Medeia has a few theories about the origin of the masses of refugees appearing with little memory, especially those claiming to be from places that don't seem to exist. One theory hits close to home: They were all taken by the Eater of Stories, and they have somehow been returned. If this is true, it would mean that the breaking of all shackles in the wake of the death of Orichalcum resulted in the release of those shackled away from memory. How to prove it?

Medeia's older brother, Estaban, had claimed to have a twin - Emilio - that no one else can remember. According to Estaban, Emilio had been pursuing the Eater (maybe as part of his work as a member of the Inquisition) and got too close. If Emilio can be found among the refugees, it would prove this particular theory. And, if he can be found, it would restore a member of the Saik family to his rightful place.

It won't be easy, but Medeia ensures that everyone who is helping this search is equipped with a detailed sketch of Estaban (And the rest of the siblings - maybe they weren't identical! Medeia and Neilda aren't, after all.) to compare to. While she helps the Physicians tend refugees, she pays extra close attention to men with Lycene accents who would be about 30 years of age. And she engages every part of her whisper network to have eyes in places she cannot be. If Emilio is out there, someone will know something, and she intends to keeps asking questions until he's found.

Emelio was a topic that Estaban spoke of to Lucita on many occasions, what he looked like, how he missed his twin, how none of the other siblings and parents, friends, servants, other Inquisition members remembered him. Journals, family records, old school notes, all were missing references to Emilio yet Estaban remembered him so clearly. Perhaps some information has reappeared so those records are being reviewed again.

People change over the years but some things remain the same. Mannerisms, habits, expressions, a physical build, coloration are often the same with twins, and that is what Lucita will be looking for. She can eliminate a lot of the refugees due to sex, complexion hue, height and such details not matching what Estaban said. She does not know if his age 'froze' at the time he disappeared or if his experiences 'aged' him so will be observing expressions, movements, mannerisms in an effort to narrow down and identify Emilio if she can as she looks through the many crowds of refugees.

Quenia lends her own resources and asks her own information network to start combing through the refugees to see if they can find the missing Lord Emilio Saik. She makes sure they are given miniature paintings of Estaban, in case they were identical and just so they are aware of the familial traits if they are not. She also personally goes along with any member of their more immediate party to ensure no one is asking around alone, making use of the buddy system in case trouble arises. People without memories might be a bit more upset than they imagine.

Duarte lends support through his own information channels, sending some friends of his to scour around. His friends don't seem like the proper sort. They certainly aren't nobles or noble house staff. They're the sort that can get into different nooks and crannies entirely, especially ones someone who doesn't want to be found might be hiding in.

Denica will take what information she hears about Emilio and try to improve the pictures they have of him. Listening to anyone who might describe him, using what she thinks, but also just trying to immerse herself in the knowledge of the man to paint him. Denica will continue to paint portraits of Emilio, not only to share with others, but she hopes that through painting his image, she might connect with him and get a sense of where he might be.

Faye has been around the House of Questions since she was a child, and she still has a few odds-and-ends records of her father's, from when he was Master of Questions. While she has no memory of a man named Emilio, perhaps his name can be found somewhere in the old records, along with an account of what happened to him.

As Medeia informs him that her brother Emilio was a member of the Inquisition, and many of their number were devoured by the Eater of Stories, Alistair gives Medeia access to Inquisition records and old rosters. Perhaps an old report or paper mentions her brother and helps her identify the man in the throngs of thousands that now flood the city.

House Velenosa has a vast array of various resources at their disposal and is not afraid to use them! Jaenelle reaches out to every city and assigns a team to make sure informatio flows freely between the Lyceum to make certain that if something is needed at one end by a city on the other it is easily accessed through well trained planners and logistics department. This includes missing people, as one of the first things the team is responsible for is matching refugees with whatever cities they remember in hopes that their family is there and remembers. Emilio's description, his history, and any other information that is found in the process are sent through the proper channels in hopes that if he is somewhere, he is found.

Emilio is not to be found among the refugees. Emilio will never be found at all. And unfortunately, Medeia is able to discover why.

As they work with the refugees, and now have magic to take a closer look at Azazel's magic, they come to a horrifying realization as they look at some of the most traumatic suppressed memories of the refugees. Azazel's first writ, the one placed on him long ago, empowered him to enforce the Despite as the only time he could take mortal lives- ostensibly as a last ditch effort to prevent another Reckoning and awakening Baalphrigor. Overtime, the Despite of Fable twisted, and became the suppression of quite nearly anything magical at all- and when someone strayed over that, Azazel killed them. He consumed them, and devoured the knowledge that they had ever been. He ate them, and he ate all traces of them.

The missing, the forgotten, they're all dead. Azazel killed them personally.

And they are left with that, as they deal with refugees talking about whole cities no one remembers. Thousands. Tens of thousands. Hundreds of thousands.

Azazel intends genocide, and he is coming with an army to do so.

A promise was made to the Shadowspeaker Clan to free them from their life of servitude and sever their connection to the hive that controlled them. A promise made by Eleyna and reaffirmed by Jaenelle. Some were freed (Action 3696), while others clung to their writ as if a life saver and refused to accept the aid, Those that were freed settled in Lenosia while a few went to Iasu. With writs broken and no longer able to be created, those that were too far gone to accept the assistance will most likelt require it now. With the assistance of the Shadowspeakers that have made lives for themselves within the Lyceum, it is Jaenelle's hope that those lost without memories that arrive to the cities within the Lyceum could be identified as members of the Shadowspeaker Clan and reunited with those who were lost to them when their path's split.

Jaenelle is an experienced Soul Healer, and now with her new found availability to magic she is able to control her abilities a bit more. She hopes that she is able to assist those without memory by looking in their souls. She has the ability whie soul healing to view the memories of others, and she hopes that while looking she is able to draw memories out and reestablish their connection to the person who lived them. Memories of family, of hope and love, of a time when they were free to think on their own. She also hopes that while looking at memories she can piece together the things that are unknown like the maps and where they had been.

Jan will use her knowledge of managing large groups of people in often less than ideal circumstances. She will create bundles of items the refugees will need. A few changes of clothes, a pair of boots, a belt, a military-rucksack meant to carry everything a soldier may need but in this case instead of armor and weapons it's a waterskin, a few days dry rations, a wool blanket and bedroll, parchment and pencil, and a tinderbox with flint. All of this is neatly packaged and arranged so as refugees are sorted and sent on their way they have the bare necessities for their journey where ever it takes them.

Medeia includes Jaenelle's intentions in her considerations as she works with the people of Saikland to handle any refugees coming into the villages of the barony. As they are screened ase settled or transported to other holdings that may be better able to support them (or be where they belong), she makes sure that anyone who is either a now-writ-free Shadowspeaker or who might be affiliated in some way is connected with those who are coordinating Jaenelle's efforts.

Quenia will use her considerable charm and skill with persuasion to speak to the refugees and get them sorted into proper homes. Any that could be identified as Shadowspeakers, either through word of mouth or marks will be directed to Jaenelle for additional services and/or healing as needed before they are reunited with the settled Shadowspeaker Clan/Tribe living on Lenosia lands.

Thea will help aide those refugees with as much guidance as she can. She will listen and take notes, checking to see which famil and or home they come from. Try to reconnect them. If there is no home to go to, she will see how that can be fixed as well.

An undertaking of this magnitude requires someone experienced with logistics and record keeping. Arman hopes to use his skills to ensure the Archduchess is able to work her abilities in a timely manner, managing the influx of refugees, and reconnecting those to their proper kin. In addition, those who cannot be directly linked he hopes to channel to an area of the Lyceum where an influx of residences would both be welcome and benefical.

When the archduchess calls you answer. At least Theo does. Theo will meet and greet the refugees and see what kind of needs to be met. Making a tally of sorts to make sure it happens. Encouraging them that the archduchess only wants to help and seeks after their well being.

During time spent talking with Jaenelle, she explained what a toll emotionally that looking into the souls and memories of others takes. To support her in the effort, Lucita is looking through her music collection and writing songs that are the equivalent of 'comfort food'. They are to lighten the spirit, comfort, remind of familiar pleasant times and amuse so that the burden Jaenelle has becomes more bearable and strengthens her. She attempts to use spellsong when possible and if that does not seem to be working, she uses plain-song.

Berenice is not really built for the /field/, but needs must. She'll mostly try to aim her focus at the Shadowspeakers /leadership/, speaking /persuasively/ and /diplomatically/ (hopefully) about the value of being among the vassals of the great House Velenosa.

Pasquale brings a number of Malespero volunteers and medics along to help find and tend to the newly freed Shadowspeakers (and those refugees who get mixed up with them.) He ensures that Jan's aid packs are well funded and that she has all the help she might needs creating and distributing them. Finally, should any of the refugees wish it he will see to their passage to Nilanza.

Duchess Calista Fidante is well known for her abilities to assuage the masses. In times of troubles such as these, she has been able to offer assistance in bringing comfort to those who desperately need it. When the refugees show up in Tor, Calista forms a special team of highly skilled and trained healers, apothecaries, trained guards, servants and general good doers to tend to the refugees, and offer them comforts while they are brought up to date on all current events. In addition to this team, Calista works closely with other leaders to help fill these gaps and try to get to the bottom of what is happening.

Vitalis has been party to the finding and fighting and restoring of the Shadowspeakers, from a gut full of rusty steel in the burrows under the Lodge of Petrichor where cultists fought and fled leaving traces that lead to the Lyceum, to forays to defang recalcitrant clans, or reaffirm support to those who broke away and pledged themselves free of abyssal influence. He joins Jaenelle (because, like Theo, when the Archduchess calls...) to find and shepherd the group's efforts.

He joins Arman in being the pointy end of the Prince's logistical planning -- the man on the ground implementing those plans. Expedition leader while the group is in transit from place to place. The group's physical well-being as they travel is his primary concern.

(and he gives a load of really comfy wool socks with cheese wheels embroidered on them to Jan for her bundles)

Diplomacy mission? Who better than the Archduke Noah Velenosa himself? He is sure to create some sort of stir. If Jaenelle's going (and he hears about it), so then is Noah. While the others are there talking about the values of Velenosa and joining together (maybe holding hands and singing). Noah has one goal. That goal is that Jae goes in. Jae comes out. So he is armed with all his pointy little blades of 'diplomacy'. If needed, he is more than willing to use each and every one of them. Mostly, he's just there to be stoic and observe, offer a few 'hmms', and keep his blades at ready.

They love Jaenelle. They really do. Everyone helps a great deal, and their efforts to help the refugees will see many settle to become productive members of Lenosia and dependable subjects of House Velenosa. But it's the Archduchess that the Shadowspeakers really look to, putting aside much of their long lingering traumas and ties to darkness at the comfort she offers. They are soothed, and many will be proud to call Lenosia home.

But as many regain their memories, all too many are concerned for Lenosia's future, and whether it and the Lyceum can withstand what is coming.

To strengthen the Lyceum's legacy and form things that will stand the test of time, the Lyceum's past must be understood and accepted. Malrico was a large part of the history, good or bad, its a simple truth and when he was killed it did not change the fact that he had his fingers in more pies than people knew. After his death a map was found, and while it was not like any other map it was clear that it led to something and whatever that was was connected to the Prodigal. Sierra and Sienna brought the map to Jaenelle, and from there it was decided that they would finally figure out the strange symbols and unusual landscape to see where the map would lead them. There is no possible way to know what is at the end of the journey, but whatever it is is part of their history they will take back for themselves.

Jaenelle will use her magesight to attempt to work out the odd map, looking for any clues which may help reading it go smoother as well as finding where the map leads.

Sierra is, naturally, joining on the adventure as one of the providers of the map. Though she can more or less defend herself if need be she is more offering her support as the map owner (well half the map owner since her twin also holds it) and provide support as a more social type or healer type.

Medeia is not the explorer type her sister is, but she is in possession of a vast amount of Lycuem history in her library pertaining to Malrico, the True Lyceum, House Pravus, various Metallics favoring Lycene holdings (like Platinum for Saik, Brass for Hawkmour), and on and on. This map is weird, but so is the history of the Lyceum! There is bound to be some hint to understanding the map somewhere within all of her shelves. Further, the map is probably magical and/or Abyssal. Medeia will further look into any information she might have and consult with her colleagues at the school of the occult in Nilanza to see about uncovering anything that might suggest how to use the map or ensure safety while doing so.

Thea likes a good adventure. It’s been a hot minute since it’s been one for enjoyment. She’ll likely try and show the others how they can be of use, whether it be the map or directing them to some of the others to see in which way they would be better suited.

Pasquale uses his skills in riddles, ciphers and maps to help decipher what the map is telling them. The past informs the future and perhaps there are great lessons to be learned wherever it leads.

Jeffeth is a Knight of Solace sworn to the protection of travelers under the light of Gild. And this is clearly a civilization building exercise. And also also - Jaenelle's the one asking. So of course he takes up the task to accompany the journey and serve as a veritable mobile fortress of defense against anyone foolish enough to try and even singe a hair on the Archduchess' head.

Vasile is a grand strategist. To the point he knows how to move pieces and make sure work continues even when things seem too dynamic for planning. He will employ his strategy expertise to make sure things go smoothly.

Vitalis has ideas about the map, he stares at it intently, but he isn't as learned on the matters at hand as Medeia, nor as gifted with ciphers and riddles as Pasquale. Maybe he'll see something. When they've unlocked the secrets of the map, he does what the Ghost of Ostria does, scouts ahead and makes sure that there are no nasty surprises.

Noah is bored and a little adventure could handle some of that. It could perhaps be because he's been researching Velenosa and languages for a bit. Or it could be that this is his final boss level (it's been a good ride). Regardless, Noah is going with his normal flair for diplomacy and relations - this means he's using his brain for figuring things out and perhaps his persuasion at dagger point if needed. He will research what he can about the map and assist how he can.

Arman considers himself an expert on the history of the Lyceum and on the top of Malrico. As much as one can hope to understand a Herald and the shifting landscape of the 100 cities. Arman hopes to use his expertise and intellect to help decipher the map, wherever it may lead.

It's not easy to find. In fact, it's nearly impossible to find, hidden amongst so much else.

There's a villa in Lenosia. It looks older than most, and it's in among the residences in the oldest part of the city, but it escapes notice as one small villa amongst the very many. It's only on careful investigation that the villa, truthfully designed to be overlooked, has an odd quirk- no one in living memory can ever remember a single person ever entering it or leaving.

Inside the villa, it's simply decorated, and exactly in the style that seems modern enough, and completely unexceptionable. But it doesn't quite make sense, as the place is spotless, but there's no evidence of anyone ever coming in to see to it, or clean it. The Archduchess is able to determine why.

The place is under a powerful glamour, and as she unravels the magical threads around the villa, it becomes clear the spell is old. Extremely old. Older than the Lyceum. Older than the Hundred Cities.

Older by far.

It's a very simple stone hut that is revealed after the glamour is dispelled, and a well hidden trap door in the floor of the place. Descending, they discover an immaculate carved stone passageway leading to an underground chapel constructed of pure gold, and adorned with every gem imaginable. Abyssal script lines the walls. A shrine to Avarice.

The shrine has a mural, telling a story. It shows the very first humans in Arvum, possibly escaped slaves from the elves, and shows their fear and hate directed towards their once captors. It shows a group of humans praying for salvation, and then an image of someone that looks all too like Malrico. It shows the Hundred Cities being built as his direction, with working in allies in Setarco. It then shows the destruction of Caer'alfar, and Malrico holding 13 diamond rings, and then dispatching them out.

The mural ends with several displays. There's a robed figure that looks very much like the Horned God trying to wake the moon, and Malrico recollecting the 13 rings. The final picture shows him placing the rings in a box of black diamond, and the rings shattering, and Malrico casting down the Archfiend Avarice, and ascending to godhood in her place.

On the altar rests a box of black diamond. There's a note written in elegant handwriting that says simply, "To the victors."

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.

At the war council held by High Lady Liara Grayson, the problem of the thorn barrier was brought up. As a surprise to no one, Archduke Patrizio Pravus suggested fire. With both Arvani Fire and the thornweave poisons being alchemical works, an idea popped into Medeia's head in the moment, and she suggested that she and other trusted alchemists should work together to create a poison-fire hybrid that would be formulated specifically to burn away the thorns. The Voices of the realm who were present supported this plan.

In the time since that meeting, Medeia has been hard at work getting everything organized for undertaking the experimentation that will be needed. An expedition of brave souls was sent to the barony of Gilthern in the Crownlands to collect samples of the thorn vines. No one died! Approximately 35 feet of vine was recovered - in seven five-foot lengths. Additional conversations have been had regarding gaining access to supplies of both Thraxian Fire and Arvani Fire - in case one is more suited to the hybridization than the other, and determining the best way to deliver the resulting concoction. Further, she has reached out to some of the best and brightest alchemical minds in the city to assist with the work.

When the time comes and supplies are at hand, Medeia offers Seawatch Sanctuary as a workspace and staging ground. She has cleared the estate of anything and anyone valuable - if anything goes wrong with the Arvani Fire, she has prepared to lose the building. Of course, she hopes it does not come to that. Before she begins, she lifts prayers to several of the gods: Petrichor to help them destroy the tainted thornweave, Lagoma to support the cleansing power of fire, Skald for the freedom of choice that defeating the Traitor will secure... She encourages others to join her and lift their own prayers to the gods, as well.

Then? It is time to work. Within the limited time and resources available, every possible combination of thornweave poison and Thraxian or Arvani Fire is tested. It is hard enough to make the thornweave poison. She pours the whole of her concentration into achieving this, single-mindedly concentrating on success and pouring all of her energy into the final outcome.

Chemicals and items to produce the earlier version, Goop, that was helpful in killing smaller thorny vines was expensive. Saik has offered 3000 economic resources, 1000 military and 200,000 silver should it be needed to help this effort be successful. (ooc it is in Lucita's inventory)

On a personal level, as a singer, she plans to wait till samples of thorny vines are available, seedlings, clippings or seeds, then assist the Alchemist effort by spell-singing to help stimulate vine growth to both harvest the sap and later to have samples to test effects.

