Flight of birds - Revision history

Matt: /* The Witan */

2026-04-09T11:57:31Z

The Witan

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:57, 9 April 2026
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	The mystics have asked the Witan to decide what subject they should turn their attention to this season. They want the Witan to determine what problem is most pressing, so that the mystics can use their insight and wisdom to find an [[opportunity]] to influence the situation. By gaining the backing of the Witan, the mystics predict they will gain wider support for their goals - instead of just the mystics, it becomes a problem that everyone can work on. Working together the mystics will lead efforts to [[appraisal\|appraise]] the single problem named by the Witan. They will do everything possible to find at least one solution, presenting any ideas or possibilities they find to the nation in time for the following summit, just as they did this season when looking to see how Wintermark might best raise a new Kallavesi army.		The mystics have asked the Witan to decide what subject they should turn their attention to this season. They want the Witan to determine what problem is most pressing, so that the mystics can use their insight and wisdom to find an [[opportunity]] to influence the situation. By gaining the backing of the Witan, the mystics predict they will gain wider support for their goals - instead of just the mystics, it becomes a problem that everyone can work on. Working together the mystics will lead efforts to [[appraisal\|appraise]] the single problem named by the Witan. They will do everything possible to find at least one solution, presenting any ideas or possibilities they find to the nation in time for the following summit, just as they did this season when looking to see how Wintermark might best raise a new Kallavesi army.
	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=EmmaStanton.jpg\|align=left\|caption=Wilda\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=EmmaStanton.jpg\|align=left\|caption=Wilda\|width=300}}</div>
	There are significant limits on what the mystics can achieve even with the help of Wintermark. Any appraisal they perform will likely provide interesting or useful insight into a situation or problem, but it's not likely to produce the sheer volume of opportunities the Prognosticator's Office provides. It will certainly provide at least one opportunity to engage with the matter they have been asked to look into, but it's unlikely to produce an entire wind of fortune the way a full appraisal does each season. Crucially the problem needs to be one that is relevant to Wintermark ~~and which they can investigate within Wintermark's borders~~. Wintermarkers have neither the time nor the inclination to study a ~~problem outside~~ the nation.		There are significant limits on what the mystics can achieve even with the help of Wintermark. Any appraisal they perform will likely provide interesting or useful insight into a situation or problem, but it's not likely to produce the sheer volume of opportunities the Prognosticator's Office provides. It will certainly provide at least one opportunity to engage with the matter they have been asked to look into, but it's unlikely to produce an entire wind of fortune the way a full appraisal does each season.

			Crucially the problem needs to be one that is relevant to Wintermark. Wintermarkers have neither the time nor the inclination to study the problems of other nations. That restriction is cultural in nature, not geographical. A question was raised if the mystics might investigate Tsirku in some way - and they are happy to confirm that they consider Sydanjaa to be "Wintermark", given that it is a key part of the nation's cultural traditions. What the mystics cannot and won't do is travel far abroad to investigate things that have nothing to do with Wintermark.

	To provide wise counsel, the crucial thing the mystics would need the Witan to provide is a concise outline of the problem that Wintermark wants to address. Anyone who brings an idea for an appraisal for the mystics before the Witan should ensure that they can articulate a clear idea of what the problem is and avoid details like how the problem should be addressed or how it should be solved. If the Witan favours their option, then Wilda will pass those details to the mystics.		To provide wise counsel, the crucial thing the mystics would need the Witan to provide is a concise outline of the problem that Wintermark wants to address. Anyone who brings an idea for an appraisal for the mystics before the Witan should ensure that they can articulate a clear idea of what the problem is and avoid details like how the problem should be addressed or how it should be solved. If the Witan favours their option, then Wilda will pass those details to the mystics.

Hailmur: /* No Half Measures */

2026-04-09T11:39:13Z

No Half Measures

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:39, 9 April 2026
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	Leofric, one of the mystics of Ishal, was inspired by the flight of birds, to venture deep into the Sovevann as he sought inspiration to answer the Raven Seer's riddle. There he discovered the dwindling remnants of a once great dwelling, the Hall of the Soturi. Once home to a banner of Kallavesi warriors, they marched to war with [[Empress Aenea]] and never came back. The walls of the Hall bore the Soturi's oath, "A hero who commits their all never loses, they know only victory or death." The oath epitomised the Soturi's approach to battle - once a course of action was chosen they must commit themselves to it without reservation. They were fierce exponents of the Kallavesi warrior tradition, committing themselves fully to the fight with no half-measures, no looking back.		Leofric, one of the mystics of Ishal, was inspired by the flight of birds, to venture deep into the Sovevann as he sought inspiration to answer the Raven Seer's riddle. There he discovered the dwindling remnants of a once great dwelling, the Hall of the Soturi. Once home to a banner of Kallavesi warriors, they marched to war with [[Empress Aenea]] and never came back. The walls of the Hall bore the Soturi's oath, "A hero who commits their all never loses, they know only victory or death." The oath epitomised the Soturi's approach to battle - once a course of action was chosen they must commit themselves to it without reservation. They were fierce exponents of the Kallavesi warrior tradition, committing themselves fully to the fight with no half-measures, no looking back.

