Martial.
Artifacts:
Obsidian Armor - Massively boosts survivability in combat, +5 combat rolls, enemy takes a -10 penalty to their combat rolls against you. Can be upgraded with new material later on.
Dramatis Personae
Advisers:
Alina Zemnieks (Diplomatic Advisor)
Asya Talashīrr (Martial Advisor)
Aljann Blade-Mistress
Alfred Vecais (Stewardship Adviser)
Lilita Vecais (Intrigue Adviser)
Andesjz; Priest of the First Flame (Learning Adviser)
Other Allies:
Valts Birze
Māka
Spirit of Knowledge
Illona the Pious; Heiress-Queen of Väljad
Appearance:
Stats:
Diplomacy: 11+2+3+2+6+5 = 29 - You have quite a silver tongue
Martial: 10+6+3-3-3 = 13- You are an experienced fighter and a competent, inspiring leader of men, though you loath to harm others.
Stewardship: 10+2+5 = 17 - You know the basics of money and numbers.
Intrigue: 18+2-5-3 = 12 - You can lie convincingly to people who don't know you well, though you are too kind to make much use of it
Piety: 15+6+6+6+5+5+3 = 45 [Cap] - Your soul shines brightly for all to see, a beacon of faith in this world
Learning: 12+1 = 13 - You're of average creativity and intelligence
Combat Skill: 6 (Martial/2) + 15 + 27 (Piety*3/5) + 2 (Learning/6) = 50 - Your skill in combat is extraordinary, lesser men are little more than chaff before you when you take the field.
Traits:
Persuasive: A silver tongue can be the best key, and yours is gilded indeed. +2 Diplomacy and better chance to persuade people.
Adept Magi: You have reached a point where you can control that which lies within your blood, at least in the physical world. The arcane bends to your will, though still with some hesitation. You still have much to learn, but for someone entirely self-taught it is a testament to your innate power. +6 Piety, +3 Diplomacy. 3/5 of Piety added to Combat stat.
Heiress-Queen: You are one of the Heiress-Queens of the Ash Maiden. Marked in fire and coronated with the ancient rites in full. You blood is divine fire, and your word carries great weight, even among those who wish it didn't. +2 Diplomacy
Veteran: You are a hardened fighter, capable of keeping your head and holding your own in the swirling chaos of combat. +3 Martial, +15 Combat Skill
Humble: There but for the Grace of God go I. +6 Piety
The Sight: The key unlocked something in your eyes, your vision is much sharper than you remember it being, and everything you see is constantly in focus. It took some getting used to, and you feel like this is just the tip of what it can do, but right now you're not ready to try anything else. +2 Intrigue, +1 Learning. 1/6th of Learning added to combat skill. Increase chance to spot that which is hidden.
Inspiring Leader: You grasp the reins of men, and can wield them to amazing heights. You are a master of the flow of battle, you know the enemy as intimately as you know yourself, and with that, you can kill them. +20 to all battle rolls for armies this Hero leads.
The Holy Trinity: You possess the three major virtues in abundance, and in balance. Your Passion tempered by Tenacity, your Faith guided by Passion and your Tenacity steeled by Faith. +6 Piety, +6 Martial, +2 Stewardship +10% Fertility. Chance for Children to Inherit [Passionate] [Tenacious] or [Faithful].
Fires of the Womb: You know not what the ritual did exactly, but you feel a new sense of assurance and strength in your body. You know deep down your children will take after you, in body...and in spirit. Guaranteed chance to pass along [The Gift] to children. Increase chance for child to inherit Maternal traits.
The Soul: Your soul glows brightly with otherworldly energy, capable of physically manifesting in the mortal realm, and your own prospects of faith. +5 Piety. Raises Piety Cap to 45. Can be inherited.
--The Juggernaut: You never give up, you never surrender, even in hopelessness. The strength of your soul is your bulwark, and when hope is at its bleakest, it can be your final bulwark, and its strength is unending. Upon loosing a combat check, Illona takes a Piety Check of DC 90. If passed, She all her stats (including combat skill) are doubled for the duration of the combat and she is personally immune to harm.
Innocent Heart: When confronted by your Other Self, you choose the path of redemption, purifying with it with your own essence and absorbing it into your hearts. You have conquered your demons not by killing them, or letting them conquer you, but by making them your own. You lost some of your deepest desires, but in your heart of hearts you now know true innocence. +5 Piety, +5 Diplomacy, +5 Stewardship. -5 Intrigue. -3 Martial. Can be inherited. Immune to negative effects of magic.
Compassionate: Kindness, Understanding and Empathy are your bywords, you are loath to practice cruelty or harm to another person, even if that is the "best" course of action. But not to you, for the path of spite and hatefulness if one you never wish to travel. +6 Diplomacy, +3 Piety. -3 Intrigue, -3 Martial.
Artifacts:
Obsidian Armor - Massively boosts survivability in combat, +5 combat rolls, enemy takes a -10 penalty to their combat rolls against you. Can be upgraded with new material later on.
Dramatis Personae
Advisers:
Alina Zemnieks (Diplomatic Advisor)
Diplomacy: 14+1 = 15
Martial: 9+1+1 = 11
Stewardship: 14+1 = 15
Intrigue: 10+1 = 11
Piety: 13+5+1 = 19
Learning: 13+1 = 14
Combat Skill: 5.5+5 = 10.5
Martial: 9+1+1 = 11
Stewardship: 14+1 = 15
Intrigue: 10+1 = 11
Piety: 13+5+1 = 19
Learning: 13+1 = 14
Combat Skill: 5.5+5 = 10.5
Faithful: The third point of the soul, and the most important. Your faith in the legacy of your Mother, and the First Flame are unshakable. You are Sylltāji through and through . +5 Piety, increased relationship with family, severally decreased relationship with anyone from another faith. (Can be inherited)
Weapons Training: You have received some training in the art of the short axe, the traditional weapon of your people. You're still a novice, but you can at least hold your own in a fight. +1 Martial, +5 Combat Skill
Sharp: Your mind is keen instrument +1 to all stats (Can be inherited).
Weapons Training: You have received some training in the art of the short axe, the traditional weapon of your people. You're still a novice, but you can at least hold your own in a fight. +1 Martial, +5 Combat Skill
Sharp: Your mind is keen instrument +1 to all stats (Can be inherited).
Asya Talashīrr (Martial Advisor)
Aljann Blade-Mistress
Diplomacy: 9+5+1+2 = 17
Martial: 19+3+8 = 30
Stewardship: 16 = 16
Intrigue: 12+1 = 13
Piety: 17+5 = 22
Learning: 4 = 4
Combat Skill: 30/2+25 = 40 (50 when facing Magi)
Martial: 19+3+8 = 30
Stewardship: 16 = 16
Intrigue: 12+1 = 13
Piety: 17+5 = 22
Learning: 4 = 4
Combat Skill: 30/2+25 = 40 (50 when facing Magi)
Persuasive: A silver tongue can be the best key, and yours is gilded indeed. +2 Diplomacy and better chance to persuade people.
Faithful: The fires of faith are deeply ingrained in you. Your piety and commitment to the teachings of the First Flame are a defining part of who you are. +5 Piety (Can be passed down)
Spirit of the Shifting Sands: Deep within the Astrazi Desert dwell the sand spirits, known to the human tribes as the Aljann. It is said they are the guardians of the of the massive Oasis that lies at the center of the great desert. Whatever else, they are rarely seen by humans, and are known for their extreme grace and beauty. (Can be passed down). +5 Diplomacy
Inspiring Leader: You grasp the reins of men, and can wield them to amazing heights. You are a master of the flow of battle, you know the enemy as intimately as you know yourself, and with that, you can kill them. +20 to all battle rolls for armies this Hero leads.
[Magi Hunter] - You have fought opponents with abilities far beyond mortal men, and you have killed them. You know how to fight them, and you know how to kill them. +3 Martial +10 to combat skill when fighting magical opponents.
[Peerless] - Your skill in the arts of martial combat is unmatched, to face you in combat is to die. +8 Martial. +25 Combat Skill (Loses Trait: [Blade-Mistress])
[Sly] You're skilled at thinking things through, puzzling through things in your head and coming up with the right answer with limited information. +1 Intrigue. +1 Diplomacy +10 to personal intrigue rolls.
Faithful: The fires of faith are deeply ingrained in you. Your piety and commitment to the teachings of the First Flame are a defining part of who you are. +5 Piety (Can be passed down)
Spirit of the Shifting Sands: Deep within the Astrazi Desert dwell the sand spirits, known to the human tribes as the Aljann. It is said they are the guardians of the of the massive Oasis that lies at the center of the great desert. Whatever else, they are rarely seen by humans, and are known for their extreme grace and beauty. (Can be passed down). +5 Diplomacy
Inspiring Leader: You grasp the reins of men, and can wield them to amazing heights. You are a master of the flow of battle, you know the enemy as intimately as you know yourself, and with that, you can kill them. +20 to all battle rolls for armies this Hero leads.
[Magi Hunter] - You have fought opponents with abilities far beyond mortal men, and you have killed them. You know how to fight them, and you know how to kill them. +3 Martial +10 to combat skill when fighting magical opponents.
[Peerless] - Your skill in the arts of martial combat is unmatched, to face you in combat is to die. +8 Martial. +25 Combat Skill (Loses Trait: [Blade-Mistress])
[Sly] You're skilled at thinking things through, puzzling through things in your head and coming up with the right answer with limited information. +1 Intrigue. +1 Diplomacy +10 to personal intrigue rolls.
