Four and four - Revision history

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial army" to "[[Army"

2026-01-16T09:42:33Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial army" to "[[Army"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:42, 16 January 2026
Line 29:		Line 29:
	[[Janon\|Janon's]] interest in the Empire flares and dims like a dancing flame. Following the decisive strikes against [[Mosaic\|Chalonsio]] and [[Burning\|Rachensgrab]], his attention to Imperial affairs seems to be very much on the rise. His heralds are regularly visiting [[Anvil]], encouraging people to embrace their passions and continue to take action to reshape their world.		[[Janon\|Janon's]] interest in the Empire flares and dims like a dancing flame. Following the decisive strikes against [[Mosaic\|Chalonsio]] and [[Burning\|Rachensgrab]], his attention to Imperial affairs seems to be very much on the rise. His heralds are regularly visiting [[Anvil]], encouraging people to embrace their passions and continue to take action to reshape their world.

	The ''Shadowed Flame'' is also a great fan of the [[Burning Falcon]] - [[the Brass Coast]] [[~~Imperial army~~\|army]] that rose from the ashes of the past and immediately went to war with the [[Jotun]]. Indeed at the invitation of '''General Aracelis I Erigo''' heralds of the Night eternal are spotted [[Shallows_and_miseries#Who_and_What\|fighting alongside]] the army in the recent battles to retake [[Kahraman]]. The warlike heralds are especially fond of the [[kohan]], inspiring those who fight alongside them to fight even more enthusiastically, fanning the flames of the passion that burns within of them. They don't just restrain their support to the kohan, however. The soldiers of the Burning Falcon who take time to get to know the heralds are urged to identify what it is that drives them to fight, and to embrace it, allowing it to consume them and give them the strength they need to seize the world by the throat and make it beg for mercy. By all accounts it can be an intense experience.		The ''Shadowed Flame'' is also a great fan of the [[Burning Falcon]] - [[the Brass Coast]] [[Army\|army]] that rose from the ashes of the past and immediately went to war with the [[Jotun]]. Indeed at the invitation of '''General Aracelis I Erigo''' heralds of the Night eternal are spotted [[Shallows_and_miseries#Who_and_What\|fighting alongside]] the army in the recent battles to retake [[Kahraman]]. The warlike heralds are especially fond of the [[kohan]], inspiring those who fight alongside them to fight even more enthusiastically, fanning the flames of the passion that burns within of them. They don't just restrain their support to the kohan, however. The soldiers of the Burning Falcon who take time to get to know the heralds are urged to identify what it is that drives them to fight, and to embrace it, allowing it to consume them and give them the strength they need to seize the world by the throat and make it beg for mercy. By all accounts it can be an intense experience.
	===Whistle And I'll Come===		===Whistle And I'll Come===
	* '''Any general can invite Janon to send his warrior-heralds to fight alongside their army'''		* '''Any general can invite Janon to send his warrior-heralds to fight alongside their army'''

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

2026-01-15T16:02:56Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

Vsabo: /* A Steady-burning Light (Zakalwe) */

2023-08-02T20:53:30Z

A Steady-burning Light (Zakalwe)

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:53, 2 August 2023
Line 145:		Line 145:
	During the Spring Equinox, a team of carefully selected strategists from Dawn [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#A_Game_of_Strategy\|took part in a complex simulation]] crafted by [[Zakalwe]], testing their acumen and resolve as they refought one of the campaigns from the reign of [[Empress Brannan]]. The ''Weapon-wise'' is apparently pleased with how well they acquitted themselves, and has instructed his lieutenant ''Agon'' to show his appreciation. He's also charged with finding a team of Wintermark tacticians to take part in the next stage of the Great Game, to take place at the Autumn Equinox. Agon and the Opening Gambit will be visiting Anvil at half seven on Friday to speak to the Dawnish, and then proceeding to Wintermark, and anyone who wishes to speak with them should be able to find them in one camp or the other.		During the Spring Equinox, a team of carefully selected strategists from Dawn [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#A_Game_of_Strategy\|took part in a complex simulation]] crafted by [[Zakalwe]], testing their acumen and resolve as they refought one of the campaigns from the reign of [[Empress Brannan]]. The ''Weapon-wise'' is apparently pleased with how well they acquitted themselves, and has instructed his lieutenant ''Agon'' to show his appreciation. He's also charged with finding a team of Wintermark tacticians to take part in the next stage of the Great Game, to take place at the Autumn Equinox. Agon and the Opening Gambit will be visiting Anvil at half seven on Friday to speak to the Dawnish, and then proceeding to Wintermark, and anyone who wishes to speak with them should be able to find them in one camp or the other.

	While Agon is busy with one matter of games, a second herald named ''Asp'' is expected to visit the [[Imperial Orcs]] to talk on a slightly different matter. During the Spring Equinox the Archmage of Day asked that Zakalwe help the Imperial Orcs to devise a new strategy game for the nation to play. Asp, another lieutenant of the ''General of the Day'' has expressed an interest in the request, and Zakalwe has given them leave to visit the Imperial Orcs to discuss the matter They expect to arrive around 13:00 on Saturday.		While Agon is busy with one matter of games, a second herald named ''Asp'' is expected to visit the [[Imperial Orcs]] to talk on a slightly different matter. During the Spring Equinox the Archmage of Day asked that Zakalwe help the Imperial Orcs to devise a new strategy game for the nation to play. Asp, another lieutenant of the ''General of the Day'' has expressed an interest in the request, and Zakalwe has given them leave to visit the Imperial Orcs to discuss the matter. They expect to arrive around 13:00 on Saturday.

	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==
	* [[Three and three]] - 385YE Summer Solstice plenipotentiary wind of fortune		* [[Three and three]] - 385YE Summer Solstice plenipotentiary wind of fortune
	* [[Inkpot gods]] - 385YE Summer Solstice wind of fortune about the Autumn Eternals		* [[Inkpot gods]] - 385YE Summer Solstice wind of fortune about the Autumn Eternals

Vsabo: /* A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe) */

2023-08-02T20:48:01Z

A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe)

