EncodedError

Ashes of the Old World (A Dieselpunk Nation Roleplay)

It was a windy morning in the port city of Vaisung. Many consider the city to be Ocreau’s gateway to the Verronto sea, which made it a hub for trade within the nation. Vaisung is the the largest city in the division of Mar, and was once the seat of power of an alliance of city states. Now it is the 4th largest city in all of Ocreau and home to a thriving trading industry. The residents here still remember the power their city once held, and some wish that their city had more impact on the politics of the nation.

A vessel belonging to one of these companies was docked in the harbour. Crates of Ocrese pepper and other spices were loaded, one by one, onto the back of the ship while the captain on the vessel supervised. One of the crew approached the captain, asking them to review the plotted course.

Captain Sari Coste, like many in her trade, was not happy about the recent suggestions by the Ocrese government. The extra distance they would have the travel would cost them both time and money. However, the concerns around the violence between Acrad and Hastur were understandable. Everyone knew that Ocreau wanted no part of that war.

The detour would add an extra 3 days to their journey to Lieria, one of the Verronto Confederation states. The captain approved the new course as the last crate was loaded onto the ship. They would leave in a few hours.

---

Concerns about trade disruption still echoed throughout the Ocrese government. The People’s House debated how best to minimise the impacts of the Acrad-Hasturian war. But, the major issue stopping any consensus from forming was the unknowns surrounding what Acrad intended to do.

“Perhaps then, we should contact Acrad about whether or not they intend to battle in the Verronto Sea?” said a member from the Druidic party, a minor party concerned with magic rights.

The suggestion was backed by the Democratic Unionist Party and their allies in coalition, the Labour Party. The People’s House called upon the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to draft a letter to the government of Acrad.

@Roby6Com

Hider

To the Honourable General Commander of the Republic of Acrad,

We bring good tidings from the north. It has come to our attention that the hostilities between the Republic and the Divine Empire of Hastur may have ramifications for life in the Verronto Sea.

The Commonwealth believes that any operations undertaken in the waters of the sea would have dire consequences on trade. We ask that the Republic carefully considers any unintended effects of any military activity in the region.

Kindest regards,
Lady Maria Ira II, Governor General of the Commonwealth of Ocreau

The letter was passed onto the Legislative Council where, after a few minor alterations and some extensive consultation with a translator, it was signed by Governor General Ira and handed off to a waiting diplomat to be sent to the nation of Acrad.

---

“... this morning the government sent a message to Acrad asking what its intentions are about the Verronto Sea. The uncertainty surrounding this issue has caused many trading companies to suffer losses in the stock market” said the familiar voice of the radio announcer

“We interviewed some of those affected by the latest recommendations by the government. One trading ship captain said, ‘I understand the danger, but the alterations to our route will delay the delivery by up to three days’.”

“A separatist group in Mar have protested the recommendations. More to come…”

Ashes of the Old World (A Dieselpunk Nation Roleplay)

An aging Goliath man sat at his desk, wearing a neatly pressed uniform that gave away his rank of Admiral. He was signing the various forms and documents that required his attention, but his mind was not on his paperwork. In light of the recent international tensions, he was awaiting orders from the Ministry of Defence. He barely looked up from his papers when there was a knock at the door to his office.

A messenger stepped in, saluted and placed a telegram on the desk. The messenger stood at attention as they spoke, “Admiral Shau, sir! An urgent telegram for you, sir!”

“Dismissed” the admiral replied. Admiral Relâ Shau was the head of the Ocrese Merchant Navy. The telegram gave recommendations on how to prevent Ocrese ships from being caught between Acrad and Hastur’s hostilities. Admiral Shau sighed, it was just as he expected. Ships were to clearly display the Ocrese flag while at sea and were to consider shifting routes further north to avoid any locations that could host naval battles. He issued the warnings to both the merchant navy and any civilian watercraft.

---

Meanwhile, in the People’s House, the representatives discussed the issue of maintaining Ocrese trade. With the tensions between Acrad and Hastur at a fever pitch, the Council was concerned about the impact of trade routes in the Verronto sea.