Patrizio Pravus, indeed, was the one who suggested the use of fire against the thorns - it is effective as a deterrent against the abyssal trees that besiege the southern city of Pieros in the Saffron, along with the earthworks erected to the south of the city. Given his suggestion to build a palisade about the thorn field and ignite the plants beyond, he's present to consider how best to apply the result and to ensure that it does not backfire to harm the forces of the Compact.

In order to help the alchemists, many of whom are part of her very own Auxiliary branch of the Physicians, Giada makes sure that all non-thorn supplies are ample and immediately at hand. She also shares a couple of momentos with Medeia, handing over a piece of withered vine and a hardened nub of sap that she had collected from the Whisper House vines. This is to allow the alchemists to find similarities (if they exist) that might help inform the process.

Mirari is well versed in alchemy, specifically poisons, so she will bring these skills to the table. Here to assist in the creation of a substance combine poisons and fire, she will help with the development and testing of the concoction working together with the other alchemists. Mirari will contribute her staff at Of Works Obscura to help as well, as she does have a few alchemists under her employ as well.

Fatima has put herself in charge of obtaining the Thraxian Fire, since she is after all a Thrax. She has obtained permission from Alarissa to take as much Thrax Fire as needed, and House Thrax will provide however many resources are necessary for this. Siege weapons are also available for the delivery method, should the experiments prove successful. If the experiment is successful, she'll ensure that enough Thrax Fire is provided for a large operation against the Wall of Thorns. She will use the Isles Canines ships to ferry the stuff wherever it needs to go.

Thea took part in the expedition, so naturally she would want to help contribute to the alchemy part as well. With the knowledge she's gained regarding alchemy, magic, herbalism, and a few other things, she begins getting to work.

Mabelle has had her share of experimenting with alchemy lately and once again she lends her talents to the aide of the city. She leaves her valuables at home, including her pets, wears her armor and set out. A vial of her previously concucted elixir against the minions of the Traitor at hand, she helps out with all the dreadfully dangerous mixing.

Isolde isn't exactly an expert or even a novice when it comes to alchemy or even magical plantlife. She does have some experience in gathering and organising supplies, however. She will offer whatever logistical support is needed and ensure there's always money available.

Galatea's alchemical creations have in fact been used before to destroy magical trees--more or less melting one of them down through the roots, some years previously. This was originally a mixture created for the Iron Guard to separate base metals from noble metals. It had the side benefit of also being entirely lethal to organic matter. Thus, it's the 'poison' side of the equation that she focuses on, more than the fire. In the spirit of cooperation, Galatea shares everything about this past creation, in order to better create a foundation for subtances that would quickly dissolve bark and vine. The presence of sample vines likewise provides an excellent opportunity for any pre-modern scientist's favorite activity: experimentation. There was perhaps a touch of manic excitement about Galatea as she poured one highly poisonous mixture after another on these samples to figure out just what would be most lethal. Perhaps she even managed to avoid inhaling toxic fumes herself. (Safety protocols sometimes fall slightly by the wayside when she gets like this.) She is prepared to spend a truly considerable amount of economic resources to get the job done, if need be.

Jaenelle is assisting in a more leadership role than actually assisting in the creating of the poisons. She makes sure people have what they need when they need it, and brings people together to make sure support is at hand. She has connections, she has the resources, and people tend to do what she says when she wants something done.

Eirene is one of the originators of the Thornweave poison, so it's only sensible she's on board for this. She uses her arcane and alchemical knowledge to try to weave together herbalism, alchemy, and magic because this seems like the occasion for all three.

Lianne's new to this project, but not to these concepts. Mostly, she'll follow others' leads, acknowledging their expertise on this subject matter. When appropriate, she shares her own expertise, familiar with the occult, with Blight, with the way magic works and how unpredictable it can be, how unlike science. Thematic narrative might not usually have a role in alchemy, but it may help here.

It takes a tremendous amount of work and experimentation to create the hybrid substance, as Arvani fire really is not keen to be mixed with quite nearly anything. But eventually, after much effort, they are able to merge it with the solvent, and no plant growth sands much of a chance against it. They launch it at the hedge, and vast swaths are immediately destroyed, to much cheering by the troops gathered there. Only it immediately grows back with extremely disconcerting speed.

But then the scouts inform Medeia of a discovery- that the Hedge is powered by the Horned God's magic tied with the moon, of the dead god he seeks to raise. And the tall towers of Harrow Hall block one particular segment from being touched by moonlight. Medeia goes there.

Jaenelle uses her new found magical abilities in hopes of recreating the ships she has seen in the dockyard owned by foreign entities with spidersilk sails that have the ability to take their sailors further, faster, and easier. She hopes to take the spidersilk she oversaw the creation of and bring it to the next step in using it for something more than just being a pretty adornment but furthering the practical uses by enhancing the Lyceum's abilities to explore and bolster their presence at sea. She will use her powers to create six sails (She has already given each house a caravel previously, so maybe enhanced caravel sails?), one for Houses Velenosa, Malvici, Fidante, Mazetti, Malespero, and Rubino-Zaffria.

The largest surprise is how taxing it is to Jaenelle personally. It is just exhausting work, each sail she works on to bind magically takes her more than a full day, and is precarious, exacting work. She feels the natural order of things trying to pull it apart, and she has to weave it carefully, tenaciously, feeling the sails are a metaphorical representation of holding the Lyceum together. But she does. She doesn't lose any of the sails, and at long last, they are done- and the ships are -fast-.

There have always been rumors of the founding of the Lyceum, there have always been stories of things that might not make sense or sound completely logical that have been shared through generations or used as warnings to keep Lycenes from leaning too heavily into the stereotypes other Fealties believe. The signs of the unknown and mystical have always been there.

Though the Lyceum is often skeptical of others, they are also very pragmatic when it comes to issues and problems that need to be solved. The people of the Lyceum are reminded that House Velenosa has always protected them throughout the years even if they did not know what they were being protected for. The people are invited to the Princess Jaenelle Velenosa Library within Lenosia to learn and explore the stories further and to educate themselves even better on the currect state of the world. The people are reminded of the Watchtowers, and how they are used as a warning system to prevent surprises. The people are reminded of the caravels that House Velenosa assisted each house in gaining to better prepare for any occasion. The people are reminded that the cities have been reinforced to aide each territory in defending the people who call the cities home. The people are reminded that despite the chaos that appears to have always been there without their knowledge, the Lyceum has flourished and will continue to do so.

Duchess of Roses, Calista Fidante, returns to her beloved city of Tor to ensure the people there that they are safe. She follows the Archduchess' lead in reminding the people of Tor of all the good fortune that has come to the Lyceum as a whole. She is a well educated woman and well informed in this rich history of the Lyceum and the stories of how it came to be. While in Tor, Calista hosts open audience hours at the castle and is a constant presence at the Torean Shrine of the Thirteenth and at the local market. Her purpose is not only to be transparent with her people, but more importantly to show them that she understands their concerns and reinforce their safety.

Medeia takes the stories that Jaenelle especially wants to highlight and begins to share them with Lycenes and guests at the Black Fox and Hundred Cities Inn. Calling upon her storytelling skills, she makes sure to speak just a little too loudly so that each tale draws a crowd, and each detail is conveyed with earnest positivity. Of course the Lyceum shall prevail, of course there have always been protections in place, of course those protections will continue to be improved upon. Now is not the time for fear, she tells them, but rather it is the time for opportunity! She speaks with warmth and certainty, steadfast in her backing of Velenosa.

Lucita's strength is in songs, and she uses them skillfully. From her song, 'Garden of War', citing the Lycene and Velenosa skillful preparations in the war of 1008, to mentions in her songs 'The Black Fox', Keeping Watch, and others, her music recognizes and celebrates the strengths and history of her fealty. She sings these in various taverns and in small groups of friends. Copies of some of these songs are in the Vellichor archives and in personal collections such as that of Seraph Ailith, Princess Alarissa. This serves to help unify, reassure and raise a sense of hope.

Theo will linger in Jaenelle's library for any that may have questions in what they read and answers that he can give freely of course. Anything to appease the public that all is well and they have nothing to fear. If he is not able to satisfy their curiosity he will point them to others that may give them better answers than he does.

Berenice is DELIGHTED to remind the public just how much House Velenosa has accomplished in the past many years in terms of bolstering the Lyceum, increasing its prosperity, and helping their vassals to secure their lands. These may be scary days, but set aside the fear and look at the pragmatic practicalities: the Lyceum's leadership has made it a stronger place. No true gods would object to the generosity and care shown to the Lyceum by House Velenosa.

As a leader within the Mirrorguard and also the leader of House Igniseri, Marquessa Quenia Igniseri reminds the people that the Lyceum has always worked to help keep the people of their Fealty safe, both through research and actual measures and plans put together to tackle any issues, supernatural or otherwise, that might need to be addressed. Within the Mirrorguard, this was accomplished first by the leadership of Prince Talen Velenosa, then Count Giulio Corvini, and finally Archducess Jaenelle Velenosa, making certain all threats were neutralized. She also reminds the people of the various upgrades made to the Lyceum and how the Archduchess has taken great strides and lengths to ensure that their fealty was as protected as ever through her various improvement advancements; making the Lyceum stronger together, the watchtowers, the caravels, and the new and improved walls most domains saw recently. She reminds them that together they can stay strong as a people and overcome any obstacle put to them.

Lianne very much agrees with the approach of educating the population. How better to address the incomprehensible than by making it easier to understand. She's glad to field questions, both about her area of Abyssal expertise and broader occult topics, and put the answers into clear, easy to digest, bite-sized pieces.

The Inquisition is not suppose to operate in the various House lands, although what about trained agents wearing the appropriate colors and with the appropriate permission? Alistair and a team of Confessors and Inquisitors (wear Velenosa colors) go on a mission to assist the Lyceum guards, investigators, and Mirrorguard on developing their skills (and not just the leg breaking kind) so that they can better serve the populace. And keep an eye out for esoteric threats. Of course he is sure the people he helps train will go at things with the appropriate Lyceum flair, but that is to be expected. As long as the people are safe and other threats to House Velenosa are kept at bay.

Giada is the Archlector of the Thirteenth, the head Mirrormask, and a Lenosian to boot. There's no way she's not helping Velenosa out. While she herself remains in Arx to administer the entirety of the Discipleship, she -does- write personal letters. Or dictates them. She dictates a lot of letters. She dictates letters to each city state, sending them with trusted Mirrormasks handpicked for their oratorical skills to be read from village to village, great city to great city, in shrines and town squares and pubs.

In these letters, she speaks to the Lyceum, reminding them of their Faith and how their own home was founded upon purposeful Balance and blessed by the Gods of the Pantheon as a result. She appeals to The Hundred Cities, urging them to cleave hard to what they know to be true: they are supported by both Gods and Liege. She promises to continue to serve the Faithful as Tehom's Voice, she promises to protect them to her last breath. She promises that magic is not the provenance of the Abyss, but that Elysian magic exists, too. The Gods are not powerless. Giada's hope is to soothe the Lycene people's fears through both theological reassurance and the tailored nature of each letter by reminding them that they are not alone and helpless.

It's rather scary out there, isn't it? Despite the heavy weight of anxiety spreading throughout the city of Arx and beyond, Ophelia is that little ray of sunshine in the expanding darkness. She holds fast to the truth and spreads the good word about her beloved Archduchess, her House, and its long history of being steadfast. House Velenosa has always been a bright beacon of hope and safety in the Lyceum, and Ophelia speaks passionately of its strength during trying times in an attempt to reassure the public that it will protect them forever and always.

Jasper is a newly-minted Prince by marriage so doesn't have much in the way of 'getting to talk with the folk'. But he does have an idea, and this idea is to mobilize himself and a small number of volunteer servants to hear the mayors of each smaller settlement paying homage to Velenosa, getting written accounts of anything that they want to request from the Archduchess, such as better roads, or a new town hall, or anything of the sort, and in exchange, he will request that they assist in keeping things calm and manageable. He knows it can be a tall ask in these trying times, but it is only by working together that they can achieve the best result, and Velenosa has never failed them, after all.

Lord Macario Malespero joins his fiancee, Duchess Calista, on a tour of Tor. He's most often seen by her side, as Calista takes the lead on this trip. He nods and smiles and greets and makes a sorrowful face when someone is having a bad time and gives a proper high-five to cheer on people's success. Sure, if anyone asks him about the law, he'll contribute wonderfully to the conversation. The Lyceum has hand incredible fortune, a place where we're respected and have a pride for our history. When it comes to the faith, he's active at the Torean Shrine of the Thirteenth, showing his support and devotion. Here, he'll attend on his own and with Calista, and show his devotion.

The leaders of the Lyceum, and the Grand Duchess in particular, have a great deal of sway with the population of the Hundred Cities. They are scared (well, terrified really), but willing to take the leadership at its word that they have matters in hand, with just a touch of Lycene skepticism and cynacism. But panic is kept to a minimum, there's no widespread riots, and many of the more wild eyed performing human sacrifices are quietly tracked down and killed while tactfully excluding such things that would cause potential panics. In short, while there's no guarantee that they can keep a handle on it in the face of major crises, the population is willing to be patient for now.

House Velenosa's leadership was made aware of Malrico's sticky fingers some time ago, but had to deal with the issue slowly and carefully to avoid detection. With his death, there is a little more room to maneuver to dig through the layers upon layers, leaving no stone left unturned and no ledger left unopened. House Velenosa will explore their own accounts, trading ledgers, and bank statements in hopes to start from the top to work downward. The Great House will also travel to other domains, specifically Caith under House Gilden and Fen de Lire under House De Lire (for this round of crisis actions), as they are the smallest of Velenosa's vassals and it would not be a surprise if Malrico's allies took advantage of their size to sneak things from the Lyceum into coffers elsewhere.

With the investigations into Lenosia, Caith, and Fen de Lire, it is House Velenosa's goal to root out those left responsible, close loose ends, stop further embezzlement, and recover what they can.

Berenice is clever, but not an accountant. However, what she is very good at is persuading /other/ people to give her information. So that is what she will focus on: finding people who may know something, and then convincing them to share. Will a few end up snared to be tossed to Harlex the Headsman in the course of matters? Maybe.

Evaristo has a FAINT idea - just a little he knows from rumors, it's not like he ever SMUGGLED or anything, of course not - about how illegal money is made and hidden. So, he joyfully gets to work on what he has done for years already - talking to the right people at the right places along the coast cities of the Lyceum, using his old cog to do so and not announcing exactly who he works for. He is a known TRADER since decades, and known in many harbours, after all. So, rumor gathering, talking to smugglers and other shady types, for any hints of the gold that disappeared.

There are likely not many alive who know Lenosia as well as Arman does, given his age and deep ties to every part of the city. He knows all the prominent families, business folk and traders. They might even owe him a favor or two, real or imagined. He uses this network to investigate any usual flows of coin, by whom, and where they might lead.

Noah can be a man of extremely charming grace. He is afterall, a Grayson. However, he is more known for when the charm doesn't work. To be the shadow to the Archduchess' radiance. This is what he does in regards to Malrico. There are those things that people know who shouldn't. Those that also walk the line of shadow and of interest. He will banter where needed and more importantly -- threaten -- where needed. His RestingGraysonFace gives more to this.

He has been known to make an ill-timed joke, but he's also known for running tackling those involved in the economic 'crisis'. He is quite the wordsmith and just how he'll implement the various techniques of finding answers and he's extremely unapologetic about it. Poison parties? All the rage, until the poison is explained in the most painful manner. While the Archduke Consort may temper his -- temper at the request of his wife. He also lets it known that he's more than happy to lose that temper too. He hopes to find out what is happening, no matter what it takes.

Though she doesn't have as much experience in the world of economics as some, she knows enough that she's willing to put it through the test. She'll go over the ledgers and see if there is any suspicious laundering, fraud, embezzlement. She will come down hard on anything resembling a pyramid-scheme.

Having spent the past year in Lenosia, basking in the social scene, the moment Silvio heard of the business with Malrico's sticky fingers and the subsequent Velenosa investigation, he set to work using both his charm and his skill at manipulation to subtly pursue any whisper of a rumor which might aid his family in this matter.

Far better with people than ledgers, Silvio will use every ounce of guile at his disposal - his smiles, his banter, vague promises, and the very best wine, of course - to seek out leads into those aforementioned loose ends and missing funds.

Harlex knows one way to deal with 'loose ends' and as Sword of Lenosia, he's all too ready to snuff out those responsible. Once allies of Malrico are identified, as well as the coffers they've stuffed, he'll set upon them as a hunter to its prey. The grisly work will speak for itself, and hopefully the rest get the red message. Most nobles think they have silver-tongues until someone is pinning them to a parlor wall with a longsword.

To say that Enyo has an interest in Malrico and his deeds is a bit of an understatement, it might be argued that it's becoming an obsession. That paired with the news that Velenosa was going to start with two domains that she once called home it was an easy choice for her to lend what aid she could in the investigations.

Caith and those within it was a somewhat brief stint, however Fen de Lire was not, plus her son still technically has stake there considering his parentage. So Fen de Lire is her primary focus, reaching out to those she knows and had dealings with when she was Baroness de Lire to see if she can't assist with getting to the bottom of everything. Ledgers, books, scrolls, anything that has a physical trail, but she also will be looking into rumors and whispers as often things done in secret don't always leave a physical trail to follow.

As the current minister of Economics for House Velenosa, Quenia will be scouring the past logs made by previous ministers for any information that might seem like a discrepancy and compare them to her current logs and the logs that everyone has sent her since her tenure of what's due to House Velenosa. Anything she finds will be reported to Jaenelle.

She'll also take some time to visit Lenosia, Caith, Fen De Lire and take a boots on the ground approach and talk to the various merchants that are found within the cities. She'll visit the docks, the banks - particularly in Lenosia, and any other place that might offer a way to find information that might give them a clue as to where Malrico might have influenced business, trade, and banking in all of the cities. She'll use her authority as the Great House's minister to get access where she is able and also take some time to meet up with some long standing contacts she may have in each city.

