[IC] Colonial Powers NRP

[Winston Smith]

The People of Aznavor were no strangers to winter.Heavy snowfall,frozen lakes and scare hunting was a blight that affected the land yearly so the people were prepared for the worst.However, this winter things were especially bad and the mountain passes of the east became uncross able stranding hundreds of Dontian citizens in their poverty stricken nation. Stories of peasants dying,huddled in their homes whilst government officials feasted in their palaces made their way into Aznavor over the snowed-up passes. The terrible winter would only have compounded the effects of the harsh economic climate.Rumours of bread riots and populist grumblings in Nacer were not uncommon and the Aznavori could only hope this would mean and end to the regime in place. In Aznavor royal feasts were downsized throughout this winter leftovers were shared with the population, the poorest and the destitute were taken in by the church and given board bedding in exchange for work. As it did every year winter would come to pass eventually and the North sea would become practical again.

---

In Aznavor's Aventian colony the situation was slightly better,the climate was more tropical than temperate and the population was thriving. a second settlement emerged to the North of Newport with the northern mountain ranges attracting the unemployed from all around in fact several of former Dontian refugees now found themselves working in Mountaingate's deep mines. As ships and men sailed west to the new world cargoes of minerals and timber began to be shipped back east. Explorers were being sent further and further out,instructed to stay well clear of the Empires' lands to discover the resources and new sources of wealth that were sure to exist in the New World.Regardless of winter it could be said that Aznavos colony was thriving. And then courtier Ga Yao from the Empire of Khan arrived bringing news of his masters' wishes. This message had followed the discovery of the Khan empire by Aznavors' own scouts and now its seemed that Aznavors' own curiosity had come back to bite it. In the weeks between the arrival of the Empire's emissary and the dispatching of a response from the capital large Khan formations were seen parading outside Newport and Mountaingate's walls. Those who inhabited these towns were ever on high alert and all proceeded with their daily duties with great caution, and began carrying muskets around with them.New trenches were dug, food was stockpiled and cannons were taken off ships and added to the town walls in case of a attack by the Empire of Khan for few people truly expected the proud King of Aznavor would accept to become a vassal of the Khan Empire.

A few weeks after Ga Yao had addressed the governor of Newport a response arrived. A single ships had sailed over from Oceanrock bearing the response and this brought despair into the hearts of many for a single ship was unlikely to be carrying the King's entire entourage or a large enough support force to defend Newport and Mountainsgate from the wrath of Khan. From this single ship a man unknown to most people , protected by only a small escort, emerged and ordered the town gates to be opened before riding out to meet the Empire courtier who would take him back to their capital to meet the Emperor.

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Back in Oceans rock preparations were made for the arrival of Duke Kollin from the Southern Alliance lands to discuss a potential peaceful resolution to the tensions going on in Dont a region where both the Kingdom of Aznavor and the Alliance had many vested interests. Just days before the arrival of Duke Kollin King Phillip had sanctioned a move that would authorize the sending of several theater troupes, bards and musicians to Dont where they would perform traditional Aznavori songs and sagas including the tale of Bard and his lovely Lutetia who had been kidnapped by a vile foreign uncle who made her work as his slave in his home and mistreated forcing her to sleep in the cellar with his dogs instead of in one of his home's many rooms. The wicked uncle thinks to have Lutetia to himself by sending her sweetheart Bard away to fight in a war. The story is one of hope as eventually Bard returns from the war a hero kills the wicked oppressive uncle and frees Lutetia before marrying her. King Philip saw in this tale an opportunity to score a diplomatic victory so had his musicians and playwrights substitute the names Bard and Lutetia for Victor and Melodie a former King and Queen of Aznavor who had fallen in love with one-another when King Victor visited Melodie's fathers' estate in Dont as part of an official visit.

In other news due to the increased numbers of pirates and privateers in the western ocean King Philip has decided to invest 850,000,000 to build a series of warships.

---

TLDR
-An emissary is sent to respond to the Empire of Khan will it be fealty or War?
-Aznavor's Aventian towns prepare to fight off an attack by the Empire of Khan
-Aznavor isn't too badly affected by the winter they're kinda used to harsh winters and know what precautions to take.
- Aznavor employs soft power to send a propaganda campaign to Dont
-Preparations are made for the Arrival of Duke Kollin of the Alliance
-Aznavor's Aventian colony expands northwards as a mining town emerges.
-Building orders are placed in Shipskeep for:
1-Frigate
3-Schooners
and in Wintersgate for:
2- Sloops
10-Brigs

[Meth Quokka]

It’d been tough in recent times; the recession had really hit them hard but there were signs to be optimistic about despite the gathering storm clouds on the horizon. No matter how diplomatic, how peaceful and how much the Councilate tried to facilitate trade, every nation seemingly wanted to resort to war. The Commerce League would prove important now more than ever and he had to ensure it remained strong.

Empire of Khan

Most Eminent Zhou Fu,

I write to you as the elected leader of the Councilate of Arbasses, in regards to the message delivered by your envoy. I wholeheartedly apologise for the delay but such a matter took a great amount of discussion and advisory in order to navigate this treacherous situation. We have heavily invested in our two colonies on the continent known to us as Aventia and we can ill afford to see that slip away. Your demand for fealty and obedience is one of grave consequences for the nations of the world we know and the one you are yet to find out about. I would urge you to reconsider your aggressive position on this matter for both our nations stand to lose far more than what we could gain from war.

I would propose an alternative arrangement; trade with us. Get to know the benefits we could bring, the wealth we can generate and the technology we can share. Our old world carries with it advancements, resources and ideas that would surely not exist in the New World, just as you would have such things that we do not. I humbly request to have the courage to search for peace where war tempts, to propose the potential for a better future

Councillor Marcus de Happself,
Leader of the Councilate of Arbasses.

Commerce League members

Ave!

Exciting news has come from our colonies in Aventia; we have found a range of new trading goods that we endeavour to bring back from the New World to Edoniras. It has been a tough year; the Councilate was hit especially hard by the recent recent caused by the inept stupidity of the Bennipolis government. We cannot lose sight of our objective however; control of trade, despite our weakened states has become more important than ever for now is the chance to control the flow of new goods.

However there is worrying clouds on the horizon in the form of a native nation that appears to be aggressive and is attempting to extort fealty out of the colonial nations. We cannot bend our knee to such open arrogance yet they may pose a genuine offensive threat and there is news that the Alliance has made friendly contact with them so we shall endeavour to do the same. Should diplomacy fail I must regretfully warn you that your soldiers may be needed to protect our international stage for I may lack the means to effectively respond myself.

Despite these dire financial times, investment in the economy is what is required and as such we will be creating an import business to bring our following discoveries across:
- Stirge: a plant which when boiled can induce feelings of indescribeable euphoria
- Drikin: what appears to be a very cheap alternative to alcohol however there have been some deaths due to potency issues
- Halod: a mixture of our silk and wool which provides both maximum style, comfort and warmth in summer
- Jankin: a plant that when smoked relaxes your body and dispels all stress (tobacco)
Each of these has a profound potential for manufacturing in Edoniras as yet we are the only known producer. We’ve decided to offer these resources to the members of the Commerce League first in order to facilitate an adavtange in manufacturing. I would also suggest an ideas suggesting arrangement in order to co-operate to benefit all members from our research. An investment of $1B each should provide a handsome start to such a research fund.

Councillor Marcus de Happself

The City of Bennipolis

Athenakles,

You speak of peaceful intentions, of protection, of welfare yet you proceed to make aggressive demands and cause a widespread recession? Your threat to wage war over colonial expansion is not only short-sighted but poorly considered. Nations should aim to avoid establishing themselves as a villain on the world stage, not thrust themselves into the spotlight. I wished to conduct business with your nation, I wanted to help protect you from Terheridon and bring you into the Commerce League fold in order to benefit from our defensive pact. They would be incapable of declaring war against you without dragging their arms supplier and half the continent against them. It would’ve been the perfect countermeasure to their warmongering.

Yet now my councilmen and I are left questioning whether your nation can be trusted?

Sincerely,
Marcus de Happself

Kamalao Republi, Aznavor

Hail, fellow explorers and venturers!

I assume you received the letter of demands from this Empire of the Khan. I find their terms unbearable yet their threat could prove all too real. To defend these new world colonies would prove tough; the majority of our soldiers are back in Edoniras as are many of our alliances. As such I would like to suggest a defensive coalition against the Empire of the Khan. Coming to each other’s aid against this aggressor would lessen the toll of war upon us all and allow us to much more effectively combat this unknown entity

I look forward to your responses

Marcus de Happself

United Imperium of Valm

Emperor Walhart III,

It is with great humility that I must ask this question of your fine nation yet I fear for the financial health of my nation. It is no secret that I have invested our funds heavily in recent months yet the returns have been slow to reciprocate and the recession cost us dearly. What I ask of you is that our nation takes a turn for the worse yet again and if we run out of money in the treasury is for a low-cost loan or an asset buying agreement. I feel as if my nation has a significant advantage in shipbuilding technology before the massive $2.5 B investment I committed and as such our ships would prove to be worth every cent. In the future this could even be a viable business trade between our two nations, especially for our Ships of The Line.

In all I humbly request your aid should our time of need arise and I promise the Councilate will return that favour tenfold.

Marcus de Happself

Actions:
- Investment of $5 Billion into a colonial export business to bring a number of new world commodities over into Edoniras in order to jumpstart the Arbassian economy.
- Army preparations made for all but 5000 Recruits to be ready for immediate deployment to the defence of their colonies should it prove necessary
- Defenses (trenches, cannon towers, walls, traps etc.) prepared at their two colonies Wardenfall and New Stendmark, land patrols stepped up in order to detect any land advanced and two ship teams are sent down to the edge of the inland sea in order to detect any land advance
- Naval patrols stepped up, mainly focusing on a fan to the north but keeping a light screen to the south using the majority of the colonial navy. The homeland navy has been compartmentalised into a home defence and a relief fleet ready to sail across should it be needed.

[Sadko]

Thanat Shamash sighed, writing some documents. Kamm Kutuk had a hunting accident and lost a finger, which brought many grief, but the colonial affairs were much important than that. With no time for divine rituals, Kamm basked in the political and social problems of Kamalao.

Empire of Khan

Most Eminent Zhou Fu,

I must say that I am extremely sorry for the delay, but also I must say that, your requirements may be fatal to the many money we have poured into the colony, and as such if those conditions are forced on us, It may be considered an act of war, one which will be condemned in all of the international community. But to prevent the blood to be spilt, I hereby extend a trade agreement to the Empire of Khan as it will be benificial to Khan and Kamalao.

I'm glad to finally write to you,

Kamm Kutuk.

Instantly, many men we're mobilised, trained, armed, sounds of guns being trained on the ranges boomed through all of the colony, which was named Airavata.

Councilate of Arbasses

To Councillor Marcus de Happself, Leader of the Councilate of Arbasses.

Even though we do not endorse of organizations such as the Commerce League, we do indeed fear that Khan is oblivious to our western ideologies and ways of politics, extending unfavorable, grave conditions. We fully approve of creating a defensive coalition against the Empire of Khan to be strong against the possible foe. And while we are at it, we would like a secret arms trade to get more modernised equipment.

Sincerely,
Kamm Kutuk.

[Dedonus]

The City-State of Bennipolis
Bennipolis
The 14th Eponymous Year of Athenakles With Lysander as Interrex
It was a chilly morning in Bennipolis. Luckily for Bennipolis, their farmers were on the barley period of their crop rotation. While the Bennipolitans would prefer wheat to barley, they knew that barley was the hardier crop and more apt for their soil than wheat. Moreover, barley had a lesser chance of failing than wheat, allowing Bennipolitan to have a slightly larger harvest.

On that day, the Ekklesia of Bennipolis had gathered in order to decide the fate of Athenakles, who had single handedly crashed the entire economy of all the Edoniras. From the midst of the Ekklesia, a certain Cimon rose to his feet. This man was from the merchant class, or at least he was, since his means of livelihood had went up into smoke on account of Athenakles’ actions. In this way he spoke:

“My fellow Bennipolitans, we all know what Athenakles had done. He has brought much shame onto this fair city of Bennipolis for several reasons. First, he put himself and his own private interests before the interest of the Demos of Bennipolis. Next, he enacted a decree without our approval, which has caused havoc across Edoniras. What madness overtook you so that you would make such a rash decision, Athenakles? Your negligence has severely hampered Bennipolis in both its own domestic affairs and its international relationships.”

