The war of thorns and flowers - Revision history

Twiggy at 01:35, 19 March 2026

2026-03-19T01:35:12Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:35, 19 March 2026
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	<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px;">		<div style="display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr; gap: 10px;">
	{{SOPInner\|statement=Virtue demands more than fine words and good intentions. The Empire is mighty but it is finite. The Synod provokes war with Asavea and the vallorn at a time when our armies are already stretched too thin. The Empire's people will suffer the consequences. The people of Wintermark must prepare for the storm to come. We cannot support the Navarr at the exclusion of every other threat we face. Make ready for them all. Cleave to your loyalties, provision your halls and prepare for more hard winters. We will not be broken.\|by=Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark, Wintermark Assembly\|vote=Greater Majority 266-35\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}		{{SOPInner\|statement=Virtue demands more than fine words and good intentions. The Empire is mighty but it is finite. The Synod provokes war with Asavea and the vallorn at a time when our armies are already stretched too thin. The Empire's people will suffer the consequences. The people of Wintermark must prepare for the storm to come. We cannot support the Navarr at the exclusion of every other threat we face. Make ready for them all. Cleave to your loyalties, provision your halls and prepare for more hard winters. We will not be broken.\|by=Ingrid Talon-of-the-Mark, Wintermark Assembly\|vote=Greater Majority 266-35\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
	{{SOPInner\|statement=The Navarr show Courage in their Ambition to remove the threat of the ~~Vallorn~~ for good. In Loyalty and Courage, we are being called to support this by taking Pride in our magical prowess to support the creation of their army in Miaren that focuses on a mage based front.\|by=Eurydice Starchaser, Urizen Assembly\|vote=150-0\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}		{{SOPInner\|statement=The Navarr show Courage in their Ambition to remove the threat of the vallorn for good. In Loyalty and Courage, we are being called to support this by taking Pride in our magical prowess to support the creation of their army in Miaren that focuses on a mage based front.\|by=Eurydice Starchaser, Urizen Assembly\|vote=150-0\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
	{{SOPInner\|statement=Once again we are called to action and to glory by our neighbours. The Navarr have committed to eradicating the vallorn once and for all. The League and Varushkans have offered their aid. Dawn will not be found wanting. Great deeds are eternal; let us carve them into the bark of any vallorn who dares oppose us. The people of Dawn shall march with our siblings in the Way to destroy the vallorn now. Let us commit to a War of Thorns and Flowers.\|by=Larkin Shrike of House Du Beste, Dawn Assembly\|vote=282-64\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}		{{SOPInner\|statement=Once again we are called to action and to glory by our neighbours. The Navarr have committed to eradicating the vallorn once and for all. The League and Varushkans have offered their aid. Dawn will not be found wanting. Great deeds are eternal; let us carve them into the bark of any vallorn who dares oppose us. The people of Dawn shall march with our siblings in the Way to destroy the vallorn now. Let us commit to a War of Thorns and Flowers.\|by=Larkin Shrike of House Du Beste, Dawn Assembly\|vote=282-64\|when=Autumn Equinox 386YE}}
	</div>		</div>

Hailmur: /* The Threat From Sküld */

2026-02-05T16:01:05Z

The Threat From Sküld

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:01, 5 February 2026
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	<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Location:''' Suvretz, Volodmartz</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Location:''' Suvretz, Volodmartz</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Cost:''' ~~150~~ wains of white granite, 30 wains of weirwood, ~~540~~ crowns, 6 seasons to complete</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 130 wains of white granite, 20 wains of weirwood, 450 crowns, 6 seasons to complete</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 20 Thrones</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 20 Thrones</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Builds a rank 2 fortification in Suvretz</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Builds a rank 2 fortification in Suvretz</td></tr>
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	The old plans for ''Irontooth Keep'' have been pulled out and dusted off. There's no reason that the ruins couldn't be built into a massive new bastion, forcing anyone planning to attack Suvretz to think twice about their ambitions. The original costs for the project are out-of-date as time has moved on, but this plan for an upgraded fortification wouldn't cost any more than normal. The big advantage is that it could be done ''quickly''.		The old plans for ''Irontooth Keep'' have been pulled out and dusted off. There's no reason that the ruins couldn't be built into a massive new bastion, forcing anyone planning to attack Suvretz to think twice about their ambitions. The original costs for the project are out-of-date as time has moved on, but this plan for an upgraded fortification wouldn't cost any more than normal. The big advantage is that it could be done ''quickly''.