“...and so I propose that we look for trade that would not be impacted by the potential Acrad-Hastur war.” spoke the minister of trade, Cahaya Lai a member the Democratic Unionist Party

“And, who do you suggest we trade with?” replied a member of the opposition

“Both Fenice and Avalia can be accessed over land. We could strike a trade deal with them and transport the goods by rail. The Theconian Alliance and the state to the east could also be trading partners, but the mountains make it difficult to transport goods eastward” said Prime Minister Aran Cerang.

“It would be best to have Fenice on our side, they would be the ideal buffer between us and a recently aggressive Acrad” said another member of the Democratic Unionist Party.

“The house will now hold a vote on Minister Lai’s bill” said the speaker of the house. There was a cacophony as the different members of the house voted on the bill. In the end, the ayes won.

“The bill will now be passed to the National Legislative Council for consultation.”

---

The Council set to work quickly, getting translators and creating drafts. The process took several hours and involved a lot of wasted paper. The final messages, worded as sweetly as saccharine, would be sent by telegram.

@Skepic

Message

Dear our friends to the north,

In this time of uncertainty, the Commonwealth of Ocreau seeks to increase trade with the Republic of Avalia. To sure up trade in the Verronto Sea, away from any possible site of contention between the powers of Acrad and Hastur. Our nation has much to offer, like spices and silver.

We ask that you consider our trading proposal.

Warmest regards,
Lady Maria Ira II, Governor General of the Commonwealth of Ocreau

@Willy Vereb

Hider

Dear our friends in Fenice,

In light of the recent hostilities to the south, the Commonwealth of Ocreau is looking to strengthen trade around the Verronto sea. We kindly seek to establish greater trade with the Divine Dominion of Venice.

We ask that you consider our proposal.

Warmest regards,
Lady Maria Ira II, Governor General of the Commonwealth of Ocreau

---

“Our top story tonight, the tensions between Acrad and Hastur have reached a fever pitch. The Commonwealth has issued warnings to all watercraft in the Verronto Sea.” came the voice of the radio announcer

“In other news, reports indicate that the government wishes to increase trade with Fenice and Avalia.”

“Our final story, there has been some civil unrest in the division of Mar. Authorities believe that it may be connected to a small separatist group in the area.”

“Now, the Ereaux City Orchestra with Soun's Symphony number 6…”

Ashes of the Old World (A Dieselpunk Nation Roleplay)

In the great city of Ereaux lies the new National Council Chambers, a building constructed of brick and concrete in a neoclassical design. It had been completed 15 years ago to replace the outdated old building, which had been turned into a museum dedicated to the history of the Commonwealth. Inside this building, the gears of the government turn.

“...and thus begins today’s meeting of the National Legislative Council. Lady Ira, you have the floor”

Lady Marie Ira II, the Governor General and leader of the Commonwealth of Ocreau, stood in the centre of the chamber to address the Council. In her hand she clutched a stack of papers, reports from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, copies of which had been handed out to each of the governors currently present.

“Thank you Mr. Speaker” spoke the tall woman who lead the Commonwealth of Ocreau. She was a mostly human woman, although she proudly spoke of how her grandmother was a Goliath. “My office has received word of a possible escalation of tensions between the Republic of Arcad and the Empire of Hastur. I believe this requires our attention, less this hostility expand northwards.”

“And do you believe it will?” asked a greying man, a governor of one of the northern districts.

“Not necessarily.” Marie Ira II paused for a moment, “The People’s House has advised us that it believes our best course of action is to not participate. I think that if we continue to trade with both the Republic and the Empire, then they would not be inclined to threaten us.”

“We could even use this to our advantage. Both countries will require resources, and who better to buy them off than our proud Commonwealth?” spoke a young woman.

“We could increase the number of trades of fish and spices” said the Governor General, “But, I will not see us become arms dealers.”

“What is the proposal?” said the speaker of the council

“We should remain neutral for now” Ira replied

The speaker concluded with the traditional vote tallying, the proposal was passed with only 1 dissenting vote.

“Next order of business, the agricultural subsidies passed by the People’s House. Prime Minister Cerang has overseen the bill designed to increase farming output in an effort to increase food security within the Commonwealth. Are there any objections to this bill?”

