Dusk approached with the swiftness of the wind, so the tribespeople ceased their labor and retreated to their longhouses. For supper there was the occasional bit of rabbit to be seen, but most ate fish freshly caught from the new boats. They cooked these meals over firepits in the center of the longhouses, though for a lack of other fuel they were burning sod, grass, and twigs.
Most of the little trees to be found nearby had already been felled, used to build the pier and fishing docks if not the longhouses. More lumber was needed for Dagshall to grow and the tribe to have ample firewood when winter inevitably came.
Fortunately, the Gods seemed to favor the Iceborn. There was a large forest nearby that would make a suitable spot to begin logging, and as fortune would have it, that forest was just upriver. The river would make transporting the lumber easy enough. They would just have to tie the logs together and float them downstream to the village.
So when dawn rose, Dag sent his lumberjacks to find a suitable place to set up a logging camp. It wouldn't have to be anything too complicated; the forest was close enough that they would just need a few simple huts to store tools and perhaps rest if they became snowed in or were unable to make it back to Dagshall before night fell.
Dag still hadn't heard from the men that had been sent out in search of goats, though he was not yet worried about their fates. Perhaps they would return to see their tribe already amassing a plentiful stockpile of fish and lumber.
Not sure if it's more C) Improve Infrastructure or F) Improve Resources, but the Iceborn are setting up a logging camp at the forest upriver.
They're also still waiting on those guys that were sent to look for goats or other livestock.
The potatoes harvest was quite good indeed and but the people of Antari could not live only off eating potatoes and so Amari Asto proceed to the next crop which would be cultivated in this new lands which would be the Quinoa a crop that was also very common in the lands of Amari Asto, this crop was also easy to cultivate and could be done on the coast and the mountain valleys, although it required a bit more work to get it cultivated but that would be worthy.
Again the cultivation of this new crop was under the supervision of Manco while Amari Asto planned their next step, thankfully for Manco there were a couple of other capable people that did their job because if not Manco would have to supervise everything or at least most things as Amari Asto didn't bother much with the minor scale of things as he saw the great picture, one of those persons was Tupaka a young imperial mason ,who like Manco was also part of the lower nobility , Tupaka advised Amari Asto to start searching for resources to improve the housing in this lands as it would be needed as to settle and prepare for harsher weathers, Amari Asto accepted to do it after most of the food sources were secured.
A) The production of food proved a greater quandary to the children than one might imagine such a fundamentally necessary function to be. Farmers and landowners existed in their ranks, but there was nothing resembling the labour force needed for large scale agriculture and the artisans could hardly be expected to swallow their pride and reduce themselves to being simple farmhands, even if it was temporary it could prove difficult. Theldaneth imagined that a system of work rotations and evenly distributed responsibilities might be a solution, but he decided that it was not a battle he wished to fight yet. For now he asked the farmers and landowners to begin work laying the groundwork of agriculture by the river, asking the ship's sailors to assist since on land they were good for little more than unskilled labour anyway.
As a more direct solution to the problem of food he gathered all the workers in things leather and hide. He asked them to organise hunting expeditions, to bolster their numbers he asked the young and energetic among the Children to join them, the thrill of the hunt would do their minds and bodies well. These hunts would provide materials for their crafts and food for the people. Somewhat cynically Theldaneth mused to himself that it might be for the better if the younger generation became accustomed to the sight of blood. In part he hopes that they may also choose a greater diversity of paths than their parents, because Artemon's domain alone is not enough to make the world.
As he tried to organise their small society, Theldaneth became increasingly aware of the limitations the lack of formal authority and organisation put on his ambitions. There was also the imminent problem of trying to organise a society that consisted primarily of middle class artisans, few of whom would likely be eager to demote themselves.
Lay the groundwork of agriculture/begin small scale agriculture, organise hunting
S’llk smiled the foundation for the Grand Temple had begun but advisors had forewarned after the foundation was completed it’d be difficult for work to continue especially without the tribe’s true potential not yet unlocked. S’llk gathered his advisors together to discuss the tribes issues and the next step for the coming year.
“While we all believe the temple sssssshould be conssssstructed asssss sssssoon asssss posssssible. We know it ssssimply can’t happen. Ssssso I propossssse we begin work on out lying farmsssssss to feed and grow our populace.” Ke’lll said who was the oldest of the Serpetists and had farmed for most of his life.
Vosk a larger lizardman who was in command of the elite honor guard stepped forward “Impossssssible we must begin building out army and sssssend out ssssscouting partysssss for fresh meat let them build while we hunt.”
S’llk nodded before contemplating the two choices after a few moments he gave his answer “While I believe the old wayssss of the Great Ssssserpent are wissssse, we traveled many years and came into contact with no one, it isssss sssssafer to ssssetup a farm land and grow our sssssstockpile rather then relying sssssouly on our huntersssssss. Ke’lll inform the people. I must return and mediate” The advisors nodded even Vosk who was upset obeyed.
Meanwhile S’llk returned to the large river and waited for further instructions from his master for he and his tribe.
A: Improve Food and setting up larger areas in outlying lands.
Lord Elaris turned his gaze to the soaring mountain above Cantivale. He imagined windmills softly lilting in the warm winds, churning the grains in flour for his people to make bread with. The river, which was deep and filled with perch and bass would need a docks, and maybe a bridge. But most importantly, his village needed protection. A palisades would have to be constructed, and a watchtower to warn of any intruders.
The food stockpiles are growing already. Lord Elaris could only feel the corner of his lips twitch in slight glee, but he knew he couldn't let his amusement show too much. He knew it would take time before they were stocked up for winter, and due to the fatigue of the long journey and the many construction projects his people had undertaken, it would take time to regain their strength. [Food level will settle at average on next turn.] The surrounding land hosted another challange, however. The Lothelonni were only starting to feel a bit defenseless on this new continent when lord Elaris commissioned a pallisade and a watchtower be constructed. Despite the builders' fatigue, they heartily agreed and set up the proper defenses in no time. [Construction completed instantly.] This in turn would help ensure a safety in the elves, if only slightly.
(Don't worry about post length, I quite enjoyed it anyway!)
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 92 men, 92 women, 24 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 20% of adult population. Food level: Below average (Improving) Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 4% -2% from food level +0% from morale = 2%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
As Dag contemplates his next move, he is hailed by one of his scouts that has brought good news. The explorers sent out has returned, and with them even managed to brought a few goats to start their herd off. It's not enough to establish a goat-herd just yet, but in the days or weeks to come the scouts will bring back more, and then it will be enough. [Goatherd established properly next turn.] However that was not the only news the scouts had. When exploring the slopes to the mountainchain to the west, some of the scouts had sworn they saw movement amongst the rocks. At first, the expedition leader hadn't believed them, but soon they all saw rocks falling clumsily from the hills, suspiciously loosened by something and sent skidding harmlessly down the cliffs. Was someone watching them from above? Someone clumsy? Or was this just the mountain goats playing tricks on them? [Point of interest marked on the map.]