	All the omens agree that it would be auspicious to rebuild the lost hall. Doing so would promote the fighting traditions of the Kallavesi, reminding everyone of why these fierce warriors are so feared. Such an effort would not be cheap - but if the Empire [[commission\|commissioned]] the Hall of the Soturi as an [[edifice]] here in the heart of the Sovevann, it would draw young, aspiring warriors from across the territory. They would come here, to spar and train with each other, surrounded by the ghosts of some of the most legendary figures from Wintermark history. If that happened, it would allow Wintermark to raise a new Kallavesi army with the ~~committed~~ quality.		All the omens agree that it would be auspicious to rebuild the lost hall. Doing so would promote the fighting traditions of the Kallavesi, reminding everyone of why these fierce warriors are so feared. Such an effort would not be cheap - but if the Empire [[commission\|commissioned]] the Hall of the Soturi as an [[edifice]] here in the heart of the Sovevann, it would draw young, aspiring warriors from across the territory. They would come here, to spar and train with each other, surrounded by the ghosts of some of the most legendary figures from Wintermark history. If that happened, it would allow Wintermark to raise a new Kallavesi army with the fearless quality.
	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
	<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Hall of the Soturi'''</tr>		<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Hall of the Soturi'''</tr>
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	<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Opportunity ends if not commissioned before the end of Autumn Equinox 387YE or if the Hall of Names is commissioned</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Availability:''' Opportunity ends if not commissioned before the end of Autumn Equinox 387YE or if the Hall of Names is commissioned</td></tr>
	</table></div>		</table></div>
	The Hall would require twenty wains of white granite, twenty wains of weirwood, 120 crowns and take a season to complete. Once complete it would allow Wintermark to raise a single new Kallavesi army with the ~~committed~~ quality, drawn from the warriors training here. Once used once, there would be no further benefit.		The Hall would require twenty wains of white granite, twenty wains of weirwood, 120 crowns and take a season to complete. Once complete it would allow Wintermark to raise a single new Kallavesi army with the fearless quality, drawn from the warriors training here. Once used once, there would be no further benefit.

	====Fearless====		====Fearless====

GuiltyConscience: /* A Hero has a Name */

2026-04-08T21:40:04Z

A Hero has a Name

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:40, 8 April 2026
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	===A Hero has a Name===		===A Hero has a Name===
	* '''Wintermark could commission the Hall of Names to gather and record the names of Wintermark's heroes'''		* '''Wintermark could commission the Hall of Names to gather and record the names of Wintermark's heroes'''
	* '''The Hall of Names would allow Wintermark to raise a single new Kallavesi army with the ''named'' quality'''		* '''The Hall of Names would allow Wintermark to raise a single new Kallavesi army with the named quality'''
	After some discussion with various scops, the mystics agree that there is an alternative. Rather than restore the hall as it once was, a monument to the Kallavesi fighting spirit, the Empire could build on the ruins to house a memorial to the achievements of generations of Wintermark heroes. The proposed Hall of Names aims to gather the names of the countless Wintermark heroes and chronicle their deeds. All could be included, the greatest heroes of ages gone like [[Inga Tarn]] and [[Emperor Guntherm]], alongside the deeds of the heroes who live today.		After some discussion with various scops, the mystics agree that there is an alternative. Rather than restore the hall as it once was, a monument to the Kallavesi fighting spirit, the Empire could build on the ruins to house a memorial to the achievements of generations of Wintermark heroes. The proposed Hall of Names aims to gather the names of the countless Wintermark heroes and chronicle their deeds. All could be included, the greatest heroes of ages gone like [[Inga Tarn]] and [[Emperor Guntherm]], alongside the deeds of the heroes who live today.
	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">

