Terunael in Axos - Revision history

Twiggy at 15:31, 19 March 2026

2026-03-19T15:31:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:31, 19 March 2026
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	It is... even now, actually inside Visokuma – inside the Cavan vallorn – it is hard to put the place into words. It is warm, and it is wet – a little like Therunin in high summer but more so. It rains – a lot. The plants are exotic, unfamiliar, brightly coloured flowers are everywhere but here and there, like a discordant note in a song, something known, familiar, unexpected – a beggarwood tree, perhaps, or a stand of mangrove trees that would not be out of place in the Tarn valley.		It is... even now, actually inside Visokuma – inside the Cavan vallorn – it is hard to put the place into words. It is warm, and it is wet – a little like Therunin in high summer but more so. It rains – a lot. The plants are exotic, unfamiliar, brightly coloured flowers are everywhere but here and there, like a discordant note in a song, something known, familiar, unexpected – a beggarwood tree, perhaps, or a stand of mangrove trees that would not be out of place in the Tarn valley.

	There is a lot of water here, but we encountered no rivers – only pools and lakes, and the streams that run between them. There are insects – the forest teems with them – some familiar many much less so. I have seen thumb sized-hornets and vicious wasp-like terrors the size of dogs in the same hour. Shiny black beetles with spiked shells as large around as dinner plates, and swarms of pale white ants as long as my little finger that preyed on them. One of the guides – a woman who had visited the forest on no less than three previous occasions – put her hand down on a wet log to steady herself and was bitten by... something.. the scuttled quickly away. Within ten minutes she was dead, her flesh sloughing from her bones like boiled meat. Within a handful of minutes she began to stir – but we all know what had to be done. Our Axou companions – those familiar with the vallorn at least – took steps. They did so with heavy hearts – those who fall to the vallorn do not return to the citadels, and rest beneath the ground there. They do not become honoured ancestors, they are not awoken to speak with their descendants. I understand a little more of why the Axou fear the vallorn, and ignore it as much as they can.		There is a lot of water here, but we encountered no rivers – only pools and lakes, and the streams that run between them. There are insects – the forest teems with them – some familiar many much less so. I have seen thumb sized-hornets and vicious wasp-like terrors the size of dogs in the same hour. Shiny black beetles with spiked shells as large around as dinner plates, and swarms of pale white ants as long as my little finger that preyed on them. One of the guides – a woman who had visited the forest on no less than three previous occasions – put her hand down on a wet log to steady herself and was bitten by... something... the scuttled quickly away. Within ten minutes she was dead, her flesh sloughing from her bones like boiled meat. Within a handful of minutes she began to stir – but we all know what had to be done. Our Axou companions – those familiar with the vallorn at least – took steps. They did so with heavy hearts – those who fall to the vallorn do not return to the citadels, and rest beneath the ground there. They do not become honoured ancestors, they are not awoken to speak with their descendants. I understand a little more of why the Axou fear the vallorn, and ignore it as much as they can.

	The insects are not the only threat here. There is a species of pitcher plant here that grows to great size, and possesses a long fibrous tendril with which it scoops birds and large insects out of the air. The long tendril is whip fast, and the end is covered in a sticky, paralysing sap. On the second day out, I strayed too near one. The last thing I remember was a noise like a thunder clap, and then the ground rose to meet me and darkness swallowed me. Had I been alone I doubt I would have been alive today, but luckily my companions were able to drag me to safety. I doubt the thing could have actually pulled me into its sticky pitcher, but the surviving guide spent a night gleefully explaining that the plants repeatedly strike at larger animals – or humans – until they are dead then wait for the flesh to begin to rot before slicing strips of decaying meat off with their tendril and dropping them into their insides. He claimed the things can move, pulling themselves along slowly through the forest, so that one can never be sure quite where they will be encountered. I think he was joking.		The insects are not the only threat here. There is a species of pitcher plant here that grows to great size, and possesses a long fibrous tendril with which it scoops birds and large insects out of the air. The long tendril is whip fast, and the end is covered in a sticky, paralysing sap. On the second day out, I strayed too near one. The last thing I remember was a noise like a thunder clap, and then the ground rose to meet me and darkness swallowed me. Had I been alone I doubt I would have been alive today, but luckily my companions were able to drag me to safety. I doubt the thing could have actually pulled me into its sticky pitcher, but the surviving guide spent a night gleefully explaining that the plants repeatedly strike at larger animals – or humans – until they are dead then wait for the flesh to begin to rot before slicing strips of decaying meat off with their tendril and dropping them into their insides. He claimed the things can move, pulling themselves along slowly through the forest, so that one can never be sure quite where they will be encountered. I think he was joking.

Twiggy: /* The Axos and the Vallorn */

2026-02-18T18:57:24Z

The Axos and the Vallorn

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:57, 18 February 2026
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	After discussion with Istacia, I also spent some time speaking to Ilarch Maxatios. He had little interest in the history of Visokuma, but a great deal of interest in the vallorn. To him, and to the Grand Ilarch of Kantor, it represents a lost opportunity. The taint of the vallorn keeps them out of the woodlands, but they represent a vast source of untapped wealth. Not only are there potentially great reserves of ambergelt, dragonbone, and beggar's lye in Visokuma but there is apparently a great forest of weirwood trees.		After discussion with Istacia, I also spent some time speaking to Ilarch Maxatios. He had little interest in the history of Visokuma, but a great deal of interest in the vallorn. To him, and to the Grand Ilarch of Kantor, it represents a lost opportunity. The taint of the vallorn keeps them out of the woodlands, but they represent a vast source of untapped wealth. Not only are there potentially great reserves of ambergelt, dragonbone, and beggar's lye in Visokuma but there is apparently a great forest of weirwood trees.

	We know from the liberation of Miaren and Therunin that the vallorn does not taint ~~Weirwood~~ trees. The great forest spoken of a thousand years ago, that Istacia says brought the Terunael here in the first place, almost certainly still exists – but choked by the miasma and crowded with husks and abominable spawn.		We know from the liberation of Miaren and Therunin that the vallorn does not taint weirwood trees. The great forest spoken of a thousand years ago, that Istacia says brought the Terunael here in the first place, almost certainly still exists – but choked by the miasma and crowded with husks and abominable spawn.

	There have been attempts to destroy the vallorn in the past, of course, but they have been fruitless. The Axou quickly discovered what the Navarr already know – that even fire will not permanently harm a vallorn infestation. That while the spawn may be slain, they are numberless and any that are not killed dead quickly recover and return more savage than ever. That the air itself brings death and makes fighting in an infested area next to impossible. Unlike the Navarr, the Axou had no great vow to drive them. In the end, said Maxatios, the Nikitis Axou simply gave up trying to find a solution to the vallorn, and turned their efforts to keeping it contained.		There have been attempts to destroy the vallorn in the past, of course, but they have been fruitless. The Axou quickly discovered what the Navarr already know – that even fire will not permanently harm a vallorn infestation. That while the spawn may be slain, they are numberless and any that are not killed dead quickly recover and return more savage than ever. That the air itself brings death and makes fighting in an infested area next to impossible. Unlike the Navarr, the Axou had no great vow to drive them. In the end, said Maxatios, the Nikitis Axou simply gave up trying to find a solution to the vallorn, and turned their efforts to keeping it contained.

