In a desperate, end-of-the-world attempt to come up with something that will help save the people of Arx when Azazel and his Abyssal share army come for the Thinnest Point, Medeia gathers the best magical and alchemical minds she can think of to do something Medeia /doesn't/ do: make poison.

Having had luck in the past - before crossing the threshold! - with creating targeted tools against specific threats (like Thornweave Fire and the talismans that protected against the Horned God's magic), she sets out to create something that will specifically harm Abyssal beings. She's not even sure what this is going to take. But she's going to TRY. The blood of Godsworn? Nethicite? She'll clear-cut her gardens if it helps.

After some discussion about collateral harm and intentionality, the hope is that, if successful, the poison should be something that can be coated on the weapons of defenders, perhaps coated upon their armor, and set in strategic traps (near the Thinnest Point?) that can be deployed to great effect without potentially harming allies.

Mabelle is not foreign to experimenting with all those elements. Metals with primum, odd plants, gemstones, her own blood and the time she spent in the Lyceum. Time to mix and try not to die of the explosion.

Galatea's skill at alchemy has few equals. Be it poison, unnatural herbs created during the Platinum Shift, nethicite, or even the blood of the faithful, there are plenty of avenues to take in research. The ritual (revelation 52) of Striking Through the Mirror contains certain techniques for targeted strikes against individual demons, but perhaps it might also provide clues as to more general patterns for substances that threatened demonic lives.

Thea knows about alchemy. A lot about alchemy. Poison. A lot about that too. She will use her knowledge as well as a touch of something else to help aide in the the cause. Thea has her own special additives afterall.

Eirene is an expect occultist. Even without her magic she knows what she's doing with rituals, as well as having knowledge of alchemy. So trying to craft something which harms the enemy isn't too farfetched.

Poison is not Mirk's specialty, but he's worked on the Thornweave poison before, and he helped bind Azazel as well, once upon a time (Action 2936 & Clue 2925), and he knows the rite to hide knowledge from the Despite (Revelation 34). So he draws on that pool of knowledge to attempt to devise something, anything that can harm Azazel. He's in a supporting role, providing advise and knowledge, and perhaps some primum towards a shared ritual, if he needs to.

If it weakens their enemy, even slightly? It's worth it.

So while Mia is no alchemist, she does have an extensive knowledge of the occult. Even more than that, she has a small orichalcum figurine that has long acted a shield against the Abyssal entities controlled by her father, protecting her from their sight and their assault. While she won't offer it up as an ingredient, surely it can provide some helpful insight through.... uhhh... inversion! Yes, inversion. If her figurine protects the wearer from the Abyss, then surely the inversion of some of its properties might help a person attack the Abyss. That makes sense. That totally makes sense. She'll just be standing waaaaaaaay over there while the alchemists test this theory out.

Aco will help, she's only soso with Alchemy but she's got a lot to controbute to a poison. Especially when armed with a bit of magic.

Lianne has spent the majority of her adult life studying the Abyss and its denizens, including a stretch of years specifically focused on how shards are formed. She is uniquely qualified to assist with this project and will focus her efforts specifically on concocting a poison especially effective against shards that this project might drastically reduce the hordes' horrifying numbers. She may be able to provide a shard, if the team would benefit from having a test subject.

That 'blood of a Godsworn' she was talking about? Is me!

Caspian may not know poison or magic very well, but he does know weapons and abyssal. He is quite proficient with the stabbing of and being stabbed by abyssals. There is a trick to making a blade coating, to viscous and it simply drips off, to gooey and it doesn't infect the sight. he offers his insights into weapon coatings as well as how best to fight abyssals and get the poison into their system.

Did someone say poison? Not that a Velenosa Prince who has somehow survived into his sixties would know anything about poison. Okay maybe he knows a little. And maybe he knows a little about the occult. Just maybe. And what little he theoretically does know he uses to help the Lady Medeia with her task.

Mirari is skilled at making poisons, it's something she knows a great deal about and has expert knowledge on. It's more than just alchemy, Mirari herself creates poison through magic. Mirari is also a master weaponsmith and will craft weapons specifically for this cause, seeing if there are ways to alter the weapons design to better hold the poison itself. She will focus all her skills into developing something powerful and effective.

Noah knows all about poisons. He even knows about customizing them. Using them as needed. Dosing people at parties to experiment how they work out. He even knows a few secrets here and there to make them more potent. He is more than willing to lock himself away and study it day and night. He's more than willing to assist. He's more than willing to help come up with a way to help out.

Agric may not be an alchemist, but he does know the occult and is an excellent scholar. He's going to spend time researching anything and everything that may be of use in developing this concoction, focusing on texts relating to the Abyss and similar matters of the occult.

Olivia is going to use her gift with plants to try and rush some hybridized plants that may have a greater impact on Abyssals, with the hope of creating a plant that can have extracts harmful to the intended targets.

Tamsin is not an alchemist, but she is a physician and an invoker. She will lend her necromancy powers to the experimentation, adding death energy to anyone's experiment that wants it. But her real contribution to the effort is going to be in providing leadership! She's going to help arrange lab schedules and coordinate assistants. She'll provide cheerleading to keep people interested and motivated. When things are caustic to touch, Tamsin lends her skeleton pal to carry them around. In short, she'll lead how she's been groomed to lead: by pitching in everywhere there's a gap.

Titania is not good with postions or plants. But what she is good at is talking to people and diplomacy, so she will help get materials. She will talk to those she has to, sit and explain how important this project is.

Raven helps Medeia by letting Media test the potion on one of Raven's spare weapons making sure it adheres to the blade, isn't a hazard to the wielder and so on. Additionally if there is time, Raven will try live testing the weapon with Caspian by finding a low level (non friendly!) demon like a wraith suitable to test the blade on to try to verify the effects.

It did kill a tremendous amount of shards, and certainly was successful against abyssal creatures. Whether the traps in the the catacombs did some good against Azazel is harder to say, but it likely slowled him down, considering he didn't immediately cross into the Thinnest Point.

The Forgetfulness Plague? Aleksei thinks he recognizes it. He recognizes the lost memories of people who have been bound into service to darkness. Of those who have been under writ, maybe their entire lives. He recognizes these people for what they are: those who have been freed from bondage.

And the Liberators help all who have been freed from bondage.

The Liberators have money and resources, of course, as the discipleship of the Faith, but they also have the connections they've built over the years since their founding. Relationships across the Compact that have been built and nurtured through the dramatic shifts of thralldom and the work of the Liberators in finding all those former thralls new homes. And not just new homes, but new lives: connecting them with apprenticeships, helping them figure out what work they want to do, and basically just doing as much as possible to set them up for success.

_Prodigals_ might be a harder sell, but it is the Liberators' responsibility regardless. And so they shall work to make use of the infrastructure they've already built, and they will work to convince those across the Compact to welcome these new brothers and sisters. To remind them of the Compact's shared responsibility to help those who have been freed from bondage. To honor the tenets of freedom and choice by helping those who have gone without those tenets to find their footing in a new life. _Yes, in a real and tangible way, Compact, you can't just voice your well-wishes._ Time to help!

Resettlement operations are nothing new to the Liberators, and fortunately Ferrando is extremely fluent in all things streetwise and with several years of general carousing all over Arx from Lowers around the docks to the Whisper House on top of the previous Liberator operations helping resettle ex-thralls all across the Compact, he either knows a guy or knows a guy who knows a guy pretty much all over Arvum by this point. To that end he'll be setting up shop in Farhaven closest to the source of the refugees for a bit and essentially help direct said refugee traffic towards trusted contacts in appropriate spots, steering them away from bad situations, making sure they know where not to go to get mugged in unfamiliar cities, and helpful successfully life-rebooting stuff like that.

Claude will visit some of the places facing the heaviest influx of refugees and attempt to hold small town-hall style meetings and speak to influential people in those areas in the hopes of having them be more accepting and offering more aid to the refugees. He will speak on his own experiences as former under-writ Abandoned and how he has flourished thanks in great part to members of the Compact aiding and believing in him. And how welcoming and nourishing these new, lost souls, will make the Compact stronger and more robust.

Caspian was busy after the end of the war in thrax, working with many to help the now freed thralls find new places and new lives. now, he is a member of the commoner's council, and in a slightly better position to help those who find themselves in the city proper. He does his best to share stories of the North, of how shavs had saved lives, or charming stories of star struck loves from different families, anything to ingratiate the shavs with the people of the city.

Something isn't right with the numbers of refugees, the more that the Liberators spend with them. They are able to help them a great deal, but some unsettling details begin to emerge. These aren't just large sections of a few big shav clans, tribes or houses. Every group has their own distinctive markers, different cultural flourishes that they keep to themselves to blend when they have to, but it's still there, and it's easy to spot them as the Liberators spend time with them. They are able to identify members of hundreds of different groups. Thousands even. That's not just a number of groups that were under the sway of the Horned God. It can't be.

It's more like all the Abandoned groups in Arvum.

But if that's the case, where -is- everyone. They are helping thousands of people. Tens of thousands. And certainly that number is multipled many times over throughout all the different holdings in the Compact that people are fleeing to. But it seems like there should be more.

It doesn't feel like just some refugees. It feels like all of the Abandoned are being driven from their lands. -All- of them.

Under the direction and suggestion of Archducess Jaenelle Velenosa, and under the leadership of Marquessa Quenia Igniseri, the Mirrorguard are going to scout around the hedges to look for any sign of cultists or dangers that they can deal with head on, within reason. They will be making certain to stay away from the danger of the hedges itself, having been informed about the dangers that lurk when people get too close from those with past experience.

The Mirrorguard have been instructed to make smart choices about handling any dangerous cultists or monsters they come in contact with. If it is something that's too big for them to handle as a group, they are instructed to make a note, then move on and keep scouting. If the group determines they can handle the lurking dangers, they will attempt to do so to the best of their ability.

Quenia will be staying behind at the Mirrorguard Headquarters to help organize the efforts, working as a researcher and tactician in the background, but making sure the group is well coordinated to get the job done. If any question comes up with regards as to how to defeat a certain type of monster, she'll do her best to find any answers she can about weaknesses they can exploit to help get the job done. She'll also make certain the members of the Mirrorguard that are going out scouting are outfitted and have enough supplies to see their efforts through. She will make certain that Jaenelle is kept abreast of any activity as soon she is aware of it herself.

Jaenelle will go with the Mirrorguard to assist Quenia in any issues that might arrise. She will be there to command or direct as needed while also working with other groups to make sure that the Mirrorguard can be used where needed.

Caspian has already been to the thorns once.. so what is once more. And even better now that this time he isn't hacking his way into the heart of it. He has seen a good deal of cult activity, and knows some of the signs to look for. More over, he is experienced with surviving int he wilds and knows what to look for to identify oddities and potential areas of attack.

Duarte is not likely to leave Arx, but he is sending out some hired help he thinks are just perfect for this job! "Researchers and cartographers!" he claims, with his winning smile. Certain to only better document the scouting effort, while he stays behind and helps Quenia sort through the reports that come back in. Why is there a bowl grapes and a bottle of wine? Well - that's necessary to help keep Quenia well motivated, Duarte claims!

Thea is pretty familiar with the vines. So very familiar. The bright side is she at least knows what to look for at this point. So she’ll go and scope out the area, going as close as she can without disturbing the maneaters. The Countess will record whatever it is she finds and report it back to headquarters, likely in great detail.

Alexio will focus on preparing supplies, documents, maps, and ensuring messages are getting conveyed discretely from different groups. Alexio also will clearly play favorites and make sure as many mirrorguards make it into the Mirrormask blessings when and wherever they are. Alexio will also support Quenia's efforts to make sure Mirorrguard have optimal equipment for their work.

Jan is not one for subtly or stealth but she has the legendary Glinting Gale which apparently has it out for the abyss and a mind to help. Thusly armed she will use her knowledge and experience of war tactics to stage areas near where the scouts will be scouting so if the sneaking encounters trouble she and others there to help provide protection. She will assist in providing cover and assist those there to offer protection to the scouters can quickly join any trouble and try to keep scouters safe.

Most of the Mirrorguard experiments are very frustrating. The hedge grows back. Most of it can't be burned, or even chopped. It is dangerous to approach. And on and on. But one small shadowed stretch of the hedge doesn't seem to grow back at all, and can be chopped or burned. A very dark part of it, where the towers of Harrow Hall block the moonlight from shining upon it.

There's a need for Arvani Fire to assist in the efforts with Harrow Hall and the development of poisonous substances to clear the thorns. The Corsetina Family is connected. While other Houses are using legitimate means to acquire it, Mirari wants to find out what they can get on the black market. They will offer to pay of course, but if those negotiations are not fruitful, The Corsetina's will resort to more intimidating means to get it.

Mirari will lead with her charm, of course, trying to encourage people to do the right thing and put it in their hands.

Caspian is a bit of a firebug, so when the chance to get ahold of arvani fire came up, he jumped at it. While he doesn't have any black market connections, he is a charming face and a solid arm for when things go to shit.

Of course Megara will help her family acquire what they need on the black market. She'll try, of course. She's not the best at sweet talking and haggling, therefore she /might/ use less savory methods to acquire what she needs. Who knows. She's a bit unpredictable on a good day.

It's not easy, but they get it. There's an awful lot on the black market, particularly of the highly illegal trade with shavs, but House Corsetina is able to pull more than a few strings anf get a significant supply of it. It's definitely used to attack the hedge.

As rumours spread of Malach the Second hiding out in the Saffron Wilds. Cassiopeia has brought together family and friends to learn more as this is in their backyard. They want to scout the area and talk to any inhabitants to learn more. They are hoping to confirm whether or not Malach the Second has been seen and what has he been doing there. They intend to take this information and share it with the Faith or those that may want to apprehend him. While they are exploring the Wilds, they will try to map and build relationships at the same time.

The wilds are dangerous, and Savio will be there to protect the group from dangerous animals (or dangerous people) as they venture in search of answers.

While not much of a fighter, Nazmir is going along on the basis of assisting with building relationships. He'll use his skills as a diplomat in order to forge bonds or help gather information.

When it comes to hunting people down... caspian isn't the greatest. He loves sticking his nose where its not needed, but that usually just gets him punched, bitten, or otherwise. Still, he is more than happy to join in on the search, providing muscle and force for the rulers of tremorus.

While it may not be the most glorious thing, Rufio decides that he will grabs a squad of bushwhacking scouts and head out into the jungle to see what he can find. He'll act as a forward operating squad leader, using his knowledge of command and jungle survival to see what might be found. Tracks, signs of inhabitation, etc.

Turns out... Orland has a little history with The Real Malach thanks to Prince Sebastian. So he at least knows what to look out for when spotting this Malach the Second guy!! But mostly, he's going to be there for any LOCKS that need to be broken into. Or traps. Or things that need a quick sleight of hand to get them out of a sticky situation. You never know when you need a document stolen or keys snatched. It's always good to have the Legerdemain guy there. Besides, it's an excuse to go out on another outing with Savio and Family. Sounds fun!

The last time Arman ventured into the Chain to help with diplomatic ties the presence of the interloping Velenosa Prince was not well received. This time he shall avoid any direct contact, instead staying back at camp to offer his advice on diplomatic tacks to take or which avenues of investigation might prove more fruitful in tracking down this so-called Marach the Second.

