Asmodemus
Subversive Element
So many of our naval forces resigning due to the smell of wet dog.
Who Needs Harmony?: An MLP Empire Quest
- Thread starter Questor
- Start date
So many of our naval forces resigning due to the smell of wet dog.
Keani
C̵͍̈t̷̼̓h̴̀ͅŭ̶̹l̴̡̈u̸̫͗ ̶̟͌F̵͚́h̶̠͊t̶͍͌ă̷̺g̴̯̊n̷
- Location
- R͈̥̲̦͍͓͗̽̈́̚'̞ͧ͛ͥ̄l̫̰̤̖̽̐y͍̲ͧ̒́̐̌̀e̪͆h̸̩͔̟ͣ͐͐̎ͤ
Seaponies want. Sheer meme power needed.
heh, honestly I thought the yaks would number a million.
I actually kinda like wet dog smell.
- Location
- USA
Stewardship
- Location
- A house
I really want to know how that holiday would evolve in the future. Would it turn into just something of a quite respect like vetrans day here? Or something a bit more, like halloween, the fourth of july, or the day of the dead, given it might just be our first actual holiday?
Like, theres lots you could do, given tradition passing down and possible merging with the coincidence of it happening at winters end, and the coming of spring. Young griffons making small paper lanterns to ward off winter's biting chill and introduce spring again (or as a reference to the presence of fire's usefulness in that war), shooting off fireworks for cannon fire, a metaphor for attacking the cold, visiting the graves of family with others, maybe a military ceremony? Some of that might seem a bit off right now, but in the future....
Makes me wish we could import cherry blossoms from neighpon, if they have em. Them blooming would line up really nicely with said holiday.
- Location
- Existence
I'd say a bit like Veterans Day but also celebration as well
Keani
C̵͍̈t̷̼̓h̴̀ͅŭ̶̹l̴̡̈u̸̫͗ ̶̟͌F̵͚́h̶̠͊t̶͍͌ă̷̺g̴̯̊n̷
- Location
- R͈̥̲̦͍͓͗̽̈́̚'̞ͧ͛ͥ̄l̫̰̤̖̽̐y͍̲ͧ̒́̐̌̀e̪͆h̸̩͔̟ͣ͐͐̎ͤ
If it's ordering like one minor statue and giving a speech than personal. If it's a right and proper grand memorial and ceremony as the fallen deserve then stewardship is what I'd say
- Location
- California
You could have made it an issue of all 3 categories where each subtly change the outcome, but only one can be chosen.
As a personal action it would be a modest monument which results in a change within Garret himself as well as some people can become personal inspired by it. This might allow future characters and advisors get some Trait like: Saw The Memorial of Red Pass. [Insert Character Name] gets bonus to moral in the face of overwhelming odds.
As a stewardship action it becomes a large monument honoring of all three species who fought against Sombre. The sight could cause people to recognize despite the dangers there are good people beyond the nation; not just shadow elder horrors.
As a martial action, we have a military ceremony which resonates with people. It will eventually grow into a national holiday as people work to preserve the memory.
- Location
- Back in Cali
I would say a military action like Rook said each would be different but the military ceremony has the most potential to have a larger impact on our people's psyche and values.
- Location
- Back in Cali
Yep, we have some infrastructure and expansion options we need to take. The new blast furnace and the production of coal coke is the major military one. With that the upkeep for gear should go down due to the cheaper high-quality steel we can make. It should also make cannons both cheaper and easier to develop further.
We also have at the very least three stewardship options the lumberjack, swamp draining, and western frontier. The lumberjack should make building stuff cheaper as well as give us more income. The swamp and frontier are needed so we can expand our food production and population.
Research is kind of a toss up I would wait until we have the blast furnace before we start trying to improve the cannons since we need better steel to make lighter and stronger cannons anyways.
The rest of the options will have to be seen before we make a choice since there should be many new and old options available.
Last edited:
- Location
- Back in Cali
Most likely. But if we get a no voting period this time we might be able to discuss things so we don't have a bunch of plans that are basically the same.
- Location
- Space~
Welp. Just when I thought the MLP fanfic couldn't get better, I find this gem.
Watched.
Watched.
Tithed_Verse
Vainglorious
- Location
- Iowa
- Pronouns
- They/Them
Turn 12: Recovery
- Location
- Maryland
"I'm Pregnant."
You nearly spit out your drink. You turn to your wife, coughing and pounding on your chest as she simply gives you that wry smile you've become so accustomed to seeing over the past few years. At the other end of the breakfast table (which is technically also the dinner and feast table...semantics) Gawain smiles ecstatically.