Twiggy: /* Of Cavan and its fall */

2026-02-11T05:01:02Z

Of Cavan and its fall

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:01, 11 February 2026
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	For a century and a half, the Terunael built Cavan amid the great weirwood forests at the heart of Axos. The Axou paid tribute to the Terunael, but they also learned from them how to build their citadels even larger. The three aqueducts of Kantor, said Istacia, were originally based on a design the Terunael used to bring water to Cavan, and with innovations such as these the Axou were able to grow their citadels to a size many had never dreamed of.		For a century and a half, the Terunael built Cavan amid the great weirwood forests at the heart of Axos. The Axou paid tribute to the Terunael, but they also learned from them how to build their citadels even larger. The three aqueducts of Kantor, said Istacia, were originally based on a design the Terunael used to bring water to Cavan, and with innovations such as these the Axou were able to grow their citadels to a size many had never dreamed of.

	In the end, though, things began to go awry. The orcs of [[The Semmerlak#The Mallum\|the Mallum]] attacked the roads that connected Béantal Dol and Tharunind to Cavan. They pressed south into Kabanja, threatening Kaban, Solokha, and Ipotavo. The Axou called to the Terunael of Cavan to aid them, in accord with their treaties, but the inhabitants of the city refused. The treaties were cast aside. The Grand Ilarchs of Issyk, ~~Malykop~~, and Kantor came to the aid of their fellows and a terrible war raged. The orcs were held but it was only a matter of time before they ruined the three western citadels.		In the end, though, things began to go awry. The orcs of [[The Semmerlak#The Mallum\|the Mallum]] attacked the roads that connected Béantal Dol and Tharunind to Cavan. They pressed south into Kabanja, threatening Kaban, Solokha, and Ipotavo. The Axou called to the Terunael of Cavan to aid them, in accord with their treaties, but the inhabitants of the city refused. The treaties were cast aside. The Grand Ilarchs of Issyk, Maykop, and Kantor came to the aid of their fellows and a terrible war raged. The orcs were held but it was only a matter of time before they ruined the three western citadels.

	Some Terunael warriors disobeyed their leaders, however, and came to the aid of the Axou. They helped to keep the orcs at bay. They earned the respect of the people of the citadels. This served them in good stead when the catastrophe occurred.		Some Terunael warriors disobeyed their leaders, however, and came to the aid of the Axou. They helped to keep the orcs at bay. They earned the respect of the people of the citadels. This served them in good stead when the catastrophe occurred.

Twiggy at 16:59, 5 August 2025

2025-08-05T16:59:41Z

Twiggy at 15:54, 18 July 2025

2025-07-18T15:54:28Z

Twiggy at 21:30, 15 July 2025

2025-07-15T21:30:03Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:30, 15 July 2025
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	In the end, we were forced to turn back long before we reached the heart of the forest or the ruins of Cavan. In honesty, it is hardly surprising. Competent as the guides and Agema were, the Axou are no Navarr. There are no steadings here, and no safe places to camp. We quickly decided not to press our luck.		In the end, we were forced to turn back long before we reached the heart of the forest or the ruins of Cavan. In honesty, it is hardly surprising. Competent as the guides and Agema were, the Axou are no Navarr. There are no steadings here, and no safe places to camp. We quickly decided not to press our luck.

	There was a ruin, however, that the guides said was not too far from the edge of the forest. It took us two days to reach it, and it was in all honesty a little disappointing. I would say that it had once been a watchtower – probably intended by the Terunael to keep an eye on the Axou of Thronaskoni. It was undeniably Terunael in origin, overgrown with the green kudzu of the vallorn's embrace. There was also a moss-covered stone with an inscription and the remains of a spiralling design. Time had ~~worm~~ most of it away, but I could make out the odd letter here and there.		There was a ruin, however, that the guides said was not too far from the edge of the forest. It took us two days to reach it, and it was in all honesty a little disappointing. I would say that it had once been a watchtower – probably intended by the Terunael to keep an eye on the Axou of Thronaskoni. It was undeniably Terunael in origin, overgrown with the green kudzu of the vallorn's embrace. There was also a moss-covered stone with an inscription and the remains of a spiralling design. Time had worn most of it away, but I could make out the odd letter here and there.

	It was a mournful place, one that settled into my spirit and filled me with sorrow. A symbol of the tragedy of Terunael. Of all that has been lost, and that we will never recover. We will never know who built this tower, or what the inscription on this stone was, or what became of the final guardians of this place. Did they die fighting to protect their fleeing neighbours from the vallorn, unaware that they were saving them from one dark fate only to condemn them to another at the hands of the Axou? Or did they flee before the green tide, and die on Kantoran spears?		It was a mournful place, one that settled into my spirit and filled me with sorrow. A symbol of the tragedy of Terunael. Of all that has been lost, and that we will never recover. We will never know who built this tower, or what the inscription on this stone was, or what became of the final guardians of this place. Did they die fighting to protect their fleeing neighbours from the vallorn, unaware that they were saving them from one dark fate only to condemn them to another at the hands of the Axou? Or did they flee before the green tide, and die on Kantoran spears?

Twiggy at 21:09, 12 July 2025

2025-07-12T21:09:38Z

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	With that in mind, and with our funds low, we hired a single ox wagon. Istacia sent her own grand-niece Ekimunna to accompany us and serve as a guide. A pleasant conversationalist, Ekimunna had little of her great-aunt's scholarship. She was a freelance scout, who accompanied expeditions such as ours on a regular basis, and possessed an encyclopaedic knowledge of the lands through which we would pass.		With that in mind, and with our funds low, we hired a single ox wagon. Istacia sent her own grand-niece Ekimunna to accompany us and serve as a guide. A pleasant conversationalist, Ekimunna had little of her great-aunt's scholarship. She was a freelance scout, who accompanied expeditions such as ours on a regular basis, and possessed an encyclopaedic knowledge of the lands through which we would pass.

	We gave Issyk a wide berth while keeping to the roads. This proved to be more difficult than we might have imagined. Axos does not have very many roads in truth and they tend to serve solely to connect the citadels to each other. We travelled for three weeks along winding tracks connecting sprawling farms, far from urban civilisation. It put me in mind from time to time of traveling the trods, but without the great energy and vitality that comes from their magic. Sometimes days would pass without us seeing another ~~traveler~~ – most pilgrims are traveling between the citadels, or toward the citadels, not moving between them.		We gave Issyk a wide berth while keeping to the roads. This proved to be more difficult than we might have imagined. Axos does not have very many roads in truth and they tend to serve solely to connect the citadels to each other. We travelled for three weeks along winding tracks connecting sprawling farms, far from urban civilisation. It put me in mind from time to time of traveling the trods, but without the great energy and vitality that comes from their magic. Sometimes days would pass without us seeing another traveller – most pilgrims are traveling between the citadels, or toward the citadels, not moving between them.