The bill was put up as the subject of debate, it was aimed to increase the production of food across the Commonwealth for purposes of trade and food security. It would do this by subsidising the production of rice, fruit, and spices. After a while the bill was passed without amendments.

---

“... Further agricultural subsidies have been passed by the Parliament aimed at suring up food supplies and increasing trade output. Farmers around the Commonwealth have welcomed the news” crackled radios across Ocreau.

“In international news, the government has promised to remain neutral in light of the recent hostilities between Arcad and Hastur” the newsreader continued, “Reports suggest that the public have concerns about possible conflict between the two nations. We will keep you updated on this developing story.”

“Now to the weather, clear skies are predicted over much of central Ocreau…”

Ashes of the Old World (A Dieselpunk Nation Roleplay)

((Updated flag & flag on claim))



Nation Name: Commonwealth of Ocreau

Type of Government: Union of Republics

Head of Government:
Lady Marie Ira II representative of the division of Rina, Governor General of the National Legislative Council
Aran Cerang, Prime Minister of the People's House

Economy:
The Commonwealth’s chief exports include iron and silver ore mined in the nation’s mountains, although the amount exported has been steadily decreasing in favour of more sustainable ventures. Other important industries include the agricultural sector, which mostly produces spices and paper. There have been some attempts to create a larger tourism sector but the results have been mixed. The Commonwealth often imports food, glass and other raw materials.

Unique Technologies:
The pride and joy of the Ocrese Commonwealth is the Grand Railway. The Grand Railway is a large railway network connecting every town throughout the country. It travels at high velocity, powered by magically augmented engines. The network has been equipped with large underground tunnels that go through the mountains.

The railway tunnels are also connected to the war bunkers. This extensive system of bunkers that could shelter the majority of the population should the country come under threat. In addition, some of the trains have been outfitted with artillery that could be sent as a defence in times of war.

Primary Species: Humans, Goliaths, Half-Goliaths, and a notable Orc minority

Population: Approximately 13.5 million people

Culture:
The people of Ocreau had to learn to survive in the arid rain shadow of the mountains that make up most of the country. This lead to the formation of many festivals and rites designed to bring about good harvests. The climate also encouraged the use of many different spices in Ocrese cuisine, several of which were considered to be so valuable that the tribes fought over their sources long ago. The people value resilience and an even temperament. There is a strong focus on family and on the local surroundings.

The most common spoken language is Ocrese, which is a creole of the old languages of the human settlers and the languages of the Goliath. Orcish is often spoken by the Orc minority in the south.

Religion and Other Beliefs:
Many of the religious Ocrese combine the beliefs of various world religions with traditional local customs, forming a hybrid belief system with a basis in the world religion but festivals and customs from indigenous sources. Several still adhere solely to these customs which encourage the worship of spirits at shrines, many of which are centuries old.

Location/Territories:

Map

Area no. 20

The country is split into 17 divisions, with the capital of Ereaux being located in the division of Rina which is in the mountains.

Climate:
The climate of the Commonwealth is generally dry and arid, with the eastern coast having a warm climate with lower than average rainfall. The land near the base of the mountains is fairly fertile and is fed by snowmelt. The mountains get quite cold, with the highest mountains having permanent snow caps.

Military:
The Commonwealth has a decent defensive force with several static and mobile defenses. Remnants of fortresses built during the warring states period have been retrofitted to serve as more modern bases. These are mostly found near the coast as the largest inland border is protected by mountainous terrain.

The army consists mostly of infantry with support from armoured vehicles built using the iron found in the mountains. Although the army is hardly the most advanced on the continent, it makes up for it with training and discipline.

The navy has been built up over the centuries as sea trade was vital to the fledgling Commonwealth. The nation has been investing in warships and its coast guard. It also has a large merchant navy. The navy has been researching aerial combat, but not much has come of it so far.

Magic Prevalence/Usage:
Magic in the Commonwealth was once viewed with awe, many magi would act as village elders and would be vital advisers to the ancient leaders. The local magics are druidic in origin, focussing on nature and spiritual magic. Now, magic is regulated by a government ministry in an effort to keep the peace in the country. It is taught by schools, many of which are publicly-owned. Despite this, magical abilities are still fairly rare and those with them are greatly respected.