"New sibling, yay!"
Next to Gawain, from her height-chair (something Genevieve had kitbashed together as a gift....you should really get her something nicer in return than a raise) Gwyndlyn picks up on the mood in the room and begins giggling in the way young children often do.
You finally catch your breath and give your wife a long-suffering look.
"You waited until I was mid-sip to spring that on me didn't you?"
Her smile only widens as Gawain laughs. You sigh, smiling wearily. Confound it, you love this family. You may be the most powerful Griffon in the Empire but it's moments like these that you truly treasure. Ancestors know you and your family could use a laugh.
It's been a somber month since the battle of Redstone Pass. There have been a lot of funerals, a lot of wakes. Makeshift memorials for the dead have been established in towns and villages across the Empire, and already calls are being made for a much larger, suitable memorial....both for the recent dead and future dead. Everyone knows that this war isn't over. You weren't the only one who saw the Dark King turn into smoke and fly away. Everyone knows he'll be back eventually. A lot more people are going to die before the threat is finally past. You know this, as does the public. The response has been the same across the board: grim resolve. Your people have survived Discord and the beasts of the forest, they are no strangers to adversity.
Still, despite the troubles, life goes on. Repairs are made, flowers bloom, and children are born. You take great comfort in that, and in moments like these that you get to share with your family.
Gabriella gains "Pregnant" status.
Martial: Gustav has been...somber lately. Those who don't know him as well as you do don't notice, but he's not as spirited as he used to be. You get the impression that he now drinks, not out of revelry, but out of sorrow. As Imperial Martial, he knew many of those who perished in the Winter War. Still, he remains dedicated to his work, and there are no shortage of mourners in your Empire this year. (Two Actions per Turn)
[ ] Big Sticks: The mobile Ballistae proved instrumental in your victory at the Battle of Wingbardy. Clearly they are a valuable battlefield asset. Build a few more. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: +10 mobile Ballistae added to army.
[ ] Hans, Get the Flamethrower: The flame projectors proved to be one of the most important assets of the Winter War, being the only viable method of destroying the shadow-beasts, and serving as excellent counters to the abominations. Now that the Troll-Busters' contract has expired, it's probably a good idea to build a few more of these devices for yourself. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: +4 Static Flame Projectors
[ ] The West Wall-Watchtowers: You have neighbors to your West. Large, strong, and surprisingly fast neighbors that are used to living off the land and crossing great distances in a relatively short period of time. They don't seem hostile at the moment, but it couldn't hurt to take precautions. The Black Cliffs of Aquileia serve as a natural barrier, but one that could be crossed by the Yaks (or another foe) if they really wanted to. It only makes sense to fortify this barrier and make it more difficult for any Yak raiders or warbands to cross into your core territory. You can start with some watchtowers. These small posts won't be able to prevent any sizable force from crossing the border, but their vigil will prevent a surprise attack and give you some warning in the event of a hostile mountain crossing. Cost: 1000. Time: Two Years. Reward: Western Border Watchtowers built, removes possibility of surprise attacks, may discourage raids into core territory.
[ ] The Peregrine Line-Watchtowers: You snagged a victory and prevented an invasion of your country by the skin of your beak, and it was a costly victory at that. You're not stupid enough to think that you've seen the last of that foe forever, and if you have to worry about another invasion you're going to need serious fortifications along your Southern Border. Your military leaders have drawn up a multi-year step-by-step plan to turn the Peregrine mountains into a nearly impassible fortress. The first step, much like the plan to fortify the Black Cliffs, begins with watchtowers. Well, technically they're watchtowers but they're more like miniature forts designed to act as signaling stations. The squadrons of soldiers assigned to these defenses won't be able to repel any significant assaults, but they'll discourage infiltration and raids into your territory, and give vital warning in the event of another border assault. And they will serve as the foundation for a much larger and more impressive set of fortifications. Cost: 1000. Time: Two Years. Reward: Southern Border Watchtowers built, removes possibility of surprise attacks, may discourage raids into core territory.
[ ] Licking Wounds: Your Forces were ravaged at the battle of Redstone Pass. Thousands of Griffons, Dogs and Yaks were killed in the defense of their homes. The enemy may have been defeated, but the Dark King is still out there, and you've no idea what state he or his slave-kingdom are in. If he returns before you can rebuild your forces, you won't stand a chance. The casualty rates from the battle were a shock to your people...but they know that any war against your Southern Neighbor is a war for the very survival of your culture. If you call for citizens to fill the ranks of your army, you know that they shall answer. Cost: 3560. Time: One Year. Reward: Army returned to Pre-War Numbers.