	After nearly a month, we reached Ipotavo.		After nearly a month, we reached Ipotavo.

Twiggy at 17:42, 12 July 2025

2025-07-12T17:42:58Z

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	The journey to the ''Towers of Kantor'' was long, and tedious, and uneventful. I spoke with the captain, and with several of her crew, about what waited at our destination. They were happy enough to speak of politics and the doings of the citadels – how the ''Gates of Ipotavo'' had recovered since the [[Druj]] invasion, how there was work underway to rebuild the ''Tunnels of Kaban'' in the west. Of disputes between Ipotavo and the ''Chamber of Issyk'' over their respective attitudes to the Empire – Ipotavo unsurprisingly favours the Empire, while Issyk argues that Axos would be better served to ally with the Grendel. Of the enthusiasm of the Grand Ilarch of Kantor for trade with distant [[Principalities of Jarm\|Jarm]] and wealthy [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]]. Of the fourth citadel, the ''Halls of Maykop'', they spoke little save to say that it was a place of learning and wisdom.		The journey to the ''Towers of Kantor'' was long, and tedious, and uneventful. I spoke with the captain, and with several of her crew, about what waited at our destination. They were happy enough to speak of politics and the doings of the citadels – how the ''Gates of Ipotavo'' had recovered since the [[Druj]] invasion, how there was work underway to rebuild the ''Tunnels of Kaban'' in the west. Of disputes between Ipotavo and the ''Chamber of Issyk'' over their respective attitudes to the Empire – Ipotavo unsurprisingly favours the Empire, while Issyk argues that Axos would be better served to ally with the Grendel. Of the enthusiasm of the Grand Ilarch of Kantor for trade with distant [[Principalities of Jarm\|Jarm]] and wealthy [[Sarcophan Delves\|Sarcophan]]. Of the fourth citadel, the ''Halls of Maykop'', they spoke little save to say that it was a place of learning and wisdom.

	Of the vallorn, and of their ancient history they either could not or would not speak. Confirmation that there is indeed a vallorn in Axos, and a few tantalising comments about the ~~Sorceror~~-Kings who founded the nation and built the citadels. But on the subject of Terunael they were silent. Were there ruins in the heart of the vallorn? I would have to speak to scholars, not sailors.		Of the vallorn, and of their ancient history they either could not or would not speak. Confirmation that there is indeed a vallorn in Axos, and a few tantalising comments about the Sorcerer-Kings who founded the nation and built the citadels. But on the subject of Terunael they were silent. Were there ruins in the heart of the vallorn? I would have to speak to scholars, not sailors.

	===Impressions of Kantor===		===Impressions of Kantor===
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	===Of Cavan and its fall===		===Of Cavan and its fall===
	The Terunael came to Axos last, Istacia said. They were already well established in the bay but they were drawn here by the wealth of Axos. The citadels already stood, and the ~~Sorceror~~-Kings had long since transcended mortality, but the Axou were merely a shadow of their current glory.		The Terunael came to Axos last, Istacia said. They were already well established in the bay but they were drawn here by the wealth of Axos. The citadels already stood, and the Sorcerer-Kings had long since transcended mortality, but the Axou were merely a shadow of their current glory.

	They came by land, she said, from the north-east, down through Kabanja. At first they came as merchants, seeking trade routes for their cities of Béantal Dol and [[Therunin\|Tharunind]]. When they saw the wealth of Axos, however, they coveted it for themselves. The people of Béantal Dol and Tharunind made war on Axou, overwhelming them with magic and steel. In the end they threatened to unleash powers the Axou feared – powers of [[Spring magic\|Spring]] that would devour the bones of the ancestors on which all the citadels were built.		They came by land, she said, from the north-east, down through Kabanja. At first they came as merchants, seeking trade routes for their cities of Béantal Dol and [[Therunin\|Tharunind]]. When they saw the wealth of Axos, however, they coveted it for themselves. The people of Béantal Dol and Tharunind made war on Axou, overwhelming them with magic and steel. In the end they threatened to unleash powers the Axou feared – powers of [[Spring magic\|Spring]] that would devour the bones of the ancestors on which all the citadels were built.

Twiggy: /* The Curse of Solokha */

2025-07-12T10:43:01Z

The Curse of Solokha

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:43, 12 July 2025
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	===The Curse of Solokha===		===The Curse of Solokha===
	With Ekimunna leading the way we travelled into the hills to the west. The further from Kaban we ~~traveled~~, however, the more unsettled our party became. It began simply enough after a week or so of travel. It was noticeable that we began to squabble and grumble more, and outbursts of temper became more common. We snapped at one another. It became clear that we were sleeping poorly – my own dreams were riven as often as not with unsettling dreams of failure and despair that became stronger the further west we travelled. In idle moments, I began to suspect that innocent Ekimunna – our resolute guide – was leading us toward destruction.		With Ekimunna leading the way we travelled into the hills to the west. The further from Kaban we travelled, however, the more unsettled our party became. It began simply enough after a week or so of travel. It was noticeable that we began to squabble and grumble more, and outbursts of temper became more common. We snapped at one another. It became clear that we were sleeping poorly – my own dreams were riven as often as not with unsettling dreams of failure and despair that became stronger the further west we travelled. In idle moments, I began to suspect that innocent Ekimunna – our resolute guide – was leading us toward destruction.

	When finally I challenged her, she was initially surprised and then relieved. She had, she said, forgotten that we were unaware of the dangers of the western hills. Before leaving Maykop, knowing we might end up here, she had sought out a blessing from one of her ancestors, to guard her spirit and keep her true to her course. After some further explanation, we understood her to mean she had received an anointing from a priest.		When finally I challenged her, she was initially surprised and then relieved. She had, she said, forgotten that we were unaware of the dangers of the western hills. Before leaving Maykop, knowing we might end up here, she had sought out a blessing from one of her ancestors, to guard her spirit and keep her true to her course. After some further explanation, we understood her to mean she had received an anointing from a priest.

Twiggy: /* The Halls of Maykop */

2025-07-11T12:08:51Z

The Halls of Maykop

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:08, 11 July 2025
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	As I said, the citadel sprawls where Kantor strives. Few buildings had more than a couple of storeys, but at the heart of the city lies the great palace of learning, the College of Necromantia, from which the citadel's power flows. The greatest magicians in a nation ruled by magic study here, mastering the arts of death alongside more mundane curricula dealing with leadership, history, natural philosophy, and the arts.		As I said, the citadel sprawls where Kantor strives. Few buildings had more than a couple of storeys, but at the heart of the city lies the great palace of learning, the College of Necromantia, from which the citadel's power flows. The greatest magicians in a nation ruled by magic study here, mastering the arts of death alongside more mundane curricula dealing with leadership, history, natural philosophy, and the arts.