Magic also plays a role in festivals and rites, and is used to bring about several different effects. For example, a rite might be used to encourage a good harvest or to drive away evil spirits. Traditional talismans are also used as sources of easily accessible magic.

History/ Background Info:
The lands that are now called Ocreau were once inhabited by 10 different Goliath tribes. These tribes were mostly confined to the mountains and were largely isolated to the outside world. Not much is known about this period as much of the Goliath’s oral history was lost to the ages. It is widely believed that these tribes lived largely separate from each other. Archaeological evidence suggests that there when the tribes did meet, it often ended in bloodshed.

Centuries later, the first human settlers arrived in Ocreau. The humans mostly settled the coastal wetlands as these provided convenient sources of food. It wasn’t long before the two peoples met each other. Old writings made by the humans suggest that while many of the Goliath tribes were open to trade, there were a few that fought the humans over land.

This period of history continued until the founding of Qae, the first Ocrese city-state. The first warlord of Qae rose up and conquered the surrounding tribes. Qae was soon followed by other states, ushering in the Warring States period of Ocrese history. During this period, the first Orcish settlers appeared and formed their own city state in the south of the country. Approximately 21 states were formed during this time.

This period ended with the formation of the 17 modern states. The end of the warring states period forged three uneasy alliances that would shape modern Ocreau. The first alliance was under the division of Qae which controlled the northern mountains. The second was under Rina, which controlled the southern mountains. The third was under Mar, which controlled the central coast.

These three alliances were constantly trying to undermine each other, but there was very few outright wars between them. Each knew that a war with its neighbours could spell the end of their de facto state. The three was finally unified into the Commonwealth of Ocreau with the leadership of Ira of Rina. Ira saw the power of the neighbouring countries and saw that only a unified Ocreau could hope to survive. As the warlords of the constituent divisions and the leaders of the alliances saw the expansion of Fenice and worried that it threatened to take the lands upon, they met in the city of Ereaux and forged the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth was officially formed 150 years ago with the founding of the National Legislative Council, which took a representative of each of the states (now called divisions). All of the divisions elected their representative democratically, while some still retained ancient dynasties.

Although the eruption initially had little effect on the Commonwealth, other than some trade disruption, the following years of ash-induced darkness had a devastating effect on the agricultural industry. The government set out drastically subsidising farms and reforming agricultural laws so that they would not starve. The famine did cause a drop in population and some of the more agricultural-focussed divisions required grants to prevent bankruptcy.

Once the ash cleared, the agricultural industry began to recover and Ocreau saw a boom in the spice industry. Lady Maria Ira II, who is distantly related to Ira of Rina, became the 71st Governor General of the Commonwealth 2 years ago.

Nation Relations:

Hider

Ocreau generally has little interest in the politics of the nations around it, except when their decisions have effects on the Commonwealth. They generally take a somewhat defensive approach, but will trade quite happily with those around them.

Republic of Acrad: Ocreau is aware of the Republic’s existence and wishes to pursue trade deals with them, mostly in oil.

Andria: Ocreau is interested in trade with Andria.

Republic of Avalia: Ocreau trades in spices, and as long as Avalia wishes to buy spices then relations between the two will be favourable. Ocreau has recently shown some interest in the uses of Hydrium.

Divine Dominion of Fenice: While Ocreau generally wishes to trade with the Dominion, they are wary of their territories around the globe and privately disapprove of their acquisitions. Some Ocrese fear that Ocreau may, one day, become a colony of the Dominion

Divine Empire of Hastur: The Hasturian religion has a few followers in the Commonwealth and Ocreau tends to remain silent on matters of the Emperor and the Empire. It is wary of the sheer size and strength that the Empire wields. There is some trade between the two.

Ashes of the Old World (A Dieselpunk Nation Roleplay)

@Skepic I've finished my application now, I added some extra to the backstory to explain what my nation was doing during the time after the eruption

Ashes of the Old World (A Dieselpunk Nation Roleplay)

Nation Name: Commonwealth of Ocreau

Type of Government: Union of Republics

Head of Government:
Lady Marie Ira II representative of the division of Rina, Governor General of the National Legislative Council
Aran Cerang, Prime Minister of the People's House

Economy:
The Commonwealth’s chief exports include iron and silver ore mined in the nation’s mountains, although the amount exported has been steadily decreasing in favour of more sustainable ventures. Other important industries include the agricultural sector, which mostly produces spices and paper. There have been some attempts to create a larger tourism sector but the results have been mixed. The Commonwealth often imports food, glass and other raw materials.