Diplomacy: Elva's department has been receiving a lot more attention as of late. The much-appreciated assistance from the Yak Clans has emphasized the importance of a dedicated foreign office, and the invasion from the Southlands has made the public anxious to find allies against the monsters and warlords of the world. If Elva has begun to feel any pressure from the increased attention, she doesn't show it, carrying on as she always has. (One Action per Turn)
[ ] The Neighborly Thing to Do: The Yaks came to your assistance when the shadow king sought to invade your lands, and their warriors fought and died alongside your own. You don't know if you can repay them for that, but you can try. Gather some steel armor, weapons, tools, and assorted trade goods, and distribute them to the four clans. Such an action should soften the blow of losing so many of their number, and foster better relations with the clans, reinforcing the importance of unity against threats to your mutual security. Cost: 1000. Time: One Year. Reward: Better relations with Yak Clans, Yaks gain access to steel tools, armor and weapons. Chance of Success: 70%
[ ] Steepe Trade Caravans: Establishing trade with Nomads is a difficult prospect, though a potentially lucrative one. Elva proposes sending a few caravans of enterprising Merchants out into the Steepes to show off their wares and gauge interest. The Yaks will get a look at the goods we have to offer, and hopefully we'll get a look at whatever they consider valuable enough to barter with. Of course, these caravans will require guards to protect them, and translators to help them strike deals with any potential customers. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: Information on Yak Markets and Trade Goods, Potential for Trade Income. Chance of Success: 70%.
[ ] Eastern Expedition: You don't really know anything about them, but they haven't done anything to harm your people, which already places them a league ahead of your Southern Neighbor. Send a ship and some volunteer diplomats to make contact and establish some sort of diplomatic relations. At the very least, it would be nice to know that you don't have to worry about a war on two fronts. Cost: 300. Time: One Year. Reward: Contact made with Eastern Neighbors. Chance of Success: 80%
Stewardship: Frida has arguably been the least impacted by the war. Mind you, she's still had to deal with labor shortages in some areas after the militia suffered such horrendous casualties, but that's been the extent of it. Despite everything, she has retained her upbeat and optimistic demeanor, something you can really appreciate these days. (Two Actions per Turn)
[ ] Tomb of Fallen Heroes: Thousands of Imperial citizens died in defense of their homeland at Redstone Pass. And, the world being the dangerous place that it is, thousands more are likely to give their lives in service to the Empire at some point in the near-future. Such sacrifice deserves more than a simple headstone or makeshift memorial in a town square. It deserves a monument. A hall of ancestors greater than any other in the Empire, a building like the great temples of the ancient Gods. The honored dead deserve no less. Cost: 800. Time: One Year. Reward: War Memorial Constructed, Bonus to morale and certain combat rolls.
[ ] I'm a Lumberjack and I'm OK: Were it not for the fact that they were infested with monsters, the forests of your kingdom would provide a nearly inexhaustible supply of lumber. That's not to say that your people don't cut down trees, it's just that they've never really done it on a large scale for fear of angering the things living in the woods. If your kingdom is going to grow and prosper, you'll need that timber. Gather some soldiers and have them assist with the construction of water-powered sawmills and woodcutting camps. Cost: 150. Time: One Year. Reward: Logging income. Chance of Success: 70%
[ ] Imperial Brew: This is something that could be...controversial. Archimedes' shroomshine has been exceedingly popular with the Imperial Citizenry. However, given it's relatively recent invention, all the people brewing it are doing so on a small scale. Someone in Rosewing's Department raised the idea that, instead of having a bunch of independent brewers making a bunch of wildly disparate concoctions in their basements, the government could contract them and arrange the sale and distribution of the alcohol itself, ensuring consistent quality and netting a tidy profit in the process. Of course, some people might not approve of the government selling alcohol, or taking control of the market in such a fashion. Cost: 400. Time: 1 Year. Reward: Government Controlled Breweries. Gain Alcohol Sales Income. May raise Peasant Opinion. May lower Peasant Opinion. 50% chance of either outcome.
[ ] Settling the Western Frontier: While the Western Steepes are largely inhospitable and unsuitable for permanent settlement, a significant portion of the land beyond the Black Cliffs is quite similar to your core territory. The Yaks don't appear to have any claims on these stretches of forest, and they may hold resources that could add to the economy. Even if they don't, it would be nice to have some settlements outside of your heartland to make interaction with the Yaks easier, or as a buffer should they prove hostile. Subsidize the construction of a few towns and encourage some of your people to establish homesteads on the unsettled land. Cost: 1000. Time: Two Years. Reward: New Western Settlements Established, Additional Income.