“Normally, we would ease our anger towards a sonless father, as you are, since we would never want to condemn the Bennidae to wither away without any male heirs, as the Bennidae are descended from Bennis herself. However, since the Bennidae are accustomed to allow their eldest daughter to become their heir if both the father is sonless and the daughter has Amazonian blood within her veins, as your daughter, Adraändreis, does. While I would personally want the death penalty, as you have killed the livilihood of numerous men, Hellenes and barbarian alike, which would be the easy way out. Therefore I propose that we perform an ostracism so that this very Athenakles might be ostracized.”

Therefore, all the Bennipolitans present at the Ekkesia were giving broken pottery shards and were instructed to write on the shard whom they wanted to be ostracized. When all the shards had been collected, there were two responses on the shards. One was ΑΘΗ, which were the first three characters of Athenakles’ name. The other response was ΟΔΥ, which was short for Odysseus, the legendary king of Ithaka from the Homeric epics. Once the votes had been counted up, ΑΘΗ had two more shards than ΟΔΥ. Therefore, Athenakles was ordered to leave the boundaries of Bennipolis and enter itno some other country while he was ostracized. His property shall remain untouched, as the rest of his family shall remain in Bennipolis as both guardians of his household and motivation that would inhibit Athenakles from doing anything rash against Bennipolis. Also, Lysander was named as the interrex for the post of Basileus Eponymous, since he would relinquish this position to Athenakles’ daughter once she comes of age in the fall. Furthermore, his son, Diomedes, would become the interrex for Basileus Hierateumatikos.

Also, the following letter was crafted and sent to the Councilate of Arbasses.

The Councilate of Arbasses

To the Boule of Arbasses .

We have received your letter. Athenakles was not able to response to your letter because his privilege for responding to international messages was revoked. Furthermore, after a long debate within our Ekklesia, we had finally come to a decision to ostracize Athenakles on account of his illegal decree that he invoked without our approval. He should not trouble you for quite some time, if ever again. Also, we, as the Demos of Bennipolis, have decided not to uphold Athenakles’ decree.

May the Immortals be kind to you.

The Demos of Bennipolis, sacred to lovely-haired Bennis.

gm

Athenakles has reached Terheridon and has supplicated the King there. Refusing a supplicant is a religious taboo, which would cause the gods to turn against Terheridon. Athenakles incites the Terheridonians to war against the Bennipolitans because their neighbors to the south had tried to interfere with the modernization of the Terheridonian military. Now with a more modernized military, along with Terheridon’s larger pool of manpower, the Terheridonians should have narrowed the advantage that Bennipolis had technologically. Since Athenakles was no longer in Bennipolis, Bennipolis no longer had anyone to fulfill the 'Amazon' omen. Furthermore, the economic crash has hurt Bennipolis, but Terheridon was not as inversely affected by the same event. In return for installing himself as the sole monarch of Bennipolis, Athenakles would promise to make his newly obtained country pro-Terheridonian. Athenakles advices that Terheridon should strike as swiftly as possible in order for Bennipolis' allies cannot have enough time to respond. He would like to either lead or assist the invasion force, since he knows the lands of Bennipolis well.

TL&DR
- "Trial" of Athenakles by the Ekklseia.
- Athenakles is ostracized , meaning he must leave all Bennipolitan territory for 10 years.
-Lysander becomes an interrex for the post of Basileus Eponymous. His son, Diomedes, becomes an interrex for Basileus Hierateumatikos (Lysander's old post). Athenakles' daughter shall inherit the post of Basileia Eponymous when she comes of age in the fall.
-Message sent to the Councilate of Arbasses by Lysander, apologizing for his fellow king's actions and that at this time, Bennipolis shall not uphold Athenakles' decree.

[Darthpaul]

Collab between Winston and I
Wan Chai, Capital of the Empire of Khan, Mother of all cities and seat of the Emperor of the earth

Baron Verlan Duloire had initially made his way north by carriage but the urgency of his mission dictated that he should act quickly, the survival of Aznavor’s two settlements in the new world depended on his work and thus he abandoned the comfort of his carriage for the mobility of a horse that belonged to a member of his escort The cuirassier had eagerly accepted to swap places and now finished the rest of his journey shielded from the rain . Verlan had learned from courtier Ga Yao that in Aventia, rainstorms , called monsoons, were frequent In summer and the summer months c constant downpours ould sometimes batter the land for weeks on end, rarely had he been so glad to be travelling in winter. His peer Ga Yao had turned out to be an amicable and intelligent man who knew much of his own people and Aznavors’ for the Khan no doubt had observers among all the colonies. At the beginning of their journey the men had employed Aznavori interpreters who had been living in Newport and had come into contact with the locals and picked up some of their strange language but by the end of the three week-long journey Verlan himself was had mastered basic Khanian etiquette and had grasped few sayings and quotes spoken by Khanian wise-men of old. He felt he had developed a sort of respect for Ga Yao the young and able eunuch that had accompanied him to the capital. Verlan had spent the first days of his journey asking about Khan’s customs and history hoping to discover useful information that he could report back to his younger brother King Phillip. When he did this, Ga Yao would smile politely, answer vaguely and change the subject. It was when, during the second week of travel,when Ga Yao and Verlan had begun talking without their interpreters , that the two envoys had begun playing opening up to each other This had first been achieved when Ga Yao invited his Aznavori counterpart to play Maidan ( The Empire’s equivalent to Chess) a challenge which verland had accepted with keen interest even though he lost all but one of the games he played with the Imperial courtier Despite these losses the journey became much more interesting and Verlan’s interest in the culture of the people of Khan soared prompting hi mto take his decision nto abandom formality and ride to the capital confident in the knowledge that the cuirassier he had left in the carriage would ensure its contents Aznavor’s gifts for the Emperor of the Earth would make it safely to his Imperial Majesty.

---

Ga Yao liked the look of Verlan Duloire’s face when he first saw the extensive fields leading to his home town a mix of awe and admiration were barely concealed beneath a weak veil of self-control.
“Ah yes the harvest has been tragically poor this year” he teased his foreign guest who soon gaveu p all pretense of not being impressed by the wonders of the Empire. Fields spread from one horiozon to the next interrupted only by hamlets which Duloire assured him would be considered large villages in his home country . The cortege had interrupted their journey only once on the way to the capital after Ambassador Duloire insisted on visiting a small roadside temple. To yao the temple was nothing impressive it’s walls were green and the temple did not have the gold-leaf roof of city temples. It was a fitting shrine for local spirits and the ancestors of the local peasants but no man could hope to directly address the Heavenly Emperor in such a place. Nevertheless, Duloire gazed in amazement as he stepped beneath the green marble arch and noticed the white jade statues within. Duloire had seemed so disappointed to leave the shrine that Ga Yao consented to writing him a permit to visit the biggest Temples of the Capital.

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Despite the best efforts of Ga Yao to be jovial Verlan Duloire felt a sense of concern when his horse reached the walls of the capital. Ten Thousand warriors all clad in steel lamellar armour bearing plumed helmets and bright banners were assembled on either side of the road leading t othe city gates which were themselves an impressive feat of engineering. Before entering the city the Verlan passed beath two massive oaken gates and two steel portcullises separated by thirty meters of tunnel.Tthis thick wall and long gates were evidently menat to trap enemies between the gates as the ceiling was a series of murder holes and funnels to pour boiling liquids down on any foes unfortunate enough to end up between the two gates. No doubt the Imperial soldiers were only a demonstration of the Empire’s might intended to worry the first foreigner to enter the capital of the Empire but the fact remained. The Empire was a nation which in peacetime could field an army of over 100,000 men and dedicate 20,000 of these to guarding one gate belonging to one of its cities.

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Emperor SI Fu was not blessed with courtier Yao’s patience or diplomatic skills and was not impressed by the Aznavori Ambassador yet he was pleased that Aznavor had ent an ambassador at all. Other nation could not boast as much.
“Have the other nations of your homeland forgotten their respect? Or is it that they have ever learned any?” boomed the Emperor in Khanian as soon as ambassador Duloire was led into the room.
“I cannot speak for my fellow ambassadors, nor their masters, my liege, but Aznavor has not forgotten the old ways. We too have wise-men who remind us of the importance of tradition, respect and honor. “
The court fell silent. Two things were clear. Firstly that two strong personalities wre present I nthe room and that for all the Aznavori’s talk of respect and honor, the ambassador had addressed the Emperor directly, without being introduced or even bowing. The second was that he spoke in Khanian.
The Emperor was the first to regain his composure. Had he even lost it? He smiled bemused at his foreign guest. And what do your great men say of tardiness and truth? My messengers inform me that you insisted on delaying your arrival to my city to stop at a lowly roadside shrine. Did you truly have too many sins to wash cleanse yourself of before meeting the son of the heavenly Emperor? Furthermore You are clearly not the King of Aznavor, my men have shown your coins and I can see that you are not King Philip of Aznavor.
“It’s true, my younger brother does not share my good looks but I assure you I have the authority to act on his behalf. He has granted me such priviliges because he values my honesty and valour and I bessech your to put them to the test. As to your first question, Krieger the blinds shares the same view as your own Diu Lei, he states that tardiness is always a fault of the lazy, the worthless and the extremely important. I hope that by trying to contact my God in one of your temples I have not given you the impression of belonging to one of the former categories. ‘
The Emperor eased up a little, pleased to have found a jousting partner as opposed to his usually sycophantic courtiers. He decided he like this man and would grant him an audience King or no. The other nations had after all not deigned to send anyone at all, where were their Kings or even their Kings’ brothers? Instead he had letters all stating much the same; trade with and do not fight with us for we are wielders of powerful magics from beyond the seas. The Empire had no need of their Trinkets nor fear of their threats. Spies of the Empire noticed ships carrying more and more soldiers to Aventia each day, cowards who hid in their home castles were these kings who preached peace with one hand yet prepared for war with the other. Some were no Kings at all! How could he be expected to foster friendship let alone trade with men who did not have bear the divine mandate to rule but merely the mandate of the common people? Aznavor had recognized the merits of the Empire and had sent a man of royal blood to treat with him. He would listen to the man’s propositions.
“I am willing to forgive the fact that you aren’t your brother. Indeed it would seem that some of the ladies at court are intrigued by your facial hairs that your brother does not seem to have. However I must insist upon the need for gifts. It is a tradition I cannot backdown on you msut understand.
Of course your grace. You need not worry your tribute is on its way by carriage. I hate to spoil your surprise but one of the gifts is meant do precisely that and therefore I will let you in on a secret. One of my Kings’ first gifts to your people is one of the magics from beyond the sea the other Kings have warned you so much about. Should you come to blows with these other Kings mine own liege, who I believe can will see you as a brother, would not see you at the mercy of their magics and would give you these gifts so that your warrior become accustomed to them before the need to face them arises. Now I wish to propose the following deal to your highness…
-“I insist on being the eldest brother.and I you must one day tell me why your younger brother not you inherited the thrones of Aznavor” declared the Emperor who was clearly younger than both King Philip and Baron Verlan.
Baron Verlan Duloire nodded and smiled knowing that sometimes it was best to keep one’s mouth shut. He would open it later only to present his deal, agree with his Imperial majesty and to share the Aznavorian wine that would by that evening have arrived at the palace. He let the Emperor have the last word for he had won his diplomatic victory.

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Summary
The Empire of Khan is introduced.
Verlan Duloire meets Emperor Si Fu and a friendship is made through Vineyard diplomacy.
The Kingdom of Aznavor is recognized as the Empire of Khan’s little brother (its inferior only in name)
250 Arquebus are gifted to the Empire of Khan to become acquainted with
Aznavor is declared The Empire of Khan’s primary trading partner and is given rights to send merchants into Imperial lands and trade in its resources.

[gowia]

Spring Rolls In

With the cold harsh months having gone the rains of spring have finally arrived and crops are beginning to thrive as new life is born. The farms across the continent have boomed bringing in large amounts of crops to all nations. It seemed the major crash in the market was not as bad as first thought and despite another fall in GDPs it was not nearly as bad as first thought and by the end of the year economies would be booming again. Furthermore the discovery of a new empire in Aventia has led to a completely new market in Edoniras. All nations lose 5,000,000,000 ($).

-Privateers were hired by not one but two nations have called for their aid. Bennipolis and the the Corleonn-Warrus-Grudden-Nollin Alliance both have looked to ‘pirates’. The routes to the New World are no longer safe for anyone.

-A year has passed since they were first commissioned however the canals in Aznavor have finally opened and goods are now transported around the country faster than ever. This has led to a slight increase in productivity. The Kingdom of Avnavor gain 250,000,000 ($).

-The events that occurred with De Stonee still haunt Lascaux as they found it increasingly difficult to attract economic specialists into their country however after much grovelling and begging from their leaders a number did arrive and begin reforming the economic system into one that was a lot more capable and effective, especially finding the invested funds useful. Lascaux gains 500,000,000 ($).