Rosa loves people. She loves scouting. But in this case, she will be scouting the warm lands of the Saffron Iles. Which..it’s fine. She’ll make due.Rosalind will check the places that the inhabitants say they saw Malach the Second. She will look for signs that he was really there, hopefully be able to bring back proof.

Well, they are pretty sure they know where Marach is. The Saffron Chain is covered in old ruins, once inhabitated places that were decimated during the Reckoning. Many have dark rumors, being infested by demons, and abyssally twisted snake people. Word is that Marach the Second is hiding with many cultist followers in one such ruin on another island away from Tremorus, called by locals the completely reassuring, 'Forsaken Temple of the Dark Mirror' that no one has ever returned from. People traveling in the area frequently vanish.

It's been years, now, since Medeia asked how one might even the field between the Arvani and the Skal'dajans - knowing that the Eurusi mages wouldn't suffer the poisoned primum as the people of Arvum did. The result of that inquiry was the Rite of Retribution. Ever since it successfully turned the mages' work against them - making them have to be more judicious in their magic use and allowing a reprieve for the Arvani, Medeia has been thinking about what else could be done.

As she researched magic and plants more broadly, she came to find useful information on plants with special properties. Things like Elfblight Orchids and Sundraw. Combined with her notes on previous attempts to clear Thornweave vines across the Lyceum and Crownlands, a (failed) attempt to create a new poison to act against the vines, successful efforts to help extract primum from plants under Blush's guidance, and some good old fashioned creativity, the lady has worked to secure the assistance of Prince Tyrval Ael'Noctis - whose writings formed part of her research - to create a new ritual. One which can be used to help against the Metallic Traitor. With others offering their help, even knowing the risks, she gathers materials and begins to focus her intent, inviting her companions to assist - whether that is through active participation in the experimentation or simply providing support by protecting the transport of materials, being on hand to observe and fetch help if something goes terribly wrong, or being a trusted confidante that might provide some other insight.

First, she needs a few elfblight orchids. Though most in the city were wiped out during that wretched storm (supposedly), in the wake of that storm, Medeia had gained permission from Lou to do some new propagation tests. Those tests never happened, but if Lou won't provide a few from the Grayson estate, the Saik lady hopes Tyrval might be able to supply a few. These plants are known to be useful against Legion, and if watered with blood, they will sicken Sylv'alfar. Second, Medeia turns to Thea for Sundraw. Having done some experimentation with the plant known to be effective against blight already, she knows that the countess has had success cultivating the plant in captivity. Third, she calls upon Mabelle to share just one of the precious plums from Artshall that are rumored to provide clarity of mind and free people from the Traitor's control. Finally, a malissite gem. This is meant to be the item which all the magical energy is stored within, a portable talisman. Why malissite? Black stones - like onyx and obsidian - are seen by some (especially Eurusi and mirrormasks) as representing strength over the "that which lies beyond" (the Abyss), and while they are often associated with demon summoning, Medeia believes that such strength over the Abyss could be important in turning Abyssal things, too. Also, malissite has some rumored trait of being like concentrated venom, weakening those in touch with it.

All together, Medeia settles into the work of the ritual with the singular purpose in mind of weakening Orichalcum so that someday the Dream can be free of his selfish, destructive terror. Her sacrifice? Her own blood - both to water the orchids and the fuel the magic.

Aconite is helping Medeia with the gardening aspects of the job. Helping in whatever way she can, transplanting, pruining, ect.

Thea will be naturally supplying as much Sundraw as she's able to Medeia. She too has had success with the killing of vines, as was done in action 4380, to be able to make suggestions here and there. Thea will help mix and and show every note from journals she's written and collected over the years.

Eirene understands a lot about magic, more than most thanks to her years of research and study. She helps with the crafting of the ritual and the placement of the items to ensure the most effectiveness in this undertaking.

Vitalis offers to participate in the Rite by making a sacrifice. He offers a ring that he had once given to the late Lord Cillian Blackwood that was representative of breaking the Traitor's chains. The ring:

a slim band tinted red embossed with links of a chain

A slim band of cupridium, carved with the links of a chain circling the wearer's finger. The links are seamless, save a single link, depicted broken, its ends twisted to form a setting, prongs lifting receive a small disc of red metal.

Mabelle apparently thinks she came to a picnic. There is a basket in her hand, within it lies a single plum (they are needed elsewhere), a preserved elfblight orchid from the Laurent garden (although being alchemically preserved, the effect might vary) and a small velvet bag containing an assortment of black stones like jet, onyx and malissite, an ingot of alaricite and an ingot of platinum. She's no foreign alchemical experiments and this is just how she views it, not a ritual, an experiment.

Years ago when Pasquale and Sunaia were still courting Orichalchum taunted her with a dream and she came to him for comfort. Afterwards Sunaia gave him a ring of mirrored stygian decorated with a star-iron moon that Pasquale wore until after Sunaia's dissapearance. It's this ring, symbol of the hurts Orichalchum caused, that Pasquale offers as a sacrifice to this ritual along with his direct participation in the ritual.

Galatea is one of the foremost apothecaries and alchemists in the Compact. As such, she lends her expertise to the ritual preparations, particularly those having to do with the various exotic plant ingredients and making sure they are properly prepared and processed.

Mirk has made it clear that he will not participate in the ritual. His stance against blood magic prohibits it. He will, however, support Medeia indirectly: He combs his personal library, the Archives, and reach out to prodigals who might have stories from their tribes of anything remotely similar. He's not expecting to find or supply a fully-fledged ritual, but any scrap of insight or knowledge that he can provide might help them succeed. Despite his personal misgivings, he does believe the goal is worthy and he wants their efforts to succeed.

Patrizio does /not/ know a great deal about magic - just drips and drabs really he's collected from others who know far more about these things than he. Though he has misgivings about the use of blood magic and may worry about how it could backfire, he recognizes that desperate times call for desperate measures, and he lends his assistance with the experimentation and protection to ensure the ritual goes off as much without a hitch as it can.

Raven has offered to assist in preparation but NOT participation in this ritual. She will help vet aspects of the ritual and offer her opinion but is not present for the ritual

Caspian is here to provide all the field testing, manual labor, and any dangerous tasks that are required. Whether it be rushing into the woods to test some concoction against a infestation, hauling large bags of dirt, debris and other things round, or simply paying bait to nasty things to test efficacy.. he is there for it! He will also attempt to help with the ritual itself. Though he has no prior experience with it, he is familiar with the foundational elements and working of magic. his sacrifice, the collar he wore as a thrall for 19 years. He seeks freedom for all, to drive back the slaver.

If there is one truly unique contribution that Mia can make to this Rite, it's a few drops of her own blood. Prince Tyrval has used Mia's blood before to lure Braxxus the Bloodsniffer and weaponize elfblight orchids against him (Action #2365) and based on comments that have been made by him about the blood connection with her father potentially flowing BOTH ways, well. What better way to build something like a sympathetic connection and ensure that this talisman weakens Orichalcum specifically than his own bloodline? It's as close to his own blood as they're likely to get.

Tyrval finally offers his questionable assistance. On the positive side, he's the second most powerful blood mage and originally helped create some of the very things they are dealing with.

On the negative side, he's Tyrval.

They do it, but it's not easy. They have to go through an extremely significant amount of elfblight orchids and sun draw, and numerous malissite gems are ruined in the attempt. It's often hard to tell what's going right or wrong, as the Crown Prince of the Nox'alfar just keeps saying, 'No.' 'Not yet.' 'Close but wouldn't quite do it.' 'Definitely not.' 'Terrible, this looks like something a Rex'alfar would fashion.' and so on until eventually there's one pendant that he holds up a hand and says, 'This should do it.'

The ritual is a process of taking elfblight orchids, sundraw, a carefully constructed talisman or pendant with arcane etchings, a ritual bowl, malissite, and then mixing it and submerging it all in a bowl of one's own blood. There's incantations and a precise method to follow, and there's nothing showy about it- there's no visible outward effect, as is the case with rituals described as 'low magic' by the Prince. Still, at the end, he's confident it provides significant protection against 'sylv'alfar magic in general, and Orichalcum in particular'. It does not, however, help with being stepped on by gargantuans or stabbed by his minions, though Tyrval suggests trying to carefully position the pendant in a way to absorb arrows.

((It's a stamina check at normal to imbue a talisman and not pass out from blood loss, and once created, on any defensive roll against sylv'alfar magic can @check twice and use the better result. Against The Horned God himself, can check twice at one tier lower difficulty- eg daunting becomes hard.))

The Society of Explorers leadership makes it known they are seeking Explorers to assuage the worries of a reasonbly fearful populace regarding Developments of Late. Blood Moons and Mysterious Castles, etc. Explorers, you know, the stuff we see on the regular. If it is not in you to assuage, or give examples wondrous rather than terrifying, describe your triumphs and travails as a living example that it can be endured.

After a conversation with Raymesin about how the Lowers could probably use another guardian, Ian has decided to step up. He's a well known, if reclusive figure, often seen in Raymesin and Raja's company, living on a small ship at the docks. In fact, he's seen as enough of a native to the Lowers at this point that the peerage has started to turn their noses up about the whole thing (Ian has the 'shady' prop mod, just because of the company he keeps.)

Now he starts to come out of his shell, to engage with people. With conversations inevitably turning towards the blood rain, he slowly opens up to these people about some of the absolutely crazy stuff he's seen and done over the years. He tells stories the way he used to in happier times, stories couched as engaging tales to share with drinks, rather than scary stories to tell in the dark. These stories strip all of the mystique out of the mystical, and highlight moments that were funny, or embarrassing, or deserving of a giant facepalm. ("So we're holed up in this wooden house with the walking dead outside, and I shout up to this girl who's gotten out a bow 'Whatever you do, don't light them on fire!' and do you know what happened right while I'm saying this? Yup, out come the flaming fucking arrows. And here's the thing about lighting zombies on fire. You've still got to fight the zombies. But now they're on fire. And did I mention our hideout was made of wood?") He even brings out The Scarf, dubbed Horror Borealis by Vitalis. Nothing brings the supernatural crashing down to earth like an absurdly ugly scarf that smells just awful but somehow takes pride of place in so many adventures.

Ian also, from time to time, lets himself be convinced to go a few rounds with someone in a friendly fight at the ring in the Hollow. While he's not as talented a brawler as he is a fencer, he can still hold his own (brawl 3), and most importantly can display his almost supernatural ability to avoid getting grabbed or struck (Ian has a 20 point dex+dodge knack titled 'Practically Precognition'.) to back up that yes, this is definitely a guy who could pick a fight with a demon if he had to.

But mostly, Ian just establishes himself as a presence here, as someone who has had a long enough experience with monsters and "that fucking occult nonsense" to be able to turn them into something almost mundane. He establishes that he is here, just on the docks where he can easily be sent for. And he establishes that he cares. If the time comes when there is something terrible that needs to be faced here, he'll face it right alongside the people of the Lowers. And it will make for an EPIC story, one that everyone can tell.

Vitalis hosts an event at the Society Charter Hall open to one and all (with the lure of food and drink), opening the Museum and Map Rooms to visitors and inviting Explorers to speak of their adventures.

For his own part, he begins with something out of a fairytale - the Gray Forest Protectors, talking animals who fought alongside Arx's defenders when the Lodge of Petrichor was attacked. He moves on to the mystical herb Sundraw, also called Petrichor's Jewels or Blight's Bane, a rare and powerful cure for terrible poison. And then the story of a voyage beyond the Mourning Sea and of a storm spirit that guided his ship to safety. He tells stories of the Suthryn Wastes and the land beyond, with poison frogs (which he shows) and bright parrots (Peckworthy is an example, but not from that voyage). And in Arx itself, he tells of the sparklemites that light the City's lamps. Of the Clocktower and that strange green snow, they remember it now, don't they, and isn't *that* strange? How a mage called Copper, who created the Clocktower, spent her life and bought grace for the people of Arvum on the day the Clocktower fell. That just recently, the glow over the City during the recent battle was a force of great good will meeting a dark one.

That the world is incredibly large and mysterious and wondrous. That they are all just waking to the mysteries and can likewise chart the course into an uncertain future together! He'll end with a Q&A, doing his best to field the questions asked.

Rosalind definitely knows what lurks in the night. She's fought them. And with that winning smile of hers on that freckled face, she will go around recanting all the tales. The dozens she's witnessed and have been part of. The witnessing of spirits, shapeshifting, the moon. The Ravenseye has the stories. Gather around the first and listen?.

Caspian is nothing if not a story teller! he is known for weaving tales and painting pictures with words of adventures that always seemed impossible. Impossible.. until now. now, with the world awakening to the truth about magic and the wonders that abound, he once more spins his stories. Stories of lost cities, of adventures fighting demons, stories of spirits and dragons. All of his adventures, all of the many things he has seen, laid out for all to hear. He answers questions and shares what information he can with all who ask. Where there is knowledge, there is less room for fear to grow.

Adalyn is a warrior, a champion. Someone who cares deeply for people, understanding how jarring things can be and having experienced some of these things herself she understands. So she will go around with a small group, she will tell people stories of Heroes of Arx and Avrum and how magic helped guide some of them. She will do these small stories in ways only she knows how in small live action story times, she will play the part of both heroes and Villain's to tell the stories, to show people that things will be ok that it is not a bad thing that is happening.

Jan doesn't know much about the occult but she knows plenty about war. She has been studying historical battles and talking with seasoned military leaders of this generation, highlighting the victories the Compact has scored and underscoring humanity has survived such troubles in the past.

Of all the things to be asked to do, Mattheu was not prepared for it to be of stories of how magic is helpful. However, he's heard others tell tales of where it has been, and was upon the Bay of Arx in return to the city when the attack took place where he witnessed the wall of fire rise up to shield the city from advancement. Years working for scraps and set for distraction as a Ravashari Entertainer, he knows how to spin a tale even if his heart is not completely within it. Taking to his violin and playing music along side of telling stories of what others have done, what he's witnessed, seeking to help change the view of not only how magic is playing within the Compact, but also how Prodigals can be helpful, as he leans into his work with the city, with those around him.

The seemingly ever cheerful Ryhalt helps calm fears by telling of stories focusing on humanity's enduring nature, reminding how its their ability adapt, change, and survive that is their gift. He pulls these stories from his own experiences and research.

Lucita already is using songs to assist with calming populace, reassuring and reminding of joy, familiar things. To that effort already in progress, she adds stories about our brave soldiers in current memory, from the Bringer war and Setarco, the Lodge war that these things are known to many, and even if they have forgotten or blocked them out, they succeeded, they survived! She has stories to tell of the things she has seen and done told in a reassuring, positive way. She encourages people subtly and gently to 'put on their big boy pants'.

Eirene has seen a lot of shit. And done a lot. She shares the story of the first demon slain in recorded memory - the Beast of Sanctum. Back in 1005 Orazio, long before he became Dominus, entrusted Eirene and a handful of others with fighting a demon hoardling summoned near Sanctum. She describes the fight in detail but with the overall message of "You can fight them. We know how to make them bleed. We know how to make them die." )She speaks of the rebirth of magic, and how even now there are people tapping their potential, their heritage, their birthright denied. Stories of their ancestors brave deeds forgotten, but there are stories they will tell their children that they are the heroes of. We are those heroes, and we will fight for a future where our children can freely tell those stories without the torn pages of memories or the chains of Destiny. And the Explorers will help shape those stories, and ensure people are around to tell them.