Alfred Vecais (Stewardship Adviser)
Diplomacy: 4+2+3 = 9
Martial: 3-5 = 0
Stewardship: 16+6 = 22
Intrigue: 12-5-2 = 5
Piety: 17 = 17
Learning: 5+6 = 11
Combat Skill: 0-5 = -5
Martial: 3-5 = 0
Stewardship: 16+6 = 22
Intrigue: 12-5-2 = 5
Piety: 17 = 17
Learning: 5+6 = 11
Combat Skill: 0-5 = -5
Languid: You disdain physical acts. That's not to say you are lazy, but you prefer to spend your time on more mental pursuits, rather than the barbarity of violence and subterfuge. +6 Stewardship & Learning, -5 Martial & Intrigue, -5 Combat Skill
Persuasive: A silver tongue can be the best key, and yours is gilded indeed. +2 Diplomacy and better chance to persuade people.
Honest: You do right by others, so they will do right by you. In all things, the truth will set you free. +3 Diplomacy, -2 Intrigue
Persuasive: A silver tongue can be the best key, and yours is gilded indeed. +2 Diplomacy and better chance to persuade people.
Honest: You do right by others, so they will do right by you. In all things, the truth will set you free. +3 Diplomacy, -2 Intrigue
Lilita Vecais (Intrigue Adviser)
Diplomacy: 7+1+4 = 12
Martial: 9+1 = 10
Stewardship: 16+1 = 17
Intrigue: 18+1-2 = 17
Piety: 7+5+1 = 13
Learning: 15+1 = 16
Combat Skill: 10/2 = 5
Martial: 9+1 = 10
Stewardship: 16+1 = 17
Intrigue: 18+1-2 = 17
Piety: 7+5+1 = 13
Learning: 15+1 = 16
Combat Skill: 10/2 = 5
Faithful: The third point of the soul, and the most important. Your faith in the legacy of your Mother, and the First Flame are unshakable. You are Sylltāji through and through . +5 Piety, increased relationship with family, severely decreased relationship with anyone from another faith. (Can be inherited)
Sharp: Your mind is keen instrument +1 to all stats (Can be inherited).
Beautiful: Your beauty and grace is the stuff of song, instantly recognizable by any who have beheld it. For good or ill. +4 Diplomacy, -2 Intrigue. Boost to Fertility (Can be inherited)
Sharp: Your mind is keen instrument +1 to all stats (Can be inherited).
Beautiful: Your beauty and grace is the stuff of song, instantly recognizable by any who have beheld it. For good or ill. +4 Diplomacy, -2 Intrigue. Boost to Fertility (Can be inherited)
Andesjz; Priest of the First Flame (Learning Adviser)
Diplomacy: 9 = 9
Martial: 6-2+1 = 5
Stewardship: 18+3 = 21
Intrigue: 12 = 12
Piety: 13+5 = 18
Learning: 18
Combat Skill: 5/2 + 5 = 7.5
Martial: 6-2+1 = 5
Stewardship: 18+3 = 21
Intrigue: 12 = 12
Piety: 13+5 = 18
Learning: 18
Combat Skill: 5/2 + 5 = 7.5
Perfectionist: If you're going to do something, you get it right the first time. Failure is intolerable to you. Everything you do is polished to perfection, but that takes time, so in the heat of the moment you can be left stumbling. +3 Stewardship, -2 Martial
Faithful: The third point of the soul, and the most important. Your faith in the legacy of your Mother, and the First Flame are unshakable. You are Sylltāji through and through . +5 Piety, increased relationship with family, severally decreased relationship with anyone from another faith. (Can be inherited)
Weapons Training: You have received some training in the art of the short axe, the traditional weapon of your people. You're still a novice, but you can at least hold your own in a fight. +1 Martial, +5 Combat Skill
Faithful: The third point of the soul, and the most important. Your faith in the legacy of your Mother, and the First Flame are unshakable. You are Sylltāji through and through . +5 Piety, increased relationship with family, severally decreased relationship with anyone from another faith. (Can be inherited)
Weapons Training: You have received some training in the art of the short axe, the traditional weapon of your people. You're still a novice, but you can at least hold your own in a fight. +1 Martial, +5 Combat Skill
Other Allies:
Valts Birze
Diplomacy: 7+3 = 10
Martial: 17-2+3 = 18
Stewardship: 3+3 = 6
Intrigue: 11-2 = 8
Piety: 6 = 6
Learning: 14 = 14
Combat Skill: 9+10 = 19
Martial: 17-2+3 = 18
Stewardship: 3+3 = 6
Intrigue: 11-2 = 8
Piety: 6 = 6
Learning: 14 = 14
Combat Skill: 9+10 = 19
Perfectionist: If you're going to do something, you get it right the first time. Failure is intolerable to you. Everything you do is polished to perfection, but that takes time, so in the heat of the moment you can be left stumbling. +3 Stewardship, -2 Martial
Striking: Your figure cuts a highly appealing, and striking stance, one no one who meets you is likely to forget anytime soon, for good or ill. +3 Diplomacy, -2 Intrigue (Can be passed down)
Veteran: You have tossed into the crucible of combat and come out the other side stronger for it. +3 Martial, +10 Combat Skill
Striking: Your figure cuts a highly appealing, and striking stance, one no one who meets you is likely to forget anytime soon, for good or ill. +3 Diplomacy, -2 Intrigue (Can be passed down)
Veteran: You have tossed into the crucible of combat and come out the other side stronger for it. +3 Martial, +10 Combat Skill
Māka
Spirit of Knowledge
Diplomacy: 9+4+3 = 16
Martial: 1-8-2 = 0
Stewardship: 22+3 = 25
Intrigue: 25-2 = 23
Piety: 17+4 = 21
Learning: 30 = 30
Martial: 1-8-2 = 0
Stewardship: 22+3 = 25
Intrigue: 25-2 = 23
Piety: 17+4 = 21
Learning: 30 = 30
Spirit: These beings appear in some of the oldest known legends, beings of pure magic that life among the lands. Wild ones are helpful but often mercurial in their interests, while some become tied to specific places or concepts. Stats rolled at 1d30.
Pacifist: You shall never raise your hand in anger. -8 Martial, +4 Diplomacy, +4 Piety
Honest: You just can't keep your mouth shut. +3 Diplomacy, -2 Intrigue.
Blank Slate: You take ques from those around that you trust, their strengths can become your strengths, their weaknesses yours. Heightened chance to receive traits from people who spend time with.
Perfectionist: If you're going to do something, you get it right the first time. Failure is intolerable to you. Everything you do is polished to perfection, but that takes time, so in the heat of the moment you can be left stumbling. +3 Stewardship, -2 Martial
Pacifist: You shall never raise your hand in anger. -8 Martial, +4 Diplomacy, +4 Piety
Honest: You just can't keep your mouth shut. +3 Diplomacy, -2 Intrigue.
Blank Slate: You take ques from those around that you trust, their strengths can become your strengths, their weaknesses yours. Heightened chance to receive traits from people who spend time with.
Perfectionist: If you're going to do something, you get it right the first time. Failure is intolerable to you. Everything you do is polished to perfection, but that takes time, so in the heat of the moment you can be left stumbling. +3 Stewardship, -2 Martial
History of the Scarlet Empire
The Scarlet Empire's history on this world is short and swift, but the roots of its creation lay much deeper. For before there was the Ash Maiden there was Syllus, the first prophet of God on Earth, and he spread the word of the One True God Ohrmazda, the two-faced God, the First Flame and the Ash King, Creation and Destruction. He descended from on-high, the Son of God himself, to spread the word of the First Flame among the eight tribes of Runāja. And so he went, preaching throughout the land, and awoke the Faith for the first time in mortal hearts. The tribes were united and upon this sacred ground they named themselves the Sylltāji, the Followers of Syllus.
But fate was not with the Sylltāji at this time, for with their newfound strength they drew the ire of the Straydor, who at the height of their power claimed ownership of all the world. They looked at the Faith as rebellion, and their response was swift and merciless. The forests of Runāja ran red with the blood of the Faithful, and even the Prophet Syllus was captured. Tried as a rebel, though he was guilty of nothing but spreading the truth, his fate was death. But as his spirit fled his mortal shell to return where he once came, the words of vengeance for the Faithful killed there were on his lips. There would be another, His sibling, stronger than him in power that would return to finish what he had begun. The Straydor laughed, and soon forgot, the Faith was broke, the eight tribes scattered. What could a dying Faith do to challenge them, those who had crushed it once already?
But they were wrong, the Faith in the First Flame did not die out, though the tribes were scattered and feuding they still kept it within their hearts. While the Straydor waned in power and found new rivals to their rule. The Hastrijan Empire to the south defied their power, and were all but equal in strength. The border princes and nomadic tribes of the East would raid Straydor lands for wealth and plunder. As the Dynasty declined the Sylltāji remained broken and quarrelsome, feuding amongst themselves for leadership. Until that is, the Ash Maiden came.
Five centuries since the Age of Fire dawned with the arrival of Syllus, a peasant girl died of wounds none could find, and lived for a purpose none could have seen. Born of the Eunii, the greatest of the eight tribes, she united them beneath her banner. She burned a swath through the Great Forest, all who opposed fell beneath the strength of her conviction. Through fire and steel the eight tribes were once again united. The First Flame had returned to the world, bearing conquest and death in its wake.
All the while the Straydor and Hastrijan remained locked in their cycle of combat. The Five Summer's War raged through the mountains of Vana, as both sought to control the vast wealth and history of the region. The rivers of blood ran through those ancient valleys, as mighty armies clashed and clashed until the could clash no more. The Straydor and Hastrijan broke themselves on each other's swords, and in the end only anarchy reigned in Vana. Petty princelings tasted independence for the first time as their lords retreated with their battered armies, and the Elves continued their millennia long feuds amongst themselves with nary a care to the affairs of men.