Hailmur at 21:03, 8 April 2026

2026-04-08T21:03:24Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:03, 8 April 2026
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	==New Model Army==		==New Model Army==
	* '''The mystics of Ishal have been studying the omens to see how Wintermark might raise a new Kallavesi army'''		* '''The mystics of Ishal have been studying the omens to see how Wintermark might raise a new Kallavesi army'''
	* '''A new Kallavesi army could be relentless, glorious, resourceful ~~or berserk~~'''		* '''A new Kallavesi army could be relentless, glorious, or resourceful'''
	Last season, the Raven Seer set the Mystics of Ishal the task of seeing how Wintermark might best inspire and empower a new army. The [[Fist of the Mountains]], the first army of Wintermark, has been destroyed in battle. Their lives were spent defending the people of [[Urizen]] against the depredations of the [[Grendel]]. That army is gone - the [[Fight_with_monsters#Three_Tears_Entwined\|Runebound mystics who served under Emperor Guntherm]] slain alongside their warrior counterparts. Maybe in years to come, when their souls are reborn, there will come a time when mystics once again march with Wintermark's armies, but that time is far away, beyond even the sight of the seers of Ishal.		Last season, the Raven Seer set the Mystics of Ishal the task of seeing how Wintermark might best inspire and empower a new army. The [[Fist of the Mountains]], the first army of Wintermark, has been destroyed in battle. Their lives were spent defending the people of [[Urizen]] against the depredations of the [[Grendel]]. That army is gone - the [[Fight_with_monsters#Three_Tears_Entwined\|Runebound mystics who served under Emperor Guntherm]] slain alongside their warrior counterparts. Maybe in years to come, when their souls are reborn, there will come a time when mystics once again march with Wintermark's armies, but that time is far away, beyond even the sight of the seers of Ishal.

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	<div style="float: right; max-width: 50%; width=300px; margin-left: 10px;"><quote by="Raven Seer">		<div style="float: right; max-width: 50%; width=300px; margin-left: 10px;"><quote by="Raven Seer">
	We mourn the loss of the fist of the mountain, but must look to who will take up their blade. How can we best inspire and empower a new army such that it can become something unique and steeped in the traditions of Kallavesa? Show us opportunities, seeds that we might grow into a Kallavesi force of arms.</quote></div>		We mourn the loss of the fist of the mountain, but must look to who will take up their blade. How can we best inspire and empower a new army such that it can become something unique and steeped in the traditions of Kallavesa? Show us opportunities, seeds that we might grow into a Kallavesi force of arms.</quote></div>
	They are able to read the omens enough to predict what quality such an army might possess, if it were indeed raised from the Kallavesi. There are not enough mystics left who are ready to go on campaign with an army, so any new army could never be as [[Army_qualities#Farsighted\|far-sighted]] as the Fist was. However there are Kallavesi warriors who could be recruited; many of them from the [[Kallavesi#Overview\|"naga-dominated halls that disdain magic"]], these fighters take joy in battle, often making use of the [[Kallavesa#Kallavesa_Marsh\|strange plants that grow in Kallavesa]] to disarm their fear of dying, allowing them to commit to their skein no matter the cost.		They are able to read the omens enough to predict what quality such an army might possess, if it were indeed raised from the Kallavesi. There are not enough mystics left who are ready to go on campaign with an army, so any new army could never be as [[Army_qualities#Farsighted\|far-sighted]] as the Fist was. However there are Kallavesi warriors who could be recruited; many of them from the [[Kallavesi#Overview\|"naga-dominated halls that disdain magic"]], these fighters take joy in battle, often making use of the [[Kallavesa#Kallavesa_Marsh\|strange plants that grow in Kallavesa]] to disarm their fear of dying, allowing them to commit to their skein no matter the cost.

	As things stand, any new army that was raised from the Kallavesi could draw on these strengths to become [[Army_qualities#Relentless\|relentless]], [[Army_qualities#Glorious\|glorious~~]] or [[Army_qualities#Berserk\|berserk~~]]. Alternatively it could employ some of the quieter Kallavesi traditions, their expertise as foragers and herb gatherers who know how to live off the land, to become [[Army_qualities#Resourceful\|resourceful]]. In addition to this, the omens have yielded two jealously guarded secrets.		As things stand, any new army that was raised from the Kallavesi could draw on these strengths to become [[Army_qualities#Relentless\|relentless]] or [[Army_qualities#Glorious\|glorious]]. Alternatively, it could employ some of the quieter Kallavesi traditions, their expertise as foragers and herb gatherers who know how to live off the land, to become [[Army_qualities#Resourceful\|resourceful]]. In addition to this, the omens have yielded two jealously guarded secrets.
	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi_Hatchet_Warrior.jpg\|caption=The warriors of Kallavesa fight furiously, unafraid.\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi_Hatchet_Warrior.jpg\|caption=The warriors of Kallavesa fight furiously, unafraid.\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>
	===No Half Measures===		===No Half Measures===