It does help. The Society of Explorers has many, many stories to tell, much of which just has never been safe to reveal until now, and hearing about it does calm the nerves. There almost certainly would have been some panic, and some riots, but the knowledge that some of what has happened has approached a degree of normalcy just helps a great deal. The Society does quite a bit for helping prevent panic in Arx.

Quenia Igniseri is not entirely sure that House Igniseri is experiencing financial troubles. Since the death of Malrico, their finances have gone up and not down, like others within the Lyceum. However, she's not about to let her confidence in her domain's ability to stay afloat get the best of her. Granato is the main shipping area for both Igniseri and for Rubino-Zaffria, so she's well aware the ports could house folk, unbeknownst to her, who might have been digging into shadier elements that might bring either domain to ruin.

So Quenia is going to do her due diligence. She's going to travel to Granato to speak with her mother, Emisilia, who has been managing the affairs of the city while Quenia has been governing from Arx. She will go over the books with her mother to help figure out any discrepancies. She's also going to travel to the various banks within the city and to the docks to see if they've noticed anything off with their accounts or with the shipping records of goods coming to and from the city.

If they find anything from the records, or by talking to the bankers or the dockmasters, she's going to follow that trail to see if it leads to any actionable circumstances. IE: she'll confront those people they discover who might be responsible for shady dealings.

To achieve this, she'll be using her various investigative and social skills and she will bring along those people who can support her in digging out information; those good with street skills, those good with additional investigative skills, and those who can provide muscle should muscle be needed. She's employed the help of her family and her friends, and has hired outside help with this task, in hopes of being able to retrieve some of the missing hoard of Malrico or at least find a lead on where else they must look.

In an effort to aid both the Lyceum and House Igniseri, Luis will add his knowledge and skills to working at securing what was lost, or misplaced, or hidden away. Through his contacts and with some of the knowledge that he has gleaned over the years with respect to this exact issue, he will work towards helping Quenia recover the missing goods. He has made contact with the one who controls the gold through Arx and those whom have attempted to oppose them, which he believes will likely be involved with the missing goods.

The fact that Malrico's name has been replaced with a bloody coin is something that Luis believes is tied to the coinmaster. Many things have gone missing in the last year and they are all likely tied together in some elaborate plot, so Luis will pool his knowledge and resources with his family and those whom are helping them in uncovering this.

Luis will also utilize his understanding of the Grey Mages and the True Lyceum to attempt to put some context to the situation and help address the possible fallout from the change in heralds, as well as the long standing issues that they have had and how those conflicts could affect current affairs.

Lucita was a former Igniseri before marrying out. Saik and Igniseri are close allies. When Quenia asks help of Lucita, she willingly assists her in the effort to dig through records. A little charm and bit of subtle manipulation goes a long ways to persuade bankers and dockmasters to talk in order to try to discern if any are involved in diverting funds from their proper destination and following up as such information shows to be necessary. Thieves, bah! Thieves for a Herald, tripply bah!

It might not be so surprising to hear that Mailys and a host of Corsetina accountants are well aware of the discrepancies with ledgers throughout the Lyceum. Though her family's two previous leaders sided with the Pravosi, Mailys has remained a constant presence and service to the Princess Jaenelle, and the Archduchess' counties, like House Igniseri. So the missing shadow ledgers weren't required to see silver flowing back into the Igniseri coffers. What seems to be the trouble, across the Lyceum, is locating where silver was wandering off to, and what (if anything) was the silver used to buy?

Recovering stolen goods, laundering sums of money into investments, purchasing things through other representatives all have a shady element that is hard to pin down unless you know where to find those people. Mailys knows how to find those people, and in what languages those people discuss business. The Dockyard and the Merchant District of any good port city holds key details to which businesses and owners grew fabulously wealthy, and which found themselves lost when a sudden disappearance folded an entrepreneur's success. There would always be stories, rumours, and jealousy to keep details flowing over the decades, or so the Corsetina hoped. A desire can fall into many categories, and the Corsetina toolbox is very full with options to trade for leads.

Intrigue really was at the heart of her games to turn people into assets of knowledge. When Mailys had but only a single thread, she can weave all the charm and control necessary to get what she wants and deliver.

Duarte is going to use what remains of his lycene connections to see what he can do to assist Quenia's search.

Economics and ledgers are not a strong suit for Raja. However, she does understand shady dealings rather well. Instead of focusing on the finances of things at the top, she goes straight to the bottom. Using some of her shadier contacts, she will work to follow the silver trail and root out the criminal enterprises of the area. What she is ultimately looking for is discovering who the criminal groups work for. Sure, Malrico is gone, but Raja assumes a lot of his criminal infrastructure remains in some degree or fashion. Someone out there is still getting the money.

Caspian is not a criminal mastermind. But he is clever. He is not a blade in the dark. but he is a blade. Quenia has called for the more shady folks to help her root out corruption. Caspian cant be of huge help in THAT part, but when it comes to the actual rooting.. he is very good at that. He is damned good with a blade, knows the streets, and can blend in easy enough.

Also, as they search through these caches, Caspian will be looking out for that Amber maulet.. the one Malrico was given by Weohstan. It could be useful in future endeavors and so he will take careful note of any reference that that.

Raven will prowl around the nearby city and settlements looking for places which may stand out to her. She won't use mage sight but she will see if she can find anything suspicious or anyplace that reminds her of those shadowy places of Setarco-those forboding nooks and corners where people shy going near because of the feelings of ominous, or maybe it's being watched-she will mingle and look for the spooky hidey holes of the area Marquessa Quenia and her house are searching.

Things /are/ tied up in some elaborate plot. That much is clear. The spy networks do seem to point to various Suspicious Caves around the Lyceum but any attempt to venture into them has lead to death or severe maiming with the survivors telling tale of an elaborate underground system. Though with the location of some of these being known, including in Granato vassal territories, perhaps a larger group can make the effort in the future.

Looking into potential criminal enterprises is more promising. There are at leas five different merchant families that seem to have far greater an influence on trade than they ought to, with supply and demand fluctuating as a result of their whims, though they've quietened down since Malrico's death, leading to some stabilisation of the market. But they are still around...

After attending several defense meetings, being involved in helping evacuate refugees during the razing of Artshall, and meeting with the Society of Explorers as a whole, Lou is taking the Explorers to help House Grayson scout the northwestern part of the Crownlands as indicated in the depicted map: https://imgur.com/a/CNeLZHg (the parts that are circled yellow and red -- also see @clue 4635).

The Explorers will start at northern most portion of the map outlined, which is closest to Frosthaven and Whitepeak and moving south toward the territory just at the base of the mountains above Cedar Vale. They will avoid going into Whitepeak at all; traveling up the mountain is an arduous task and also dangers may still lie there. They will check out the ruins at the base of the mountain where Forsthaven is located, then sweep through the remaining countryside. They are particularly interested in the area where the Arbres used to be homed (all in the red area circled on the map), since the whole tribe of shav'arvani vanished.

While they are almost certain that the Traitor was involved in clearing out the area, they are searching for any signs of survivors among the villagers and baronies that were known in those locations, additional information on how the potential abductions were carried out (all in the yellow circled area on the map), and any new dangers that might be presented in the area. It will be as meticulous a sweep as needs to be in order to bring further information back to Houses Redrain, Grayson, and Valardin.

In particular, they are also looking to see if any areas are being used as a staging grounds for a standing army or group that might do harm to the Crownlands holdings in general in hopes of getting that information back to Liara in order to mobilize the Grayson army if there should be need.

Mirk will be accompanying the Explorers in search of signs of the Traitor's involvement. Though he travels into the Crownlands, it's near to his usual stomping grounds: Cascade Springs, a Halfshav township he helped to found, isn't much further north, and he's had encounters with Shavs in the Grey Forest more than once. He's even traveled though those regions to visit Whitepeak before (Action 4273), though he doesn't speak of that incident.

He accompanies the others and where villages are found or tribes encountered, he gets to know people, never driving for information if he can help it, but always listening and learning their stories. He attempts to get to know the lands they travel in the same way, communing with the spirits where he can and listening to the signs around him, while he pays special attention to anything that distinguishes those places from others. It might present hints of what had happened, leads of where the expedition might go.

Because while these might not be his lands, the Metallic Traitor threatens all, and uncovering his schemes is the first step to stopping them.

Caspian is heading out with the Explorers! While not a fantastic scout in his own right, he knows his way around the hills and woodlands. He is handy in a pinch, can tell horrible jokes and fanciful stories by the fire side, and doesnt mind carrying an extra pack. honestly a great boon on any prolonged scouting trip! That he has done this before is an added bonus. The war on the isles is demanding of his time, but if the Traitor is not stopped, there isles won't matter. And if the Traitor wants something, its a good bet we DONT want him to get it.

Lisebet has been on a few exploration missions with the explorers, and is entirely willing to go along on this one. More, it's important to her to be helpful and useful in the fight against the traitor and his minions. She sees this overall as helping to protect the people of Ashford, and is determined to do all she can to help out.

She's a diplomat, obviously, and so will be there to try to smooth over waters where needed. She'll go along with the group, looking to try to gently get information where she can, if there's any to be found. She's investing resources in order to bring items that are small but valuable, that might be useful in any trading/treaty discussions or to ransom anyone who gets kidnapped. (I was thinking 2000 Economic resources - though am open to any suggestions.)

This diplomacy is the nominal reason she's with the group, and may turn out to be the most important, but she is also an occultist, with a fairly extensive knowledge with regards to things occult, not that she talks about that very often. She'll be looking for anything obvious or obscurely occult, if she can identify it, and if there's a chance it might help, she'll be willing to try mage sense to see if she can learn more - this has helped her at least once (PRP: Tale of the Mercier Massacre) providing some additional information that helped to solidify the picture and understand what was happening. Given that they are searching for information that may relate to a powerful mage, this is possibly a risky but important part of trying to figure out what is going on and how to stop it.

Icelyn is joining the Explorers as a scout. As former Knight of Solace likely she has travelled the roads of the Crownlands before, even if she is not necessarily familiar with some of the settlements they intend to visit. So she'll scout forward where needed and report back to the main group to help keep their people safe.

Lucita has been a member of the SoE for years and is an experienced explorer. She was present at the initial attack on Bastion and at Artshall and is very aware of the threat against the compact. While not the best of scouts, she has traveled through the territory several times on the way to Whitepeak, a matter of which she can not speak (action 4021), to Aviarion's Peak and Bonespire with Quenia (action 4451). She also traveled to Everwinter near Clearlake Hold and Lastlight Hold while attending the wedding of Rowenova and Tarik (event 6542). Bards are generally welcome anywhere. She seeks to ease suspicion of any who are encountered and hopes some of the villages through which she has passed peaceably may remember her kindly enough to share gossip and information.

As the Explorers make their way through the Crownlands, looking for any clues as to what Helena Thornweave might be after or where she might attack next, they pass empty village after empty village. Their mission was grim to begin with, but each abandoned village makes the mood of the party more tense, particularly for Lou who seems to retreat within herself the further they get into the forest without discovering another single living soul.

There isn't even much to hunt for food, forcing them to rely on their rations and whatever they can scavenge in these abandoned villages. Caspian brings back a brace of rabbits for stew one afternoon only to find them all full of maggots when cut open. The forest is quiet for the most part lacking even animal sounds. As Icelyn and Caspian scout ahead, they finally find a village with signs of life? almost.

The carnage is recent with fresh blood making mud of the village green. In the center of it, a twisted amalgamation of red thorny vines rises nearly twenty feet into the air. At the center is a dark haired woman. She has been pierced through with smaller vines and thorns, barely clinging to life. When Lou sees her, the princess immediately backs away to vomit into the nearby grass. The woman looks at Mirk and manages a smile, her teeth limned in blood.

"Take my brooch back to Arx. To? Aindre Grayheart. He will know why. The witch is heading east from here. You.. don't want to catch her." The woman coughs, more blood staining her lips. "She made a monster here, in the green. Made me watch. I set it on fire so she chose to kill me slow."

The woman heaves a few breaths and manages to gasp out, "She doesn't like fire. Tell Aindre that, too. Tell him I'm sorry. Tell him to take care of my brother?" She slumps forward with a sigh of relief and goes still. Before the others can hack apart the vines to put the woman to rest, Caspian spots a copper brooch in the dirt and picks it up, turning it over in his hand with a frown on his face, before handing it off to Mirk as Lou is shaking too hard to take it in her hand.

Lisebet stares at the vines as the others try to remove the woman's body from the cluster. Suddenly, she cries out and drops to her knees, head in her hands as she whispers, "Oh gods, no." Over and over again until she faints.

The Explorers put the woman to rest solemnly, during which Lucita sings a sweet and sad song of mourning for her, and move to head back to Arx as it becomes quite clear that Lou isn't capable of continuing the journey in her current state, Lisebet probably needs to see a Mercy, and they have a message to pass along, it seems.

Under the direction of Lou Grayson, the Society of Explorers is going to - well - Explore. Their prime goal is to explore as much of the Saffron Chain as they are able in the time that they might have, in order to find any additional information that might help provide the Spirit Walkers with an advantage in putting the Great Blood Spirit back to sleep.

They'll do this by setting out to sail the Saffron Islands, introducing themselves to the people they find, and asking questions. There are a number of Explorers with various languages available to them to help facilitiate the role of translator, as well as other who excel in diplomatic relations and protection. They will always try to find a peaceful means to get the information they are seeking, only using violence to defend themselves if necessary. Gifts will be provided where feasible, and if they happen upon any tribes among the Saffron that Alarice might have had relations within the past, Lou might try to leverage that ancient connection, provided it was a good one, to see if they'd be willing to form alliances once more.

Questions they might be asking along the way are:

1) what are the legends associated with the Great Blood Spirit?

2) is there anyone who might know of any rituals to put the Spirit back to sleep?

3) what historical records and/or maps might they have that might give further information on locations where relics might be found to help with putting the creature back to sleep or on what dangers they might want to consider when performing the ritual.

4) would there be anyone willing to help the members of Arvum wishing to perform the ritual to put the Great Blood Spirit back to sleep?

Lou would be relying heavily on those members of the Explorers who have first hand knowledge of the Saffron to try and steer away from any of the more dangerous territories; cannibals, hostiles, etc. She has the safety of her people and her crew at the forefront of her mind, while also seeing this task through.

Guides and Translators: Having grown up in the Saffron Chain and spent much of her adolescences traveling around it. Cassiopeia will use her knowledge and connections to help find guides for the Explorers to assist them in navigating and collecting information.

Where appropriate Ryhalt helps smooth and encourage exchange of information by setting up trade for needed goods. Otherwise he joins trips to investigate findings and offers his mind to help puzzle out elusive clues.

Rosa LOVES people! LOVES them. And she's such a chatter box. A stealthy chatter box at that. She's a scout you know, but quiet when needed. Make sense? While scouting about the Saffron, Rosalind with use her people skills and ability to understand the strange, she will talk to those she finds along the way. She will likely talk their ears off, asking a million questions about the blood spirit, that that should not be named.