But the worst was yet to come for Straydor, as the ancient dynasty approached its twilight. Heydritch the Strong, Emperor of All Straydor. Who started the war to fight his enemies and prove his strength, died of illness in his sleep. Leaving his two sons to settle for themselves who would rule. Civil War raged in the Dynasty as brother fought brother for control of the throne, and a nation long suffering from war bled with new wounds. Perhaps in time the Straydor could have recovered but it was now, at the Dynasty's nadir, that the Ash Maiden struck.
The armies of the First Flame surged across the border, over-running the weakened border defenses with ease. Eager to repay the Straydor for their actions at the dawn of their age they cut a bloody swath through the Empire. But even now, in the Empire's final moments, the two brothers could not unite to save their Dynasty. They fought the Faith alone, and at the sword of the Ash Maiden, they died alone. With them died the Straydor, the end of an era was at hand. The Faith soon after seized the capital, and the Faith soon ran through the veins of the Straydor bureaucracy. The much-vaunted centralization of the Dynasty proved to be its undoing, and with it went the wealth and splendor of the Straydor.
With the wealth and power of the Straydor at her back the Ash Maiden fell upon her other neighbors with renewed vigor. The princelings of Vana were the first to fall, their paltry attempts to resist faltered in the face of the flame-forged armies of the newly-proclaimed Scarlet Empire. Most impressive of all was when the Daughter of the Ash Maiden assaulted the very gates of Hastrijan itself, and nearly broken them. But the ancient gates, held firm, and the Ash Maiden would be denied her prize. Regardless, the riches of Vana, long fought over, now were hers. Though bandits and other forces still remained, the forces of chaos had been driven back to the darkest corners of those ancient peaks.
Finally the Scarlet Empire turned its head east. The border princes of the East, long independent, fell beneath the might of the Empire. With them subjugated the Ash Maiden pushed further, swallowing the length of the Ruby River. They faced many foes on their trek east to the Kurlaks. The great clans of the Steppes blocked their way, but after the Kóngur Balder of the High Plains was defeated in single combat, the clans bent the knee or disappeared into the northern steppes. Even the vaunted mercenary armies of Qūr-dalan were no match for the might of the First Flame.
And with the fall of Qūr-dalan the Ash Maiden returned to Runāja with triumph. The Scarlet Empire stood triumphant. From the foot of the Kurlak mountains in the east to the gates of the Cerulean Sea facing the endless ocean to the west, the Two-Faced God held sway. Only mighty Hastrijan stood apart, biding their time beyond their walls of the steel and mortar beyond Vana, but they could not hope to challenge the might of the Scarlet Empire beyond themselves.
Thus began the Golden Age. With the Ash Maiden at its head, the Scarlet Empire was unparalleled. None dared challenge her rule, and many took the First Flame into their hearts. Peace and Prosperity returned to a land long torn by war, from the horrors of the Five Summers War, to the Scarlet Crusades that built the Empire. Those were in the past. For twenty years the Ash Maiden ruled from her throne of fire, and for twenty years the world knew peace.
But now, the Ash Maiden is gone. Left the lands that she built for parts unknown. And already cracks long hidden are showing their face. Chaos has returned to Vana, as bandits stalk the land and the Elvish feuds reach a new crescendo of blood and fear. The might of Straydor stirs as well, though the Faithful hold the yoke of the mighty beast, the people are not so inclined to their new faith. In the East, the nomads venture south, sensing weakness where the was once strength, and the border princes see opportunity to take their own destiny once again. And finally, in the capital the eight tribes once again have begun feuding between themselves. Now is the time for the Heirs of the Ash Maiden, her four daughters to take the role of their mother, to protect the Kingdom of God on Earth.
But fate was not with the Sylltāji at this time, for with their newfound strength they drew the ire of the Straydor, who at the height of their power claimed ownership of all the world. They looked at the Faith as rebellion, and their response was swift and merciless. The forests of Runāja ran red with the blood of the Faithful, and even the Prophet Syllus was captured. Tried as a rebel, though he was guilty of nothing but spreading the truth, his fate was death. But as his spirit fled his mortal shell to return where he once came, the words of vengeance for the Faithful killed there were on his lips. There would be another, His sibling, stronger than him in power that would return to finish what he had begun. The Straydor laughed, and soon forgot, the Faith was broke, the eight tribes scattered. What could a dying Faith do to challenge them, those who had crushed it once already?
But they were wrong, the Faith in the First Flame did not die out, though the tribes were scattered and feuding they still kept it within their hearts. While the Straydor waned in power and found new rivals to their rule. The Hastrijan Empire to the south defied their power, and were all but equal in strength. The border princes and nomadic tribes of the East would raid Straydor lands for wealth and plunder. As the Dynasty declined the Sylltāji remained broken and quarrelsome, feuding amongst themselves for leadership. Until that is, the Ash Maiden came.
Five centuries since the Age of Fire dawned with the arrival of Syllus, a peasant girl died of wounds none could find, and lived for a purpose none could have seen. Born of the Eunii, the greatest of the eight tribes, she united them beneath her banner. She burned a swath through the Great Forest, all who opposed fell beneath the strength of her conviction. Through fire and steel the eight tribes were once again united. The First Flame had returned to the world, bearing conquest and death in its wake.
All the while the Straydor and Hastrijan remained locked in their cycle of combat. The Five Summer's War raged through the mountains of Vana, as both sought to control the vast wealth and history of the region. The rivers of blood ran through those ancient valleys, as mighty armies clashed and clashed until the could clash no more. The Straydor and Hastrijan broke themselves on each other's swords, and in the end only anarchy reigned in Vana. Petty princelings tasted independence for the first time as their lords retreated with their battered armies, and the Elves continued their millennia long feuds amongst themselves with nary a care to the affairs of men.
But the worst was yet to come for Straydor, as the ancient dynasty approached its twilight. Heydritch the Strong, Emperor of All Straydor. Who started the war to fight his enemies and prove his strength, died of illness in his sleep. Leaving his two sons to settle for themselves who would rule. Civil War raged in the Dynasty as brother fought brother for control of the throne, and a nation long suffering from war bled with new wounds. Perhaps in time the Straydor could have recovered but it was now, at the Dynasty's nadir, that the Ash Maiden struck.
The armies of the First Flame surged across the border, over-running the weakened border defenses with ease. Eager to repay the Straydor for their actions at the dawn of their age they cut a bloody swath through the Empire. But even now, in the Empire's final moments, the two brothers could not unite to save their Dynasty. They fought the Faith alone, and at the sword of the Ash Maiden, they died alone. With them died the Straydor, the end of an era was at hand. The Faith soon after seized the capital, and the Faith soon ran through the veins of the Straydor bureaucracy. The much-vaunted centralization of the Dynasty proved to be its undoing, and with it went the wealth and splendor of the Straydor.
With the wealth and power of the Straydor at her back the Ash Maiden fell upon her other neighbors with renewed vigor. The princelings of Vana were the first to fall, their paltry attempts to resist faltered in the face of the flame-forged armies of the newly-proclaimed Scarlet Empire. Most impressive of all was when the Daughter of the Ash Maiden assaulted the very gates of Hastrijan itself, and nearly broken them. But the ancient gates, held firm, and the Ash Maiden would be denied her prize. Regardless, the riches of Vana, long fought over, now were hers. Though bandits and other forces still remained, the forces of chaos had been driven back to the darkest corners of those ancient peaks.
Finally the Scarlet Empire turned its head east. The border princes of the East, long independent, fell beneath the might of the Empire. With them subjugated the Ash Maiden pushed further, swallowing the length of the Ruby River. They faced many foes on their trek east to the Kurlaks. The great clans of the Steppes blocked their way, but after the Kóngur Balder of the High Plains was defeated in single combat, the clans bent the knee or disappeared into the northern steppes. Even the vaunted mercenary armies of Qūr-dalan were no match for the might of the First Flame.
And with the fall of Qūr-dalan the Ash Maiden returned to Runāja with triumph. The Scarlet Empire stood triumphant. From the foot of the Kurlak mountains in the east to the gates of the Cerulean Sea facing the endless ocean to the west, the Two-Faced God held sway. Only mighty Hastrijan stood apart, biding their time beyond their walls of the steel and mortar beyond Vana, but they could not hope to challenge the might of the Scarlet Empire beyond themselves.
Thus began the Golden Age. With the Ash Maiden at its head, the Scarlet Empire was unparalleled. None dared challenge her rule, and many took the First Flame into their hearts. Peace and Prosperity returned to a land long torn by war, from the horrors of the Five Summers War, to the Scarlet Crusades that built the Empire. Those were in the past. For twenty years the Ash Maiden ruled from her throne of fire, and for twenty years the world knew peace.
But now, the Ash Maiden is gone. Left the lands that she built for parts unknown. And already cracks long hidden are showing their face. Chaos has returned to Vana, as bandits stalk the land and the Elvish feuds reach a new crescendo of blood and fear. The might of Straydor stirs as well, though the Faithful hold the yoke of the mighty beast, the people are not so inclined to their new faith. In the East, the nomads venture south, sensing weakness where the was once strength, and the border princes see opportunity to take their own destiny once again. And finally, in the capital the eight tribes once again have begun feuding between themselves. Now is the time for the Heirs of the Ash Maiden, her four daughters to take the role of their mother, to protect the Kingdom of God on Earth.