	The great ''Irontooth Keep'' would require ~~150~~ white granite and 30 weirwood to construct, with labour costs of ~~540~~ crowns. Under normal circumstances, it would take two years to finish, but the existence of the strong foundations and the assistance of the ''koboldi'' would each reduce that construction time by one season. If the same magics as were employed to speed the completion of [[Karsk#Aleksandra's_Watch\|Alexandra's Watch]] could be employed, [[Volodmartz]] could conceivably have a major fortification to rival the [[Casinea#The_Silent_Sentinel\|Silent Sentinel]] in [[Casinea]] or [[Reikos#Remember_Exile\|Remember Exile]] in [[Reikos]] in less than a year!		The great ''Irontooth Keep'' would require 130 white granite and 20 weirwood to construct, with labour costs of 450 crowns. Under normal circumstances, it would take two years to finish, but the existence of the strong foundations and the assistance of the ''koboldi'' would each reduce that construction time by one season. If the same magics as were employed to speed the completion of [[Karsk#Aleksandra's_Watch\|Alexandra's Watch]] could be employed, [[Volodmartz]] could conceivably have a major fortification to rival the [[Casinea#The_Silent_Sentinel\|Silent Sentinel]] in [[Casinea]] or [[Reikos#Remember_Exile\|Remember Exile]] in [[Reikos]] in less than a year!

	Following the Winter Solstice 383YE, the newly appointed [[Master of the Koboldi]] spoke with the civil service about the feasibility of undertaking the work to build a fortification here. There is no barrier to them doing so - they are explicitly allowed to [[Master_of_the_Koboldi#Commission_stone_construction\|announce that they will work]] on a [[fortification]], and that would allow them to create a new bastion. Indeed, the ''koboldi'' still remain enthusiastic about the opportunity to work on this massive fortress.		Following the Winter Solstice 383YE, the newly appointed [[Master of the Koboldi]] spoke with the civil service about the feasibility of undertaking the work to build a fortification here. There is no barrier to them doing so - they are explicitly allowed to [[Master_of_the_Koboldi#Commission_stone_construction\|announce that they will work]] on a [[fortification]], and that would allow them to create a new bastion. Indeed, the ''koboldi'' still remain enthusiastic about the opportunity to work on this massive fortress.

Hailmur at 11:36, 5 February 2026

2026-02-05T11:36:53Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:36, 5 February 2026
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	<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 150 wains of white granite, 30 wains of weirwood, 540 crowns, 6 seasons to complete</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 150 wains of white granite, 30 wains of weirwood, 540 crowns, 6 seasons to complete</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 20 Thrones</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 20 Thrones</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Effect:''' ~~Provides~~ a ~~12000 strength~~ fortification in Suvretz</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Builds a rank 2 fortification in Suvretz</td></tr>
	</table>		</table>
	</div>		</div>

Matt: /* The Threat From Sküld */

2026-02-05T11:20:02Z

The Threat From Sküld

Matt at 14:19, 27 January 2026

2026-01-27T14:19:12Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:19, 27 January 2026
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	* [[The first shot]] - 386YE Autumn wind of fortune detailing the change to the stridings and the new armies		* [[The first shot]] - 386YE Autumn wind of fortune detailing the change to the stridings and the new armies
	* [[The final countdown]] - 386YE Summer wind of fortune detailing the choice whether to begin the final war against the vallorn		* [[The final countdown]] - 386YE Summer wind of fortune detailing the choice whether to begin the final war against the vallorn

			==Edit==
			The page has been updated to remove the section that introduced citadels following a recent [[Rules update 2026#Fortifications\|rules update]].

Matt: /* All Along the Watchtower */

2026-01-27T14:17:57Z

All Along the Watchtower

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:17, 27 January 2026
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	To ensure that all citizens have equal access to such information, the civil service have arranged to publish these figures. After careful prognostication, they have identified that ''last season'' the road networks of the Empire contributed 117 thrones, 1 crown and 16 rings. In addition to that sum, they provided 304 additional ingots or measures. Of course these figures vary over time - but those were the figures last season.		To ensure that all citizens have equal access to such information, the civil service have arranged to publish these figures. After careful prognostication, they have identified that ''last season'' the road networks of the Empire contributed 117 thrones, 1 crown and 16 rings. In addition to that sum, they provided 304 additional ingots or measures. Of course these figures vary over time - but those were the figures last season.