Ruins of unknown providence? Jungles with curious critters? Tovell is a fresh-faced Explorer who brings one particular set of skills to bear at this juncture: He's a professional person-protector. Throughout the wandered explorations of the Saffron Chain, Tovell will avail himself to any seekers and scouts who believe they may need to tread dangerous ground and could use a protective fellow who won't blend in all that well.

Oh no Oswyn is so busy. So, so busy. But sometimes there are little hidden snippets about far-away things in the Archives. Maybe even things bigger than snippets, because it's probably easy to shove a book about something as crazy as a blood spirit that quaked a continent apart in the silly stories section. Anyway, Oswyn has people who poke books so he has them poke books. And tells them good places to poke at.

As a newer addition to the SoE, Adalyn is eager to join in this endeavor and assist where she is able. She'll put her sociable nature to work, turning on the charm and trading stories with those she encounters (because if there's one thing she might enjoy as much as telling wild stories of her various adventures, it's hearing others recount theirs). She's hoping her conversational and diplomatic skills will uncover helpful information.

Kiera has always been interested in storries untold and the solving of puzzles, which leads to a fascination with connect disperate subjects. This led to an interest in myth and legend of both the oathlands region and tales outside of her conventional faith upbringing, which in turn lead to discoveries about Dawnhome. Convinced that it will be an area of continued interst to the enemies of the compact, she is resolved to learn all she can. her present focos is examining connections between dawnhome and cardia with the hope of providing insights others may not have explored

Action: Eirene knows sailors. And sailors know stories. So she hits up as many in sailor's taverns as she can to get info about the saffron they may have learned along the way. She uses her knowledge of sailing to make friends.She brings great quantities of Southport rum to help smooth her conversations. Lots and lots of rum.

Ian is an experienced sailor and an experienced captain, and more than that, since he, Haakon, and Jasher won the Regatta, he also has access to a sloop. He loads the Explorers onto this fast, agile ship, hoping to keep the non-combatants among them safe(er) by virtue of being able to outrun any ship that tries to overtake them, while at the same time, the fast ship will cover more distance, allowing further exploration in one trip.

He's able to offer one of the outer islands of the Stormward duchy as a staging area, as well, providing easy (or easier, anyway) access to parts of the Saffron Chain that Pravus has yet to map and explore, as these are the places where undiscovered answers are most likely to be available.

Jhond too is an experience explorer and focused especially on the exploration part. Taking the path less travelled, blazing a trail. He will help explore places and will use his talents to get to hard reach places. cliffs, caves, climbing, swimming. he will help pave the way for others to follow.

Lisebet is an Explorer, Scholar, and diplomat, as well as a Duchess. She is signing up for this trip expecting that diplomatic skills will be needed in order to get to places where relics or clues might be found, or to get stories/history from inhabitants of the isles. She's got some knowledge of things occult and riddles, but by far her largest input seems to be on the diplomatic front. She'll be there to soothe nerves, orate about benefits, ask questions, try to suss out hidden agendas or not so hidden ones. She does speak several languages which may also be of use, and she's willing to put herself out there, in order to help learn what to do to resolve this.

And if she gets a chance, she might even try to negotiate a cute little animal companion.

Vitalis is a seasoned explorer and for an effort like trying to learn about an ominous ancient spirit, he brings his sleuthing skills to bear. Talking with islanders, studying ruins and texts, sigils and symbols, mundane and occult alike. He's looking for information about Dawnhome, the fabled volcano, blood spirits, the easternmost point that Shamans sought out, Dream trees, legends, lore anything that will help shed needed light on the slumbering spirit's status.

Shae is a knowledgeable scout, and tracker, but she also possess a great deal of knowledge of flora and fauna. As well as having had the chance to explore mythical places, such as Brightshore. And she plans to put that knowledge to work to help seek out clues, and information that might go unnoticed by others. Leaning into her connection to the land.

It might seem like 'nothing', and perhaps it is. But! A combination of watching the Spirit Walkers, conversations with the Faith, Bella, Sebastian, heck just by virtue of being alive Raven's learned things that want to meddle or have something to say, or sometimes even just be nosy and silent find her with a frequency that's prompted outright exasperation from the Blackheart. Be it Her Shady Friends from Setarco, Abyssals, Spirits, and /possibly/ even the divine, she must just have an approachable face if one is a non-human sentient.
     So that's what she does. She will join the scouts and keep her eyes and ears open. There are no rituals, no appeals for aid. She may poke around to see what she can see incidentally to point out to scouts. She will accompany some scouting groups, other times she may set up somewhere nearby away from people and sit quietly as Mirk and the spirit walkers have taught her to do. If she can entice something to pass comment, or get to talking, or talk up her fellow Explorers to the non-human natives she will make the attempt to encourage anything that doesn't seem outright suspicious to chat up others so they may be questioned. In short Raven tags along and tries to be her usual magnetic self, and periodically makes time to meditate away from the group. See if anything could be spotted, or something opts to approach her and could be persuaded to chat up the group. Could be the group is left to wonder why Raven's even here.

Xanthe is going to tag along and provide help where need be. Mainly in the way of protection since she is best at fighting things with her weapons.

Felicia is an explorer, and Deathspeaker, though at least in relation to the latter her 'talent' has been somewhat spotty of late, and her relationship to stealth might at best be considered 'laughable'. What she can do is help with the exploration of ancient places and perhaps the puzzling of obscure languages. And if the ghosts are willing, mayhaps they might deign to speak to the Harrow and offer insight of the dead and forgotten as to how to deal with their very modern problem.

Lucita is an experienced explorer, often teaming up with other members of the SoE in those explorations. Music often makes a bridge between people, soothing, relaxing, creating a bond through its enjoyment and helping disarm suspicion. She collects old songs, old music references and hopes exchanging these with others might bring some useful information about the Great Blood Spirit to the effort. She asks if playing soothing, calming music helps relax that spirit and help prolong its quiescent state till rituals to put it back to sleep can be preformed.... and will play that if others answer yes to that question.

Recently rejoined, Caspian will do what he does best, namely be loud and stop trouble. Everyone loves a story, and more so people love to tell them! while most tavern tales are fanciful, there is often a grain of truth. Caspian will frequent the taverns and social gatherings, singing songs of the spirits and encouraging others to share their tales. Find enough similar threads and you can start to find the truth. Also, should any trouble arrive from any of the Explorers endeavors, he will likely be the first into the fray to make sure others are safe.

With the work of House Proscipi having cleared the way for the Explorers, the group is permitted to do more of their actual job in exploring rather than trying to fight off the Abandoned. That said, those Abandoned the live within the jungles, give those who arrive a wide berth. There is an awareness that they are there, lurking within the trees or observing from afar, but the Explorers are permitted to explore unbothered. Of course, that also means that they lack the expertise of a local guide in some places, but they are well-trained and still able to pick their way through the jungles with a minimum of injury and delay.

Of course, the fact that it is a jungle means that Lou's dream of trying to map the entirety of the Chain isn't quite able to keep up with reality. She does have the maps provided to her of those areas that -are- settled and well-documented and the work that the Explorers do helps to fill in a few of the blanks on those maps receives wide-spread acclaim from those within the settlements and cities of the Chain since mapping the jungle requires hard work and a degree of ability. Not many possess a wealth of both and either have the skill, but not the time or the time, but lack the skill required. Thankfully, the Explorers possess a good deal of both and are properly appreciated for their efforts, meaning that future trips to the Saffron Chain will likely be welcomed by those members of the Compact that live here.

The jungles are dotted with ruins. Some are so worn down and crumbling that there is only the impression of a structure that once existed where vines now hold the shape. After one strenuous day of travel, they make camp in the midst of some better kept ruins. After rations are distributed and the watch assignments made, some of the group takes some time to explore. The ruins consist of a large building that might have been something like a temple, but one of the walls is missing and, if there was a roof, it is long gone now. Inside, there are marble slabs that line the walls of the 'temple', overgrown with flowering vines and teeming with the local wildlife. There is something that appears to be a fountain in the middle of the large room, but, though it is filled with flowers, it is also crumbling into marble dust.

The carvings on some of the pillars depict closed eyes. Everywhere around them, there are engravings of closed eyes. It's a little creepy.

Still, after a long day of hiking and mapping, they have little trouble falling asleep, despite the weirdness of those carved eyes. Their dreams are deep. They see snakes and hear the sound of music and see the soar of dragon wings overhead. There are voices that whisper in their dreams, but the language is unfamiliar. The dream of a city of the dawn, stretching out over the Chain before it dissolves into lava and ash. When they wake and discuss their dreams, the Explorers realize that they have all had the same dream in this strange, eerie place. They waste little time in packing up and departing after making sure proper notes of the ruins and the dream have been taken for later analysis. Later, when the Explorers speak of the place they found to some within the settlements, they say that they have heard the place called 'The Gate of Dreams'.

Overall, while their mission doesn't map the entirety of the Saffron Chain, they do manage to create some tentative maps where none existed before and earn the respect and favor of the Chain's natives in the process.

The Good Duke of Gemecitta, a musical comedy by Prince Niklas Grayson

It's time for another Niklas Grayson SPECTACULAR!

With the help of Nightingale Gianna Whisper, Niklas has put together an entirely new form of theatrical entertainment. They've taken one of his older plays, his first real hit, a comedy called The Good Duke and have rewritten it so every scene is a song, every line is a lyric and the entire play is an extravaganza of dancing, singing, acting and (in some cases) fighting. With extensive choreography, music from a number of popular genres and an all star cast, this reimagining, called The Good Duke of Gemecitta, is set to be a genre defining event.

Almost as important as the play itself is the fact that it will be the first theatrical performance held at the Bard's College, meant to demonstrate the worthiness of the College as a venue for all sorts of entertainment. That the show (which Niklas has termed a 'musical', so as to keep it separate from the somewhat artsier 'opera') contains such a mix of performances will allow the auditorium at the Bard's College to show its versatility.

Niklas also pulled together a cast made up of some of the city's most well known singers, dancers and actors. Backstage are legendary and famous artists putting together sets and wardrobes. As well as a veritable army of PR people out there hyping the whole thing. As Niklas has said in his humble and low key manner, this will either be the greatest spectacle in the history of the Compact, or the biggest disaster since the city burnt down. Either way, worth the cost of a ticket, right?

And finally, this is meant to be a big charity event. Once the commoner participants are paid all other funds will go toward Princess-Consort Alarissa Thrax's Thursday's Child project. But wait, what about paying the venue?! Well, it turns out that when you're Assistant Nightingale of the Bard's College you can cut yourself a 100% discount. So every last silver that doesn't go to pay (commoner) cast and (commoner) crew will go toward helping to pay off the debt of thrall children. Given that his brother freed hundreds of thralls, but did so in the dumbest way possible, this is something about which Niklas is actually quite passionate.

There will be no event and as such no specific plot writeup. In a highly general sense the musical is about a conflict between (the wholly made up) Duke Enzo Rubino and Duke Giacomo Zaffria which gets farcically out of control when they schedule weddings for their heirs to occur on the same day. Lady Giulia Igniseri (Sorrel) is betrothed to Lord Stefano Rubino (Alejandro) and Lady Carina Zaffria (Yasmine) is engaged to wicked Prince Marco (no house name, Lumen) and wants out as she and Lady Alessandra Rubino, Stefano's older sister (Bliss) are in love. And of course Lady Eleonora Zaffria (Evonleigh) is in love with Lord Stefano. Marco's sister, Princess Valentina, (Sabella) isn't in love with anyone except herself, but she acts as the narrator and routinely breaks the fourth wall to address the audience directly, generally to make humorously unkind comments about the people on stage. There's humorous lyrical dialogue, some of that broad physical comedy from the second act of The Playwrights, three dramatic sword fights (including a three way fight between done to a jaunty saltarella) and a couple of love stories. There's drama, but since this is Nik, there's a happy ending for most characters and only the jerk prince (whose house is never named) ends up getting killed due to his own shittiness as a person. (Note: though his marriage contract allows him to keep publishing as Niklas Kennex, he's decided his old family is full of nerds, so he's going to be Prince Niklas Grayson for purposes of this show.) And while the show gets a lot of comedic mileage out of the unique setup of Gemecitta's duel dukes, the show is respectful toward the city itself, including the intro song sung by Princess Valentina that talks about how great, if weird, Gemecitta is.

Gianna helped write the songs and is providing the stage - the Bard College's Performance Hall - as well as some of the talent, some funding from the College's account, and using the bards to spread word of mouth and up the hype. The problem with all this involvement is that she has a personal stake in how good the singing is, and she is highly critical and determined to make sure the songs are flawless, even if that means people have to learn to sing better. She can show them what they need to do, and she will, but she will not be pleasant to work with. She probably has to be removed from the process at some point. Good thing Niklas has a really high Diplomacy skill! Seriously, there are good reasons she has instructors that aren't her at the College.

Sabella is simply thrilled to take the stage for the very first time acting in her husband's musical as Princess Valentina, wicked Prince Marco's sister and narrator to the story that often breaks the fourth wall to interact with the audience and make fun of the other players. Not only will she eat nothing but lettuce in the months leading up to the production to make sure she looks her best for the role, she will throw herself into learning the lines and the songs and practicing her improv so that this is the very most amazing show that ever existed! BEST PLAY EVER!

Ah, the theater! Princess Elgana is enthused there is to be another play put on but the fact that it is a production by Prince Niklas is just the icing on the cake. How could she ever dream of saying 'no' to a chance to promote his latest work? There is an all-star cast! Music! Drama! Laughter! It has everything and she's going to bend the ear of anyone who stands still long enough around her to get the word out about this production and how amazing it is going to be and how anyone who is ANYONE in this city ought to be there on opening night.

Berenice has agreed to help promote Niklas's newest production, but she's taking a very particular spin on it: she's talking up her interest, certainly, dropping it in conversation about how excited she is for opening night, but more than that, she's going to be flexing her wiles to get all sorts of people competing for the honor of escorting her to opening night. Will it involve duels? It might, you never know. Will Berenice _encourage_ people to duel over getting to take her to the theater? One hundred percent absolutely. She's going to make an absolutely delightful game of the whole thing. Who will actually take her to opening night? THAT'S NOT IMPORTANT. Hopefully there will be tears and fights and DRAMA before the curtain even opens.

Once again, and to her great excitement, Tabitha will be lending her efforts to any tasks that require the skills of an artist: painting sets, creating props, applying stage make-up and so forth. She'll happily work with the team of artists as a whole, as well as on her own when appropriate. She's an organised busy bee who likes to get get along with others to help a project reach its full potential, so she'll be at her smiling and enthusiastic best among like-minded people of a creative bent.

Sorrel being the Bladesong is a triple threat: an incredible soprano, an excellent dancer, and a swordswoman of some note. She's set to play Lady Guilia Igniseri, the Rubino-Zaffria vassal, in a stylish, charming way. She's quite involved in training the actors and actresses for the show, and she and Bliss are working out choreography for when Lady Alessandra Rubino and Lady Guilia bring swords into their squabble over who should get the world's most useless and undeserving prince, before making up and singing a brilliant duet about how neither of them need that particular man. Sorrel is mainly concerned with helping to showcase the talents of commoners whose livelihood she would like to boost with this all-star cast and in training those with less experience to have more confidence.