As Minister of Income for House Gilden, Vittorio is going to spend his time reviewing the ledgers of the collections over the past several years and trying to identify any individuals who seem to be involved in under collecting according to the books. If he can find anyone who MIGHT be involved, he will do his best to talk to them and convince them that it was "ok" to have been involved, and that it would not be their fault if they were snookered. He will try to engender some trust in the individuals in question, tell them that it will be fine so long as they can help him track down where the funds went. Of course, in reality, while _Vittorio_ may not take action against them, House Velenosa might with that information, but those people do not need to know that.

No house has been as affected by Malrico's antics quite like House Velenosa. He hasn't been the greatest of ancestors and it shows with every new revelation that their investigations uncover.

He and his agents may have been incredibly careful with their paper trails but it's not hard to question/torture/seduce an agent who just so happens to have copies of ledgers before the numbers were altered. Perhaps they'd once foolishly hoped to use it for blackmail. Even without paper evidence, the information they're able to draw out of people is telling and the amount of money embezzled from simply the past decade is astonishing. Funds that had been withdrawn for projects that never happened, missing taxes, counterfeit coin used to cover up tracks.

Many baronies seem to have fallen prey to these machinations with corrupted Ministers and advisors. Or sometimes even thieves that had gone unnoticed. With the exception of Baron Demarcio, who is currently in Lenosian custody (if not already killed), the rot doesn't seem to have gone up as high as leadership of the baronies. Nonetheless, with the number of agents that they have apprehended and questioned, they've chipped away at the influence of the merchant families and criminals operating in the Lyceum, in service to Malrico.

All that was left in the end was to find Malrico's stash, in the island south of Caith that they were previously informed about. It's an island that most had never noticed despite many travels down this route... perhaps an enchantment had worn off. It has seen better days and whatever scouts that remained were unable to defend the horde in the face of Velenosa's fast ships. Monstrous entities with flesh blended with molten gold and gemstones, that were left to guard the horde were dispatched, leaving behind only clumps of flesh with their deaths, allowing the party to recover the treasures held within the island.

What they encounter is an absurd sum. Potentially billions worth of gold and treasure scattered throughout the island. It's a ridiculous amount of wealth that would surely shatter the economy if knowledge of it became public.

((OOC: I've added 25 million to Velenosa's vault - for now to represent what they physically return to Lenosia - and will alter their income accordingly.)).

The Lyceum is under attack from multiple sides, some hidden within shadows and spoken through whispers while others are front and center and unafraid to have their intentions known. Each domain has their watchtowers, a Lyceum wide system to alert of dangers, but that is only the first step in protecting from outside elements and warnings may be seen but then what? Jaenelle's next large project is to make sure each domain is reinforced against any enemy which comes to the front door.

Malvici: 40,000 Military resources. (4 to 5)
Magnotta: 4,500 Military resources. (1 to 3)
Saik: 13,000 Military resources. (2 to 4)
Fidante: 40,000 Military resources. (4 to 5)
Mazetti: 150,000 Military resources. (3 to 6)
Rubino-Zaffria: 40,000 Military resources. (4 to 5)
Igniseri: 50,000 Military resources. (3 to 5)
Malespero: 10,000 Military resources. (3 to 4)
Hawkmour: 10,000 Military resources. (3 to 4)

Total: 357,500 Military Resources.

Since Lucita became Baroness-regent she has learned that Saik was founded at the time that Platinum left Arx. Alessandra Saik was given the task of moving the Platinum Guard to the area now known as Saikland Greens and to watch for and defend from enemies. She was enobled by Duke Lorenzo Fidante who then abdicated his title and married Alessandra. Exploration has found what was once a strong castle. This was negotiated with the Inquisition, to lease it as a training ground for Templars and Inquisition, helping give a little additional strength to the Barony should it come under attack from enemies that fall within their interest yet not meddle in internal Barony or Lyseum or mundane affairs. A cave and tunnel system used as a sort of fall back, storage, and bank system was also found.

For the past 10 years Lucita has been steadily working on restoring Saikland Greens stability and strength closer to what it once was. Her current goal is to have a strong castle with its walls, protection, storage, and provisions built as a seat of the Barony government.

Protecting home and family has always been a number one priority for Enyo, and while she has been MIA for a little while, that urge to keep those in her fealty safe has not wavered. So when it comes to assisting with the Archduchess' next large project, she pitches in with what she can by offering her sword arm. It's an old and familiar position for her, and one that was easy to fall back into. As goods go too and fro, she offers to protect those that are transporting the materials where they need to go.

Since resuming her mantle as Duchess Zaffria of Gemecitta, Sylvie and Grazia have begun to form a strong alliance to work together and within the Lyceum. Sylvie helps with the efforts to strengthen not just Gemecitta, but all of the Lyceum by ensuring that stones that come from their region are sent across the Lyceum efficiently and fairly. Notably, she does this by diplomatically ensuring the quarries that are being run in her region do not take this opportunity to raise their prices, and encouraging them to keep them low.

Ostria has long been famed as the City of Walls, the Walled City by the Sea, and other similar monikers. What can often seem like an ever-changing labryinth of walls, means that the city of Ostria demands the very best of walls for the safety and security of its people. Under the direction of Duchess Cambria and Duke Hadrian Mazetti, Ostria will have them. Rotating workers and work sites, coupled with the architectural blueprints are closely guarded - and even reputed to not even exist - and even a few inaccurate copies which could result in a deadly error if used, are permitted to leak out into the hands of known spies. House Mazetti is known for guarding its secrets closely and the details of their robust series of walls are no exception.

Outwardly emissaries from Ostria will be dispatched to neighbors, near and far, both Compact and Abandoned in order to keep diplomatic lines fresh while also offering explanation for the walls: defensive purposes, citing the First Bank of Ostria as one of many examples of Ostria's defensive nature.

Giada assists House Velenosa by acting as a logistical consultant in exchange for a generous donation to the Mirrormasks. She will be using her particular specialization of plotting secure routes that shave time off the usual pace and smooth the inherent dangers and difficulties of such a large project. A great deal of time is spent poring over maps, especially considering the number of Houses receiving military aid from the Archduchess and how great their geographical distances are.

House Igniseri has long had its eye on defense, especially since they've uncovered some of their role within the Sylv'alfar War, with Lady Maria Igniseri holding off 50,000 Hounds of the Swarm off with a small contingent of soldiers (clue 3720) and Lady Payton Igniseri rescuing a phoenix from the Sylv'alfar and later finding a place for it to safely hatch, only to have it become her familiar (clues 880, 893, 908).

Quenia has done everything she can to bolster the army and add additional defenses to the grounds surrounding Granato, which includes building up the walls to the strongest possible materials she can find. She uses her considerable social skills to win over the workers, while also using her exceptional understanding of economics to make sure they get a fair price for the materials being used, bargaining for stone all around the Lyceum to ensure that several different domains profit.

She feels this is especially important after three Thornweave were found on her lands during their early attacks, only to be stopped by Sir Corban Telmar, Lady Eirene Riven, Lady Mia Riven, and several other companions. She feels it is the least she can do to ensure her people are safe.

All of their domains see significant improvements in their fortifications, and for Ostria in particular it's become one of the most defensible city-states in Arvum. One notable side effect is this has led to the Lyceum as a whole diverting far more of its resources into defensive fortifications, as other city-states not involved have become far more nervous about the development of year-long defensive build ups and did not want their own domains to look vulnerable.

Castles updated, resources removed from Jaenelle.

The Lyceum was home to the former Dominus, Orazio, and Velenosa's words of No one may harm us unpunished strikes true for any and all who have called the Lyceum their home. House Velenosa will not attack those who have harmed one of ours with steal of swords but of wit and charm and the brand of diplomacy often embraced within the south than most other fealties, manipulation. A propaganda mission to remind people who Dominus Orazio, and what he accomplished. House Velenosa will remind people that assassinations are poor sportsmanship, especially to get what you want and then not even get that. A celebration of the Faith and the traditions upheld by the Dominus as only the Lyceum can do.

Arman is persuasive at an individual level and at convincing the masses as a whole. Given how literate the Compact is, Arman will oragnize a leaflet campaign where his agents go about key towns and villages in the isles posting messages denouncing the claims of Waldo and how supporting him is dangerously close to apostasy.

Well Isolde's certainly keen to nullify the influence of Waldo in the Isles and prevent the anti-dominus from acquiring new supporters. Isolde uses her vast knowledge of theology to combat many of his talking points, suggesting that the changes being made are good things actually. In addition, she'll list the many things that Orazio had done in his time as Legate and then Dominus. She'll put emphasis on justice and the law - hinting strongly that Waldo's rebellion goes against the tenets of the Sentinel. She'll also remind the people that Aureth is the choice successor and so if any of them respected Orazio, they should stay behind the /real/ Dominus of the Faith.

There aren't many places where Theo doesn't have a connection and it's by these veins that his word spreads. He will verbally combat Waldo's influence by planting seeds of information that he predicts will spread like wildfire, with a goal to redirect focus to the true Dominus and how Waldo's rebellion is oath breaking at its very core. He will speak on all the accomplishments of Dominus Orazio and on the true traditions of the Faith to the right people he knows will take the information and run with it. While Theo is not one for public grandstanding, he knows exactly where to be at the right time for his word to have the most impact among prominent groups of Islanders and non-Islanders alike.

Alistair is a man of Faith and not Faith. He certainly feels bound to Sentinel, but has never been one for the rigidity of civilized faith that came with bending the knee and joining the Compact. Despite that he worked alongside Orazio many times and respected the man greatly. Even if he is a Beast of the Sword, he can try and offer a stern and dour word or two. Show that even a once prodigal like him deeply respected the man and the Inquisition as a whole did as well. Primarily he will keep his efforts down played, as he knows the Faith is not a fan of him, so he will likely seek to protect others who engage in this mission of words, to make sure they are not waylaid, interrupted, or assailed.

At one point in Quenia's life when she was working for her brothers, she had a network of people whom she considered friends, allies, and information brokers. She reaches out to that network to start a propaganda campaign to remind everyone what a good and decent Dominus that Orazio was and how he always had a helping hand for the people and reminded them often of the will of the Gods. He was a guidling light among the Compact that many looked up to and favored, until Waldo killed him in cold blood in the Queen's Rest that fateful day, and then proclaimed himself the Dominus of the Compact. This is not the way of the faithful, to kill their successors and then name themselves the keeper of the faith. These are the actions of a baseless, cowardly murderer who could not have made a bid as Dominus of the Faith in good faith, so contrived his own reasons for doing so. She throws her support behind House Velenosa and reminds everyone that Dominus Aureth is the rightfully elected leader of the Faith.

Agostino will begin spreading a couple of different messages among his friends and contacts, targeted a bit differently for two different groups. The first message will be targeted toward Isladners, and will speak to how Waldo's split from the Faith goes against Limerance, as he has broken his holy vows of service to the Dominus. That his "election" did not take place according to the traditions of the Faith, and so his subsequent claims of defending tradition are pure hypocrisy with a foundation of oath-breaking.

For those outside of the Isles, the discussions he attempts to start are a bit more pointed. He reminds any non-Islanders who seem to lean toward supporting Waldo that he set down this rebel path solely to defend the "tradition" of thinly-masked slavery in the Mourning Isles.

Macario connects with the Mourning Isles traditionalists on their shared appreciation of law. This is a two-fold attempt, that on the first he simply wishes to charm them. Law sets precedence, and precedence strengthens bonds. Without rules and law, there be chaos. But further to that point, legal contracts define how the people work together and the nasty business of assassinations and wars could wipe out centuries of legal work (contracts would become unenforceable). Mostly, though, Macario is charming and his instincts would help navigate this path set by Jaenelle.

To aid House Velenosa's goal to reminding the Lyceum of the good works from Dominus Orazio. The Duke Martino will be making a public address in Southport about the good work from the former-Saik Dominus to remind citizens that one of our own gave their life for the Compact. Additionally a feast in the Dominus' honour organised.

Waldo, Waldo, Waldo... that troublemaker! Lucita has come in contact with him before during her efforts to help Ailith in Sungreet. Songs were effective before, songs of hope, of unity, of loyalty, of faith. They swayed people's thoughts, their moods, helped counter Waldo's efforts. Thus she selects from songs of the past and some she wrote herself, sings, and teaches them to others to distribute them joyfully as a propaganda tool. It is especially satisfying to her to participate in this since Orazio was a Saik!

Prince Galen Thrax is not just a Warlord and does not just aid his blood-given house. With his sister ruling the Lyceum Galen has taken on some tasks to assist them, primarily with military training, naval guidance, and other such matters. However, Galen is also gifted in the arts of charm and propaganda and it is this that he employes on behalf of Velenosa. Over the years he has traveled far and wide and built quite a network of connections. It is this network, his charm, and his talents that he uses to help push the messaging his sister desires. If there is a grand opportunity to do some drinking along the way or to influence people...This he would not pass up nor would he a chance to be generous and honor Gild!

Ysabel goes for a more simplistic and modest route. Tending to the needs of the local villages and people by offering a friendly hand out of fruits from her House's orchards while also making idle chit chat and slipping some propaganda into the ears of her listeners. She tells them of the great deeds and works Dominus Orazio did and how Dominus Aureth is the rightful leader. She asks them what there worries and concerns are, and tries to lift their spirits up. Making friendly with the people is one way to win there hearts and votes, and obviously turn the tide in Aureth's favor.

The Lyceum has had their eyes turned to Arx since the moment that Orazio was named Dominus, and they haven't been able to peel their attention away since. As much as Lycenes enjoy the intrigue (or perhaps because they do), having one of their own being closest to the Gods bore a certain mark of pride. When he was struck down, there was outrage against Waldo and his supporters. That was /their/ Dominus. His popularity was highest amongst the Saiklands, and so they have the strongest degree of anti-Waldo sentiment.

There are a good number of people in the Compact that don't necessarily approve of Aureth's rise to Dominus, some because of his support of a 'new' God and others because of the association with his family prior to joining the Faith. He's a hard sell in those areas of the Compact. Not necessarily in the Lyceum for obvious reasons, but there are holdouts still.

Velenosa's attempts to truly win those holdouts over for Aureth don't go as well as might be hoped for. But they also don't go horribly wrong either. There's a bit of 'pro-Aureth' sentiment brewing on its own already, partially because the Dominus that was assassinated was one of their own. If Waldo is going to go around killing a perfectly good Dominus then they're /almost/ glad he was replaced with someone even less traditionalist! It's not something that they'd announce at the Assembly of Peers, but it's there in the undercurrent.

Traditionalists are still upset across the major domains, a fact that makes it especially difficult to nudge those stances from quips at parties to more public facing announcements. Those that might normally be more emboldened, are working to keep things peaceful in their own holdings and so are sticking to their own personal interests for now.

As for those that are following Waldo in the Lyceum? Their hearts remain unchanged for the moment, but they are quiet. They're smart enough to know that House Velenosa is watching them and that 'no one may harm us unpunished' is not just a fancy catchphrase.

With the understanding of how spidersilk is made (clue 3579), that hard (impossible) part is done. Now fine tuning is a must to protect the spiders and honor the Queen of Endings. Jaenelle wishes to collect more spidersilk, this time with the assistance of the Faith to offer suggestions and new ideas on ways to better, safely, harvest the rare silk threading to weave into cloth.

The aid that Aureth lends to this venture is largely by virtue of his person, his unique relationship with spiders generally, and the grace of Death. To say that what he does is _communing_ with them is a little bit of an overstatement. But the weave of the spiders and whatever he can do to coax their cooperation and ensure the health and safety of the Queen's favorites, by his presence and whatever gentle patience he can summon -- with prayers to Death before each enterprise.

The process for harvesting spidersilk is still incredibly difficult, but, with this second harvest, the technique is less deadly for the spiders involved, but output does not increase. The harvest results in a modest amount of spidersilk, but it is clear that this material will remain remarkably rare for the foreseeable future.

(OOC: Jaenelle now has more spidersilk in her inventory! Yay!)

The workers of Port Valerio, Port Iasu, Brassfall Shipyards, and Goldhawk Naval Base all get their orders. The construction of a large fleet of none other than the Lyceum created caravels. The ports work in unison to see that each ship is crafted perfectly and all are done on time.

All fifteen.

The Far Horizon to sail for House DiFidante.
Sweet Briar to House Fidante.
The Firebrand to House Igniseri.
The Silken Prince to House Tessere.
The Baron's Vision to House Saik.
The Numinous to House Mazetti.
Hope of Miraya to the Merchant house of Corsetina.
The Albatross to House Rubino-Zaffria.
The Beatrice to House Malespero.
The Siren's Song to House Malvici
The Sirocco to House Magnotta
The Indomitable to House Gilden
The Brass Serpent to House Hawkmour

The last two caravels will join the first one ever created, mooring beside the Carlotta: The Seaborn Fox and The Oleander.

As the Lyceum strengthens their naval presences while providing each house with the means to bolster their trading routes, Jaenelle also hopes it strengthens the bonds between the city states, unifying them even further with the large projects they have been undertaking recently.

((I have been told that it was acceptable to use any resource type so we've raised the 135,000 resources needed (the shipyards give a 10% discount so each caravel is 9,000) in 43000 econ, 52000 military, and 40,000 social))

Since the first Arvani caravels were constructed there has been a veritable rush to build, build, build. Even from the most unexpected places, like families from the Lowers. But the undertaking by Archduchess Jaenelle is on a whole different level. Fifteen. Fifteen caravels, contructed all throughout the Lyceum, each dedicated to a House, from names to carvings and mastheads, each of these ships are a testament to the vivacity, boldness and zeal of the Lyceum. An increasingly unified coalition, as each of these ships is gifted to their house, with two held back for her own House, bringing their total up to 3 caravels, sailing the purple flag of Velenosa.