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Kingdom Information
- Location
- Massholistan
Economic Information:
Current Treasury: 16,162g
Current Income: 13,900g
- Taxes: 3,200g
- Trade: 8,400g
- Mining: 2,300g
Upkeep: 2,960g
Väljad Population: 14,123,523
Qūr-dalan Population: 117,744
Military Information:
Standing Forces:
- 1st Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Professional) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 350g) (ASSIGNED)
- 2nd Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Professional) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 350g) (ASSIGNED)
- 3rd Väljadi Legion: Strength 4,700/5,000 (Veteran) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 350g) (ASSIGNED)
- 4th Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Professional) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 5th Väljadi Legion: Strength 4,500/5,000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 6th Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 7th Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 8th Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 1st Horse Archer Brigade Strength 2,500/2,500 (Professional) (Mobility: 8) (Upkeep: 100g)
- 2nd Horse Archer Brigade Strength 2,500/2,500 (Professional) (Mobility: 8) (Upkeep: 100g)
- 3rd Horse Archer Brigade Strength 2,500/2,500 (Professional) (Mobility: 8) (Upkeep: 100g)
- 4th Horse Archer Brigade Strength 2,500/2,500 (Professional) (Mobility: 8) (Upkeep: 100g)
- 1st Flame Guard Regiment: Strength 500/500 (Professional) (Mobility: 6) (Upkeep: 200g)
- 2nd Flame Guard Regiment: Strength 500/500 (Professional) (Mobility: 6) (Upkeep: 200g)
Levies:
- Qūr-dalan City Guard: Strength 2000/2000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 10g)
- Qūr-dalan Militia: Strength *Unraised* (Green) (Upkeep: 0g)
Mercenaries:
- Haldan's Guard: Unit Strength: 750/750 (Mobility 8) (Veteran) (Upkeep 250g)
Other Sources of Upkeep:
- Andeszj's University: 500g/turn
- The Shadows: 300g/turn
Diplomatic Relations:
Vassal Relations:
Border Princes: Opinion: 63/100 (Rank 1) - The fractured petty lords and noble houses that control the rolling hills and verdant plains along the border with Runāja. They're rather upset with you about you asking questions about their more unsavory affairs, likely correctly fearing your looking for blackmail material as leverage to tighten your grip around them.
Nomadic Clans: Opinion: 3/100 (Rank 2) - You have managed to impress upon the various Horse Lords the strength of your rule. The Southern Clans willingly bend the knee to you, eeven contributing warriors to your cause. However, the northern clans are still wary and fiercely independent. They do not bend the knee easily, but many of them still at least respect you for your strength, and are unwilling to risk upsetting the status quo at the time being.
Merchant Houses: Opinion: 94/100 (Rank 1) - The Merchant Houses have grown fat off the trade you have restored to them, and they no longer are uncertain about your longevity. To them, you appear as strong as an oak, at least from within. Though should you get in the way of their making money, they'd probably become much less enthused with your rule.
Foreign Relations:
Vana (Valda): Opinion: 50/100 - You've never exactly seen eye to eye with your sister, and the feeling is mutual. Though you both love each other at the end, it's...difficult for the two of you to get along. That carries along to your diplomatic correspondence. They are terse and to the point, though you get the sense Valda is doing well, if annoyed at politics she has not offered to help you if need aid.
Runāja (Sauliā): Opinion 90/100 (Rank 2) - You love your sister Sauliā dearly, and the feeling is mutual. Under most circumstances you get the sense that she would drop nearly everything to come help you if you required it. Unfortunately, she's currently dealing with a very large and complicated mess, so her ability to help you is limited.
Ahervare (Elita): Opinion 95/100 (Rank 2) - You are good friends with Elita, and your correspondence with her reflects that. You get the sense she would be willing to help you out if you needed it, though seeing as Ahervare is on the other edge of the former Scarlet Empire from you, any aid would have difficulty getting to you in a timely fashion. Your meeting with her however raised new worries, not about your relationship, which is stronger than ever, but for her own safety.
Hastrijan: Opinion 45/100 (Rank 0) - Relations with Hastrijan are frosty, but with the land split between warring factions that does not mean much. Among those factions you have potential friends and bitter enemies.
- Twins Opinion: 55/100 (Rank 1)
- Bastard Opinion: 100/100 (Rank 1)
- Crown Prince Opinion: 40/100 (Rank 0)
- Baraz Opinion: 5/100 (Rank -1)
Religion in the Kingdom:
Religious Make-up of Qūr-dalan.
- 88% Sylltāji
- 5% Amalist
- 2% Northern Pantheons
- 0.5% The Sand Pantheons
- 4% Vasinu
- 0.5% Miscellaneous other faiths
Map (As of Turn 8):
Current Treasury: 16,162g
Current Income: 13,900g
- Taxes: 3,200g
- Trade: 8,400g
- Mining: 2,300g
Upkeep: 2,960g
Väljad Population: 14,123,523
Qūr-dalan Population: 117,744
Military Information:
Standing Forces:
- 1st Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Professional) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 350g) (ASSIGNED)
- 2nd Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Professional) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 350g) (ASSIGNED)
- 3rd Väljadi Legion: Strength 4,700/5,000 (Veteran) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 350g) (ASSIGNED)
- 4th Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Professional) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 5th Väljadi Legion: Strength 4,500/5,000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 6th Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 7th Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 8th Väljadi Legion: Strength 5,000/5,000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 50g)
- 1st Horse Archer Brigade Strength 2,500/2,500 (Professional) (Mobility: 8) (Upkeep: 100g)
- 2nd Horse Archer Brigade Strength 2,500/2,500 (Professional) (Mobility: 8) (Upkeep: 100g)
- 3rd Horse Archer Brigade Strength 2,500/2,500 (Professional) (Mobility: 8) (Upkeep: 100g)
- 4th Horse Archer Brigade Strength 2,500/2,500 (Professional) (Mobility: 8) (Upkeep: 100g)
- 1st Flame Guard Regiment: Strength 500/500 (Professional) (Mobility: 6) (Upkeep: 200g)
- 2nd Flame Guard Regiment: Strength 500/500 (Professional) (Mobility: 6) (Upkeep: 200g)
Levies:
- Qūr-dalan City Guard: Strength 2000/2000 (Green) (Mobility: 2) (Upkeep: 10g)
- Qūr-dalan Militia: Strength *Unraised* (Green) (Upkeep: 0g)
Mercenaries:
- Haldan's Guard: Unit Strength: 750/750 (Mobility 8) (Veteran) (Upkeep 250g)
Other Sources of Upkeep:
- Andeszj's University: 500g/turn
- The Shadows: 300g/turn
Diplomatic Relations:
Vassal Relations:
Border Princes: Opinion: 63/100 (Rank 1) - The fractured petty lords and noble houses that control the rolling hills and verdant plains along the border with Runāja. They're rather upset with you about you asking questions about their more unsavory affairs, likely correctly fearing your looking for blackmail material as leverage to tighten your grip around them.
Nomadic Clans: Opinion: 3/100 (Rank 2) - You have managed to impress upon the various Horse Lords the strength of your rule. The Southern Clans willingly bend the knee to you, eeven contributing warriors to your cause. However, the northern clans are still wary and fiercely independent. They do not bend the knee easily, but many of them still at least respect you for your strength, and are unwilling to risk upsetting the status quo at the time being.
Merchant Houses: Opinion: 94/100 (Rank 1) - The Merchant Houses have grown fat off the trade you have restored to them, and they no longer are uncertain about your longevity. To them, you appear as strong as an oak, at least from within. Though should you get in the way of their making money, they'd probably become much less enthused with your rule.
Foreign Relations:
Vana (Valda): Opinion: 50/100 - You've never exactly seen eye to eye with your sister, and the feeling is mutual. Though you both love each other at the end, it's...difficult for the two of you to get along. That carries along to your diplomatic correspondence. They are terse and to the point, though you get the sense Valda is doing well, if annoyed at politics she has not offered to help you if need aid.
Runāja (Sauliā): Opinion 90/100 (Rank 2) - You love your sister Sauliā dearly, and the feeling is mutual. Under most circumstances you get the sense that she would drop nearly everything to come help you if you required it. Unfortunately, she's currently dealing with a very large and complicated mess, so her ability to help you is limited.
Ahervare (Elita): Opinion 95/100 (Rank 2) - You are good friends with Elita, and your correspondence with her reflects that. You get the sense she would be willing to help you out if you needed it, though seeing as Ahervare is on the other edge of the former Scarlet Empire from you, any aid would have difficulty getting to you in a timely fashion. Your meeting with her however raised new worries, not about your relationship, which is stronger than ever, but for her own safety.
Hastrijan: Opinion 45/100 (Rank 0) - Relations with Hastrijan are frosty, but with the land split between warring factions that does not mean much. Among those factions you have potential friends and bitter enemies.
- Twins Opinion: 55/100 (Rank 1)
- Bastard Opinion: 100/100 (Rank 1)
- Crown Prince Opinion: 40/100 (Rank 0)
- Baraz Opinion: 5/100 (Rank -1)
Religion in the Kingdom:
Religious Make-up of Qūr-dalan.
- 88% Sylltāji
- 5% Amalist
- 2% Northern Pantheons
- 0.5% The Sand Pantheons
- 4% Vasinu
- 0.5% Miscellaneous other faiths
Map (As of Turn 8):
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Game Mechanics and Information
- Location
- Massholistan
Mechanics
This is a CKII Quest, so the usual rules will apply. You are currently playing as the youngest of four heirs to the Scarlet Empire, which was divided amongst after your mother disappeared. So now you're in charge of keeping your corner of the Empire together now that the main thing keeping it together has up and left. Also, your sisters who inherited the rest of it may want to try and re-unite the Empire with themselves at the head, so you might want to watch out for that.
Depending on where you start, you're going to have varying levels of existent dissatisfaction with your rule, unreliable or non-existent allies in securing that rule, and an incomplete picture of just what is going on in the province you are now ruling. Many, many people want to see you fail and the Scarlet Empire condemned to the history book, so it's your job to prevent that from happening.
The base mechanics are similar to other CKII Quests (outside the prologue). You are the ruler, but you cannot act by yourself everywhere. Assembling a trusted group of individuals to act in your stead is key, but beware, everyone has their own agenda, and they may or may not conflict with yours. These advisors form the bulk of our acting ability each turn, doing tasks for you to allow you to focus on other matters.