	~~===All Along the Watchtower===~~
	~~<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">~~
	~~<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Citadel'''</tr>~~
	~~<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>~~
	~~<tr><td>'''Location:''' Any single region the Empire controls</td></tr>~~
	~~<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 80 wains of white granite, 240 crowns, 1 year to complete</td></tr>~~
	~~<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 10 Thrones</td></tr>~~
	~~<tr><td>'''Effect:'''~~
	* Provides a 6000 strength fortification in that region. The strength of this fortification is not doubled when attacked
	* The citadel takes 80% less damage when attacked but does not benefit from resupply
	* Citadels provide no benefit to other regions in the territory
	* Citadels do not remove the undefended penalty from a territory unless attacked directly
	* Citadels are considered equivalent to a fortification, for all rules that would apply to a fortification, e.g. who can build or repair them, rituals that affect them, etc.
	~~</td></tr>~~
	~~</table>~~
	~~</div>~~
	* '''The Empire could build a citadel rather than a fortification'''
	* '''A citadel would only provide a benefit if the region it was in was attacked'''
	* '''A basic citadel would have a defensive strength of 6000 and take 80% less casualties when attacked'''
	''Federico von Apulian'' is an architect living in the new League territory of [[Spiral]]. Rather than living in [[Spiral#Apulus\|Apulus]] itself, Federico is currently enjoying the hospitality of the ''Citadel of the Star'' in [[Spiral#Ossuary\|Ossuary]]. The citadel is home to a small, but thriving community of Urizen [[architect\|architects]]. Their [[arbiter]], ''Hadrien'', has been collaborating with Federico on a grand new idea, one that combines the best ideas of civil engineering pioneered by the League with traditional Urizen approaches of building isolated defensive citadels for people to live in.

	Together, they have proposed a new [[commission]] for the Imperial Senate to invest in. Current Imperial [[fortification\|fortifications]] sacrifice defensive strength for flexibility, allowing the garrison to project force across the territory. The price of that benefit is that the fortification is made more vulnerable to collapse than it needs to be.

	That is a major concern for Hadrien and Federico. They point out that the violence of [[Spring magic]] is often drawn to substantial commissions, and most especially to fortifications. If that holds true when the vallornhearts are linked, then the spawn might pour forth and quickly overpower the defences and tear down any nearby fortifications. Pointing to magic such as [[Rising Roots that Rend Stone]] and [[Thunderous Tread of the Trees]], Hadrien cautiously expresses a concern that vallorn forces might ultimately prove more effective at destroying fortifications than an army of mortal soldiers.

	Instead, they propose the Senate commission ''citadels'', massively fortified structures in the style of Urizen citadels but on a much larger scale. Their proposal for a basic citadel would cost the same as a fortification - 80 white granite and 240 crowns - and take a year to build. But it would produce a defensive structure with a military strength of 6000 if it were attacked (and proportionately higher for bigger citadels). It would have the same upkeep as a fortification, 10 thrones a season, but it would be much more difficult to tear down, reducing casualties taken by the structure by 80% when attacked. The drawback for all those benefits is that it would only provide protection to the region it was in; it wouldn't help protect the rest of the territory in any way, and it would not be able to benefit from any [[Casualties#Natural_Resupply\|natural resupply]].

	There are several vallornhearts in the Empire from which their spawn are likely to boil out of once the hearts are joined. Eventually, the Empire will need to overcome these armies of vallornspawn and destroy them, but the initial problem will be preventing them from over-running the Empire and laying waste to every trace of civilisation in their path. The armies of the vallorn could well rip through a regular fortification without pausing for breath, but a well-defended citadel might be enough to slow them down. And if the armies of the vallorn burned themselves out on the walls of a citadel, that would be even better.

	The big weakness of a citadel - that a regular army might just go round it - might be offset against the vallorn who are likely to target such structures. It might even make it easier for the Empire to plan where the attacks would come. If the Empire built one or more citadels in regions adjacent to a vallornheart, then they could guarantee that it would be the first structure attacked when the vallornhearts are joined.

	Hadrien and Federico have passed a complete set of their proposals to the civil service, who have confirmed that the plans are viable. The Imperial Senate could commission a citadel in place of a fortification in any location and at any time. This is the first real widely-applicable benefit from a fusion of League and Urizen thinking, but the Citadel of the Star hopes it will not be the last.
	<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Assembly_Varushkan.png\|align=right\|width=200}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 200px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Assembly_Varushkan.png\|align=right\|width=200}}</div>

Twiggy at 02:31, 22 January 2026

2026-01-22T02:31:45Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:31, 22 January 2026
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	{{PDFLink\|align=right\|link=File:The war of thorns and flowers.pdf\|caption=Click for pdf version}}		{{PDFLink\|align=right\|link=File:The war of thorns and flowers.pdf\|caption=Click for pdf version}}
	==Overview==		==Overview==
	The nations of the Empire have begun to rise to the challenge of the coming [[A thousand years of longing\|war with the vallorn]], determined to be ready for this apocalyptic war. The [[Highguard\|Highborn]] have called the [[Grey pilgrim\|grey pilgrims]] home, allowing them to raise another [[~~Imperial army\|~~army]]. [[The League]] have asked their most ambitious and innovative people to study the problem, while the [[Varushka\|Varushkans]] have sought to draw on dark powers to battle civilisation's most implacable enemy.		The nations of the Empire have begun to rise to the challenge of the coming [[A thousand years of longing\|war with the vallorn]], determined to be ready for this apocalyptic war. The [[Highguard\|Highborn]] have called the [[Grey pilgrim\|grey pilgrims]] home, allowing them to raise another [[army]]. [[The League]] have asked their most ambitious and innovative people to study the problem, while the [[Varushka\|Varushkans]] have sought to draw on dark powers to battle civilisation's most implacable enemy.