Yasmine will be bringing her formidable skills as an actress, singer, and dancer to the role of Carina Zaffria, the apple of her father's eye, yet not without considerable cunning of her own. In the part, the Ravashari embodies the dual characteristics of the 'stereotypical Lycene' by being both sweet and relatable to the audience while also conducting machinations to attempt to assert her own will. On the stage, Yasmine beguiles, whether with her ability to fully embody whatever role she plays, her rich contralto voice, or her expert dancing.

Lumen will be embodying the wicked Prince Marco, intermingling her on-brand impishness with the debonair stylings of a highness entirely lacking in moral high ground. This is not Lumen's stage debut. She portrayed a man in Lord Niklas Kennex's The Playwrights.

Delilah might be a pretty ornament to the stage, but her real threat originates in the province of the pen. Prince Niklas has scored the masterpiece for the stage, and she will be lending the ghostly weight of ink and inspiring words to seed excitement and interest far and very, very wide indeed. Given the Lycene flavour of things, she is gently applying a particular impression to build fascination or interest. That means scattering tidbits to the right people. Influencing the right sorts to carry on the word, to build up a buzz (even if they weren't all that aware before, they sure will be now...). She sends breathless excerpts into the Hundred Cities, stitching and building a train of anticipation about how good things are. Sentiments peppered with the taste of mysteries and drama on the stage, the historical wonders, the *intrigues*. Did we mention intrigues? Possibly scandal? The things that sell tickets and cement the memory are a grand tradition of developing stories, and she will spin one about the tireless playwright, the dashing and debonair actors, the brilliance waiting to be seen like a cut diamond until it's basically Hamilton 2.0 of Arx.

Alejandro takes his talents to the stage for a second time in this new production, playing the role of Lord Stefano Rubino. While his life's focus has typically been in music, he possesses enough natural charm and performing ability to once again handle an acting role. Putting his all into his performance, he focuses his time and practice mostly on the swordfighting aspects he may be called upon to perform. It's probably more a dance than a fight, so he feels comfortable enough. Alejandro works hard, devotes himself to the role, and attempts to put on a good performance.

Initially getting involved in this only for a lark, more or less, Tikva's largely present as a very dramatically loud _voice_ -- there are many actors and musicians in the city who she has no interest in intervening in the livelihoods of, but what weight she can lend to Niklas by putting her showmanship to use here, she does, cheerfully and with great embrace of absurdity.

Lady Evonleigh Whitehawk will be performing in Prince Niklas' play as one of the actresses, of course! She's been trained to do it all -- singing, dancing, comedy, tragedy... Though let's be honest: it's a good thing it's a musical comedy. While Evon's singing voice is sweet and on key, she has not the depth or richness of tone nor the range of a proper vocalist. Any songs she performs in are "sold" by virtue of her acting ability and her charm. The acting, she has the chops for, whether a comedic or dramatic scene, and she will do her best to win over the audience with every line, smile, or sob.

As a lover of the arts, and a tremendous fan of Gianna Whisper and her patron Prince Niklas, Countess Carita is very proud to support Prince Niklas' talents as a playwright and the Bard's College's very first theatrical performance by donating from her own personal funds. That the cast will be a group of people she has come to know well for their musical talents has made Carita dig deep in to her pockets to support them, adding 5000 silver to help ensure the production's success.

Aurora was the costumer the first time this performance was put on, and will reprise her role this time. The costumes don't change too much, just because its a musical this time doesn't mean there is a dramatic shift, though tailoring is done to ensure that the costumes fit their new wearers. More have had to be added too, to include the chorus and other stand ins on the stage.

Playing the role of Lady Alessandra Rubino, Bliss emerges onto the stage in her element - or at least, hopefully so. This role was practically written for her, and whether it's the swordfights, the speaking parts, or the saltarella, the Champion Whisper is more than able to keep up. Indeed, she's going to bring a high level of exuberance to the role, and while the swordfight will of course display skill with the weapon - it's not really about the speed of movement, is it? No, it's about how flashy and entertaining she can make it. Tricks that would never see the sands are going to come out in the show - movements of the blade meant to awe and impress. Hopefully no one gets too hurt, and if they do? Hey, that can be part of the show as well. Maybe even just having her name on the billing will bring in a certain type of fan, as well, that will increase the name recognition of the show. We can only hope.

Rook is, as ever, the hypeman. Patron of the arts, magnate, and philantropist. It's his duty to encourage people towards the burgeoning shows within Arx, and for those that aren't politely within his company simply to get something, they normally even listen to his suggestions. Utilising his extensive contacts within and outwith the Peerage, such as the merchant rungs, Rook targets high profile individuals for putting bums on seats for this event. For those that know his lovely partner, of course, Yasmine will be involved! For the royalists, oh by the Pantheon, House Grayson's own has authored it! It simply cannot be missed.

Caspian is the stunt trainer. He is showing the actors how to perform various stunts and choreographed fights and makes sure everything is nice and polished for when the curtains rise and the show begins.

Liara, with all her customary cheerfulness and passion, talks up the production no end, particularly among the more junior nobles of the Crownlands and of Arx with whom she so often associates. They simply must see it! Or so she says. She even sends a few letters back home to try and wrangle up visitors from Bastion, assuring them that it will be an unmissable spectacle.

There is no acting, no singing, no performances from Alarissa with regards to the latest production of Prince Niklas Grayson. Not in the least. Anyone who thinks they might see her get on a stage and act is going to be disappointed. But what she does do is promote the hell out of the production. She has a good reason to given the deal Niklas struck with her in exchange for applying her social weight. And so when she is out and about, at parties, fluttering a fan, sipping tea, eating with friends and perusing stores for the latest and greatest of trends, she's encouraging people to go see this latest production. Likely to be the talk of the town, filled with notable of society both noble and less than noble, prancing about the stage and giving their all. Shouldn't they go and support their fellow blooded? She thinks so, she's even going to be front row - well, up in a box and away from the rabble of course - and watching. And it's a way to help say you were -there- when this happened, and to indirectly support Thursday's Child in the process. Charity -and- entertainment all in one? Besides, it's bound to be entertaining in some fashion yes? Yes? Probably.

Prince Niklas Grayson is at it again. Or Lord Niklas Kennex? Something about the marriage contract and he's writing under his original name but then he's also Princess Sabella's husband and everyone knows Princess Sabella so now it's suddenly confusing. So they just start calling him The Playwright, and it sticks - and now no one has to remember surnames and contracts not their own.

In any case he's written a new play, calling this one not an opera but a musical. But the names have the starry-eyed among the theater in awe. Princess Sabella acts in her first title role as Princess Valentina, her turn both hilarious and touching. Her humor makes people gravitate toward her, and she is widely hailed as a resounding success in her inaugural role.

Princess Sorrel Thrax, Bladesong and Singer of Heroes, takes a break from astounding the Compact with her own work to perfom someone else's - and she too is a hit. In fact more people than usual come just to see her perform - can you really blame them? Of course not.

Yasmine Champagne, popular model, fashionista, and not-quite-as-scandalous-as-she-used-to-be Prodigal acts, sings, and dances her way across the stage. She reminds everyone why she is so often the talk of the town with another stellar performance.

Bliss Whisper plays a part too, and where her exceptional enthusiasm is, can the Nox'alfar be far away? The entire second floor is bought out opening night by a Nox'alfar delegation, who come en masse to see Bliss perform. They're only a little disruptive of course - their cries of BOO! every time Bliss leaves the stage, and the standing ovation that grinds everything to a halt when she enters gradually stop - about fifteen minutes before the end of the play.

Lumen, Radiant of the Whisper House herself, plays the lead in a performance by turns dark and witty. Sometimes both in the same turn. She outdoes herself and shows why she is so highly sought after in the Whisper house.

Princess Tikva, Alejandro Rossetti, and Lady Evonleigh join this all-star cast. Maybe some are taking it more seriously than others but this musical has it all - ranging from the dramatic to the comedic, there's a part to play for everyone and everyone has their part to play.

And where there is music, is the Nightingale very far behind? No she is not - Gianna Whisper wrote the music herself for this play. Sets are by the incomparable Lady Tabitha and they veritably take one's breath away. Aurora, the legendary seamstress, provides unbelievably beautiful costumes. Caspian trains the actors in their stunts, the Grandmaster of the Champions Guild helping make sure the fight scenes are entertaining indeed. It's like he's done this before.

Princess Elgana, Princess Berenice, Lady Delilah, Countess Carita, Princess Liara, Princess-Consort Alarissa, and the Redoubtable Rook all publicize the event. They're all going to opening night, and to random nights thereafter - and that's enough to ensure that this new play by The Playwright (who might be a Kennex or might be a Grayson or might be both but it doesn't matter) is a roaring success.

Sorrel gathers friends and family to her, around a warm brazier. "The time has come," she says, "To cleanse the primum and to sing the world as it truly is. This is my song. This is my ritual. Yours may be different, in turn, for it must truly come from you. I pray that each of you supports me wholeheartedly in this and that you take this as a sample to perform your own ritual."

"Let me sing you a song of love in thirteen verses, each one carefully written with time and creativity. Let me sing Love into the Dream with joy and sacrifice:"

Each bit of the song is pinned to a scrap of fabric that is meant to represent the person or thing the verse of the song is about. The first one is a scrap of violet baby blanket. The second one is a square of gray fabric with a Thrax sea serpent embroidered on it. The third is simply plain gray fabric. The fourth is a bit of aeterna, very plain. The fifth is another square of plain gray fabric, this one with the sigil of the King's Own. The sixth is a square of green seasilk with a sword worked upon it. The seventh is white silk with a spiraling red vine embroidered on it. The eighth is white aeterna edged in gold threads. The ninth is a dirty piece of wool. The tenth is brilliant green seasilk, embroidered with tiny clovers all over it. The eleventh is umbra with the sigil of House Wyrmguard embroidered thereon. The twelvth is also umbra, this time with the sigil of House Thrax. The thirteenth is umbra edged in gold. As the song is sung, the appropriate bit of fabric is placed into the brazier to be consumed.

1 Kyrios is a hope for the sanctity of life, a beautiful new thing being born, something that can grow into something new and greater than that which proceeded it:

Precious love of mine
For nine long months time
Small one within me
No greater love than thee

2 Galen is love. Passion, ambition, attraction, and all the things that attract people to one another. Let the world be full of love and lovers:

My great love for you is a burning flame
Now one and whole, we are never the same
Half of me is you; what am I to do?
To your dear love I will always be true.

3 Leona is faithfulness and fidelity, the choice of a dearest friend. Beautiful and true, a close bond of spirits in trust and friendship:

Sister not of body but of spirit.
To you do I tell secrets; you hear it.
A special bond of choice and freedom dear:
Our friendship in the purest sense is clear.

4 The Choir is a group of us with similar talents who all sing the Dream as it really is. Freedom and love and beauty:

Beautiful dreamers, listen now to me
Hear my song truly; it lets you be free
Power and strength coming with every note
Let the world be as my song is so wrote.

5 Corban is strength and honor, the true knight. Given the opportunity to do something the right way, he will take the path of righteousness:

Brother you are, though no brother you be
Like my own kin is how you are to me.
To you I entrust the most precious weight
Knowing that you are a knight very great

6 Luca was a Champion, and he stood for the honor of others. He also fights for the Light as a member of the Inquisition. Although he may not be a knight, he is a great man, admirable and true:

A fighter you are, champion to all
Dueling for true, never taking the fall.
Working for Light yet behind the closed door
We're lucky to have you give 'em what for!

7 Tikva represents sisterhood and platonic love. The sort of love that comforts you through tears and is joyful for you when you're joyful, love that melds in harmony:

Beautiful singer, sing your songs with me
Together meld in perfect harmony
Best friend and girl friend and companion true
I'll always be found singing next to you.

8 Ailith is Faith, a friend who has recently found her way to greater heights. Faith and love of the gods is important, a real true religious sort of love:

Peaceful, faithful, knowing of mystery,
Joyful, respectful, caring of history.
Guide me in the ways of the gods and love:
Advice that is tempered by those above.

9 Ian is loyalty. Love born of loyalty between soldiers, comrades in arms, in the field true. Love that is camaraderie:

Always at my back, you do yourself ride
Your right sword hand always at my side
Forever my protection with your men
Come! An adventure! I'll need you again!

10 Clover represents family love, the love that comes from sharing the same life growing up and the natural love and loyalty that inspires:

Beloved sister, bound by blood ties --
We would be best of friends yet anywise.
Bubbly temperament, always a joy:
When you were born, I was glad not a boy!

11 House Wyrmguard is where I grew up and how I developed my fascination with dragons. The love of House Wyrmguard, an ancient house, is one of fealty and devotion forever:

Though on the ground, the wyrms may yet lumber
The House recalls: Not all dragons slumber.
Danger is near? They will not surrender
As Valardin lives, they will remember.

12 House Thrax is where I married and to whom I currently owe fealty. Although I am not a sailor, I am learning to love the sea, and though I have reservations about some of their traditions, I am learning to love their culture:

A mariner's dream, so the current flows
Whenever the tide is out, there Thrax goes
Rough Islanders living off of the sea
One of their number is where you'll find me.

13 Music is what I want to fill the world with. Beautiful music is the song to which we should all live our lives, singing the Dream true and full of love:

A song is a song, but in the right key,
It can be a balm for you or for me.
All the world's dreams can be sung in music:
Finding the right words is the only trick.

Cora will learn the ritual through being present when Sorrel performs it so that she might perform it herself to teach others.

Sabella will quietly watch Sorrel's ritual with rapt attention!

Charlaine will learn the ritual through being present when Sorrel performs it. Charlaine will definitely try to perform it herself later in order to spread the knowledge and asisst in cleaning the primum.

Sparte will be present to observe, learn, and lend support.

Amari will sit in to watch Sorrel enact the ritual so she might learn and perform it herself (not nearly as awesomely, but she'll try her best when it's time)!

Having been invited to witness Sorrel's ritual, and hoping to learn it, Alexis attends to bear witness - and if necessary, offer protection, presuming any danger is even physical.

Carita will observe with awe, take notes as she listens, and quietly lends her support to the cleansing of the primum. There are moments when Sorrel's song brings tears to her eyes, or a smile to her face and while she might want to close her eyes to let that song wash over her, she doesn't so that she can witness every last moment.

Invited to bear witness to the ritual, Denica will stay with them and study with her so that she might perform the ritual herself someday.

Caspian watches the ritual with interest, and when it is over, he can already be seen scribbling down verse ideas!

Katarina is but one of many invited along to bear witness to the ritual that may very well begin cleansing the primum of its poison in the land. She listens, watches with rapt attention and intrigue, ready to help however she may.

Sina has been invited to witness the ritual to learn it. She has agreed to bear witness and learn, that the primum may be cleansed.

Ohboyohboyohboy! THIS IS IT! IT IS HAPPENING! /MAGIC/!!! Well, the first step towards it anyway. When Sorrel invites her to come observe the ritual, Caith is the first one there. Bright and early. Probably even before she and Galen and the baby are even awake that day. 'Don't mind me,' she'll shout through the door at the Thrax Estate. 'I'll just wait out here in the hall until you guys are ready!' A few minutes will go by. 'Are you ready now?' A few minutes more. 'How about now?' Five minutes later: 'Do you need help in there? Have you fallen down and hurts yourselves? Come on! Let's get a move on! IT'S RITUAL DAY! WHEEEE!' Caith is there with paper and pen and ink, all bright-eyed and bushy tailed and ready to take /NOTES/. And when Sorrel is done, she will ask /QUESTIONS/ to double-check, triple-check and cross-check her notes. Because, and maybe this isn't clear but: Caith is VERY INVESTED in this.