Novemberalice: /* No Half Measures */

2026-04-08T20:05:22Z

No Half Measures

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:05, 8 April 2026
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	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi_Hatchet_Warrior.jpg\|caption=The warriors of Kallavesa fight furiously, unafraid.\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi_Hatchet_Warrior.jpg\|caption=The warriors of Kallavesa fight furiously, unafraid.\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>
	===No Half Measures===		===No Half Measures===
	* '''Wintermark could commission the Hall of the Soturi in ~~Kallavesi~~ to train heroes in readiness for a new army being raised'''		* '''Wintermark could commission the Hall of the Soturi in Kallavesa to train heroes in readiness for a new army being raised'''
	* '''The Hall would allow Wintermark to raise a single new Kallavesi army with the fearless quality'''		* '''The Hall would allow Wintermark to raise a single new Kallavesi army with the fearless quality'''

Novemberalice: /* The Witan */

2026-04-08T20:03:53Z

The Witan

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:03, 8 April 2026
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	To provide wise counsel, the crucial thing the mystics would need the Witan to provide is a concise outline of the problem that Wintermark wants to address. Anyone who brings an idea for an appraisal for the mystics before the Witan should ensure that they can articulate a clear idea of what the problem is and avoid details like how the problem should be addressed or how it should be solved. If the Witan favours their option, then Wilda will pass those details to the mystics.		To provide wise counsel, the crucial thing the mystics would need the Witan to provide is a concise outline of the problem that Wintermark wants to address. Anyone who brings an idea for an appraisal for the mystics before the Witan should ensure that they can articulate a clear idea of what the problem is and avoid details like how the problem should be addressed or how it should be solved. If the Witan favours their option, then Wilda will pass those details to the mystics.

	The mystics have asked Wilda who is [[\|Wintermark Egregore\|Sulkavaris, Knower of Names]], to call a Witan at the coming summit. She has indicated that she will do so on Saturday afternoon, at the centre of the Wintermark camp, straight after the moot is completed. The format will be simple. Anyone with a suitable proposal for an appraisal can put it before the Witan. The egregore will give each proposer a minute to make their case, and a chance to answer questions. Once the conversation becomes repetitive, she will ask those assembled to move to stand with their preferred candidate. The one with the most support will be the proposal deemed to have the backing of the Witan.		The mystics have asked Wilda who is [[Wintermark Egregore\|Sulkavaris, Knower of Names]], to call a Witan at the coming summit. She has indicated that she will do so on Saturday afternoon, at the centre of the Wintermark camp, straight after the moot is completed. The format will be simple. Anyone with a suitable proposal for an appraisal can put it before the Witan. The egregore will give each proposer a minute to make their case, and a chance to answer questions. Once the conversation becomes repetitive, she will ask those assembled to move to stand with their preferred candidate. The one with the most support will be the proposal deemed to have the backing of the Witan.
	<quote by="Leofric, Mystic of Ishal">A hero's skein is like weather... the closer it is to now, the easier it is to read.</quote>		<quote by="Leofric, Mystic of Ishal">A hero's skein is like weather... the closer it is to now, the easier it is to read.</quote>

Twiggy at 19:50, 8 April 2026

2026-04-08T19:50:00Z

GuiltyConscience: /* A Hero has a Name */

2026-04-08T19:46:10Z

A Hero has a Name

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:46, 8 April 2026
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	<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Hall of Names'''</tr>		<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Hall of Names'''</tr>
	<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Edifice</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Location:''' ~~Kallavesa_Marsh~~, Kallavesa</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Location:''' Kallavesa Marsh, Kallavesa</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 25 white granite, 25 weirwood, and 150 crowns in labour</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Time:''' 1 season</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Time:''' 1 season</td></tr>

GuiltyConscience: /* A Hero has a Name */

2026-04-08T19:45:32Z

A Hero has a Name

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:45, 8 April 2026
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	===A Hero has a Name===		===A Hero has a Name===
	* '''Wintermark could commission the Hall of Names to gather and record the names of Wintermark's heroes'''		* '''Wintermark could commission the Hall of Names to gather and record the names of Wintermark's heroes'''
	* '''The Hall of Names would allow Wintermark to raise a single new Kallavesi army with the 'named'' quality'''		* '''The Hall of Names would allow Wintermark to raise a single new Kallavesi army with the ''named'' quality'''
	After some discussion with various scops, the mystics agree that there is an alternative. Rather than restore the hall as it once was, a monument to the Kallavesi fighting spirit, the Empire could build on the ruins to house a memorial to the achievements of generations of Wintermark heroes. The proposed Hall of Names aims to gather the names of the countless Wintermark heroes and chronicle their deeds. All could be included, the greatest heroes of ages gone like [[Inga Tarn]] and [[Emperor Guntherm]], alongside the deeds of the heroes who live today.		After some discussion with various scops, the mystics agree that there is an alternative. Rather than restore the hall as it once was, a monument to the Kallavesi fighting spirit, the Empire could build on the ruins to house a memorial to the achievements of generations of Wintermark heroes. The proposed Hall of Names aims to gather the names of the countless Wintermark heroes and chronicle their deeds. All could be included, the greatest heroes of ages gone like [[Inga Tarn]] and [[Emperor Guntherm]], alongside the deeds of the heroes who live today.
	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">