	For now, the [[Dawn\|Dawnish]], often first to battle, are not yet ready to commit to the fight. Some are [[Dawn_hearth_magic#Girding\|girding]] themselves for this War of Thorns and Flowers, as one [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_59\|creative troubadour calls it]], but their assembly, like that of the [[Urizen]], did not back it with a greater majority. Perhaps that will change in the future as the day comes closer. The [[Wintermark]] Assembly have [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_74\|taken the opposite position]], stating firmly that they cannot support the Navarr at this time.		For now, the [[Dawn\|Dawnish]], often first to battle, are not yet ready to commit to the fight. Some are [[Dawn_hearth_magic#Girding\|girding]] themselves for this War of Thorns and Flowers, as one [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_59\|creative troubadour calls it]], but their assembly, like that of the [[Urizen]], did not back it with a greater majority. Perhaps that will change in the future as the day comes closer. The [[Wintermark]] Assembly have [[386YE_Autumn_Equinox_Synod_judgements#Judgement_74\|taken the opposite position]], stating firmly that they cannot support the Navarr at this time.

Twiggy at 02:27, 22 January 2026

2026-01-22T02:27:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:27, 22 January 2026
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	The tide of grey pilgrims returning home is a trickle at first, but it soon turns into a flood. Loved ones are reunited, families re-joined, friendships restored. There are celebrations across Highguard as people embrace the returning heroes. But the celebratory mood soon turns sombre. This is the feast ''before'' the battle, not after it. The grey pilgrims have come home because the horns of war have been winded.		The tide of grey pilgrims returning home is a trickle at first, but it soon turns into a flood. Loved ones are reunited, families re-joined, friendships restored. There are celebrations across Highguard as people embrace the returning heroes. But the celebratory mood soon turns sombre. This is the feast ''before'' the battle, not after it. The grey pilgrims have come home because the horns of war have been winded.

	Highguard gave up the potential to raise a fourth army five years ago, when they committed themselves to the pilgrimage against the vallorn. Now the pilgrims have come home, eager to fight, that potential is reclaimed. The [[~~Imperial_army~~#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces\|maximum number of armies]] that Highguard can support has now increased to four.		Highguard gave up the potential to raise a fourth army five years ago, when they committed themselves to the pilgrimage against the vallorn. Now the pilgrims have come home, eager to fight, that potential is reclaimed. The [[Army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces\|maximum number of armies]] that Highguard can support has now increased to four.