[ ] Steam Pumped Land Drainage: Due to the mountainous and heavily forested nature of the Griffonlands, arable land is often at a premium. If one wishes to establish a farm, one must clear the land of trees (and the beasts that live among them), or risk trying to farm on rocks. There are a handful of places in the Empire that would be prime farmland were they not flooded or otherwise too wet to plant crops on. Ordinarily these lands would be impossible to drain, but Archimedes' new Steam Pump offers a new potential option for land drainage. It'll be expensive and time consuming, but the extra agricultural output just might be worth it. Cost: 500. Time: Two Years. Reward: Water-logged areas cleared, additional farming income.
Learning: Archimedes has been poring over the information salvaged from the battlefield these past few weeks, seeking to learn all he can about the Southern enemy and brainstorming new ways to fight them off should they return. Genevieve prefers to focus on more domestic advancements, and has recently found a way to use liquid fire in specially made lamps as an improved source of light, a significant improvement over candles or torches which has already made her a household name across the Empire. You're glad to see such dedication from both of them. (Two Actions per Turn)
[ ] Coke-Fired Blast Furnaces: Iron and Steel are the lifeblood of your economy, constituting everything from tools to building materials to weapons. However, they are difficult to produce in vast amounts. The only reason your people have been able to do so thus far is because of the sheer amount of ore available to you in your mountains, and the number of mining and smelting operations currently underway as a result. Genevieve has come up with a potential solution to allow for greater production of these metals. Using coal that has been treated in much the same way wood is treated to produce charcoal, a new form of dense, cleaner-burning fuel can be used to heat a new kind of massive, vertical smelting furnace the size of a building with a much greater output of metals. Naturally, this will be expensive, but Genevieve states that the increased metal production will be necessary to allow for greater innovation and widespread implementation of new devices, not to mention the smelting of this new "Orichalcum". Cost: 600. Time: Two Years. Reward: Increased Iron/Steel Production, new Learning Actions Unlocked, Can now Smelt Orichalcum.
[ ] Cannon Foundry: Archimedes' new type of explosive siege weapons proved highly effective in combat. Unfortunately, Archimedes tells you that if you're going to be building large numbers of the things with any hope of consistent, reliable performance, you're going to have to build a dedicated foundry and associated tools for their production and future improvement. After seeing a few of his sketches for variations and improvements on the current design, you see his point. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: Cannon Foundry Constructed, additional Learning and Martial Actions Unlocked.
[ ] Cannon Ships: Archimedes' new cannons are much more powerful than the old bolt-throwers, if more volatile and expensive. Unfortunately, small scale tests have shown that your current Cog designs are not suited for the weight of the new weapons, or the force of their recoil. You'll need to design a new class of ship from the ground up to accommodate these new weapons. Cost: 100. Reward: New Ship Class Designed.
[ ] Gun-Cotton: Black Powder weapons are powerful, but they have some flaws, one of the most significant of which is the massive amount of smoke they produce. Archimedes believes he may have stumbled upon a solution. When paper or cloth is soaked in aqua fortis and sulfuric acid and then dried, the resulting material produces more than three times the force of a similar volume of blackpowder with much less smoke. Of course, finding a way to mass produce the stuff and apply it to your cannons is a difficult task, one that Archimedes will need time and funding to perform. Cost: 300. Time: One Year. Reward: Gun-Cotton developed, +5 to all Cannon Rolls.
