Lit up - Revision history

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

2026-01-16T09:41:25Z

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

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:41, 16 January 2026
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	* '''Members of the Illarawm sept have spent the last three months as guests in Fioroult'''		* '''Members of the Illarawm sept have spent the last three months as guests in Fioroult'''
	* '''Last season, the Senate passed a law protecting turtles in the Bay of Catazar'''		* '''Last season, the Senate passed a law protecting turtles in the Bay of Catazar'''
	Last season [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]] presented an [[appraisal]] on how the uncooperative inhabitants of the southern regions might be [[Here to stay\|convinced to work alongside the Empire]] - or at least, not actively work with the Grendel. The work of ''Bonesung Reller'', an [[Illarawm]] visiting [[Mareave#Eoradal\|Eoradal]] pointed out that the elders of the Brine Turtles were frightened and angry. Frightened of the fact that, without their [[~~Imperial army~~\|army]], the Empire could crush them without missing a step, and angry that the salt lords had effectively abandoned the territory to seek riches across the [[Bay of Catazar]].		Last season [[Appraisal#Eilian_Sweetwater\|Eilian Sweetwater]] presented an [[appraisal]] on how the uncooperative inhabitants of the southern regions might be [[Here to stay\|convinced to work alongside the Empire]] - or at least, not actively work with the Grendel. The work of ''Bonesung Reller'', an [[Illarawm]] visiting [[Mareave#Eoradal\|Eoradal]] pointed out that the elders of the Brine Turtles were frightened and angry. Frightened of the fact that, without their [[Army\|army]], the Empire could crush them without missing a step, and angry that the salt lords had effectively abandoned the territory to seek riches across the [[Bay of Catazar]].

	Eilian suggested that the Imperial Senate could [[Here_to_stay#Turtles_all_the_Way_Down\|make it illegal to hunt or harm turtles]] in the Bay of Catazar. At the same time, the Imperial Orc Assembly requested that the Illarawm visit Fioroult, in [[Mareave#Fleisardh\|Fleisardh]], to begin to pave the way for negotiations with the sept to Brine Turtles to begin. Their efforts have borne fruit, and this summit possibly presents the best chance for discussion to begin with the orcs of the Broken Shore.		Eilian suggested that the Imperial Senate could [[Here_to_stay#Turtles_all_the_Way_Down\|make it illegal to hunt or harm turtles]] in the Bay of Catazar. At the same time, the Imperial Orc Assembly requested that the Illarawm visit Fioroult, in [[Mareave#Fleisardh\|Fleisardh]], to begin to pave the way for negotiations with the sept to Brine Turtles to begin. Their efforts have borne fruit, and this summit possibly presents the best chance for discussion to begin with the orcs of the Broken Shore.

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

2026-01-15T13:27:08Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:27, 15 January 2026
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	Instead of building a small lodge for the order, why not build something really impressive, the thinking goes? If the Golden Pyramid were given control of the old garrison compound, they could rebuild it into something big enough to house almost any number of the order's wizards. It would be expensive to build and maintain of course, but it would allow the order to extend economic cooperation right across that territory, providing magicians to support mines, mana sites and businesses throughout the Mareave. Crucially the order would be on hand to provide vital support for the workers in the [[Fundindelve]] boosting production in the mines ''and'' providing the order with a small income of incredibly valuable mithril each season.		Instead of building a small lodge for the order, why not build something really impressive, the thinking goes? If the Golden Pyramid were given control of the old garrison compound, they could rebuild it into something big enough to house almost any number of the order's wizards. It would be expensive to build and maintain of course, but it would allow the order to extend economic cooperation right across that territory, providing magicians to support mines, mana sites and businesses throughout the Mareave. Crucially the order would be on hand to provide vital support for the workers in the [[Fundindelve]] boosting production in the mines ''and'' providing the order with a small income of incredibly valuable mithril each season.

	All this trade would be good for individual magicians as well. Magicians of the order would enjoy a small personal boost in income for a year after the grand lodge was complete, and the gain in skills and services would provide a permanent benefit to the resources that the order supported. A grand lodge is not cheap to operate, it would cost the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate]] 5 thrones a season in upkeep - but the Golden Pyramid are the most mercantile order in the Conclave - having such a massive presence in the territory, working to boosting the local economy would increase taxation, so it would be a net ''gain'' for the Imperial Senate.		All this trade would be good for individual magicians as well. Magicians of the order would enjoy a small personal boost in income for a year after the grand lodge was complete, and the gain in skills and services would provide a permanent benefit to the resources that the order supported. A grand lodge is not cheap to operate, it would cost the [[Senate]] 5 thrones a season in upkeep - but the Golden Pyramid are the most mercantile order in the Conclave - having such a massive presence in the territory, working to boosting the local economy would increase taxation, so it would be a net ''gain'' for the Imperial Senate.