-The Sofon Dominion’s venture into the unknown was cut short by the recession however they were able to begin trading with some of the colonies on the side brining in a small profit themselves. This of course benefitted the Councilate of Arbasses who made some money off of the agreement. The Councilate of Arbasses gains 250,000,000 ($).

-It seems the Imperium of Valm has struck gold with Henry De Stonee. His fields have triple what he expected and as a thank you has gifted everything to the Imperium for giving him the opportunity as well as saving his life.

-Alongside the Imperium’s success in farming it’s recruitment drive has been fairly successful as well. 3,000 recruits have been drafted into its fold, the recession leading to a number of other men signing up in places with extreme shortages. The mperium of Valm gains 3,000 recruit and 5,000 consripts.

-With the collapse of the market and the extreme recession Dont begun a slow descent into anarchy. Recent ‘abductions’ of Dontian citizens led to even more heated relations between the two societies that made their home there however when their market crumbled it was the last straw. Alliance soldiers were spread thin having to corral their new ‘slaves’ across the borders and into the mines whilst President Von Klebb fled the country at the first sign of trouble. Without a leader and only a foreign occupation in charge the people of Dont have rebelled led by Robert Freedman. Supplies smuggled in over the Aznavor border have meant that the Workers Party have staged one of the largest rebellions the world has ever seen. Almost half of the population are now armed and openly defying the Corleonn-Warrus-Grudden-Nollin Alliance. Alongside this 70,000 recruit and 30,000 regulars have joined the banners of the rebels declaring their nation no longer under the tyrannical rule that they have suffered so long. The 20,000 regulars who have remained loyal are stuck desperately penned in to the mountains that surround the Alliance begging to be allowed refuge from the onslaught. Currently eighty percent of the citizens who had an Alliance cultural background are dead, their wealth thrown across the burning streets. The rest remain locked inside their compounds hoping that order will return if they simply bury their heads. Already Alliance soldiers are retreating across their borders and the men leading them are in the field, their army in disarray as they attempt to co-ordinate the return of order. Nacer remains an Alliance stronghold however it is under siege and only the palace guard remain to hold it, outnumbered almost fifty to one.

-Despite the bad economic time people still invest in colonial lands and new colonies are springing up all over Aventia.

New Map

-Furthermore the large investment into Aventian products has paid off for the the Councilate of Arbasses as people buy up the new ‘swanky’ products. The Councilate of Arbasses gains 1,000,000,000 ($).

-Finally, Terheridon has made a public declaration to the entire world. They stake a claim to all the lands that currently belong to the the City-State of Bennipolis and using the newly imported arms Terheridon intends to conquer the City-State of Bennipolis. With the new armsa their military has become more updated and as such 60,000 Recruit and 10,000 footmen have begun to march across the border they share, destroying villages and killing people as they go. Stealing the food they need to survive. They have offered any country that would aid the City-State of Bennipolis 10,000,000,000 ($) in gold now with the promise of a future 10,000,000,000 ($) when they win if they don’t interfere.

[Dedonus]

The City-State of Bennipolis
Bennipolis
The 14th Eponymous Year of Athenakles With Lysander as Interrex
As the interrex, Lysander held an emergency Ekklesia in order to determine the best action to take for the imminent invasion of Terheridon. Lysander stood in the midst of the Ekklesia and gave this speech.

“We need not be alarmed either at the possibility of the Tereridonians raising fortifications in Bennipolis, or at their navy. It would be difficult for any system of fortifications to establish a rival city, even in time of peace, much more, surely, in an enemy's country, with Bennipolis just as much fortified against it, as it against Bennipolis; while a mere post might be able to do some harm to the country by incursions and by the facilities which it would afford for desertion, it can never prevent us from sailing into their country and raising fortifications of our own there, and making reprisals with our powerful fleet. For our naval skill is of more use to us for service on land, than their military skill for service at sea. Familiarity with the sea they will not find an easy acquisition. If you who have been practicing at it ever since the Great War, which happened so very long ago, have not yet brought it to perfection, is there any chance of anything considerable being effected by an agricultural, unseafaring population, who will besides be prevented from practicing by the constant presence of strong squadrons of observation from Bennipolis? With a small squadron they might hazard an engagement, encouraging their ignorance by numbers; but the restraint of a strong force will prevent their moving, and through want of practice they will grow more clumsy, and consequently more timid. It must be kept in mind that seamanship, just like anything else, is a matter of art, and will not admit of being taken up occasionally as an occupation for times of leisure; on the contrary, it is so exacting as to leave leisure for nothing else.”

“Even if they were to touch their Tereridonian gold, and try to seduce our foreign allies by the temptation of huge tribute, that would only be a serious danger if we could not still be a match in arms for them, by embarking our own citizens and the aliens resident among us. However, in fact by this means we are always a match for them; and, best of all, we have a larger and higher class of native coxswains and sailors among our own citizens than all the rest of the lands around the Hellenic Bay. And to say nothing of the danger of such a step, none of our foreign allies would consent to stay neutral as our fair nation is barraged by the Tereridonian forces, for the sake of an extremely high tribute.”

“If they march against our country we will sail against theirs, and it will then be found that the desolation of the whole countryside of Bennipolis is not the same as that of even a fraction of Tereridon; for they will not be able to supply sufficient forces to repel our raiding parties since they have sent the majority of their military against us. On the reverse, since our forces are so small compared to Tereridon’s, sending out a small attachment against their homeland would not cause any more damage to our own land than if we kept them in our own homeland. The rule of the sea is indeed a great matter. Consider for a moment. Suppose that we were islanders: can you conceive a more impregnable position? Well, this in future should, as far as possible, be our conception of our position. Dismissing all thought of our land and houses, we must vigilantly guard the sea and the city. No irritation that we may feel for the former must provoke us to a battle with the numerical superiority of the Tereridonians. We know that the Tereridonians outnumber us. Therefore, we should not engage in battle until reinforcements arrive from our allies so that we might turn the odds in our favor. We must cry not over the loss of houses and land but of men's lives; since houses and land do not gain men, but men them. And if I had thought that I could persuade you, I would have bid you go out and lay them waste with your own hands, and show the Peloponnesians that this at any rate will not make you submit.”

“Therefore, first we must send a formal request of assistance to our allies. We hope that they value our alliances between us and them. Next, we must send word to the ruler of Alm, Alart III. Their nation had been supplying the Tereridonians with modern weapons for the past few months. We told them to reduce the amount of weapons that they would send to them because we knew that the Tereridonians would invade our land. Nevertheless, they did not listen. Now, since the Tereridonians are fully armed, they have arrived on our doorstep and the Almians are to blame! They complained that their economy was going to fold if they did not provide arms, but was their economy not afloat before Tereridon opened its borders and asked for military weapons? Their lead ears are to blame for this war and if they refuse to do anything about Tereridon, we shall press charges of reparations. For if someone would give a man a gun and that man would kill another man, wouldn’t the first person be also guilty by association because he was the one who provided the gun. If the first man had not given the second man the gun, the third man would not have been dead.”

“Next, we must rally our military forces. We must send messengers to all the tribes of Bennipolis and have them summon troops and one general before the gates of Bennipolis. In addition to this, all the people of Bennipolis would need to abandon their homes, destroying anything that might be able to be used by the Tereridonians, and come to the Eastern shores of Bennipolis, where our forces can defend them until our alliances can arrive. Finally, we shall send a naval force against the Tereridonian shores. Our first target should be their port cities. Destroying their navy would be extremely beneficial to our cause, giving us free rein over the waves. Then, once their navy burns and their ports destroyed, we shall start devastating their coastal regions. And throughout this excursion, we shall free all and any Hellenic serfs who have suffered under the Tereridonian iron fists for too long. We shall send two of our Frigates, 7 of our Schooners and Sloops, and 8 Brigs against the Tereridonian coasts, along with four-hundred knights and one-thousand regulars. Finally, we shall put out a call for arms to our nation. We hope to get as many recruits as possible who are not already in our ranks.”

And in this way Lysander gave his speech, which was met by a roar of applaud. The letters were sent to their respective recipients and a call of arms and retreat was given out to the rest of the Bennipolitan population.

Aznavor

To Philip, Basileus of the Aznauori.

As you surely have already heard, the Tereridonians have declared war against us and claimed our lands by means of words. This is a formal request of reinforcement in order to repel this attack on our fair nation. We understand that you might not be able to move troops quick enough in order to aid in the defense of Bennipolis, but we would be grateful if the Aznavuori would send troops and ships to the Tereridonian homeland so that we might either force their troops to turn back home or cause significant damage to their land. We shall also be sending a counter-strike, the size of which depending on how many troops, if any, that Kamalao Republi supplies.

In addition, we would like to beg you not to accept the Tereridonian bribe. We would hope that you value the friendship between our nations more than the greed for more resources and money.

May your God be gracious to you.

The Demos of Bennipolis

Kamalao Republi

To Kamm Kutuk, Basileus of the Kamalao, blessed by Hephaistos who dwells at Nuesma.

As you surely have already heard, the Tereridonians have declared war against us and claimed our lands by means of words. This is a formal request of reinforcement in order to repel this attack on our fair nation. We would like it if you could help reinforce our country by sending military troops over to our homeland in order to even the odds against the Tereridonians. Their forces out number us more than three to one. We would be extremely grateful if you send troops. We shall provide guides for your military so that you might be able to transverse our terrain with ease.

In addition, we would like to beg you not to accept the Tereridonian bribe. We would hope that you value the friendship between our nations more than the greed for more resources and money.

May the Immortals be kind to you.

The Demos of Bennipolis, sacred to lovely-haired Bennis.

Emperor Walhart III

To Alart III, Basileus of Alm.

As you surely have already heard, the Tereridonians have declared war against us and claimed our lands by means of words. We know that we are not on friendly terms; however, we would like you to send troops against the Tereridonian homeland. You may take any plunder that you can take from their land as you please. However, if you refuse to supply troops and if we happen to survive the onslaught of the Tereridonian forces, we shall be pressing for reparations against your nation for the arming of the Tereridonians.

May the Immortals be kind to you.

The Demos of Bennipolis, sacred to lovely-haired Bennis.

gm

The Bennidae family has requested that the Tereridonians allow free and safe passage to the hill of Irene, a small hill a couple of miles west of Bennipolis, which has a small temple of Irene on it, the goddess of peace, so that they might talk with Athenakles. Only 100 knights will be accompanying the Bennidae family. Therefore, they ask the Tereridonians not to send any more troops than as many as the Bennipolitans have.

Note: Speech quoted (and edited) from Thucydides' The Peloponnesian War, Book 1, Chapter 142

[The Incredible John]

Hevish, Corleonn

With Duke Kollin II still gone, overstaying his trip in Azvanor, Duke Hemmlar V has been appointed the temporary head of the alliance in Duke Kollin II absence. Duke Kollin II himself has sent a letter to the other members of the alliance council to proceed with the negotiations without him for he had to attend to other 'pressing matters'. The alliance members were then forced to converge on the mountain-top fortress of Hevish. The journey towards it was almost impossible and it was difficult to trek the long winding dirt paths that led to it. The snow was beginning to melt and the dirt paths were beginning to get dangerously slippery. The horses climbing up the path had top be handled by professional guides who knew the route well and had to, at times, calm the animals if they didn't want to fall off the cliff. At the top, a welcoming party was ready to receive the visitors. Some workers were preparing to lay down some gravel on the road so that the trip below would not be as dangerous or even more so. Duke Hemmlar V along with his adopted son, Sir Karl August, were among the those of the party. This meeting among the members were to discuss the dire incident that was happening in Dont. Its neighbor has seceded to rebellion, to nobody's surprise, and most of their men, along with Dictator Lipeche II, was trapped in the capital of Nacer. The alliance men anticipated this, although they did not thought that it would be as devastating as this. The men came, the ceremonies were held and they were quickly rushed to the conference chamber where they were provided an excellent view of the mountain slope winding down to the valley below. They all took their seats and were handed their refreshments. Duke Hemmlar V then spoke.

"Gentlemen, I'm sure you are all aware of what's happening in Dont?" Hemmlar asked. The rest of the men could only nod.

"Now I do not wish to waste our time, that is why I would present my proposal and we shall take a vote whether to commit to it or not. If anybody has any better plan, speak after I have done so. Recently, my men captured Von Kliebb trying to make to the town of Baliche south of this town. I have him under my custody. We exchange him with the safe passage of our men from Dont to alliance lands."

"What if they refuse, seeing as we have 'borrowed' a lot of their citizens for our mines." Sir Coppish asked.