Dag felt these news had to wait for his attention. He had more pressing matters first. Other scouts had reported the forest to the south was perfectly located next to the river, so that logging efforts would be perfect to set up upstreams. Indeed that was what Dag ordered be done, and indeed was it in the nick of time too. All the forestation in the direct vicinity of the settlement had been chopped for the construction of the longhouses and fishing boats. Without the loggingcamp, construction of ... Well, anything, would suffer. A group of loggers are sent up south to establish their camp, and soon the harvesting of lumber would enrich the settlement of Dagshall. [Logging camp fully operational next turn.]
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 117 men, 117 women, 36 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 60% of adult population. Food level: Average Resources: Lumber (Currently low. Improving.) Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% +0% from food level, +0% from morale = 5%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
Orcs thrive on the hunt, in war and on the open plains where Nagrub had settled his people. When proclaiming he would lead an expedition west with his warriors and scouts, his boyz cheered! In fact, they roared! Even the pigs seemed to join in, though that might just be due to being scared of the orcs going all nuts. Whatever the case, no orc could deny that morale was higher for it. [Morale boost! Your people operate more efficiently for a few more turns.] As soon as Nagrub left though, the ambitious head shaman Wurtag the Greenseer had a plan. He could build a mighty tent dedicated to the shamanism the orcs practised. Or perhaps it was more dedicated to himself, but either way, he wanted it adorned with spikes and ... Spikes! And probably more spikes! He wanted to make it his own little "private" fortress, and so gathered his builders (Nagrub's builders) and ordered the structure be done. Due to the high spirits of the orcs, they didn't really object to the idea. They kind of liked building spiky stuff, anyway. [Construction started on a great shamanism-tent-with-spikes. Will be completed next turn.] Only a few days after the expedition left though, a scout returned from the north. He said there are caves aplenty in the mountainchain, and he swore he even saw some holds in the cliff walls. During the night, he even double-swore he saw lights coming from some of the holes! There had to be something there, perhaps something to smash? Wurtag snorted, he liked clubbing things to death, but not without the strength of the tribe. He would wait until the return of his ... illustrous warlord.
To the west, Nagrub and his boyz travelled quickly due to their high morale. They were eager to find new things to take and other things to use their "choppas" on. They came upon the mighty mountain of the valley, and they were awed. At no point on the entire foot of the mountain did they find an easy way up. No caves, no slopes, no easily scaled walls, just cliff and rock and jagged stone. It would be climbable of course, but not without proper preparation and equipment... As if orcs needed those. It would have to wait though. An orc sniffed the air and looked at his warlord. "Boss!" he exclaims. "Boss, I smell something!" Nagrub snorted. He could feel it too. It didn't smell like wildlife. It smelled ... civilized. There! By the river! Something moved, fled their vision. They caught a climpse of a slender figure with bright hair and a cloak the color of the landscape scurry away down south. With a mighty roar, the orcs followed. [Your expedition is marked on the map as a flag with your color.] [You have come across the elves of Celebrimbor.] [Food level will settle on average next turn.]
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 118 men, 115 women, 34 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 60% of adult population. Food level: Below average (Improving) Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% -2% from food level, +1% from morale = 4%. Morale: Enthusiastic Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
The crops grew slowly, but for now the Maerinum peoples were confident in their ability so sustain themselves soon. Their availability to food was increasing, though they did note to their illustrous leader that the island was quite small and large-scale agriculture would be hard if their population grows too high. An experienced craftsman noted that there is lumber to be harvested, and thus boats could be constructed. The seas around them should be able to help sustain their people. But would it be seen done, what with all the other things piling up on the to-do list of the Maerinum? [Food level will settle at average next turn.] First, their current projects must be seen through, Maxim thought. A barracks for conscripts, organizing the businesses and infrastructure that would spring from the settlement eventually, organize a senate, and so on... There was much to be done. Luckily, the people of New Matem were crafty folk, and a makeshift barracks was put up fast. Under the guidance of Maxim's new military tactician, a few men already signed up to join the ranks of the military to protect their families and friends. [A small military is established. Training isn't very advanced yet but their morale are high.] The improvement of New Matem's infrastructure was easier said than done, however. While the builders were confident in their abilities, they simply lacked the manpower and resources to improve the entire settlement in any short time, what with all the other projects going on. Maxim would have to choose between what was more important. Set up an industry for lumber in the form of a logging camp at the nearby woods, or set up an industry for clay and stone?
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 116 men, 114 women, 35 children. Military: 10 Footmen. Militia able to be conscripted up to 30% of adult population. Food level: Below average (Improving) Resources: Pending: Lumber or Clay Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% -2% from food level, +0% from morale = 3%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
Now that sufficient lands had been cultivated and prepated and sown with the seed of potatoes, it was time to bring out the next batch of seed: the quinoa. If it would grow well here, Amari Asto couldn't tell, but then again he wasn't a farmer. If Manco said it could be done, it could be done. And so another source of harvest was secured for the Antari. [Food level will settle on average next turn.] During the night, suddenly shouts and commotion is heard. Amari Asto is woken from his dreamless sleep from the ruckus. When out of his tent, one of his advisors run up to him to state the obvious. Amari Asto already saw what had happened. "My liege! The storehouse has caught fire!" The people of the settlement worked tirelessly for several hours to keep the fire from spreading to nearby huts and dwellings, and they managed to keep it secure to the storehouse. However, the storehouse and what little reserves had been stored there were now ash. Amari Asto came upon the scene, unless he had been active in the efforts himself, and saw that his people were distraught. There wasn't much in the store and thus much wasn't lost, however it struck a blow to the spirits of the people if nothing else. Two militiamen came dragging another man before Amari Asto. Their faces were stern. "Liege, this criminal attempted to steal food from the stores and in his crime he set fire to the storehouse. He claims it was an accident." said one of the guardsmen. "Please, it was an accident! I-I only needed a bit of extra food for my family, my eldest son is only a few cycles old and he is sick! Please forgive me, I did not mean to knock over the torch! I swear on my life!" says the accused. He was on his knees, his face low and directed at the dirt before Amari Asto's feet. A terrible choice had to be made. Punish the man, to satisfy his people's dismay, or pardon the man for he was only attempting to save his son? Perhaps there was another way, a better way to settle this? And what of the storehouse? While it could be rebuilt, who would see to it to replace the supplies that were lost in the flames?
The pile of ash emits a thin pillar of smoke, stretching upwards into the stars. The sky was cloudless, but it was as if a low hum of moisture clung to the air. The smoke swirled ever upward, floating into the full moon in the sky. It looked as if they become one and the same up there, lost among the many stars.