Unique Technologies:
The pride and joy of the Ocrese Commonwealth is the Grand Railway. The Grand Railway is a large railway network connecting every town throughout the country. It travels at high velocity, powered by magically augmented engines. The network has been equipped with large underground tunnels that go through the mountains.

The railway tunnels are also connected to the war bunkers. This extensive system of bunkers that could shelter the majority of the population should the country come under threat. In addition, some of the trains have been outfitted with artillery that could be sent as a defence in times of war.

Primary Species: Humans, Goliaths, Half-Goliaths, and a notable Orc minority

Population: Approximately 13.5 million people

Culture:
The people of Ocreau had to learn to survive in the arid rain shadow of the mountains that make up most of the country. This lead to the formation of many festivals and rites designed to bring about good harvests. The climate also encouraged the use of many different spices in Ocrese cuisine, several of which were considered to be so valuable that the tribes fought over their sources long ago. The people value resilience and an even temperament. There is a strong focus on family and on the local surroundings.

The most common spoken language is Ocrese, which is a creole of the old languages of the human settlers and the languages of the Goliath. Orcish is often spoken by the Orc minority in the south.

Religion and Other Beliefs:
Many of the religious Ocrese combine the beliefs of various world religions with traditional local customs, forming a hybrid belief system with a basis in the world religion but festivals and customs from indigenous sources. Several still adhere solely to these customs which encourage the worship of spirits at shrines, many of which are centuries old.

Location/Territories:

Map

Area no. 20

The country is split into 17 divisions, with the capital of Ereaux being located in the division of Rina which is in the mountains.

Climate:
The climate of the Commonwealth is generally dry and arid, with the eastern coast having a warm climate with lower than average rainfall. The land near the base of the mountains is fairly fertile and is fed by snowmelt. The mountains get quite cold, with the highest mountains having permanent snow caps.

Military:
The Commonwealth has a decent defensive force with several static and mobile defenses. Remnants of fortresses built during the warring states period have been retrofitted to serve as more modern bases. These are mostly found near the coast as the largest inland border is protected by mountainous terrain.

The army consists mostly of infantry with support from armoured vehicles built using the iron found in the mountains. Although the army is hardly the most advanced on the continent, it makes up for it with training and discipline.

The navy has been built up over the centuries as sea trade was vital to the fledgling Commonwealth. The nation has been investing in warships and its coast guard. It also has a large merchant navy. The navy has been researching aerial combat, but not much has come of it so far.

Magic Prevalence/Usage:
Magic in the Commonwealth was once viewed with awe, many magi would act as village elders and would be vital advisers to the ancient leaders. The local magics are druidic in origin, focussing on nature and spiritual magic. Now, magic is regulated by a government ministry in an effort to keep the peace in the country. It is taught by schools, many of which are publicly-owned. Despite this, magical abilities are still fairly rare and those with them are greatly respected.

Magic also plays a role in festivals and rites, and is used to bring about several different effects. For example, a rite might be used to encourage a good harvest or to drive away evil spirits. Traditional talismans are also used as sources of easily accessible magic.

History/ Background Info:
The lands that are now called Ocreau were once inhabited by 10 different Goliath tribes. These tribes were mostly confined to the mountains and were largely isolated to the outside world. Not much is known about this period as much of the Goliath’s oral history was lost to the ages. It is widely believed that these tribes lived largely separate from each other. Archaeological evidence suggests that there when the tribes did meet, it often ended in bloodshed.

Centuries later, the first human settlers arrived in Ocreau. The humans mostly settled the coastal wetlands as these provided convenient sources of food. It wasn’t long before the two peoples met each other. Old writings made by the humans suggest that while many of the Goliath tribes were open to trade, there were a few that fought the humans over land.