	At any point where the [[Senate]] approves the [[~~Imperial_army~~#Senate_Commissions\|creation]] of a new Highborn army, the grey pilgrims will flock to the banner, eager to begin the final battle. They will form the core of the new army, giving it a beating heart that drives it forwards. The determination of the grey pilgrims to defeat the vallorn will define the [[~~Imperial_army~~#Special_Quality\|army's special purpose]], preparing it for the final battle.		At any point where the [[Senate]] approves the [[Army#Senate_Commissions\|creation]] of a new Highborn army, the grey pilgrims will flock to the banner, eager to begin the final battle. They will form the core of the new army, giving it a beating heart that drives it forwards. The determination of the grey pilgrims to defeat the vallorn will define the [[Army#Special_Quality\|army's special purpose]], preparing it for the final battle.
	{{SOP\|by=Icarus of the Sepulchre of the Red Suns, Highborn Assembly\|statement=There is no sacrifice so great that we cannot meet it to defeat this terror. We send Hazelelponi with 200 liao to urge every Highborn to prepare for the coming battle. No price is too high to realise our dreams.\|vote=510-110 (Greater Majority)\|when=Autumn Equinox, 386YE}}		{{SOP\|by=Icarus of the Sepulchre of the Red Suns, Highborn Assembly\|statement=There is no sacrifice so great that we cannot meet it to defeat this terror. We send Hazelelponi with 200 liao to urge every Highborn to prepare for the coming battle. No price is too high to realise our dreams.\|vote=510-110 (Greater Majority)\|when=Autumn Equinox, 386YE}}
	The grey pilgrims have one demand - they will not join an army that is named for the [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Thundering_Tide_(Defunct)\|Thundering Tide]]. The Highborn Assembly passed a judgement calling for that to happen, but it did not get a greater majority. Had it received overwhelming support from the Assembly, then the pilgrims could have swallowed their [[Pride]], but it didn't. There are long-standing rumours that the Tide was infiltrated by a sect devoted to the [[Malign spiritual presences\|malign spiritual force]] of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatred\|Hatred]]. The grey pilgrims have always been staunchly dedicated to [[Grey_pilgrim#Oppose_Heresy_and_Idolatry\|opposing such malign influences]], and the majority of them will not join an army that marches under that name.		The grey pilgrims have one demand - they will not join an army that is named for the [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Thundering_Tide_(Defunct)\|Thundering Tide]]. The Highborn Assembly passed a judgement calling for that to happen, but it did not get a greater majority. Had it received overwhelming support from the Assembly, then the pilgrims could have swallowed their [[Pride]], but it didn't. There are long-standing rumours that the Tide was infiltrated by a sect devoted to the [[Malign spiritual presences\|malign spiritual force]] of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatred\|Hatred]]. The grey pilgrims have always been staunchly dedicated to [[Grey_pilgrim#Oppose_Heresy_and_Idolatry\|opposing such malign influences]], and the majority of them will not join an army that marches under that name.
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	* '''The Varushkans can support four armies; at present they have two armies remaining'''		* '''The Varushkans can support four armies; at present they have two armies remaining'''
	* '''The Varushkans could ask one or more sovereigns to help them build an army'''		* '''The Varushkans could ask one or more sovereigns to help them build an army'''
	Varushka is a wealthy and powerful nation with a great deal of territory under its control. Their lands are harsh and cruel, with many dangers, but they also contain great wealth in the forests that cover the hills and in the mines that lie beneath the mountains. At present, Varushka can [[~~Imperial_army~~#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces\|support four armies]], but with the destruction of the [[Iron Helms]] they currently have only two. That means they could, in theory, raise two new armies.		Varushka is a wealthy and powerful nation with a great deal of territory under its control. Their lands are harsh and cruel, with many dangers, but they also contain great wealth in the forests that cover the hills and in the mines that lie beneath the mountains. At present, Varushka can [[Army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces\|support four armies]], but with the destruction of the [[Iron Helms]] they currently have only two. That means they could, in theory, raise two new armies.

	Of course, doing so will be difficult - every [[boyar]] is currently thinking the same thing. Navarr want to raise several armies to fight the vallorn, the Highborn want to forge the grey pilgrims into a new army. Where is all the mithril going to come from to raise these forces? There isn't enough mithril to be had unless people wait for years for it to be produced. The Varushkans are an industrious people; sitting on your hands is nobody's idea of getting something done. The Highborn have a plan involving true liao and banners which is nice for them - the Varushkan approach is much more brutally pragmatic.		Of course, doing so will be difficult - every [[boyar]] is currently thinking the same thing. Navarr want to raise several armies to fight the vallorn, the Highborn want to forge the grey pilgrims into a new army. Where is all the mithril going to come from to raise these forces? There isn't enough mithril to be had unless people wait for years for it to be produced. The Varushkans are an industrious people; sitting on your hands is nobody's idea of getting something done. The Highborn have a plan involving true liao and banners which is nice for them - the Varushkan approach is much more brutally pragmatic.

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

2026-01-15T16:56:36Z

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

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:56, 15 January 2026
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	It would not be cheap to change the college. If the Senate ordered the work, it would need a commission for a [[college of magic]] and cost 540 crowns, but the Cabalists are prepared to pay half that sum, reducing the effective cost to 270 crowns.		It would not be cheap to change the college. If the Senate ordered the work, it would need a commission for a [[college of magic]] and cost 540 crowns, but the Cabalists are prepared to pay half that sum, reducing the effective cost to 270 crowns.

	There is an alternative, given that the College is under the remit of the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]]. The Conclave could use a declaration of [[Concord]] to have the regios in the Crag realigned. That would achieve the same effect but would cost 360 mana crystals; passing the declaration would see the mana removed from the font and used to realign the college. Again, the Cabalists would be prepared to fund this work, which they see as very important, reducing the effective cost to the font to 180 mana crystals.		There is an alternative, given that the College is under the remit of the [[Conclave]]. The Conclave could use a declaration of [[Concord]] to have the regios in the Crag realigned. That would achieve the same effect but would cost 360 mana crystals; passing the declaration would see the mana removed from the font and used to realign the college. Again, the Cabalists would be prepared to fund this work, which they see as very important, reducing the effective cost to the font to 180 mana crystals.