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 114 men, 114 women, 34 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 30% of adult population. Food level: Below average (Improving) Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% -2% from food level, -1% from morale = 2%. Morale: Disgruntled (Due to recent events. May change depending on further action. Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
Vosk wasn't happy about his liege's decision, but he trusted in the great serpent and he trusted that his liege was indeed a prophet of his God. But it had always been the way of their people to keep to the way of the spear and shield, of fang and claw. Vosk's was a line of great warriors, and he planned to have it remain as such. Then again, even he understood the necessity of a reliable source of food. While the hunters continued to feed the people for now, the outlying lands proved to be a challange to farm. There was great earth to sow on, but it was full of rocks and hills. A simple scout named Lirsk came up with an idea. He wasn't much of a builder, but he had a sharp eye and proposed to the overseer of the masonry the concept of terrace farms. They had heard of the concept before, but never put it to practise. After a few failed attempts the masons managed to get the concept right, and Lirsk was complimented on his good idea. The overseer of the masons told of this story to S'llk himself, not taking much of the credit himself other than to make the concept actually work. [Infrastructure improved: terrace farming. Food level will settle on average next turn.] Construction of temple: 10% completion. You may choose to continue construction in hopes of finishing the temple sooner but it may take a toll on your morale.
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 115 men, 113 women, 33 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 50% of adult population. (Higher than average due to culture and race). Food level: Below average (Improving) Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% -2% from food level, +0% from morale = 3%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
Hunters and gatherers and foresters were now core part of Celebrimbor's foodsupplies while the farmlands took shape. The bountiful land didn't object much to the plows and tools of the elves, as they worked with great care but also great determination.
As Theldaneth had just finished delegating the next great tasks to his workforce, he turns around and finds that almost all of the elves sent out to gather materials or find resources have returned. Some of them have nothing material with them but rather information about the land, while others have with them pieces of amber from the woods to the west or peculiar-looking flowers from the lands around them. From this treasure-hunt of an expedition, the elves of Artemon have found that the riverbanks are bountiful, the river has plenty of fish, among the coastline and some parts of the river there are large deposits of clay, the forests to the west has a large variety of critters and birds and great trees whose sap can feed plenty of critters, but also turn into amber. It seems this forest is very, very old judging from the thick and unchallanged vegetation, the sheer thickness of the trees and the hum of wildlife emiting from it. Something that took Theldaneth's attention was a few glittery pebbles brought by a young elf with a dark-green cloak and white hair. His hands and face were dirtied from the adventure, and the pebbles glittered and shone in the sunlight. By Artemon... It's silver! The young elfling explains that he went as far up the river as he could, until the mighty mountain itself stopped him. The river came down from the mountain sometimes calmly, but sometimes through mighty falls, impossible to traverse. It is there, he says, on the banks of the farthest-most up the mountain he could travel, that he found the silver. It seems the mountain has bounties and riches in it.
The celebration is suddenly stopped short however, as a similarly-clad elf rushes into the crowd at full speed, shouting on the top of his lungs. "Theldaneth! Orcs! I saw Orcs to the north-east! I outran them quickly but I think they're headed this way, from upriver! They're coming from upriver, Theldaneth! Greenskinned brutes!" he exclaimed, as if there was no limit to how much air he could hold in a single breath. The elves exchange worried glances, and most look to Theldaneth for guidance. What will they do? How will they defend themselves?
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 91 men, 91 women, 24 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 20% of adult population. Food level: Below average (Improving). Resources: Currently prospecting. Yields next turn. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 4% -2% from food level, +0% from morale = 2%. Morale: Scared (No immediate penalty, however morale can continue to drop unless the situation is handled) Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
Good. They had a militia now, and they were taking in steady harvests. Old Matem had been made from stone and clay; white-washed villas with quant red roofs, and the environment here was perfect. The small fleet they had arrived on was enough to get to and from the mainland, and so building materials were the most pressing issue.
They had had a surveying team with them on the boats as a matter of fact, a stroke of luck that the owner of Haeitus Mines had fled from the war, along with various family and friends. Already, he had been recruited into the senate, and his men had proved invaluable in assisting the construction of a quarry.
The area had already been surveyed. There had been some minor excavation to find out the time of stone, and there had been a cheer when the results had come in. Clay, yes, but better than clay, dolomite and marble. The first for cheap constructions, the latter for the great ones.
And the first of tne great ones had already been started. Maxim watched as the scaffolding was erected in preparation for the marble. The forum, juet like the one in the old city. The grand basilica, the center of governance and law, banks... Maxim could see it all, but cor now they were waiting for the quarries to be finished.
- Maxim adds a mining expert to the senate - Initial prospecting shows dolomite and marble to be tne primary stone resource - Scaffolding is erected for the forum: the great center of any city. Currently being focused on are the basilica and market square
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- With the food situation finally safe, S’llk and others thought it best to continue work on the temple. However when they started to construct more then just the base they soon realised they didn’t have the tools nor the aesthetics to make it a worthy temple to the Great Serpant. As such whatever they started was quickly torn down and the councilors once again called a meeting to discuss how to solve this problem. Newly made head scout Lirsk joined them at the meeting to discuss his ideas.
S’llk stood and watch them debate about how to solve the problems. Some argued to hunt for an enemy and take their tools,food and whatever else they had. Others requested they begin a mine to dig for resources. Finally a vote was called and the miners won. Vosk once again upset still obeyed and S’llk even promised after the mine is successfully setup that he may lead the first team to try and find neighbors who they may leach off of.
A: Begin prospecting the mountains for stone,metal and other ores.
With a cheer from the tired but hopeful crowd the banner of House Brightflower was hoisted above the watchtower. Lord Elaris, surrounded by his family and close companions, accepted congratulations and a warm embrace from his beloved, Alima. How her almond shaped eyes shined in the bright sun of this new land, and as the Lord and Lady of Cantivale strode along the single rode of the village, they looked upon their growing village with a hopefulness and certainty of peace they had not felt in a long time.
It was nearing dark when the pair reached the river, already lanterns were being lit and the long shadow of the mountain eclipsed Cantivale.
"What next, my love?" asked Alima softly. Her golden curls catching the light of the moon and firelight of the village.
Elaris smiled. "A tower and a wall? What more would my lady have of a simple nobleman?"
A moment passed between them in silence.
"There is still much to do. We have many mouths to feed my Lord. Another birth just the other day." Alima placed her hand upon Lord Elaris' pale face. "We cannot fail them, my Lord. They have risked too much for that, come too far to unknown lands."