Jaenelle has called the Lyceum fleet to action by reaching out to her banners. Through her leadership, she will unify the Lyceum to this threat. She will go to Lenosia to see preparations are being made herself, but will return to Arx afterwards.

Admiral Antonio Velenosa will take lead, working with the other houses of the Lyceum and Prince Victus Thrax or whomever he has placed in charge of the Mourning Isle's Fleet.

The Lyceum fleet will be helping to transport members of the Templars beneath Sir Preston's leadership.

The Isles Canines Fleet, including the two Caravels will be going with Velenosa for this intervention? Juliana as Voice for the Isles has committed them to Jaenelle. Jules will be going along but in the complicity of a Healer and if needed Diplomat.

While actually leading Malvici's fleet will be Domonico's responsibility, Calypso is the one in possession of the Duchess Beatstick, so she takes the responsibility of rounding up her vassals and making sure they understand that 1) This not a drill and 2) She will be paying very close attention to who responds and who doesn't. She reminds the reticent that the Eurusi threat isn't just to the Mourning Isles and Setarco, and if it's not turned back while it's still far away, the Lyceum is going to find itself fighting a war on two fronts.

Calypso isn't blind to the concerns her vassals might have about the Thornweave threat, however, and makes sure they understand that she's taking it into account. She reminds them that Southport's city guards and ground forces will be staying in Southport at the ready, and they'll be able to respond quickly if there's need to do so, and she even offers Southport's protection in the event of trouble, telling the truly reticent about the improvements the city has made to its defenses (Action #3858) and about the new and improved city guard and the very competent woman who leads them (Thea). She even drops hints about dock improvements being made by Martino (Action #3852), a subtle reminder that Malvici's wealth and power in the region is only growing, making them a very good friend to have. She makes sure they understand that the shav issue is being handled by Eirene (Action #3882) and won't make itself into a distraction at an inopportune moment; quite to the contrary, they as well as Malvici will be protected by Malvici allied ships patrolling the coast.

Between proving that Malvici has it's collective shit well and truly together, her offers of safety, and the Duchess Beatstick, Calypso is hoping to make sure the political calculus that her vassals do leads them to the conclusion that they're going to get more out of rallying to her banner with everything they can muster than they'll protect by holding back.

War is a tricky thing. /Banners/ are a tricky thing. The Compact has experienced two wars in recent years that span across the Great Houses, but there still must be resistance to the idea of sailing the Lenosian fleet off to the /Mourning Isles/. So Berenice is going to make sure to minimize that resistance. She will charm the Lenosian armies -- navies? military -- into action. A smile, a word, a promise of glory and Lenosian greatness. A reminder of promises made to allies, and the importance of standing with them against foreign hostile forces -- even if only to protect the Lyceum in the end. Whatever gets the job done.

The entire Southport Fleet sails in response to Velenosa calling their banners and Domonico will be commanding them from his own caravel, the Tempest. This is what the fleet and Domonico have been training for for some time now and they aim to see it through.
The Malvici Admiral will offer his expertise and assistance to Admiral Antonio and the other naval leaders, in tactics, strategems and particularly in the field of helping enable inter House communication and co-ordination, both with Lycene fleets and those of the other fealties, something that he has specifically trained for (Action #3052 and Action #3462). The book Compact Naval Lexicon will be of good use here.
The Malvici Fleet have been bolstered by a dozen ships from Saik, (6 Longships and 6 Galleys) which have been placed under the command of Admiral Domonico and will be fighting alongside the main fleet.
The fleet will be well equipped with arms and armour from Southport Steel (Action #3190) and supplies from Goldhawk Naval Base (Action #2351).
The Malvici fleet will form around their Dromonds and in particular the siege weapon armed Sea Hawk, with the longships aiming to board and take the fight to ships that have been rammed by the galleys. The Tempest will use it's speed and maneuverability to be where it is needed most in the Malvici fleet, as well as coordinating it.
If it comes to battle then Admiral Domonico and the fleet will not shirk their duties.

Ornella is going to act as Antonio's bodyguard during the assault. If it comes too close, it will find itself on a long swim back to shore. If it gets uppity, she has a cutting implement for that. Antonio is in good hands. If it turns out that Antonio needs her to go perform more personal missions, then she can do that too.

Quenia answers the call of the banners and directs a bulk of her naval forces to travel with the Lyceum fleet, putting them under the direct charge of Admiral Antonio Velenosa. She also does her best to talk up the efforts Jaenelle is making to create a unified fleet, reminding the members of the Lyceum that their very freedom could be at stake if they fail to answer the call themselves.

Cambria makes certain that her own city-state of Ostria heeds the call of its liege, Velenosa. It is important not only to reassure the citizens, but also ensure the soldiery is in prime condition for action. Through her leadership, Duchess Cambria Mazetti does her utmost to show the Lyceum - and the rest of the Compact, that Ostria is ready to tackle anything.

Selene carries the title "Whisper of Peace," earned for her tireless efforts dealing with the Great Road. She relies on that reputation as the travels among the Hundred Cities, reaching out to the smaller and far-flung domains and the largest cities alike. At each place, she throws wide the glittering net of  Whisper prestige and influence to pull the beloved Lycene population close. The message is direct and clear -- lending assistance to the Archduchess' efforts to repulse the Eurusi navy, to once again rise with grace and dark wit to overcome their enemies' cunning. Is not this the appropriate hour to remind the whole of the Compact that the Lyceum can tip the balance in war with more than simply strength of arms? Everyone has a part to play from devising brilliant naval strategy to increasing the expansion of sail-weaving, rope making, setting supplies for hungry crews or marshalling resources to support those gone to war.

She speaks to merchants and nobles, sailors and sword-dancers of their possible contributions. Let them walk away with ideas humming in their ears, for a chance to make their mark on the annals of history. Where conflict or opposition to participation is found, she hears out the parties' concerns and seeks a collaborative resolution. At the least she informs Jaenelle to unsnarl the snarls, and otherwise lower hurdles, dazzles the reluctant, and employs the full, seductive force of her charms to just about deliver many a boat or crew to her patroness. Why not try to be the face that launched a hundred ships? (Hey, a thousand could be overkill.)

Having recently discovered a gift for communication laced with persuasion, Ophelia will use such an ability to speak to those of the Lyceum that may be wavering their support in regards to assisting the Archduchess and the calling of banners. The princess will travel throughout the Lyceum and speak to those both inside and outside of her social circle, drawing people in to help unite and support Jaenelle. Many know Ophelia to be overwhelmingly sweet and kind, but she is also adorably convincing when she sets her mind toward swaying an opinion -- such a heart-melting combination, how could /anyone/ say no to her? She will work tirelessly to see that the Lyceum is united with its support.

The Lyceum's fleet has been put in his care, so of course Antonio will see to all the necessary logistics to make sure said fleet is ready to sail on time, and be well supplied for the trip. In addition, in his capacity as admiral and minister of war, he's never stopped building up Lenosia's forces for such an occasion- both by using the shipyards he's had access to, as well continuing Lenosia's privateering program to capture and re-fit shav and pirate ships for Lenosia's usage. Lenosia's grounds forces have also been bolstered- new soldiers trained and experienced veterans coaxed out of retirement to join the battles. To that end, he was given a dragonweep gemstone by Jaenelle, to sell and use the proceeds for recruitment, in addition to Lenosia's considerable military forces.

Waldemai will accompany the Malvici fleet, sailing on Lord Domonico's ship The Tempest. Waldemai will provide skilled crafting support before and after the battle, repairing and improving armor and weapons for the troops and whatever can be done for the ships as well. An experienced soldier who led a company at Setarco and fought pirates under Lady Calypso, he will be fighting in any battles as well.

Saoirse spends the days, weeks, after Jaenelle calls the banners researching Lycene lore -- stories of different houses, of families, of wars past, love, loss, and moments of pride. Armed with scores of papers and mountains of books about each and every house -- from great to small -- Saoirse Velenosa begins a tour of the Lyceum with her family.

She arrives as a guest of great honor and spends her time in each region regaling the houses with stories of their histories, of how they came to be Lycene, of why they unite under Velenosa, and of anything pertinent that would so convince a house to lift their banners.

And with so much research, Saoirse comes to know an *awful lot* about Lycene lore, the players within it, and the players who play now. She uses her web of influence and her ability to spot intriguing connections between people and houses to convince the troops to rally -- and that may involve subtle manipulation between two fractious houses or reminders of favors granted.

A powerhouse of influence in her own right, Princess Valencia sets aside her misgivings for now to see that her House and the people of Lyceum -- noble and common alike -- are well supported, supplied, inspired and kept in high spirits. With seemingly no diplomatic means to end this threat, the little vixen of Lycene mobilizes her connections and adds her voice, resources and talents to the call for Lyceum and its allies to stand in solidarity, doing what is needed to summon strong support for the effort and her people at home and abroad.

As Minister of Civil Welfare she takes particular care to see that the homefront is well supported, prepared and protected. This way soldiers and those assisting in their noble work can focus on the fight at hand and Lyceum can firmly hold the line and remain protected from other foes while continuing to support the defense of the Mourning Isles. As a princess of Lycnene, she also quickly joins the others in their efforts to bolster, inspire and support the troops/fleet and their support units.

However, the little vixen doesn't stop there. Before the fleet even sets sail, a secret campaign of unrest and fear against Euris is also launched to sow seeds of uncertainty and dissent designed undermine the enemy and destroy them from within in an effort to gain advantage and, with luck, help to win the fight by peaceful means or not.

Silvio is using both his physical and diplomatic skills in the assistance of the Skal'dajan affair. He is able to disarm most people that he speaks with through the use of confounding and confusing ramblings, which are all expertly executed for that exact purpose. Manipulative and seductive, he gleefully submits himself to the mission and whatever tasks are assigned to him, even if it means his doom, such is his confidence. He's also fairly distracting and good for morale.

Strozza commands the forces of he First Fleet from the flagship Caravel the Erudite - providing transport for troops or harrier support should he call for such and Duchess Cambria can release him for such duties

Alejandro isn't a naval commander. His role is far more diplomatic and swings to the side of propaganda. Using his skills, he will charm whomever needs charming, work with whomever needs working with and will do what he can to smoothe the process for everyone involved and help make a successful Lycene effort successful.

There are scores of city-states underneath the banner of House Velenosa, and mobilizing the hundreds of ships and tens of thousands of sailors and soldiers from all across the Lyceum has normally taken months. This time, it does not take months. Through all of their efforts, the forces consolidate under Antonio's overall command in quite possibly the fastest mobilization in Lycene history, with templars and forces of the Faith militant picked up from hundreds of different rally points throughout the Compact. The massive Lycene fleet, far bigger than many expected since the departure of House Pravus, meets with the fleet of the Mourning Isle and sets sail for Sungreet.

Of course, while the speed is astonishing, the templars are only given landfall slightly before the arrival of the Eurusi. The Eurusi fleet declines to engage the combined forces of the Mourning Isles and the Lyceum, and bizarrely begins to fight among itself before roughly two thirds sail from Sungreet to the south and southwest. Which suggests an attack upon the Saffron, potentially.

The streets of Ostria will be filled with a grand military display in the first annual War Parade of the Hydra. The forces of the II Hydra Legion will be present in the streets of Ostria for a full week, where they will perform exhibits of military prowess from elaborate marching formations from foot soldiers as well as highly skilled and precision cavalry movements. The week will culminate in a day of military contests including swordsmanship, jousting, and archery. The goal of the weeklong events is to create an aura of prestige for the soldiers of the II Hydra Legion to encourage more citizens to enlist for training, and to instill a scenario where Ostria's children dream of the day they can join such an elite force as well.

Being a former Sword of, Knight of, and Infantry Commander of Gemecitta, Miranda knows what it means to give impressive demonstrations of fighting skills. Now, newly Mazetti and wife of the new Marshal, Ostria can benefit from her expertise. Along with a specialized group of soldiers, Miranda leads a team in a demonstration of fighting skills highlighting precision routines, impressive displays of technique and strength! It's all very coordinated, much like a synchronized swim team, but better with pointy swords, scimitars, and the colors of Mazetti in Gold, Blue, and White. Hydras are stylized upon the uniforms which are crisp and clean.

Cambria, though she will be present and visible during the parade itself, does most of her work behind the scenes. She manages the details, large and small, coordinates with the various points of contact, and in general makes certain that everything runs smoothly so that on the grand day itself, the parade goes off without a hitch. Only when one is fully prepared and ready to respond with back-ups can standing before the gathered citizens as a figure both serene and glorious be possible. And that is just what the Hydra of Ostria desires.

The people need to hear the voice of their Duchess and in this case they get a Voice of their Duchess. The Hydra of Ostria wants them! The fighting men and women of the Hydra Legions require their support and camaraderie! As the dangers of the world turn their attentions haphazardly about, Ostria must ever be prepared to defend the Walled City. He speaks of the honor given to House Mazetti for each who joins the ranks. He speaks of the honor those who join bring upon themselves and their families. He speaks of the compensation that those who serve are afforded; because sometimes it's simply silver that talks. He brings up the past Marshal of Ostria, Lord Valerio Mazetti, and his heroism. The newest Marshal of Ostria, Lord Marzio Mazetti, long may he prosper in his role as a defender of Ostria is also given ample acclaim from the ruling seat of Ostria. Hadrian speaks of the great work that Lord Marzio has undertaken as the General of the II Hydra Legion, which has formed the backbone of House Mazetti's military. While the Guardians of Ostria are highly selective of those who earn such a distinction and the Glaivedancers are chosen from birth, the Hydra Legions still require those patriots of Ostria ready to defend it against all who would dare lift a hand against it, but also those who wish to pursue peace through strength of arms. Overall Hadrian spends his time among the people, spinning words and promoting the perception among the people that to serve the Hydra is a worthy, honorable ambition. Maybe those who show themselves to be truly exemplary will even find themselves counted among the ranks of the elite and celebrated III Hydra Legion!

As Minister of Allegiance and a Guardian, Theron is fully behind the idea to gather military support. So he puts on a display of swordsmanship, and his Hydra Snakeskin armor. His meanuevers will not simply be from the style of duels, but of the first steps he learned as a Guardian. Strength. Control. Skill. Pride. All such things on display. He will also take some time to speak with recruits, and would-be recruits directly. Guardian secrets of course, not revealed.

Braith is a spinner of tales and words and easily uses what she has learned about the Mazetti to greatly embellish their good deeds. She sways the views by discussing the grand showing of the Duchy and its finely adorned military. The Duke and Duchess know best how to serve their people and make certain Ostria is safe. No one else could certainly do it better. Such poise and stoic stature from each well trained and hewn figure (no matter if they don't all match in size and don't march to the same beat all the time) they are impeccable specimen! True to the heart of the people and not only for Ostria but if ever the Compact needed, one could be certain the Duchy of Ostria would certainly provide and oh what a sight it would be!

Alessia, the self-professed face of the glaivedancers, will put on her typical performance for the masses in her striking snakeskin and steelsilk armor. In the hopes of boosting morale, admiration and also potentially luring recruits.

Vitalis is a man of physical poetry, coordination, movement, resonance. It is how he does what he does, the Ghost of Ostria, appearing where no one was, disappearing from plain sight, tracking across trackless wastes, slipping bonds, and living to tell. Those feats are impressive, but to the various martial displays, Vitalis adds his experience training others to do what he does, blunting any doubts harbored by those observing they 'could never do that.' He'll show them through courses and games focused on combat and elusion that, in fact... they very much can.

Strozza will be providing a display of the Ostrian Navy's skill and talent. Precision maneuvering off the coast, war-games reenacting military victories, ETC, all to show the vast capability of the fleet's skill to show how well Ostria is defended and grows in supremacy at sea.

Jaenelle has been planning to take a tour of the Lyceum for some time, and it is especially important now. Ostria is located in the Southern left hand side of the Lyceum, so it is perfectly positioned to start the tour off, and with Mazetti being recently elevated to a ducal house it is important for the people of Ostria to meet the Archduchess that their liege has sworn direct fealty to.

The beginning of Jaenelle's tour just so happens to coincide with War Parade of the Hydra so it is fortuitous that not only will Jae be entertained in watching the might of the Ostria people but she will be able to assist in the message of honor in serving and protecting, hope that in doing so peace will come to the Lyceum and Ostria, and the pride and prosperity that comes from the auspicious positions that those in House Mazetti's military are risen to. Should she call her banners, she wants them to know that she has witnessed their greatness and what they can accomplish.

To show her gratitude to Mouse Mazetti for hosting her in such grand fashion for the beginning of her tour, the Ostria military and those that have excelled in the War Parade's games, the Archduchess will aide in sponsoring the parade with a donation of one million silver to continue to show her support to the Ostria people even after she has departed for other areas on the Lyceum Tour.

The military parade is a smashing success. The columns of proud warriors in their best armor, marching in perfect rhythm, handsome smiles and gleams of pride in their Lycene eyes makes for a spectacular show. The newly appointed Marshal successfully gathers the forces of the II Hydra Legion and drills them until their moves are seamless and instinctive.

Miranda’s efforts in leading a demonstration of precision fighting garners plenty of awe and cheers, while Theron’s personal demonstration is met with equal raucous cheers. While Strozza’s sailors are limited to ground maneuvers, they still manage to inspire cheers with their rope tricks and nimble moves. Alessia’s glaivedancing inspires numerous youths, eyes made starry by the lithe show of grace and strength put on display. And for all those that might quail and think that they could never achieve such things for themselves, well, there is Vitalis offering on the fly instruction in small, achievable goals to inspire belief and motivate even the doubters to join ranks.

Hadrian and Braith work the crowd with stirring speeches, seeding rumors and whispers, increasing the sense of personal pride in the Mazetti. Cambria’s skills in organizing the routes, calculating needs and assessing risks and cost-benefit analysis ensures that while disruptive to day to day business, no one is excessively hindered by the event, creating far more goodwill than annoyance.

When Jaenelle appears, the crowd roars its approval of the Archduchess-Regent, clearly honored by the presence of the Princess that has come to embody all that is Lycene in manner, grace and style. So much so that few if any even recall that she was born to Thrax.