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:48, 2 August 2023
Line 136:		Line 136:
	* The shield, [[Champion_of_Pride#Regalia_of_the_Champion_of_Pride\|Ajax]], borne by the [[Champion of Pride]] is cursed by the [[Druj]]. There are two obvious ways to remove the curse. One could ask the eternal responsible for the curse directly, which zie believes is most likely [[Arhallogen]]. Alternatively, as analysis of the shield reveals, the waters of a certain spring, precious to an eternal the Empire [[Alignment#Enmity\|placed under enmity]] many years ago, will wash it away. Zie warns however that in the process of cleansing the shield, the waters will become fouled by the curse, potentially permanently. Whoever undertakes this task must consider carefully how to avoid destroying the precious spring - unless their goal is to infuriate the eternal who oversees it. Ylenwe cannot in good conscience help the Empire trespass on the spring in question, and urges the appropriate Archmage to request access directly from the one who owns it.		* The shield, [[Champion_of_Pride#Regalia_of_the_Champion_of_Pride\|Ajax]], borne by the [[Champion of Pride]] is cursed by the [[Druj]]. There are two obvious ways to remove the curse. One could ask the eternal responsible for the curse directly, which zie believes is most likely [[Arhallogen]]. Alternatively, as analysis of the shield reveals, the waters of a certain spring, precious to an eternal the Empire [[Alignment#Enmity\|placed under enmity]] many years ago, will wash it away. Zie warns however that in the process of cleansing the shield, the waters will become fouled by the curse, potentially permanently. Whoever undertakes this task must consider carefully how to avoid destroying the precious spring - unless their goal is to infuriate the eternal who oversees it. Ylenwe cannot in good conscience help the Empire trespass on the spring in question, and urges the appropriate Archmage to request access directly from the one who owns it.
	* On the matter of the shards of music being sought by Imperial citizens Ylenwe is unable to offer much concrete support. Zie knows that each fragment was somewhere in Anvil during the Spring Equinox, and believes the same will be true at the Summer Solstice. Zie also knows that someone has the capacity to make contact with the ''unpredictable mage of forgotten days who took the power of the stars and wove a prison from it'' who can almost certainly provide any missing pieces, but unfortunately not who they are or how they might be contacted. Zie does know one thing though which zie hopes may be of use to Imperial magicians; while the music might be found and reassembled, as resonances of the constellations themselves, the Lock and the Key must be in agreement to their power being drawn through the playing of that music. Such agreement is likely to coincide to when events or actions in the world below resonate with their nature. All statements which may mean more to astronomancers, or those involved in pursuing the musical shards.		* On the matter of the shards of music being sought by Imperial citizens Ylenwe is unable to offer much concrete support. Zie knows that each fragment was somewhere in Anvil during the Spring Equinox, and believes the same will be true at the Summer Solstice. Zie also knows that someone has the capacity to make contact with the ''unpredictable mage of forgotten days who took the power of the stars and wove a prison from it'' who can almost certainly provide any missing pieces, but unfortunately not who they are or how they might be contacted. Zie does know one thing though which zie hopes may be of use to Imperial magicians; while the music might be found and reassembled, as resonances of the constellations themselves, the Lock and the Key must be in agreement to their power being drawn through the playing of that music. Such agreement is likely to coincide to when events or actions in the world below resonate with their nature. All statements which may mean more to astronomancers, or those involved in pursuing the musical shards.
	''Pia Diijksma'' can't elaborate on any of these matters herself. While she is on reasonable terms with ''de Duif'', ~~but~~ she is merely a messenger. She hints obliquely that it is good for her if the Empire ''doesn't'' rebuild their bridges with Ylenwe, because then she will continue to be paid to serve as a go between.		''Pia Diijksma'' can't elaborate on any of these matters herself. While she is on reasonable terms with ''de Duif'', she is merely a messenger. She hints obliquely that it is good for her if the Empire ''doesn't'' rebuild their bridges with Ylenwe, because then she will continue to be paid to serve as a go between.
	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=ZakalweArt.jpg\|align=left\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=ZakalweArt.jpg\|align=left\|width=300}}</div>

Vsabo: /* A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe) */

2023-08-02T20:40:46Z

A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe)

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:40, 2 August 2023
Line 133:		Line 133:
	[[Ylenwe]] has been considered an [[Alignment#Enmity\|enemy of the Empire]] by the Imperial Conclave for some time now. During the Spring Equinox, the [[Archmage of Day]] '''Skywise Gralka''' [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Ylenrith\|met with the eternal]] to discuss the situation. Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] magician named ''Pia Diijksma'' who works at the ''Alivetti estates'' enclave in [[Caricomare]] delivers a message on behalf of ''the Dove'' which lays out several proposals to end the breach between the Empire and the ''Perfect Morning''. Of the four ways that the Archmage suggested the situation might be resolved, Ylenwe believes zie can do something concrete with half of them.		[[Ylenwe]] has been considered an [[Alignment#Enmity\|enemy of the Empire]] by the Imperial Conclave for some time now. During the Spring Equinox, the [[Archmage of Day]] '''Skywise Gralka''' [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Ylenrith\|met with the eternal]] to discuss the situation. Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] magician named ''Pia Diijksma'' who works at the ''Alivetti estates'' enclave in [[Caricomare]] delivers a message on behalf of ''the Dove'' which lays out several proposals to end the breach between the Empire and the ''Perfect Morning''. Of the four ways that the Archmage suggested the situation might be resolved, Ylenwe believes zie can do something concrete with half of them.
	* [[Abraxus_Stone#The_Swan.27s_Chalice\|The Swan's Chalice]] still exists, and Ylenwe would dearly like it to be back in the hands of an Imperial magician. Unfortunately, it is currently in the possession of a [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] of the [[Sarangrave]], who takes great pleasure in befouling it, yet the eternal is bound by covenant to renew its power each year. The Chalice is due to be renewed during the Autumn Equinox, but there may be a way for the Empire to recapture the item at that time. If the [[Imperial Conclave]] use a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]] to assign one of the [[Conclave order\|conclave orders]] to serve as an escort for the herald zie sends, then once the item is renewed they could take it from the disgusting ghulai. Zie cannot assure an opening of the [[Sentinel Gate]] but believes if the connection was made, fate would do the rest. It would, however, be necessary to remove the enmity before the Chalice was returned to [[Anvil]] lest the magistrates (rightly) immediately seize and destroy it. What happened to the Chalice after that would be a matter for the Conclave to discuss.		* [[Abraxus_Stone#The_Swan.27s_Chalice\|The Swan's Chalice]] still exists, and Ylenwe would dearly like it to be back in the hands of an Imperial magician. Unfortunately, it is currently in the possession of a [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] of the [[Sarangrave]], who takes great pleasure in befouling it, yet the eternal is bound by covenant to renew its power each year. The Chalice is due to be renewed during the Autumn Equinox, but there may be a way for the Empire to recapture the item at that time. If the [[Imperial Conclave]] use a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]] to assign one of the [[Conclave order\|conclave orders]] to serve as an escort for the herald zie sends, then once the item is renewed they could take it from the disgusting ghulai. Zie cannot assure an opening of the [[Sentinel Gate]] but believes if the connection was made, fate would do the rest. It would, however, be necessary to remove the enmity before the Chalice was returned to [[Anvil]] lest the magistrates (rightly) immediately seize and destroy it. What happened to the Chalice after that would be a matter for the Conclave to discuss.
	* The Archmage mentioned the [[Blood will thicken\|grand project to build a beacon of the Way]] in the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|White City]]. Zie is interested, especially in the possibility of including beautiful belltowers that would celebrate the faith of the people visiting the city. Ylenwe is cautious however; would the aid zie offers even be acceptable to the priests of the Empire? If the Conclave removes the enmity, ~~and~~ and the General Assembly or the Highborn National Assembly use a [[statement of principle]] to invite Ylenwe to offer support to the project, zie will gladly take part.		* The Archmage mentioned the [[Blood will thicken\|grand project to build a beacon of the Way]] in the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|White City]]. Zie is interested, especially in the possibility of including beautiful belltowers that would celebrate the faith of the people visiting the city. Ylenwe is cautious however; would the aid zie offers even be acceptable to the priests of the Empire? If the Conclave removes the enmity, and the General Assembly or the Highborn National Assembly use a [[statement of principle]] to invite Ylenwe to offer support to the project, zie will gladly take part.
	* The shield, [[Champion_of_Pride#Regalia_of_the_Champion_of_Pride\|Ajax]], borne by the [[Champion of Pride]] is cursed by the [[Druj]]. There are two obvious ways to remove the curse. One could ask the eternal responsible for the curse directly, which zie believes is most likely [[Arhallogen]]. Alternatively, as analysis of the shield reveals, the waters of a certain spring, precious to an eternal the Empire [[Alignment#Enmity\|placed under enmity]] many years ago, will wash it away. Zie warns however that in the process of cleansing the shield, the waters will become fouled by the curse, potentially permanently. Whoever undertakes this task must consider carefully how to avoid destroying the precious spring - unless their goal is to infuriate the eternal who oversees it. Ylenwe cannot in good conscience help the Empire trespass on the spring in question, and urges the appropriate Archmage to request access directly from the one who owns it.		* The shield, [[Champion_of_Pride#Regalia_of_the_Champion_of_Pride\|Ajax]], borne by the [[Champion of Pride]] is cursed by the [[Druj]]. There are two obvious ways to remove the curse. One could ask the eternal responsible for the curse directly, which zie believes is most likely [[Arhallogen]]. Alternatively, as analysis of the shield reveals, the waters of a certain spring, precious to an eternal the Empire [[Alignment#Enmity\|placed under enmity]] many years ago, will wash it away. Zie warns however that in the process of cleansing the shield, the waters will become fouled by the curse, potentially permanently. Whoever undertakes this task must consider carefully how to avoid destroying the precious spring - unless their goal is to infuriate the eternal who oversees it. Ylenwe cannot in good conscience help the Empire trespass on the spring in question, and urges the appropriate Archmage to request access directly from the one who owns it.
	* On the matter of the shards of music being sought by Imperial citizens Ylenwe is unable to offer much concrete support. Zie knows that each fragment was somewhere in Anvil during the Spring Equinox, and believes the same will be true at the Summer Solstice. Zie also knows that someone has the capacity to make contact with the ''unpredictable mage of forgotten days who took the power of the stars and wove a prison from it'' who can almost certainly provide any missing pieces, but unfortunately not who they are or how they might be contacted. Zie does know one thing though which zie hopes may be of use to Imperial magicians; while the music might be found and reassembled, as resonances of the constellations themselves, the Lock and the Key must be in agreement to their power being drawn through the playing of that music. Such agreement is likely to coincide to when events or actions in the world below resonate with their nature. All statements which may mean more to astronomancers, or those involved in pursuing the musical shards.		* On the matter of the shards of music being sought by Imperial citizens Ylenwe is unable to offer much concrete support. Zie knows that each fragment was somewhere in Anvil during the Spring Equinox, and believes the same will be true at the Summer Solstice. Zie also knows that someone has the capacity to make contact with the ''unpredictable mage of forgotten days who took the power of the stars and wove a prison from it'' who can almost certainly provide any missing pieces, but unfortunately not who they are or how they might be contacted. Zie does know one thing though which zie hopes may be of use to Imperial magicians; while the music might be found and reassembled, as resonances of the constellations themselves, the Lock and the Key must be in agreement to their power being drawn through the playing of that music. Such agreement is likely to coincide to when events or actions in the world below resonate with their nature. All statements which may mean more to astronomancers, or those involved in pursuing the musical shards.