	There is some concern that the Summer eternals might be angered by the change - they have always fought jealously over the college and who offers their patronage to it. After some circumspect enquiry, the civil service are able to confirm that the Summer eternals would barely notice if the college ceased to be a college of Summer magic and they certainly wouldn't care. Their jealousy is provoked by the patronage of a rival eternal - the moment it stopped being a Summer eternal who was patron of the college, they would lose all interest in it.		There is some concern that the Summer eternals might be angered by the change - they have always fought jealously over the college and who offers their patronage to it. After some circumspect enquiry, the civil service are able to confirm that the Summer eternals would barely notice if the college ceased to be a college of Summer magic and they certainly wouldn't care. Their jealousy is provoked by the patronage of a rival eternal - the moment it stopped being a Summer eternal who was patron of the college, they would lose all interest in it.

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

2026-01-15T15:04:58Z

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

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:04, 15 January 2026
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	Highguard gave up the potential to raise a fourth army five years ago, when they committed themselves to the pilgrimage against the vallorn. Now the pilgrims have come home, eager to fight, that potential is reclaimed. The [[Imperial_army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces\|maximum number of armies]] that Highguard can support has now increased to four.		Highguard gave up the potential to raise a fourth army five years ago, when they committed themselves to the pilgrimage against the vallorn. Now the pilgrims have come home, eager to fight, that potential is reclaimed. The [[Imperial_army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces\|maximum number of armies]] that Highguard can support has now increased to four.

	At any point where the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate]] approves the [[Imperial_army#Senate_Commissions\|creation]] of a new Highborn army, the grey pilgrims will flock to the banner, eager to begin the final battle. They will form the core of the new army, giving it a beating heart that drives it forwards. The determination of the grey pilgrims to defeat the vallorn will define the [[Imperial_army#Special_Quality\|army's special purpose]], preparing it for the final battle.		At any point where the [[Senate]] approves the [[Imperial_army#Senate_Commissions\|creation]] of a new Highborn army, the grey pilgrims will flock to the banner, eager to begin the final battle. They will form the core of the new army, giving it a beating heart that drives it forwards. The determination of the grey pilgrims to defeat the vallorn will define the [[Imperial_army#Special_Quality\|army's special purpose]], preparing it for the final battle.
	{{SOP\|by=Icarus of the Sepulchre of the Red Suns, Highborn Assembly\|statement=There is no sacrifice so great that we cannot meet it to defeat this terror. We send Hazelelponi with 200 liao to urge every Highborn to prepare for the coming battle. No price is too high to realise our dreams.\|vote=510-110 (Greater Majority)\|when=Autumn Equinox, 386YE}}		{{SOP\|by=Icarus of the Sepulchre of the Red Suns, Highborn Assembly\|statement=There is no sacrifice so great that we cannot meet it to defeat this terror. We send Hazelelponi with 200 liao to urge every Highborn to prepare for the coming battle. No price is too high to realise our dreams.\|vote=510-110 (Greater Majority)\|when=Autumn Equinox, 386YE}}
	The grey pilgrims have one demand - they will not join an army that is named for the [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Thundering_Tide_(Defunct)\|Thundering Tide]]. The Highborn Assembly passed a judgement calling for that to happen, but it did not get a greater majority. Had it received overwhelming support from the Assembly, then the pilgrims could have swallowed their [[Pride]], but it didn't. There are long-standing rumours that the Tide was infiltrated by a sect devoted to the [[Malign spiritual presences\|malign spiritual force]] of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatred\|Hatred]]. The grey pilgrims have always been staunchly dedicated to [[Grey_pilgrim#Oppose_Heresy_and_Idolatry\|opposing such malign influences]], and the majority of them will not join an army that marches under that name.		The grey pilgrims have one demand - they will not join an army that is named for the [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Thundering_Tide_(Defunct)\|Thundering Tide]]. The Highborn Assembly passed a judgement calling for that to happen, but it did not get a greater majority. Had it received overwhelming support from the Assembly, then the pilgrims could have swallowed their [[Pride]], but it didn't. There are long-standing rumours that the Tide was infiltrated by a sect devoted to the [[Malign spiritual presences\|malign spiritual force]] of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatred\|Hatred]]. The grey pilgrims have always been staunchly dedicated to [[Grey_pilgrim#Oppose_Heresy_and_Idolatry\|opposing such malign influences]], and the majority of them will not join an army that marches under that name.

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:04, 15 January 2026
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	Highguard gave up the potential to raise a fourth army five years ago, when they committed themselves to the pilgrimage against the vallorn. Now the pilgrims have come home, eager to fight, that potential is reclaimed. The [[Imperial_army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces\|maximum number of armies]] that Highguard can support has now increased to four.		Highguard gave up the potential to raise a fourth army five years ago, when they committed themselves to the pilgrimage against the vallorn. Now the pilgrims have come home, eager to fight, that potential is reclaimed. The [[Imperial_army#Maximum_numbers_of_Imperial_Forces\|maximum number of armies]] that Highguard can support has now increased to four.