When all is said and done, Mazetti welcomes a healthy crop of new recruits, increasing the size of their infantry, pike, archers and cavalry but substantial numbers.

Ellani has been weaving webs her entire life, and has become quite good at it. The larger than average sized spider, since moving into the Velenosa estate, has created hundreds of thousands of delicate strands of silk which is usually cleaned weekly and removed from the entire rooms she decorates with her beautiful and intricate designs. It seems like a complete waste of art.

Empowered by the spidersilk baby blanket her son owns, knowing full well the silk can be used to make a strong yet rare material, Jaenelle has sought out to see that the webbing is put to use instead of destroyed. She gets aide in her project from House Tessere, hoping to use their experience in creating a new cloth so that House Velenosa might be known for such themselves. Tailors to work with the threads, apothecaries to assist in making sure they withstand the weaving process, and merchants to see that the resource is spoken about and interest is gathered. House Acheron is tapped due to their experience with spiders, and those of the peerage who have offered aide are welcomed without question to see that this cloth becomes a thing and not just an idea on paper.

Jaenelle promised Ellani that she would show her the beauty the world has to offer, little did the spider know but it would be her who helps to create it.

Berenice once helped House Tessere in their establishment of cloth-of-neodymium, and she is /delighted/ to turn her skills to efforts of her own house. Berenice makes sure that everyone who is needed to convince to invest in this process and project are persuaded to do so: she is one of the foremost fashionistas of Arx, after all, and she will /ensure/ that the end result takes the city by storm. With that in mind, how could someone ever decline to be a part of it?

The finest fabric artists in Arvum dwell in Iriscal and Sabine commits them all. /All/. 10,000 resources worth of all. They are accustomed to her demands to experiment with odd material and they work best under the pressure of the Marquessa's chill, expectant gaze, bringing with them centuries of technique, innovation, and more than a little professional pride, to figure out how to turn spider silk into cloth.

And not one of them, from Sabine down to the most green apprentice, makes any bones about their intentions of taking what they learn from this little experiment back to Iriscal to craft their /own/ unnaturally strong material down the road. This is the test run.

Brianna is using her exceptional skills of organization and delegation to help with the administrative side of these efforts. When there's pretty dresses involved, she is highly motivated.

Lady Tesha Telmar would like to assist in this wonderful venture of spider silk as she has a fondness for them in general, along with most other animals. She is going to use her skills with Propaganda in spreading the properties of spider silk and how wonderous it is and hoping that it becomes a hit.

Mabelle is thrilled to finally practice her alchemical skills on anything other than perfumes and .. perfumes. She intends to test the fabric and assures its durability as well as be one of the models to showcase it around the city once it's finally woven.

Mailys might be a merchant, but it's her skill with textiles that she's bringing to this table. She'll get right into the process, helping with spinning silk, weaving, all of it. She wants to know how it feels in her hands, against her skin. She wants to be able to guide the process, if some technique might be better than the one currently being used.

Apollo could try to apply some novel tanning techniques to some samples of the spider silk produced, just to see if anything changes the properties of the material in interesting or useful ways. But no. He knows that the stuff is going to be in short supply, produced by - apparently - a single spider. His valuable expertise, here, is in understanding how materials with a limited and variable supply can be managed so they reach market smoothly and don't vary wildly in perceived value. He'll study the output and the various factors that go into the production of the spider silk, and determine where there are bottlenecks, places where a likely point of failure would stop production entirely or slow it greatly, and decide in what ways supply should be stored and released to market in order to maximize its value.

Alexio Donatti is a handsome, cunning, and charming man; the merchants know it, both the men and ladies know it, everybody knows it! He also has an uncanny way with words to get people to _do_ what //he// wants them to think //they// want to do. It's incredible, really! This time it is no exception. Once the textile creation is finalized, he begins his work. He makes sure to spread the news vis-a-vis spider-silk a stone's throw away and off the beaten track. News begin to spread thin and wide about the wonderful properties of the strong and rare textile; and, once you get the people's tongue rolling, well...it is very hard to get them to stop. Isn't it? At least that's the hope!

The crafters guild is a powerful guild. Most just never realize it. But Josephine on behalf of the crafters guild has listened to Jaenelle's proposition and is prepared to throw the might of the guild's bank and it's people behind her and Tessere. A good portion of the guild's coffers are emptied, contracts are called in and the crafters of Arx band together. 500,000 silver from the guilds coffers are put forther, 250,000 from Josephine's own personal funds as well. 20,000 economic resources, some of it gathered by it's members, or procured specifically for this project are laid out. And they turn out in numbers to assist. Whether it's the skilled hands of weavers, market specialists who can gather the supplemental materials to make this new fabric and in the amount necessary to ensure no hitch in supplies that might hinder experimentation. Josephine reaches out to the other crafters guilds across the compact to inquire of anyone of their numbers who are willing to travel to the city and lend their expertise or brainstorming to make the Archduchess regent's vision come true and Elloni's silks something to behold and marvel. This is the Crafters Guild and she will show the city and compact that the guild remains as ever, -the- guild, and instrumental in this process.

Nurie has always been focused on spinning her sister's dreams into something tangible, the creation of Tessere's brocade being one pinnacle of such a thing. It's lit a fire within the baseborn tailor to continue on with research and further creativity. The use of spider's silk as a completely new kind of material to incorporate stokes her imagination and excitement (and of course what Sabine wants Sabine gets as far as her aid), and as part of the Tessere delegation she lends her expertise and skill directly in its creation, investing a great deal of her personal time to work with and provide feedback to the team of artisans.

Spider silk cloth is the dream of a certain sort of tailor with a romantic bent and a level of ambition that lesser men and women might call ‘unrealistic’. But Jaenelle is able to gather together people who are determined to make it happen, and who are willing to invest heavily and wager that it can be, will be done. First, they gather the discarded webs made by Ellani, and attempt to spin it into thread. If only it were that easy! Sadly, the old webs are unsuitable and shred to pieces. Ellani - after much persuasion and treats of her favorite insects for days - agrees to hold still and allow Jaenelle to draw out a little bit of fresh silk from her spinnerets. The fresh silk has the strength and flexibility they need, but it’s clear that one spider could never produce enough for cloth. Also, Ellani makes it clear she has better things to do with her time.

Back to the drawing board. The investments by Josephine and Sabine go into buying a warehouse - a very well sealed warehouse - and doing some experiments. With spiders. Big spiders, little spiders, angry spiders (they’re all angry spiders). Mabelle and Nurie work together, with Tesha serving as main spider wrangler, to develop a sort of...spider spinning harness. Lock the spider in at one end, and someone can sit at the other and slowly draw the silk out into a spool. It takes hours every day. It takes thousands of spiders.The spiders bite their handlers, they eat each other, many escape or die, and the warehouse has to be stocked with every fly, beetle, and other bug the local urchins can provide, making for an awkward working environment. Brianna’s meticulous notes help them discover which breeds of spiders have the best silk-to-horrible-arachnid-behavior ratio, and it’s only Alexio’s charm and Josephine’s authority that can keep people from quitting when they realize they’ve been hired to spin silk out of spider butts. Ellani seems interested in the process, in her way, but shows little sympathy for the servitude of her fellows; it’s a spider-eat-spider world.

Eventually, the spiders die, since spider breeding is not, yet, an Arvani branch of animal husbandry. But through blood, sweat, tears, and hundreds of spider bites, the experimenters have enough spools of thread to work with. Mabelle and Apollo brainstorm ways to ensure that the precious, limited thread can be maximized for production. Working together with Mailys and Nurie’s textile expertise, the thread is woven into a single, precious supply of spidersilk cloth, with not even an inch wasted. It feels like cool air on the skin, it’s surprisingly strong, and it takes dyes beautifully. Some varieties of spider even seem to naturally produce lightly colored silk, and now they have documentation about which ones. Without some other breakthrough, this is never going to be a sustainable industry, but for this moment, they have enough cloth to create a few precious outfits. More, thanks to the skillful promotion of Berenice, Tesha, and Alexio, the city realizes that it is these people, and the incomparable House Velenosa, which has done the impossible: spidersilk cloth.

50 portions have been given to Jaenelle - this is not a mass production process, so you'll need to do further actions to gain more, or refine the process. You also each get a clue proving that you know how to make spidersilk the hard way!

It takes one to know one is Jaenelle's hope, and she requests an audience with Queen Symonesse. Having gone through the steps of meeting with the Deathspeakers, and joining their ranks, it has also come to Jaenelle's attention that there might be more than she initially assumed. Jaenelle is hoping to speak with Symonesse to see if she has the abilities of a Soul Healer, and find out as much information regarding all aspects of what that might mean.

Jaenelle, Leona, and Symonesse met to catch up. They spoke of spiders and licking souls. The meeting ended in Symonesse asking Jaenelle to officially become her soul-healing apprentice and also to take a trip to the Twilight Court with her which they are totally going to gang up on Leona to convince her to come with.

With the continued embargo on the increasingly-rare Lenosia Red wine put in place by the head of the Rogelivitti Vineyard, Lucio Rogelivitti, Isobella has spearheaded an effort to end the stand-off by investigating the massacre that claimed the lives of those traveling in the merchant caravan led by Lucio's heir, Mario Rogelivitti.

One mystery begets another, and in light of the details uncovered through various channels and with the cooperation of the Velenosa military, House Velenosa takes steps to ensure that this crisis is brought to an end, and that the fates of those involved serve as a lesson and a warning to any that might harbor thoughts of taking advantage of the Lyceum during these trying times.

- Jaenelle directed Isobella to investigate the death of Mario Rogelivitti. After the information had been gathered, more delegation occurred, and Arman was brought in to arrest those connected to the Lyceum army (Captain Tomas Devadi and co.), and Mario's father Lucio, per Jaenelle's orders. Tomas and his men were interrogated for information, while Mario was found guilty of his crimes of kinslaying and attempted extortion of the Lyceum Crown.

- The vineyard run by the Rogelivitti family, the land provided by the Velenosa family generations ago, has been ordered to be returned back to the Velenosa family for management, and all those working on the land are given the opportunity to remain working for the vineyard to see that trade returns, profits will pay for comparable wages while the rest will increase the Velenosa family coffers.

- Leticia Medicari, Mario's widow, will not be given the vineyard. She will be offered the chance to have the Velenosa family take in her and Mario's young child as ward and when he comes of age, the vineyard may be passed to his care. She, of course, does not have to and is free to go. The Medicari's, a wealthy merchant family, will no longer be the go to when it comes to shipping goods to and from Lenosia under the necessity to provide a fair economy to the other merchant companies within Lenosia, the Velenosa family certainly believes in fairness.

"By order of the Archduchess Regent Jaenelle Velenosa: Lucio Rogelivitti, you are under arrest on the charges of kinslaying by proxy and attempted extortion of the Lyceum Crown."

Prince Arman Velenosa led the arrests with the deft assurance of his reputation and station, the heavy hand of House Velenosa. It was not only Lucio Rogelivitti that was taken into custody, but also Captain Tomas Devadi and all men assigned to him who were not where they were supposed to be the day Mario Rogelivitti was murdered. The military personnel were not given charges, but were taken into custody nonetheless under the premise of questioning. (See: @action 3342)

Having not only been a member of the team who went down to investigate Mario's death, but also the person who sat with Lucio Rogelivitti himself, Saoirse accompanies the group who dispenses JUSTICE, VELENOSAN JUSTICE!!, during this second action. Saoirse would stay roughly in the shadows, quietly offering insight and assurances to the men and women who would certainly be worried about the outcome of this ordeal. She is resolute regarding the guilty parties but is careful not to alienate others.

Captain Tomas Devadi might not seem the most innocent man as he has to be physically restrained and placed in irons in order to be questioned, and it's apparent why. His men fall over themselves in trying to offer up details in order to save themselves from execution once it becomes obvious that a) House Velenosa is not amused by their little conspiracy and b) the jig is up. Evidence comes quickly, and in overwhelming degree, as Captain Tomas Devadi, Lucio Rogelivitti, and his servant Paolo Armavati are all found guilty of arranging the murder of Lucio's heir Mario, covering it up, and attempting to extort the Velenosan crown. Worse, it becomes obvious from confessions this was done because of perceived weakness in House Velenosa, with the rapid succession of a series of Grand Duchesses emboldening someone like Tomas Devadi to believe they could get away with extorting House Velenosa.

The relative mercy shown to Leticia Medicari and her son actually is a plus in the eyes of many of House Velenosa's vassals in Lenosia, as a truly ruthless purge of killing everyone even slightly involved is something some past Grand Dukes may have done, but seeing a more measured approach and just taking the vineyards as fairly just and even. And most importantly: Not weak.

The wine crisis is over, and Lenosian Red is flowing once more, and this time it's contributing heavily to Velenosa's coffers directly, rather than from taxation. Their profits increase substantially.

Domonico has ordered and will be directing efforts in the construction of a new facility at Southport, which will be named Southport Steel, that will both be smelting high quality steel from iron ore and manufacturing it into weapons and armour. The primary function of this will be to make sure that House Malvici and the armies and navies of Southport are well equipped. The House of War makes sure that every citizen of Southport serves and trains in the military and will ensure that they are given the best quality armour and armaments for the tasks. As a secondary purpose, what Southport Steel forges that is not marked for the military will also be used as trade items with other Houses, particularly those who are also members of the Empyrean Trade Route.

The facility will be designed by Malvici engineers and craftsmen but will consult with Houses Brass Hawk and Crimson Malvicus (who both assisted on creation of the Goldhawk Naval Base) and hopefully this will enable House Malvici to build the best possible facilities and that Southport Steel really helps entrench Southport's reputation as the 'City of Swords'

Aahana is now a fully fledged Malvici and will be assisting with the Southport Steel project. She'll be bringing all her economic knowhow to the fore, helping to secure good prices on building materials, raw materials for forging as well as negotiating the best prices for the finished products. Her keen head for maximising profits will be focusse on bringing her husbands vision to life and thus she pours a lot of her own resources into Southport Steel

Lord Domonico Malvici has expressed the desire to build an armor/armaments industry in the Southport area. As a master armorsmith (and minor league weaponsmith) from Southport he has asked Waldemai to play a large role in setting up the industry and training apprentices. Waldemai has already been working with the youth of the area who were part of coming to declare fealty to Malvici at Southport, and he is a loyal retainer of the Malvici, so he agreed immediately.

Valenzo and his crew aboard the Tasty Terrapin have been tasked with transporting the materials necessary for constructing the Southport Steel facility and production to the site in Southport, and they will set to with gusto; the crew is also willing to aid in construction efforts, and once everything is complete and the Terrapin will transport the final product out to the various vassals for testing and use.

Upon hearing her cousin's idea, Caelis immediately thought of this opportunity as a great resource for the Arvum Refugee Relief Group. Turning to the organization, Caelis has set about sourcing out individuals and families with skill around the crafting of weaponry to voluntarily relocate for this undertaking.

Calypso will be signing off on the plans she's presented with, helping with providing military knowledge and offering a presence while the project is being completed.

Miranda's been asked to be part of Domonico's plan for Southport Steel via quality testing. She will take the initial products that Southport Steel makes and test them for durability, design, weight, strength, and so forth. In some cases, she may suggest design changes. She'll test the weapons against dummies and opponents and make sure the armor is fitted well with thought to how a soldier might need to quickly put the armor on or get it off in a pinch. How fast can a sword be wielded? Is the hilt merely beautiful or practical? And so on.

Lucita's Barony is one of the Malvici vassals and to have a facility from which to attain high quality steel armor and weapons so close by is only beneficial to Saikland. Army members consisting of footsoldiers, pike, archers and cavalry are all easier to recruit and maintain when they are confident of having the best of such steel protection and weapons. Therefore Lucita lends her charm and stewardship skills to the project. She knows just who to contact and how to make arrangements to facilitate the effort.

Santi has offered his assistance in testing the practicality of these weapons in the field. Having spent much of his military career among the common footsoldiers, he is in a position to understand the unique problems that harry infantrymen and their equipment - being exposed to the elements, having to go for longer periods of time between cleaning and maintaining, et cetera. As such, he will establish a series of stress tests to see how well the rank and file equipment will hold up and how easy it is to repair in the field; for example, how the wrapping and fittings on swords will hold up to being wet for extended periods, how durable the wooden shafts on spears and arrows are, et cetera. Basically, worst-case scenario sorts of things.

Jaenelle approves of the Lyceum strengthening their militaries, especially with the unknown threats the Compact faces. She will assist with recruiting able bodied craftspeople to work the steel, she'll help broker deals between Lenosia and Southport for well priced ingots to smelt and create into the arms the new facility will forge, and she'll assist with any diplomatic areas that rise.

Roxana is supporting her dear Malvici Nephew in his efforts to build up industry in Southport. Her job is mostly to talk up the project in Southport and among her other contacts (Grayson surely) so that once Southport steel is being manufactured there is heavy demand by other houses. She will charm whoever needs charming among trade delegations and ensure that the business venture is successful however she can.

Grazia will provide the stone for construction from her Gemecittan quarries. The bulk of the building will be laid out in heavy but beautifully sturdy granite, and the showrooms will be floored with exquisite marbles, all of the finest design. She'll work with the architects to really coordinate with the style of the building and it will have a most beautiful edifice.

On behalf of Rubino-Zaffria, Seymour offers his services to the construction project at Southport. He will do this by reviewing the plans for logistics and the material that the new facility will be using, taking time to review the sources for incoming supplies, vet the expertise of architects, and similar paperwork heavy tasks that undoubtably he is not alone in doing and nobody really wants to read about in detail. His efforts may be slightly curtailed by a clear worry of running into Mrs. Oak, his ex-wife still based in Southport.

Recently arriving in Arx, Thea has been recruited to lead the organisation of the medical tents and health of those testing the new Southport Steel and working on the construction of the facility. She will be leading teams of medical staff to care for wounds such as burns and cuts.