	Part of the plan involves relocating all the order's mana brokers to the new grand lodge. Currently most orders have their [[Grandmaster#Funding_the_Order\|mana purchasing arrangements]] spread across the Empire, but they are primarily located in the big [[the League\|League]] cities. That's fine, but prices can get expensive their quickly. By moving all the operations to the new grand lodge, the order could cut their costs and benefit from cheap prices for mana in the territory. No more having to compete with wealthy League troupes and savvy [[Merchant Prince\|merchant princes]] when buying mana. It's not all positive - operations here would be vulnerable if the grand lodge was overrun, and it wouldn't be possible to buy as many mana crystals as it is when buying across the Empire - but it would definitely save money on every mana crystal bought.		Part of the plan involves relocating all the order's mana brokers to the new grand lodge. Currently most orders have their [[Grandmaster#Funding_the_Order\|mana purchasing arrangements]] spread across the Empire, but they are primarily located in the big [[the League\|League]] cities. That's fine, but prices can get expensive their quickly. By moving all the operations to the new grand lodge, the order could cut their costs and benefit from cheap prices for mana in the territory. No more having to compete with wealthy League troupes and savvy [[Merchant Prince\|merchant princes]] when buying mana. It's not all positive - operations here would be vulnerable if the grand lodge was overrun, and it wouldn't be possible to buy as many mana crystals as it is when buying across the Empire - but it would definitely save money on every mana crystal bought.

Twiggy at 21:22, 30 July 2025

2025-07-30T21:22:18Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:22, 30 July 2025
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	* [[We all stand]] - 386YE Autumn wind of fortune detailing various contributions to the prosperity of Mareave		* [[We all stand]] - 386YE Autumn wind of fortune detailing various contributions to the prosperity of Mareave
	* [[Digging for fire]] - 386YE Summer wind of fortune detailing the Golden Pyramid contribution in Mareave		* [[Digging for fire]] - 386YE Summer wind of fortune detailing the Golden Pyramid contribution in Mareave
	* [[Into the spin]] – 386YE Spring wind of fortune ~~summarizing~~ the situation in Mareave		* [[Into the spin]] – 386YE Spring wind of fortune summarising the situation in Mareave

Hailmur at 10:02, 23 April 2025

2025-04-23T10:02:42Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:02, 23 April 2025
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	If, instead, the Empire were to plan to [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift\|dig a tunnel]] and steal the water from the Skourans, then taking the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer would not be the best idea. Granting them intimate access to a citadel or fortification would be risky if the Empire then stole a precious resource from their nation. It is not clear how they would react in those circumstances.		If, instead, the Empire were to plan to [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift\|dig a tunnel]] and steal the water from the Skourans, then taking the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer would not be the best idea. Granting them intimate access to a citadel or fortification would be risky if the Empire then stole a precious resource from their nation. It is not clear how they would react in those circumstances.
			==Conjunctions==
	{{SOP\|by=Skywise Gralka, Imperial Orc Assembly\|statement=Light in the darkness. Urizen it is with Pride that the Imperial Orcs invite your people into Mareave in order to allow them chance to discover histories lost to them. There is worth in this act and our people know more than any a loss of history and what that means. Shine bright Urizen. Be witness to your ancestors worth in our lands - we invite you with all our virtue.\|vote=54-0\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}		{{SOP\|by=Skywise Gralka, Imperial Orc Assembly\|statement=Light in the darkness. Urizen it is with Pride that the Imperial Orcs invite your people into Mareave in order to allow them chance to discover histories lost to them. There is worth in this act and our people know more than any a loss of history and what that means. Shine bright Urizen. Be witness to your ancestors worth in our lands - we invite you with all our virtue.\|vote=54-0\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
			===The Figurehead===
	==The Figurehead ~~(Conjunction)~~==
	* '''A Grendel paymaster is meeting with mercenaries of the Broken Shore to fund attacks on the Imperial Orcs'''		* '''A Grendel paymaster is meeting with mercenaries of the Broken Shore to fund attacks on the Imperial Orcs'''
	* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely\|combat highly likely]] encounter'''		* '''This skirmish is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Highly_Likely\|combat highly likely]] encounter'''
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	The researchers are unable to intervene in the meeting, so they have asked the [[Minister of Historical Research]], '''Silk Farkas''', to take responsibility for killing the Grendel. There is no guarantee that anything relating to ''Stormcaller'' will be there, but given the connection to the artefact and the location it is likely that Urizen and Imperial Orcs will both be interested in the conjunction.		The researchers are unable to intervene in the meeting, so they have asked the [[Minister of Historical Research]], '''Silk Farkas''', to take responsibility for killing the Grendel. There is no guarantee that anything relating to ''Stormcaller'' will be there, but given the connection to the artefact and the location it is likely that Urizen and Imperial Orcs will both be interested in the conjunction.

			===Note from the Palace===
			* '''The ''Salt Shaker'' is struggling in a storm off the coast of Mareave'''
			* '''This is a [[Accessibility#Combat_Unlikely_or_Contained\|combat unlikely]] encounter'''
			* '''The ''Senator for Mareave'' is [[Sentinel_Gate#Prognostication\|responsible]] for ensuring the safety of the crew'''
			{{InnocentPeoplePresent}}
			A few days before the Winter Solstice, an unforeseen storm begins to batter the coast of Mareave. Most ships make it back to port, some limping and worse for wear, but others are stranded. One ship, the ''Salt Shaker'', is the pride and joy of Lord Ehsan of Beoraidh's merchant fleet.