This period of history continued until the founding of Qae, the first Ocrese city-state. The first warlord of Qae rose up and conquered the surrounding tribes. Qae was soon followed by other states, ushering in the Warring States period of Ocrese history. During this period, the first Orcish settlers appeared and formed their own city state in the south of the country. Approximately 21 states were formed during this time.

This period ended with the formation of the 17 modern states. The end of the warring states period forged three uneasy alliances that would shape modern Ocreau. The first alliance was under the division of Qae which controlled the northern mountains. The second was under Rina, which controlled the southern mountains. The third was under Mar, which controlled the central coast.

These three alliances were constantly trying to undermine each other, but there was very few outright wars between them. Each knew that a war with its neighbours could spell the end of their de facto state. The three was finally unified into the Commonwealth of Ocreau with the leadership of Ira of Rina. Ira saw the power of the neighbouring countries and saw that only a unified Ocreau could hope to survive. As the warlords of the constituent divisions and the leaders of the alliances saw the expansion of Fenice and worried that it threatened to take the lands upon, they met in the city of Ereaux and forged the Commonwealth.

The Commonwealth was officially formed 150 years ago with the founding of the National Legislative Council, which took a representative of each of the states (now called divisions). All of the divisions elected their representative democratically, while some still retained ancient dynasties.

Although the eruption initially had little effect on the Commonwealth, other than some trade disruption, the following years of ash-induced darkness had a devastating effect on the agricultural industry. The government set out drastically subsidising farms and reforming agricultural laws so that they would not starve. The famine did cause a drop in population and some of the more agricultural-focussed divisions required grants to prevent bankruptcy.

Once the ash cleared, the agricultural industry began to recover and Ocreau saw a boom in the spice industry. Lady Maria Ira II, who is distantly related to Ira of Rina, became the 71st Governor General of the Commonwealth 2 years ago.

Nation Relations:

Hider

Ocreau generally has little interest in the politics of the nations around it, except when their decisions have effects on the Commonwealth. They generally take a somewhat defensive approach, but will trade quite happily with those around them.

Republic of Acrad: Ocreau is aware of the Republic’s existence and wishes to pursue trade deals with them, mostly in oil.

Andria: Ocreau is interested in trade with Andria.

Republic of Avalia: Ocreau trades in spices, and as long as Avalia wishes to buy spices then relations between the two will be favourable. Ocreau has recently shown some interest in the uses of Hydrium.

Divine Dominion of Fenice: While Ocreau generally wishes to trade with the Dominion, they are wary of their territories around the globe and privately disapprove of their acquisitions. Some Ocrese fear that Ocreau may, one day, become a colony of the Dominion

Divine Empire of Hastur: The Hasturian religion has a few followers in the Commonwealth and Ocreau tends to remain silent on matters of the Emperor and the Empire. It is wary of the sheer size and strength that the Empire wields. There is some trade between the two.

Grove

@Sudkurve, as Grnmachine said, take your time. I understand that players get busy from time to time. Thanks for letting us know.

Grove

“We have been searching for ages but we haven’t found anything. We try to hold onto the hope that something, even the littlest hint, might be found. But it is hard to maintain morale when your friends and family continue to vanish without a trace.” Rowan said sadly.

“Maybe today will be better” Skarjaw said. Rowan didn’t answer, he just sighed in response.

---

“With our current lack of information” Leo said to Markus and Seymour, “we should start by interviewing the locals. We could try researching the people who vanished, where they were last seen, that sort of thing.”

There were many questions around the town, but no answers yet. Leo’s mind was filling with thoughts of the questions he could ask. Who had gone missing? Where were they last seen? He finished off the last of his soup, it was going to be a busy day.

Rowan quickly turned to look at Leo, having noticed that he was talking about the disappearances. “News of the disappearances must be travelling then” he said to himself.

“You are welcome to help” Rowan said to the three would-be investigators, “I’m sure that most of the searchers would be able to answer some of your questions.”

“Well, there’s no time to lose” Leo said as he stood up.

---

Outside the tavern, the residents of Rosashire were waking up and starting their daily routines. Some people wandered around the town square, the search party were gathering at the monument. The shops were just starting to open, although there were no customers quite yet.