Lord Elaris nodded somberly. He looked to the river, saw how it bent softly downstream. "We know not what lies beyond this river. But we know where we come from, and know we cannot go back my love. No, this is our home now, and I will do everything in my power to preserve our way of life. Whatever it takes-my life if need be."
Alima nodded and placed her head upon her husbands breast. Twilight faded into darkness and the moon broke above the shadow of the mountain to bathe the river in milky white.
Explore (the river, as the Lothelonni landed on the Western shore, they will explore the easterly branch, towards Dagshall)
Praise flowed from the High Chieftain's mouth like water from the river. He witnessed the tribe's growing stores and was filled with pride. He offered his praise to the fishers, the hunters, the lumberjacks! Aye, and praise to the Gods for leaving such a bounty, even Father Frost for 'twas he who ultimately delivered them to this rich new homeland.
It was then that Gunnar approached the chieftain, leading two of the goats that he and some others had captured in the mountains. Dag began to praise Gunnar and his fellows, but the man cut him off.
"Dag, there is something else. We felt watched when we were in the mountains. A few men thought that they saw things moving on the clefts above, and sure enough, later on something disturbed the rocks and sent them rolling down."
There was utter silence from Dag and the other men around. In that tense moment everyone was still, and then there was an explosion of words and action.
"Cursed," proclaimed one elderly man, "that mountain be cursed!"
"What, are you afraid of a little stone rolling the mountain? You lot are mad," a more skeptical one offered.
Somewhere mixed within the outbursts there was uttered a single word, posed as a question: "Skraelings?"
Once again they all froze and considered that daunting possibility. Skraelings were mythical creatures mentioned in the legends of the tribe, creatures that could walk, talk, and think like men, and yet were something other than men. They came in various shapes and sizes and demeanor, but in the tales an encounter with skraelings ended with blood, more often than not. There had been no skraelings on the Fatherland, simply tribes of other men. Even on the other desolate islands they had passed in their flight from the Fatherland, they had encountered no skraelings. But the possibility was real, nonetheless. Those islands had been desolate, but this was a green and fertile land. It made sense that there would be some sort of skraelings native to the land. But would they be numerous? Hostile? A threat to the Iceborn?
All of those questions flashed through Dag's mind but there were no answers. Nonetheless, he was on edge. After some time, he finally spoke in a low voice, "Gather more men. Send them to the mountains in large groups. Have them explore. Prospect the area for ores, while you are at it, but always be on the watch for skraelings."
-The Iceborn still await the return of some people to complete the herd of goats
-The strange encounters reported by the scouts and hunters have aroused suspicion among the Iceborn. They suspect that 'skraelings' might be present.
-Dag sends more men out to the mountains, this time in larger groups. They are to prospect for ores and look for signs of skraelings.
"Dwarves. Born of stone, born of ore. Yet it is believed that some are born of dirt, and treated as such. Slaves, this is just one example, a core example, of the 'professions' that these dwarves... that we are used for. Yet no matter the hardships we have faced, my son, we continue to stand strong, tough as steel, sharp as bronze, hopeful as gold. There will come a day where you will understand these words, and all else that I've told you..." "Arngir! Arngir!! Wake up!"
Arngir's eyes shot open, and he hurriedly got up, only momentarily losing balance from the rocking of the ship. The only ship, and most worn down vessel, of what was left of the already meager fleet. All that was left now was a single ship and several large boats, most of which were fishing vessels.
One of the watchmen beckoned him over and pointed toward the horizon, "Sir, see there? Land, we have finally come upon land!" Arngir peered in the distance, and sure enough he could see a mountained island ahead, and the outline of a much larger land, perhaps a whoel continent, beyond it. But what caught his eye the most, was the great shape of a mountain so high that couldn't tell if just its peak was above the clouds that surrounded it.
His eyes glimmered.
A new land, a new hope, a new beginning.
"Wake everyone on all the ships, full alert and effort, we will reach the shore as soon as possible..."
Clan Oreborn reached the southern mouth of a, from what they could discern, western flowing river. The ship could go no further, so its supplies were transferred to the other boats and they salvaged what they could of the battered vessel before sinking the remains. The decision was made to move inland towards what the clan was calling the World Mount, and so they took the remaining boats upriver, with a party on land as there wasn't quite enough room.
Eventually, they reached the western base of the mountain. Here. It is here that they would make their new home. And they wasted no time in unloading the supplies and salvaging more of the boats to make sturdy yet temporary shelter.
After great struggle, Clan Oreborn leaves their old lands and lives as 'filth'. Reaching the new continent and settling at the western base of the giant mountain on the east of the continent, south of and next to the westward river.
The sudden shift in fortunes left Theldaneth almost in shock. In an instant he went from imagining the splendour this newfound wealth could create, to having to fear for their very survival. At first he considered escape, but on land they would likely not survive being pursued by the orcs and organising escape over the sea was unreasonable with their current means. Not to mention that they might run into something even worse. They would need to stand proud, as high elves ought, and defend their new home.
But Theldaneth was not a military elf and was filled with doubts on how to tackle the issue. He wasn't even sure if he was to think in terms of hours or days in preparing their defences. One thing was clear to him, he was the most capable leader among them and he would lead them in the trying times to come. He gathered the people of Celebrimbor and made his case that they needed a formal leader with vested authority in the days ahead. The people rightly agreed, but Theldaneth's following proposal that he be made Viceroy caused controversy. It meant bypassing ritual and circumventing the king's power, some would even say it was tantamount to usurping his power, as well as effectively raising Theldaneth above them to a title of nobility. After some deliberation it was decided he would take on the powers and uncontroversial title of 'executor' until the crisis was over, putting him in charge of Celebrimbor for now.
H) The executor's first move was to ask for volunteers for a standing military force. Warriors who would dedicate their time to the defence of their people. Simnor, captain of the ship, was to be their commander until further notice. Their first task a vital one, the gathering of information. They would seek out the orcish force and assess their position, strength and movement.
As for the rest of the people, they would need to prepare themselves to be drafted for the sacred duty of defending their land. What weapons they had were to be stockpiled and prepared for easy access in case of mobilisation.
Resolving the problem of the storehouse: Make the man a servant or yanacona of the Amari Asto and he will work in the fields more than others , if he performs well he will be given his previous rank in society as citizen. His family is to be untouched and Manco will designate someone to check and treat the man's son.
After that, Amari Asto discussed with Manco about the resources available to them and most would be consumed sooner than later , so Manco advised to send people to explore the land, in search for wood , stone and copper, especially stone, since in the continent in which Manco lived there were few forests and stone tools had been dominant until the invention of iron and steel. He sent two groups one to the mountains composed of 5 men and other to the forest composed of three men.
With that done it would only be matter of time if the people of Antari would be lucky enough to have resources to start working on new tools and improve their quality of life.