			There are many warnings about willingly going into the storms off Mareave; there are rumours of strange creatures brought to the surface, of eerie sounds that call out to travellers, and of the unquiet dead seeking to bring more to their resting place. ''Lord Ehsan'' asks that the Senator for Mareave, '''Gaddak''', do what they can to ensure the safety of the crew of the ''Salt Shaker'', so they can bring his treasured ship back to port. If Gaddak can manage that then Lord Ehsan will send a small monetary gift after the summit in thanks.

	==Further Reading==		==Further Reading==

Hailmur: /* Golden Opportunity */

2025-04-22T22:41:42Z

Golden Opportunity

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:41, 22 April 2025
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	This idea would incorporate the ideas for the [[Here_to_stay#Hollow_Prestige\|Clisearn Grand Market]], so it would ''not'' be possible to build this and the market, but it would provide the same intangible benefit that the market offered. It would demonstrate the strength of Imperial commitment to the region but also help the Clisearn families see the benefits of working with the Empire rather than opposing them. They would not automatically become friends to the Empire, but their own self interest would see them cease their [[Region_qualities#Uncooperative\|open opposition]]. It cannot be denied that having a powerful Conclave Order establish their base of power in Clisearn appeals to the families here; it would certainly boost their own prestige.		This idea would incorporate the ideas for the [[Here_to_stay#Hollow_Prestige\|Clisearn Grand Market]], so it would ''not'' be possible to build this and the market, but it would provide the same intangible benefit that the market offered. It would demonstrate the strength of Imperial commitment to the region but also help the Clisearn families see the benefits of working with the Empire rather than opposing them. They would not automatically become friends to the Empire, but their own self interest would see them cease their [[Region_qualities#Uncooperative\|open opposition]]. It cannot be denied that having a powerful Conclave Order establish their base of power in Clisearn appeals to the families here; it would certainly boost their own prestige.

	Of course such a massive operation would be expensive, but there is one way the order might be able to reduce the costs. By working closely with the Imperial Orcs, and tailoring their proposals to ensure that they were also of benefit to their hosts, the Golden Pyramid could take advantage of the [[The_Ambition_of_Thrace#Building_a_Nation_(Skarsind)\|inspiration of Thrace]], reducing basic labour costs to zero and requiring only 36 crowns to pay for the additional costs for work in Mareave caused by its [[Region_qualities#Under-developed\|poor connections to the rest of the Empire]]. Perhaps the order and the nation might even be able to fund the commission together, sharing the financial and political costs to get it arranged.		Of course such a massive operation would be expensive, but there is one way the order might be able to reduce the costs. By working closely with the Imperial Orcs, and tailoring their proposals to ensure that they were also of benefit to their hosts, the Golden Pyramid could take advantage of the [[The_Ambition_of_Thrace#Building_a_Nation_(Skarsind)\|inspiration of Thrace]], reducing basic labour costs to zero and requiring only 60 crowns to pay for the additional costs for work in Mareave caused by its [[Region_qualities#Under-developed\|poor connections to the rest of the Empire]]. Perhaps the order and the nation might even be able to fund the commission together, sharing the financial and political costs to get it arranged.

	Working with the Imperial Orcs would benefit them as well. The boost in production of local [[mine\|mines]], [[business\|businesses]], and [[mana site\|mana sites]] would cause ''Delving Market'', the local site for exchange in metals and orders to rapidly grow to accommodate all the new trade. The commission could include instructions to the civil service to arrange to appoint an Imperial Orc position to oversee the market. The ''Bonesetter of the Delving Market'' would be responsible for the market, as well as supporting the miners throughout Mareave. In return, they would receive a small income in fees and dues; of ten crowns each season, which they choose to spend purchasing ingots if they wished.		Working with the Imperial Orcs would benefit them as well. The boost in production of local [[mine\|mines]], [[business\|businesses]], and [[mana site\|mana sites]] would cause ''Delving Market'', the local site for exchange in metals and orders to rapidly grow to accommodate all the new trade. The commission could include instructions to the civil service to arrange to appoint an Imperial Orc position to oversee the market. The ''Bonesetter of the Delving Market'' would be responsible for the market, as well as supporting the miners throughout Mareave. In return, they would receive a small income in fees and dues; of ten crowns each season, which they choose to spend purchasing ingots if they wished.