GuiltyConscience: /* New Model Army */

2026-04-08T19:44:36Z

New Model Army

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:44, 8 April 2026
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	They are able to read the omens enough to predict what quality such an army might possess, if it were indeed raised from the Kallavesi. There are not enough mystics left who are ready to go on campaign with an army, so any new army could never be as [[Army_qualities#Farsighted\|far-sighted]] as the Fist was. However there are Kallevesi warriors who could be recruited; many of them from the [[Kallavesi#Overview\|"naga-dominated halls that disdain magic"]], these fighters take joy in battle, often making use of the [[Kallavesa#Kallavesa_Marsh\|strange plants that grow in Kallavesa]] to disarm their fear of dying, allowing them to commit to their skein no matter the cost.		They are able to read the omens enough to predict what quality such an army might possess, if it were indeed raised from the Kallavesi. There are not enough mystics left who are ready to go on campaign with an army, so any new army could never be as [[Army_qualities#Farsighted\|far-sighted]] as the Fist was. However there are Kallevesi warriors who could be recruited; many of them from the [[Kallavesi#Overview\|"naga-dominated halls that disdain magic"]], these fighters take joy in battle, often making use of the [[Kallavesa#Kallavesa_Marsh\|strange plants that grow in Kallavesa]] to disarm their fear of dying, allowing them to commit to their skein no matter the cost.

	As things stand, any new army that was raised from the Kallevesi could draw on these strengths to become [[Army_qualities#Relentless\|relentless]], [[Army_qualities#Glorious\|glorious]] or [[Army_qualities#~~Beserk~~\|~~beserk~~]]. Alternatively it could employ some of the quieter Kallavesi traditions, their expertise as foragers and herb gatherers who know how to live off the land, to become [[Army_qualities#Resourceful\|resourceful]]. In addition to this, the omens have yielded two jealously guarded secrets.		As things stand, any new army that was raised from the Kallevesi could draw on these strengths to become [[Army_qualities#Relentless\|relentless]], [[Army_qualities#Glorious\|glorious]] or [[Army_qualities#Berserk\|berserk]]. Alternatively it could employ some of the quieter Kallavesi traditions, their expertise as foragers and herb gatherers who know how to live off the land, to become [[Army_qualities#Resourceful\|resourceful]]. In addition to this, the omens have yielded two jealously guarded secrets.
	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi_Hatchet_Warrior.jpg\|caption=The warriors of Kallavesa fight furiously, unafraid.\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi_Hatchet_Warrior.jpg\|caption=The warriors of Kallavesa fight furiously, unafraid.\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>
	===No Half Measures===		===No Half Measures===
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	Fighting to make the ancestors proud does not prevent ''enemy'' forces from issuing orders to plunder or kill.</box>		Fighting to make the ancestors proud does not prevent ''enemy'' forces from issuing orders to plunder or kill.</box>

	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==
	* [[Raven Seer]]		* [[Raven Seer]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:50, 8 April 2026
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	[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]		[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Winter]][[Category:Recent History]]
	<ic>		<ic>
	Leofric stared at the pair of burning candles, his mind wandering. It was dark in the ruined hall; the windows that had once let light pour into the main dining area were now choked with growth. The marsh was slowly reclaiming this place, in another century or so it would likely be gone if nothing were done to save it. In life the warriors of this Hall would have drunk and celebrated here. Now they were likely interred, in the waters outside, their ~~weaopns~~ and armour lying in the dark mud along with them. It amused Leofric to imagine that soon their mead hall would be joining them.		Leofric stared at the pair of burning candles, his mind wandering. It was dark in the ruined hall; the windows that had once let light pour into the main dining area were now choked with growth. The marsh was slowly reclaiming this place, in another century or so it would likely be gone if nothing were done to save it. In life the warriors of this Hall would have drunk and celebrated here. Now they were likely interred, in the waters outside, their weapons and armour lying in the dark mud along with them. It amused Leofric to imagine that soon their mead hall would be joining them.