Having only recently left Southport - Thea will be applying her knowledge of the local area to hire the best medical staff to ensure that anything hurt during the work is well looked after

Stepping forward with his ability to influence a deal favourable to the Malvici, Martino will be schmoozing those that Domonico and others bring in to work on the project. He will be there to keep spirits high for those staying in Southport, and treated to House Malvici's hospitality, so that they leave with a positive impression on the House.

He will be working with Lady Aahana Malvici to secure good economic terms, but primarily to ensure that a diverse group of people produce an exemplary facility and product.

Ysabel is concerned with the rising threats to the Compact and resolves to help Southport with their project. After all having strong allies is a good thing and she is sure she can get a good price on the finished goods. Using her Economic knowledge she will work to help Lord Domonico make Southport Steel a success

Lady Kaia Bisland enjoys reading (even if it’s the boring stuff, yes, that’s why she’s her House’s historian after all), and has an exceedingly sharp eye for organization. She is a master at keeping the mind-numbing but crucially essential papers and documents well sorted and available. She is, also, quite good at being bossy, and both her family and friends know it –or perhaps will learn of it just now. Beware lackeys! You shall not hear the end of the petite lady’s voice until all tasks are well done and completed! So get to it!

Her innate charm makes it all too easy for people to do as she asks whenever she leads or commands tasks. More often, than not, they can’t seem to bring themselves to tell her no. I mean, who can blame them?! She’s just too good and crafty with her arguments on why this would be better done this way or that way, or persuading them on why it would even turn out to be beneficial for them –even if in reality it would not; and so, she takes advantage of these skills to provide her Malvici friends aid in gathering the right people to keep the humongous piles of compiled paperwork for the project outstandingly well-organized.

The end goal is to facilitate and speed up the whole process of accessing the right documentations, for permits and other legal matters, which may be required for the development of this clever and advantageous Southport effort.

Southport Steel is a big success - with Lord Domonico and Lady Aahana working to get it established, they lead the way and make the plans. Waldemai helps set up armaments, Valenzo makes sure the materials are transported safely and on time. Princess Caelis helps by finding large groups of craftsmen to take on the tasks, and Duchess Calypso signs off on everything.

And their allies just keep on helping - Baroness Lucita gives aid, and Lady Miranda tests the weapons created. Santi helps test weapons too, and Princess Jaenelle not only approves the entire thing but brokers deals between Lenosia and Southport to provide access to ingots for extremely reasonable prices. Duchess Grazia provides the stone for the project, good Gemecittan stone at that. Lady Kaia and Baroness Ysabel, Seymour and Thea make sure everything is set up and all the workers are accounted for and taken care of, right down to the very last detail.

And Lady Roxana and Lord Martino make sure everyone knows exactly who's responsible for what is a triumph of Southport, and everyone is soon talking about all the wonderful advances made in Southport. The economy is booming, people are joining the army knowing that they'll be well-equipped to fight, and overall, things are looking up for now.

Every so often Jaenelle will hear whispers of things. Greetings, farewells, some formal while others speak her name as if they know her. She can never quite place the voices as those she knows from present day, so she is unaware of who these people are or even what they might be. Due to this, she has decided to go to the Hall of Heroes, a place where history surrounds those who enter with each step taken to try to find some answer. Through meditation and assistance, she will try to be receptive to learning a little more about these voices.

As the apparent conduit for most of these disembodied whispers, Alaric will be coming along with the trip to the Hall both to provide moral support but also sort of to just existentially feel very -strongly- about the fact that the whispers ought to be a little more forthcoming about their identity.

Really, the voices are thrilled to be heard. And happy to help explain, in the relatively few lucid moments, that Jaenelle is hearing some of the souls that are hanging around Alaric and are ecstatic someone among the living is hearing them. Jaenelle even hears two ghosts arguing, at great length, about whether Jaenelle is 'technically a deathspeaker or not'. The ghosts aren't sure, even though they were both scholars in life, and say that she'd probably have to ask Volcica and the other deathspeakers to be sure, to get an expert opinion. But the ghosts each ask Jaenelle to take their side, with one saying she should say she's not a deathspeaker, but something else, and the other saying she technically is a deathspeaker for sure. Both ghosts tell her they can wait literally forever for her to sort it out.

Some time ago the idea of improving County Pearlspire's infrastructure was seeded. The idea began as a military effort, improving roads to improve troop movements. Which would improve trade. And like the bit of grit that eventually becomes a pearl, the idea has grown and taken shape. And grown some more. Inspired by Lord Michael Bisland, the success of the Empyrean trade route, and encouraged by Marquessa Deepwood, Lord Kaldur has begun shepherding a massive infrastructure project - an overland analog to the Empyrean Route that will set a series of trade roads through Grayson's principalities and farther. /From Stormwall to Ostria and beyond!/ says young Kaldur, with emphasis on 'and beyond.'

When the planning is done and construction begins in earnest, Lord Kaldur is a man who prefers to lead from the front when he can. In County Pearlspire he will work tirelessly alongside the men and women (and horses!) of the Seliki Engineering Corps as they plan and execute the work laid before them. He is a steadying presence with encouragement and focus at setbacks and ready with praise for work well done.

(OOC: Recommended support is 100-200 resources for Baronies and Counties, 200-500 resources for Marches and Duchies; but any and all support is welcome)

As work proceeds all over the Compact, who knows what will be discovered!!

Lady Peri Seliki has a strong relationship with the prominent traders that already flock to Pearlspire's shores and has reached out to those that she tipped off previously to some lucrative opportunities on lumber. She gathers information from them on where the best routes would benefit from roads to add to her brother's efforts and arranges for them to get the word out to others, both to fulfill the gap in transporting materials to the workers and in preparation for the new network.

Considering that some adult supervision will be required, Kalani would be happy to go along and serve as a stand-in for said-adults. Chiefly, if anyone is going to build anything, someone is bound to get hurt in the process. It's a natural outcome of people + tools = broken body parts.

Samantha is wholeheartedly invested in this notion, especially with Old Oak (presumably) being one of the stop points on the road. She'll invest resources into its creation, and encourage the hiring of the March's population for all levels of its creation. She will also look into facilitating the formation of security for the road, and aid in the diplomactic and economic efforts surrounded projecting its cost to create and projection of its maintenance.

As a purveyor of stone, particularly granite and marble, Grazia is going to have stone shipped to the Selikis for Pearlspine. Some of the stone will be used for the very roads it is to be transferred along, but the bulk of it will be sailed along the coast to the actual port city to be used to build the harbor. This is an important trading endeavor, and Grazia expects that due to the long-term nature of the project that it will offer a nice economic boost for her quarries.

Aviaron's Peak rests atop a MOUNTAIN, which means its architects and workers have experience working in... the MOUNTAINS. So Rhea will consult with her stewards to put together a crew of advisors and workers to help with Kaldur's project, lending them valuable experience. Aviaron's Peak will also provide any necessary metal for the project at a discount.

As stewards and protectors on the roads of Arvum, and as followers of Gild who favors trade, civilization and hospitality, the Knights of Solace lend their aid to the project with the promise that it will feature a few Solace waystations and shrines for pilgrimage. Thena offers the Solace soldiers stationed near the proposed route for protection and manpower. She also sends resources and silver for the project. Once complete, the route will be added to the Knights of Solace regular coverage.

Ann believes in Kaldur's efforts for a trade route and signs Stormwall up, understanding that he needs support in many ways to see success in the long run.
*She puts her economic mind to use, saving Kaldur where she can and maximizing profits.
*Pours over paperwork with him to make sure no one is pulling a fast one on him.
*Assigns Crovane's reserves to patrol the route inside Crovane lands.
*Uses her Inquisitorial contacts to make sure no one is sharing the details of the road to those outside of the Compact for their own benefit.

Michael Bisland rounds up maps and engineers who know how to READ said maps to help a vassal in need. Or in want. Since Kaldur doesn't /need/ these roads but he sure does love to talk about it. So much. Just constantly. Leave me alone, I helped!

Grady is following Samantha's lead here, helping smooth the way for increased security and infrastructure between Pearlspire and Old Oak, ideally helping both domains grow stronger and more secure. He talks to people, he negotiates, he encourages the soldiers, and he keeps a careful eye out for any rising arguments, moving to help quell those as swiftly as possible.

Gabriel Bisland is encouraged by the younger generation's drive to see the Compact reach new heights. He adds the weight of the mighty House Bisland to the project. Not only to fund the improvement (or new construction of) roads in Pridehall, but so that the project over all might avoid the danger of dipping into the red.

Giulio will assist in helping those that wish it in building a uniform code / set of agreements to make the best money they can on this.

Stonewood is no stranger to road building, having recently refurbished the road to Pridehall that helped put them on the map. What's not on the map, however, is a great way to cross the river at Stonehearth. So in coordination with this network of roads, Malesh will oversee the creation of a bridge or ferry (whichever is more practical/profitable) crossing the Gray River not far from the docks at Stonehearth.

Recognizing the opportunities for trade and also for his house, Fecundo is lending his diplomatic skills to getting the project moving, working through any of the lands where the road is planned to go. It also doesn't hurt that he'll be able to point to the quality of output from the Gemecitta stone.

Etienne has a vested interest in the pursuit of the expansion of civilization, trade, commerce, and the cause of safe journeys. All of which are accomplished by a well funded and functional transportation system. Etienne will be contributing silver generously provided by the Faith as well as speaking well of the endeavor whenever possible to those that need help convincing. Etienne would indicates the funds are for the builders, and those that support them, soldiers, cooks, and the like. Etienne would also be on hand for cutting any ribbons with hilariously large scissors.

Eddard uses all of his wiles and charm to help speed along permits and coax constructions crews to take on the needed jobs. If Duskshire ends up on the new set of roads, thats not so bad, eh?

Lord Bedivere Whitehawk will be acting on behalf of his dear newphew (Baron Silas Whitehawk) to lead forth Whitehawk soldiers to help out on the road project for Lord Kaldur Seliki. Bedivere himself will be out there as a managerial force to help out every day.
He seeks the help of huntsmen and cartographers in the area to help map the road around mountainous and hilly terrain to connect agricultural communities.
Since gravel and paving is time-consuming and expensive, wood is used in these instances to limit excessive sliding on the steeper side of a hill.
Whitehawk soldiers are deployed to help with security and digging where soil is already worn away, close to the bedrock, so muck will be less of a concern.

While the Volkov Woods is one of the newer areas of the map, and that they may not come anywhere near the proposed current trade route - Ruslan is hopeful that someday, when the trade route starts to create the terciary routes, that the Volkov Woods would be part of this future. As such, he has created a small patrol of 150 troops to be sent to provide security and protection for the crews along the route.

Lady Rey Laveer, as Voice of Laveer and a Mercy has decided that roads are more than needed to connect trade routes, but as a side not would be good for movement of healers to farther reaches of Arx. And has offered her House's support as well as her personal support to the Roads Project.

Given the Twainfort's traditional seat as a trading hub due to its control of the fork of the Mother in the Daughter and Son Rivers, it's simply good sense to see that more and more overland routes from far-flung, land-locked Houses can reach Riven's ports and speed the passage of their goods along its way. Mia will work with a number of her advisors, particularly those most familiar with the landscape and locations throughout her County, and those recently joined Prodigals from surrounding areas of the Gray Forest to find the appropriate blend of transversible but also defensible routes through the woodlands.

In her role as minister of upkeep to Inverno, Mirella will be working on behalf of the house to aid Lord Kaldur's project. Alongside advisors from house Inverno she'll be investigating the safest and most convenient routes for roads to the island city of Caina and any surrounding settlements, as well as figuring out required costs prior to these roads being built. She'll share this research with the Seliki Engineering Corps and assist them in any way that's helpful and beneficial to Inverno and Seliki. She'll also be donating 100 economic resources to the project, representing Inverno's ministry of income rising to the task to provide funds.

Though their home is an out-of-the-way island, the Truesworn are often keen to participate in the broader life of the Compact. A grand project to improve the infrastructure of the coastal trade routes evidently meets with the Truespeaker's approval. Sudara duly brings to bear all the Setarcan know-how and book-learning she can muster, in guiding her people through work to develop Esterhold's internal structure and develop its external trade.

Tenebrae, a warrior above all things, will help in this endeavor by both allocating and commanding soldiers to protect the works, as well as using soldiers as workers on the Isle of Esterhold. They will be learning from the engineers as much as possible, while also ensuring no resources go missing, and protecting lives. This protection also applies to guarding the sea lanes to ensure the transport of resources, skilled craftsmen, and the money to pay them.

The Marquessa of Nilanza is happy to supply as much as we can of the materials and labor required for the stretch of road to be built across the march, if the engineers to see it through can be provided by other means. Then we, House Malespero, can contribute both economic and social resources to the effort, and to all upkeep.

Belladonna has received an invitation to take part on Kaldur's new efforts to build a more cohesive network of roads for commerce. She will be seizing that opportunity and trying to convince other lords, traders, merchants, crafters, etc, to join in with some of their own resources, thus investing much of her Social pull into this. She wants to make Setarco, the whole island, a place of culture and wealth. She will know places to avoid and where the roads should go through.

Lord Sebastian Pravus will be visiting Setarco during January of 1010 as part of some other work. While there, he will talk with local contacts to get an understanding of the breadth and scope of work needed to build roads on the island, as well as the best ideas for placement to assist the engineering corp. Additionally, he will assist the project by spruiking the benefits of a well-built trade road far and wide with his many contacts in Arx and especially within the Pravus lands to drum up additional support and interest in the project and its potential benefits to the local economy.

Following her sister's lead, Celeste is offering her expertise in terms of patrol schedules, strategic importance to areas, most likely to be ambushed here... that kind of thing. She'll further take effort to extol the virtues of this project to important and influential figures in Arx and Setarco.

Mikani helps Kaldur understand the unique location that is Redreef. She gathers funds and encourages the infrastructure project through out her Barony. Mikani addes in economic resources to help with the building of the roads and other paths knowing that anything can be useful.

Baroness Skye Blackshore is a founder of the Empyrean Trade Route. She provides all the mappings where the ships will stop along the way, providing recommendations for fortifications so that goods can be transfered from the ships to the land. Then she will using her mapping skills and knowledge of war to figure out potential ambush points and provide that to people who are going to managing security of this route. She will also use her economic skills to assist Duchess Ann with negotiating better building rates, using her woodworking and infrastructure talents to make sure they get the necessary supplies for building without spending to much.

Dycard is going to help out with the persuading of people that this is a good idea and one that should be supported. After all, roads help farmers get their produce to market as well as letting military forces travel much faster, and that has to be to everyone's benefit come tax-time, right?

Tyde lands are connected both by more traditional roads on Tyde Isle, but more often by more watery roads. Increased trade is good by land, but with goods arriving all the time and boats being a bit more infrequent but with larger cargo capacity than a cart, it is important that there are places to store the goods and efficient places to load and offload. As part of Kaldur's efforts, and to connect this large Grayson road network to the Empyrean and the Isles, Tyde makes land and resource available for the construction of proper warehousing and expanded stone piers to allow for efficient offloading, and offer this same expertise to help build them on the Grayson shores.

Mirk had planned something similar himself, so there's no hesitation when he's offered the chance to connect Whitehold and Cascade Springs to this planned network of roads. As the Minister of Coin for the Halfshavs, he brings some of his House's resources to the table: chiefly stone for the main roads, but also access to scouts with experience finding routes through the mountains. He acts mostly as a diplomat and negotiator, working with others to see to it that those resources are used where they'd be most effective.

Magnus will participate by guiding and assisting in the direction and protection of the roads approach to the Bonespire and surrounding winter wasteland. Utilizing his tactical and martial aptitude he will make himself available to personally advise on any potential known threats or Shav'arvani bands in the area's which they pass through as well as coordinate the protection of all participants with other collaborative members of the team, to include the usage of a detachment of assigned Bone Warden's.

With the building and improving of roads into the far reaches of the Compact, some things might be discovered-- or rediscovered that are best left alone or need a Shaman's expertise to navigate. Volcica will be lending all of her skills to this effort, making sure the spirits remain content in Stahlben's lands and as far out as she can help.

House Ravenseye will happily do their part to be included in a road project to try and make their remote area a little more accessible. Cadern will be sending out missives to Ravenseye and some of their neighbors to avoid any ruffled feathers and ensure things get handled amenably for the usually isolated northerners.

As Voice of Steelhart, Col will invite the trade road to Highhill and provide some military support and strategy as needed to ensure everything is kept safe.

Believing this to be a good endeavor for his house (roads are great for horses), Count Philippe signs up for the project. Alongside his officials, they lay the foundation for dirt paths, making sure to disturb as little as possible of their natural resources by routing the road system through ground that has already been used. Philippe is adamant about raising ranger stations for the Knights of Solace on these roads.

The Rivenshari know other roads, those of the water ways that move through the lands. Which is not a bad thing, they can use that knowledge to help intergrate the two road ways together as well as the roads that will run through Riva. Eshra puts her best minds to this, with the Knights of Solace already having a barracks in Riva and the trade routes that have already been established.

Sasha is gather up 500 economic writs, 500 social writs, and 500 military writs for the roads coming through Giant's Reach. She is also offering to aid with the spreading of the good word of the trade route.

As Marquis of one of the more remote holdings, Gaston is thrilled at the prospect of expanding the Roads and making Cloudspine more accessible. Aside from lending Blackram's political support for the effort, Gaston will also dedicate silver, and military resources to help protect the engineers as they work through expanding into the wilder parts of Arvum.

Cullen will work with his brother-in-law, Lord Alessandro, to make sure that the section of the road that will link Greenhaven to the network (by running along the south bank of the river and establishing a ferry system just west of the fork, ideally with the aid of Rivenshari river captain expertise) will be well-defended during its construction. He will take personal command of a troop of light cavalry and archers. He will also inform any other soldiers, including the engineers, where the safest - and most dangerous - places in the area lie, and how best to fight in the region.