Intrigue: Ravenburg is as stoic and calmly professional as ever. If he's been at all affected by the War and it's aftermath, he doesn't show it. Apart from his sudden fixation upon potential happenings south of the border, he's the same as he ever was. You actually find that quite reassuring. (One Action per Turn)
[ ] Into the Storm: The Blizzard may have ended for you, but it still rages over the border. Despite the scouting expedition sent last year that gathered the vital intelligence needed to halt the invasion, you still know very little about your new enemy, or the land it calls home. You know this war isn't over, and if you're going to have any hope of winning it, you'll need intel on what exactly is waiting for you on the other side of the Peregrines. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: New Intel on Sombra/Crystal Empire. Chance of Success: 40%
[ ] Yakity Yak: The Yaks showcased their strength when they fought alongside you and yours at the Battle of Redstone Pass. They proved to be great allies...but they could also become a powerful enemy if things were to go wrong. The war has stirred up the Yaks' cultural and political landscape. You need to know what exactly is going on in the lands of your Western
neighbor, and whether you should be concerned. Cost: 300. Time: One Year. Reward: New Intel on Yak Clans and the Fallout from the Winter War, possibility of new Intrigue Options. Chance of Success: 60%
Personal: You refuse to let your duties as Emperor take up every moment of your day. (Two Actions per Turn)
[ ] Getting Swole: One of the numerous reasons you refused to fight Brochard was that he was so much stronger than you. A blade and a suit of armor mitigated that advantage a great deal, but it didn't remove it completely. You trained with your wife not long ago, and that training showed results, but the results weren't quite as big an improvement as you'd hoped. If you're going to be an Emperor worthy of the title, you need to be strong, especially if you're going to be throwing yourself into harms way like you did in the Winter War. Have Gabriella put you through an even more grueling fitness regimen and see if you can't improve your physique a bit more. Just because she's pregnant doesn't mean she can't put you through your paces! Cost: 0. Time: One Year. Reward: Increased martial stat, chance to upgrade Toned Trait, chance to improve Gabriella's opinion of you. Chance of Success: 55%
[ ] Small Blades: The world is a dangerous place, especially for Griffons in positions of power. Your son is one such individual. In this world, one of the greatest gifts you can bestow upon someone is something they can defend themselves with. Your son is young, but you could commission him a blade for when he is a bit older. Not just any hunk of steel, but a dagger worthy of a Prince. Hell, while you're at it, make one for Gwyndlyn. She'll definitely outgrow it at some point, but it's probably a good idea to give her one too, just in case. And might as well make one for your as of yet unborn child as well, get that out of the way...your home is going to have a lot of blades in it. Cost: 50. Time: One Year. Reward: Master-Crafted Daggers for Gawain, Gwyndlyn and your future child.
[ ] Combing the Archives: The Imperial Archives hold many secrets and much wisdom. It contains not only reams upon reams of records from recent years, but also what scraps of information have been recovered from the ruins of Pre-Discord civilization. Perhaps some of these decaying scraps of old parchment could contain bits of knowledge relevant to you in the present? Cost: 0. Time: One Year. Reward: Chance to gain information and knowledge from Pre-Discord Records.
You nearly spit out your drink. You turn to your wife, coughing and pounding on your chest as she simply gives you that wry smile you've become so accustomed to seeing over the past few years. At the other end of the breakfast table (which is technically also the dinner and feast table...semantics) Gawain smiles ecstatically.
"New sibling, yay!"
Next to Gawain, from her height-chair (something Genevieve had kitbashed together as a gift....you should really get her something nicer in return than a raise) Gwyndlyn picks up on the mood in the room and begins giggling in the way young children often do.
You finally catch your breath and give your wife a long-suffering look.
"You waited until I was mid-sip to spring that on me didn't you?"
Her smile only widens as Gawain laughs. You sigh, smiling wearily. Confound it, you love this family. You may be the most powerful Griffon in the Empire but it's moments like these that you truly treasure. Ancestors know you and your family could use a laugh.
It's been a somber month since the battle of Redstone Pass. There have been a lot of funerals, a lot of wakes. Makeshift memorials for the dead have been established in towns and villages across the Empire, and already calls are being made for a much larger, suitable memorial....both for the recent dead and future dead. Everyone knows that this war isn't over. You weren't the only one who saw the Dark King turn into smoke and fly away. Everyone knows he'll be back eventually. A lot more people are going to die before the threat is finally past. You know this, as does the public. The response has been the same across the board: grim resolve. Your people have survived Discord and the beasts of the forest, they are no strangers to adversity.
Still, despite the troubles, life goes on. Repairs are made, flowers bloom, and children are born. You take great comfort in that, and in moments like these that you get to share with your family.
Gabriella gains "Pregnant" status.
Martial: Gustav has been...somber lately. Those who don't know him as well as you do don't notice, but he's not as spirited as he used to be. You get the impression that he now drinks, not out of revelry, but out of sorrow. As Imperial Martial, he knew many of those who perished in the Winter War. Still, he remains dedicated to his work, and there are no shortage of mourners in your Empire this year. (Two Actions per Turn)
[ ] Big Sticks: The mobile Ballistae proved instrumental in your victory at the Battle of Wingbardy. Clearly they are a valuable battlefield asset. Build a few more. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: +10 mobile Ballistae added to army.