Noserenda: /* Mercenaries of Skoura */

2025-04-22T18:02:41Z

Mercenaries of Skoura

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:02, 22 April 2025
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	If the Empire plans to make a deal with the Skourans for access to their [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Fair_Trade\|water]] then hiring the garrison could bring even closer ties with the eastern nation. The Skourans are masters of siegecraft, both the building of deepholds and (as seen in various encounters between Imperial and Skouran mercenaries on foreign battlefields), the breaking of walls. Stories of their pragmatic, single-minded focus on ensuring the death of those who would take their land are spoken of in the most casual way, alongside their careful approach to achieving victory with the fewest casualties among their own number possible.		If the Empire plans to make a deal with the Skourans for access to their [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Fair_Trade\|water]] then hiring the garrison could bring even closer ties with the eastern nation. The Skourans are masters of siegecraft, both the building of deepholds and (as seen in various encounters between Imperial and Skouran mercenaries on foreign battlefields), the breaking of walls. Stories of their pragmatic, single-minded focus on ensuring the death of those who would take their land are spoken of in the most casual way, alongside their careful approach to achieving victory with the fewest casualties among their own number possible.

	If, instead, the Empire were to plan to [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift\|dig a tunnel]] and steal the water from the Skourans, then taking the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer ~~might~~ be the best idea. Granting them intimate access to a citadel or fortification would be risky if the Empire then stole a precious resource from their nation. It is not clear how they would react in those circumstances.		If, instead, the Empire were to plan to [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift\|dig a tunnel]] and steal the water from the Skourans, then taking the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer would not be the best idea. Granting them intimate access to a citadel or fortification would be risky if the Empire then stole a precious resource from their nation. It is not clear how they would react in those circumstances.

	{{SOP\|by=Skywise Gralka, Imperial Orc Assembly\|statement=Light in the darkness. Urizen it is with Pride that the Imperial Orcs invite your people into Mareave in order to allow them chance to discover histories lost to them. There is worth in this act and our people know more than any a loss of history and what that means. Shine bright Urizen. Be witness to your ancestors worth in our lands - we invite you with all our virtue.\|vote=54-0\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}		{{SOP\|by=Skywise Gralka, Imperial Orc Assembly\|statement=Light in the darkness. Urizen it is with Pride that the Imperial Orcs invite your people into Mareave in order to allow them chance to discover histories lost to them. There is worth in this act and our people know more than any a loss of history and what that means. Shine bright Urizen. Be witness to your ancestors worth in our lands - we invite you with all our virtue.\|vote=54-0\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}

Noserenda: /* Visiting the Brine Turtles */

2025-04-22T17:05:43Z

Visiting the Brine Turtles

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:05, 22 April 2025
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	The leader of the Brine Turtles in this area is an orc most people call "the Hook", a sailor actually named ''Opaugh''. He plies his trade, fishing with nets from ''Storm Runner'', the largest fishing boat in Fioroult. Ostensibly he is nothing more than a sailor and fisherman but every time people rush to report on the actions of the Illarawm, it is the Hook they ultimately run to. There is a council of elders that runs the town, stocked with merchants, shaman, sailors and the like. The Hook isn't on the council... because he doesn't need to be. The council reports to him, not the other way round, and it is him they take their orders from.		The leader of the Brine Turtles in this area is an orc most people call "the Hook", a sailor actually named ''Opaugh''. He plies his trade, fishing with nets from ''Storm Runner'', the largest fishing boat in Fioroult. Ostensibly he is nothing more than a sailor and fisherman but every time people rush to report on the actions of the Illarawm, it is the Hook they ultimately run to. There is a council of elders that runs the town, stocked with merchants, shaman, sailors and the like. The Hook isn't on the council... because he doesn't need to be. The council reports to him, not the other way round, and it is him they take their orders from.
	{{WingedMessenger\|address=A [[Call Winged Messenger\|winged messenger]] sent to ''Opaugh, The Hook, Fioroult Dockside, Fleisardh, Mareave'' will reach the powerful and influential orc.}}		{{WingedMessenger\|address=A [[Call Winged Messenger\|winged messenger]] sent to ''Opaugh, The Hook, Fioroult Dockside, Fleisardh, Mareave'' will reach the powerful and influential orc.}}
	If the Empire want to try and open diplomatic channels then he is the person they must write to. The Illarawm have spoken with ''Opaugh'' and say he is a [[Proud]], intelligent orc who knows little of life outside the Turtles and the currents of the Bay, but he understands his people and he leads them because they trust him. Bonesung Reller advises that any approach be respectful but firm; the Turtles respect strength and authority. But it must be realistic - appeals to join the Empire or convince his warriors to put down their weapons or switch sides will fall on deaf ears and look absurd. The Empire's decision to ban the trade in turtles has opened a window in part because the gesture is small but limited. More of that kind of thing is needed to build trust, they say. They have let Opaugh know that someone from the Empire ''may'' send a winged messenger to him.		If the Empire want to try and open diplomatic channels then he is the person they must write to. The Illarawm have spoken with ''Opaugh'' and say he is a [[Pride\|Proud]], intelligent orc who knows little of life outside the Turtles and the currents of the Bay, but he understands his people and he leads them because they trust him. Bonesung Reller advises that any approach be respectful but firm; the Turtles respect strength and authority. But it must be realistic - appeals to join the Empire or convince his warriors to put down their weapons or switch sides will fall on deaf ears and look absurd. The Empire's decision to ban the trade in turtles has opened a window in part because the gesture is small but limited. More of that kind of thing is needed to build trust, they say. They have let Opaugh know that someone from the Empire ''may'' send a winged messenger to him.