As Minister of Upkeep for Greenmarch, Alessandro is eager to collaborate on a project such as Lord Kaldur has put forth. He will work with the Seliki engineering corps, as well as all other engineers who are assisting, to devise the best route through Greenmarch lands for the roads, perhaps partly running near the river as suggested by his brother-in-law, Lord Cullen, for easier trade with those houses such as Rivenshari and others who are at the forefront of maritime trade. He will also assist with bookkeeping, allocations of funds if necessary, and various economic portions of the endeavor, should it be needed.

The Voice of House Lyonesse takes a personal hand in the great roadworks project, enthusiastic for the potential of growth it can bring to Lyonesse lands and its people. Lady Jenessa temporarily returns to Lyon's Redoubt to assist, providing insight into the geography of the area as well as the best routes for travel. Not only does she oversee the exchange of lumber for proper stones for the road surface, she also plots out the route itself with the Seliki engineers and Lord Kaldur. Furthermore, the Lyonesse offers use of what sailworthy ships they possess to expedite the transport of building materials up and down the river to the surrounding holdings of those involved. Not only is time spent and investments made, but Jenessa further encourages the locals of Lyon's Redoubt to make the experience a memorable one for the visiting engineers and Lord Kaldur himself, throwing a modest but personal banquet for the guests of House Lyonesse and all the workers who put in time and labor.

Reigna had been planning on building roads throughout Oakhaven to stimulate trade and facilitate troop movements throughout the March. Kaldur's plans dovetail perfectly into this plan, and she shifts her focus from just Oakhaven to the surrounding areas as well. She will be contributing resources from wood and stone, to engineers and laborers to help with the construction.

Olivia will draft a plan for House Ashford's particiaption, along with providing some necessary material support. Given her area of expertise, she will prioritize roads in Ashford territory to provide good access to typical regions of agricultural surplus so that these products can be moved to market more quickly without risk of spoilage.

Lilia Telmar offers maps and recommendations for routes through the Temarch, with particular diligence paid to their placement in respect to pre-existing towns and trading routes. She's trying to find that sweet spot between maximum efficiency in road construction and minimum disruption to the people of the land, who might like to use the roads but who don't want to give up their lands. She's tagged a particular river crossing for the establishment of a new bridge, and indicated that it is likely to become the site of a thriving inn catering to travelers.

In an effort to bring more interesting people to Acorn Hill, and support the travel development plan, Tessa is personally funding the construction of an inn in the town of Acorn Hill, with stables enough for larger groups of merchants, mercenaries and travellers that may be passing through. The Golden Dame, as the inn is called, also keeps a very comfortable room always open and free of charge to any musicians or entertainers that are willing to perform for their supper so to speak. The HOPE is that this will make the stays for every one more pleasent.

Kritr will put people working towards a road in the land he controls to link it with the rest of the road system and accept whatever help of engineers is offered.

House Grayson will be taking advantage of the economy of scale of the overall effort to acquire the supplies to improve the existing roads surrounding Bastion and Arx at favorable rates, with an eye to planning linkages for future expansion to the ducal territories of the Crownlands.

Saikland Greens is a small area but a link and a junction along the path between areas to the north and Iasu to the west and Ostria to the south should the route extend that far. The route, if it succeeds, is an opportunity for networking with other houses and fealities, for enhanced trade opportunities. The mappers, guards and engineers provided by Lord Kaldur to begin the initial planning and feasibility of the route are welcomed and she accompanies them during one of her trips to Saikland to make sure they find places that do not disturb the farming and vineyard, existing businesses, have resting points with water, camping areas, spots near villages and military posts for protection and provisions. They plan out areas to avoid such as difficult stream fords, the small bog to the south that moving inland a bit can circle. Lucita adds some of her military forces to the group as they look over the areas to the south and north and around the perimeter of Saikland, careful not to intrude into Fidante Holdings but to see the locations and condition of any existing routes and trails, help secure the areas within and adjacent to Saikland and the number and location of any abandoned groups along the way. Her charm and propaganda skills can sooth the way and help persuade some to join the compact rather than resist and prey upon the merchants using such a trade route. Once areas are secured, she will assess to see if improvements to her docks becomes necessary.

Sabella is well aware of the issues that might come up with this road and so she is ready to be on hand to talk it up to anyone and everyone that wants to listen. And even those that don't want to listen, painting a picture for people of the Compact of safe, faster travel and trade, and trying to pitch it to the Shavs that instead of having Compact people traipsing their way everywhere through their lands this will keep them all in one place and hey, they can set up stalls to sell them products along the way and everybody wins! Yay roads!

Tikva thinks this is a terrible idea. She has been repeatedly insistent that it is a terrible idea whenever it has come up. However, a number of her vassals are insisting on involving themselves in it anyway, and despite her best efforts to persuade him and others otherwise, the help of House Grayson has been sought. It is not in her to refuse what aid she can offer in order to defray some of the hazards that she perceives in creating a massive overland trade route through lands that are not held by the Compact. She does what she can to ensure that any workers are actively protected by soldiery, that there are relay stations set up along the route that she believes to be an ultimately doomed project so that messages and emergency cries for help when the raiding parties come can help protect them. Tikva does not anticipate that her efforts will be able to prevent anything from ending in disaster, loss of life and potential deep economic distress for those houses embarking on an ill-advised venture, but at least if she does something to try to stave off some of the worst, maybe she can mitigate the damage to people who insist on failing to follow her good advice.

Niklas will mostly make jokes about how they should extend the road to Stormward. Like, hey guys, why can't we do a road to Stormward? This is a massive undertaking, but you know what would really make you guys legends? Uh. A road to Stormward. Really, he'll keep doing it until people are annoyed with him. But only the people who are actually working on the project. For everyone else the celebrity prince will turn on the megawatt smile and gladhand like the white hot grease fire of charm and charisma he happens to be. He's no good with a sword, he doesn't run his own domain and he doesn't have an army to offer, but what he does have are contacts who can help to make sure the money gets to where it needs to be and parts more easily from those who may be reluctant to turn it over. Call it monetary logistics. You don't need to know what you're moving, you just need to move it.

As Minsiter of Infrastructure for the Crown, Jaenelle understands the captial city is certainly a hub of activity. Arx will continue to assist where needed, making sure the roads leading to and from Arx are kept safe to the traders as well as making sure the steets themselves are kept free from holes, cracks, or anything that might make travel harder. Jaenelle's focus will be the roads directly around Arx.

Jennyva has been given permission from Duke Malcolm to sign Graypeak up for this project and contribute writs, time, whatever Kaldur may need. Her expertise is in negotiations and marketing and she ensures that the merchants know to use these new roads to their advantages.

As a capable steward and Voice for Blackram, Teagan has stepped up to oversee her family's participation in this expansive project. As remote as the Cloudspine is, such a road will be greatly beneficial. She will gladly see to aiding in what ways she can beyond providing what Blackram will for the connection of their holdings to the road: primarily with her economic skills.

Sir Andry Bayweather seems more then interested in the idea of helping connect the compact into a more unified whole and is helping arrange patrols with the Knights of Solace as well putting in work to arrange funding for any sections which otherwise seem to be neglected

Seymour believes an effort like this can only further enhance the trade network between fealties, to the benefits of trade at all levels. Seymour is ensuring that there are ample resources to ensure the holdings in Stormwall and Ashford he is responsible for can be a part of this, and to establish new trade posts for Oak Mercantile where the need for additional trade along the new route may exist.

The Great Road is easily one of the most ambitious projects launched in recent years in the Compact, though the scope is so vast and the current state of travel in the Compact is so dangerous that it verges on quixotic. Still, the bold ambition is embraced by scores of notables in the Compact, and ambitious or no, they get to work with the massive project.

There are numerous challenges. First and foremost, the traditional respect for the autonomy of every domain holder. The Compact has always had paths, or even rough mud roads between major thoroughfares, and the Knights of Solace have long patrolled many of the most popular, but the proposed brand new road attracts notice of every domain holder that they would pass through, and this is hundreds of them. The majority welcome the increase in trade... provided a) it doesn't stir up an Abandoned response and b) that they aren't responsible for patrolling it with their own funds. That is relatively little help, and they are happy to profit from it, if it is at no cost to them. A smaller number enthusiastically welcome it, and are EAGER for an Abandoned response, and are actively looking forward to doing battle with their hated enemies. Particularly in the Oathlands, there's talk about 'cleansing their lands for good and all', which goes well outside the bounds of a friendly trade agreement, and is more than a little worrisome. Some of the talk goes well past a little worrisome, in fact. And a very few outright refuse to have any new road built on their land, despite all reasoning, pleading, threats, forcing the road to be built entirely around some random baronies and counties that simply do not wish to risk any sort of conflict with Abandoned or increase the flow of riff-raff through their borders.

But with initial agreements signed up, then comes construction. This is thousands upon thousands upon thousands of miles of road to build a road that unites the different domains on somethnig more than dirt, often overgrown, hunting paths. The sheer engineering this takes in laying down the stones and creating the waystations will stand as one of the most remarkable marvels done in the Compact in centuries. Much of the land goes through Abandoned controlled territory, even if it is ostensibly owned by the Compact, but the amount of forces brought make most of the Abandoned steer clear aside from the odd skirmish here and there as the road is being built with overwhelming force. But the key words are 'as the road is being built'.

The good news is that trade spikes up immediately, and many of the traders in the Compact are absolutely thrilled to have better overland paths in order to move their goods when rivers are inaccessible or impractical. It's a boon many of the domains, and the economic consequences should be strong, in the long term. The bad news is that there simply are not anywhere near enough Knights of Solace in the Compact to patrol thousands of miles of road. Certainly they do what they can, but the raids start immediately, and in great force, and the losses from the Knights of Solace start to mount, even as caravans start to hire sellswords and travel in greater numbers for protection. Which in turn, has prompted stronger raids. Much stronger.

The Great Road is an economic success, overall, despite the raids. And fame comes with such a large, daring project. But the social and political consequences are another matter all together, and those will be forthcoming.

Not every war is fought with weapons of steel and muscle behind it to wield with deadly purpose. Knowledge and logic are just as important in striving for and earning freedom, justice, and peace. Having a space for greater education and learning has been something that Jaenelle has always been passionate about, finding that understanding is just as powerful a tool. This center of learning will embrace knowledge, encouraging people from all walks of life to better themselves with books and scrolls about anything and every thing they might be interested in.

The library will be built in Lenosia, with hope to be spoken of as the hub of knowledge that people travel from far and wide to experience. Where mathematicians, scholars, historians, and occultists come to strengthen their comprehension of their fields of study, and are only too happy to share their knowledge in return with donations of time and written accounts of their works for others to read after they are gone. Though the large building is free for all to enter, the top floor of the library is corded off for future expansion into the arts of magic (though that might be just a mysterious whispers as to why its been blocked and only select few are free to pass).

The social resources will be put towards gathering books from other houses, the dark corners of the world and the rare first editions that might no longer be available. The economic resources will be put towards the building itself, the large expansive library will have huge vaulted ceilings and shelves for miles filled with every subject. Smaller rooms for more personal studies will be made available as well as lecture halls for those who wish to teach their knowledge to those traveling. The military resources will be the protection used to bring the books to the library and to oversee the work site as the building is built.

The Archduchess of Lenosia has always been a strong proponent of education as a means to better one's life, whether the person be a noble or a commoner. A better educated population is a more useful population when all sentimentality is stripped away from the matter and the typical Lycene pragmatism sets in. So, when Jaenelle first started mentioning that she wanted to helm such a project for Lenosia, Eleyna was thrilled and happy to work with her on it. Now, with a site selected and a plan for the Library's construction and accural of material in place, Eleyna sets her eyes on helping to flesh out the alchemical and apothercary texts of the Library, given that is her own specialty. While she assists Jaenelle, it is clear that this is the Princess' baby with the Archduchess offering advice and assistance where asked.

The Princess Jaenelle Velenosa's Library of Lenosia has been under construction for some time, an institution so large that it has significantly increased the size of the city. Going for miles, the library is stocked with thousands upon thousands of books, and has the deep throated approval of the Scholars of Vellichor who greatly appreciate any contributions to knowledge, and it has become a major attraction with much of the peerage wishing to go see the new library. Second only in size to the Great Archive, it may be years before it's fully stocked, but much of the Compact is incredibly excited about the Library.

Thirteen lit candles with thirteen objects before each surround Jaenelle as she kneels on the floor. Completely at peace, yes closed with a soft smile, she meditates before the ritual begins.

Her eyes open, and she begins, "it took me a long time to search within myself and those around me to find what I desire most for the world. In the end, I thought of my child and what I wish for them, as they will inherit not only what I wish but what we all in turn wish for. I can only hope what we've left for them is better than what we've been given."

"Love," Jaenelle states the first word, reaching for the scroll associated with it. On the paper are the vows she wrote for her wedding to Mydas. "Love for yourself. Those you surround yourself with. Those you have not met yet."

"Understanding," comes next, and burned at the second candle is a building blueprint for the Nox'alfar Embassy. "Sometimes you may not understand every action done by another, every reaction, but it is important to try."

"Traditions," a small wooden Thraxian toy ship is brought to it's candle, "and the power to embrace change when the tides do."

"Passion," a quill is held over the flame, ink mingling with the melted wax. "Whether the passions of the imagination, the arts, adventure, or personal advancement, each person should always follow what they are passionate about."

"Compassion." A piece of paper, clearly a copy of a page of an official document with names listed down the page. "These names are a handful of the refugees which came to Arx from Stormward. It is important to have compassion for those in need, for you never know when it will be you who requires aide next."

"Patience," a silk rose is burned in the tenth candle. "Patience, reasoning, logic. These are not a weakness when it comes to considering important decisions."

"Security," a chip of a boulder and the crushed dust of the rock is brought above the candle, the flame flickering, "this is a piece of the walls surrounding Arx that I took when parts of it were destroyed and rebuilt. May Arx's wall and those defending the city remain steadfast and strong."

"Loyalty," a ribbon of purple silk embroidered with a fox, "a favor I had made. Loyalty is a two way street, without showing it to others you can never expect it to be shown to you."

"Fortitude," a piece of leather. "This came from the grip of a sword won by Talen during the They Shall Rise competition. We shall always rise above pain or adversity."

"Honesty, and the ability to find you are free to be without judgement," Jaenelle says, and with this she burns a silken veil of green.

"Generosity," a key is placed within the appropriate flame, "the bedroom I lived in when I first became a Velenosa was the Generosity room. It was more than a simple name, but a virtue I embrace with every interaction whether that be stranger or friend."

"Freedom," another scroll, rolled up and burnt. This one a marriage contract, though nothing beyond that can be seen. "Freedom can mean many things to many people. From the Thralls of Thrax, the slaves within other Kingdoms, to the less extreme, freedom is needed by all."

"Prosperity, like the others can mean more than one thing to more than one person," she lifts the final object to the final flame, a handful of leaves pulled from the creeping vines found on the Velenosa grounds. "Comfort. Growth. Innovation. The ability to move forward."

Mydas is present, a silent figure as he watches his wife's ritual, listening, watching, and more importantly, remembering. Witness to Jaenelle's ritual.

HOLY MACKEREL WE'RE LEARNING MAGIC. Jeffeth is definitely calm. HE'S CALM. He definitely is not hyperventilating or making a scene. That is not happening. It might be happening a little. Jeffeth is FOCUSED like no other. Probably too focused, drawing pictures of exactly how Jaenelle's standing, what she's wearing, when she pauses to take a breath. Someone should probably let him know that he doesn't have to wear the same dress Jaenelle is wearing. Jeffeth is so hype, but he's also trying to be a very good student. It's probably like watching a hyper-energetic golden retriever puppy in its first week of obedience training. Trying so hard, but... MAGIC!!! Also. Everyone here gets a hug. Jaenelle probably gets ten.

Like her brother, Eleyna watches and listens carefully, her pale blue eyes riveted on Jaenelle as she goes through the steps of the ritual.

Talen's presence is one that's abnormally silent for the majority of that ritual. There might be even one of those rare smiles when Jaenelle mentions the sword he gave her after the competition he fought years ago. He's there physically, in spirit, or whatever-- in support. Witnessing that offering, that ritual, as it was meant to be.

Calista is present to observe Jaenelle's ritual. She watches quietly and becomes still like a placid lake. Each step committed to memory.

Sudara is observing with the kind of quiet intensity that suggests she is also doing her best to commit the whole thing to memory, though her expression is gentle - almost yearning.

It all starts so well. People gather, some quietly, others with barely-contained excitement (looking at you, Jeffeth). But they settle quickly, calmed by the assurance Jaenelle brings to the moment. She is at peace, and that peace fills the room as she softly begins. In the thirteenth hour, on the thirteenth day, she casts her ritual to cleanse the primum and she begins with words of hope.

"I can only hope what we've left for them is better than what we've been given."

She starts with love, offering a page of her wedding vows. But in counterpoint, a man's voice whispers, "We stood witness, though you saw us not."

Understanding, and now a woman's voice whispers. "Forgive us. We could not stay."

Traditions, and there is a harsh voice, rough and scarred that adds, "Set your sights on the horizon, sail where you will. Tears in our wake, never at our wake."

And so it goes. Each emotion she mentions, and a soft voice whispers a counter, though no one in the room with them speaks save for Jaenelle herself. Until the end of the ritual, and then suddenly everyone in the room is filled with that same peace Jaenelle exudes. That same sense of self, the poise and the calm and the purpose. Even Jeffeth settles now, and as the ritual finishes, they all breathe a little lighter now. And that serenity stays with them, and takes several days to fade.

Venturo is drumming up business with a variety of the fine houses of Arvum. Specifically, he's working with them to craft trade deals that will result in the lease of lands in the houses domains to create breweries and cultivate local crops. Additionally, he will be starting the establishment of The Kismet Carnival, a festival in each of these geographical locations, one that does honor to the Raconteur name: games of chance, and small entertaining stories played out by showmen, acrobats and more. These small snippets and games are all too appeal to the everyday man.

Venturo's role in this endeavor, beyond pulling together the group that is helping, will be pulling all of his old strings to call in favors. Builders, performers, merchant, tradesmen and the like that he can use to help align the endeavor for success.