[ ] Hans, Get the Flamethrower: The flame projectors proved to be one of the most important assets of the Winter War, being the only viable method of destroying the shadow-beasts, and serving as excellent counters to the abominations. Now that the Troll-Busters' contract has expired, it's probably a good idea to build a few more of these devices for yourself. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: +4 Static Flame Projectors
[ ] The West Wall-Watchtowers: You have neighbors to your West. Large, strong, and surprisingly fast neighbors that are used to living off the land and crossing great distances in a relatively short period of time. They don't seem hostile at the moment, but it couldn't hurt to take precautions. The Black Cliffs of Aquileia serve as a natural barrier, but one that could be crossed by the Yaks (or another foe) if they really wanted to. It only makes sense to fortify this barrier and make it more difficult for any Yak raiders or warbands to cross into your core territory. You can start with some watchtowers. These small posts won't be able to prevent any sizable force from crossing the border, but their vigil will prevent a surprise attack and give you some warning in the event of a hostile mountain crossing. Cost: 1000. Time: Two Years. Reward: Western Border Watchtowers built, removes possibility of surprise attacks, may discourage raids into core territory.
[ ] The Peregrine Line-Watchtowers: You snagged a victory and prevented an invasion of your country by the skin of your beak, and it was a costly victory at that. You're not stupid enough to think that you've seen the last of that foe forever, and if you have to worry about another invasion you're going to need serious fortifications along your Southern Border. Your military leaders have drawn up a multi-year step-by-step plan to turn the Peregrine mountains into a nearly impassible fortress. The first step, much like the plan to fortify the Black Cliffs, begins with watchtowers. Well, technically they're watchtowers but they're more like miniature forts designed to act as signaling stations. The squadrons of soldiers assigned to these defenses won't be able to repel any significant assaults, but they'll discourage infiltration and raids into your territory, and give vital warning in the event of another border assault. And they will serve as the foundation for a much larger and more impressive set of fortifications. Cost: 1000. Time: Two Years. Reward: Southern Border Watchtowers built, removes possibility of surprise attacks, may discourage raids into core territory.
[ ] Licking Wounds: Your Forces were ravaged at the battle of Redstone Pass. Thousands of Griffons, Dogs and Yaks were killed in the defense of their homes. The enemy may have been defeated, but the Dark King is still out there, and you've no idea what state he or his slave-kingdom are in. If he returns before you can rebuild your forces, you won't stand a chance. The casualty rates from the battle were a shock to your people...but they know that any war against your Southern Neighbor is a war for the very survival of your culture. If you call for citizens to fill the ranks of your army, you know that they shall answer. Cost: 3560. Time: One Year. Reward: Army returned to Pre-War Numbers.
Diplomacy: Elva's department has been receiving a lot more attention as of late. The much-appreciated assistance from the Yak Clans has emphasized the importance of a dedicated foreign office, and the invasion from the Southlands has made the public anxious to find allies against the monsters and warlords of the world. If Elva has begun to feel any pressure from the increased attention, she doesn't show it, carrying on as she always has. (One Action per Turn)
[ ] The Neighborly Thing to Do: The Yaks came to your assistance when the shadow king sought to invade your lands, and their warriors fought and died alongside your own. You don't know if you can repay them for that, but you can try. Gather some steel armor, weapons, tools, and assorted trade goods, and distribute them to the four clans. Such an action should soften the blow of losing so many of their number, and foster better relations with the clans, reinforcing the importance of unity against threats to your mutual security. Cost: 1000. Time: One Year. Reward: Better relations with Yak Clans, Yaks gain access to steel tools, armor and weapons. Chance of Success: 70%
[ ] Steepe Trade Caravans: Establishing trade with Nomads is a difficult prospect, though a potentially lucrative one. Elva proposes sending a few caravans of enterprising Merchants out into the Steepes to show off their wares and gauge interest. The Yaks will get a look at the goods we have to offer, and hopefully we'll get a look at whatever they consider valuable enough to barter with. Of course, these caravans will require guards to protect them, and translators to help them strike deals with any potential customers. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: Information on Yak Markets and Trade Goods, Potential for Trade Income. Chance of Success: 70%.
[ ] Eastern Expedition: You don't really know anything about them, but they haven't done anything to harm your people, which already places them a league ahead of your Southern Neighbor. Send a ship and some volunteer diplomats to make contact and establish some sort of diplomatic relations. At the very least, it would be nice to know that you don't have to worry about a war on two fronts. Cost: 300. Time: One Year. Reward: Contact made with Eastern Neighbors. Chance of Success: 80%
Stewardship: Frida has arguably been the least impacted by the war. Mind you, she's still had to deal with labor shortages in some areas after the militia suffered such horrendous casualties, but that's been the extent of it. Despite everything, she has retained her upbeat and optimistic demeanor, something you can really appreciate these days. (Two Actions per Turn)
[ ] Tomb of Fallen Heroes: Thousands of Imperial citizens died in defense of their homeland at Redstone Pass. And, the world being the dangerous place that it is, thousands more are likely to give their lives in service to the Empire at some point in the near-future. Such sacrifice deserves more than a simple headstone or makeshift memorial in a town square. It deserves a monument. A hall of ancestors greater than any other in the Empire, a building like the great temples of the ancient Gods. The honored dead deserve no less. Cost: 800. Time: One Year. Reward: War Memorial Constructed, Bonus to morale and certain combat rolls.