"Their will for independence from Alliance 'tyranny' is only matched by their lust for vengeance. They will see to it that Von Kliebb is to be hanged at all cost. All we ask is for our soldiers to return home safely, along with any Dont officials who would like to join us."

"That reminds me, there are those who would like to seek quarters in Nollin. Dont soldiers who are still loyal to Von Kliebb I think." Duke Ollisius said, remembering this fact.

"Let them in as long as they change allegiance to our cause. Men with training in the art of warfare are always welcomed here." Duke Hemmlar V answered. "Well gentlemen, we all have our jobs to do, may Altaiya help us all."

gm

The new president of Dont, President Robert Freedman has been invited by the Corleonn-Warrus-Grudden-Nollin Alliance to join them in the Norfolkke, Grudden to discuss the exchange of former Dont President, Otto Von Kliebb for the safe passage of alliance soldiers any Dont citizen who would seek safe refuge in alliance lands. All Dont soldiers who wish to enter the alliance nations are also free to do so as long as they pledge their allegiance to the alliance.

[Sadko]

Kutuk slowly overlooked from his balcony, the booming city of Cheahattro. It was a couple of days since the barbaric Terheridon's invasion of Bennipolis, and things weren't going too good. All armies were to be mobilised to protect their ally in need. He desperately called for the international community to condemn the attacker.

"People of Cheahattro!" he boomed, standing up. "Our ally, Bennipolis, stood strong and just, while Terheridon greedily ate away and armed themselves, to attempt to invade Bennipolis for no justifiable reason." He showed towards the entrance as a little, exhausted, barely alive girl stepped up on the stage. "Her name is Amelia, she is Bennipolitan and lived alongside the Terheridon border. She had to endure pain, witness the death of her mother, father, her brothers! Ssh, don't cry. You're a heroine to us today. You have walked through places we have never walked through, you have shown us the savageness of Terheridon." Guards gently led her over to her room. The crowd applauded the Kamm, soldiers roared, youths stormed the recruitment office, and Kamm humbly walked away.

As he walked inside his room, he found a man clothed in dark robes sitting atop his balcony. "I am glad you have come." He sat down on his bed, and spoke up; "I want to buy your services. Assassinate all prominent generals and influential figures as well as King Dearheart. Sabotage all things that could be sabotaged, and you will have a good reward." The dark man nodded, and jumped on the neighboring rooftops, running off stealthily.

Admiral Efendi stepped on the dock, to find himself staring at a privateer. He hated those men, but his opinions mattered not, he would be unceremoniously kicked out if he dared lift a hand against those bastards. He grimly threw a bag of coins at the man, and nodded. They did everything with style, knew all the things they needed to know. Do not attack Bennipolitan nor Kamalao ships, but always attack and raid the Terheridon's ships and allies. Efendi sighed, and emerged back into his ship's cabin.

TL;DR
-Kamalao Republi is urging the international community to condemn the attacker.
-The whole military and navy is mobilised
-A declaration of war is issued to Terheridon, either give up and pay reparations and disarm or face the fury of Kamalao.

gm

Kamalao enlists the help of privateers to attack ALL Terheridon and Terheridon's allies ships, as well as hires a professional assassin company to kill all influential figures, generals, admirals, and kill King Dearheart.

[Asura]

Standing upon his personal balcony, mighty Walhart examined the beauty of his capital which expanded out on all sides from his mighty palace. Spring time was finally upon his lovely empire. With the recent world happenings, he made sure to take this time to relax and properly plan out how his country would react to the events which expired around them. It seems Valm had to do nothing in response to Bennipolis. Their broad claims to all lands of the new world brought the ire of not only the commerce league, but many other nations at large. Their standing among the international community plummeted. No longer would he worry about those fleas biting at his side like the nuisances they were. He had received word that Terheridon had even launched an invasion upon the fools for their bold claims. It seemed the weapons that transferred hands into their poorly armed military were of great use. Still, not all was well. Kamalo, the outdated nation to Valm's south had publicly declared their disapproval of the situation and seemed to be urging the continent to turn on Terheridon. It put Valm in an odd spot. With so much of their boarders shared with Valm, trading with them was very lucrative. If Terheridonian gold was to make it to a large portion of the land it would have to cross through his borders and withstand his taxes. If, Kamalo were to mobilize their forces against Terheridon and win, it would gravely hurt the beautiful trade that expired between her and Valm.

At the same time, Walhart doubted that any other nations would be as bold as to invade Terheridon considering who their target was. Bennipolis had rightly pissed off the commerce league, the group whom Valm belonged and as a result, held the strongest combined military strength in the world. So, any nations among Valm's associates would be unlikely to wage war against the wealthy, if not backwards aggressors. Bennipolis was pitiful in terms of her military numbers, but Kamalo was a threat. Her forces nearly rivaled Valm's in sheer number, but paled in comparison when it came to training and modern weaponry. He knew not much about Terheridon's own military, but a joint attack between both Bennipolis and Kalmalo could spell disaster for them. Valm would a chance at gaining more wealth, and Kalmalo and Bennipolis would lined their pockets with the spoils. Still, Valm couldn't publicly support Terheridon. They brought war upon a continent which had seen peace for long. It would also lower Valm in the eyes of the Commerce League, at least in the eyes of Arbasses, the most valued of them all. Perhaps some diplomacy and a nice infusion of coin would change their tones, should Valm need to mediate the conflict with her armed forces.

But the worries at home couldn't have come at a worse time. Not only were the seas rife with pirates these days, something he had a solid hunch was not completely the vault of recent colonization attempts alone, but winter storms had delayed Valm from responding to Arbasses' request for finacial aide. That would surely set them back in their fleet building attempts. Even once it was done and over with and the colonies Valm intended to form were said and done, making war with anyone now, especially the naval powers of Kalmalo and Bennipolis would make life difficult for the colonies and the freshly appointed sailors of Valm's navy unpleasant to say the least. Perhaps, instead of letting himself be brought into war as others of his lineage maybe have done, Walhart would stand back. Build up his lands once more, get the economy roaring and ready to fund the new world expeditions while his neighbors made bold claims and squabbled. He inhaled the fresh air of the spring once more before returning to his chambers and sitting upon his desk. He grabbed some parchment and a quill, scribing away in his bedroom whilst the gentle snores of his wife and the calming breeze of the outside world filled the room.

The Councilate of Arbasses

'It is true that our nations fall on hard times as a result of the bickering that surrounds the new world. Valm is happy to assist her allies in the Councilate in any way necessary. In light of our intentions to expand to the new world, your suggestion to provide Valm with ships via your docks is very interesting. After speaking with my council, we have agreed upon the number of vessels to be constructed and shall pay your listed price in full. 10 Brigs, 8 Sloops, 4 Schooners and 3 Frigates should be constructed as soon as possible. Expect payment to arrive within the coming days of this letter, along with the men who shall captain these vessels and the colonists whom shall sail with them. In addition, Valm shall send the earlier requested 1,000,000,000 to assist in the importation of these newly discovered resources.

Unfortunately, good business is not the only reason I write this letter to you. As you know, war has fallen upon Bennipolis. No doubt a result of their insulting behavior in the passed year. Kamalo requests the international community come down upon Terheridon with its full might. I must disagree. Bennipolis had the gull to threaten the world at large with war. Now that they've received it, they beg their more powerful allies to rally support for their cause? No. I say that the Commerce League have no part in condemning either side. It is the business of Bennipolis and Bennipolis alone. Valm has no intentions of intervention in the conflict and I assume the Councilate agrees in such.

- Emperor Walhart III of the Imperium'

One letter down. With the councilate addressed and Valm's opinions sent to the league, it was time to take steps in interactions with other nations. It was fairly common knowledge that Marcus, Walhart's eldest son and heir to Valm's throne was of age to marry. He had been for some time now. Walhart was personally proud of his boy. He was of strong body and sharp wit. A tad aggressive, but a shrewd man who was a worthy heir to the Valmese throne. But the boy had yet to take up a bride, preferring to focus on a strong military career before he settled down for more noble duties, as Walhart himself and Walhart's father had. He blamed the lad not. It still didn't make the constant requests and offers of his councilmen's daugthers any less irritating. Walhart had nothing to gain from his son laying with Valmese women but grandchildren. As much as he looked forward to those, marriage with another kingdom was far more lucrative. Frankly, he had intended to work out a deal with Terheridon. Their wealth would make them very useful allies. True, their nation had an odd system of rotating dynasties, but they were set for another 99 years, more than enough for Valm to get what it needed from them. Other governments had adopted their 'senates' and 'ruling councils'. It made political marriages useless. Still, a few kingdom remained. Aznavor to the high north, while not sharing a border with Valm, was an option. If he recalled, they possessed daughters of age. Marrying one of their daughters off to the heir of a wealthy and powerful empire would do well for them. Valm would gain more allies in the world, gain more support in their colonial endeavors. It was a win win.

So he drafted another letter to be sent out.

Kingdom of Aznavor

'Greetings. I'm certain you are aware of the violent events falling upon our homelands as of late. Harsh words turning to bloody conflicts and neighbors turning on neighbors over menial things. In times likes these, it is of the utmost importance that nations band together in alliances and keep themselves safe. Valm would personally like to extend its hand to Aznavor in these troubled times, to build an alliance together to brave the world as it takes a turn for the worse. Building ties now could mean a world of difference should the conflicts of the southern lands begin to engulf more and more of the continent. No foul feelings shall be had if you refuse, but I must request you consider joining forces with the Imperium. May luck shine upon you in the coming times.

Walhart III, Emperor of the Imperium of Valm'

The emperor sighed softly as he finished his letter, sliding it to be taken to his aides and sent off with the others later. Just a few more orders of business to attend to and he would be done. With the economy still injured from the market crash, it was important to invest in industry and growth now. Help revitalize the system so that Valm could expand its coffers once more. Henry De Stonee's successes were also to be spread throughout the empire's fields. Then there was the business of the newly received troops to attend to...

"Isn't it a bit early to be attending to those affairs, my dear?..." Purred the empress from the large bed she shared with her husband. "It's not often we get this kind of time to ourselves. Perhaps you can forsake your writing for just a few hours? I have a few issues in dire need of your attention.~"

How could a husband refuse such a request? The emperor stood from his study and stretched slightly. Yes... perhaps attending to more 'internal' affairs would do him some good. Valm could wait for just another day...

TL;DR;

Valm declares it shall not interfere in the war efforts. As such, it accepts Terheridon's bribe without shame.
Striking a deal with the Councilate, Valm spends 2.5 billion to construct its first naval fleet. General Val Heimstell is appointed Grand Admiral of the newly formed force and leaves for Arbasses with his officers and men to crew the newly commissioned vessels.
Valm also invests another 1 billion in Arbasses' import plans.
To revitalize and strengthen the economy of Valm, it spends 5 billion on internal improvements of its industry and commerce sectors.
Henry de Stonee's inventions are spread throughout the country side to help boost the agricultural production. He is credited for his invention and receives a personal award from the Emperor for his contributions to Valm's peoples.
Valm's military begins drilling the newly recruited Conscription forces in the hopes of turning them into a more formidable force.
Valm requests an alliance with Aznavor.

[Meth Quokka]

After a trying year the future of Arbasses was beginning to look positive once more; their colonial possessions were beginning to turn a profit and promised strong long-term profitability, their deal with the Sofon Dominion was beginning to look like a master stroke and their coalition of rivals faced a crisis from the warlike state of Terheridon. The only slight downside was the costs inflicted by the discovery of the new empire across the sea but there was a few tricks up Marcus’ sleeve to deal with that.

The first matter of business was the matter of their ship construction deal with Valm which’d seen them net a profit of $0.5B to their coffers and $2B worth of work going to their shipyards. In return they’d produce a fleet for one of their colonial allies to expand with. All in all it was looking like a triple win off this deal for the Councilate. Work was to begin immediately on these ships and utilising their new shipyards and technology they’d be able to pump them out relatively quickly.

Now to the Terheridon conflict, there was a number of interesting avenues to take with this opportunity. Firstly he had his friend Emperor Walhart III suggesting neutrality from the Commerce League, there was the Kamalao Republi asking for international condemnation and finally there was the option of bringing their full weight to bear in assisting the aggressor. After all they were attacking Bennipolis, the nation that’d been the cause of the global recession and has proclaimed outright aggression against the world. Bennipolis had spat in the eye of the world and been shocked when it’d responded.