The Orcs had followed the stench of elf along the river for well over an hour, but eventually the smell faded and the warband was left without a direction. Standing in an open clearing not far from the eastern bank of the river, Nagrub roared his boyz to attention.
"Boyz! We'z makin' camp. If those elf boyz are usin' the river then dat means they ain't far. But I'm not's walkin' into a trap, and where there'z one elf boy there's a whole lot of the gits. I want some boyz out scoutin' ahead, smell for that magickz blood. The rest of you gits get to work settin' up camp. We start huntin' at dawn."
To make his point clear, the warlord gave a mighty stomp and slammed his choppa into the earth. With a loud thud the crude iron blade cut the ground below it and the boyz surrounding the Warlord scrambled back in anticipation of Nagrub's wrath. Shortly afterward, the boyz went right to work establishing a base camp and 'organizing' scouting parties into the woodlands around them. However, how long they could search was a mystery, as the sun was already beginning to set into the west... One thing was for certain though, come sunrise, Nagrub would begin the orcish tradition of a war hunt, and no man, beast, or elf would be safe from the bloody thirsty boyz.
G) Prospect the Land
At first Wurtag had simply written, whatever that word meant, off his fellow orc's statements of lights in the east. Orcs were dumb, especially those who did not see or hear the will of the orcish gods of war. However, in the early evening one night Wurtag saw them for himself... Far off in the distance, just within the sight of his beady red eyes... Light... Fire. Could it be fellow orcs? Or perhaps some of those short gits with the big beards, or maybe the tasty humies that used to run their caravans in the far south. Regardless, one thing was certain, there was life.
This realization brought more questions than answers for the Greenseer, and he began to think. If there was resources and a food source upon those great peaks... What of the very hill the boyz sat on? Stepping from his tent and ordering his apprentices to bang upon the drum of the rock, Wurtag demanded the attention of Iron Rock's folk. Raising his 'magick stik' he spoke to his fellow greenskins of an idea placed in his mind by none other than Grobsnar, the God of 'Finkin an' Tinkerin', and the orcish god told him of shiny things right below their very feet. These shiny things could be used to forge new buildings, better choppas, and make very shiny spikes. Of course, in the back of his rather small orcish brain the Shaman couldn't help but envision himself embroiled in robes and plate of 'shiny' that would demand the respect and attention of his greenskin tribesmen...
- Nagrub instructs his boys to prepare a camp in a clearing and begin scouting parties, at sunrise a hunt would begin with Nagrub leading to find the 'elf boyz'.
- Wurtag the Greenseer 'has a vision' of shiny things under the grounds of Iron Rock and calls upon his tribesmen to begin digging and scouring their surroundings in the name of the tribe and the orc god Grobsnar.
A small expeditionary force was sent down the river once more, this time breaking off to explore the eastern fork and the banks upon it. Quite soon, the party realized that their lake near Cantivale could not possibly be responsible for this massive flow over water all by itself. It was a huge lake, yes, but these rivers were large and flowed rapidly. Water from the mountains and the lakes couldn't possibly be enough to be the cause of all this, could it? Wait... What was that, over by those trees? Ranger Celamon, a recently promoted scout and huntsman quickly hissed at his fellow expeditionaries to lower themselves onto the ground. He alone had seen clearly what was hiding in the small patch of forestation. A large humanoid beast, hairless upon it's body but with a great beard hanging from it's chin. It had a single eye in it's forehead, and it must have towered at over twelve feet tall if it stood upright, Celamon reckoned. It was crouched, hunched over a dead, large hairy bull. He wasn't simply eating it though, he was butchering it. The large brute seemed civilized to an extent, at least, despite being covered in nothing but fur. His muscles bulged almost unnaturally as he flexed his arms, cutting the bull's stomach open and emptying intestines. Celamon had heard of these creatures before, from a scholar back home. But which of the mythical creatures he had heard of was it? An ogre? A giant? A behemoth? Something else entirely? More importantly: was it friend or foe? Was it alone?
The great brute remained unaware of the elves' pressence as he continued to work. His body was covered in furs to protect him from the chill in the air, but his arms and legs were exposed. What would the expedition do? [Expedition location marked on the map.]
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 95 men, 95 women, 26 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 30% of adult population. Food level: Average Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 4% +0% from food level, +0% from morale = 4%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
First order of business of the day, Dag hears word that the goatherd is growing steadily. Thanks to recent efforts, they now had another strong source of food that would further increase their stockpile in the days to come. Indeed, in terms of food the Iceborn seemed very well off.
Skraelings, however, was another matter. In response, Dag ordered several groups be sent into the western mountains to explore them and search for ore. It was only a matter of time after all, some of them thought, that they would need to find iron to craft new tools with. Or perhaps weapons...
Lumberharvesting operations had now been properly setup down south, and the settlement of Dagshall could now also expand it's housing without worry if need be. Lumber would also help in creation of new tools or whatever items may be needed that could be crafted with it. [Lumbercamp marked on the map south of Dagshall.]
It didn't take long for the expedition(s) to find what they were looking for, or perhaps what they feared to find. Just moments after finding actual iron-ore on one of the cliff-faces, once again disturbed rocks roll harmlessly down the hills. This time, the Iceborn were ready and jumped at the event. They could hear something skitter away from them among the rocks, but they couldn't see it. They were so very close that they could still see the dust of it's footsteps as they were close on it's heels. Then, there it was, suddenly, driven into a dead end. A small creature, black as night, with yellow eyes, slitted with dark pupils. It looked angry, or perhaps scared. It wore a simple loincloth, had no other possessions or clothes. It was a small, pitiful creature at the sight of it. Perhaps four feet tall, hunchbacked, pointy-eared, yellow-teethed. It hissed at the Iceborn as they surrounded it, drove it deeper into it's escapeless corner. While two men were sent back to Dagshall to report the findings of Iron Ore at the mountains, they would also bring back news of the black creature. The shadows conceiled it, but it's eyes seemed to glow in the dark. What was it? A skraeling? Something else?