[ ] I'm a Lumberjack and I'm OK: Were it not for the fact that they were infested with monsters, the forests of your kingdom would provide a nearly inexhaustible supply of lumber. That's not to say that your people don't cut down trees, it's just that they've never really done it on a large scale for fear of angering the things living in the woods. If your kingdom is going to grow and prosper, you'll need that timber. Gather some soldiers and have them assist with the construction of water-powered sawmills and woodcutting camps. Cost: 150. Time: One Year. Reward: Logging income. Chance of Success: 70%
[ ] Imperial Brew: This is something that could be...controversial. Archimedes' shroomshine has been exceedingly popular with the Imperial Citizenry. However, given it's relatively recent invention, all the people brewing it are doing so on a small scale. Someone in Rosewing's Department raised the idea that, instead of having a bunch of independent brewers making a bunch of wildly disparate concoctions in their basements, the government could contract them and arrange the sale and distribution of the alcohol itself, ensuring consistent quality and netting a tidy profit in the process. Of course, some people might not approve of the government selling alcohol, or taking control of the market in such a fashion. Cost: 400. Time: 1 Year. Reward: Government Controlled Breweries. Gain Alcohol Sales Income. May raise Peasant Opinion. May lower Peasant Opinion. 50% chance of either outcome.
[ ] Settling the Western Frontier: While the Western Steepes are largely inhospitable and unsuitable for permanent settlement, a significant portion of the land beyond the Black Cliffs is quite similar to your core territory. The Yaks don't appear to have any claims on these stretches of forest, and they may hold resources that could add to the economy. Even if they don't, it would be nice to have some settlements outside of your heartland to make interaction with the Yaks easier, or as a buffer should they prove hostile. Subsidize the construction of a few towns and encourage some of your people to establish homesteads on the unsettled land. Cost: 1000. Time: Two Years. Reward: New Western Settlements Established, Additional Income.
[ ] Steam Pumped Land Drainage: Due to the mountainous and heavily forested nature of the Griffonlands, arable land is often at a premium. If one wishes to establish a farm, one must clear the land of trees (and the beasts that live among them), or risk trying to farm on rocks. There are a handful of places in the Empire that would be prime farmland were they not flooded or otherwise too wet to plant crops on. Ordinarily these lands would be impossible to drain, but Archimedes' new Steam Pump offers a new potential option for land drainage. It'll be expensive and time consuming, but the extra agricultural output just might be worth it. Cost: 500. Time: Two Years. Reward: Water-logged areas cleared, additional farming income.
Learning: Archimedes has been poring over the information salvaged from the battlefield these past few weeks, seeking to learn all he can about the Southern enemy and brainstorming new ways to fight them off should they return. Genevieve prefers to focus on more domestic advancements, and has recently found a way to use liquid fire in specially made lamps as an improved source of light, a significant improvement over candles or torches which has already made her a household name across the Empire. You're glad to see such dedication from both of them. (Two Actions per Turn)
[ ] Coke-Fired Blast Furnaces: Iron and Steel are the lifeblood of your economy, constituting everything from tools to building materials to weapons. However, they are difficult to produce in vast amounts. The only reason your people have been able to do so thus far is because of the sheer amount of ore available to you in your mountains, and the number of mining and smelting operations currently underway as a result. Genevieve has come up with a potential solution to allow for greater production of these metals. Using coal that has been treated in much the same way wood is treated to produce charcoal, a new form of dense, cleaner-burning fuel can be used to heat a new kind of massive, vertical smelting furnace the size of a building with a much greater output of metals. Naturally, this will be expensive, but Genevieve states that the increased metal production will be necessary to allow for greater innovation and widespread implementation of new devices, not to mention the smelting of this new "Orichalcum". Cost: 600. Time: Two Years. Reward: Increased Iron/Steel Production, new Learning Actions Unlocked, Can now Smelt Orichalcum.