	Bonesung Reller finishes with these final words of advice to his fellow orcs at [[Anvil]]. ''"The longer the journey, the shorter your steps must be."''		Bonesung Reller finishes with these final words of advice to his fellow orcs at [[Anvil]]. ''"The longer the journey, the shorter your steps must be."''

Noserenda at 17:03, 22 April 2025

2025-04-22T17:03:26Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:03, 22 April 2025
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	* '''The civil service believe the benefits of this grand lodge are a unique combination of the qualities of Mareave and the goals of the Golden Pyramid, but other orders could achieve results that were similarly impressive'''		* '''The civil service believe the benefits of this grand lodge are a unique combination of the qualities of Mareave and the goals of the Golden Pyramid, but other orders could achieve results that were similarly impressive'''
	<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Chalice.jpg\|align=right\|width=200}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Chalice.jpg\|align=right\|width=200}}</div>
	The Golden Pyramid are not the first Conclave order to put forward plans for grand lodge, but this new plan is far and away the most ambitious proposal. By building something much bigger than originally envisaged, something that can house many more members of the order, the Golden Pyramid have imagined something vastly more significant than originally conceived. Members of other orders are discussing the proposal and watching with interest. ~~Skeptics~~ believe the Imperial Orcs and the Golden Pyramid will never manage to scrape the wains together for it, but if this great work is commissioned and built it will certainly provoke a great deal of interest (and jealousy!) from other orders.		The Golden Pyramid are not the first Conclave order to put forward plans for grand lodge, but this new plan is far and away the most ambitious proposal. By building something much bigger than originally envisaged, something that can house many more members of the order, the Golden Pyramid have imagined something vastly more significant than originally conceived. Members of other orders are discussing the proposal and watching with interest. Sceptics believe the Imperial Orcs and the Golden Pyramid will never manage to scrape the wains together for it, but if this great work is commissioned and built it will certainly provoke a great deal of interest (and jealousy!) from other orders.

	The [[Silver Chalice]] were the first order to imagine creating a grand lodge, but they have temporarily withdrawn [[Parched_earth#Grand_Lodge\|their own plans]] while they contemplate the implications of this proposal ('''OOC Note:''' it is not currently possible for any order other than the Golden Pyramid to build a grand lodge). If it looks like this may go ahead in some form, if this grand lodge is commissioned, then the Silver Chalice will produce updated plans for something on a similar scale.		The [[Silver Chalice]] were the first order to imagine creating a grand lodge, but they have temporarily withdrawn [[Parched_earth#Grand_Lodge\|their own plans]] while they contemplate the implications of this proposal ('''OOC Note:''' it is not currently possible for any order other than the Golden Pyramid to build a grand lodge). If it looks like this may go ahead in some form, if this grand lodge is commissioned, then the Silver Chalice will produce updated plans for something on a similar scale.
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	It's difficult to be sure whether they simply ''believe'' help is coming, or whether they ''know'' help is coming. They have definitely had assurances from representatives of the Salt Lords that they will send their armies to liberate the Brine Turtles, and soon, but with no clear definition of what "soon" means. Obviously the Turtles wouldn't tell the Empire of the Grendel plans if they knew them, but Reller is a skilled mystagogue with an almost magical capacity for empathy and personal understanding and believes they do ''not'' know what the Salt Lords are actually planning. They cannot be sure, but the Turtles appear nervous, not the kind of nervous energy you might exhibit when preparing for a battle you did not know the outcome but the kind of worry that eats at people who don't know what is happening, coupled with the fear that they may have been forgotten or abandoned.		It's difficult to be sure whether they simply ''believe'' help is coming, or whether they ''know'' help is coming. They have definitely had assurances from representatives of the Salt Lords that they will send their armies to liberate the Brine Turtles, and soon, but with no clear definition of what "soon" means. Obviously the Turtles wouldn't tell the Empire of the Grendel plans if they knew them, but Reller is a skilled mystagogue with an almost magical capacity for empathy and personal understanding and believes they do ''not'' know what the Salt Lords are actually planning. They cannot be sure, but the Turtles appear nervous, not the kind of nervous energy you might exhibit when preparing for a battle you did not know the outcome but the kind of worry that eats at people who don't know what is happening, coupled with the fear that they may have been forgotten or abandoned.

	The Illarawm believe the Brine Turtles are lost; a frightened lamb that has been separated from their family, their most earnest desire to be ~~rejoined~~ with the flock. The shepherd is nowhere to be seen so the lamb eyes the wolves nervously, hoping against hope that hungry jaws will not close about its throat. The Empire could do nothing here they judge, and nothing will come of it. The lamb will remain lost and scared, tail tucked firmly between its legs in the hope that the flock can find it before the wolves do.		The Illarawm believe the Brine Turtles are lost; a frightened lamb that has been separated from their family, their most earnest desire to be re-joined with the flock. The shepherd is nowhere to be seen so the lamb eyes the wolves nervously, hoping against hope that hungry jaws will not close about its throat. The Empire could do nothing here they judge, and nothing will come of it. The lamb will remain lost and scared, tail tucked firmly between its legs in the hope that the flock can find it before the wolves do.