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 122 men, 122 women, 39 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 60% of adult population. Food level: Average Resources: Lumber Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% +0% from food level, +0% from morale = 5%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
Wurtag was pleased with the construction of his great spiky tent, but less so pleased with the realization that there was an unknown neighbour to their east. A scout had made a crude drawing in the dirt (much to the delight of the other shamanz, but less so to the delight of the other orkz), that marked about where he thought the mysterious lights originated from. Wurtag had seen them for himself now, and so there was no doubt in his mind that Iron Rock had to be ready for whatever might come out of the mountains. The best way to prepare for defense was to prepare for offense. Or rather, in an orc's mind these two word are indeed blended together into the word "war". As such, massive prospecting efforts are launched into the very soil of Iron Rock, to seek riches and minerals from underneath their very feet to see if "Iron" Rock lives up to it's name. [Prospect results next turn.] Meanwhile, quite far away from Iron Rock, Nagrub the warlord orders his orcs to establish camp, and to find these snivelin' elves wherever they might be hiding! They set themselves up on the eastern side of the river, waiting for the forage- and scoutparties to return. The very next morning, one of the scouts return with an arrow in his shoulder. He doesn't seem to mind it but his arm is hanging quite limp. "Boss!!" he exclaims with pride, as if not even having realized his shoulder's state. "I found 'em! They ain't far, they're by th' coast down south! They dug in deep though, me finks they's be ready for us!" As another orc comes poking at his shoulder, the scout finally realizes his injury and promptly rips the arrow out, grunts in pain, and falls flat on the ground either in death or unconcious. What a strange way to go, some orcs think as they haul his body off to another tent to see if he's dead or not. [One orc scout die from an appearant arrow to the shoulder. The cause is unclear, perhaps bloodloss or simple exhaustion?]
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 124 men, 122 women(?), 36 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 60% of adult population. Food level: Average Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% +0% from food level, +1% from morale = 6%. Morale: Enthusiastic (Bonus for 3 more turns.) Foreign relations: - Children of Artemon: Hostile
The senate had decided, lumber would have to wait in favor of the more desirable resource of clay and stone in the form of dolomite and marble. While the marble wasn't yet found in large enough quantities to be used for anything large-scale, it could be used for decorative and artistry purposes rather than building for now. Nevertheless, the new resource of stone and clay would certainly prove important in the infrastructure of the settlement.
With their newly-found resources, the center of the settlement was subject to a big project of improvement. Maxim envisioned a grand basilica, the center and heart of New Matem. It was to be a shining pearl on the island and the new nation! The senate seemed to agree, but while the citizenry seemed to approve of their leaders a few voices were raised to the lack of common material such as lumber or fish. Perhaps they were just being spoiled, or perhaps they had a point. Maxim and the senate would decide.
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 121 men, 119 women, 38 children. Military: 10 Footmen. - Militia able to be conscripted up to 30% of adult population. Food level: Average Resources: Clay, Stone, Marble (small quantities) Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% +0% from food level +0% from morale = 5%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
The supposed arsonist almost cries in relief and thankfulness as the Amari Asto delivers his verdict. The man is given relative mercy by becoming a servant with a chance to restore his rank in society, his family remains untouched and his son will even be treated by order of his liege. Later that evening, he seeks Amari Asto out. "My liege. My name is Zalam, and I am greatly indebted to you. I shall work tirelessly until you deem my punishment sufficient. Please accept my deepest regrets and apologies for what happened to the food storage, I did not think to trouble you with my family's hardships directly. I know now that you are truly a wise and strong leader, and I should have asked for your help from the very start. My life is yours and my services are yours, beyond that of my sentence. The man you sent to treat my son was able to cure him, and for that, even when my rank in society is restored, I shall pledge myself to you." And with that, the man disappears into his own far away from the Amari Asto's. In the morning he will wake up early and work tirelessly to repay his debt to his people. Amari Asto is astounded with the man's resolve and commitment, but some other citizens have expressed their dismay at the man's merciful sentence. He had burned their foodstores to the ground and in their opinions, he should be exiled for such foolishness or be made to repay every single plank and piece of food lost. The pile of ash and rubble remains untouched, for now.
The next morning, Amari Asto orders his prospectors to journey out into the surrounding land and gather resources or mark down potential sources of said resources on a map and return to him. Due to the settlement's close proximity to both mountains and forests, Right from day one the prospectors suggest setting up either a lumber camp in the nearby forest or start a mining operation into the mountains in search for minerals. A quarry for stone would also be an alternative, but the prospectors suggest leaving that for later in favor of minerals or lumber. A scout returns one day from the west. He hadn't been gone long, and he hadn't gone very far, but he felt obliged to return quickly to report that he had observed strange, lizard-like creatures in the mountains to the west. He had found a pass through the mountains, and when exploring said pass he saw the lizardmen skulking about, appearantly also scouting through the pass. He says he doesn't think they saw him, but he couldn't be sure as he had only seen one or two. There could be more of them that he hadn't spotted, after all. They also seemed very... Savage. Dangerous. Sharp claws and fangs. [Further prospecting results next turn.] [You have come across the lizardmen. But who are they?]
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 119 men, 118 women, 36 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 30% of adult population. Food level: Average Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% +0% from food level, -1% from morale = 4%. Morale: Disgruntled (1 more turn of disgruntled.) Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
Lirsk was ambitious and shrewd, but also a bit ... green, so to speak. He had noticed Vosk's displeasure at the High Priest's way of handling things, and despite the promise made to Vosk, Lirsk started to doubt. He came to Vosk late one evening to talk to him of military affairs, using the excuse that he wanted to hear from Vosk's great knowledge and experience to become a better First Scout. For hours they talked, and finally Lirsk felt he had gained Vosk's trust. He finally executed his plan. "We should do as you say, Vosk." says Lirsk. "We should set out and find foes to subjugate and conquer. Who needs to craft tools when we can claim what we need from the lesser beings of this land? My scouts say they found a pass in the mountains to the east, I'm sure it leads somewhere." But would Vosk agree or would he stay faithful to his liege and High Priest?
Meanwhile, the laborers and prospectors hadn't been idle. The very same scouts that had informed Lirsk of the pass to the east had also aided in the prospecting of the mountain for resources. Indeed they had found stone that they could quarry, and some copper ore had been evident once venture further into the mountains had occured, yet iron seemed to elude them. Though they had spotted large natural caves further up the cliffs, perhaps iron was to be found in there? Alternatively, should the already found resources of copper and stone be mined first, before seeking the iron? Construction of temple: 15% completion. You may choose to continue construction in hopes of finishing the temple sooner but it may take a toll on your morale.
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 120 men, 118 women, 36 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 50% of adult population. (Higher than average due to culture and race). Food level: Average Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% 0% from food level,+0% from morale = 5%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
No shortage of elves volunteer to defend themselves from the coming enemies, but the people of Celebrimbor are civilians, not fighters. While every able-bodied young elf or older elf or anything inbetween arm themselves with what would pass as weapons, it is clear to Theldaneth that only a handful of them would actually be effective warriors. They'd have to beat the orcs through cunning and tact rather than force, as if that wasn't obvious already. The elven scouts were able to stay mostly undetected when skulking the land around them, but there was little vegetation or terrain to hide behind due to the flatness of the land. The scouts brought the news: the orcs had set up camp just a day's travel by foot away on the other side of the river, further up. Their numbers were estimated to be up to 50 brutes, against the elves' 35 militia and 7 elves-at-arms. The orcs and elves almost completely opposited one another. The elves had organization, while the orcs had "training". The orcs had the numbers, while the elves had the tactical advantage of being the defender. The orcs had brawn, while the elves had brain. This would be a very close battle, when the orcs arrive. Theldaneth prayed to his Gods. Artemon guide us...