In addition, each character has a piety level and a opinion of you. Piety is good, signifying how much they believe in the theology of the Church of the First Flame and their servants. AKA Your Mother. AKA Your entire raison d'etre for ruling. Opinion is also important (Represented on a scale of 0-100), signifying your relationship with that person. Having similar goals with someone is all well and good, but if you hate each others guts maybe don't make them your spymaster. Probably will end badly.
Stat Approximations
Stats are an approximation of how good you are at a specific category of tasks and provide bonuses (or maluses) depending on your score in those categories.
0-9: Bad
10-14: Passable
15-19: Good
20-24: Great
25-29: Extraordinary
30-35: Legendary
35 is the cap for most humans, though certain, exceedingly rare individuals can surpass that level. Though it is uncertain if they are really human at all if they do so, or containing the spark of something more.
In addition, each character has a score for personal combat. Though influenced by a character base martial score, other traits and effects can also have an influence.
Weak or Novice Combatants: Mid 10's at best
Seasoned or Veteran Combatants: Mid-Low 20's
Highly Skilled Combatants: Low 30's
Storied Combatants: High 30's
Legendary Combatants: 40+
Individual combatants can rarely turn the tide of battle themselves, though legendary combatants certainly have tales to that affect. Their abilities exceed what normal humans are capable of by a drastic margin however, so if one were to re-appear word would spread quickly.
Military Combat:
There are three main types of military units you can utilize in Upon. Professional Troops, Levies and Mercenaries. Each occupies a role within your armies, and you will need to accurately judge when to commit specific types of forces in order to have the best success.
Professional Troops: As the name suggests, these are you standing troops. You always have them available, and they cost upkeep to maintain. However, they can gain experience, allowing them to grow and develop as tools as they fight battles and achieve victories or suffer defeats.
Levies: These troops are part time individuals that are raised in times of war and conflict to fight, and then they return to their fields and homes. They outside of some special circumstances, they do not require upkeep to maintain. However, they do not gain experience from the battles they participate in.
Mercenaries: These cutthroats function similarly to professional troops, however there are some key differences. They do not require any time to raise, instead negotiating for a contractual period. Once that contract is up, you lose their service. Otherwise, they perform identically to professional troops, gaining experience in the same manner.
Combat Mechanics: There are several factors that go into determining a battle. The numbers are the most obvious one. Outnumbering your opponents in terms of raw strength can be a distinct edge. But unit experience, the terrain, and the types of units involved also play a significant role, as well as the tactics of each side and the capability of each commander to carry out their tactics.
Experience level provides several bonuses to troops. More experienced units are able to carry out more advanced and complex tactics correctly and under the stress of battle. There are seven levels of experiences units can be. However for professional units, roughly 90% of all units will fall between Green and Veteran in terms of experience.
Wretched < Green < Professional < Bloodied < Veteran < Elite < Legendary
A higher experience level on a unit means that unit is less likely to break, which ties into unit strength. Units have specific health bars which indicate how effective they are. Full strength units have 100%, and so on and so forth. So a unit at 50% strength with have 50% of their total potential attack and defense.
Units break in combat if they lose a specific portion of their strength in that battle. This portion is dependent on their experience level. Professional units typically break if they lose more than 50% of their starting strength at the beginning of the battle for example. If a unit breaks their remaining strength is deducted from the army total. Additionally, if more than half of your units break in one battle round, a rout ensues, which unless the commanding general make a difficult check, results in an automatic loss.
This is a CKII Quest, so the usual rules will apply. You are currently playing as the youngest of four heirs to the Scarlet Empire, which was divided amongst after your mother disappeared. So now you're in charge of keeping your corner of the Empire together now that the main thing keeping it together has up and left. Also, your sisters who inherited the rest of it may want to try and re-unite the Empire with themselves at the head, so you might want to watch out for that.
Depending on where you start, you're going to have varying levels of existent dissatisfaction with your rule, unreliable or non-existent allies in securing that rule, and an incomplete picture of just what is going on in the province you are now ruling. Many, many people want to see you fail and the Scarlet Empire condemned to the history book, so it's your job to prevent that from happening.
The base mechanics are similar to other CKII Quests (outside the prologue). You are the ruler, but you cannot act by yourself everywhere. Assembling a trusted group of individuals to act in your stead is key, but beware, everyone has their own agenda, and they may or may not conflict with yours. These advisors form the bulk of our acting ability each turn, doing tasks for you to allow you to focus on other matters.
In addition, each character has a piety level and a opinion of you. Piety is good, signifying how much they believe in the theology of the Church of the First Flame and their servants. AKA Your Mother. AKA Your entire raison d'etre for ruling. Opinion is also important (Represented on a scale of 0-100), signifying your relationship with that person. Having similar goals with someone is all well and good, but if you hate each others guts maybe don't make them your spymaster. Probably will end badly.
Stat Approximations
Stats are an approximation of how good you are at a specific category of tasks and provide bonuses (or maluses) depending on your score in those categories.
0-9: Bad
10-14: Passable
15-19: Good
20-24: Great
25-29: Extraordinary
30-35: Legendary
35 is the cap for most humans, though certain, exceedingly rare individuals can surpass that level. Though it is uncertain if they are really human at all if they do so, or containing the spark of something more.
In addition, each character has a score for personal combat. Though influenced by a character base martial score, other traits and effects can also have an influence.
Weak or Novice Combatants: Mid 10's at best
Seasoned or Veteran Combatants: Mid-Low 20's
Highly Skilled Combatants: Low 30's
Storied Combatants: High 30's
Legendary Combatants: 40+
Individual combatants can rarely turn the tide of battle themselves, though legendary combatants certainly have tales to that affect. Their abilities exceed what normal humans are capable of by a drastic margin however, so if one were to re-appear word would spread quickly.
Military Combat:
There are three main types of military units you can utilize in Upon. Professional Troops, Levies and Mercenaries. Each occupies a role within your armies, and you will need to accurately judge when to commit specific types of forces in order to have the best success.
Professional Troops: As the name suggests, these are you standing troops. You always have them available, and they cost upkeep to maintain. However, they can gain experience, allowing them to grow and develop as tools as they fight battles and achieve victories or suffer defeats.
Levies: These troops are part time individuals that are raised in times of war and conflict to fight, and then they return to their fields and homes. They outside of some special circumstances, they do not require upkeep to maintain. However, they do not gain experience from the battles they participate in.
Mercenaries: These cutthroats function similarly to professional troops, however there are some key differences. They do not require any time to raise, instead negotiating for a contractual period. Once that contract is up, you lose their service. Otherwise, they perform identically to professional troops, gaining experience in the same manner.
Combat Mechanics: There are several factors that go into determining a battle. The numbers are the most obvious one. Outnumbering your opponents in terms of raw strength can be a distinct edge. But unit experience, the terrain, and the types of units involved also play a significant role, as well as the tactics of each side and the capability of each commander to carry out their tactics.
Experience level provides several bonuses to troops. More experienced units are able to carry out more advanced and complex tactics correctly and under the stress of battle. There are seven levels of experiences units can be. However for professional units, roughly 90% of all units will fall between Green and Veteran in terms of experience.
Wretched < Green < Professional < Bloodied < Veteran < Elite < Legendary
A higher experience level on a unit means that unit is less likely to break, which ties into unit strength. Units have specific health bars which indicate how effective they are. Full strength units have 100%, and so on and so forth. So a unit at 50% strength with have 50% of their total potential attack and defense.
Units break in combat if they lose a specific portion of their strength in that battle. This portion is dependent on their experience level. Professional units typically break if they lose more than 50% of their starting strength at the beginning of the battle for example. If a unit breaks their remaining strength is deducted from the army total. Additionally, if more than half of your units break in one battle round, a rout ensues, which unless the commanding general make a difficult check, results in an automatic loss.
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Prologue 1/3 - Chargen I
- Location
- Massholistan
You are the youngest of the heirs of the Scarlet Empire, a fact that you are constantly reminded of whenever you gaze upon the small circle of metal that signifies the weight bearing down on you. Alone in your room you pass the small crown of immaculate silver back and forth in your hands. You've done this so many times in the past two days you know every bump and ridge like the back of your hand, from the trio of small rubies on its face, to the engraving of your given name inside, marking this crown as yours.
You trace your finger along the looping curves of your name. It is:
[ ] Kaia, the echo, how your Mother knew from the moment you were born what you would look like, you will never know, but Her words proved true, as you grew it became clear you were the spitting image of your Mother.
[ ] Dalia, the lucky; even for the Daughter of God, to give birth at such an age as your Mother was almost unheard of, even rarer did the stories end happily, but here you are.
[ ] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
With a sigh you turn the crown over and place it back on your head. There are many crowns in the Empire, but few match this one in value, at least for what it represents. Only rivalled by its twins, worn by your siblings, each one signifies ownership of a fourth of the Empire. Which, for something so heavy in significance, sits so lightly on your head. You shudder at the thought, you still feel like this is a dream, or a nightmare, and any second now you are about to wake up.
But no, this is all too real, and now you stand to inherit:
[ ] Runāja: The former capital of the Scarlet Empire, and the ancestral home of the eight tribes. It is here where the Prophet Syllus first spread the word of the First Flame, and it was here that the Faith lived after his execution and ascension. Your Mother hailed from these lands, and it is here where you have lived all your life. Though not the richest, nor the most developed of the provinces, it holds boundless spiritual significance in the hearts of all who hold the Faith. A land of thick forests and rolling hills, it sits in the center of the Empire, radiating outward from Židinys, the former capital.
[ ] Vana: To the south lies Vana, once the borderlands between the mighty Hastrijan Empire and the Straydor Dynasty. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke their power in the region it devolved into infighting between petty princelings and tribes, before the armies of the Ash Maiden crushed them beneath her heel. But the the towering mountains and rough valleys of theses borderlands proved impossible to control fully, and rebels and bandits of all stripes still haunt these lands, now more than ever. Still, the lands are ripe with wealth, ruins of ancients cities dot these timeless spires, and veins of minerals burrow deep into the earth.
[ ] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
[ ] Ahervare: The Straydor Dynasty was once the hegemon of the West, a titan astride the entire continent. But oh, how the mighty have fallen. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke the armies of the Straydor and the Hastrijan, a succession crisis arose between the Emperor's two children. It was this time of crisis that heralded the arrival of the Ash Maiden, and by her sword the ancient empire crumbled. Much of the former dynastic possessions were stolen and repurposed by the Scarlet Empire, a new faith atop an old system. Now, the province of Ahervare is the richest and wealthiest in the Empire, though the Church of the Flame still struggles to catch on outside the upper levels of society.
The crown itself is mirrored by those ones worn by your sisters. You all are back in the capital for the first time in years. It is weird, you've known them for sixteen years, but now is the first time you feel that you'll see them for who they really are. You're all...equals now. Some would say rivals, but you shudder at the thought of fighting your sisters...well most of them. Though out of all of them the one you dread fighting the most is:
Sibling Relationship (1|2): Pick the one you have the best relationship (+20 Relations: Base 60)
[ ] Valda: Your eldest sister, born in the very dawn of the Scarlet Empire. You never saw her much as a child, for she was often out leading the armies of the Empire in your Mother's stead, where she earned no small reputation among allies and enemies alike. But when she would visit, you fondly remember spending hours seated on her lap, listening to tales of glory and enemies long since vanished. As you grew older, the enemies and the stories became less frequent, but that bond remained between the eldest and the youngest.
[ ] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[ ] Elita: Only a few years older than you, Elita could often be found with her nose in a book or old scroll, trying to decipher its meaning. You would often be the one to drag her out into the open, free from her room stacked high with musty old writing. Quite apart from the verbal barbs she would throw at you for interrupting her reading, she always followed you, even when she didn't have to. She was your constant companion through your childhood, tagging along as an older figure to keep you out of trouble, and maybe helped you learn a thing or two...maybe.
No, you don't know if you could bear to fight them. Others however, you...you could stomach the thought of seeing them taken down a peg:
Sibling Relationship (2|2): Your three siblings are the most important figures in your life, though for differing reasons. Pick the one you have the worst relationship with (-20 Relations: Base 60)
[ ] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned as she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[ ] Sauliā: The specter of your second eldest sister constantly followed around the halls of the Capital like a puppeteer. Determined to mold you into the sister that she desired, her hands were everywhere and inescapable. If you had friends she did not approve of they disappeared, clothes she did not like were burned. You were forced to attend balls and galas, wearing uncomfortable dresses and acting polite and proper with people who only looked down at her. Though eventually as you grew up you emerged from her shadow you still resent her.
[ ] Elita: Among the halls of Židinys there was only one person you really feared, and that was Elita. You tried to get along with her, you really did, but she made it too difficult. Every attempt was treated as an interruption unworthy of her time, and each time you suffered lashing from her acidic tongue. A snide comment here, and unflattering remark there, all designed to make you understand that she was smarter than you.
You trace your finger along the looping curves of your name. It is:
[ ] Kaia, the echo, how your Mother knew from the moment you were born what you would look like, you will never know, but Her words proved true, as you grew it became clear you were the spitting image of your Mother.
[ ] Dalia, the lucky; even for the Daughter of God, to give birth at such an age as your Mother was almost unheard of, even rarer did the stories end happily, but here you are.
[ ] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
With a sigh you turn the crown over and place it back on your head. There are many crowns in the Empire, but few match this one in value, at least for what it represents. Only rivalled by its twins, worn by your siblings, each one signifies ownership of a fourth of the Empire. Which, for something so heavy in significance, sits so lightly on your head. You shudder at the thought, you still feel like this is a dream, or a nightmare, and any second now you are about to wake up.
But no, this is all too real, and now you stand to inherit:
[ ] Runāja: The former capital of the Scarlet Empire, and the ancestral home of the eight tribes. It is here where the Prophet Syllus first spread the word of the First Flame, and it was here that the Faith lived after his execution and ascension. Your Mother hailed from these lands, and it is here where you have lived all your life. Though not the richest, nor the most developed of the provinces, it holds boundless spiritual significance in the hearts of all who hold the Faith. A land of thick forests and rolling hills, it sits in the center of the Empire, radiating outward from Židinys, the former capital.
[ ] Vana: To the south lies Vana, once the borderlands between the mighty Hastrijan Empire and the Straydor Dynasty. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke their power in the region it devolved into infighting between petty princelings and tribes, before the armies of the Ash Maiden crushed them beneath her heel. But the the towering mountains and rough valleys of theses borderlands proved impossible to control fully, and rebels and bandits of all stripes still haunt these lands, now more than ever. Still, the lands are ripe with wealth, ruins of ancients cities dot these timeless spires, and veins of minerals burrow deep into the earth.
[ ] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
[ ] Ahervare: The Straydor Dynasty was once the hegemon of the West, a titan astride the entire continent. But oh, how the mighty have fallen. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke the armies of the Straydor and the Hastrijan, a succession crisis arose between the Emperor's two children. It was this time of crisis that heralded the arrival of the Ash Maiden, and by her sword the ancient empire crumbled. Much of the former dynastic possessions were stolen and repurposed by the Scarlet Empire, a new faith atop an old system. Now, the province of Ahervare is the richest and wealthiest in the Empire, though the Church of the Flame still struggles to catch on outside the upper levels of society.
The crown itself is mirrored by those ones worn by your sisters. You all are back in the capital for the first time in years. It is weird, you've known them for sixteen years, but now is the first time you feel that you'll see them for who they really are. You're all...equals now. Some would say rivals, but you shudder at the thought of fighting your sisters...well most of them. Though out of all of them the one you dread fighting the most is:
Sibling Relationship (1|2): Pick the one you have the best relationship (+20 Relations: Base 60)
[ ] Valda: Your eldest sister, born in the very dawn of the Scarlet Empire. You never saw her much as a child, for she was often out leading the armies of the Empire in your Mother's stead, where she earned no small reputation among allies and enemies alike. But when she would visit, you fondly remember spending hours seated on her lap, listening to tales of glory and enemies long since vanished. As you grew older, the enemies and the stories became less frequent, but that bond remained between the eldest and the youngest.
[ ] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[ ] Elita: Only a few years older than you, Elita could often be found with her nose in a book or old scroll, trying to decipher its meaning. You would often be the one to drag her out into the open, free from her room stacked high with musty old writing. Quite apart from the verbal barbs she would throw at you for interrupting her reading, she always followed you, even when she didn't have to. She was your constant companion through your childhood, tagging along as an older figure to keep you out of trouble, and maybe helped you learn a thing or two...maybe.
No, you don't know if you could bear to fight them. Others however, you...you could stomach the thought of seeing them taken down a peg:
Sibling Relationship (2|2): Your three siblings are the most important figures in your life, though for differing reasons. Pick the one you have the worst relationship with (-20 Relations: Base 60)
[ ] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned as she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[ ] Sauliā: The specter of your second eldest sister constantly followed around the halls of the Capital like a puppeteer. Determined to mold you into the sister that she desired, her hands were everywhere and inescapable. If you had friends she did not approve of they disappeared, clothes she did not like were burned. You were forced to attend balls and galas, wearing uncomfortable dresses and acting polite and proper with people who only looked down at her. Though eventually as you grew up you emerged from her shadow you still resent her.
[ ] Elita: Among the halls of Židinys there was only one person you really feared, and that was Elita. You tried to get along with her, you really did, but she made it too difficult. Every attempt was treated as an interruption unworthy of her time, and each time you suffered lashing from her acidic tongue. A snide comment here, and unflattering remark there, all designed to make you understand that she was smarter than you.
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[X] Dalia, the lucky; even for the Daughter of God, to give birth at such an age as your Mother was almost unheard of, even rarer did the stories end happily, but here you are.
[X] Vana: To the south lies Vana, once the borderlands between the mighty Hastrijan Empire and the Straydor Dynasty. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke their power in the region it devolved into infighting between petty princelings and tribes, before the armies of the Ash Maiden crushed them beneath her heel. But the the towering mountains and rough valleys of theses borderlands proved impossible to control fully, and rebels and bandits of all stripes still haunt these lands, now more than ever. Still, the lands are ripe with wealth, ruins of ancients cities dot these timeless spires, and veins of minerals burrow deep into the earth.
[X] Valda: Your eldest sister, born in the very dawn of the Scarlet Empire. You never saw her much as a child, for she was often out leading the armies of the Empire in your Mother's stead, where she earned no small reputation among allies and enemies alike. But when she would visit, you fondly remember spending hours seated on her lap, listening to tales of glory and enemies long since vanished. As you grew older, the enemies and the stories became less frequent, but that bond remained between the eldest and the youngest.
[X] Sauliā: The specter of your second eldest sister constantly followed around the halls of the Capital like a puppeteer. Determined to mold you into the sister that she desired, her hands were everywhere and inescapable. If you had friends she did not approve of they disappeared, clothes she did not like were burned. You were forced to attend balls and galas, wearing uncomfortable dresses and acting polite and proper with people who only looked down at her. Though eventually as you grew up you emerged from her shadow you still resent her.
[X] Vana: To the south lies Vana, once the borderlands between the mighty Hastrijan Empire and the Straydor Dynasty. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke their power in the region it devolved into infighting between petty princelings and tribes, before the armies of the Ash Maiden crushed them beneath her heel. But the the towering mountains and rough valleys of theses borderlands proved impossible to control fully, and rebels and bandits of all stripes still haunt these lands, now more than ever. Still, the lands are ripe with wealth, ruins of ancients cities dot these timeless spires, and veins of minerals burrow deep into the earth.