	At any point where the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate]] approves the [[Imperial_army#Senate_Commissions\|creation]] of a new Highborn army, the grey pilgrims will flock to the banner, eager to begin the final battle. They will form the core of the new army, giving it a beating heart that drives it forwards. The determination of the grey pilgrims to defeat the vallorn will define the [[Imperial_army#Special_Quality\|army's special purpose]], preparing it for the final battle.		At any point where the [[Senate]] approves the [[Imperial_army#Senate_Commissions\|creation]] of a new Highborn army, the grey pilgrims will flock to the banner, eager to begin the final battle. They will form the core of the new army, giving it a beating heart that drives it forwards. The determination of the grey pilgrims to defeat the vallorn will define the [[Imperial_army#Special_Quality\|army's special purpose]], preparing it for the final battle.
	{{SOP\|by=Icarus of the Sepulchre of the Red Suns, Highborn Assembly\|statement=There is no sacrifice so great that we cannot meet it to defeat this terror. We send Hazelelponi with 200 liao to urge every Highborn to prepare for the coming battle. No price is too high to realise our dreams.\|vote=510-110 (Greater Majority)\|when=Autumn Equinox, 386YE}}		{{SOP\|by=Icarus of the Sepulchre of the Red Suns, Highborn Assembly\|statement=There is no sacrifice so great that we cannot meet it to defeat this terror. We send Hazelelponi with 200 liao to urge every Highborn to prepare for the coming battle. No price is too high to realise our dreams.\|vote=510-110 (Greater Majority)\|when=Autumn Equinox, 386YE}}
	The grey pilgrims have one demand - they will not join an army that is named for the [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Thundering_Tide_(Defunct)\|Thundering Tide]]. The Highborn Assembly passed a judgement calling for that to happen, but it did not get a greater majority. Had it received overwhelming support from the Assembly, then the pilgrims could have swallowed their [[Pride]], but it didn't. There are long-standing rumours that the Tide was infiltrated by a sect devoted to the [[Malign spiritual presences\|malign spiritual force]] of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatred\|Hatred]]. The grey pilgrims have always been staunchly dedicated to [[Grey_pilgrim#Oppose_Heresy_and_Idolatry\|opposing such malign influences]], and the majority of them will not join an army that marches under that name.		The grey pilgrims have one demand - they will not join an army that is named for the [[Highguard_military_concerns#The_Thundering_Tide_(Defunct)\|Thundering Tide]]. The Highborn Assembly passed a judgement calling for that to happen, but it did not get a greater majority. Had it received overwhelming support from the Assembly, then the pilgrims could have swallowed their [[Pride]], but it didn't. There are long-standing rumours that the Tide was infiltrated by a sect devoted to the [[Malign spiritual presences\|malign spiritual force]] of [[Malign spiritual presences#Hatred\|Hatred]]. The grey pilgrims have always been staunchly dedicated to [[Grey_pilgrim#Oppose_Heresy_and_Idolatry\|opposing such malign influences]], and the majority of them will not join an army that marches under that name.

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:20, 5 February 2026
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	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">
	<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Irontooth Keep'''</tr>		<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightBlue;">'''Irontooth Keep'''</tr>
	<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification ~~(Citadel)~~</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Commission Type:''' Fortification</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Location:''' Suvretz, Volodmartz</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Location:''' Suvretz, Volodmartz</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 150 wains of white granite, 30 wains of weirwood, 540 crowns, 6 seasons to complete</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 150 wains of white granite, 30 wains of weirwood, 540 crowns, 6 seasons to complete</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 18 Thrones</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Upkeep:''' 20 Thrones</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Provides a 12000 strength ~~citadel~~ in Suvretz</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Provides a 12000 strength fortification in Suvretz</td></tr>
	</table>		</table>
	</div>		</div>
	* '''The vallornheart in Sküld is the one nearest to Varushka'''		* '''The vallornheart in Sküld is the one nearest to Varushka'''
	* '''At present there is nothing to stop the vallorn pouring out of Sküld and into the forests of Suvretz'''		* '''At present there is nothing to stop the vallorn pouring out of Sküld and into the forests of Suvretz'''
	* '''The Varushkans could build a ~~citadel~~ in Suvretz that would also defend against any attack from the Thule in the near future'''		* '''The Varushkans could build a fortification in Suvretz that would also defend against any attack from the Thule in the near future'''
	For years now there have been calls to [[Sowing_on_the_mountains#Irontooth_Keep\|fortify Suvretz to defend the region against the Thule]]. Peace with the [[Thule]] has perhaps seduced the soft-hearted, making them imagine that this state of affairs will last forever. Nothing lasts forever. In the end, even the mountains will fall. One day, the Thule armies will come, and when they do, they will likely come for [[Volodmartz#Suvretz\|Suvretz]] first.		For years now there have been calls to [[Sowing_on_the_mountains#Irontooth_Keep\|fortify Suvretz to defend the region against the Thule]]. Peace with the [[Thule]] has perhaps seduced the soft-hearted, making them imagine that this state of affairs will last forever. Nothing lasts forever. In the end, even the mountains will fall. One day, the Thule armies will come, and when they do, they will likely come for [[Volodmartz#Suvretz\|Suvretz]] first.