Valm

Emperor Walhart III,

I agree with your standpoint of having neutrality in this conflict with not condemning the actions of Terheridon. Business as usual should continue however I feel it is worth noting that we should watch the international scene with regards to this invasion. Should the times begin to appear desperate for the Terheridon due to intervention of Bennipolisian allies then we should consider intervening to openly assist Terheridon. Whilst this seems like a contentious decision, seeing Terheridon destroyed or crippled would destroy the balance of power in the region and open the Commerce League lands up to invasion by our rivals. In fact, I shall take the extraordinary measure of commiting $1B in order to secure a new arms shipment for the Terheridon armies, supplied by you of course. Keep my actions in this anonymous and secretive, I trust in the confidentiality of your government.

Marcus de Happeself

Now to the matter of the international pressure, Marcus decicded; the Kamalao Repbli had called upon the nations of Edorinas to declare the invasion illegal and condemn it. But a question had remained for Marcus and the Council as to whether it was illegal or not; he’d put his nations best lawyers, judges and doiplomats onto the matter and they’d come back saying Terheridon did indeed have a casus belli for invading Bennipolis. Such a revelation had torn Marcus down the middle, he did not want open hostility and war to ravage Edorinas yet he couldn’t proclaim against the law and expect justice within the land. The Casus Belli in question was mainly revolved around two incidents: firstly the colonial proclamation which despite being sent by a deposed leader could still be seen as an aggressive action and as such the Terheridons were merely defending themselves and secondly the attempts of Bennipolis to halt their arms supply was a dishonourable action and as such they could claim grievance for that. Yet they hadn’t announced a Casus Belli for their invasion either so there was another shred of doubt around the legitimacy of their invasion. All in all, Marcus felt he couldn’t condemn it internationally and still feel just about his actions.

Kamalao

The Honourable Kamm Kutuk,

I write to regretfully inform you that after consulting the lawmakers in my country, who deemed the invasion of Terheridon as legitimate due to a Casus Belli regarding dishonourable actions and blatant aggression, cannot condemn this invasion. Whilst it’s legitimacy may be questionable, I cannot definitively state that it is illegitimate thus I cannot condemn it. Despite my hopes of seeing a peaceful Edorinas and commerce that is not ravaged by war there is little I can do to intervene in this conflict for the purpose of a peaceful resolution

Marcus de Happself

Through war came one major opportunity however; their supply of Drikin, a cheap and more potent form of alcohol from their colonies, whilst unsafe to drink had proven to be an affective anti-bacterial agent. As such Marcus sent his merchants out to the nations of Edorinas praising the medicinal effects of Drikin, with a particular focus on those at war. Infection, disease and injury were all common in war, as such would a supply of potent anti-bacterials not be handy for their doctors?

Business was also proposed with the Sofon Dominion, they're colonial possessions were coming further under threat from privateers due to the actions of a few jealous nations that sought the wealth of others.

Sofon Dominion

To the Most Esteemed King Edgard III,

With the new scourge of piracy on the seas threatening our domestic and overseas trade from the new world, I write to offer the Sofon Dominion a chance to purchase ships from the Arbassian shipyards in order to further to protect your trading interests. I offer both new ships and ships straight away in order to provide immediate protection. Whilst this will not change our current friendly relations should you say decline this opportunity, I believe such an arrangement will greatly profit the both of us as well as laying a foundation for creating a fleet for the Sofon Dominion using our unparalled knowledge and skills. Here are the prices we offer:
Brig - 20,000,000
Sloop - 70,000,000
Schooner - 150,000,000
Frigate - 400,000,000
SOTL - 600,000,000

I look forward to your reply,
Marcus de Happself

The last matter he had to attend was a secretive one, funds were sent with an armed escort and the utmost secrecy in order to secure a contract for reasons unknown.

TL;DR
- Arbasses neither condemns nor condones the Terheridon invasion (do I receive the bribe for this as Kamalao technically called us to assist?)
- 0.5B is deposited into the Council coffers and ship production commences for Valm
- $1B is deposited into a Commerce League fund
- Drikin is offered as a cheap and potent anti-bacterial agent to the nations of the world, a handy tool in this time of war (based off the effects of normal alcohol)
-

GM

- $1B sent to Valm in order to assist with arms production for the Terheridonian war effort
- $0.5B invested into the Cartographers guild in order to explore south of Aventia with Arbasses solely receiving information about any new lands

[Winston Smith]

Usually, with spring came new life, flowers would begin to bloom, the great bears of the north would emerge from hibernation, streams would come to life again after long months of slumber but with this spring came death. As the people of Edoniras counted their dead, the revolution of Dont reached scales of terror with non Aznavori families and soldiers being dragged from their homes and murdered by people who used to be their neighbours. To the south two warlords waged war over the southern peninsula. Rumours of a rogue Bennipolitan warlord leading the antiquidated forces of the Kingdom of Teheridon over the border into his homeland abounded. The reality of these rumours was only clear when King Phillip Duloire received an appeal for help from his ally.
Having just seen off Duke Nollin of Norfolkke and his wife off to their ship after a successful diplomatic visit, Philip had returned to his royal business. He was overseeing the final steps of the overthrow of the Nacer Regime, so far everything had gone according to plan; townships and communes were falling to the Aznavor-backed revolutionaries with each passing day and advisors had been sent to assist Robert Freedman in building a sustainable economy after the economic mess had struck the continent. The last step that remained was the seizure of the presidential palace of Nacer where all the corrupt heart of the regime had regrouped. No doubt his friend Robert had already sent men to collect cannons from the Dontian navy in order to break down the walls. Such weapons would eventually tear down the walls that needed to be overcome but King Philip hoped that things could be done more delicately. During autumn and the winter months an Aznavori spy network had set itself up within Dont and a few agents had remained trapped within the capital when Otto von Klieb ordered the city sealed. They would undoubtedly be eager to see an end to the struggle and avoid being part of the bloodbath that would inevitably ensue if the mob took the capital by storm. These half dozen agents could undoubtedly act as a fifth column but only if communication between them and the besieging forces could be established. Getting in touch with the mob outside was relatively easy as all available men were needed and given weapons to man the walls with. A first message was quite easily fired via crossbow bolt down into the camp of the mob. It informed the revolutionaries of their existence, their plan to open the city gates at night three days hence when they would be given sentry duties. No response could be expected from the revolutionaries as the city walls were high and the weight of a similar messaged fastened to a crossbow bolt could never reach them. The spies could only hope that someone in the besieging forces would get the letter and could convince the leaders of the forces besieging the capital to act on it.
It was after King Philip had ordered the dispatch of advisors to assist the formation of the new Dontian government that a messenger rushed in bearing news from the south.
‘‘The ravens are sent. Bennipolis calls for aid!’’
The room was quiet for a second as each council member weighed the consequences of non-intervention and intervention. Peace and acceptance of Teheridon’s offer would mean discrediting Aznavor’s credibility, and allowing a powerful friend to collapse whereas war would mean more death, expenses and a weakness that enemies of Aznavor could attempt to exploit. It was a hard decision.
‘’And Aznavor shall answer!’’
boomed the King. Aznavor had few enemies besides the doomed members of the Nacer government and had only friends at its borders. Besides a friend who Aznavor helped today was a friend Aznavor could count on in the future.
‘’Ross of Shipskeep: ready the fleet. You have three weeks on the fourth it leaves harbour. ’’
‘What of the army sire?’
‘’ It will remain here, at least for now’’
‘’Martin of Misthall and Matthieu Delunion: I want you to get in touch with our southern friends and coordinate a strategy with them. See what they want of Aznavor’’
‘’Barlow: take steps to finance our operations as we get more news. Find new sources of wealth, perhaps we could find some resources I nthe new world than would help generate profits’’.
As the men set off to their duties the King discreetly whispered to his son and heir, Alexander:
‘’Use the lessons you have learned in Dont to prepare Teheridon for invasion by Bennipolis’s Republi allies. I want the few forces Teheridon has left to defend, scattered all over the place when the Kamm strikes. You have many agents in Teheridon, make use of them I want misinformation spreading, I want rumours of new heavy wartime taxes reaching the serfs and them believing them, I want soldiers on the front lines to be receiving news of their wives being unfaithful back at home. I want you to make chaos happen. Show me what you have learned’’.
As Alexander turned away, he king added ‘’Also I want you to go and see the royal tailor and talk to you mother because as soon as the Republi attacks you’re getting married’’. The pricne was confused but did not argue for he was a man who understood his duties.
‘’Can I ask who to?’’ asked the prince surprised that his father had finally made up his mind after having turned down so many potential noble Aznavori brides.
‘ You’ll find out soon enough. Somehow I don’ think you’ll mind. ’’ The King smiled ‘ for now focus on your wartime duties, you can focus on your bedroom ones some other time. Though I don’t imagine you need much guidance there either, from what I heard during our guests’ visit their daughter was quite fond of you. ‘’. The king grinned like a cheshire cat and read over a sealed letter letting his son know that the conversation was over.
When Alexander left the room, the King asked his remaining councillors on how to best reply to The Emperor of Valm, powerhouse of Edoniras. Eventually the drafted up the following response

Valm

Greetings mighty Emperor Walhart,
Indeed the goings on of the current world trouble me as well and I appreciate hand you have intended. Such an Alliance would be mutually beneficial to our people and would solidify the respect of our royal families. The offer you make on behalf of the Imperium is a generous one but in order to defend the interests of my people I feel I must make two requests of my own. The first is that Celena might be allowed to meet your heir, in our northern Kingdom it is traditional that betrothed couples are allowed to meet before the ceremony. Secondly I must request that this alliance remains a private bond between our two nations and that it will not interfere with either of our own foreign policies. To make matters clear I trust that you understand that Aznavori intervention in the Bennipolitan conflict is inevitable as I have given my word. I cannot allow and ally of mine who had implored my help to be invaded by not only a traitor who is not only at the head of a foreign army but also the man responsible for the economic chaos we are in. Aznavor cannot permit Atthenakles to lead the Teheridonese forces to victory.
I hope to hear from your highness soon,
King Philip Duloire- King of Aznavor

[Darthpaul]

Emperor Si Fu was pleased, his sleep had been undisturbed for weeks, his country had a new trade partner who not only brought profits to his empire but also guaranteed the safety of the eastern provinces. Si Fu knew that if any threat to his Empire existed it would come from either the Kamalo republi or the Conciliate of Arbasses who were to his west. The latter in particular was a threat for it possessed two adjacent settlements and had expanded towards the Empire of Khan. It also seemed to be building up a large number of forces on the continent of Aventia Khanian scouts saw large boats offloading hundreds of soldiers into the city. There could be little doubt of the intentions of the Arbassian people. Thankfully friendship with his little brother meant Si Fu was aware of things his western enemies would not expect. Many of his warriors had been shown the fire weapons that Ambassador Verlan Duloire had brought over and once troops had been introduced to such a weapon and its effects they would no longer be surprised by it or fear its terrible sound in battle. Si Fu had considered purchasing such weapons from Aznavor but the councillors from the earth and Fire party advised him against such actions. Why spend Khanian silver on foreign trinkets when his empire had crossbows that could fire at a much greater range and much more frequently than these arquebus could. The men who had demonstrated the weapons to his soldiers boasted about firing four rounds in a minute but each of his repeating crossbowmen could fire near to forty bolts a minute at a slightly greater range. The only apparent advantage of the Edoniran weapon was its accuracy but knowledge of the land and superior numbers would overcome this. If they wanted war his walls would be manned and his people would be ready.

In other news adventurers to the south had written with stories of large grey animals twice as tall as horses with thick hides against which blades did very little damage. It would seem that after many years of building the great southern river had finally been bridged. Si Fu was proud the southern river had always been an obstacle to the southern expansion of the Empire of Khan and it had been one of his fathers’ personal projects to cross the Southern River. It was an accomplishment that Si Fu had overseen his father had believed in working during the dry months when water flow was reduced but no matter how many workers or gold he invested in the project the summer rains would bring the floods that would wash away all construction before a bridge could be completed. Si Fu had followed this approach but with a major modification instead of simply hoping for a late monsoon season he bought his workers more time by building an earthworks damn that would divert the water around the contraction works until a suitably sturdy bridge could be completed. Now he could finally boast that he had achieved his fathers’ dream and that his bold new approach had paid off. He ordered that men be set to the task of domesticating these beasts; no doubt their size and strength could be put to good use. As he dispatched the order the young emperor called for a scribe to write the following letter and send it away immediately.