Bianca will also be observing so that in the future she too may perform and teach others for the betterment of all humanity.

Sasha will sit and carefully watch the ritual as Princess Sorrel performs it. She is eager to learn to so she can help the Primum be cleansed.

Olivia is likewise joining in to watch and learn!

Edain willl participate and observe the ritual. He will be somber and respectful, but he will be paying close attention. His intention is to attempt to perform this rite at Cairn Valardin in the very near future.

Desiree will be there to witness and study the ritual. She is hoping to learn to perform it.

Zoey will be there as well, watching and, knowing her, probably taking notes. Because ritual. Learning rituals. Et cetera.

Fredrik will, of course, join in these proceedings, knowing how valuable this ritual is, both for himself and for the Compact as a whole. For all our futures, it must be spread.

Reese will join this and will try to assist Sorrel however needed. She will attempt to pay close attention and to learn how to do the ritual herself so that such can be done when the time comes for her own. She will be respectful, helpful and largely quiet during the ritual.

Richard will be present in Sorrel's ritual. So that he may learn it and use it in the future.

Victus is here to learn. He doesn't know much about what he's looking at, so he's taking down notes with a quill and parchment and saving all the details in his head.

Kace will be joining in on the ceremony in order to learn the ritual that she might complete it herself someday soon.

Sorrel gathers friends and family to her, around a warm brazier. "The time has come," she says, "To cleanse the primum and to sing the world as it truly is. This is my song. This is my ritual. Yours may be different, in turn, for it must truly come from you. I pray that each of you supports me wholeheartedly in this and that you take this as a sample to perform your own ritual."

"Let me sing you a song of love in thirteen verses, each one carefully written with time and creativity. Let me sing Love into the Dream with joy and sacrifice."

And then she sings, feeding each slip of verse and a small piece of fabric into the fire, and with each one she weaves love through them all. The love of a child, the love for her husband. For her sister of the heart, for the choir. Freedom and strength, chivalry and righteousness. Honor and comfort, joy and harmony. Faith now, and loyalty. The love for family and home, the love for duty carried long through the generations, for fidelity and for music and happiness.

With each verse her love, deep and abiding and joyous, wraps around all of them. It pushes away the darkness, it pushes at the poison. She is seeking to reshape the future and her contribution is love, and there is one timeless moment where everyone assembled feels that love course through them. And while it fades, each of them knows they will remember always the strength of Sorrel's heart as she fights for the people she loves the most, for her family, for her friends, for the Compact, for humanity.

Lou is taking a group of scouts, guards, linguists, healers, and diplomats out into the Crownlands to do a general census and survey of the Shav'arvani clans. She is interested in getting knowledge about how many there are, their wants and desires, and to see if any of them would be open to negotiations about joining the Compact -- but is not asking them to join. Mostly, she's having her people gather information to take back to the King so he can make an informed decision regarding the shav'arvani populations moving forward. Her part in this will largely be for scouting purposes, to get people to the known shav'arvani clans she's visited. The guards will be there for protection purposes only (represented by military writs.)

She does not ask them to bend the knee, nor does she make threats that they must bend the knee. This is a diplomatic journey, as a way to open the door further down the road. It is, in essence, a first contact experience in order to bring back information to the King. And they are doing this all very, very quietly, or at least as quietly as they are able.

As part of the diplomacy, she'll have healers on standby to help any who might be suffering from diseases or injuries, and to share information about healing techniques with each other. She'll bring small gifts for the clans of things she feels they might need (represented by the addition of economic resources), and ask the diplomats to dispense with them where they think they will be most useful, and have the diplomats do the most talking with the aid of the various linguists. Generally, the message is to promote compromise and peace.

Lou is also interested in exploring their knowledge base with goings on of the shav'arvani villages in as much as whether or not people are still disappearing. If she feels the situation is appropriate, she'll ask to speak to any talented singers within the group, and offer them the knowledge of the Wolfheart Rhymes (@clues Wolfheart Rhymes, Part 1 and Wolfheart Rhymes, Part 2) without saying what tribe she got them from. She doesn't know much about the Rhymes themselves, other than that the people she went with to find them felt that they, in some way, offered protection -- especially Part 1 -- from the slaver and the gargantuans. It is not knowledge that can be researched, but it is knowledge she shares freely with those that seem to be friendly and untainted. She's not certain if the Rhymes will be useful or not, but figures it doesn't hurt to pass them along.

Prior to leaving Arx, Mia will be scouring for any information she can find on the areas they're heading to and the tribes that might be there. Historical records and maps are all well and good, yes, but she has the benefit of more recent information -- the masses of people that have flocked to her banners in the last year, ranging from the 10,000 that joined her a year past to the recent refugees that have joined the Compact. What she can gather, she will share with their scouts and diplomats, in order to help guide their movements.

Once done, Mia will be acting primarily as a diplomat (with the benefit of her skill in linguistics and her knowledge of multiple shav dialects) and as a healer, providing assistance to those who are part of the various tribes they come into contact with. She's long tended her husband's wounds, so the site of blood disturbs her little, and with several children of her own, she's familiar enough with the ailments of childhood. For as cool and reserved as she can sometimes seem, the locals may note that Mia has a particular fondness for children. A great deal of attention is paid to them and their needs and if she happens to earn the regard of any of the tribes for gentle care of the smallest and most vulnerable among them, or learn any new songs or rhymes from the children? Well, all the better.

Also accompanying her will be supplies, represented by my addition of economic resources to the action, in particular a number of leathers and furs that are common goods at the Twainfort. It's winter, after all, and a hard life out in the wilds. Someone needs to see them through to spring.

Despite the presence of hired guards, Valarian - as an expert with his blade - will be dressed non-threateningly, but keep his sword at his side and remain close to Lou and the other expedition members to ensure their safety.

Samantha will be participating as a member of the diplomatic team. She will be tapping her shav'arvani contacts in advance to let them know about the delegation while stressing the lack of any need to bend the knee, in the hope that they will encourage the clans and tribes encountered to be receptive to diplomatic approach.  She will make sure her fellow diplomats and others on the mission who are not otherwise educated on whatever traditions for the groups they encounter that she has knowledge of in order to show respect (obviously some of them will be well educated, like Mia). She'll basically do the job she's become known for. In addition to this, she will have a squad of the Deepwood Rangers come with the group, both as part of their security and defense (scouting, and the like), as well as to openly display the kind of elite position a Prodigal can achieve within the Deepwood military in particular. No recruitment, nor as Lou indicated, any bending knee requests or demands, but letting them see Prodigals in an advantageous position.

Oswyn is along as a field medic/healer. He pitches in a few resources for the procurement of gifts as well. Mostly, he's there to tag along, tend to any injuries or illnesses, and teach what he can about medicine.

Caspian is working to protect the group. His main objective is to stab what needs to be stabbing, and to not stab what doesn't need to be stabbing. He'll also give out candy to the children, because these kids probably never had candy before! Poor kids.

Lou's expedition into the Gray Forest does not come without risk. This is a forest that lately has been reported to potentially house gargantuans, cultists, and other denizens that serve the Horned God. And so Lou assembles a small but quiet group - swift moving, diplomats and scouts and warriors too. They even take Oswyn along in case they need a field medic.

And so they go, reaching out. Lou is the Pathfinder for the Explorers' Guild for a reason - she is very, very good at what she does. She scouts the safest places, the best paths to their destinations. Some villages they find in tact. Others not so much - some show signs of complete abandonment, hastily done. Each of those has a small shack at the outskirts, half-built. Some show signs of complete destruction, and where Lou once knew of a shav tribe's home there are only the charred remnants of wood and fallen burnt stone. Still others are worse - in perfect working order, devoid of people, and in the center of the villages a plaque. "Slaves," some read. "Sacrifice," others read. "Fodder," still others.

When they do find villages now, Samantha and Mia work the diplomatic angle and, being known to the shav here well, the Marquessa and the Countess find themselves quite well received indeed. These villagers want to talk about the Horned God, and are willing to do so to any who will listen.

What unfolds is a tale of sorrow and grief. They never know, they say, when they might be visited by the Horned God's cultists. Some villages have taken to a nomadic life to try to avoid being found. Others simply know that they'll be found wherever they are. The situation is ripe right now for someone to come and claim the land, in truth. "There's a rumor that says that if someone powerful enough has claim to you, then he can't just up and take. He needs permission." Whether it's true or not, the leaders insist, their people believe it. So while some shav are willing to take their chances? Others might be very willing indeed to bend the knee indeed.

With Caspian and Valarian there, talk also turns to protection of the villages. It seems there are less martial activities going on than one might suspect. "He's not raising an army," says one grizzled warrior. "An army we could fight. Or join. He's raising a religion. Cultists. Magic. Demons. Slaves. He doesn't care if you're willing, and all he wants is more sacrifices. More of the right kind of sacrifices that is, but I don't know what those are except we aren't special enough. Sometimes we hear rumors of horrifying giant monsters, but we haven't seen those in this place. And when his cultists come through, sometimes we hear whispers - they're focused on sacrificing everything at the Lodge, and they're looking for 'The Blood.' Whatever that is, it's hidden, even from his cultists, and they're very, very angry about that."

All in all, it's a successful journey - they bring back intelligence and information, and no one dies - but it leaves more uncertainty than ever.

(Reference: Request Ticket ID 9883 -- an effort to comply with requirements to expand land area) Nearby land area UNCLAIMED by any Lycene houses is surveyed, explored, and mapped to the west, south, and north to avoid being too close to Brasshall March, the closest Lycene holding to Saikland Greens. East is the bay. Shav villages and camps, areas in use by them are mapped and noted. Areas suitable for establishing a Cavalry Training Facility with necessary pastures, farms (feed, food, stockpiling for lean years), homes (workers/staff), lumber (fences, buildings, cook-fires), training trails in various terrains (woods, hills, shore, marsh, creeks, open, rough) with lengthy routes for coordinated exercises and endurance building rides for horses and men. (Not competitive with horse breeders but to give military an area for groups to use, return to their units and other sessions to start.) Students and instructors in this benefit Saikland by serving as an additional military presence and patrols along the perimeter trails to supplement Saikland military.

Saikland land area is too small, just 5 at present, and growing population and economy may well cause overcrowding and hardship for the people, something Lucita is stern in avoiding. (reference: Action 1963, Action 2116) Land area is also needed in order to establish the Cavalry Facility to help serve the Lycene and Compact military. 1500 economic resources are attached to this action to represent investment in infrastructure, roads, improvements and any necessary buildings. We hired (fee-4000 silver and 15 writs each) three Society of Explorers people to have mappers, surveyors, explorers, etc. to make sure this was done safely and properly. Several ships are available to use for transport of people and supplies.

Saik military and any who wish to support the effort move in to help map, explore, and establish a perimeter and patrol area to claim such area as is not in use by Shavs then follow the steps below when Shavs are encountered. We have already begun to increase our military, not to threaten but to prepare men to defend new holdings, maintain peace, oust hostile Shav's and help teach. Saik military added, a few at a time, during the fall and winter months of 1008-1009 were 15 infantry-150 mil, 3 pike-45 mil, 5 cavalry-150 mil, 5 archers-100 mil--an investment of 445 military resources to reach 200 army. An additional 1000 military resources are added to the action for Calvary Training Facility Trainers, staff and additional military-increases growth.

When Shavs are encountered, translators, diplomats and propagandaists are sent meet with them (military to ensure safety) to initiate peaceable negotiations aimed toward bending the knee and ensure no dangerous cults or factors endanger newly acquired areas. If hostile groups or cults exist or Shav's decline to bend the knee, they will have to be moved away from Saikland borders to avoid having enemies close at hand. Faith is consulted to confirm any bending the knee are meeting current faith efforts. Templars attached to the action and groups provided by Duchess Calypso protect diplomats and negotiators if attacked and handle any abyssals encountered. This is an attempt to build good relationships and avoid bloodshed if possible of those who may become useful, productive and content new citizens using techniques such as succeeded in the Southport action, but enemies can not be permitted to remain in or in dangerous proximity to Saikland. (Reference: Action by Calypso for Turmoil in Southport (Private Action, OOC Date: April 20, 2018.) Lucita has taken the time to learn Lycene Shav language so she can communicate directly with them. 1000 social resources are attached to this action to represent investment and support of these diplomatic, peaceable efforts.

Calypso will fully support this measure for the Barony of Saikland. She will commit 30 of her cavalry to the action as advisors in order to help identify the most ideal land.

Additionally, Calypso will rally House Grey Raptor to help explore these lands. These explorers should be able to ride forward and speak to Abandoned and help convince them to either work with Saik, move off the land, but PRIMARILY to join in with Saik. Grey Raptor has been one of the huge recipients of aid and faith after the Southport conflict and they would be the ideal force to ride with the cavalry and seek peaceful resolution. Prior to Grey Raptor leaving, Calypso would voice this as a test effort for Grey Raptor to move forward without causing violence. If they prove their ability, they will be some of the first to take the training and be able to ride more freely into exploration under proper training. She intends to turn them into a force of Rangers.

At the request of Baroness Lucita, the Faith are taking an active interest in this expansion, especially as it is liable to come across Shav tribes that might be integrated and to ensure it is done by the proper methods. Preston is taking a decent force of 200 cavalry 300 archers and 500 infantry (attached to the action) to monitor events. If the Faithful are threatened, or the Shavs turn out to worship the Abyss, or somehow the Shavs attack the Faith forces directly, they will intervene and put the Shavs to the sword, obeyind Gloria's tenants as they do of course. If the Shavs are willing to talk, the Godsworn of the group including Preston will explain proper worship of the Pantheon, and the benefits that come from the Faith - including training in proper ways of war by the Templars. The large force hopefully will convince the Shavs that fighting is a bad solution for this. The Faith will also bless the land for the cavalry facility in the name of Gloria for Lucita, and will let local Templars know to support the effort and make use of it.

Reese is coming to help Baroness Lucita. She would like to use her leadership skills, propaganda skills and experience in relating with Shavs to help try and speak with the Shavs and encourage them gently to join Saik. She will fight, but only in self-defense unless she runs into agents of the abyss. Then she will fight eh agents of the abyss. Reese will remain uninterested in using physical force or threats to encourage anyone to join, but she is very willing to turn on her charm, use her long history of relating well with Shavs and being fair to them and propaganda talk to them about the greatness of Baroness Lucita and Saik.

Look, Lord Karadoc Saik's here. Yes, he's trying to prove himself useful to this VERY IMPORTANT project to expand Saikland Greens lands into territory that's unclaimed by Lycene Houses but occupied by Lycaean Shav'arvani. Look, he's kinda wary about Prodigals, okay? He'll leave all the diplomacy and straight-talk to the diplomats, courtiers, and Whispers. He's working behind the curtain, again, to take care of this project's logistics (intellect) while keeping a very careful eye on supplies (economics.)