	Of course that was only if nothing was done to shift its skein. There was something here, he could feel it. He hadn't just stumbled on this place, the birds had known where this abandoned nest would be found. They'd led him here, a pair of Whooper Swans, their wings pointing the way as they took flight, their distinctive call beckoning him on. Not their [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swan_song swan song], but an invitation to something just as important. This building was trapped here, caught at the boundary between life and death, like a hero on his death bed drawing his final breath.		Of course that was only if nothing was done to shift its skein. There was something here, he could feel it. He hadn't just stumbled on this place, the birds had known where this abandoned nest would be found. They'd led him here, a pair of Whooper Swans, their wings pointing the way as they took flight, their distinctive call beckoning him on. Not their [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swan_song swan song], but an invitation to something just as important. This building was trapped here, caught at the boundary between life and death, like a hero on his death bed drawing his final breath.
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	The mystics have done what they can, but it is apparent to everyone that they could have done more, had their remit run wider. If they'd been more free to collaborate with the nation's [[Wintermark_military_concerns#Banner-bearers\|banner-bearers]], [[thane\|thanes]] and [[runesmith\|runesmiths]], they could have achieved more. If it was clear they had the mandate of Wintermark to pursue their divinations they could have worked with people across the nation to accomplish more.		The mystics have done what they can, but it is apparent to everyone that they could have done more, had their remit run wider. If they'd been more free to collaborate with the nation's [[Wintermark_military_concerns#Banner-bearers\|banner-bearers]], [[thane\|thanes]] and [[runesmith\|runesmiths]], they could have achieved more. If it was clear they had the mandate of Wintermark to pursue their divinations they could have worked with people across the nation to accomplish more.

	To that effect, the mystics have put ~~foward~~ a proposal for the nation to consider. To work as one, they must be guided by the whole nation - for that they need the Witan to speak...		To that effect, the mystics have put forward a proposal for the nation to consider. To work as one, they must be guided by the whole nation - for that they need the Witan to speak...
	==The Witan==		==The Witan==
	* '''The mystics of Ishal have asked the Wintermark egregore to host a Witan in Wintermark at the coming summit'''		* '''The mystics of Ishal have asked the Wintermark egregore to host a Witan in Wintermark at the coming summit'''
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	* '''This will allow the Witan to select a single topic for appraisal this season'''		* '''This will allow the Witan to select a single topic for appraisal this season'''

	The Witan is the [[Wintermark_history#The_Troll_Wars\|traditional grand moot]] held most famously after the people of Wintermark were victorious in the Troll Wars. For centuries the Witan played a key role in Wintermark's ~~leaderhip~~ - it was the Witan that would [[Crown_of_Three_Tears#As_the_Crown_of_Wintermark\|select]] who would next wear the crown when the current king or queen died. The Witan would meet whenever the monarch needed to call on the counsel and support of the nation.		The Witan is the [[Wintermark_history#The_Troll_Wars\|traditional grand moot]] held most famously after the people of Wintermark were victorious in the Troll Wars. For centuries the Witan played a key role in Wintermark's leadership - it was the Witan that would [[Crown_of_Three_Tears#As_the_Crown_of_Wintermark\|select]] who would next wear the crown when the current king or queen died. The Witan would meet whenever the monarch needed to call on the counsel and support of the nation.

	Not everyone realises that the design of the Imperial [[Senate]] was [[Senate#History\|based on the Wintermark Witan]], but the parallels are clear. The Senate elects the Throne, just as the Witan once selected the next monarch. The Throne can only rule effectively with the support of the Senate, just as the Wintermark crown once relied on the support of the Witan to get things done. Even the method of voting used in the Senate - with those present moving to stand on one side or the other, or behind their preferred candidate - traces its roots back to the Witan. There are no hidden ballots in the Witan, no secret votes; a hero stands for the cause they believe in.		Not everyone realises that the design of the Imperial [[Senate]] was [[Senate#History\|based on the Wintermark Witan]], but the parallels are clear. The Senate elects the Throne, just as the Witan once selected the next monarch. The Throne can only rule effectively with the support of the Senate, just as the Wintermark crown once relied on the support of the Witan to get things done. Even the method of voting used in the Senate - with those present moving to stand on one side or the other, or behind their preferred candidate - traces its roots back to the Witan. There are no hidden ballots in the Witan, no secret votes; a hero stands for the cause they believe in.
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	Last season, the Raven Seer set the Mystics of Ishal the task of seeing how Wintermark might best inspire and empower a new army. The [[Fist of the Mountains]], the first army of Wintermark, has been destroyed in battle. Their lives were spent defending the people of [[Urizen]] against the depredations of the [[Grendel]]. That army is gone - the [[Fight_with_monsters#Three_Tears_Entwined\|Runebound mystics who served under Emperor Guntherm]] slain alongside their warrior counterparts. Maybe in years to come, when their souls are reborn, there will come a time when mystics once again march with Wintermark's armies, but that time is far away, beyond even the sight of the seers of Ishal.		Last season, the Raven Seer set the Mystics of Ishal the task of seeing how Wintermark might best inspire and empower a new army. The [[Fist of the Mountains]], the first army of Wintermark, has been destroyed in battle. Their lives were spent defending the people of [[Urizen]] against the depredations of the [[Grendel]]. That army is gone - the [[Fight_with_monsters#Three_Tears_Entwined\|Runebound mystics who served under Emperor Guntherm]] slain alongside their warrior counterparts. Maybe in years to come, when their souls are reborn, there will come a time when mystics once again march with Wintermark's armies, but that time is far away, beyond even the sight of the seers of Ishal.