King of Aznavor

Little Brother,
Your ambassador, our now mutual brother, has told me many good things about your rule that you are both wise and and strong, powerful yet considerate. With enemies at our door and opportunities for both our people in mutual cooperation I propose we reinforce the friendship between our families through matrimony. As I have no heirs of my own yet I propose that a marriage is made between either your son or your Ambassador and brother to my younger sister Yi Na. I have arranged an official portrait of her to be sent along with this letter and await your reply. Unfortunately my advisors have convinced me that your offer of muskets is not in the interests of my Empire at the moment and I must refuse your offer.
His Imperial Majesty Si Fu ruler of the Empire of Khan

Summary
Elephants are discovered in southern Aventia and people are instructed to tame them.
Emperor Si Fu is wary of the Conciliate and prepares his cities for siege as scouts report increasing number of settlers.
The great southern River is bridged! No immediate expansion yet but the extension of the Empire of Khan is now possible.
Aznavors’ offer of Muskets for GDP is rejected as the Empire sees no use for the slow cumbersome weapons.

[gowia]

‘War Never Changes’

-War has always been a brutal thing and the Tereridonians were in no mood to change that. Bodies littered the streets of the villages and towns they sacked on their rampage towards Benniopolis itself. Women were raped as their homes burnt however nothing was slowing the assault.

The City-State of Bennipolis

The Tereridonians have given permission for the talks to take place and will, in turn, halt their attack whilst the peace talks take place. They also say that they will be sending 100 of their own knights to protect Athenakles. In accordance with what you are doing. (Basically you can flesh the talks out however you wish but Tereridon either want Athenakles installed as the new leader of Benniopolis or they want the land highlighted below.)
Apologies it is just a print screen, I haven’t had time to do a lot at the moment.

However recent messages between the waring parties have caused the Tereridon to cease their relentless killing for the time being, in hopes that a resolution might be found. Currently peace talks are taking place. Tereridon makes it clear that all countries aiding Benniopolis honour this too. The Kamalao Republi also came under some pressure for their decleration of support for Benniopolis, they had enlisted the aid of the Stone Rose Society, a guild of assasins renowned throughout the world however one of the assassins was captured on his entry to King Dearhearts private chamber,in exchange for his freedom he gave up the name of his employers, the Republi. Terheridon has publically denounced the Kamalao Republi as underhand, back stabbing and devious as well as not to be trusted by other nations for this blatant act of disrespect. However whilst this was happening all trading parties and vessels have been halted from entering into Terheridon.

-In other news the revolution in Dont was becoming more and more bloody as the days went on. Bands of ‘Freedom Fighters’ went from village to village slaughtering anybody believed to be aiding the regime. Public executions were common and nobody seemed safe. Robert the Freedman officialy claims he is no leader of the revolutionaries however coordinates everything from his own base inside the capital. The Palace still stood as a government stronghold however it was running low on supplies and would fall soon.

Corleonn-Warrus-Grudden-Nollin Alliance

Robert the Freedman has refused your offer of a meeting, as this would hurt his image and reputation with the party. He has sent you the following offer however.
Firstly, Otto Von Klebb will be returned to the People’s Republic of Dont to stand trial.
Secondly, all Alliance forces will withdraw from Dont territory and all Dontian citizens wishing to return from Alliance mines will be returned.
Thirdly, the Alliance will publically ask that all loyalists remaining in Dont stand down to face trials.
In exchange for this Robert is willing to allow the following.
Firstly, the 20,000 soldiers who defy the revolution will be stripped of all their arms and gear, dishonourably discharged and then escorted to the Alliance border where they may join with your faction.
Secondly, any Alliance citizens, soldiers and officials will be allowed to return to Alliance lands unharmed.

-In light of all the death Drikin is indeed an incredibly effective and useful anti-bacterial agent, armies and mercenaries buy it up in large quantity to deal with the constant threat of infection. The Councilate Gains 1,500,000,000 ($).

-

The Councilate of Arbasses

The Sofon Dominion gratefully accepts your offer however with recent economic problems they will not be purchasing ships just yet Also they accept the New World goods and are happy to give you 1 billion to aid the research.

[Asura]

So the wildfire grew. Reports the emperor received of the war were... well, one sided. It seemed the freshly trained troops of Terheridons were cutting down any resistance in their paths. He was, to say the least, surprised by their sudden cease fire. It troubled him. There was no reason for them to call the cease fire, aside from fear of intervention via the Kalmalo Republi. It no doubt had to do with the mad Bennipolian king among their midst. A plotting scoundrel. He didn't like this at all. This man was no doubt the cause of the invasion. Walhart wagered the ceasefire was his idea. Probably wanted something left to rule when the Bennipolians inevitably surrendered. It also meant, should he be put on the throne, Terheridon would be awfully friendly with the new regime. Considering Bennipolis' condeming of Valm and their bold claims over the new world came from the crazy greek's time on the throne, allowing Atthenakles to take his country by force wasn't something Valm enjoyed. Their buffer would become another side of the front line.

So he began drafting. In light of the current events, the international community would be a buzz with activity. He needed to capitalize on this. This time would be dire if the events of this debacle escalated.

The Kingdom of Aznavor

I understand. To expect you to deny a plea from an ally is unfair. I can make no promises about Valm's siding in this conflict should it escalate to encompass more of the globe, but I must agree with your feelings on Atthenakles. I fear for the state of the world should a warmongering madmen like himself be allowed to take the throne by force in Bennipolis. But it brings about the question, if he is to be installed as ruler of his people once more, what shall Aznavor do in retaliation? Would they seek to liberate Bennipolis from his tyrannical rule?

In a more pleasant note, a meeting between our heirs is acceptable. I can make arrangements for the meeting to occur on Valm's northern most city. Should anything occur between the allies of our respective countries, I suggest that Valm and Aznavor remain neutral against each other in honor of this possible union between our nations. I hope to hear back soon.

Walhart III, Emperor of Valm'

__

The Councilate

'It seems that hoping for a peaceful end to this event is both very close and very far, does it not? In light of Atthenakles, the previously ousted king of Bennipolis leading the forces of Terheridon, we may need to rethink our strategy regarding our reaction. If Atthenakles and the Terheridonians succeed in their invasion, he will no doubt retake his position. This man, whom claimed an entire world and condemned others for the simple act of trade, who brought war upon his own people for his own benefit. A man who the Terheridonians now consider a friend. If he is to be brought into power, it will not only bring Bennipolis back into its overzealous state of political views but will also unite Terheridon against the league. This is unacceptable, as more of Valm's borders shall to left open to a violent regime. Perhaps negotiations with Terheridon can be opened? Promise of lucrative trade between the League and they should they forsake Atthenakles and prevent his rise to power perhaps? I'd like to see it that this man has no right to regain the throne, no matter the cost.

Negotiations may be hindered, with Kalmalo's recent assassination attempts, but swift action is imperative. I'd also like your opinion on Kalmalo's actions. Is public damnation a viable and just action in your eyes? Or shall it only add logs to the fire?

Walhart III, Emperor of Valm'

Now waiting began. As well as some orders for Valm's military branches...
___

TLDR;
In response to recent events, security around the Emperor, his family and council are heightened.
Valm's military is mobilized, with large forces station along the western and southern borders. Defensive measures are increased around these borders.

[Dedonus]

The City-State of Bennipolis
Ireneopagus
The 14th Eponymous Year of Athenakles With Lysander as Interrex
The Ireneopagus, the hill of Irene, the Hellenic goddess of peace, had been the site of countless treaties in the past that had diffused conflicts even worse than the war that was taking place now. Athenakles had set up camp at the foot of the hill, since the Ireneopagus was sacrosanct land. The day before, the Bennipolitans had sent envoys to Athenakles and the Terheridonians. However, once Athenakles and Terheridonians demanded that the Bennipolitans wanted that either Athenakles installed as the new leader of Bennipolis or the land west of the Ireneopagus be surrendered to Terheridon. If they could not accept these terms, then they would continue waging war. Obviously, the Bennipolitan envoys could never accept these terms and therefore left.

Now on that day, one-hundred knights appeared before the Ireneopagus, along with three women of varying ages. First amongst these women was Hermione, Athenakles’ mother, followed by Cynthia, his wife and Hermione’s daughter-in-law, and by Adraändreis, Athenakles’ daughter. All three of them were adored in black garments to show their mournful and destitute position. And when he saw his family, Athenakles started up like a madman from his seat, and he would have embraced her when he ran up to meet his mother, but Hermione showed no love but only hate towards her son.

“Suffer me to learn, before I accept your embrace, whether I have come to an enemy or a son; whether I am a captive or a mother in your camp. Is it this to which long life and an unhappy old age have brought me, that I should behold in you an exile and then an enemy? Could you bring yourself to ravage this country, which gave you birth and reared you? Did not your anger fall from you, no matter how hostile and threatening your spirit when you came, as you passed the boundary? Did it not come over you, when Bennipolis lay before your eyes: ' Within those walls are my home and my gods, my mother, my wife, and my child?' So then, had I not been a mother Bennipolis would not now be besieged! Had I no son I should have died a free woman, in a free land! But I can have nothing now to suffer which could be more disgraceful to you or more miserable for myself; nor, wretched though I am, shall I be so for long: it is these you must consider, for whom, if you keep on, untimely death or long enslavement is in store. For my own part, I cannot bear to live until fortune decides the event of this war. If I cannot now persuade you to make a lasting peace, and so become the benefactor instead of the scourge of the two nations, be well assured that you shall never assail Bennipolis without first passing over the corpse of your mother.”

Even as Hermoine ended her speech, Adraändreis darted toward her father’s knees, taking the position of a suppliant. She unshrouded her face, revealing why Athenakles had insisted on her following the ancient ways. Adraändreis had the most uncanny resemblance to what the Bennipolitans considered to be the image of Bennis, even down to her dark brown eyes and her long dark blonde hair. Both Athenakles and Cynthia feared lest the Bennipolitans would begin to worship her as the human avatar of their city’s chief deity when the people would catch sight of her beauty. They feared that if such would occur that the gods would punish both her and the whole state of Bennipolis. Even the Terheridonian Knights diverted their eyes away from her since they could not bear to watch such a beautiful face waste away from grief.

“Father, what madness has taken hold of you? You know full well that the Bennipolitans would never accept either of your demands. Once your barbarian armies have laid siege onto our goddess’ blessed city, what would you do once she falls? Do you expect us to join you happily over our own conquered people? For if this was your plan, you have thought wrong. We shall suffer the same fate as our people shall. Just as Andromache was led away as a harlot, so shall I. But the real question is to whom shall I be a whore? Shall I be the whore of some Tereridonian prince to whom I shall produce bastard children? Or shall even you yourself claim me as your personal whore? Will you suffer me to endure a fate similar to Oedipus’, namely to give birth to my own brothers and sisters? If you think I shall endure these things, then you do not even know your own daughter. I value my chastity and virginity as one of the most important virtues in my life. If I cannot lose my virginity as a legitimate and honest wife would, I shall die as a virgin.”

Adraändreis lurched out and grabbed the sword that hung at Athenakles’ waist. She would have impaled herself on his blade, had he not restrained her. What men could not have done, women did. The actions of his family had dissolved Athenakles’ iron heart. Therefore, he sent his mother, daughter, and wife back to Bennipolis with their 100-man escort. Later that night, since Athenakles knew he would never survive if he told the Terheridonians that he no longer sought the thrown of Bennipolis, Athenakles took the sword that had almost impaled his daughter early that morn and he nobly committed suicide by the sword.

**Hermoine's speech adapted from Plutarch's Life of Coriolanus 33 and from Livy's Ab urbe condita libri 2.40

[Sadko]

"Terheridon has denounced us in front of the international community."

Kutuk sighed as he walked back and forth in his marble room, the square white table in the middle of it, all his advisors seated tightly.

Things were going bad. The assassination of King Dearheart failed, but it certainly scared him. He said we're disrespectful? Bah, I shall deliver a speech so frightening, he shall momentarily leave Bennipolitan soil. He heightened the security around himself, and specifically designed the balcony to be nigh impossible to be shooting at, nor the balcony you can easily climb without slipping and falling to your death, not speaking about being noticed by guards.

"People of Cheahattro, Subjects of Tribe Slinbt! Terheridon has called us out as backstabbing, or even more, disrespectful." He took a moment to stop for the tension to build up, some annoyed voices moaned over at the back, but the mob waited for him to continue, seemingly interested in this. "Disrespect of what happened, however, simply cannot build up to their barbaric invasion of a sovereign country, killing children, old people, and raping women! They have not yet ascended from the mentality of the medieval ages, and such things are simply not worthy of a modern monarch. For I stand here to say, not only to you, not only to the whole people of the Republi, but also to King Dearheart, and the whole world. If the mindless murdering from the side of Terheridon shall continue, our fully mobilised forces shall attack swiftly, tearing apart Terheridon and it's armies. Immediately return all the forces back to your homeland, or face dire consequences!" the people applauded, but he knew he wasn't done. "Hurray to Bennipolis! We shall pray tonight for our Bennipolitan friends to sleep sound, to have a roof under their heads, and to have a soup in their bowls, for we call to Svarog, let our muskets fire swiftly and straight, and our minds be free of fear and death, HURRAY TO BENNIPOLIS!"