Friends help friends. And that's why Sasha is traveling with House Saik to help convince the peaceful tribe of Shavs to bend a knee. In this task the Oathlander turned Northerner throws her all, projecting to the tribe the poise and grace of a former princess, telling the Shavs all that they can gain from bending a knee; security, prosperity, and purpose in a strong and growing alliance of many people. She shows them goods that could be theirs if they join The Compact, food, clothing, tools - all things that they likely have limited access to due to the ban on trading with Shavs. All this to hopefully convince them that it is in their interest to swear fealty to The Compact.

Softest Whisper Saedrus is more than happy to assist Baroness Lucita and House Saik in their endeavour. He will accompany whatever groups lead out into the territories of abandoned tribes to help negotiations of land and joining the compact. It's all with a little charm and gentle diplomacy, with the aid of translators, he hopes to speak with the shav'arvani and see matters sorted out in benefit to the Saik and Abandoned peacefully. He brings with him social, economic and military favours (100 resources each) to help bolster the Saik's efforts.

Zebulon will provide his ship to Lucita to assist in ferrying supplies back and forth as needed to assist with the expansion of Saikland and cavalry camp setup.

Not only will Ariella be making the Red Bargain available for ferrying supplies to Saikland, but she will also be making regular patrols along the coasts in search of potential threats before they become a problem, while also acting as an escort with other cargo ships, her doughty group of sailors offering protection for those ships whose sailors may not have been battle hardened in places such as Setarco.

Leola acts as an outrider for the Saik forces. She knows the lands (Survival), knows what land will likely be valuable (Agriculture), and takes the opportunities to guide the Saik forces to the places that will be most of use to her liege.

Juliana will be using one of her ships from Isles Canines to join and help the Baroness in her quest. Having spent time amoung the Lycene Shavs before the war, to convince them to join Pravus in it's efforts, she will use that experience in working with these to show them how it will benefit them to side with the Baroness Lucita. Not only will she be using her charm and propaganda to help but as they move through the people, Juliana will also do what she can to treat those that need medical attention.

Duchess Calista Fidante offers her assistance in the form of hype and diplomacy. She is known for speaking elegantly and truly getting to the heart of various situations, easing the confusion of those who might be on the fence of bending the knee. She also gives good hype. Hype Hype Hype - Saik is great!

No vassal, even a non-direct one, is too small to not deserve the attention of the Archduchess of Lenosia. In fact, as a show of her respect and affection for House Saik, the Archduchess arrives in person to speak with whatever Abandoned tribes are found. She stresses the strength of not only House Saik, but of the unified Lyceum that stands behind them. Though sheer force of personality, Eleyna attempts to move and persuade them into bending the knee, painting it as an opportunity not just for protection for their tribe, but a chance to join the Compact, a force united against all those that would threaten it, from the Great Houses to the Prodigal tribes that bend the knee.

Scouting! Mapping! Exploring! Yes, that is what Caspian is doing. Working with the other Explorers, Caspian is doing his best to help map out the potential lands without having the party get killed or lost.

Eirene comes along in her official capacity as VOICE OF SOUTHPORT as well as a Healer of the Explorers to make this all official like if anyone has doubts about the validity of the expansion. She's there to ensure the new shav tribes are not diseased and to spread goodwill with her medical knowledge. She's also familiar with the general region if not the specific due to years of Malvici patrols and military exercises in the Saiklands.

Despite an army accompanying them, there's an awful lot of notables in this group of people, and Valarian is there to make sure anyone who would try to slip through and take a stab at any get stabbed first. Accordingly, the giant sellsword and Explorer will hang near the most vulnerable members of the party to provide defense.

Baroness-Regent Lucita Saik continues to strengthen her lands - this time with an expansion of her lands outward. Her Barony is becoming very used to having Very Important People in town to help them with infrastructure and building projects, and when they speak of Lucita now, they speak of her not as the wife of their former Baron-Regent, not as an Igniseri, but as the Baroness who is making sure their home thrives.

First, the Grey Raptor clan, recently-Prodigal shav from Southport arrive, at the direction of Duchess Calypso. Lady Eirene shows up in her role as Voice to help oversee the process, and they start scouting likely territories of receptive shav.

Then Sir Preston arrives with a sizeable force (for a non-Crusade, which is to say, sans trebuchet and sans completely overwhelming force) of Templars too, providing some muscle on behalf of the Faith. And by "muscle" here that is of course to say "measured conversations about the joys and benefits of the Faith.

Princess Reese also shows up to help lend her military expertise, along with Dame Leola, Grandmaster Caspian, and Valarian Harrow of the Crimson Blades. Their experiences and skillsets range from military to scouting, and they work with the Grey Raptors and Lady Eirene and her healers to find shav willing to bend the knee, and convince them through wily strategy not to fight.

Logistics are masterminded - errrr, organized! by Lord Karadoc, and he puts together the charts and plans and schedules for supplies and their transport. Supplies are ferried in to support both the military campaign and the expected expansion, with Lady Ariella's Red Bargain and Sir Zebulon's ship leading the way.

And then the diplomatic corps sweeps in. Alongside Baroness Lucita? Archduchess Eleyna herself comes to entreat people to join the Compact. Lady Calista is so cheerful and excited for this expansion of Saikland Greens. Lady Juliana uses her experience convincing shavs near Pravus to join the Compact and applies that to good effect. Whisper Saedrus helps ease negotiations with the Abandoned-hopefully-soon-to-be-Prodigal. Marquessa Sasha speaks eloquently of all they stand to gain.

In the end, this is a very successful campaign, and Baroness Lucita finds herself in the middle of a Barony that is suddenly quite a bit larger, with infrastructure projects ongoing, and new Prodigals bending the knee and starting to integrate to call Saikland Greens their home.

Jeffeth Bayweather and other members of the Champions Guild of Arx are going on tour! Sanctum! Bastion! Maelstrom! The Lyceum! Some of those other places! The Champions of Arx will be going on tour to show their prowess to the rest of the Compact. Put on a show to the populace outside of Arx, fight the local talent, show off their weapons! Charge local provinces to take the show to them using their showmanship and weapon abilities to dazzle the crowds and earn silver and economic resources!

What is Bliss particularly good at, compared to many of the other Champions? She has the passion and the drive to make her shows into full-on spectacles. While she does do her part in the dueling, she helps devise stunts, perform tricks, work on songs, make costumes, and choreograph shows in between the bouts. She is determined to make sure that the Champions Guild shines in its showmanship, and the Whisper tries to make sure that everything that's done is a new and exciting feat.

Lys is particularly interested in this! However, while she's a little bit of a brawl recently she's become more of an economist. So she'll help out Jeffeth by being behind the scenes (surprising we know), helping to work out prices for tickets, cover fees, and etc to try and get the most bang-for-their-bucks and get the most back while not making anyone angry.

This is HHHHHYYYYYYPPPPEEEE~! Or at least that is what Caspian is trying to achieve. He is traveling a day or two ahead of the band, making sure everyone who will listen is aware of The Champions of Arx's arrival, spinning tales of close, intense duels, hilarious antics, amazing performances, skills and duels for honor and pride.

Some of the better-known Champions have decided to do a Champions Tour of some of the major cities in Arvum. From Sanctum to Maelstrom, Lenosia to Farhaven, the Champions cross the breadth of the Compact and put on quite the show doing it. Wherever they go, they both sell tickets as entertainment and engage in duels with local champions and each other. It's both recruitment and showcase, while settling many a local duel, and while sometimes their fees are as exorbitant as usual, from time to time they'll take up a particularly amusing cause pro bono. In those cases, those who are dueled for often will tell casual stories of 'that time I hired Bliss Whisper as my Champion against so and so." The locals will be eating off those tales for years, and overall it's a rousing success both for the reputation of the Champions Guild, and for those who participate.

"People of the Mourning Isles. I come being the bearer of bad news. We are beset upon by by an enemy who shrouds himself in his ignorance. He has bent the knee to those who would destroy the world, taken every evil in his path for power. The Deep 'King' and his followers hold onto a dying past which they seek to rebuild on top of our ashes. For one thousand years Thrax has held these Isles together with the force of our might and we shall do so by a fucking thousand more.

The Isles will stand united as one. One fleet, one legion, one order to destroy the tide of darkness that seeks to swallow us all. Bear arms and army, ready yourselves across the deck. The time of Thrax is now and forever. We do not fall.

Tears in our wake, never at our wake.."

After fighting and dying against the forces of the Gyre for centuries and then some, High Lord Victus Thrax has launched an ultimatum: No inch of ground will be given without wading through an ocean of blood. The Maelstrom has stood the test of time and the Gyre's fleet shall not be appropriately named so long as he stands.

Victus calls the banners from every corner Thrax's influence reaches. Forces that owe allegiance to the Sea Serpent's banner and Allies of the Mourning Isles are called to join. The High Lord himself will be donning the mantle of General and Ruler, calling all armies and fleets to the Maelstrom to organize into one solidified presence. The 1st Thrax Fleet and the 1st Thrax Marines alike. Those with the skill of diplomacy and propaganda are asked to send his message through every street and upper echelon, to motivate and drive every Thraxian in defense of their home. In survival as a race.

Grimhall, Tyde and all vassals below them will receive similar calls to action and be invited to participate. The might of the Grim Legion, Tyde's Fleet and all those like them that would pledge support in this pact. Whether it's soldiers, agents, smugglers, diplomats, or priests offering prayer - all are welcome. All are going to be needed in this coming battle, and Victus calls them all.

He dubs this unified front "The Mourning Onslaught". He will spend his preparation ensuring that the name will be heard as a beacon of hope for all as its strength is soon to be put to the test.

Duke Grimhall sends his heralds throughout the domains loyal to his house. The letter they read is not subtle: all warships are summoned to battle. The foe which approaches is the enemy our race was born to fight, all true hearted warriors of Mourning blood will join the coming battles. Of the rest, any who refuse will be held in scorn and named faithless before Gods and men, treated as traitors once the war is won.

When Victus makes his declaration to Thrax and calls for the banners, Alarissa is standing there beside him literally and figuratively as a proper High Lord's wife - in the traditional sense - a solemn, respectful and calm figure, even going so far as to make sure she's holding the heir to thrax who has been carefully wrapped and swaddled in that thraxian shade of red.

In the subsequent days, she's visiting noble houses of those in the Thrax fealty, both high and low that Fatima hasn't. Where it is the liberal leaning houses, she brings Astrid with her, conversing with the house so that she can have with her a visual reminder of the change that they have been fighting for, has happened and the future that each house if they throw their full might or as many as they can spare, into helping overcome the pirate king. She's not above using her daughter for a little propaganda pimping. Yes, the wives if the nobles even get to hold her if they want and start the threads of their investment her future and that of Thrax - and in turn theirs and their children. The losses will be hard, but they are Thrax. They know hard and how to overcome and Alarissa is proud to have married into such strong and able people. That she looks up to them in these tumultous days for the strength to help Victus lead and protect all that they and she hold dear.

For the more traditional houses, she goes with Victus, having fed him the lines that he likely needs to speak if he needs them. She borrows a line so recently heard from Harald and encourages them to do the best thing for Thrax and that's to set sail with all that they have and can spare and "Make their ancestors jealous" of the stories that will be told in the days to come. She plays that part of proper wife, not a hair out of place and with complete confidence that Thrax will get through this with their full support.

Then there's the ladies. The wives of the sailors, the soldiers, the supporters of the men who lead, the ones who manage the finances and at times, know how to tip a spouse one way or the other to what they want and to make it seem like it was the spouse's choice. To tea she invites them, small intimate affairs of 'frank' conversations. It's going to be hard and in truth, some spouses will not be coming home. This is the fight for thier lives and the odds will be so much better if the full might of the fealty combines into the Onslaught. They are in for a battle, a war that has been a long time coming and it's time to face it with all weapons, at the ready. Even if it's just ones two hands tearing up cotton to make bandages to be used to help with the wounded.

Fatima, as a Voice and Princess of Thrax, is taking her place in gathering the banners. She starts by visiting all the Thrax nobles in Arx, having quiet, one-on-one conversations with every lord that has soldiers, sailors, or influence. She spreads out to the more distant lords next via letter, and then personal visits when necessary. She reminds them of the might of House Thrax, the alternatives of failure, and the rewards to be gained for a successful campaign. And above all else, she's going to go personally visit every noble that previously showed fear for her and ensure their banners are called.

Margot calls the banners of all of the Tyde Vassals to support the efforts to fight the Gyre. Insisting that the Northlands turn out (and quietly insinuating that she will be very disappointed if they can't put out a better showing than the Grimhall vassals).

As General of the Thrax Marines and by very nature of their status, Galen knew his men would be ready to fight. His cousins and diplomats had no doubt reached out to every noble across Arx, but Galen was different than the others, he certainly had many of the same connections, maybe even more than some, but, he also had the benefit of having literally sailed to every known port in the compact, a few very strange ones, and even Port Defiance, though this he didn't speak of openly.

Regardless the Prince knew how desperate these times were, so he summoned together his crew, his most trusted loyal men, and gave them some simple instructions, "Send word, by whatever means as far and wide as you can...To everyone, and I mean everyone who has ever had our aid in any way shape or form, let them know I am not asking for such in return, but now I need help, and I would appreciate such." his crew knew what that meant. You see, the Prince was known on the seas for both being a force of swift justice when needed, and the saving hand of grace, to people of good, or questionable character who found themselves in trouble and in his path, though if we are being honest, often Galen's path was directed toward them. His men would carry out his command with haste, to those around the isles and beyond, merchants, mercenaries, various ports, no doubt even to some of the Abandon themselves.

Galen know what was at stake, he wondered if the reason he was given what he had been given and done the things which he had done, had all been for the culmination of this moment, of this action, a need so great that he himself had to risk all favor he had earned, all alliances he had made, after all, this wasn't just for him, or his family, this was for everyone!

Magpie receives the notice from Victus and stares at it intently for a long time. Then the man stands before his people -- the Free Nation of Magpie (A Grayhope Enterprises Division) -- he raises his voice loudly, and calls out, "Magpie! Will you help Thrax in this battle?! Will you stand strong and fight with them?! Will you follow Victus Thrax to the tentacles of death?!?" ... The man lets silence settle, then finally answers himself. "Probably. If I have nothing else going on that day."

When it is time to raise banners, what can a commoner do? Answer the call, of course. But is there anything more?

Sparte has decided to speak with others of his choice to join Thrax in their darkest hour. To sign on with the banners in the face of the deadliest foe they've known since the reckoning. His audience may be Crownsworn and Prodigals, mainly, but he speaks to those in Arx who still seek a purpose for themselves or have had one stolen.

"I am not someone who was destined for greatness. I am no prince or lord. I herded sheep." Sparte gives a self effacing chuckle. "But when times were dark, and the Iron Guard gave the call, I answered. With so many others, I helped hold these walls. Just as I now stand to protect Thrax. Not because of faith in myself or the gods, but because of faith in people. Because I believed that there are those unable to protect themselves who are deserving. I don't know who they are. They may be mothers and fathers, they made be children, the sick or infirm. Injured soldiers who fought for us once, and can no longer raise a blade themselves. They may be righteous souls or cads and blagarts, I don't care. When true evil rises against the compact we know in our hearts if he has the strength to stand and fight."

"I am not asking you to follow me, I am not even asking you to join me in pledging to Thrax. I am asking you to find that fire within your own hearts. To recognize that no matter how dark the day may seem, the light of tomorrow must be fought for to see it through. All I want from you is to be able to say, when times were dark, others stood with me. Please stand with me, if you can. For those who cannot."