	While the Fist of the Mountain may be gone, Wintermark endures. The Imperial [[Senate]] could pass a [[Senate motion\|motion]] authorising the raising of a new Imperial army that draws on the ~~Kallevesi~~ people at any time. There are [[Army#Recruitment\|costs involved of course]], it requires 200 wains of mithril to outfit a new army, costs 75 thrones and takes a year to complete. There's nothing the mystics can do about these costs, it takes time, resources and money to outfit and train an army.		While the Fist of the Mountain may be gone, Wintermark endures. The Imperial [[Senate]] could pass a [[Senate motion\|motion]] authorising the raising of a new Imperial army that draws on the Kallavesi people at any time. There are [[Army#Recruitment\|costs involved of course]], it requires 200 wains of mithril to outfit a new army, costs 75 thrones and takes a year to complete. There's nothing the mystics can do about these costs, it takes time, resources and money to outfit and train an army.
	<div style="float: right; max-width: 50%; width=300px; margin-left: 10px;"><quote by="Raven Seer">		<div style="float: right; max-width: 50%; width=300px; margin-left: 10px;"><quote by="Raven Seer">
	We mourn the loss of the fist of the mountain, but must look to who will take up their blade. How can we best inspire and empower a new army such that it can become something unique and steeped in the traditions of Kallavesa? Show us opportunities, seeds that we might grow into a Kallavesi force of arms.</quote></div>		We mourn the loss of the fist of the mountain, but must look to who will take up their blade. How can we best inspire and empower a new army such that it can become something unique and steeped in the traditions of Kallavesa? Show us opportunities, seeds that we might grow into a Kallavesi force of arms.</quote></div>
	They are able to read the omens enough to predict what quality such an army might possess, if it were indeed raised from the Kallavesi. There are not enough mystics left who are ready to go on campaign with an army, so any new army could never be as [[Army_qualities#Farsighted\|far-sighted]] as the Fist was. However there are ~~Kallevesi~~ warriors who could be recruited; many of them from the [[Kallavesi#Overview\|"naga-dominated halls that disdain magic"]], these fighters take joy in battle, often making use of the [[Kallavesa#Kallavesa_Marsh\|strange plants that grow in Kallavesa]] to disarm their fear of dying, allowing them to commit to their skein no matter the cost.		They are able to read the omens enough to predict what quality such an army might possess, if it were indeed raised from the Kallavesi. There are not enough mystics left who are ready to go on campaign with an army, so any new army could never be as [[Army_qualities#Farsighted\|far-sighted]] as the Fist was. However there are Kallavesi warriors who could be recruited; many of them from the [[Kallavesi#Overview\|"naga-dominated halls that disdain magic"]], these fighters take joy in battle, often making use of the [[Kallavesa#Kallavesa_Marsh\|strange plants that grow in Kallavesa]] to disarm their fear of dying, allowing them to commit to their skein no matter the cost.