The Wrinkle in the World

Username: EncodedError
Name: Cedric Hawthorne

Gender: Male
Age: 27
Race: Human

Appearance: Cedric stands at about 184cm (about 6’) tall. He appears fit and strong. His olive skin is tanned and is mostly free from scarring, except for one on the outside of his right forearm. His face is clean shaven and has a youthful appearance. Two almond-shaped eyes with light brown irises sit either side of a angular nose. His hair is dark brown, almost black, and is long enough to mostly cover his ears. His fringe reaches his eyebrows and is swept to the right.

He wears a long-sleeve, off-white linen shirt with a beige trim. His trousers are a dark maroon colour. On his head he wears a grey cloth hood, this hood is usually left down and doesn’t provide any protection from anything other than the sun. Around his neck is a small pendant in the shape of a leaf. The pendant is made from polished copper and is attached to a fine iron chain. Over this he wears his armour.

Archetype: Cedric is a guard and has been trained in the use of pole arms and swords. Working at a druid temple has taught him a little about druidic magics. He is also skilled in the identification of plants, having tended the gardens where the druids grew their reagents.

Armour:

Guard’s Scalemail Tunic:
A leather tunic covered in large, overlapping scales. On the front and back of the torso these scales are long rectangles. On the sides and sleeves these scales are smaller and leaf-shaped. There are two circular plates on the shoulders which have small spikes in their centres. The sleeves stretch to just past Cedric’s elbows. The hem of the tunic is cut at an angle, so that the left side reaches to the middle of his shin and the right side reaches just past his knee. Around the middle of the tunic is a wide leather belt with a buckle similar to, but smaller than, the scales on his shoulders.

Guard’s Scalemail Padding:
A pair of leather gauntlets and a pair of leather boots covered in small scales similar to those on the tunic. The gauntlets have a pair of leather gloves attached to them. The gauntlets only have scales on the outside of the glove and along the forearm, the inside of the glove is just plain leather. On the outside of the forearm there is a bronze blade that reaches toward the elbow. This is just decoration and isn’t actually sharp. Both the gauntlets and the boots have worn slightly, but they seem to be well maintained.

Weapons:

Temple Halberd:
A simple, but sharp, axehead combined with a wicked steel spike sit upon a wooden pole roughly 2.4m (7’ 10”) long. On the back of the axehead is a short metal hook. The top of the pole, where it meets the steel head, is carved in such a way so that the wood looks like it is twisted. On the other end is a metal cap.

Bronze Shortsword:
A fine shortsword made from bronze. It is about 70 cm (2’ 3.5”) long. The handle has a short crossbar above it made of iron. The handle itself is wrapped in leather with small iron studs going down the sides and is capped by a bronze point.

Grove

((Happy New Year!))

The faint sunlight coming through the window announced the new day. Leo began to stir from a dreamless slumber. Slowly, his eyes opened. There were lingering droplets of water clinging to the window from some early morning rain. Despite the rain, it appeared that the weather had cleared somewhat from yesterday, small patches of blue sky could be found between the dreary grey clouds. Leo stood up and rubbed his eyes. He took a deep breath, gathered his belongings and left the room.

Downstairs, Skarjaw was busy wiping the bar with some cloth. The pub was practically empty, every seat was free and every table was clear. Nuala was behind the bar, putting cleaned tankards on some shelves on the back wall. Leo sat down on a stool at the bar.

“Good morning” he said sleepily

Skarjaw grunted in response.“Do you want something to eat? The meal comes with the room” he said.

Leo’s stomach growled, “Yes, what do you have?”

“Lentil stew and bread”

A bowl of stew was placed in front of Leo, along with a piece of stale bread. The meal was filling, but ultimately tasteless. As he ate, Leo was reminded that today was the day that the investigation would begin. There would be much to do, people to ask and theories to craft.

The door of the bar creaked open and a human man walked in. He was of average height and a bit scrawny. He walked quickly up to the bar, mostly ignoring Leo. The man began to speak to Skarjaw.

“Morning”

Skarjaw didn’t reply, but Nuala greeted him, “Morning Rowan.”

“There’s another search happening today,” the man paused for a moment, “none of us are feeling very optimistic though.”