	It is a boon that the Illarawm appear peaceful in dress and demeanour, and the mystagogue and their allies appear deeply unthreatening. That allows them to move cautiously about the Brine Turtle town of Fioroult. They are even able to use some of the rings they carry to buy essential supplies from the orcs. With Beoraidh adopting Imperial currency, it seems that some of the Brine Turtles have discovered a use for the coins and are willing to trade food and clean water (something carefully rationed in Fioroult even with the presence of the freshwater lake) with the group.		It is a boon that the Illarawm appear peaceful in dress and demeanour, and the mystagogue and their allies appear deeply unthreatening. That allows them to move cautiously about the Brine Turtle town of Fioroult. They are even able to use some of the rings they carry to buy essential supplies from the orcs. With Beoraidh adopting Imperial currency, it seems that some of the Brine Turtles have discovered a use for the coins and are willing to trade food and clean water (something carefully rationed in Fioroult even with the presence of the freshwater lake) with the group.

Noserenda: /* Mercenaries of Skoura */

2025-04-22T16:59:44Z

Mercenaries of Skoura

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:59, 22 April 2025
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	Any single citadel or fortification in Mareave could take the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer during the initial planning. It would need to be when the motion was raised (or as part of the announcement) and would increase the strength of the citadel by one thousand once completed. The terms offered by the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall are quite reasonable - ten thrones a season - it is clear that they are not expecting employment elsewhere, but they are unlikely to offer this deal for very long.		Any single citadel or fortification in Mareave could take the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer during the initial planning. It would need to be when the motion was raised (or as part of the announcement) and would increase the strength of the citadel by one thousand once completed. The terms offered by the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall are quite reasonable - ten thrones a season - it is clear that they are not expecting employment elsewhere, but they are unlikely to offer this deal for very long.

	If the Empire plans to make a deal with the Skourans for access to their [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Fair_Trade\|water]] then hiring the garrison could bring even closer ties with the eastern nation. The Skourans are masters of siegecraft, both the building of deepholds and (as seen in various encounters between Imperial and ~~SKouran~~ mercenaries on foreign battlefields), the breaking of walls. Stories of their pragmatic, single-minded focus on ensuring the death of those who would take their land are spoken of in the most casual way, alongside their careful approach to achieving victory with the fewest casualties among their own number possible.		If the Empire plans to make a deal with the Skourans for access to their [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Fair_Trade\|water]] then hiring the garrison could bring even closer ties with the eastern nation. The Skourans are masters of siegecraft, both the building of deepholds and (as seen in various encounters between Imperial and Skouran mercenaries on foreign battlefields), the breaking of walls. Stories of their pragmatic, single-minded focus on ensuring the death of those who would take their land are spoken of in the most casual way, alongside their careful approach to achieving victory with the fewest casualties among their own number possible.

	If, instead, the Empire were to plan to [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift\|dig a tunnel]] and steal the water from the Skourans, then taking the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer might be the best idea. Granting them intimate access to a citadel or fortification would be risky if the Empire then stole a precious resource from their nation. It is not clear how they would react in those circumstances.		If, instead, the Empire were to plan to [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift\|dig a tunnel]] and steal the water from the Skourans, then taking the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer might be the best idea. Granting them intimate access to a citadel or fortification would be risky if the Empire then stole a precious resource from their nation. It is not clear how they would react in those circumstances.

Hailmur: /* The Illarawm and the Turtles */

2025-04-22T15:55:11Z

The Illarawm and the Turtles

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:55, 22 April 2025
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	Eilian suggested that the Imperial Senate could [[Here_to_stay#Turtles_all_the_Way_Down\|make it illegal to hunt or harm turtles]] in the Bay of Catazar. At the same time, the Imperial Orc Assembly requested that the Illarawm visit Fioroult, in [[Mareave#Fleisardh\|Fleisardh]], to begin to pave the way for negotiations with the sept to Brine Turtles to begin. Their efforts have borne fruit, and this summit possibly presents the best chance for discussion to begin with the orcs of the Broken Shore.		Eilian suggested that the Imperial Senate could [[Here_to_stay#Turtles_all_the_Way_Down\|make it illegal to hunt or harm turtles]] in the Bay of Catazar. At the same time, the Imperial Orc Assembly requested that the Illarawm visit Fioroult, in [[Mareave#Fleisardh\|Fleisardh]], to begin to pave the way for negotiations with the sept to Brine Turtles to begin. Their efforts have borne fruit, and this summit possibly presents the best chance for discussion to begin with the orcs of the Broken Shore.