	As things stand, any new army that was raised from the ~~Kallevesi~~ could draw on these strengths to become [[Army_qualities#Relentless\|relentless]], [[Army_qualities#Glorious\|glorious]] or [[Army_qualities#Berserk\|berserk]]. Alternatively it could employ some of the quieter Kallavesi traditions, their expertise as foragers and herb gatherers who know how to live off the land, to become [[Army_qualities#Resourceful\|resourceful]]. In addition to this, the omens have yielded two jealously guarded secrets.		As things stand, any new army that was raised from the Kallavesi could draw on these strengths to become [[Army_qualities#Relentless\|relentless]], [[Army_qualities#Glorious\|glorious]] or [[Army_qualities#Berserk\|berserk]]. Alternatively it could employ some of the quieter Kallavesi traditions, their expertise as foragers and herb gatherers who know how to live off the land, to become [[Army_qualities#Resourceful\|resourceful]]. In addition to this, the omens have yielded two jealously guarded secrets.
	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi_Hatchet_Warrior.jpg\|caption=The warriors of Kallavesa fight furiously, unafraid.\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi_Hatchet_Warrior.jpg\|caption=The warriors of Kallavesa fight furiously, unafraid.\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>
	===No Half Measures===		===No Half Measures===
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	When they die, the greatest heroes of Wintermark are interred in [[Kallavesa#The_Sovevann\|The Sovevann]], the ever-shifting haunted marshes. According to the legends, their spirits dwell there still, and will sometimes come forth to welcome one of their own to their final resting place. The Sovevann is a place of mysticism and spirituality, where the veil between life and what comes after, grows thin.		When they die, the greatest heroes of Wintermark are interred in [[Kallavesa#The_Sovevann\|The Sovevann]], the ever-shifting haunted marshes. According to the legends, their spirits dwell there still, and will sometimes come forth to welcome one of their own to their final resting place. The Sovevann is a place of mysticism and spirituality, where the veil between life and what comes after, grows thin.

	Leofric, one of the mystics of Ishal, was inspired by the flight of birds, to venture deep into the Sovevann as he sought inspiration to answer the Raven Seer's riddle. There he discovered the dwindling ~~remmants~~ of a once great dwelling, the Hall of the Soturi. Once home to a banner of ~~kallavesi~~ warriors, they marched to war with [[Empress Aenea]] and never came back. The walls of the Hall bore the Soturi's oath, "A hero who commits their all never loses, they know only victory or death." The oath epitomised the Soturi's approach to battle - once a course of action was chosen they must commit themselves to it without reservation. They were fierce exponents of the Kallavesi warrior tradition, committing themselves fully to the fight with no half-measures, no looking back.		Leofric, one of the mystics of Ishal, was inspired by the flight of birds, to venture deep into the Sovevann as he sought inspiration to answer the Raven Seer's riddle. There he discovered the dwindling remnants of a once great dwelling, the Hall of the Soturi. Once home to a banner of Kallavesi warriors, they marched to war with [[Empress Aenea]] and never came back. The walls of the Hall bore the Soturi's oath, "A hero who commits their all never loses, they know only victory or death." The oath epitomised the Soturi's approach to battle - once a course of action was chosen they must commit themselves to it without reservation. They were fierce exponents of the Kallavesi warrior tradition, committing themselves fully to the fight with no half-measures, no looking back.

	All the omens agree that it would be auspicious to rebuild the lost hall. Doing so would promote the fighting traditions of the Kallavesi, reminding everyone of why these fierce warriors are so feared. Such an effort would not be cheap - but if the Empire [[commission\|commissioned]] the Hall of the Soturi as an [[edifice]] here in the heart of the Sovevann, it would draw young, aspiring warriors from across the territory. They would come here, to spar and train with each other, surrounded by the ghosts of some of the most legendary figures from Wintermark history. If that happened, it would allow Wintermark to raise a new Kallavesi army with the committed quality.		All the omens agree that it would be auspicious to rebuild the lost hall. Doing so would promote the fighting traditions of the Kallavesi, reminding everyone of why these fierce warriors are so feared. Such an effort would not be cheap - but if the Empire [[commission\|commissioned]] the Hall of the Soturi as an [[edifice]] here in the heart of the Sovevann, it would draw young, aspiring warriors from across the territory. They would come here, to spar and train with each other, surrounded by the ghosts of some of the most legendary figures from Wintermark history. If that happened, it would allow Wintermark to raise a new Kallavesi army with the committed quality.
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	* '''Casualties suffered by this army are increased by three tenths'''		* '''Casualties suffered by this army are increased by three tenths'''

	A fearless army takes every opportunity to ~~defear~~ the enemy, committing themselves to victory no matter the cost. There can be no half measures for heroes in battle, only victory or death. Fighting without concern for the losses allows the army to drive enemies before them, but only at great cost, losses will inevitably be higher than they would otherwise have been.</box>		A fearless army takes every opportunity to defeat the enemy, committing themselves to victory no matter the cost. There can be no half measures for heroes in battle, only victory or death. Fighting without concern for the losses allows the army to drive enemies before them, but only at great cost, losses will inevitably be higher than they would otherwise have been.</box>
	<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi Warrior.jpg\|caption=The scops of Wintermark record the names of the great heroes who have fought the enemies of the three people since the end of the Troll War.\|align=right\|width=400}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 400px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Kallavesi Warrior.jpg\|caption=The scops of Wintermark record the names of the great heroes who have fought the enemies of the three people since the end of the Troll War.\|align=right\|width=400}}</div>