It is no secret Khanne has enjoyed the brews and stories of Master Brewer Venturo Thayne. So when he came to her with an opportunity that would bring his talents to her lands while helping to show the rest of the Compact some of the best aspects of Halfshav lands, she jumped at the chance. She helps him find a good spot in the city of Whitehold to open a brewery and not too far away from that, a parcel of farmland to grow the unique ingredients that can thrive in the tundra climate. Of course, she would work into the agreement the caveat that he must always offer some variety of Whiskey as well.

She is, personally, most excited to help promote the aspect of the Kismet Carnival. While the North knows how to enjoy life, such treats as the carnival would help boost the morale of the people of Whitehold and nearby. That it is a traveling fair would benefit not only the Halfshav Duchy, but all of the Redrain region, of course something she would be proud to be part of.

In addition, Venturo has asked her to travel to all the regions he will be starting this project in, to help analyze the lands available for farming and help create a land management plan that would help grow the most beautiful, healthy and hearty plants he can. She agrees to do so (with the permission of those leasing the lands to him of course) and looks forward to seeing the homelands of others, perhaps in areas she has not ventured to before.

An undertaking of this scale with so many moving parts requires contracts, and someone to write and review them all. That's where Amari the lawyer will come in, focusing on making sure the agreements are all a) legal and b) fair for all parties. With input from Venturo and the partners he's already brought on board or will yet, she'll formalize the deals and write up stipulations that will cover contingencies so that whether the venture succeeds or fails, everyone knows what to expect from beginning to end. This, hopefully, will put investors and potential backers at ease, knowing there's a solid framework behind the business.

She'll be happy to explain all the particulars of the trade agreements, and address and amend any sticking points throughout the process until everyone is satisfied.

As her own mother hobbies at brewing in Farhaven, Gwenna was quite excited by the opportunity presented by Venturo along those lines. With the limited growing season of the northlands, the cultivation of more crops in Farhaven could help with both trade and what may be stored over the winters. Lands available for lease for that purpose, with the permission of their owners, would surely been a boon. The north loves their whiskey, so a brewery that would not impose upon, but rather work in harmony with the others in that region, is also an ideal opportunity. She will speak with those locally in charge of such things and hopefully sway them to the ideas.

What truly draws Gwenna in is the festival though. Considering the recent Pirate War and the losses experienced by those in and around Farhaven, The Kismet Carnival would be a welcome activity and surely bolster spirits. Gwenna brings 10,000 of her own personal funds for use by families who many not have the disposable income for such things after the war. She will spend the first day of the festival handing out the silver herself and warming people to the ideas of both the festival as well as potential commerce.

The scope of such a large endeavor requires many elements to be drawn together from the permission to lease lands through out different cities in Arvum, the contractual agreements that must be drawn up, to the building of structures for a brewery or stages and stands for the kismet festival. There is also the hiring of skilled workers for all stages from building, to service and performance that requires careful oversight and strategic set up. Terese has offered her assistance on the global scale of the project in order to aid Venturo in the latter tasks once the agreements and contracts for land have been finalized. She is willing to travel to each of the sites as needed in order to best assist in coordination efforts.

Jonathan is a man of the soil, and always has been, and has recently been made the Keaton advisor to all things agricultural! As such, he is in an excellent position to provide assistance to Venturo's efforts in his own land, helping to clear out space to grow all the hops, corn, and (in the case of the Keaton Lands) pumpkins that will be used to brew the fine concoctions of Master Thayne. In addition, Count Kael has already cleared a brewery to be set up in Oakhaven, adding to the economic flow of this already-burgeoning county. He will, of course, welcome the input of Lady Khanne, as well as any others, and also in turn assist them in planning out the plots growing in other lands, expanding his own experience and hopefully providing his own insights into the deceivingly complicated art of squeezing productivity out of lands that otherwise might run barren or go unused.

Pasquale agrees happily to lend House Malespero's support to Venturo's efforts. He puts some economic power behind it to promote the project and get the breweries established, and will assist in negotiating with representatives in the Lyceum wine country as to securing a location. Most of his passion though, likewise, is for the Kismet Carnival and its possibilities as a boon for the land following the devastation of the wars in Setarco. He directs the sailors and merchants under Nilanza's direct authority to spread the word of it and support it as they can, asking them to play it up as an initiative that could restore cheer and the coin throughout the region.

Natalia is assisting on behalf of House Keaton in the establishment of Venturo's venture in Keaton Lands -- Elmhurst, to be specific. She is coordinating with the others on the project where it relates to the branch there, smoothing the way for the industry moving in and selling it to the locals, helping people work together, and all of that fun stuff. She is putting a significant focus on putting locals to work for the project, working to ensure that those employed in Keaton lands are from the Keaton lands -- or are heavily vetted for their 'fit' with the local community. Her focus is the long-term success of this project where it relates to Elmhurst.

Jaenelle uses her influence as not only a master economist, the Voice of Velenosa, and knowledge of infrastructure to see that the Lyceum welcome Venturo's Carnival with as much smoothness as possible. She personally assists with finding an appropriate location within Lenosia for the Carnival to stop, as well as offering backing by providing monetary and resource assistance. Beyond the location, she assists with finding local tradesmen to help, providing jobs and boosting moral, especially with the influx of Prodigals who've arrived lately who might not have had the opportunities to find stable work yet.

Oh! Caith has found just the PERFECT spot for Venturo's brewery on Maelstrom. It will be a great way to not only bring a bit of commerce into that particular area and be an opportunity to teach thralls and former thralls life skills but also: who doesn't love a brewery?! It's fun and joyful! A place for the community to come together and share laughter and stories over drinks! And to get people excited about this, Princess Caith throws a party with all the food and drink (Raconteur, of course) people could want. There is dancing! There are stories! There are songs! But she is also on hand to listen to any concerns people might have and address them -- she is extremely empathetic and wants to make sure that everyone is onboard. Cheers!

Aureth's role in this is as representative of the Faith (and occasional consumer of fine beverages). He's not entirely unfamiliar with the economics involved as a former purchaser and purveyor of liquor and beer, but primarily what he is here to do is to offer his prayers and blessings over the croplands in honor of Petrichor and the Pantheon, and also to noise about quite a bit about having done so with the showmanship of a fair to decent propagandist.

Grady assists by involving the Deepwoods. After speaking with Marquessa Samantha, the Deepwoods allocate land for Venturo to use for farming, and on which to build a brewery. They commit resources to helping this be established in as expedited a manner as possible. They send guards as well, and work on trade roads throughout Deepwood lands, to improve and ease passage and to keep the area safe. In return, they expect the bump in trade to be good, and besides, everyone's happier when there's good beer to be had right? It's a good deal for them, as increasing economic activity, finding jobs for more people who live in the area, and generally improving the quality of life is what Grady feels the ruling family should do for those in their care.

Cambria has given her permission for Venturo's project to expand its reach into Ostria as well. She invites both himself and Lady Khanne to tour available lands for lease, herself traveling with the pair as well. Funds are allocated to the endeavor to assist in establishing the brewery and acreage for farming and cultivating local crops. Guards are called in for safety's sake, and Cambria also calls in her advisors within Ostria itself to begin drafting plans to see that local roads are kept in good repair, and reminds her cabinet as well that with the recent boom to their population, there are plenty of locals ready and willing to work - be it at the brewery itself, or in conjunction with the Kismet Carnival. Rumor has it the Marquessa of House Mazetti is considering the notion of expanding another series of walls around Ostria, should business continue pouring into the city-state to offer additional safety and security to those who both work and call their home the Walled City by the Sea.

Venturo Thayne, proprietor of Raconteur Brewing, rolls out a new plan for what he's calling the Kismet Carnival! Designed to highlight the best of the breweries, to expand his brewing ventures into new lands and reach new civiliations, he has been making huge inroads in many areas. In Whitehold he opens a brewery, and Lady Khanne is on hand to help with the opening and promote it. She also travels with him to various points of interest around the Compact, helping select appropriate places to harvest, so that he can create local vintages unique by domain. It's an aggressive, interesting plan and the people seem to love the idea.

In Farhaven, Princess Gwenna Redrain finds a good place to lease to him, working with him - and donating some of her own personal funds to the venture - to help bring a bit of lighthearted cheer to her people who have undergone such travails of late. Jonathan Fieldstone and Natalia Whisper coordinate efforts on the part of the Keatons, careful in their selection of an appropriate place to locate a brewery with the blessing of Count Kael. Lord Pasquale arranges room in Nilanza, Princess Jaenelle in Lenosia, and Marquessa Cambria in Ostria - ensuring that the Lyceum does not go without the joy of the festival.

In Old Oak, a new brewery is established under the direction of Lord Grady Deepwood, whose complementary wines go nicely alongside the famed Deepwood Cider. In Maelstrom, Princess Caith Thrax has found the absolutely perfect place - or so she tells literally anyone who will listen - and she is excited, nay, THRILLED to guide construction there.

Lady Amari Keaton draws up the complicated paperwork, and manages to keep all the names and places straight - the mark of a good lawyer. Princess Terese Valardin helps as well, working as strategic direction overseeing so many buildings and workers all going up at once. And Archlector Aureth also assists, talking up the project and encouraging people to work together and to enjoy some truly excellent vintages.

It is a massive undertaking funded by a great many people, but as people flock to the market and enjoy the wares of the Kismet Trading Company, they remark that this is the best of the Compact - and it's hard to argue when drinking the fine vintages.

Also hard to argue when drunk on the fine vintages. Which is probably all part of Venturo's master plan.

Rejoice!

Lucita has a network of contacts made while Voice of Igniseri. She will ask them to be advisors, consultants and trade partners, encourage use of Saikland docks and Mirrored Ballroom and start to accept refugees. She will invest 1000 economic and 250 social writs into helping the economic development plan detailed below to succeed. Most of this is just evaluation and investing resources to both improve existing things and add necessary ones for refugees to be added wisely to the population and trying new trade venues to help keep new citizens gainfully employed, all of which relate to each other. She uses her ability to get along with people (charm) combined with her ability to find out information (investigation) and facts she needs to know to initiate the plans she and Marcos have made.

To be initiated immediately after Estaban's celebration of life.
1. Assess the situation--visit Saikland directly with Marcos
-Present united leadership of new Baroness-Regent and Voice,
foster cooperation and acceptance of Saiklanders.
-Listen not only to what is said, but to what is not said for
cues to problems, needs amid the people amd the barony.
-Evaluate Saikland Greens as Princess Jaenelle and Marquis
Hadrian Mazetti taught. Goal-aid growing population to be
self sufficient. Housing, sanitation, clean water, jobs,
education, health, faith, security-military all considered.
New farms, businesses, to avoid infringing on livelyhood
already existing ones, avoid high risk flood/fire areas.
-Find out if there are known but un-utilized natural resources
present to be used without altering the bucolic aspect
of the barony. (see ooc intent questions)

2. As Lucita did successfully with Granato while working with ARRG to place Siege refugees, she will carefully accept refugees seeking a new place to live. (Those evacuated or impacted by Gyre crisis who ask to relocate accepted as a compassionate offer, not done to steal vassals of another house, and not Southport prodigals) Care is taken to avoid lack of food, housing, security, services and means of self-support. Effort is made to see this does not cause disease or damage existing economy, buisinesses, and farms.

3. Improve existing infrastructure, use what exists more efficiently
and make necessary additions.
-Food: Farms to grow food the populace needs, extra stored or
preserved for emergencies. Nearby water for fish, meadows
for cattle, game to hunt are also sources to be used.
-Education-Faith: Encourage highly trained healers, midwives,
craftsmen, scholars. Make sure each God has an altar some-
where. (In a village, a modest temple with altars to each
works. Make sure there is a usable library for Scholars.
-Health: Adequate sanitation, clean water, healers, midwives,
herb gardens to serve the population. Keep as healthy and
disease-free as possible.
-Economy: Improve and build docks, security, and warehouses
to make a desirable provision stop for ships and boats.
Ships able to carry fewer provisions means more cargo
room, fresher food and water, and visitors encouraged
to view and use the Grand Mirrored Ballroom, bars, inns,
and shops. Increased usage should occur as a thriving
safe impression is presented from the docks onward.
Tor (Calista), Granato (Luis) contacted re this.
-Economy 2: Improve brewery, winery. Seek expanded venues
of trade so goods to trade with Oathlanders or houses
that produce alcoholic beverages. (ooc_intent explains)

Hadrian will be utilizing the Arvum Refugee Relief Group to assist Baroness-Regent Lucita and House Saik with the integration of the new population bound for Saikland Greens. Whether it is material or refugees from the recent conflict itself, Hadrian's hope is to foster a greater sense of ease in the transition. He'll be investing resources, materials, and people into the endeavor. While also utilizing the social power of Hadrian himself to assist Baroness-Regent Lucita within her role of acceptance by the people of Saikland Greens; the former Duke of Southport isn't above using friendly charm to name-drop Baron Eos or Baroness Kima Saik and the long-time friendship that he had with either of the pair in order to remind citizens of Saikland Greens that while Lucita may not be a born Saik, she is the Baroness-Regent left to tend the seat of power until the Saik heir comes of age.

Luis will help with many things that he's offered to Lucita in her time of need. Be it through helping with the Saik troops. Aiding the Economy and distributing the population as needed, or simply to encourage those who remain to stay loyal to the Saik line. Through his various skills and charming personality, he will support Lucita, helping to draw the population to follow her as well as to encourage her armies to draw strength from their allies and focus on the rebuilding and protection of the Saik lands in this time of need.

Marcos intends to travel with Lucita and present the unified front to those of the Saik lands and else where. Durring the trip he will be assessing the security needs of their lands as well as listening to his people. He plans on making himself available to talk to the people and truely listening to their concerns. Gettign a feel for their needs and passing this information along to Lucita whom may not be seen yet as a 'true' Saik despite her marriage to Estaban.
He will be looking for easy fixes as well as the hard ones and also trying to get a feel for how much is 'too much' change for the often easy going and content folk of his homeland so he can make recomendations to Lucita and ease her way into the role of Baroness.

Between her experience of assisting House Velenosa run smoothly as well as her position within the Crown as a Minister, Jaenelle has shared her knowledge with Lucita on trade routes, the importance of infrastructure, and the need for strengthening allies for assistance. Lucita has come to many public meetings Jaenelle has hosted as well as sought her out for private discussions on how to better aid her people.

Quenia is actively teaching Lucita the various skills she needs to help run the Barony of Saik. Quenia has started with leadership, teaching Lucita the finer points of how to assess various situations that will come up within her position, and handle them in greater detail than she did as Voice of House Igniseri. Quenia is also serving as a general consultant for Lucita should she run into any snags, offering advice only when asked for it -- and always in the presence of another member of the Saik family so there is no perceived bias with regards to how Lucita is leading her people. She will continue by teaching Lucita the art of diplomacy and propaganda as well, so Lucita might be able to broker better, more favorable deals for her family, and shed the family in a favorable light for any actions they take.

Karadoc will operate as the minimally motivated (to most eyes) jack-of-all trades. Whether it's to charm others alongside the Baroness-Regent Lucita, or casually name-dropping his Saik cousins who bravely sacrificed their lives for various wartime causes, or speaking up in ways that will lift spirits and raise morale wherever necessary. Although, behind the scenes, Karadoc is using his specialized knowledge of economics in order to truly help the cause.

Under Baroness-Regent Lucita's guidance, Saikland Greens are starting to recover. With the strong support of Lord Marcos and Lord Karadoc Saik, the three of them travel Saik lands and get a real feel for what is needed. After consultation with allies - and it does not go unnoticed that Baroness Lucita is making allies of consequence in the forms of Princess Jaenelle Velenosa, Lord Luis Igniseri, Marquessa Quenia Igniseri, and Duke Hadrian Mazetti - she orders the establishment of several large furnaces for making glass. From stemware to windows to pieces of art, new and beautiful glassworks are starting to come out of Saik forges and finding their way into eager hands.

After the tragic loss of Baron Estaban, Saikland Greens is starting to slowly recover - capitalizing on some of the sand found on its stunning beaches the new glasswork from the seat of the Saik family is particularly beautiful. The people making it are taking pride in what they make too, and as a result morale in the Barony is slowly turning around.

An impressive feat for a new Baroness indeed.

Alaric is marshalling the various Crown organizations to respond to the crisis. Three million silver total has been budgeted to the Crown's overall crisis response. As the Faith is concentrating mostly on outreach to the freed thralls, The Crown Observers are leading the Crown's effort to assist non-thrall citizens of the Compact mitigate the effects of the economic disruption, with the Ministry of Defense tasked with arranging the Observers' (and all that cash's) security through their various contacts. The primary focus is on small individual families that were reliant on thrall debt payments for support, giving them a bridge and a buffer to make their future plans without the threat of immediate bankruptcy forcing their hands. Back in Arx, the Ministry of Infrastructure has been tasked with finding 'underutilized areas' of Arx to repurpose to handle the influx of housing needs from newly arrived freedpeople.

Alaric personally is holding lots of meetings to drum up overall assistance, encourage cooperation between the various efforts, smooth over disagreements, and generally instill confidence that the Compact's collective actions will be equal to the task before them.

Canvasing neighborhoods within the upper and lower boroughs, the Minister of Infrastructure has sent out her staff to knock on doors and perform a small census in specific areas. Each empty home or apartment is noted and rented by the Crown to home freed thralls who wish to relocate to the captial city with the expectation that they will learn a useable, marketable trade, becoming productive members of society within a year of relocation.

That level of investment with Alaric and Jaenelle's help has a profound effect on Kennex's ability to recover. Stormward's regular citizens, particularly the ones that had been bankrupt by thrall debt being wiped away, are able to recover, and the economy begins to function once more. In Arx, there's a significant number of refugees that find housing and employment, particularly in the boroughs. Arx sees a small but significant uptick in economic recovery as a result, and both Kennex and the Crown sees their incomes increase as a result of three million silver in investment.