[ ] Cannon Foundry: Archimedes' new type of explosive siege weapons proved highly effective in combat. Unfortunately, Archimedes tells you that if you're going to be building large numbers of the things with any hope of consistent, reliable performance, you're going to have to build a dedicated foundry and associated tools for their production and future improvement. After seeing a few of his sketches for variations and improvements on the current design, you see his point. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: Cannon Foundry Constructed, additional Learning and Martial Actions Unlocked.
[ ] Cannon Ships: Archimedes' new cannons are much more powerful than the old bolt-throwers, if more volatile and expensive. Unfortunately, small scale tests have shown that your current Cog designs are not suited for the weight of the new weapons, or the force of their recoil. You'll need to design a new class of ship from the ground up to accommodate these new weapons. Cost: 100. Reward: New Ship Class Designed.
[ ] Gun-Cotton: Black Powder weapons are powerful, but they have some flaws, one of the most significant of which is the massive amount of smoke they produce. Archimedes believes he may have stumbled upon a solution. When paper or cloth is soaked in aqua fortis and sulfuric acid and then dried, the resulting material produces more than three times the force of a similar volume of blackpowder with much less smoke. Of course, finding a way to mass produce the stuff and apply it to your cannons is a difficult task, one that Archimedes will need time and funding to perform. Cost: 300. Time: One Year. Reward: Gun-Cotton developed, +5 to all Cannon Rolls.
Intrigue: Ravenburg is as stoic and calmly professional as ever. If he's been at all affected by the War and it's aftermath, he doesn't show it. Apart from his sudden fixation upon potential happenings south of the border, he's the same as he ever was. You actually find that quite reassuring. (One Action per Turn)
[ ] Into the Storm: The Blizzard may have ended for you, but it still rages over the border. Despite the scouting expedition sent last year that gathered the vital intelligence needed to halt the invasion, you still know very little about your new enemy, or the land it calls home. You know this war isn't over, and if you're going to have any hope of winning it, you'll need intel on what exactly is waiting for you on the other side of the Peregrines. Cost: 400. Time: One Year. Reward: New Intel on Sombra/Crystal Empire. Chance of Success: 40%
[ ] Yakity Yak: The Yaks showcased their strength when they fought alongside you and yours at the Battle of Redstone Pass. They proved to be great allies...but they could also become a powerful enemy if things were to go wrong. The war has stirred up the Yaks' cultural and political landscape. You need to know what exactly is going on in the lands of your Western
neighbor, and whether you should be concerned. Cost: 300. Time: One Year. Reward: New Intel on Yak Clans and the Fallout from the Winter War, possibility of new Intrigue Options. Chance of Success: 60%
Personal: You refuse to let your duties as Emperor take up every moment of your day. (Two Actions per Turn)
[ ] Getting Swole: One of the numerous reasons you refused to fight Brochard was that he was so much stronger than you. A blade and a suit of armor mitigated that advantage a great deal, but it didn't remove it completely. You trained with your wife not long ago, and that training showed results, but the results weren't quite as big an improvement as you'd hoped. If you're going to be an Emperor worthy of the title, you need to be strong, especially if you're going to be throwing yourself into harms way like you did in the Winter War. Have Gabriella put you through an even more grueling fitness regimen and see if you can't improve your physique a bit more. Just because she's pregnant doesn't mean she can't put you through your paces! Cost: 0. Time: One Year. Reward: Increased martial stat, chance to upgrade Toned Trait, chance to improve Gabriella's opinion of you. Chance of Success: 55%
[ ] Small Blades: The world is a dangerous place, especially for Griffons in positions of power. Your son is one such individual. In this world, one of the greatest gifts you can bestow upon someone is something they can defend themselves with. Your son is young, but you could commission him a blade for when he is a bit older. Not just any hunk of steel, but a dagger worthy of a Prince. Hell, while you're at it, make one for Gwyndlyn. She'll definitely outgrow it at some point, but it's probably a good idea to give her one too, just in case. And might as well make one for your as of yet unborn child as well, get that out of the way...your home is going to have a lot of blades in it. Cost: 50. Time: One Year. Reward: Master-Crafted Daggers for Gawain, Gwyndlyn and your future child.
[ ] Combing the Archives: The Imperial Archives hold many secrets and much wisdom. It contains not only reams upon reams of records from recent years, but also what scraps of information have been recovered from the ruins of Pre-Discord civilization. Perhaps some of these decaying scraps of old parchment could contain bits of knowledge relevant to you in the present? Cost: 0. Time: One Year. Reward: Chance to gain information and knowledge from Pre-Discord Records.
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Damn it we really need to get a second diplomacy action. Three different choice and I could argue every single one is the most worth it.