Vsabo: /* A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe) */

2023-08-02T20:35:02Z

A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe)

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:35, 2 August 2023
Line 131:		Line 131:
	==A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe)==		==A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe)==
	* '''After meeting with the Archmage of Day, the eternal Ylenwe, once known as Ylenrith, has made offers of restitution for past poor behaviour'''		* '''After meeting with the Archmage of Day, the eternal Ylenwe, once known as Ylenrith, has made offers of restitution for past poor behaviour'''
	[[Ylenwe]] has been considered an [[Alignment#Enmity\|~~enmy~~ of the Empire]] by the Imperial Conclave for some time now. During the Spring Equinox, the [[Archmage of Day]] '''Skywise Gralka''' [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Ylenrith\|met with the eternal]] to discuss the situation. Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] magician named ''Pia Diijksma'' who works at the ''Alivetti estates'' enclave in [[Caricomare]] delivers a message on behalf of ''the Dove'' which lays out several proposals to end the breach between the Empire and the ''Perfect Morning''. Of the four ways that the Archmage suggested the situation might be resolved, Ylenwe believes zie can do something concrete with half of them.		[[Ylenwe]] has been considered an [[Alignment#Enmity\|enemy of the Empire]] by the Imperial Conclave for some time now. During the Spring Equinox, the [[Archmage of Day]] '''Skywise Gralka''' [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Ylenrith\|met with the eternal]] to discuss the situation. Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] magician named ''Pia Diijksma'' who works at the ''Alivetti estates'' enclave in [[Caricomare]] delivers a message on behalf of ''the Dove'' which lays out several proposals to end the breach between the Empire and the ''Perfect Morning''. Of the four ways that the Archmage suggested the situation might be resolved, Ylenwe believes zie can do something concrete with half of them.
	* [[Abraxus_Stone#The_Swan.27s_Chalice\|The Swan's Chalice]] still exists, and Ylenwe would dearly like it to be back in the hands of an Imperial magician. Unfortunately, it is currently in the possession of a [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] of the [[Sarangrave]], who takes great pleasure in befouling it, yet the eternal is bound by covenant to renew its power each year. The Chalice is due to be renewed during the Autumn Equinox, but there may be a way for the Empire to recapture the item at that time. If the [[Imperial Conclave]] use a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]] to assign one of the [[Conclave order\|conclave orders]] to serve as an escort for the herald zie sends, then once the item is renewed they could take it from the disgusting ghulai. Zie cannot assure an opening of the [[Sentinel Gate]] but believes if the connection was made, fate would do the rest. It would, however, be necessary to remove the enmity before the Chalice was returned to [[Anvil]] lest the magistrates (rightly) immediately seize and destroy it. What happened to the Chalice after that would be a matter for the Conclave to discuss.		* [[Abraxus_Stone#The_Swan.27s_Chalice\|The Swan's Chalice]] still exists, and Ylenwe would dearly like it to be back in the hands of an Imperial magician. Unfortunately, it is currently in the possession of a [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] of the [[Sarangrave]], who takes great pleasure in befouling it, yet the eternal is bound by covenant to renew its power each year. The Chalice is due to be renewed during the Autumn Equinox, but there may be a way for the Empire to recapture the item at that time. If the [[Imperial Conclave]] use a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]] to assign one of the [[Conclave order\|conclave orders]] to serve as an escort for the herald zie sends, then once the item is renewed they could take it from the disgusting ghulai. Zie cannot assure an opening of the [[Sentinel Gate]] but believes if the connection was made, fate would do the rest. It would, however, be necessary to remove the enmity before the Chalice was returned to [[Anvil]] lest the magistrates (rightly) immediately seize and destroy it. What happened to the Chalice after that would be a matter for the Conclave to discuss.
	* The Archmage mentioned the [[Blood will thicken\|grand project to build a beacon of the Way]] in the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|White City]]. Zie is interested, especially in the possibility of including beautiful belltowers that would celebrate the faith of the people visiting the city. Ylenwe is cautious however; would the aid zie offers even be acceptable to the priests of the Empire? If the Conclave removes the enmity, and and the General Assembly or the Highborn National Assembly use a [[statement of principle]] to invite Ylenwe to offer support to the project, zie will gladly take part.		* The Archmage mentioned the [[Blood will thicken\|grand project to build a beacon of the Way]] in the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|White City]]. Zie is interested, especially in the possibility of including beautiful belltowers that would celebrate the faith of the people visiting the city. Ylenwe is cautious however; would the aid zie offers even be acceptable to the priests of the Empire? If the Conclave removes the enmity, and and the General Assembly or the Highborn National Assembly use a [[statement of principle]] to invite Ylenwe to offer support to the project, zie will gladly take part.

Vsabo: /* Winter's Grasping Chains (Tharim) */

2023-08-02T20:28:37Z

Winter's Grasping Chains (Tharim)

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:28, 2 August 2023
Line 120:		Line 120:
	[[Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] continues to [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#Winter_Wards\|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. As long as the Bound King continues to be a [[Alignment#Amity\|friend of the Empire]], and an image of the eternal is displayed during Conclave sessions that is visible throughout the Hall of Worlds, the ward will persist. Unless they are responding to a [[Archmage#Parely\|parley]], heralds will be unable to enter the Hall if their master is under [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]], and those whose master is [[Alignment#Neutrality\|neutral]] will not be able to cross the hall without an invitation from an Imperial magician.		[[Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] continues to [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#Winter_Wards\|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. As long as the Bound King continues to be a [[Alignment#Amity\|friend of the Empire]], and an image of the eternal is displayed during Conclave sessions that is visible throughout the Hall of Worlds, the ward will persist. Unless they are responding to a [[Archmage#Parely\|parley]], heralds will be unable to enter the Hall if their master is under [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]], and those whose master is [[Alignment#Neutrality\|neutral]] will not be able to cross the hall without an invitation from an Imperial magician.