	<div style="float: right; max-width: ~~200px~~; margin-left: 10px;"><quote by="Proposed: Mareave, Seconded: Reikos">Motion to make it illegal to hunt or harm turtles in the Bay of Catazar.</quote></div>		<div style="float: right; max-width: 300px; margin-left: 10px;"><quote by="Proposed: Mareave, Seconded: Reikos">Motion to make it illegal to hunt or harm turtles in the Bay of Catazar.</quote></div>

	The [[Senate motion]] passed, providing an effective measure of protection for the turtles at least from Imperial hands. With some trepidation, Bonesung Reller returns to Brine Turtle lands, this time with a small delegation of Illarawm, including mystics, demagogues, a historian, a trader and rather unusually an Illarawm [[thief-taker]] called ''Hask'' who tags along in the hope that he might be able to build bridges with a group of Brine Turtles called the ''alleywalkers''.		The [[Senate motion]] passed, providing an effective measure of protection for the turtles at least from Imperial hands. With some trepidation, Bonesung Reller returns to Brine Turtle lands, this time with a small delegation of Illarawm, including mystics, demagogues, a historian, a trader and rather unusually an Illarawm [[thief-taker]] called ''Hask'' who tags along in the hope that he might be able to build bridges with a group of Brine Turtles called the ''alleywalkers''.
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	Diplomacy is hard, but the Illarawm are persistent. Their ancestor was the first orc to cross back over the Howling Abyss, they are the sept that builds bridges, a little hostility and icy glares are not enough to dissuade them. Working with painstaking care, they move back and forth across Fioroult, talking with one Brine Turtle after another, listening to what is not said, looking for the things that are hidden in plain sight. They notice who looks at who and how. They observe who leaves the room when they enter and who returns. They pay heed to the silent looks and the unspoken gestures and observe what words and actions cause the Turtle's ancestors to reach out to them.		Diplomacy is hard, but the Illarawm are persistent. Their ancestor was the first orc to cross back over the Howling Abyss, they are the sept that builds bridges, a little hostility and icy glares are not enough to dissuade them. Working with painstaking care, they move back and forth across Fioroult, talking with one Brine Turtle after another, listening to what is not said, looking for the things that are hidden in plain sight. They notice who looks at who and how. They observe who leaves the room when they enter and who returns. They pay heed to the silent looks and the unspoken gestures and observe what words and actions cause the Turtle's ancestors to reach out to them.

	It is difficult work, but the Illarawm are good at this. Even so, they are not ascending a mountainside, they are climbing a cliff face. The Turtles remain guarded and wary, frightened and hostile, no matter how deferential and beaten they choose to act. The Illarawm believe their ancestors are urging them to caution and patience, and believe that the only reason that the Turtles engage with them at all is because their ancestors are telling them to learn what they can about the Illarawm and the Imperial Orcs in the hope that it might be useful. Given the mission '''Skywise ~~Gralka~~''' has set them, the irony of that is not lost on them.		It is difficult work, but the Illarawm are good at this. Even so, they are not ascending a mountainside, they are climbing a cliff face. The Turtles remain guarded and wary, frightened and hostile, no matter how deferential and beaten they choose to act. The Illarawm believe their ancestors are urging them to caution and patience, and believe that the only reason that the Turtles engage with them at all is because their ancestors are telling them to learn what they can about the Illarawm and the Imperial Orcs in the hope that it might be useful. Given the mission '''Skywise Tulva''' has set them, the irony of that is not lost on them.

	By the time the Winter Solstice is approaching, the Illarawm have achieved everything that might be possible here. They have mapped out the currents of Fioroult's people, studying the way the waters flow, how the eddies form, how the currents pull the Turtles down to the sea. They know who hears the ancestors strongly and who is dear to their words. They believe they know who listens, and most importantly of all they have found out who speaks, despite the best efforts of the cautious Turtles.		By the time the Winter Solstice is approaching, the Illarawm have achieved everything that might be possible here. They have mapped out the currents of Fioroult's people, studying the way the waters flow, how the eddies form, how the currents pull the Turtles down to the sea. They know who hears the ancestors strongly and who is dear to their words. They believe they know who listens, and most importantly of all they have found out who speaks, despite the best efforts of the cautious Turtles.

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:41, 22 April 2025
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	This idea would incorporate the ideas for the [[Here_to_stay#Hollow_Prestige\|Clisearn Grand Market]], so it would ''not'' be possible to build this and the market, but it would provide the same intangible benefit that the market offered. It would demonstrate the strength of Imperial commitment to the region but also help the Clisearn families see the benefits of working with the Empire rather than opposing them. They would not automatically become friends to the Empire, but their own self interest would see them cease their [[Region_qualities#Uncooperative\|open opposition]]. It cannot be denied that having a powerful Conclave Order establish their base of power in Clisearn appeals to the families here; it would certainly boost their own prestige.		This idea would incorporate the ideas for the [[Here_to_stay#Hollow_Prestige\|Clisearn Grand Market]], so it would ''not'' be possible to build this and the market, but it would provide the same intangible benefit that the market offered. It would demonstrate the strength of Imperial commitment to the region but also help the Clisearn families see the benefits of working with the Empire rather than opposing them. They would not automatically become friends to the Empire, but their own self interest would see them cease their [[Region_qualities#Uncooperative\|open opposition]]. It cannot be denied that having a powerful Conclave Order establish their base of power in Clisearn appeals to the families here; it would certainly boost their own prestige.