	Kantor bustles and surges with life, but ~~Mayop~~ is a stark opposite. Silence is king here, broken only by the occasional tolling of leaden bells. To be in Maykop is to always feel as if you are in a great library, or the most strict of the Highborn [[chapter\|chapterhouses]]. Loud noise and revelry are forbidden by order of the Grand Ilarch – the people here feel most keenly the fall from grace that has overtaken the people of Axos. There are cults among the students, it is said, that worship death itself not as the great leveller, the great weapon of the Creator against humanity, but as the most potent weapon to be wielded to separate the worthy from the unworthy. These cults are hunted wherever they are found, and engage in acts of terror and sabotage against the rulers of Maykop.		Kantor bustles and surges with life, but Maykop is a stark opposite. Silence is king here, broken only by the occasional tolling of leaden bells. To be in Maykop is to always feel as if you are in a great library, or the most strict of the Highborn [[chapter\|chapterhouses]]. Loud noise and revelry are forbidden by order of the Grand Ilarch – the people here feel most keenly the fall from grace that has overtaken the people of Axos. There are cults among the students, it is said, that worship death itself not as the great leveller, the great weapon of the Creator against humanity, but as the most potent weapon to be wielded to separate the worthy from the unworthy. These cults are hunted wherever they are found, and engage in acts of terror and sabotage against the rulers of Maykop.

	We made some enquiries here about the descendants of Terunael, but few here seemed interested in cooperating with us. On the matter of trade, they lent their ears to Ilarch Maxatios. On the matters of scholarship, however, they inclined their heads to none save the masters of their college, and their Grand Ilarch. Only the aid of Istacia, who spoke on our behalf, allowed us to glean what little information we were able to find here.		We made some enquiries here about the descendants of Terunael, but few here seemed interested in cooperating with us. On the matter of trade, they lent their ears to Ilarch Maxatios. On the matters of scholarship, however, they inclined their heads to none save the masters of their college, and their Grand Ilarch. Only the aid of Istacia, who spoke on our behalf, allowed us to glean what little information we were able to find here.

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:59, 5 August 2025
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	After discussion with Istacia, I also spent some time speaking to Ilarch Maxatios. He had little interest in the history of Visokuma, but a great deal of interest in the vallorn. To him, and to the Grand Ilarch of Kantor, it represents a lost opportunity. The taint of the vallorn keeps them out of the woodlands, but they represent a vast source of untapped wealth. Not only are there potentially great reserves of ambergelt, dragonbone, and beggar's lye in Visokuma but there is apparently a great forest of weirwood trees.		After discussion with Istacia, I also spent some time speaking to Ilarch Maxatios. He had little interest in the history of Visokuma, but a great deal of interest in the vallorn. To him, and to the Grand Ilarch of Kantor, it represents a lost opportunity. The taint of the vallorn keeps them out of the woodlands, but they represent a vast source of untapped wealth. Not only are there potentially great reserves of ambergelt, dragonbone, and beggar's lye in Visokuma but there is apparently a great forest of weirwood trees.

	We know from the liberation of Miaren and Therunin that the ~~Vallorn~~ does not taint Weirwood trees. The great forest spoken of a thousand years ago, that Istacia says brought the Terunael here in the first place, almost certainly still exists – but choked by the miasma and crowded with husks and abominable spawn.		We know from the liberation of Miaren and Therunin that the vallorn does not taint Weirwood trees. The great forest spoken of a thousand years ago, that Istacia says brought the Terunael here in the first place, almost certainly still exists – but choked by the miasma and crowded with husks and abominable spawn.

	There have been attempts to destroy the vallorn in the past, of course, but they have been fruitless. The Axou quickly discovered what the Navarr already know – that even fire will not permanently harm a vallorn infestation. That while the spawn may be slain, they are numberless and any that are not killed dead quickly recover and return more savage than ever. That the air itself brings death and makes fighting in an infested area next to impossible. Unlike the Navarr, the Axou had no great vow to drive them. In the end, said Maxatios, the Nikitis Axou simply gave up trying to find a solution to the ~~Vallorn~~, and turned their efforts to keeping it contained.		There have been attempts to destroy the vallorn in the past, of course, but they have been fruitless. The Axou quickly discovered what the Navarr already know – that even fire will not permanently harm a vallorn infestation. That while the spawn may be slain, they are numberless and any that are not killed dead quickly recover and return more savage than ever. That the air itself brings death and makes fighting in an infested area next to impossible. Unlike the Navarr, the Axou had no great vow to drive them. In the end, said Maxatios, the Nikitis Axou simply gave up trying to find a solution to the vallorn, and turned their efforts to keeping it contained.

	Some attempts were made to use magic to destroy the ~~Vallorn~~. They had some luck with a ceremony that the Ilarch vaguely referred to as the “Invocation of the Throne of Maykop” which apparently “weakens” the vallorn when it becomes “too aggressive” but he was loathe to provide any detail. From reading between the lines, it involves a significant force of Axou warriors and magicians escorting necromantia from the Halls of Maykop into the forest itself to a certain location where a powerful Winter ritual is used to make the vallorn quiescent.		Some attempts were made to use magic to destroy the vallorn. They had some luck with a ceremony that the Ilarch vaguely referred to as the “Invocation of the Throne of Maykop” which apparently “weakens” the vallorn when it becomes “too aggressive” but he was loathe to provide any detail. From reading between the lines, it involves a significant force of Axou warriors and magicians escorting necromantia from the Halls of Maykop into the forest itself to a certain location where a powerful Winter ritual is used to make the vallorn quiescent.

	In the end, a series of fortifications were built around the boundaries (in Kabanja and Thronaskoni), and garrisoned by troops charged with destroying any spawn that pressed out of the tangled depths. And then the Axou simply ignored it except on those rare occasions where it tried to expand beyond the borders of Visokuma. There are apparently treaties between all the citadels that if the vallorn becomes aggressive, they will temporarily put aside any ongoing disputes until such time as the threat is ended.		In the end, a series of fortifications were built around the boundaries (in Kabanja and Thronaskoni), and garrisoned by troops charged with destroying any spawn that pressed out of the tangled depths. And then the Axou simply ignored it except on those rare occasions where it tried to expand beyond the borders of Visokuma. There are apparently treaties between all the citadels that if the vallorn becomes aggressive, they will temporarily put aside any ongoing disputes until such time as the threat is ended.

	===Venturing into Visokuma===		===Venturing into Visokuma===
	Entering the ~~Vallorn~~ was no small undertaking. We used our funds carefully but they were barely sufficient to acquire guides, some guards, oxen, and supplies for a month-long trip. In the end Ilarch Maxatios offered some assistance, providing a unit of Agema from his own household, and using his influence to secure us good prices for our provisions. I initially was cautious about his aid but he dismissed my concerns – he said to think of it as an investment. If our expedition convinced the Empire to share its lore of the vallorn with Axos, in the long run it would bring prosperity to the nation – and especially to the Towers of Kantor.		Entering the vallorn was no small undertaking. We used our funds carefully but they were barely sufficient to acquire guides, some guards, oxen, and supplies for a month-long trip. In the end Ilarch Maxatios offered some assistance, providing a unit of Agema from his own household, and using his influence to secure us good prices for our provisions. I initially was cautious about his aid but he dismissed my concerns – he said to think of it as an investment. If our expedition convinced the Empire to share its lore of the vallorn with Axos, in the long run it would bring prosperity to the nation – and especially to the Towers of Kantor.