"HURRAY HURRAY HURRAY!"

He emerged back into his room, and then into the war room.

"Take 25,000 recruits, train them a little more, and send them to the border to breath down the Terheridonian necks. Then await further orders."

"Yes sir."

[The Incredible John]

Negotiations between King Phillip Duloire and Duke Ferras Kollin II(Collab between my and Winston Smith)

The Alliance ship had passed beneath the gate that led it into Oceansrock's harbour.From where he was prince Alexander could see the crew members strain tugging at ropes as thick as a mans' arm and knotting them into place, it was good to know that the Alliance was coming to to the capital, prince alexander had secretly harboured doubts tha tthis Dont issue was going to cost Aznavor an ally. He had noticed from the shore that Duke Kollin was arriving with a companion,no doubt his wife. He would have to have to ensure that the blonde beauty that was supposed to find her way into the Duke's bed after the greeting feast would find a different warm bed that cold night. His own might do nicely and he was a generous prince willing to come to the aide of a young woman in need during these cold winter months.

The plans had been laid out, a carpet with rose petals lining the way from the harbour to the Castle where a hundred cooks were putting the finishng touches on the feast. Honey glazed pork could be smelt from here down by the docks and the people of the otwn were looing forward to the fwast too for they knew that all unfisnished food would be shared among the citiens of the capital afterwards instead of letting it rot. With the welcome ceremony ready and the ministers all summoned back to the capital for the meeting the Prince needed only wait for the Duke and his wife to step-off their ship.

The Duke stepped off the ship along with his wife. As he did so, he noticed that even though Azvanor was more to the north than Grudden, the weather was far more pleasant. The smell of sea salt and the cool breeze from the seas filled his nostrils. This wasn't something he was acustomed to. The thick forest of the alliance lands had a different composition of 'air' that the duke was familiar with. The wind of this place seemed lighter and more welcoming, unlike the harsh breeze and the unforgiving blizzard storms that battered the mountain duchies. The duke looked at his wife, who was looking over the horizon. The lady who was almost as old as him, only younger by a few months, stared off and had her thoughts aloft. The duke slid his arm underneath hers and grabbed her attention. When she looked at him, he nudge his head at the welcoming party approuching them. The two stepped out of the way as the crew men unboarded several supplies and good that were for trade. It was common practice, even for ships of nobilities, to transport both passengers and goods. A young man approuched the duke and the duchess. He had many royal symbols on him, displayed throughout his clothing, most of which the duke was not familiar off. Some of them he did recognize, from Martin the Azvanorian ambassador. He shook the man's hand and introduced himself.

"I'am Duke Ferras Kollin II, Duke of Grudden and head of the Alliance of the Four Duchies. This is my wife, Duchess Alanna Kollin. Who might we be speaking to?"

"Welcome my Lord,my Lady." The prince smiled and did a small curteou bow "It is a pleasure to welcome you to Oceansrock. I am Prince Alexander, my father has sent me to escort you personally to the castle whilst he oversees the final touches personally. I hope your voyage was restful. The North sea can be treacherous in winter " said the prince as he led his two guests to the freshly painted carriage that would carry them up from the harbour to the castle.
"Escort! Mount Up!" called the Prince and within seconds the seventy five men who had come with him to to the harbour were all ahorse and were forming a protective formation around the carriage. This was essentially a formality, there would be no attacks on the foreign lords, for the Alliance was a friend of Aznavor and her people. A few moments later the escort began moving and the carriage began its journey up the cobbled streets to the Castle.

As they made their way to the castle, Duke Kollin II observed the coble streets, the stone brick houses and the people passing by. The places wasn't very different from Norfolkke. In fact if it wasn't for the high stone walls that sorrounded the town and the castle on the rocks, we would have confused it with his home town. Light snow was beginning to build up on the streets and on the rooves of the city. The duke let his thoughts wonder and he was again and he was again alone with his mind. Duchess Alanna however, took the opportunity to have a chat with the young prince.

"So tell me Prince Alexander, if you don't mind me asking, how old are might you be? You seem the same age as one of my daughters. You aren't married, aren't you? My daughter Hilda would seem the perfect match for a young man as good looking as yourself."

Prince Alexander was taken aback surprised by the boldness of the southerners and by tyhe compliment. He was known to be more handsome than many young men his age but he did not exactly bask in Altaiya's light either. At 180cm he was slighltly taller than his father. He shared his fathers same dark brown hair but had inherited his mothers' green eyes.
Alexander smiled,
"I'm 21 as of a few weeks yiur grace. My lady is correct I am as of yet still a Bachelor, much to my mothers' despair.I have been formally introduced to many a young lady though my father has always had the final say in the matter. If you should seek progress in thisregard he is the one you must speak to though I must confess to being intrigued by such an idea, you must tell me more of your daughter.

The duchess was delighted that the prince would want to hear more of her daughter. Finding suitors for her daughters became her first priority ever since her daughters grew of age. They were always more obssesed with living with their granduirous lives then settling down. The duchess knew that their extravegent living would not be sustained if they did not find hsbands to settle with. Duke Kollin II picked up on the conversation and decided to join in.

"I see you two are talking about Hilda. Well Prince Duloire, You will never meet such a maiden as fair as my daughter."

Hilda held her head low. She keep her sight towards the ground but occasionally would sneak peaks at the young prince. She knew that the prince would be weary of her and her advances. She knows that either Martin or somebody else must have told him and his father about the reputation of her and her sisters. There was even an old joke passed on by the other people of the alliance that the women of Grudden's appetite for the pleasures of the flesh are stronger than any man left without his mate.

The duke and duchess and the prince continued to talk, mostly about Hilda, as they made their way to the castle.

When the party reached the castle gate King Philip stood upon the drawbridge ready to meet his foreign guests witha broad smile and open arms.

"Father,mother, brother; may I introduce the noble Duke Kollin and Duchess Alanna of Grudden and their radiant daughter Hilda". They have had a long sea journey and have had to endure my company during the climb so I now entrust our guests to your care."

King Phillip led his guests into his clifftop home pausing at every opportunity to show a different view of the city or the sea from one of the castles balconies or gardens. Eventually after showing them the whole castle King Philip announced "As it is getting late it might be best if if you returned to your rooms for freshening up.I hope they will be to your satisfaction.

These will be your rooms, Duke Kollin and Duchess Allanna I have set you up in the room that was formerly my parents'. It has a balcony overlooking the sea and and adjoining room where a bathtub has been fitted. Should you requre warm water do not hesistate t address any passing servant and he or she wil have it seen to. Milady Hilda, you are being put up in my daughters' room for the duration of your stay.Celena is unfortunately not with us at present as she is visiting her aunt in the weterlands. We await your company at dinner in two hours. Tommorrow out work can begin in earnest if your ladyship will be willing to allow me to part you from your husband for a few hours. I have arranged an escort to take the ladies to the Sweetwater Warm springs to the east and to visit the royal stables in the afternoon. In the evening,however, I hope to celebrate our successful meeting with a grand ball in the palace. Now I must leave you get prepared."

"That sounds truly excelent, thank you King Duloire. We are truly blessed to have such a humble host." Duchess Alanna thanked the king and she and her daughter did a curtsey as the king left while the duke bowed. The alliance Dukes may be the only national leaders of royalty to bow before their host. It was an old custom kept from the time that the duchies were under the rule of the Sofon Dominion. It was kept as a sign of respect for the generousity given to them.

That night everything turned out exactly as the Duloire family had intended, the court jester and some hired magicians performed throughout the meal which was itself a success.
A smll troupe of actors kept them entertained after the meal performing the tale of Lyanna and Robert. That night, with bellies full of Aznavori wines and rich foods, having been entertained all parties involved,knowing that a big day of diplomacy was lined up, slept well, except for lady Hilda and Prince Alexander who that very night paid her a visit that they would both remember fondly. When the prince left the company of lady Hilda, some three hours later, he knew that Ambassador martin had told the truth about the daughters of Duke Kollin.

The next day, with almost everyone seeming well rested, the women of both families dissapear on their days plnned journey in the company of the Master of Horse, the Castellan and two dozen royal guards.

"Now at last the days work can begin!" Announced King Phillip to his guest and to his sons whom he had both asked to join in him the negotiations so that they might learn an important lesson in Diplomacy and political strategy. Yesterday's banquet table had been cleared and instead of cups and plates of food, maps of both the new world and the old covered the table. Phillip gestured for the Duke to take a seat next to him. "Let us work well and let us work fast because I have promised our ladies a ball this evening and if its late I wont hear the end of it for weeks!"

"Yes yes, very well. Hilda seemed to be very eager to attend as well." The Duke paused, turned his attention towards Prince Alexander and gave a sly smile. "I could only wonder why."

A modest man might have turned bright red at this but Prince Alexander was not such a man. He smirked, acknowledging the comment with a smile. It amused him that Hildas parents had heard them. He was glad that he had not been approach by lady Alanna,however, it would have been harder to brush off such a comment from a mother. Fortunatwly King Philip had already buried his head in the maps and was oblivious to the verbal joustign that waas going on between his eldest son and his southern friend.

''I suggest we begin with the issue of Dont, as you must be aware Aznavor has decided to remove Otto and his Nacer regime from power. Aznavor could not tolerate a threat to our borders who dared threaten my people. I have met Robert the Freedman who has given assurances that the new republic of Dont led by his Workers Party will remain Aznavors' truest friend and ally.Naturally this means friendship to the Alliance of four duchies for as long as they remain allies with Aznavor. However, I'm a little concerned by the notion of our friends settign up thier government in such precarious times. I beleive that speed is of the essence, if we are to ensure our friends return to the mines and to the field in time for the spring sowing season we must ensure that the conflict ends quickly. It is in neither of our interests to have a nation that is already in debt miss a years' harvests. I was hoping you might be able to speed things along by persuading the remaining politicans to surrender. I imagine the mob might be satisfied by the deaths of only some of those who are currently holding out. The others, the more junior government officials might be allowed to flee east into exile in the Empire of Konzia or the ummm... state of Lascaux? Therefore I would ask your help in securing our eastern borders by ending your support for the government and by encouraging those who remain to surrender. what say you?''

"Let me make it perfectly clear to you, your majesty, that do not support Von Kliebb but neither do we condemn him at the moment. He is more of a trade partner, albiet a very unrealiable one. This financial recession that has hit us will only make him more unrealiable and seeing as his nation is doing poorly economically, I can only guess what the outcome of this events will involve." The Duke stared at the map, looking intensely at the border between Dont and Nollin. "Of course I could not let my men march back in during the winter. The mountain blizzards would the alliance lands would tear the flesh from their bones. As soon as spring arrives, expect them to march back home, to Von Kliebbs liking or not. I cannot pursuade any of their government figures to stand down although. Like many of the parliament members of my nation and those of the other duchies, they are hard-headed and stubborn. I will try if the situation does become dire but I doubt they would listen. After all they do not answer to the alliance anymore, they have their own lives and I doubt they would give up their wealth just because of my word. Please continue good sir."

''In addition there is also the issue of the New World. I must admit I am rather surprised that your colleagues and you have not decided to invest in a colonial expedition yet. Whilst we have made friends with the native Empire I was hoping on having some old World allies near to us on the continent. Do you have any such plans in mind?''

"My colleagues, and I must admit, I too are still a bit indifferent about Aventia. You see, even though many reports of many tales that woulds interest many other men, we of the alliance take far more to be convinced. Having spent our nation's lifetimes hiding in our mountain fortresses have filled much of the duchies public with fear of the outside. That is why we do not venture far from our homes. I suppose the time to change our attitude towards adventorous paths is now but the old duke Hemmlar would take some more convincing before we could do any other expedition."

King phillip sighed, not altogether surprised, for four dukedoms were reknowned for their isolation. He supposed the need for partners in Aventia was not urgent as there were not immediate threats to Aznavors' colonies. He continued
''Finally I must ask you of your intentions regarding the conflict between Bennipolis and the kingdom of Teheridon, I imagine you have heard that the faction being aggressed is my ally . Bennipolis is also massively outnumbered by the invasion force and I cannot allow them to succomb to your southern neighbours.''