	Of course such a massive operation would be expensive, but there is one way the order might be able to reduce the costs. By working closely with the Imperial Orcs, and tailoring their proposals to ensure that they were also of benefit to their hosts, the Golden Pyramid could take advantage of the [[The_Ambition_of_Thrace#Building_a_Nation_(Skarsind)\|inspiration of Thrace]], reducing basic labour costs to zero and requiring only 36 crowns to pay for the additional costs for work in Mareave caused by its [[Region_qualities#Under-developed\|poor connections to the rest of the Empire]]. Perhaps the order and the nation might even be able to fund the commission together, sharing the financial and political costs to get it arranged.		Of course such a massive operation would be expensive, but there is one way the order might be able to reduce the costs. By working closely with the Imperial Orcs, and tailoring their proposals to ensure that they were also of benefit to their hosts, the Golden Pyramid could take advantage of the [[The_Ambition_of_Thrace#Building_a_Nation_(Skarsind)\|inspiration of Thrace]], reducing basic labour costs to zero and requiring only 60 crowns to pay for the additional costs for work in Mareave caused by its [[Region_qualities#Under-developed\|poor connections to the rest of the Empire]]. Perhaps the order and the nation might even be able to fund the commission together, sharing the financial and political costs to get it arranged.

	Working with the Imperial Orcs would benefit them as well. The boost in production of local [[mine\|mines]], [[business\|businesses]], and [[mana site\|mana sites]] would cause ''Delving Market'', the local site for exchange in metals and orders to rapidly grow to accommodate all the new trade. The commission could include instructions to the civil service to arrange to appoint an Imperial Orc position to oversee the market. The ''Bonesetter of the Delving Market'' would be responsible for the market, as well as supporting the miners throughout Mareave. In return, they would receive a small income in fees and dues; of ten crowns each season, which they choose to spend purchasing ingots if they wished.		Working with the Imperial Orcs would benefit them as well. The boost in production of local [[mine\|mines]], [[business\|businesses]], and [[mana site\|mana sites]] would cause ''Delving Market'', the local site for exchange in metals and orders to rapidly grow to accommodate all the new trade. The commission could include instructions to the civil service to arrange to appoint an Imperial Orc position to oversee the market. The ''Bonesetter of the Delving Market'' would be responsible for the market, as well as supporting the miners throughout Mareave. In return, they would receive a small income in fees and dues; of ten crowns each season, which they choose to spend purchasing ingots if they wished.

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:02, 22 April 2025
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	If the Empire plans to make a deal with the Skourans for access to their [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Fair_Trade\|water]] then hiring the garrison could bring even closer ties with the eastern nation. The Skourans are masters of siegecraft, both the building of deepholds and (as seen in various encounters between Imperial and Skouran mercenaries on foreign battlefields), the breaking of walls. Stories of their pragmatic, single-minded focus on ensuring the death of those who would take their land are spoken of in the most casual way, alongside their careful approach to achieving victory with the fewest casualties among their own number possible.		If the Empire plans to make a deal with the Skourans for access to their [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Fair_Trade\|water]] then hiring the garrison could bring even closer ties with the eastern nation. The Skourans are masters of siegecraft, both the building of deepholds and (as seen in various encounters between Imperial and Skouran mercenaries on foreign battlefields), the breaking of walls. Stories of their pragmatic, single-minded focus on ensuring the death of those who would take their land are spoken of in the most casual way, alongside their careful approach to achieving victory with the fewest casualties among their own number possible.

	If, instead, the Empire were to plan to [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift\|dig a tunnel]] and steal the water from the Skourans, then taking the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer ~~might~~ be the best idea. Granting them intimate access to a citadel or fortification would be risky if the Empire then stole a precious resource from their nation. It is not clear how they would react in those circumstances.		If, instead, the Empire were to plan to [[Million_miles_of_water#A_Long_Drift\|dig a tunnel]] and steal the water from the Skourans, then taking the Twelfth Mercenaries of Jadefall up on their offer would not be the best idea. Granting them intimate access to a citadel or fortification would be risky if the Empire then stole a precious resource from their nation. It is not clear how they would react in those circumstances.

	{{SOP\|by=Skywise Gralka, Imperial Orc Assembly\|statement=Light in the darkness. Urizen it is with Pride that the Imperial Orcs invite your people into Mareave in order to allow them chance to discover histories lost to them. There is worth in this act and our people know more than any a loss of history and what that means. Shine bright Urizen. Be witness to your ancestors worth in our lands - we invite you with all our virtue.\|vote=54-0\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}		{{SOP\|by=Skywise Gralka, Imperial Orc Assembly\|statement=Light in the darkness. Urizen it is with Pride that the Imperial Orcs invite your people into Mareave in order to allow them chance to discover histories lost to them. There is worth in this act and our people know more than any a loss of history and what that means. Shine bright Urizen. Be witness to your ancestors worth in our lands - we invite you with all our virtue.\|vote=54-0\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}