	Shortly before the Solstice, a grim-faced emissary in black-and-gold robes appears in the Hall of Worlds, one arm bound tightly to their body by bloody ropes. They bring a message from the Bound King's court. Apparently, over the last several seasons representatives of a [[Sarcophan Delves]] family called the ''Alders-Baart'' have been visiting Anvil to sell accursed relics to Imperial collectors This isn't a secret; they attended during [[The_long_bench#Accurs.C3.A8d_Curios\|Autumn]] and [[Gorgeous#A_Lucrative_Trade_in_Horribly_Cursed_Curios\|Winter]] last year, and again [[Round_here#A_Cursed_Demand_Means_Accursed_Supply\|during the Spring Equinox]]. Innkeepers and hostelers all along the route between Crown's Quay and Anvil still mutter their name darkly, given the vague aura of misfortune that followed in their wake, and Sarcophan merchants often now encounter a cold welcome as a consequence.		Shortly before the Solstice, a grim-faced emissary in black-and-gold robes appears in the Hall of Worlds, one arm bound tightly to their body by bloody ropes. They bring a message from the Bound King's court. Apparently, over the last several seasons representatives of a [[Sarcophan Delves]] family called the ''Alders-Baart'' have been visiting Anvil to sell accursed relics to Imperial collectors. This isn't a secret; they attended during [[The_long_bench#Accurs.C3.A8d_Curios\|Autumn]] and [[Gorgeous#A_Lucrative_Trade_in_Horribly_Cursed_Curios\|Winter]] last year, and again [[Round_here#A_Cursed_Demand_Means_Accursed_Supply\|during the Spring Equinox]]. Innkeepers and hostelers all along the route between Crown's Quay and Anvil still mutter their name darkly, given the vague aura of misfortune that followed in their wake, and Sarcophan merchants often now encounter a cold welcome as a consequence.

	Tharim views this trade as a craven attempt by the Alders-Baart to avoid the consequences of their actions and slip the bonds they wound around themselves. The emissary won't go into detail - the Sarcophan family knows what they did. Obviously, the ritual [[Tribute to the Thrice-Cursed Court]] is currently illegal to perform in the Empire, thanks to the Conclave's entirely understandable anger at the regrettable actions of the [[Skathe\|Hag Queen]]. However, were any of the accursèd curios to find their way to Tharim via this ritual, he would be able to untangle the magic of the curse the object bore, and ensure it is returned to where it belongs - in Sarcophan, at the estates of the Alders-Baart. Some of the objects are not actually [[magic items]], or their dweomer may have faded, but no matter. Tharim wants the items anyway, and the ritual ''will'' work on them, he is sure. Again, not that any Imperial citizen would want to cast it, but if the bulk of the curios slipped to Imperial collectors are found and dealt with in this fashion, Tharim would be grateful.		Tharim views this trade as a craven attempt by the Alders-Baart to avoid the consequences of their actions and slip the bonds they wound around themselves. The emissary won't go into detail - the Sarcophan family knows what they did. Obviously, the ritual [[Tribute to the Thrice-Cursed Court]] is currently illegal to perform in the Empire, thanks to the Conclave's entirely understandable anger at the regrettable actions of the [[Skathe\|Hag Queen]]. However, were any of the accursèd curios to find their way to Tharim via this ritual, he would be able to untangle the magic of the curse the object bore, and ensure it is returned to where it belongs - in Sarcophan, at the estates of the Alders-Baart. Some of the objects are not actually [[magic items]], or their dweomer may have faded, but no matter. Tharim wants the items anyway, and the ritual ''will'' work on them, he is sure. Again, not that any Imperial citizen would want to cast it, but if the bulk of the curios slipped to Imperial collectors are found and dealt with in this fashion, Tharim would be grateful.

Vsabo: /* Winter's Grasping Chains (Tharim) */

2023-08-02T20:25:29Z

Winter's Grasping Chains (Tharim)

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:25, 2 August 2023
Line 118:		Line 118:
	* '''Tharim has expressed interest in certain cursed curios sold on behalf of the Alders-Baart family of Sarcophan'''		* '''Tharim has expressed interest in certain cursed curios sold on behalf of the Alders-Baart family of Sarcophan'''
	* '''A counter-proposal has been presented that would help the Sarcophan escape their curse'''		* '''A counter-proposal has been presented that would help the Sarcophan escape their curse'''
	[[Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] continues to [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#Winter_Wards\|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. As long as the Bound King continues to be a [[Alignment#Amity\|friend of the Empire]], and an image of the eternal is displayed during Conclave sessions that is visible throughout the Hall of Worlds, the ward will persist. Unless they are responding to a [[Archmage#Parely\|parley]], heralds will be unable to enter the Hall if their master is under [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]], and those whose ~~mater~~ is [[Alignment#Neutrality\|neutral]] will not be able to cross the hall without an invitation from an Imperial magician.		[[Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] continues to [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#Winter_Wards\|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. As long as the Bound King continues to be a [[Alignment#Amity\|friend of the Empire]], and an image of the eternal is displayed during Conclave sessions that is visible throughout the Hall of Worlds, the ward will persist. Unless they are responding to a [[Archmage#Parely\|parley]], heralds will be unable to enter the Hall if their master is under [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]], and those whose master is [[Alignment#Neutrality\|neutral]] will not be able to cross the hall without an invitation from an Imperial magician.

	Shortly before the Solstice, a grim-faced emissary in black-and-gold robes appears in the Hall of Worlds, one arm bound tightly to their body by bloody ropes. They bring a message from the Bound King's court. Apparently, over the last several seasons representatives of a [[Sarcophan Delves]] family called the ''Alders-Baart'' have been visiting Anvil to sell accursed relics to Imperial collectors This isn't a secret; they attended during [[The_long_bench#Accurs.C3.A8d_Curios\|Autumn]] and [[Gorgeous#A_Lucrative_Trade_in_Horribly_Cursed_Curios\|Winter]] last year, and again [[Round_here#A_Cursed_Demand_Means_Accursed_Supply\|during the Spring Equinox]]. Innkeepers and hostelers all along the route between Crown's Quay and Anvil still mutter their name darkly, given the vague aura of misfortune that followed in their wake, and Sarcophan merchants often now encounter a cold welcome as a consequence.		Shortly before the Solstice, a grim-faced emissary in black-and-gold robes appears in the Hall of Worlds, one arm bound tightly to their body by bloody ropes. They bring a message from the Bound King's court. Apparently, over the last several seasons representatives of a [[Sarcophan Delves]] family called the ''Alders-Baart'' have been visiting Anvil to sell accursed relics to Imperial collectors This isn't a secret; they attended during [[The_long_bench#Accurs.C3.A8d_Curios\|Autumn]] and [[Gorgeous#A_Lucrative_Trade_in_Horribly_Cursed_Curios\|Winter]] last year, and again [[Round_here#A_Cursed_Demand_Means_Accursed_Supply\|during the Spring Equinox]]. Innkeepers and hostelers all along the route between Crown's Quay and Anvil still mutter their name darkly, given the vague aura of misfortune that followed in their wake, and Sarcophan merchants often now encounter a cold welcome as a consequence.

Responsible1: /* Winter's Grasping Chains (Tharim) */

2023-08-01T21:15:49Z

Winter's Grasping Chains (Tharim)

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:15, 1 August 2023
Line 120:		Line 120:
	[[Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] continues to [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#Winter_Wards\|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. As long as the Bound King continues to be a [[Alignment#Amity\|friend of the Empire]], and an image of the eternal is displayed during Conclave sessions that is visible throughout the Hall of Worlds, the ward will persist. Unless they are responding to a [[Archmage#Parely\|parley]], heralds will be unable to enter the Hall if their master is under [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]], and those whose mater is [[Alignment#Neutrality\|neutral]] will not be able to cross the hall without an invitation from an Imperial magician.		[[Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] continues to [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#Winter_Wards\|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. As long as the Bound King continues to be a [[Alignment#Amity\|friend of the Empire]], and an image of the eternal is displayed during Conclave sessions that is visible throughout the Hall of Worlds, the ward will persist. Unless they are responding to a [[Archmage#Parely\|parley]], heralds will be unable to enter the Hall if their master is under [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]], and those whose mater is [[Alignment#Neutrality\|neutral]] will not be able to cross the hall without an invitation from an Imperial magician.