At the call by Victus, Catalana is compelled to have the people listen. Wanting to make her family proud, this Lady Kennex speaks to all of the nobles with the reach of her voice and beyond to plea that in order to survive this, we must unite. "Please....this is no time for petty squabbles. This is a time to set aside differences and to unite as people! We will face this head on and show our enemies that this is not a group that is divided...but united!"

Caspian Wild is going into every tavern and inn of Arx, singing renditions of popular Thraxian war songs that have a twist of being about fighting for The Mourning Ises and Thrax against The Gyre, with the goal is to inspire Thraxians to join the fight. To help things along he'll be buying rounds of drinks.

Many people find it easy to be around Caith -- she has a friendly and unassuming air about her. She is also a passionate and evocative storyteller. Leaning on these qualities, she goes around visiting various vassals. She spends many an evening with them by the fire, sharing a drink or two, listening to tales of their past glories and trading stories of heroic deeds.

The princess tells them tales of legendary heroes, of battles won, of days saved when all hope was thought to be lost. And as they sit together by the warm, rosy glow of the fire with drinks in hand, she tells them that it is in moments such a these -- this precipice that they all find themselves on -- when heroes rise up and legends are made. She points out that she can only tell these stories now because people, when faced with the toughest options in the darkest hour, made the brave choice. They stood up. They answered the call. If they had not, their names would have faded into obscurity until they were entirely forgotten; however, their heroic actions granted them immortality, their names and deeds living on beyond them.

Caith urges the vassals to become heroes themselves. Their deeds today will become the legends that will be spoken of for all time. Glory and honor!

High Lord Victus steps up next, calling on all Thraxians to prepare to set sail. No inch of ground, he declares, will be given without wading through an ocean of blood. Forces that owe allegiance to the Sea Serpent's banner and Allies of the Mourning Isles are called to join.

Duke Harald hears the call and stands now not just as Duke but as Warlord of Thrax. All warships are summoned to battle. All true hearted warriors of Mourning blood will join the coming battles. Any who refuse will be scorned and named faithless before Gods and men.

Princess-Consort Alarissa stands ready, solemn and respectful and calm, exhorting by diplomatic turn those who the others fail to reach. To progressive houses she brings Princess Astrid, encouraging them to respond to the call to banners while holding the visible reminder of the change they've been fighting for. She praises the strength of Thrax, knowing full well the might of the Isles and reminding them that this is the time to show that will and strength. To the more traditional houses she goes with Victus, encouraging them to make their ancestors jealous of the stories that will be told in the days to come. And of course, knowing how much power there is in the quiet talk of women she makes sure to speak with the women - whether they lead the houses or not - encouraging them to form a united front among progressives and traditionalists alike in supporting the call to banners.

Princess Fatima personally visits each noble Thraxian in Arx, using one-on-one conversations to encourage them as she might. She reminds them of the strength of Thrax, of the results failure may bring them, and the rewards for a successful campaign. She targets those who she knows already hold some awe (some might even say fear) of her, using intimidation where she can to its best effect.

Duchess Margot calls all Tyde sailors and vassals, insisting the Northlands turn out. In her own way she encourages them slyly - It sure would be a shame if Grimhall turned out more numbers than Tyde, wouldn't it? Let's not let that happen, shall we?

Prince Galen reaches out to people he's met in his travels across the land, asking everyone who has ever had Thraxian aid to come forth and join them. The Prince himself is well-known as a hospitable spirit, a man who will buy the drinks in a bar for complete strangers, and sometimes has a habit of turning up at just the right time when someone is in desperate need. And now it's time for old debts to be repaid.

Officer Sparte, newly in fealty to Thrax, shows his loyalty. Now he goes to the Crownsworn and speaks to them. I am not someone who was destined for greatness, he says. But with so many others I helped hold these walls. Just as I now stand to protect Thrax. Not because of faith in myself or the gods, but because of faith in people. Because I believed that there are those unable to protect themselves who are deserving. When true evil rises against the compact we know in our hearts if he has the strength to stand and fight. His speech wins the hearts of the commoners, and even more answer the call.

Lady Catalana emphasizes the need to stand together. Wanting to make her family proud, inspired to answer the call by Victus, she urges people to set aside petty squabbles and unite as people. To show their enemies that this is not a group divided, but united in one common goal! Meanwhile, Caspian visits the taverns and inns of Arx, singing renditions of popular Thraxian war songs. Everyone loves a good sea shanty, and every really loves to sing good sea shanties when someone else is buying the drinks.

Not to be left out, Princess Caith visits various vassals, spending evenings by the fire sharing a drink or two, listening to tales of their past glories, encouraging them to tell stories of heroic deeds. In turn she tells them of legendary heroes, battles won, of days saved when all hope was thought to be lost. And as they sit together by the warm, rosy glow of the fire with drinks in hand, she tells them that it is in moments such a these -- this precipice that they all find themselves on -- when heroes rise up and legends are made. She points out that she can only tell these stories now because people, when faced with the toughest options in the darkest hour, made the brave choice. They stood up. They answered the call.

With tales of glory, drinks in hand, with the urge to stand united, with diplomacy and orders and threats and cajoling, by any means possible the word goes out. Thrax is called to war!

Harald is gathering heralds and bards of the Isles to the Hall of Fallen Heroes in Grihem's Point. He will declare the summoning of all banners, and charge them with carrying his words to all lords and captains in the Grimhall chain of fealty: the war their race was born to fight is at hand. Mortal glory, immortal fame, and great wealth await those who answer, while scorn and terrible retribution will fall upon those who shrink from the battles ahead.

Vanora will be attempting to catch with honey any bannermen that Harald's fear and vinegar method does not work for completely. The Marquessa Kennex will use her charm and diplomatic skills to gently persuade those Harald calls upon to heed that call. She will be dong this via post for the most part as well as through persuading allies and friends among the Grimhall holdings to do so in person. She will be engaging with Kennex and vassals therein as well, for though the diplomatic endeavor that Octavia and Catalana will be undertaking when Kennex's own banners are called has not yet begun, she wants those she has sway over within Kennex to be ready when that summons appears. In addition among the Kennex lands still populated by new 'freedmen' she will be exercising her influence to encourage all recently freed thralls with any skills at sailing (or others useful in similar undertakings, such a ship and sail repair, ropeworks, etc) to join into this upcoming challenge faced by the Compact. These once-thralls will be reminded that they serve the Gods well and show thanks to those who cared for them when the step out to defend their homes. As well as reminded that unlike in many other trades, the widows and children of soldiers and sailors who lose their lives in battle are well care ford by the lieges.

A few particular persuasive letters will be sent in the direction of the zealot population settled into Stormward, reminding those among them that the upcoming battles are not strictly those of war but have legends implying it is a 'holy' clash as well, between the beloved gods of the Pantheon and the Heralds and Archfiends who would destroy what the Compact has built. These Orazians will be asked not only to consider offering their service to the vassals of Kennex and Grimhall, but also to use their preaching and engaging while in Stormward to mobilize freedmen to do the same.

With Edward I will use his Propaganda skill to gather as many combatants to the banners as possible. His Barony is so new it probably does not have any. So he will help others.

Turo sets about rallying the captains and soliders and sailors he knows with absolutely no hand-holding, nor discussion of future glory. Instead, he mixes a combination of straight-up ordering people to get to work, along with some mention of duty and whatnot. There's not a lot of yelling per se, but he's not really letting anyone give any excuses about why they couldn't possibly be involved in the upcoming war. He focusses on everyone doing their duty, whatever it might be, from the sailor to the captain to the ropemaker.

Faelan will be taking sailors and ships and going out to spread the word, and recruit every able bodied man he can convince to come aid in the coming battles. He'll be focusing on Navegant lands, but will also help out with Grimhall lands if it's needed. He'll mostly be relying on the soldier's fame earned during his previous battles in the ongoing war to help him draw men to the cause.

Ivarr will be grabbing his reavers and going out to press captains and vassals of Grimhall into rallying the banners. He will include pirate acquaintances he has met in this if they swear fealty. His angle: Leave the women to making laws and doing hard math, grab your axes, and come grab glory that will make your ancestors jealous . He is promising great glory, honour, fame, and the best deaths anyone could ask for. As extra incentive, he will burn down the hall of and crucify anyone left over from the first group to refuse the call to rally, using that as leverage against any captains that do not want to rally afterward.

Sameera, as per usual for her, is organizing the people and goods that will be going with the Grimhall fleets. She'll be rallying the Coldrains that wish to fight to do as such. She is assuring food, supplies, weaponry, etc, is all directed to where they need to be so they are most efficiently done. Those under her command are given orders on what they are to do, where they are to be, and clear procceedures on what they are to do.

Also, even if just rallying, Sameera IS assuring Grimhalls and THrax Family members are not at risk (AKA in a getting dead place).

Ian will go and do some drunken carousing with friends he has among the more martial noble NPCs among Harald's vassals. He'll regale them with some of the best Brothers Kennex stories (like the time Aethan decided to sneak up on a faster ship over open waters by hiding behind the swells, and everyone thought he was crazy, but then they did it, and you should have seen the LOOKS on the pirates' faces!) and listen to their battle stories as well. As a note: He will only be going to vassals of Grimhall, not vassals of Kennex. Ford has yet, as far as Ian knows, to mobilize his vassals, and Ian doesn't want to step on Ford's toes.

Wash will pick at least one outlying vassal with a limited naval force and sail out with the repopulated Kennex fleet. He'll invite them to participate in maneuvers, and share his knowledge of the enemy and sailing with them.

Darrow Darkwater visits the nobles and captains comprising both the Darkwater vassalage, and those of Grimhall and Kennex he's known from the many manuevers and actions in the past few years. He's known amongst them for not losing his head, and its this angle he will press - to firm the resolve of the armies to rally to the Darkwater Redoubt.

Though not a bard, Caspian will still answer the call to action as a bard, seeking audiences with those within the Grimhall chain of fealty to perform songs and poetry for them. These songs and poetry are meant to inspire courage, honor, and a desire for heroism while mocking those who hide away or do the bare minium as their brothers and sisters give it their all for glory.

Baroness Skye Blackshore answers the summons, offering to help even though she has no men to call to her banners. The brave young woman who looks like she can barely stand up in a fierce wind offers to command a ship against the Gyre, citing her sailing skills are her best talent. Hmmm, perhaps other vassals will be shamed by being upstaged by a petite little lady and answer Duke Grimhall's call.

Ember will have a frank talk with her military lieutenants rallying them to join the fight that is coming. She'll give a bold speech, telling her army that the might of Redreef is needed to help with the upcoming battles. There will be a lot of yelling and posturing, but the tiny woman is adept at getting her point across. Once her lieutenants and sailors are on board to fight, she'll pass that information along to the Thrax family, letting them know that Redreef will be present and geared and ready to fight.

Valdemar will be sending letters to Grimhall's vassals, making liberal use of terms like "honor", "duty", "loyalty" and so on in an attempt to fire them up for the fight to come against the Gyre and his minions.

Duke Harald calls the Grimhall banners with a decidedly less-gentle touch. Mortal glory, immortal fame, and great wealth await those who answer, while scorn and terrible retribution will fall upon those who shrink from the battles ahead. You cowards. Lord Valdemar Grimhall also assists, making liberal use of terms like "honor", "duty", and "loyalty" in an attempt to fire vassals up for the fight to come. Marquessa Vanora also lends her softer skills, persuasion and diplomacy her watchwords to convince even the hardest of hearts and the yellowest of cowards to join the join this holy war. Grimhall and its vassals respond surprisingly well to this three-pronged exhortation.

Baron Edward Stormbreak, needing little urging, follows suit, calling his banners to fame and glory. Count Turo Navegant doesn't ask so much as order, but he leads the way in preparing for war with Lord Faelan at his side. They are clearly expecting those well-accustomed to Turo's leadership to follow suit.

Sameera Coldrain works hard to get supplies organized for everyone, and make sure that as they're preparing for war they're doing so with ships well-stocked and mended, and enough provisions for all. Ivarr goes looking for pirates, who give him the finger and sail off, shouting about how they're not going to fight for him now when Thrax is openly going up against pirates, dammit. Don't they know The Code?

Lord Ian Kennex goes drinking - as Ian is wont to do - but uses this time to swap drinking stories with buddies in the Ebb and Flow. He regales them with stories and reminds them of the fun to be had on the open seas, even when times are Grim. Lord Wash Kennex for his part sails to train others in the Navy, hoping to coordinate ship maneuvers with them and encourage them to set sail.

Lord Darrow Darkwater also calls his banners, even as his people begin a mass evacuation. Here Caspian Wild plys his skills, using songs and poetry to inspire people to answer the call to arms and subtly shame those who don't.

And not to be left out, Baroness Ember Redreef and Baroness Skye Blackshore talk to the various troops, challenging them by their size and gender alone to prove they can fighter better than a couple of women. It's maybe not the most effective tactic, but it's not the least effective tactic either.

Grimhall and their vassals sail to war. -_-

As has been requested of her by the Voice of Telmar, Lord Corban Telmar, Lady Monique Greenmarch is calling the banners of Greenmarch. She may not be Voice anymore, but Monique is no less connected to her extended family and their vassals (some might say even more so now) and she can be very persuasive! She travels to Greenwood and throughout the area, rousing brave souls to fight under Greenmarch's banner, inspiring them to see Telmar as more than just some obscure liege in a distant city, but as someone who will actively fight for and protect them in turn! Duke Arn? No, he's fabulous. Really. Why? What've you heard ...

Though not related to Greenmarch in any way, Caspian will still be assisting by approaching some unwed ladies of Greenmarch's vassals and convincing after a bit of flattery and flirtation to ether send more troops to battle if they have such authority of to speak to their fathers, brothers, and other such family members about sending more troops.

Marius is lending Monique the requested aid of him being present or sending tokens out, by commanding his servants to help her along her journey rallying the banners.

Will help Monique by sending letters, writing out speaches for a clan representive that she will be sending with her

Zara is accompanying Monique as she travels throughout Greenwood, adding a Valadrin voice to stress the need behind the call and extra aid in the diplomatic efforts.

Duchess Cambria Mazetti calls the banners of Ostria to war. She reaches out to her vassals and her people, reminding them of unity and loyalty and fealty. She gives them gifts and encourages them to stand strong with Velenosa and Mazetti. Duke Hadrian stands with her, calling in favors and giving rousing speeches that remind everyone of the urgency of this call.

And they reach out to the abandoned in the area as well. Reminding them that if the Compact is trampled they are next in line. Offering sanctuary in turn for loyalty to the Compact and Mazetti. Sir Theron, Sword of Mazetti, offers this to those reluctant to join - an honorable challenge, a duel to first blood. If he wins, he offers, they join the Compact and fight for Mazetti. If he loses they are left alone - or they can join the Compact anyway if they prefer. Some take him up on the offer, and some lose - and some win and join anyway. Some few win and decline joining the Compact too, but House Mazetti keeps their word and moves on. Perhaps that will come back around and prove beneficial at some point in the future.

Lord Valerio works on integrating all forces together in a cohesive battle and deployment plan. Lord Giulio works on making sure these newly-joined prodigals are truly sincere. All in all, House Mazetti makes the call and their people respond, and their armies swell as they join the muster.