"Ahh yes, Bennipolis." The duke now focused his sight at the southern end of Edorinas. Bennipolis, the city-state that expanded its power to its neighboring lands. It reminded him of the tales of old, when the dominion from east swept up the warring tribes and held them under its iron fist. 'Would Bennipolis succumb to the same fate the Sofon dominion did so many years ago' the duke wondered. "The alliance is not one to intervene with the troubles of others unless there is profit involved. Although, If Teheridon does succeed in topling it's neighbor, I could only fear where it would set its eyes next. With a very generous neighbor providing them with their arms, I suppose they would crave up the alliance as soon as they are done with the Bennipolians. Altaiya help us if they do start an invasion." The duke paused and placed his hand on his face. He slowly brushed his trimmed moustash and beard. "We of the alliance would watch what happens with our southern neighbors. If they do start an invasion against the Bennipolians, we would have to intervene, one way or another."

The duke took asked for anything to drink from one of the servants behind them. When asked what he prefered, the duke asked for wine. As he waited for his drink, Kollin tried to spark a casual conversation with the King. The four duchies has always been close friends of the Azvanor, ever since they freed themselves from the dominion. In fact the first priest to preach in alliance lands were from Azvanor. In spite of this however, there had only been few instances where the leaders of their nations ever met. Alliance men tended to stay to themselves, not wanting to deal with the troubles of its neighbors. Perhaps things could and should change now, as being isolated from the world would not benefit them.

"Now that we have concluded some of the finer points of our negotiations, I feel that I must ask, is Prince Alexander married? My daughter Hilda is almost the same age as he is. A union between our great houses would stregthen our ties, don't you think your majesty?"

Prince Alexander turned to his father curious to see his reaction. The proposed match pleased him, Hilda was beautiful and generous. He would be proud to show her off to his friends. Unfortunately his father had other plans.

''No,not yet married, yet, as of this morning.he is betrothed. It is regrettable that such an arrangement would not work although I'm sure that Dominic here would not oppose such a match. He is even of a closer age to your daughter. Dominic may be the younger son but I've always found him to be the more dutiful of my sons until Alexander proves otherwise'' he said looking straight at his heir. What do you think of Duke Kollin's offer Dominic?''

''I. I... I would be honnoured your grace. From what I've seen of your daughter she is truly beautiful and I could wish for no better opportunity to serve my family.'' replied the young prince, clearly put on the spot and demonstrating that he did not share his brothers' natural confidence.

''Well then, it is agreed. Unless my lord of Grudden has anything to say?'' added the king happy before drinking a deep cup of the same wine his guest had enjoyed. He made a note to have a couple of bottles of this vintage hidden on the Duke's barge as a parting gift.

"This is truly a most joyous union, a can only wish the couple the best." Duke Kollin II remarked. The duke could hardly care about which of the king's son his daughter married, as long as they were royalty. 'Hilda would drain this boy the minute they get married.' the duke thought to himself. The young lad was getting into waters he would regret.

''In that case I'm glad we've been so successful, and I look forward to closer ties and more regular meetings between our families. ''

Wollemburg, Nollin

Duke Ollisius stood at the border between Nollin and Dont. Behind him was a carriage and a several of his armed guards. Across him were several hundreds of Dont soldiers, clearly angry at him and they seemed to have a very unsteady trigger finger. He nodded at a man next to him who in turn whistled to several other men behind him. They drove the carriage across the border and stopped in front of several Dont soldiers. The soldiers looked inside the carriage to find Otto Von Klieeb cursing at them and the alliance. The soldiers closed the door and took Von Kliebb away. The men then sent the other carriage they have across the border, inside was a very tired and frustrated dictator who was still confused about what was happening. When the carriage got to the other side, Duke Ollisius opened the door and rode inside, much to Lipeche's surprise.

"Commander Lipeche, I presume your trip was a pleasant one?" The duke asked.

"I presume you and the other lords organized this 'rescue of me and my men." Lipeche II asked back.

"Indeed we did my dear commander, indeed we did. You seem displeased with this." Duke Ollisius answered.

"I could have held the capital if you would have accepted my request for an army to relieve the attack. The Dont rebels were disorganized, they were weak, they were..."

"Enough Lipeche." Duke Ollisius interrupted him. "I'am confident that you would have held Dont and you would have won if the suffice men and equipment were given but we need our armies and our equipment elsewhere."

"That would be where?"

"Warrus or to be more precise, the southern most edge of Warrus. You see Lipeche, we see another opportunity to the south. The Terheridonians are invading the Bennipolians to the south. They've left most of their northern expanses of their lands open for the taking. That is where we need our army."

"The last reports on mine about Terheridon is that they were being supplied by Valm. Can we expect any sort of trouble from them?"

"They are suppliers of arms and like most merchants, they will not intervene with matters unless it should affect them."

"It would affect them, they would loss their most trusted purchaser."

"We would take their place of course as we have plenty of steel but no where to forge them. We could strike a deal with them, one they could and would not refuse."

"Very well then." The dictator said, convinced of the alliance's new plan. "How many do I have under my command and when will we mobilize?"

"Excellent question. You have 20,000 men under your command, half of which would be taken from the Dont loyalist soldiers who are escaping into our lands. They will be re-armed and re-equipped. We are now purchasing cannons from our Azvanor. How many we can expect from them is anybody's guess. If all go smoothly, we can expect the assault to begin by summer or sooner."

The commander looked down at the floor of the carriage, deep in thought. He then looked up at the duke who was smiling at him.

"You will have the honor of leading this charge Lipeche, Imagine the glory to be had from this."

'Yes.' the commander thought to himself. 'Imagine the glory and prestige this would bring.'

GM

The alliance have agreed to the demands of President Freedman and have sent Otto Von Kliebb back to Dont to face trials for his actions. The alliance have also sent messages discreetly to loyalist forces to surrender and submit to the proper authorities. The 20,000 loyalist soldiers who refuse to surrender are now being invited to enter the alliance if they swear fealty to the alliance. Those who do are now being re-armed and retrained. The Alliance soldiers who are now returning home are now being reassigned to post in positions south of Grudden where they could easily march to Warrus.

A message to King Duloire of Azvanor

To King Phillip Duloire, Great lord of Azvanor,

I am delighted to write to you good sir after our most pleasant time together. I, Duchess Alanna and Lady Hilda are still very appreciative of the generosity you have given us. If there is ever anything we could do to assist you, you're family or your kingdom, we shall do our best to oblige. Now I shall propose to you a business proposition that would interest you and benefit us both. The alliance has a lot of iron ore and charcoal that we do not have any place to smelt and forge into armaments we need. Perhaps your nation could provide us a solution to this dilemma. A propose that we would send your metal workers the our ores so that they may make them into steel and forge them into the arms that we need. We could both tax the workers and you could keep some of the steel yourself as payment on our behalf. We hope you agree to this very profitable venture,

May Altaiya watch over you, your family and your people and may she bless you with good fate and luck.

Duke Ferras Kollin II.

[Meth Quokka]

The war had taken a somewhat fortuitous turn of events for the uninvolved Councilate of Arbasses, their concerns regarding Terheridon and their backing of the former Bennipolian idiot Atthenakles had been solved by the winds of fate. A man who’d ruined the economy of the world and brought about a cacophony of slaughter to the land had thrown himself on his own sword, the kind of death the man deserved. But Marcus now had a letter from his friend Emperor Walhart III to consider and what actions he would take regarding it.

Valm

Emperor Walhart III,
It seems the winds of fate have turned in our favour, in case you have not heard the good news Atthenakles has thrown himself on his own sword. As such your concerns about Terheridon’s warmongering no longer exist but there are worrying rumours of mass military movements from the north, seemingly converging on the now unprotected heartland of our buffer state.

I shall still contact Terheridon about joining the Commerce League, our defensive pact would drive off any possible invaders and we can suitably profit from the circumstances of this war. Whilst public damnation is just it will do naught but add to the fires of the war. We must proceed carefully to avoid causing an all out war. As such I will move significant military forces to the New World under secrecy in order to apply pressure on their colonies and hopefully dissuade them from such a war. I’m informed my new war fleet will be ready by the time the departing ships reach the colonies so the ports of Stendmark will be safe. If war comes to it, I can seize the new world colonies of Kamalao and then bring my fleet back and dissuade their home fleets from any action.
Sincerest
Marcus de Happself

Terheridon

King Dearheart,
I am sure that you have heard the reports of hostile movements near your border with cautious eyes and I propose a solution to this problem. I’m sure you have heard of the Commerce League and I move to invite you to join once again; the defensive pact will serve you well should any nation move against as it would be considered as an act of war against the entirety of the Commerce League. The might of five nations will be backing you up. I invite you to consider the proposal and accept it in order to allow us to protect you

Commerce League

I urge the nations of the Commerce League to begin military preparations in light of the recent events that have occurred. Whilst I do not wish to bring war to our lands I fear we must attempt to protect the sovereignty of Terheridon as it is the buffer state between us and the nations of the south who seek our demise. Prepare your soldiers, tighten your borders and be ready to stand with us should it come so.
Many thanks,
Marcus de Happself

He then set about signing a number of orders, requisitions and warrants. 25,000 Men were moved to cover the Southern boundaires, keeping a keen eye on the borders in light on recent world tension. One thing was for sure, this war would not spill over into Arbasses, at least not if Marcus could do anything about it.

GM

SOTL x 4, Schooner x 4 and 10,000 Regulars are sent over to Wardensfall under the most secrecy possible.
$2 Billion invested into coastal artillery and defences for the port of Wardensfall.

[Darthpaul]

Aventia was quiet. too quiet perhaps. Rumours from Aznavor merchants made their way into the street and rumours of the street made their way to the very doors of the Palace. Rumours of War in Edoniras. Supposedly some southern Kingdom had waged war on another and because of this all the nations of the world felt entitled to some opinion on the matter. Even the Empires' ally Anavor apparently felt invovled by the affairs of the two warring states. This was surprising but reassuring in a sense that it meant that Emperor Si Fu could count on his ally should enemies of the Empire of Khan ever seek to trample on Imperial soil. This was something the Emperor was very keen to avoid. Nevertheless should war come to the Empire his armies had long been readied, his men had seen the fire-weapons of the west and knew of their weaknesses. Thick oak and hide pavises had been built for weeks by thousands of carpenters to protect the Empire's crossbowmen from the impact of these weapons and thick leather cuirasses had been handed out to even the lowest of Empires' forces. Si Fu desired peace but was ready for war.

It was on an inspection of his military might that the Emperor was reminded of the words of sage Xin To, a monk turned warrior turned general. Xin To had dwelt on the terrors of war and emphasized that the majority of suffering would be incurred by the invaded nation and that the best way to prevent the suffering of ones' own people was to take the first step. In short that a good offensive was the best way of defending ones subjects from a belligerent neighbor. And the Edonirans were belligerent, as the southern war demonstrated. In a turn that surprised almost all but his closest councillors. Emperor Si Fu announced after completing the inspection of his Imperial units that the generals had been summoned to the capital not only for the purposes of parading their units but for the the purpose of securing the Empires' borders. Early that night under the cover of darkness 50,000 men would march over the border into the Counciliate's lands. Five hundred mounted Samurai would first fan out and ride down all known sentries,border officials and patrols before 15,000 swordsmen,15,000 spearmen and 25,000 repeating crossbowmen would flood into enemy lands destroying farms, compounds and villages before moving to the cities whilst staying away from the coasts and well out of range of the enemy's powerful ships. Generals and lower commanders had each been allocated targets, particular farms or unwalled communities to take. No doubt some officers would meet resistance from some foolhardy settlers but they were poorly coordianted and undisciplined. Emperor Si Fu knew that overwhelming numbers combined with the element of surprise meant that by the dawn all targets would be overrun. Men were slaughtered as youths who had resisted but women,children and the elderly were unharmed. The Emperor had taken great pains to ensure not being seen as a barbaric neighbour. Non-combatants were treated with respect and taken to the nearest imperial cities of Kok Tai and Foo Mei and were well treated as prisoners. However, unless the Arbassi people proved to be cooperative Emperor Si Fu feared he must do what he must and kill his hostages. They had refused his divine mandate once perhaps the destruction of their outlying farmland and the fact that their elderly and their wives were in the hands of the Empire might make them reconsider the issue of fealty.

When the dawn broke and the men of Arbasses stood atop their mighty city walls they would look on their lands and despair. By the morning whole communities had been turned into pillars of smoke rising to the heavenly Emperor,harvests were taken from storehouses and added to army supplies, fields were sown with salt,fishing communities were looted and the souls of hundreds of Arbassian farmers and citizens had joined their ancestors in the sky. Only the mighty settler cities and the coastal regions where enemy ships were seen had been spared from the nights carnage. Within two weeks twin lines of trenches and small palisades would be built around these settlements well out of range of the enemy. Preparations for siege had been made and so it would be the turn of the settlers to have sleepless nights.