	Shortly before the Solstice, a grim-faced emissary in black-and-gold robes appears in the Hall of Worlds, one arm bound tightly to their body by bloody ropes. They bring a message from the Bound King's court. Apparently, over the last several seasons representatives of a [[~~Sacrophan~~ Delves]] family called the ''Alders-Baart'' have been visiting Anvil to sell accursed relics to Imperial collectors This isn't a secret; they attended during [[The_long_bench#Accurs.C3.A8d_Curios\|Autumn]] and [[Gorgeous#A_Lucrative_Trade_in_Horribly_Cursed_Curios\|Winter]] last year, and again [[Round_here#A_Cursed_Demand_Means_Accursed_Supply\|during the Spring Equinox]]. Innkeepers and hostelers all along the route between Crown's Quay and Anvil still mutter their name darkly, given the vague aura of misfortune that followed in their wake, and Sarcophan merchants often now encounter a cold welcome as a consequence.		Shortly before the Solstice, a grim-faced emissary in black-and-gold robes appears in the Hall of Worlds, one arm bound tightly to their body by bloody ropes. They bring a message from the Bound King's court. Apparently, over the last several seasons representatives of a [[Sarcophan Delves]] family called the ''Alders-Baart'' have been visiting Anvil to sell accursed relics to Imperial collectors This isn't a secret; they attended during [[The_long_bench#Accurs.C3.A8d_Curios\|Autumn]] and [[Gorgeous#A_Lucrative_Trade_in_Horribly_Cursed_Curios\|Winter]] last year, and again [[Round_here#A_Cursed_Demand_Means_Accursed_Supply\|during the Spring Equinox]]. Innkeepers and hostelers all along the route between Crown's Quay and Anvil still mutter their name darkly, given the vague aura of misfortune that followed in their wake, and Sarcophan merchants often now encounter a cold welcome as a consequence.

	Tharim views this trade as a craven attempt by the Alders-Baart to avoid the consequences of their actions and slip the bonds they wound around themselves. The emissary won't go into detail - the Sarcophan family knows what they did. Obviously, the ritual [[Tribute to the Thrice-Cursed Court]] is currently illegal to perform in the Empire, thanks to the Conclave's entirely understandable anger at the regrettable actions of the [[Skathe\|Hag Queen]]. However, were any of the accursèd curios to find their way to Tharim via this ritual, he would be able to untangle the magic of the curse the object bore, and ensure it is returned to where it belongs - in Sarcophan, at the estates of the Alders-Baart. Some of the objects are not actually [[magic items]], or their dweomer may have faded, but no matter. Tharim wants the items anyway, and the ritual ''will'' work on them, he is sure. Again, not that any Imperial citizen would want to cast it, but if the bulk of the curios slipped to Imperial collectors are found and dealt with in this fashion, Tharim would be grateful.		Tharim views this trade as a craven attempt by the Alders-Baart to avoid the consequences of their actions and slip the bonds they wound around themselves. The emissary won't go into detail - the Sarcophan family knows what they did. Obviously, the ritual [[Tribute to the Thrice-Cursed Court]] is currently illegal to perform in the Empire, thanks to the Conclave's entirely understandable anger at the regrettable actions of the [[Skathe\|Hag Queen]]. However, were any of the accursèd curios to find their way to Tharim via this ritual, he would be able to untangle the magic of the curse the object bore, and ensure it is returned to where it belongs - in Sarcophan, at the estates of the Alders-Baart. Some of the objects are not actually [[magic items]], or their dweomer may have faded, but no matter. Tharim wants the items anyway, and the ritual ''will'' work on them, he is sure. Again, not that any Imperial citizen would want to cast it, but if the bulk of the curios slipped to Imperial collectors are found and dealt with in this fashion, Tharim would be grateful.
Line 128:		Line 128:
	One ritual alone is unlikely to swing the pendulum in either direction, but if a sufficient number of items are either destroyed or offered as tribute, either the Court or the Alders-Baart are sure to show their gratitude to those involved.		One ritual alone is unlikely to swing the pendulum in either direction, but if a sufficient number of items are either destroyed or offered as tribute, either the Court or the Alders-Baart are sure to show their gratitude to those involved.
	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=YlenrithArt.jpg\|align=left\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=YlenrithArt.jpg\|align=left\|width=300}}</div>

	==A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe)==		==A Star at Twilight (Ylenwe)==
	* '''After meeting with the Archmage of Day, the eternal Ylenwe, once known as Ylenrith, has made offers of restitution for past poor behaviour'''		* '''After meeting with the Archmage of Day, the eternal Ylenwe, once known as Ylenrith, has made offers of restitution for past poor behaviour'''

Novemberalice at 11:15, 26 July 2023

2023-07-26T11:15:05Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:15, 26 July 2023
Line 1:		Line 1:
	[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]		[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:385YE Summer]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
	<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Four and Four.jpg\|caption=Sitting down to a diplomatic meeting with an eternal or their lieutenants can be a unique, and unsettling, experience.\|align=right\|width=600}}</div>		<div style="float:left; width: 600px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Four and Four.jpg\|caption=Sitting down to a diplomatic meeting with an eternal or their lieutenants can be a unique, and unsettling, experience.\|align=right\|width=600}}</div>
			{{audio\|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-taZ4Q1uWpc}}
	==Overview==		==Overview==
	The [[eternal\|eternals]] of the six realms engage in politics and diplomacy with the Empire just as the foreign nations do. While the [[archmage]] of each realm generally overlooks formal contact between the Empire and the eternals, those who have not been marked as [[alignment#enmity\|enemies]] can still send their heralds to bring messages on their behalf. Just as the barbarians beyond the borders can impact the lives of those who should be safe within them even those who have the enmity of the Conclave, who are designated enemies of the Empire, can sometimes influence Imperial citizens.		The [[eternal\|eternals]] of the six realms engage in politics and diplomacy with the Empire just as the foreign nations do. While the [[archmage]] of each realm generally overlooks formal contact between the Empire and the eternals, those who have not been marked as [[alignment#enmity\|enemies]] can still send their heralds to bring messages on their behalf. Just as the barbarians beyond the borders can impact the lives of those who should be safe within them even those who have the enmity of the Conclave, who are designated enemies of the Empire, can sometimes influence Imperial citizens.