	It took us the better part of a fortnight to travel the road that winds through the hills and across the plains of Thronaskoni to the fortification built on the edge of the Visokuma forest – on the boundaries of the ~~Vallorn~~ itself. The road mostly exists for transporting supplies and troops to and from the castle, and to service a handful of farms and villages along the route.		It took us the better part of a fortnight to travel the road that winds through the hills and across the plains of Thronaskoni to the fortification built on the edge of the Visokuma forest – on the boundaries of the vallorn itself. The road mostly exists for transporting supplies and troops to and from the castle, and to service a handful of farms and villages along the route.

	Once we were away from the coast, the weather became increasingly warm and uncomfortable, and it rained much of the time. This was typical of the season, our Agema captain informed us, and another reason that posting to the castle on the edge of Visokuma was considered a poor one.		Once we were away from the coast, the weather became increasingly warm and uncomfortable, and it rained much of the time. This was typical of the season, our Agema captain informed us, and another reason that posting to the castle on the edge of Visokuma was considered a poor one.
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	'''For Siân Eternal the Advisor on the Vallorn'''		'''For Siân Eternal the Advisor on the Vallorn'''

	I am a Navarr, so long travel is in my blood. In some ways long and sometimes horrible as the last five months have been, they have been marked also by wonders. The arching Towers of Kantor, the sprawling Halls of Maykop, the vast wall of Ipotavo, even the blasted wasteland of Kaban and the seething madness of the ~~Vallorn~~ of Cavan... some of them have been terrible but I am richer for having experienced them.		I am a Navarr, so long travel is in my blood. In some ways long and sometimes horrible as the last five months have been, they have been marked also by wonders. The arching Towers of Kantor, the sprawling Halls of Maykop, the vast wall of Ipotavo, even the blasted wasteland of Kaban and the seething madness of the vallorn of Cavan... some of them have been terrible but I am richer for having experienced them.

	As I write these words my companions are sleeping, all save Ekimunna our guide from Ipotavo. Tomorrow we will go separate ways – most to return to the Empire, myself and Ekimunna will travel north, over the hills, seeking a pass through the mountains into unknown territory.		As I write these words my companions are sleeping, all save Ekimunna our guide from Ipotavo. Tomorrow we will go separate ways – most to return to the Empire, myself and Ekimunna will travel north, over the hills, seeking a pass through the mountains into unknown territory.
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	She was no expert, but she agreed to talk to me about the lost citadel of the ''Spires of Solokha'' which stood once in the far west of Axos. Axou history teaches that Solokha was destroyed by the Empire in the reign of Emperor Nicovar.		She was no expert, but she agreed to talk to me about the lost citadel of the ''Spires of Solokha'' which stood once in the far west of Axos. Axou history teaches that Solokha was destroyed by the Empire in the reign of Emperor Nicovar.

	The story of the destruction of Solokha was based as much hearsay and hyperbole as it was in fact, and Istacia admitted that to me freely from the start. The citadel had always kept itself somewhat apart from the others – Solokha herself was said to be both the youngest and the most gentle of the six Sorcerer-Kings who founded the great citadel. A true master of the magic of Autumn, Solokha was said to have a transcendent understanding of the ways bonds form between people, and how societies are influenced by the simplest touch. She was said to be wise and even-handed, and served as a moderating influence in the disagreements of her peers. Each Grand Ilarch of Solokha that followed after was built in this mould – an arbiter, a peacekeeper, and a judge. Istacia sadly lamented that with the destruction of Solokha, a balance went out of the politics of Axos. Before, the Grand Ilarchs were more likely to reach an understanding; since the destruction of Solokha, the squabbles and ~~internicine~~ rivalries between the citadels has become more pronounced.		The story of the destruction of Solokha was based as much hearsay and hyperbole as it was in fact, and Istacia admitted that to me freely from the start. The citadel had always kept itself somewhat apart from the others – Solokha herself was said to be both the youngest and the most gentle of the six Sorcerer-Kings who founded the great citadel. A true master of the magic of Autumn, Solokha was said to have a transcendent understanding of the ways bonds form between people, and how societies are influenced by the simplest touch. She was said to be wise and even-handed, and served as a moderating influence in the disagreements of her peers. Each Grand Ilarch of Solokha that followed after was built in this mould – an arbiter, a peacekeeper, and a judge. Istacia sadly lamented that with the destruction of Solokha, a balance went out of the politics of Axos. Before, the Grand Ilarchs were more likely to reach an understanding; since the destruction of Solokha, the squabbles and internecine rivalries between the citadels has become more pronounced.
	The Tunnels of Kaban would never have fallen to the orcs, said Istacia, if Solokha had still stood ~~amoung~~ the circle of the citadels. She would have stood beside Ipotavo, and helped to defend her neighbour citadel. As it was, in the absence of Solokha, it was easy for Issyk, Maykop, and Kantor to look to their own protection, to see the destruction of Kaban as a boon rather than the terrible loss it in truth represented.		The Tunnels of Kaban would never have fallen to the orcs, said Istacia, if Solokha had still stood among the circle of the citadels. She would have stood beside Ipotavo, and helped to defend her neighbour citadel. As it was, in the absence of Solokha, it was easy for Issyk, Maykop, and Kantor to look to their own protection, to see the destruction of Kaban as a boon rather than the terrible loss it in truth represented.

	The fall of Solokha, she said, lay in the very even-handedness that marked its Grand Ilarchs. Alone of the citadels, Solokha sought communion with the Empire – with the people of Urizen in particular – and it was this openness that created an opportunity for Imperial agents to strike against them.		The fall of Solokha, she said, lay in the very even-handedness that marked its Grand Ilarchs. Alone of the citadels, Solokha sought communion with the Empire – with the people of Urizen in particular – and it was this openness that created an opportunity for Imperial agents to strike against them.
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	Unlike the other survivors, the refugees from Cavan were welcomed to Solokha and given leave to stay. Five families in all, so Archimech claimed, formed from the survivors, divided almost along caste-lines; farmers, miners, builders, artisans, and soldiers. The soldiers and the artisans were convinced it would be possible to reclaim Cavan, and absolve themselves of their ancestor's failure. The others – the farmers, miners, and builders – they were less convinced. Over time, so Archimech claimed, they blended their blood with the Axou, and became indistinguishable from their hosts.		Unlike the other survivors, the refugees from Cavan were welcomed to Solokha and given leave to stay. Five families in all, so Archimech claimed, formed from the survivors, divided almost along caste-lines; farmers, miners, builders, artisans, and soldiers. The soldiers and the artisans were convinced it would be possible to reclaim Cavan, and absolve themselves of their ancestor's failure. The others – the farmers, miners, and builders – they were less convinced. Over time, so Archimech claimed, they blended their blood with the Axou, and became indistinguishable from their hosts.