After much debate with the rest of his people, Theldaneth is granted the temporary title of executor to guide the elves through this hardship. Suddenly, a scout returns. It was the same elf that had brought the first glimps of silver to Celebrimbor. He was still dirtied and tired, and two arrows were missing from his quiver. Theldaneth could recall this young elf's name was Falnor. "Theldaneth, I caught an orc scout trying to sneak up onto camp and count our numbers. I was unable to kill him, but I think I scared him off before he had finished counting... If orcs can count." said Falnor. It was obvious on his expression, however stained with mud it was, that he was ashamed of his failure but not yet broken of spirit.
After the encounter with Falnor, Theldaneth was suddenly greeted by several more of his people who had taken up arms to defend themselves. He recognized them as being part of those who were at first thought not to be able to fight. "Theldaneth. This new life we have made for ourselves, it seems, will be hard-fought to keep. While some of us are old or too young to fight, or simply lack the skill, we choose to take up arms none-the-less. We must all stand against whoever seeks to drive us away, if we are to earn our new life. For Artemon, and Celebrimbor!" Another 20 militia, although not initially part of the original draft, have joined Theldaneth's defensive force. They now had the numbers, but he knew these reinforcements were simple commoners with tools for weapons. How well they would fare in battle, he did not know, but it was certain that they were to be less effective than the orcs.
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 94 men, 94 women, 26 children. Military: 7 Elf-at-Arms. Militia able to be conscripted up to 20% of adult population. Food level: Average Resources: Currently prospecting. Yields next turn. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 4% +0% from food level, +0% from morale = 4%. Morale: Scared (No immediate penalty, however morale can continue to drop unless the situation is handled) Foreign relations: - Bonesnapper Tribe: Hostile
As you arrive later than everyone else, you will be given several choices at once, and have a slightly higher starting population.
You are stoic, strong dwarves of proud heritage and ingenuity. All dwarves have their own culture and story of how they came to be of this world, but everywhere you go, any dwarven people would have a similar idea about the Founding Fathers, the first seven dwarven kings said to have been the very first of the race and who each came to command great wealthy kingdoms. Today, they are gone, but their bloodlines are said to continue in the dwarven kings of each clan breed. Firstnames differ from each dwarven culture, but the lastnames remain the same. The Dwarves of the Clan Oreborn are the descendants and heir to the ancient heritage of the... A) Whitebeards - Great dual-wield warriors, adept at slaying different monsters such as trolls and ogres. B) Ironbeards - The greatest smiths in the lands, capable of crafting anything. Are very sturdy built and withstands quite a punch. C) Goldbeards - Excavators, adventurers, explorers and miners. The goldbeards are very good at scouting and discovering locations, or spy on their enemies. D) Blackbeards - Great twohander warriors, adept at wielding giant weapons into battle, and are also the best siege engineers around. E) Redbeards - Great dwarven magicians, sorcerers and runemasters, adept at controlling magic and the elements. F) Brownbeards - The strongest builders and masons the world has seen, the brownbeards are capable of constructing mighty fortresses that are almost impossible to penetrate. G) Longbeards - Common name for a clan which has a mix of all kind of dwarven beards. Is average at everything, but cannot achieve quite the height as the more specific breeds.
As Clan Oreborn arrive on the continent, they set up their encampment upon the banks of a river and near the coast. Their view upon life is bright now that they may start over, create a new life for themselves. What will be the first actions of this mighty people? What shall they name their new home?
A) Improve food B) Improve military technology C) Improve infrastructure D) Improve culture E) Explore F) Improve resources/technology G) Prospect the land H) Expand military I) Take diplomatic action X) Other
Population: 115 men, 113 women, 32 children. Military: No standing military. Militia able to be conscripted up to 30% of adult population. Food level: Low Resources: Requires prospection and industry. Wealth: Nonexistant Trade: Nonexistant Growth: Base: 5% -3% from food level, +0% from morale = 2%. Morale: Indifferent Foreign relations: You do not know any other civilizations.
The people wanted fish did they? Well, thought Maxim, I can kill two birds with one stone here. They still knew very little about the continent they had settled next to, and by sending out fishing parties not only would they increase their food supplies, but they would be able to see if the land was as truly underpopulated as they initially thought. The most likely place for any settlements would be south, but before they could start, they would need boats.
The great vessels that had carried them all the way from their homeland were still beached up next to the makeshift harbour that had been constructed, and that was cut, sawed and measured wood, all of it thick and sturdy. Why chop trees down when all you really needed was to use what you already had? Men were scampering over the wrecks already, carefully removing planks.
By the time the sailing season had started once more, there had been some progress done. The sheer size of the creations that they had arrived on meant that there was plenty of wood for what they needed to make. A few of the smaller fishing tugs had been constructed, and crude sails also, and work had been done on a war galley. Nothing large, just a simple two-story boat with room for both rowers and a small area for supplies and sleep, essential for any major exploring they so wished.
As for now, there had been some exploration with the fishing boats. Men would report back interesting coastal features and anything they could see when they beached their ships for the occasional break from sea that they needed, and so far the coastline was slowly revealing itself. Perhaps they would need a cartographer or another surveyor on the senate, but for now the one mining expert they had would have to do.
They would still need sailors, and potentially more soldiers, some skirmishers would be important should they need to do any searching before an engagement. Standardised armour and weaponry, as essential as it was, would still be a great distance away unfortunately, but that wasn't really pertinent to the matter at hand.
There had been a small amount of work going on at home as well. Whilst most of the new focus on food had been from the sea, a small amount had been done on land for more of the... Luxuries. The first seeds of a vinyard had been planted on a hill across from them; and whilst it would be a long time before they could have the refined tastes that they had once enjoyed, Maxim was looking forward to the first vintage.
Otherwise, everything had essentially been ticking along fairly normally. The quarry had been widened slightly, the clay coming out being a small amount, but enough for the first tents to have been pulled down, bricks being laid. The dolomite had been useful in the building he was currently standing in, the stone being piled up to make this new centre of government. It was no basilica, but it would do for now.
- Old ships scrapped, small amount of fishing tugs constructed and work on a bireme has started. - Exploration south and north along the coast by fishermen. - Minor work done to the quarry - Vineyard planted - Crude government building established
When the two scouts returned to Dagshall, the chieftain was quick to meet with them. The words poured of of their mouths like a stream poured over a waterfall, but Dag listened closely. They had found iron, and they had indeed captured something that might be a skraeling. The thing seemed small and weak, not nearly so dangerous as the skraelings of myth, and it also did not speak like skraelings did in the stories. But perhaps it had simply not wanted to speak, or perhaps it spoke in words that the Iceborn could not understand. They might have been tempted to think of it as some sort of mere animal were it not for the loincloth that it wore.