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:40, 2 August 2023
Line 133:		Line 133:
	[[Ylenwe]] has been considered an [[Alignment#Enmity\|enemy of the Empire]] by the Imperial Conclave for some time now. During the Spring Equinox, the [[Archmage of Day]] '''Skywise Gralka''' [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Ylenrith\|met with the eternal]] to discuss the situation. Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] magician named ''Pia Diijksma'' who works at the ''Alivetti estates'' enclave in [[Caricomare]] delivers a message on behalf of ''the Dove'' which lays out several proposals to end the breach between the Empire and the ''Perfect Morning''. Of the four ways that the Archmage suggested the situation might be resolved, Ylenwe believes zie can do something concrete with half of them.		[[Ylenwe]] has been considered an [[Alignment#Enmity\|enemy of the Empire]] by the Imperial Conclave for some time now. During the Spring Equinox, the [[Archmage of Day]] '''Skywise Gralka''' [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Ylenrith\|met with the eternal]] to discuss the situation. Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] magician named ''Pia Diijksma'' who works at the ''Alivetti estates'' enclave in [[Caricomare]] delivers a message on behalf of ''the Dove'' which lays out several proposals to end the breach between the Empire and the ''Perfect Morning''. Of the four ways that the Archmage suggested the situation might be resolved, Ylenwe believes zie can do something concrete with half of them.
	* [[Abraxus_Stone#The_Swan.27s_Chalice\|The Swan's Chalice]] still exists, and Ylenwe would dearly like it to be back in the hands of an Imperial magician. Unfortunately, it is currently in the possession of a [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] of the [[Sarangrave]], who takes great pleasure in befouling it, yet the eternal is bound by covenant to renew its power each year. The Chalice is due to be renewed during the Autumn Equinox, but there may be a way for the Empire to recapture the item at that time. If the [[Imperial Conclave]] use a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]] to assign one of the [[Conclave order\|conclave orders]] to serve as an escort for the herald zie sends, then once the item is renewed they could take it from the disgusting ghulai. Zie cannot assure an opening of the [[Sentinel Gate]] but believes if the connection was made, fate would do the rest. It would, however, be necessary to remove the enmity before the Chalice was returned to [[Anvil]] lest the magistrates (rightly) immediately seize and destroy it. What happened to the Chalice after that would be a matter for the Conclave to discuss.		* [[Abraxus_Stone#The_Swan.27s_Chalice\|The Swan's Chalice]] still exists, and Ylenwe would dearly like it to be back in the hands of an Imperial magician. Unfortunately, it is currently in the possession of a [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] of the [[Sarangrave]], who takes great pleasure in befouling it, yet the eternal is bound by covenant to renew its power each year. The Chalice is due to be renewed during the Autumn Equinox, but there may be a way for the Empire to recapture the item at that time. If the [[Imperial Conclave]] use a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]] to assign one of the [[Conclave order\|conclave orders]] to serve as an escort for the herald zie sends, then once the item is renewed they could take it from the disgusting ghulai. Zie cannot assure an opening of the [[Sentinel Gate]] but believes if the connection was made, fate would do the rest. It would, however, be necessary to remove the enmity before the Chalice was returned to [[Anvil]] lest the magistrates (rightly) immediately seize and destroy it. What happened to the Chalice after that would be a matter for the Conclave to discuss.
	* The Archmage mentioned the [[Blood will thicken\|grand project to build a beacon of the Way]] in the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|White City]]. Zie is interested, especially in the possibility of including beautiful belltowers that would celebrate the faith of the people visiting the city. Ylenwe is cautious however; would the aid zie offers even be acceptable to the priests of the Empire? If the Conclave removes the enmity, ~~and~~ and the General Assembly or the Highborn National Assembly use a [[statement of principle]] to invite Ylenwe to offer support to the project, zie will gladly take part.		* The Archmage mentioned the [[Blood will thicken\|grand project to build a beacon of the Way]] in the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|White City]]. Zie is interested, especially in the possibility of including beautiful belltowers that would celebrate the faith of the people visiting the city. Ylenwe is cautious however; would the aid zie offers even be acceptable to the priests of the Empire? If the Conclave removes the enmity, and the General Assembly or the Highborn National Assembly use a [[statement of principle]] to invite Ylenwe to offer support to the project, zie will gladly take part.
	* The shield, [[Champion_of_Pride#Regalia_of_the_Champion_of_Pride\|Ajax]], borne by the [[Champion of Pride]] is cursed by the [[Druj]]. There are two obvious ways to remove the curse. One could ask the eternal responsible for the curse directly, which zie believes is most likely [[Arhallogen]]. Alternatively, as analysis of the shield reveals, the waters of a certain spring, precious to an eternal the Empire [[Alignment#Enmity\|placed under enmity]] many years ago, will wash it away. Zie warns however that in the process of cleansing the shield, the waters will become fouled by the curse, potentially permanently. Whoever undertakes this task must consider carefully how to avoid destroying the precious spring - unless their goal is to infuriate the eternal who oversees it. Ylenwe cannot in good conscience help the Empire trespass on the spring in question, and urges the appropriate Archmage to request access directly from the one who owns it.		* The shield, [[Champion_of_Pride#Regalia_of_the_Champion_of_Pride\|Ajax]], borne by the [[Champion of Pride]] is cursed by the [[Druj]]. There are two obvious ways to remove the curse. One could ask the eternal responsible for the curse directly, which zie believes is most likely [[Arhallogen]]. Alternatively, as analysis of the shield reveals, the waters of a certain spring, precious to an eternal the Empire [[Alignment#Enmity\|placed under enmity]] many years ago, will wash it away. Zie warns however that in the process of cleansing the shield, the waters will become fouled by the curse, potentially permanently. Whoever undertakes this task must consider carefully how to avoid destroying the precious spring - unless their goal is to infuriate the eternal who oversees it. Ylenwe cannot in good conscience help the Empire trespass on the spring in question, and urges the appropriate Archmage to request access directly from the one who owns it.
	* On the matter of the shards of music being sought by Imperial citizens Ylenwe is unable to offer much concrete support. Zie knows that each fragment was somewhere in Anvil during the Spring Equinox, and believes the same will be true at the Summer Solstice. Zie also knows that someone has the capacity to make contact with the ''unpredictable mage of forgotten days who took the power of the stars and wove a prison from it'' who can almost certainly provide any missing pieces, but unfortunately not who they are or how they might be contacted. Zie does know one thing though which zie hopes may be of use to Imperial magicians; while the music might be found and reassembled, as resonances of the constellations themselves, the Lock and the Key must be in agreement to their power being drawn through the playing of that music. Such agreement is likely to coincide to when events or actions in the world below resonate with their nature. All statements which may mean more to astronomancers, or those involved in pursuing the musical shards.		* On the matter of the shards of music being sought by Imperial citizens Ylenwe is unable to offer much concrete support. Zie knows that each fragment was somewhere in Anvil during the Spring Equinox, and believes the same will be true at the Summer Solstice. Zie also knows that someone has the capacity to make contact with the ''unpredictable mage of forgotten days who took the power of the stars and wove a prison from it'' who can almost certainly provide any missing pieces, but unfortunately not who they are or how they might be contacted. Zie does know one thing though which zie hopes may be of use to Imperial magicians; while the music might be found and reassembled, as resonances of the constellations themselves, the Lock and the Key must be in agreement to their power being drawn through the playing of that music. Such agreement is likely to coincide to when events or actions in the world below resonate with their nature. All statements which may mean more to astronomancers, or those involved in pursuing the musical shards.

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:28, 2 August 2023
Line 120:		Line 120:
	[[Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] continues to [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#Winter_Wards\|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. As long as the Bound King continues to be a [[Alignment#Amity\|friend of the Empire]], and an image of the eternal is displayed during Conclave sessions that is visible throughout the Hall of Worlds, the ward will persist. Unless they are responding to a [[Archmage#Parely\|parley]], heralds will be unable to enter the Hall if their master is under [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]], and those whose master is [[Alignment#Neutrality\|neutral]] will not be able to cross the hall without an invitation from an Imperial magician.		[[Tharim]] of [[the Thrice-cursed Court]] continues to [[You_can%27t_count_on_me#Winter_Wards\|ward the Hall of Worlds]] from intrusion by heralds. As long as the Bound King continues to be a [[Alignment#Amity\|friend of the Empire]], and an image of the eternal is displayed during Conclave sessions that is visible throughout the Hall of Worlds, the ward will persist. Unless they are responding to a [[Archmage#Parely\|parley]], heralds will be unable to enter the Hall if their master is under [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]], and those whose master is [[Alignment#Neutrality\|neutral]] will not be able to cross the hall without an invitation from an Imperial magician.