	When Solokha opened its doors to the Empire – to the Urizen – they came east from Mahal. According to Archimech, this is the territory to the west of Axos that once upon a time was home to the introspective Skourans, before the Broken Shore orcs expanded north and drove them from their homes. The descendants of the soldiers and the artisans called themselves the Blood of Cavan, and they made some tentative contact with the Navarr who were themselves the descendants of the Terunael from other fallen cities. Why they did not make closer cause, given both groups were dedicated to the destruction of the ~~Vallorn~~, he could not say.		When Solokha opened its doors to the Empire – to the Urizen – they came east from Mahal. According to Archimech, this is the territory to the west of Axos that once upon a time was home to the introspective Skourans, before the Broken Shore orcs expanded north and drove them from their homes. The descendants of the soldiers and the artisans called themselves the Blood of Cavan, and they made some tentative contact with the Navarr who were themselves the descendants of the Terunael from other fallen cities. Why they did not make closer cause, given both groups were dedicated to the destruction of the vallorn, he could not say.

	Then, of course, the disastrous treachery of the Empire destroyed Solokha.		Then, of course, the disastrous treachery of the Empire destroyed Solokha.
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	The Blood of Cavan had survived, he said, to the point where Solokha fell. They were little more than a society of scholars and historians who felt some connection to the fallen city. Their proud heritage as soldiers, committed to the destruction of the vallorn, had been diluted over time as their blood had become diluted with the blood of Axos. Half of those who attended the meetings and called themselves Blood of Cavan had only the most tenuous connection to their forbears – and they were seen as strange and a little touched in the head by their neighbours.		The Blood of Cavan had survived, he said, to the point where Solokha fell. They were little more than a society of scholars and historians who felt some connection to the fallen city. Their proud heritage as soldiers, committed to the destruction of the vallorn, had been diluted over time as their blood had become diluted with the blood of Axos. Half of those who attended the meetings and called themselves Blood of Cavan had only the most tenuous connection to their forbears – and they were seen as strange and a little touched in the head by their neighbours.

	The ~~Vallorn~~ of Cavan slept, said the people of Solokha. Why risk rousing its ire? You have become our brothers and sisters, why cleave to old ways that are without meaning? These word, said Reimos, simply served to make the Blood of Cavan more resolute in their commitment to a forgotten cause.		The vallorn of Cavan slept, said the people of Solokha. Why risk rousing its ire? You have become our brothers and sisters, why cleave to old ways that are without meaning? These word, said Reimos, simply served to make the Blood of Cavan more resolute in their commitment to a forgotten cause.

	By this time, some of the Navarr had come to Axos, by winding routes. The Blood of Cavan and those Navarr who came to Solokha... they did not find much common ground. Sadly, the centuries had taken them on different paths. The Blood of Cavan saw the Navarr as heirs to Terunael only in name, and assumed that they would bow their heads to them and take their lead. For their part, the Navarr saw the Blood of Cavan as pretenders who had achieved nothing in a millennium but expected to be treated as long-lost brothers and sisters. Few enough Navarr came to Solokha, or to Axos, anyway. Perhaps that is why our people knew so little of the Blood, and of the ~~Vallorn~~ here.		By this time, some of the Navarr had come to Axos, by winding routes. The Blood of Cavan and those Navarr who came to Solokha... they did not find much common ground. Sadly, the centuries had taken them on different paths. The Blood of Cavan saw the Navarr as heirs to Terunael only in name, and assumed that they would bow their heads to them and take their lead. For their part, the Navarr saw the Blood of Cavan as pretenders who had achieved nothing in a millennium but expected to be treated as long-lost brothers and sisters. Few enough Navarr came to Solokha, or to Axos, anyway. Perhaps that is why our people knew so little of the Blood, and of the vallorn here.

	They came through Mahal, along a narrow route through the high passes of [[Skoura]]. There was a spire in Mahal, said Reimos, inhabited by Urizeni diplomats and scholars, who sometimes spoke to Solokha on behalf of the Empire.		They came through Mahal, along a narrow route through the high passes of [[Skoura]]. There was a spire in Mahal, said Reimos, inhabited by Urizeni diplomats and scholars, who sometimes spoke to Solokha on behalf of the Empire.

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:54, 18 July 2025
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	'''For Siân Eternal the Advisor on the Vallorn'''<br>		'''For Siân Eternal the Advisor on the Vallorn'''<br>

	It has been a long three months. I am going through my notes, ~~marveling~~ at how far we have come. Collecting my thoughts while torrential rain pounds against the canvas above my head. Back home, it would be a cold Winter night but here... here the nights are warm. Warmer than [[Therunin]], heavy and humid and oppressive. It is hard to sleep, even without the constant sounds of the forest beasts. Forest? Jungle more like – but with the abhorrent fecundity of the vallorn it is sometimes hard to be certain.		It has been a long three months. I am going through my notes, marvelling at how far we have come. Collecting my thoughts while torrential rain pounds against the canvas above my head. Back home, it would be a cold Winter night but here... here the nights are warm. Warmer than [[Therunin]], heavy and humid and oppressive. It is hard to sleep, even without the constant sounds of the forest beasts. Forest? Jungle more like – but with the abhorrent fecundity of the vallorn it is sometimes hard to be certain.

	===To Axos===		===To Axos===
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	For a century and a half, the Terunael built Cavan amid the great weirwood forests at the heart of Axos. The Axou paid tribute to the Terunael, but they also learned from them how to build their citadels even larger. The three aqueducts of Kantor, said Istacia, were originally based on a design the Terunael used to bring water to Cavan, and with innovations such as these the Axou were able to grow their citadels to a size many had never dreamed of.		For a century and a half, the Terunael built Cavan amid the great weirwood forests at the heart of Axos. The Axou paid tribute to the Terunael, but they also learned from them how to build their citadels even larger. The three aqueducts of Kantor, said Istacia, were originally based on a design the Terunael used to bring water to Cavan, and with innovations such as these the Axou were able to grow their citadels to a size many had never dreamed of.

	In the end, though, things began to go awry. The orcs of [[The Semmerlak#The Mallum\|the Mallum]] attacked the roads that connected Béantal Dol and Tharunind to Cavan. They pressed south into Kabanja, threatening Kaban, ~~Soloha~~, and Ipotavo. The Axou called to the Terunael of Cavan to aid them, in accord with their treaties, but the inhabitants of the city refused. The treaties were cast aside. The Grand Ilarchs of Issyk, Malykop, and Kantor came to the aid of their fellows and a terrible war raged. The orcs were held but it was only a matter of time before they ruined the three western citadels.		In the end, though, things began to go awry. The orcs of [[The Semmerlak#The Mallum\|the Mallum]] attacked the roads that connected Béantal Dol and Tharunind to Cavan. They pressed south into Kabanja, threatening Kaban, Solokha, and Ipotavo. The Axou called to the Terunael of Cavan to aid them, in accord with their treaties, but the inhabitants of the city refused. The treaties were cast aside. The Grand Ilarchs of Issyk, Malykop, and Kantor came to the aid of their fellows and a terrible war raged. The orcs were held but it was only a matter of time before they ruined the three western citadels.