[X] Valda: Your eldest sister, born in the very dawn of the Scarlet Empire. You never saw her much as a child, for she was often out leading the armies of the Empire in your Mother's stead, where she earned no small reputation among allies and enemies alike. But when she would visit, you fondly remember spending hours seated on her lap, listening to tales of glory and enemies long since vanished. As you grew older, the enemies and the stories became less frequent, but that bond remained between the eldest and the youngest.
[X] Sauliā: The specter of your second eldest sister constantly followed around the halls of the Capital like a puppeteer. Determined to mold you into the sister that she desired, her hands were everywhere and inescapable. If you had friends she did not approve of they disappeared, clothes she did not like were burned. You were forced to attend balls and galas, wearing uncomfortable dresses and acting polite and proper with people who only looked down at her. Though eventually as you grew up you emerged from her shadow you still resent her.
LucidProp
Pocky Eating MafiaDoka
[X] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
[X] Väljad
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching asyou burned. The fear eventually faded, butthe rift between you and her never did.
Valjad for cultural interactions, and Illona and Valda because I like the dynamic between the sickly sister scared of her more, ah, resolute sibling who really wants to set an example and desires only the best for her siblings but just sucks at making others want to follow her footsteps. Saulia and her rumors don't exactly help.
[X] Väljad
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching asyou burned. The fear eventually faded, butthe rift between you and her never did.
Valjad for cultural interactions, and Illona and Valda because I like the dynamic between the sickly sister scared of her more, ah, resolute sibling who really wants to set an example and desires only the best for her siblings but just sucks at making others want to follow her footsteps. Saulia and her rumors don't exactly help.
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LinkOnScepter
The One who Strangles Concepts to death
- Location
- Interwebs
[X] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
Underdog story is best story.
[X] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
Trade = Money. Money = More Opportunities for improvement. Improvement = Curbstomping everyone else.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
With us as weak as we are, we're gonna need someone who can teach us how to prepare for the cloak and dagger things that life in court brings to the table.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
I feel like this could be an interesting dynamic. The sickly younger sister is afraid of the straight forward soldier sister, while finding a friend in the sneaky rogue like sister.
Underdog story is best story.
[X] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
Trade = Money. Money = More Opportunities for improvement. Improvement = Curbstomping everyone else.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
With us as weak as we are, we're gonna need someone who can teach us how to prepare for the cloak and dagger things that life in court brings to the table.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
I feel like this could be an interesting dynamic. The sickly younger sister is afraid of the straight forward soldier sister, while finding a friend in the sneaky rogue like sister.
[X] Kaia, the echo, how your Mother knew from the moment you were born what you would look like, you will never know, but Her words proved true, as you grew it became clear you were the spitting image of your Mother.
[X] Ahervare: The Straydor Dynasty was once the hegemon of the West, a titan astride the entire continent. But oh, how the mighty have fallen. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke the armies of the Straydor and the Hastrijan, a succession crisis arose between the Emperor's two children. It was this time of crisis that heralded the arrival of the Ash Maiden, and by her sword the ancient empire crumbled. Much of the former dynastic possessions were stolen and repurposed by the Scarlet Empire, a new faith atop an old system. Now, province of Ahervare is the richest and wealthiest in the Empire, though the Church of the Flame still struggles to catch on outside the upper levels of society.
[X] Elita: Only a few years older than you, Elita could often be found with her nose in a book or old scroll, trying to decipher its meaning. You would often be the one to drag her out into the open, free from her room stacked high with musty old writing. Quite apart from the verbal barbs she would throw at you for interrupting her reading, she always followed you, even when she didn't have to. She was your constant companion through your childhood, tagging along as an older figure to keep you out of trouble, and maybe helped you learn a thing or two...maybe.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[X] Ahervare: The Straydor Dynasty was once the hegemon of the West, a titan astride the entire continent. But oh, how the mighty have fallen. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke the armies of the Straydor and the Hastrijan, a succession crisis arose between the Emperor's two children. It was this time of crisis that heralded the arrival of the Ash Maiden, and by her sword the ancient empire crumbled. Much of the former dynastic possessions were stolen and repurposed by the Scarlet Empire, a new faith atop an old system. Now, province of Ahervare is the richest and wealthiest in the Empire, though the Church of the Flame still struggles to catch on outside the upper levels of society.
[X] Elita: Only a few years older than you, Elita could often be found with her nose in a book or old scroll, trying to decipher its meaning. You would often be the one to drag her out into the open, free from her room stacked high with musty old writing. Quite apart from the verbal barbs she would throw at you for interrupting her reading, she always followed you, even when she didn't have to. She was your constant companion through your childhood, tagging along as an older figure to keep you out of trouble, and maybe helped you learn a thing or two...maybe.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[X] Kaia, the echo, how your Mother knew from the moment you were born what you would look like, you will never know, but Her words proved true, as you grew it became clear you were the spitting image of your Mother.
[X] Väljad
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[X] Väljad
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
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- Location
- USA
[X] LinkOnScepter
That is my favorite choices for which sister to be closest and most distant from. Starting area capital or plains works for me.
That is my favorite choices for which sister to be closest and most distant from. Starting area capital or plains works for me.
[X] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
[X] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
Pretty much for the same reasons as LinkOnScepter.
Kaia might be left within the shadow of her mother until she proves herself and between Dalia or Illona, I prefer the latter.
For Valjad — Trade, opportunities, land and without that much internal problems to start with.
Courtly intrigue is such a pain to deal with and the older sister's distant relationship is more of a misunderstanding rather than anything else.
[X] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
Pretty much for the same reasons as LinkOnScepter.
Kaia might be left within the shadow of her mother until she proves herself and between Dalia or Illona, I prefer the latter.
For Valjad — Trade, opportunities, land and without that much internal problems to start with.
Courtly intrigue is such a pain to deal with and the older sister's distant relationship is more of a misunderstanding rather than anything else.
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LucidProp
Pocky Eating MafiaDoka
Force of habit. Fixed.
[X] Dalia, the lucky; even for the Daughter of God, to give birth at such an age as your Mother was almost unheard of, even rarer did the stories end happily, but here you are.
[X] Vana: To the south lies Vana, once the borderlands between the mighty Hastrijan Empire and the Straydor Dynasty. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke their power in the region it devolved into infighting between petty princelings and tribes, before the armies of the Ash Maiden crushed them beneath her heel. But the the towering mountains and rough valleys of theses borderlands proved impossible to control fully, and rebels and bandits of all stripes still haunt these lands, now more than ever. Still, the lands are ripe with wealth, ruins of ancients cities dot these timeless spires, and veins of minerals burrow deep into the earth.
[X] Valda: Your eldest sister, born in the very dawn of the Scarlet Empire. You never saw her much as a child, for she was often out leading the armies of the Empire in your Mother's stead, where she earned no small reputation among allies and enemies alike. But when she would visit, you fondly remember spending hours seated on her lap, listening to tales of glory and enemies long since vanished. As you grew older, the enemies and the stories became less frequent, but that bond remained between the eldest and the youngest.
[X] Sauliā: The specter of your second eldest sister constantly followed around the halls of the Capital like a puppeteer. Determined to mold you into the sister that she desired, her hands were everywhere and inescapable. If you had friends she did not approve of they disappeared, clothes she did not like were burned. You were forced to attend balls and galas, wearing uncomfortable dresses and acting polite and proper with people who only looked down at her. Though eventually as you grew up you emerged from her shadow you still resent her.
[X] Vana: To the south lies Vana, once the borderlands between the mighty Hastrijan Empire and the Straydor Dynasty. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke their power in the region it devolved into infighting between petty princelings and tribes, before the armies of the Ash Maiden crushed them beneath her heel. But the the towering mountains and rough valleys of theses borderlands proved impossible to control fully, and rebels and bandits of all stripes still haunt these lands, now more than ever. Still, the lands are ripe with wealth, ruins of ancients cities dot these timeless spires, and veins of minerals burrow deep into the earth.
[X] Valda: Your eldest sister, born in the very dawn of the Scarlet Empire. You never saw her much as a child, for she was often out leading the armies of the Empire in your Mother's stead, where she earned no small reputation among allies and enemies alike. But when she would visit, you fondly remember spending hours seated on her lap, listening to tales of glory and enemies long since vanished. As you grew older, the enemies and the stories became less frequent, but that bond remained between the eldest and the youngest.
[X] Sauliā: The specter of your second eldest sister constantly followed around the halls of the Capital like a puppeteer. Determined to mold you into the sister that she desired, her hands were everywhere and inescapable. If you had friends she did not approve of they disappeared, clothes she did not like were burned. You were forced to attend balls and galas, wearing uncomfortable dresses and acting polite and proper with people who only looked down at her. Though eventually as you grew up you emerged from her shadow you still resent her.
- Location
- nz
[X] Dalia, the lucky; even for the Daughter of God, to give birth at such an age as your Mother was almost unheard of, even rarer did the stories end happily, but here you are.
[X] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[X] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
NuclearConsensus
Herald of the Thorned One
- Location
- the Philippines
[X] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
[X] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[X] Väljad: To the east lies the vast expanse of rolling plains of Väljad, stretching all the way to the Kurlak Mountains in the far east. By the largest province of the Empire, and also the most unpopulated. Apart from the former princedoms that dotted the land on the border with Runāja much of the land is uninhabited except for the nomadic tribes that roam through the far steppe. However, what cities do exist are along the Ruby River, the vast network of caravan routes that pass through the Kurlak mountains, bringing treasures and oddities from the East. Foremost of all is Qūr-dalan, the great junction of East and West.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[X] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
[X] Väljad
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching asyou burned. The fear eventually faded, butthe rift between you and her never did.