	Shortly before the Solstice, a grim-faced emissary in black-and-gold robes appears in the Hall of Worlds, one arm bound tightly to their body by bloody ropes. They bring a message from the Bound King's court. Apparently, over the last several seasons representatives of a [[Sarcophan Delves]] family called the ''Alders-Baart'' have been visiting Anvil to sell accursed relics to Imperial collectors This isn't a secret; they attended during [[The_long_bench#Accurs.C3.A8d_Curios\|Autumn]] and [[Gorgeous#A_Lucrative_Trade_in_Horribly_Cursed_Curios\|Winter]] last year, and again [[Round_here#A_Cursed_Demand_Means_Accursed_Supply\|during the Spring Equinox]]. Innkeepers and hostelers all along the route between Crown's Quay and Anvil still mutter their name darkly, given the vague aura of misfortune that followed in their wake, and Sarcophan merchants often now encounter a cold welcome as a consequence.		Shortly before the Solstice, a grim-faced emissary in black-and-gold robes appears in the Hall of Worlds, one arm bound tightly to their body by bloody ropes. They bring a message from the Bound King's court. Apparently, over the last several seasons representatives of a [[Sarcophan Delves]] family called the ''Alders-Baart'' have been visiting Anvil to sell accursed relics to Imperial collectors. This isn't a secret; they attended during [[The_long_bench#Accurs.C3.A8d_Curios\|Autumn]] and [[Gorgeous#A_Lucrative_Trade_in_Horribly_Cursed_Curios\|Winter]] last year, and again [[Round_here#A_Cursed_Demand_Means_Accursed_Supply\|during the Spring Equinox]]. Innkeepers and hostelers all along the route between Crown's Quay and Anvil still mutter their name darkly, given the vague aura of misfortune that followed in their wake, and Sarcophan merchants often now encounter a cold welcome as a consequence.

	Tharim views this trade as a craven attempt by the Alders-Baart to avoid the consequences of their actions and slip the bonds they wound around themselves. The emissary won't go into detail - the Sarcophan family knows what they did. Obviously, the ritual [[Tribute to the Thrice-Cursed Court]] is currently illegal to perform in the Empire, thanks to the Conclave's entirely understandable anger at the regrettable actions of the [[Skathe\|Hag Queen]]. However, were any of the accursèd curios to find their way to Tharim via this ritual, he would be able to untangle the magic of the curse the object bore, and ensure it is returned to where it belongs - in Sarcophan, at the estates of the Alders-Baart. Some of the objects are not actually [[magic items]], or their dweomer may have faded, but no matter. Tharim wants the items anyway, and the ritual ''will'' work on them, he is sure. Again, not that any Imperial citizen would want to cast it, but if the bulk of the curios slipped to Imperial collectors are found and dealt with in this fashion, Tharim would be grateful.		Tharim views this trade as a craven attempt by the Alders-Baart to avoid the consequences of their actions and slip the bonds they wound around themselves. The emissary won't go into detail - the Sarcophan family knows what they did. Obviously, the ritual [[Tribute to the Thrice-Cursed Court]] is currently illegal to perform in the Empire, thanks to the Conclave's entirely understandable anger at the regrettable actions of the [[Skathe\|Hag Queen]]. However, were any of the accursèd curios to find their way to Tharim via this ritual, he would be able to untangle the magic of the curse the object bore, and ensure it is returned to where it belongs - in Sarcophan, at the estates of the Alders-Baart. Some of the objects are not actually [[magic items]], or their dweomer may have faded, but no matter. Tharim wants the items anyway, and the ritual ''will'' work on them, he is sure. Again, not that any Imperial citizen would want to cast it, but if the bulk of the curios slipped to Imperial collectors are found and dealt with in this fashion, Tharim would be grateful.

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:02, 15 January 2026
Line 5:		Line 5:
	The [[eternal\|eternals]] of the six realms engage in politics and diplomacy with the Empire just as the foreign nations do. While the [[archmage]] of each realm generally overlooks formal contact between the Empire and the eternals, those who have not been marked as [[alignment#enmity\|enemies]] can still send their heralds to bring messages on their behalf. Just as the barbarians beyond the borders can impact the lives of those who should be safe within them even those who have the enmity of the Conclave, who are designated enemies of the Empire, can sometimes influence Imperial citizens.		The [[eternal\|eternals]] of the six realms engage in politics and diplomacy with the Empire just as the foreign nations do. While the [[archmage]] of each realm generally overlooks formal contact between the Empire and the eternals, those who have not been marked as [[alignment#enmity\|enemies]] can still send their heralds to bring messages on their behalf. Just as the barbarians beyond the borders can impact the lives of those who should be safe within them even those who have the enmity of the Conclave, who are designated enemies of the Empire, can sometimes influence Imperial citizens.

	These eternals love to meddle in Imperial affairs, sometimes via the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]], sometimes directly with Imperial citizens. Sometimes they offer opportunities - agreements that benefit the Empire just as much as the eternal. Sometimes they present problems, and working out a way to overcome the challenges they create can tax even the most cunning mind.		These eternals love to meddle in Imperial affairs, sometimes via the [[Conclave]], sometimes directly with Imperial citizens. Sometimes they offer opportunities - agreements that benefit the Empire just as much as the eternal. Sometimes they present problems, and working out a way to overcome the challenges they create can tax even the most cunning mind.

	And while most interactions involve diplomacy and negotiation, some spill over into violence, and need a group of Imperial heroes to ensure a bad situation does not get worse.		And while most interactions involve diplomacy and negotiation, some spill over into violence, and need a group of Imperial heroes to ensure a bad situation does not get worse.
Line 34:		Line 34:
	So far only General Aracelis has invited the heralds of Janon to fight alongside their army. Those heralds have told anyone that will listen that the warrior-spirits of the Shadowed Flame seek the opportunity to get to know the Empire better by fighting alongside armies from every nation. Any general who includes in their [[General#Command_of_an_army\|orders]] that they invite Janon's warriors to join them for a season will find a cadre of heralds accompany their soldiers after the Summer Solstice until the start of the Autumn Equinox. The score or so of midnight-blue warriors that fought with the Burning Flame were noticeable, but didn't have much impact on the actual outcome of the battle. They're enthusiastic fighters, burning alternately with fury at the Jotun and love for the Freeborn soldiers they fight beside, but nothing to the scale of a thousand [[Knights of Glory]]. Still, the offer is there if they wish to take advantage of it.		So far only General Aracelis has invited the heralds of Janon to fight alongside their army. Those heralds have told anyone that will listen that the warrior-spirits of the Shadowed Flame seek the opportunity to get to know the Empire better by fighting alongside armies from every nation. Any general who includes in their [[General#Command_of_an_army\|orders]] that they invite Janon's warriors to join them for a season will find a cadre of heralds accompany their soldiers after the Summer Solstice until the start of the Autumn Equinox. The score or so of midnight-blue warriors that fought with the Burning Flame were noticeable, but didn't have much impact on the actual outcome of the battle. They're enthusiastic fighters, burning alternately with fury at the Jotun and love for the Freeborn soldiers they fight beside, but nothing to the scale of a thousand [[Knights of Glory]]. Still, the offer is there if they wish to take advantage of it.