	Some Terunael warriors disobeyed their leaders, however, and came to the aid of the Axou. They helped to keep the orcs at bay. They earned the respect of the people of the citadels. This served them in good stead when the catastrophe occurred.		Some Terunael warriors disobeyed their leaders, however, and came to the aid of the Axou. They helped to keep the orcs at bay. They earned the respect of the people of the citadels. This served them in good stead when the catastrophe occurred.
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	In Kantor and Issyk, some survivors were given a different choice – turn back to the vallorn or become slaves. Some chose to die rather than serve, but it is recorded that as many as a thousand survivors became slaves of the Axou they had previously disdained. Over time, as the practice of slavery fell out of favour, the descendants of there slaves became free citizens of Axos or left the nation in pursuit of their own destiny.		In Kantor and Issyk, some survivors were given a different choice – turn back to the vallorn or become slaves. Some chose to die rather than serve, but it is recorded that as many as a thousand survivors became slaves of the Axou they had previously disdained. Over time, as the practice of slavery fell out of favour, the descendants of there slaves became free citizens of Axos or left the nation in pursuit of their own destiny.

	In the end, regardless of how they survived, the children of Cavan met one of two fates. Most disappeared into the blood of Axos, leaving behind the memory of Terunael and being Axou in all things. Their blood mingled with the blood of the Sorcerer-Kings, and they are simply Axou. A small handful of families maintained some of the traditions of Terunael-in-exile, working to try and discover a way to reclaim Cavan. Today they are gone as well – they lived in ~~Soloha~~ which was destroyed by the Empire in the reign of [[Emperor Nicovar]].		In the end, regardless of how they survived, the children of Cavan met one of two fates. Most disappeared into the blood of Axos, leaving behind the memory of Terunael and being Axou in all things. Their blood mingled with the blood of the Sorcerer-Kings, and they are simply Axou. A small handful of families maintained some of the traditions of Terunael-in-exile, working to try and discover a way to reclaim Cavan. Today they are gone as well – they lived in Solokha which was destroyed by the Empire in the reign of [[Emperor Nicovar]].

	For my part, once Istacia had completed her lecture, I shared with her what is commonly known about the cities in the west. Some of this was known to her, but much of it was new. She was fascinated to learn that Béantal Dol was lost to our memory as Cavan was, and to hear of [[Miaren]], [[Liathaven]], [[Brocéliande]], and Therunin. She cursed her old bones – she would not countenance a trip to the Empire but it was clear she greatly desired to look on Seren at the very least.		For my part, once Istacia had completed her lecture, I shared with her what is commonly known about the cities in the west. Some of this was known to her, but much of it was new. She was fascinated to learn that Béantal Dol was lost to our memory as Cavan was, and to hear of [[Miaren]], [[Liathaven]], [[Brocéliande]], and Therunin. She cursed her old bones – she would not countenance a trip to the Empire but it was clear she greatly desired to look on Seren at the very least.
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	I think. Istacia says there was a road that connected Cavan to Béantal Dol, and in some way to Therunin. I might be able to find out more if I travel to the north-west, to Kabanja, and visit with the inhabitants of Ipotavo. Such an investigation may also be helpful in working out how we might connect Cavan to the trods and begin to leech the vallorn power from Visokuma.		I think. Istacia says there was a road that connected Cavan to Béantal Dol, and in some way to Therunin. I might be able to find out more if I travel to the north-west, to Kabanja, and visit with the inhabitants of Ipotavo. Such an investigation may also be helpful in working out how we might connect Cavan to the trods and begin to leech the vallorn power from Visokuma.

	It is also possible that if we stay in Axos and continue to investigate the impact of Terunael on the Victorious Axis that we may be able to learn more about these descendants of Terunael who lived in the fallen citadel of ~~Soloha~~.		It is also possible that if we stay in Axos and continue to investigate the impact of Terunael on the Victorious Axis that we may be able to learn more about these descendants of Terunael who lived in the fallen citadel of Solokha.

	Alternatively, I can begin the long journey back to the Empire, and a more reasonable climate. I leave the matter in your hands, Advisor.		Alternatively, I can begin the long journey back to the Empire, and a more reasonable climate. I leave the matter in your hands, Advisor.
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	===From the histories of Maykop===		===From the histories of Maykop===
	Most of the sources we were permitted to study agreed with what Istacia had already told us. Some “scholarly” treatises attempted to recast the past in terms more palatable to modern audiences, speaking of “misunderstandings” and “unfortunate ~~incidents”~~ but these smacked of the worst kind of revisionism. In the older books and scrolls, a stark, cruel history of oppression unfolded. Our ancestors' hands were not clean of blood – they had taken it upon themselves to conquer a sovereign nation by force of arms, to seize its territory, and in the end had paid the ultimate price.		Most of the sources we were permitted to study agreed with what Istacia had already told us. Some “scholarly” treatises attempted to recast the past in terms more palatable to modern audiences, speaking of “misunderstandings” and “unfortunate incidents,” but these smacked of the worst kind of revisionism. In the older books and scrolls, a stark, cruel history of oppression unfolded. Our ancestors' hands were not clean of blood – they had taken it upon themselves to conquer a sovereign nation by force of arms, to seize its territory, and in the end had paid the ultimate price.

	That the Axos Nicitis was driven by vengeance long-denied is hard to refute. Yet, perhaps there are those in the Empire who would have done the same if the opportunity presented itself. People are cruel, and not so different the world over.		That the Axos Nicitis was driven by vengeance long-denied is hard to refute. Yet, perhaps there are those in the Empire who would have done the same if the opportunity presented itself. People are cruel, and not so different from the world over.

	There was some little ray of hope however. That Terunael blood survives in the veins of the Axou is without doubt. Here and there would be references to “heirs of Cavan” - sometimes quite prominent figures whose ancestry traced to the last generation of the doomed Terunael city. Some more recent texts seemed to believe “Cavan” was simply the name of an obscure ancestor, presented as a somewhat cruel courtier at one city or another or (more rarely) a powerful Spring magician whose magic overwhelmed him. It was fascinating to see the name recorded alongside other prominent Axou ancestors – although nowhere near as prestigious as the Six Sorcerer-Kings of course.		There was some little ray of hope, however. That Terunael blood survives in the veins of the Axou is without doubt. Here and there would be references to “heirs of Cavan” - sometimes quite prominent figures whose ancestry traced to the last generation of the doomed Terunael city. Some more recent texts seemed to believe “Cavan” was simply the name of an obscure ancestor, presented as a somewhat cruel courtier at one city or another or (more rarely) a powerful Spring magician whose magic overwhelmed him. It was fascinating to see the name recorded alongside other prominent Axou ancestors – although nowhere near as prestigious as the Six Sorcerer-Kings, of course.