	In the meantime, the threat from the vallorn is even more pressing. The forests of Suvretz stretch all the way over the border and into [[Otkodov#Sküld\|Sküld]], right to the heart of a vallorn. If the vallornhearts are linked~~, then at the moment~~, the first thing the people of Volodmartz ~~will~~ know about it is when an army of ravenous insects is stripping the flesh from their dying bodies. The best way to stop that would be to build a massive ~~citadel~~ in the region.		In the meantime, the threat from the vallorn is even more pressing. The forests of Suvretz stretch all the way over the border and into [[Otkodov#Sküld\|Sküld]], right to the heart of a vallorn. If the vallornhearts are linked, the first thing the people of Volodmartz may know about it is when an army of ravenous insects is stripping the flesh from their dying bodies. The best way to stop that would be to build a massive fortification in the region.

	The old plans for ''Irontooth Keep'' have been pulled out and dusted off. There's no reason that the ruins couldn't be built into a massive new ~~citadel~~, forcing anyone planning to attack Suvretz to think twice about their ambitions. The original costs for the project are out-of-date as time has moved on, but this plan for an upgraded ~~citadel~~ wouldn't cost any more than normal. The big advantage is that it could be done ''quickly''.		The old plans for ''Irontooth Keep'' have been pulled out and dusted off. There's no reason that the ruins couldn't be built into a massive new bastion, forcing anyone planning to attack Suvretz to think twice about their ambitions. The original costs for the project are out-of-date as time has moved on, but this plan for an upgraded fortification wouldn't cost any more than normal. The big advantage is that it could be done ''quickly''.

	The great ''Irontooth Keep'' would require 150 white granite and 30 weirwood to construct, with labour costs of 540 crowns. Under normal circumstances, it would take two years to finish, but the existence of the strong foundations and the assistance of the ''koboldi'' would each reduce that construction time by one season. If the same magics as were employed to speed the completion of [[Karsk#Aleksandra's_Watch\|Alexandra's Watch]] could be employed, [[Volodmartz]] could conceivably have a major ~~citadel~~ to rival the [[Casinea#The_Silent_Sentinel\|Silent Sentinel]] in [[Casinea]] or [[Reikos#Remember_Exile\|Remember Exile]] in [[Reikos]] in less than a year!		The great ''Irontooth Keep'' would require 150 white granite and 30 weirwood to construct, with labour costs of 540 crowns. Under normal circumstances, it would take two years to finish, but the existence of the strong foundations and the assistance of the ''koboldi'' would each reduce that construction time by one season. If the same magics as were employed to speed the completion of [[Karsk#Aleksandra's_Watch\|Alexandra's Watch]] could be employed, [[Volodmartz]] could conceivably have a major fortification to rival the [[Casinea#The_Silent_Sentinel\|Silent Sentinel]] in [[Casinea]] or [[Reikos#Remember_Exile\|Remember Exile]] in [[Reikos]] in less than a year!

			Following the Winter Solstice 383YE, the newly appointed [[Master of the Koboldi]] spoke with the civil service about the feasibility of undertaking the work to build a fortification here. There is no barrier to them doing so - they are explicitly allowed to [[Master_of_the_Koboldi#Commission_stone_construction\|announce that they will work]] on a [[fortification]], and that would allow them to create a new bastion. Indeed, the ''koboldi'' still remain enthusiastic about the opportunity to work on this massive fortress.

	Following the Winter Solstice 383YE, the newly appointed [[Master of the Koboldi]] spoke with the civil service about the feasibility of undertaking the work to build a fortification here. There is no barrier to them doing so - they are explicitly allowed to [[Master_of_the_Koboldi#Commission_stone_construction\|announce that they will work]] on a [[fortification]], and that would allow them to create a citadel. Indeed, the ''koboldi'' still remain enthusiastic about the opportunity to work on this massive fortress.
	===The Dark Nights of Winter===		===The Dark Nights of Winter===
	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">