	A Freeborn magician of the [[Unfettered Mind]] named ''Lecta i Telamon i Riqueza'' who fought with the Burning Falcon points out that while Janon's heralds are far too undisciplined to work well fighting beside an army in any great numbers, assuming the eternal can even field that many warriors, there is an interesting alternative. If the eternal could be convinced to allow it, a ritual similar to [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] might be created that would let Janon send his warriors to fight effectively alongside a [[military unit\|smaller military force]]. Of course, in addition to the challenge of getting Janon to agree to such a thing, there might be an additional challenge in that the eternal is notoriously volatile - even more so than [[Eleonaris]] - and through Imperial history has regularly been the subject of the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave\|Conclave's]] [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]]. But the innate [[Night_magic#Dissonance\|dissonances]] of [[Night magic]] means it offers precious few ways for its magicians to support Imperial armies, and there are any number of Imperial captains who would appreciate a cadre of volatile, violent, furious, passionate fighters battling alongside their troops. One for the [[Archmage of Night]] to consider, perhaps.		A Freeborn magician of the [[Unfettered Mind]] named ''Lecta i Telamon i Riqueza'' who fought with the Burning Falcon points out that while Janon's heralds are far too undisciplined to work well fighting beside an army in any great numbers, assuming the eternal can even field that many warriors, there is an interesting alternative. If the eternal could be convinced to allow it, a ritual similar to [[Clarion Call of Ivory and Dust]] might be created that would let Janon send his warriors to fight effectively alongside a [[military unit\|smaller military force]]. Of course, in addition to the challenge of getting Janon to agree to such a thing, there might be an additional challenge in that the eternal is notoriously volatile - even more so than [[Eleonaris]] - and through Imperial history has regularly been the subject of the [[Conclave\|Conclave's]] [[Alignment#Enmity\|enmity]]. But the innate [[Night_magic#Dissonance\|dissonances]] of [[Night magic]] means it offers precious few ways for its magicians to support Imperial armies, and there are any number of Imperial captains who would appreciate a cadre of volatile, violent, furious, passionate fighters battling alongside their troops. One for the [[Archmage of Night]] to consider, perhaps.
	===An Unquenchable Flame===		===An Unquenchable Flame===
	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''True Conviction'''</big>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: right;"><box><big>'''True Conviction'''</big>
Line 132:		Line 132:
	* '''After meeting with the Archmage of Day, the eternal Ylenwe, once known as Ylenrith, has made offers of restitution for past poor behaviour'''		* '''After meeting with the Archmage of Day, the eternal Ylenwe, once known as Ylenrith, has made offers of restitution for past poor behaviour'''
	[[Ylenwe]] has been considered an [[Alignment#Enmity\|enemy of the Empire]] by the Imperial Conclave for some time now. During the Spring Equinox, the [[Archmage of Day]] '''Skywise Gralka''' [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Ylenrith\|met with the eternal]] to discuss the situation. Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] magician named ''Pia Diijksma'' who works at the ''Alivetti estates'' enclave in [[Caricomare]] delivers a message on behalf of ''the Dove'' which lays out several proposals to end the breach between the Empire and the ''Perfect Morning''. Of the four ways that the Archmage suggested the situation might be resolved, Ylenwe believes zie can do something concrete with half of them.		[[Ylenwe]] has been considered an [[Alignment#Enmity\|enemy of the Empire]] by the Imperial Conclave for some time now. During the Spring Equinox, the [[Archmage of Day]] '''Skywise Gralka''' [[Have_you_seen_me_lately#Ylenrith\|met with the eternal]] to discuss the situation. Shortly after the Spring Equinox, a [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]] magician named ''Pia Diijksma'' who works at the ''Alivetti estates'' enclave in [[Caricomare]] delivers a message on behalf of ''the Dove'' which lays out several proposals to end the breach between the Empire and the ''Perfect Morning''. Of the four ways that the Archmage suggested the situation might be resolved, Ylenwe believes zie can do something concrete with half of them.
	* [[Abraxus_Stone#The_Swan.27s_Chalice\|The Swan's Chalice]] still exists, and Ylenwe would dearly like it to be back in the hands of an Imperial magician. Unfortunately, it is currently in the possession of a [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] of the [[Sarangrave]], who takes great pleasure in befouling it, yet the eternal is bound by covenant to renew its power each year. The Chalice is due to be renewed during the Autumn Equinox, but there may be a way for the Empire to recapture the item at that time. If the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]] use a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]] to assign one of the [[Conclave order\|conclave orders]] to serve as an escort for the herald zie sends, then once the item is renewed they could take it from the disgusting ghulai. Zie cannot assure an opening of the [[Sentinel Gate]] but believes if the connection was made, fate would do the rest. It would, however, be necessary to remove the enmity before the Chalice was returned to [[Anvil]] lest the magistrates (rightly) immediately seize and destroy it. What happened to the Chalice after that would be a matter for the Conclave to discuss.		* [[Abraxus_Stone#The_Swan.27s_Chalice\|The Swan's Chalice]] still exists, and Ylenwe would dearly like it to be back in the hands of an Imperial magician. Unfortunately, it is currently in the possession of a [[Druj]] [[Druj_lore#Ghulai\|ghulai]] of the [[Sarangrave]], who takes great pleasure in befouling it, yet the eternal is bound by covenant to renew its power each year. The Chalice is due to be renewed during the Autumn Equinox, but there may be a way for the Empire to recapture the item at that time. If the [[Conclave]] use a [[declaration]] of [[Concord]] to assign one of the [[Conclave order\|conclave orders]] to serve as an escort for the herald zie sends, then once the item is renewed they could take it from the disgusting ghulai. Zie cannot assure an opening of the [[Sentinel Gate]] but believes if the connection was made, fate would do the rest. It would, however, be necessary to remove the enmity before the Chalice was returned to [[Anvil]] lest the magistrates (rightly) immediately seize and destroy it. What happened to the Chalice after that would be a matter for the Conclave to discuss.
	* The Archmage mentioned the [[Blood will thicken\|grand project to build a beacon of the Way]] in the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|White City]]. Zie is interested, especially in the possibility of including beautiful belltowers that would celebrate the faith of the people visiting the city. Ylenwe is cautious however; would the aid zie offers even be acceptable to the priests of the Empire? If the Conclave removes the enmity, and the General Assembly or the Highborn National Assembly use a [[statement of principle]] to invite Ylenwe to offer support to the project, zie will gladly take part.		* The Archmage mentioned the [[Blood will thicken\|grand project to build a beacon of the Way]] in the [[Bastion#Bastion.2C_the_White_City\|White City]]. Zie is interested, especially in the possibility of including beautiful belltowers that would celebrate the faith of the people visiting the city. Ylenwe is cautious however; would the aid zie offers even be acceptable to the priests of the Empire? If the Conclave removes the enmity, and the General Assembly or the Highborn National Assembly use a [[statement of principle]] to invite Ylenwe to offer support to the project, zie will gladly take part.
	* The shield, [[Champion_of_Pride#Regalia_of_the_Champion_of_Pride\|Ajax]], borne by the [[Champion of Pride]] is cursed by the [[Druj]]. There are two obvious ways to remove the curse. One could ask the eternal responsible for the curse directly, which zie believes is most likely [[Arhallogen]]. Alternatively, as analysis of the shield reveals, the waters of a certain spring, precious to an eternal the Empire [[Alignment#Enmity\|placed under enmity]] many years ago, will wash it away. Zie warns however that in the process of cleansing the shield, the waters will become fouled by the curse, potentially permanently. Whoever undertakes this task must consider carefully how to avoid destroying the precious spring - unless their goal is to infuriate the eternal who oversees it. Ylenwe cannot in good conscience help the Empire trespass on the spring in question, and urges the appropriate Archmage to request access directly from the one who owns it.		* The shield, [[Champion_of_Pride#Regalia_of_the_Champion_of_Pride\|Ajax]], borne by the [[Champion of Pride]] is cursed by the [[Druj]]. There are two obvious ways to remove the curse. One could ask the eternal responsible for the curse directly, which zie believes is most likely [[Arhallogen]]. Alternatively, as analysis of the shield reveals, the waters of a certain spring, precious to an eternal the Empire [[Alignment#Enmity\|placed under enmity]] many years ago, will wash it away. Zie warns however that in the process of cleansing the shield, the waters will become fouled by the curse, potentially permanently. Whoever undertakes this task must consider carefully how to avoid destroying the precious spring - unless their goal is to infuriate the eternal who oversees it. Ylenwe cannot in good conscience help the Empire trespass on the spring in question, and urges the appropriate Archmage to request access directly from the one who owns it.