	We found ~~also~~ confirmation that the Citadel of Solokha did indeed offer sanctuary to some of the refugees of Cavan. The refuge they offered was not unconditional however. According to several old documents the Grand Ilarch of ancient Solokha, at the time of the destruction of Terunael, refused to allow the “great sorcerers” of Cavan to take refuge, forcing them back into the jaws of the spreading vallorn. Those who were taken in by the Spires were soldiers, crafters, and farmers rather than nobles. It is easy to see why the people of Solokha might have been reticent to offer a home to the magicians whose ritual had just destroyed their city. Furthermore those “grand sorcerers” were most likely the nobles and rulers of Cavan – people who had treated the people of Axos as servants for so many years.		We also found confirmation that the Citadel of Solokha did indeed offer sanctuary to some of the refugees of Cavan. The refuge they offered was not unconditional, however. According to several old documents the Grand Ilarch of ancient Solokha, at the time of the destruction of Terunael, refused to allow the “great sorcerers” of Cavan to take refuge, forcing them back into the jaws of the spreading vallorn. Those who were taken in by the Spires were soldiers, crafters, and farmers rather than nobles. It is easy to see why the people of Solokha might have been reticent to offer a home to the magicians whose ritual had just destroyed their city. Furthermore, those “grand sorcerers” were most likely the nobles and rulers of Cavan – people who had treated the people of Axos as servants for so many years.

	I was also able to read several accounts of Solokha, but here my access was greatly restricted. The librarians were happy to bring me books that decried the Empire as cowardly traitors and assassins, which tended to focus on the tragic loss of Solokha rather than on anything to do with Terunael survivors.		I was also able to read several accounts of Solokha, but here my access was greatly restricted. The librarians were happy to bring me books that decried the Empire as cowardly traitors and assassins, which tended to focus on the tragic loss of Solokha, rather than on anything to do with Terunael survivors.

	One thing I did glean from these tracts, however, was that there were still some people living near Solokha as recently as twenty years ago – hermits in the hills near where the citadel had once stood. They were descendants of the citadel dwellers, and if I could locate them they may well be able to tell me more of the Terunael who had taken refuge there.		One thing I did glean from these tracts, however, was that there were still some people living near Solokha as recently as twenty years ago – hermits in the hills near where the citadel had once stood. They were descendants of the citadel dwellers, and if I could locate them they may well be able to tell me more of the Terunael who had taken refuge there.
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	Our stay here was not extended; after much discussion with Istacia, we resolved to bypass the Chambers of Issyk and travel overland to Ipotavo. Imperial citizens are not welcome in Issyk, which makes little secret of the fact that it prefers the patronage of the Grendel orcs of the Broken Shore to the favour of the Empire. It was doubtful the Grand Ilarch himself would move against us, but it would be all too easy for someone who sought to curry favour with the Grendel to harm us, or to imprison us, or sell us to their orc allies.		Our stay here was not extended; after much discussion with Istacia, we resolved to bypass the Chambers of Issyk and travel overland to Ipotavo. Imperial citizens are not welcome in Issyk, which makes little secret of the fact that it prefers the patronage of the Grendel orcs of the Broken Shore to the favour of the Empire. It was doubtful the Grand Ilarch himself would move against us, but it would be all too easy for someone who sought to curry favour with the Grendel to harm us, or to imprison us, or sell us to their orc allies.

	With that in mind, and with our funds low, we hired a single ox wagon. Istacia sent her own grand-niece Ekimunna to accompany us and serve as a guide. A pleasant conversationalist, Ekimunna had little of her great-aunt's scholarship. She was a freelance scout, who accompanied expeditions such as ours on a regular basis, and possessed an encyclopaedic knowledge of the lands through which we would pass.		With that in mind, and with our funds low, we hired a single ox wagon. Istacia sent her own grand-niece Ekimunna to accompany us and serve as a guide. A pleasant conversationalist, Ekimunna had little of her great-aunt's scholarship. She was a freelance scout who accompanied expeditions such as ours on a regular basis, and possessed an encyclopaedic knowledge of the lands through which we would pass.

	We gave Issyk a wide berth while keeping to the roads. This proved to be more difficult than we might have imagined. Axos does not have very many roads in truth and they tend to serve solely to connect the citadels to each other. We travelled for three weeks along winding tracks connecting sprawling farms, far from urban civilisation. It put me in mind from time to time of traveling the trods, but without the great energy and vitality that comes from their magic. Sometimes days would pass without us seeing another traveller – most pilgrims are traveling between the citadels, or toward the citadels, not moving between them.		We gave Issyk a wide berth, while keeping to the roads. This proved to be more difficult than we might have imagined. Axos does not have very many roads, in truth, and they tend to serve solely to connect the citadels to each other. We travelled for three weeks along winding tracks connecting sprawling farms, far from urban civilisation. It put me in mind from time to time of traveling the trods, but without the great energy and vitality that comes from their magic. Sometimes days would pass without us seeing another traveller – most pilgrims are traveling between the citadels, or toward the citadels, not moving between them.

	After nearly a month, we reached Ipotavo.		After nearly a month, we reached Ipotavo.

	===The gates of Ipotavo===		===The gates of Ipotavo===
	The Gates of Ipotavo is the last true citadel along the north-western borders of Axos. Incredibly heavily fortified, it is built into the gentle side of a low mountain and surrounded by multiple rings of walls. Each wall bears three gates; there are seven walls in all. The highest point of the citadel reaches above the peak of the mountain, and is topped with a beacon that is barely visible in the day and sends out three equidistant beams of dim radiance at night.		The Gates of Ipotavo is the last true citadel along the north-western borders of Axos. Incredibly heavily fortified, it is built into the gentle side of a low mountain, and surrounded by multiple rings of walls. Each wall bears three gates; there are seven walls in all. The highest point of the citadel reaches above the peak of the mountain and is topped with a beacon that is barely visible in the day and sends out three equidistant beams of dim radiance at night.

	To the north and south of the city spreads a solid, remarkably thick stone wall supported by white granite. It is patrolled day and night by silent, unmoving sentinels. The wall blocks a narrow valley that provides what appears to be the only easy route into eastern Axos. Ipotavo guards the richer citadels of Issyk, Maykop, and Kantor from the threat of the Druj, and there is some resentment here.		To the north and south of the city spreads a solid, remarkably thick stone wall supported by white granite. It is patrolled day and night by silent, unmoving sentinels. The wall blocks a narrow valley that provides what appears to be the only easy route into eastern Axos. Ipotavo guards the richer citadels of Issyk, Maykop, and Kantor from the threat of the Druj, and there is some resentment here.