[X] Väljad
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching asyou burned. The fear eventually faded, butthe rift between you and her never did.
Random Member
Gardener of Human Happiness
- Location
- Behind You
[X] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
[X] Vana: To the south lies Vana, once the borderlands between the mighty Hastrijan Empire and the Straydor Dynasty. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke their power in the region it devolved into infighting between petty princelings and tribes, before the armies of the Ash Maiden crushed them beneath her heel. But the the towering mountains and rough valleys of theses borderlands proved impossible to control fully, and rebels and bandits of all stripes still haunt these lands, now more than ever. Still, the lands are ripe with wealth, ruins of ancients cities dot these timeless spires, and veins of minerals burrow deep into the earth.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
[X] Vana: To the south lies Vana, once the borderlands between the mighty Hastrijan Empire and the Straydor Dynasty. After the disastrous Five Summer's War broke their power in the region it devolved into infighting between petty princelings and tribes, before the armies of the Ash Maiden crushed them beneath her heel. But the the towering mountains and rough valleys of theses borderlands proved impossible to control fully, and rebels and bandits of all stripes still haunt these lands, now more than ever. Still, the lands are ripe with wealth, ruins of ancients cities dot these timeless spires, and veins of minerals burrow deep into the earth.
[X] Sauliā: Born soon after Valda, Sauliā served as the face of your Mother in the capital. A true lady of the court, she was your guardian in the twisting halls of Židinys, your secret confidant in your youth. You spent hours gossiping with her about the servants and their petty squabbles, about the various nobles who came and went, seeking power and prestige in the court of the Daughter of God. Looking back now, you can see she was protecting you then too, from mistakes and problems you may have caused in your innocence. The Court of the Scarlet Empire was not a nice place, you can see that now with fresh eyes, but then...then it seemed as safe as ever.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
Dark Abstraction
Infrequent Participant
- Location
- United States
[X] Kaia
[X] Vana
[X] Valda: Your eldest sister, born in the very dawn of the Scarlet Empire. You never saw her much as a child, for she was often out leading the armies of the Empire in your Mother's stead, where she earned no small reputation among allies and enemies alike. But when she would visit, you fondly remember spending hours seated on her lap, listening to tales of glory and enemies long since vanished. As you grew older, the enemies and the stories became less frequent, but that bond remained between the eldest and the youngest.
[X] Sauliā: The specter of your second eldest sister constantly followed around the halls of the Capital like a puppeteer. Determined to mold you into the sister that she desired, her hands were everywhere and inescapable. If you had friends she did not approve of they disappeared, clothes she did not like were burned. You were forced to attend balls and galas, wearing uncomfortable dresses and acting polite and proper with people who only looked down at her. Though eventually as you grew up you emerged from her shadow you still resent her.
[X] Vana
[X] Valda: Your eldest sister, born in the very dawn of the Scarlet Empire. You never saw her much as a child, for she was often out leading the armies of the Empire in your Mother's stead, where she earned no small reputation among allies and enemies alike. But when she would visit, you fondly remember spending hours seated on her lap, listening to tales of glory and enemies long since vanished. As you grew older, the enemies and the stories became less frequent, but that bond remained between the eldest and the youngest.
[X] Sauliā: The specter of your second eldest sister constantly followed around the halls of the Capital like a puppeteer. Determined to mold you into the sister that she desired, her hands were everywhere and inescapable. If you had friends she did not approve of they disappeared, clothes she did not like were burned. You were forced to attend balls and galas, wearing uncomfortable dresses and acting polite and proper with people who only looked down at her. Though eventually as you grew up you emerged from her shadow you still resent her.
- Location
- Massholistan
So it has come to my attention, mostly by @Tempera yelling at me over the Staff IRC how "these words mean nothing to me" (Thank you for that BTW, feedback is always helpful and I needed the slap), that I may have gone a little bit over-board with the lack of context for your choices here. Now to an extent that was intentional, since you are playing as a sheltered young persons whose main interactions with the outside world come from rumors she hears in court and the stories and lessons she is taught by her tutors. But I realize now that I left some fairly important context out from these choices. So I have updated the second threadmark with information about the founding of the Scarlet Empire and basically everything your character knows about how it got where it is today.
Both of the options for each sister are reasonable interpretations of their characters, it's safe to say that both views that the youngest daughter can have are true in some sense.
Well, there's more to power in the ancient/medieval world than just trade, but Qūr-dalan is quite a jewel yes. Though it bears mentioning that the bulk of that trade does not end up there. Hastrijan and Ahervare are the most common destinations for goods from the East, simply by virtue of (currently) being the largest concentrations of wealth pretty much anywhere you know about.
Sure, let's go with that.
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- Location
- scrabbling
[X] Kaia, the echo, how your Mother knew from the moment you were born what you would look like, you will never know, but Her words proved true, as you grew it became clear you were the spitting image of your Mother.
[X] Runāja
[X] Elita: Only a few years older than you, Elita could often be found with her nose in a book or old scroll, trying to decipher its meaning. You would often be the one to drag her out into the open, free from her room stacked high with musty old writing. Quite apart from the verbal barbs she would throw at you for interrupting her reading, she always followed you, even when she didn't have to. She was your constant companion through your childhood, tagging along as an older figure to keep you out of trouble, and maybe helped you learn a thing or two...maybe.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
Or something.
Seems like an interesting continent to run around on. Vaguely reminiscent of various conquerings throughout history, though.
[X] Runāja
[X] Elita: Only a few years older than you, Elita could often be found with her nose in a book or old scroll, trying to decipher its meaning. You would often be the one to drag her out into the open, free from her room stacked high with musty old writing. Quite apart from the verbal barbs she would throw at you for interrupting her reading, she always followed you, even when she didn't have to. She was your constant companion through your childhood, tagging along as an older figure to keep you out of trouble, and maybe helped you learn a thing or two...maybe.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
Or something.
Seems like an interesting continent to run around on. Vaguely reminiscent of various conquerings throughout history, though.
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FriedIce
The Authentic Fake
- Location
- Hyperreality
I have picked this set of choices carefully to give us the best chance of succeeding in the civil wars to come (lol jk, I literally just picked four options at random. No way that can go wrong, right @Crilltic?)
[X] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
[X] Runāja: The former capital of the Scarlet Empire, and the ancestral home of the eight tribes. It is here where the Prophet Syllus first spread the word of the First Flame, and it was here that the Faith lived after his execution and ascension. Your Mother hailed from these lands, and it is here where you have lived all your life. Though not the richest, nor the most developed of the provinces, it holds boundless spiritual significance in the hearts of all who hold the Faith. A land of thick forests and rolling hills, it sits in the center of the Empire, radiating outward from Židinys, the former capital.
[X] Elita: Only a few years older than you, Elita could often be found with her nose in a book or old scroll, trying to decipher its meaning. You would often be the one to drag her out into the open, free from her room stacked high with musty old writing. Quite apart from the verbal barbs she would throw at you for interrupting her reading, she always followed you, even when she didn't have to. She was your constant companion through your childhood, tagging along as an older figure to keep you out of trouble, and maybe helped you learn a thing or two...maybe.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned as she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
More seriously, the combination of sickly, left the spiritual centre with no real power attached, a good relationship with the smart sister and a bad one with the martial sister feels like an interesting dynamic with which to proceed in the quest.
[X] Illona, the uncertain, they say you you were frail and sickly as a babe, you almost died several times, but each time you managed to live through the sickness.
[X] Runāja: The former capital of the Scarlet Empire, and the ancestral home of the eight tribes. It is here where the Prophet Syllus first spread the word of the First Flame, and it was here that the Faith lived after his execution and ascension. Your Mother hailed from these lands, and it is here where you have lived all your life. Though not the richest, nor the most developed of the provinces, it holds boundless spiritual significance in the hearts of all who hold the Faith. A land of thick forests and rolling hills, it sits in the center of the Empire, radiating outward from Židinys, the former capital.
[X] Elita: Only a few years older than you, Elita could often be found with her nose in a book or old scroll, trying to decipher its meaning. You would often be the one to drag her out into the open, free from her room stacked high with musty old writing. Quite apart from the verbal barbs she would throw at you for interrupting her reading, she always followed you, even when she didn't have to. She was your constant companion through your childhood, tagging along as an older figure to keep you out of trouble, and maybe helped you learn a thing or two...maybe.
[X] Valda: Born long before you, Valda was a woman full and grown when you took your first steps. She was a distant presence in your life, much like your Mother. Unlike your Mother, there was no soft side to Valda that you can see. The first time you saw her was at the execution of a traitor the realm. She lit the pyre beneath man, and he screamed and burned as she just stood and watched, silent and unmoving. That night you had nightmares, a demon in armor watching as you burned. The fear eventually faded, but the rift between you and her never did.
More seriously, the combination of sickly, left the spiritual centre with no real power attached, a good relationship with the smart sister and a bad one with the martial sister feels like an interesting dynamic with which to proceed in the quest.
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- Location
- Massholistan
Alright, so voting will remain open until 8pm EST, and the next part of the prologue will be posted sometime around nine. If you are wondering the current tally is as follows:
Name:
Illona (The Uncertain): 9
Kaia (The Echo): 4
Dalia (The Lucky): 3
Inheritance:
Väljad: 8
Vana: 5
Runāja: 2
Ahervare: 1
Favorite Sister:
Sauliā: 11
Valda: 3
Elita: 2
Distanced Sister:
Valda: 13
Sauliā: 3
Elita: 0
Name:
Illona (The Uncertain): 9
Kaia (The Echo): 4
Dalia (The Lucky): 3
Inheritance:
Väljad: 8
Vana: 5
Runāja: 2
Ahervare: 1
Favorite Sister:
Sauliā: 11
Valda: 3
Elita: 2
Distanced Sister:
Valda: 13
Sauliā: 3
Elita: 0