The two men did not know seeing as they had left almost immediately after the creature had been captured, but in the meantime those other men in the mountains would have already begun questioning the thing. Much depended upon whether that thing was a lone hermit or if there were more of it, and whether it was hostile or could perhaps be reasoned with. The discovery of iron in those cliffs meant that the Iceborn would establish a mine. They had brought weapons and tools with them from the Fatherland, of course, but eventually they would need to make replacements. And to do that they needed good steel. Dag was more than willing to attack and enslave a whole tribe of skraelings if that would be what it took to secure the iron in those mountains. But perhaps that would not prove necessary.
Before more word concerning the skraeling' had even reached Dagshall, the high chieftain had already sent men to begin construction of a mine. Along with their tools they brought weapons in the form of axes and bows, in case the encounter with that skraeling escalated to a violent conflict of some sorts.
The milk and meat from the goatherd was a welcome addition to the tribe's foodstores, but for some men it was still not enough. Sverker was a warrior that could appreciate a fine cut of meat, but he still longed for the fire that ale and mead roused in his stomach. Unfortunately they had no barley or grains with which to brew ale, but perhaps mead would be another story.
When the lumberjacks had returned to Dagshall a few days prior, half had been covered in red stings. At first Sverker had joined with the others in laughing at the unfortunate men that had felled a tree with a bee's nest in it and angered the hive. Later he realized that if there were bees in that forest, there was a potential source of honey. And honey was what that magical drink called mead!
So with their craving for mead serving as motivation enough, Sverker and some of his friends wrapped furs about themselves to cover every inch of skin that they could, then made for the lumber camp and the nearby forest. Using torches, they planned to smoke out a few beehives to sedate the wretched insects, then carry the nests closer to Dagshall. Then they could begin beekeeping and hopefully set up a meadery!
-Construction of a mine begins in those cliffs where the Iceborn discovered iron. -The strange thing that they captured in the mountains is being held prisoner while they try to interrogate it. -After the lumberjacks complain of an encounter with honeybees, a warrior named Sverker and some of his old drinking buddies try to get some of those wild bees so that they can start beekeeping and make a meadery. Because they're alcoholics and miss being drunk.
An expedition led by Ranger Celamon Jeroomi, 12th son of Lord Pella Jeroomi, Eastern Branch of the River Cantivale
For several days a dozen rangers led by Celamon tread a wary path along the eastern branch of the river Cantivale. Armed with bows, spears and the hunting sword of the Brightflower clan, Celamon took care with his rangers lives and pressed on at a wary pace.
The rocky banks of the river were soon overgrown with thick foliage and tall, softly swaying poplars, birch and willows. Celamon left two rangers to guard the high-keeled boats several miles back, but continued the expedition on foot, albeit at a slower pace. As the sun disappeared and the shadows of twilight engulfed the rangers, Celamon spotted a clearing and a hulking form within it.
"Hold rangers!" he hissed at the sight before him. A massive creature, bearded and fierce was methodically butchering a great beast-a bull. For a moment, Celamon watched slack-jawed at the sight of the creature-which was easily thrice the size of himself. A mixture of fear and awe took hold of the head ranger and for a fleeting moment he knew not what to do.
As the beast drew a long blade across the bulls corpse, Celamon ordered a swift retreat to regroup. Taking shelter behind some large boulders, and well away from the monster in the clearing, Celamon delivered his orders:
Turning to his lieutenant, a swift elf named Ella, he said, "Take eight men and return to Lord Brightflower, tell him of our encounter. Kato and I will attempt to track the beast, and see if their are others, or perhaps where it lives. If we do not return in a few days, expect the worst. A safe journey upon you sister." Ella nodded without a word and her and her cadre disappeared into the woods.
Celamon and Kato were left staring at one another. Kato was a few years Celamons senior, a fine and able ranger, but of little social standing in the clan. "Ready Kato?" asked Celamon. Kato nodded and the two set about their work.
At Cantivale, Lord Brightflower awaited the return of his expedition, and when it returned with Ella in command Elaris feared the worst. Ella told him of their encounter with the beast in the forest, and Celamons intentions. Elaris thanked Ella for her service and pondered his next action. Consulting with his rangers, they decided that a standing militia would have to be conscripted. The fate of Celamon and Kato was yet to be known.
While it would be safe to say that they had decsendants from the bloodlines of a few of the Founding Fathers, they were all slaves to other dwarves where they came from. The vast majority, however, are of the bloodline of the best builders in the known world, the brownbeards, the line most capable of defending its land with inpenetrable defenses, and building shelter that would stand for centuries. The remainder were only of Ironbeards and Goldbeards, though they were never able to to make use of such heritage, and it would be some time before they would truly come into their own.
A) Improve Food
Though the clan had some temporary shelter now, the most important task very quickly became apparent. Their food stores had gotten low from their journey, and they needed to begin farming and gathering supplies before hunger made itself known. Arngir and a few other prominent dwarves got met and quickly came to a decision.
The first tasks given out were to construct a small pier and begin fishing in the river, while small groups searched the nearby area for any natural foods to forage and bring back to the settlement. Soon, they would make farmland to have a more stable source of food.
Hopefully, the foragers would find safe berries and other such edibles, as well as spot any animals to hunt.
Most of Clan Oreborn are proud to be of the Brownbeard bloodline, making up a little over 9/10 of their population.
The clan works together to begin fishing from the river, including the building of a small pier, while others search for other resources in the flora and grass nearby.
The strange sight of the lizardmen alarmed Manco , who knew because of his knowledge of history that when there are two groups relatively nearby (as they would be to met so soon after the landing of the Antari) there is either a cold peace or war and the people of Antari better be readied now to deal with the problems that will come ahead than not be prepared at all , all of this while Amari Asto walked the Pachacamac with little trouble, not thinking about the many variables that meeting new people would be, for that matter Amari Asto felt that they would be great trade partners just like the empire of his father and one smaller nation neighbouring it, though it remained to be seen who would be the smaller nation and the empire.
Under these conditions days passed with Manco troubling himself and Amari Asto just thinking about the wonders that his empire would be, but finally Manco was able to convince Amari Asto to improve the defenses of Pachacamac and what better way than to give better weapons to the people instead of their own fists, the weapon is question was the spear, a rather traditional weapon for the people of Antari as it had been the weapons that legendary carried to battle for many generations.
It was no trouble making these and equipping them to the people as all that was needed were stones and wood, some that was rather nearby and the other two or so Manco hoped for.
