Thlayli
Le Pétit Prince
@emu: I'm not that upset. Just kinda meh.
DaftNES 3: Alternate-World Fresh Start
- Thread starter Daftpanzer
- Start date
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
UPDATE 2:
Years 900 to 1500
CRADLE ONE:
Records tell of a time when summers are short and winters are long. More of the north gives way to tundra, where only a few tribes can survive. A chain of migrations is set in motion. These migrations collide with a world already undergoing wars, plagues and famines.
On the western edge of the 'Middle Sea', the kingdom of the Rhu (Rhuhia) is forged after a bloody series of wars between rivals and with other tribes, some of them migrants from the north. Around this time there is a sudden appearance of ornate bronze burial goods. All evidence points to some relatively-swift social changes. Bronze axes begin to clear the forest for farming, while the mining of tin and silver also brings these people in touch with the trading ships of the east. Meanwhile to the west lie the islands of Alach, surrounded by the stormy 'true' sea, home to the mysterious mystics of the giant standing-stones, who seem to have great influence with the tribes on the mainlands.
Luca becomes home to the Ethaliri, a people said to originate from the shores Rhua, sharing much in common with the Rhuhia. The Ethaliri carve out a new home for themselves, their warriors becoming well known for their ferociousness and their fondness of mighty war-hammers.
After centuries of strife, the Ongens are blessed with famous Sea-Kings who are able to focus efforts on the systematic conquest of all the islands of Etua. Their final victory is commemorated with the building of a fine palace, and under their rule the islands become a centre of trade. Now the great fleet of the Ongens grows restless; there is temptation to return to the old wars of raiding and piracy, though it seems this is resisted by the new order of merchants and traders.
A new dynasty of Calengian rulers turn their attentions to the sea, becoming briefly involved in the island wars of Cria, but are rewarded by massive floods and storms at home, evidence that the gods are displeased. Invasion by barbarian tribes follow, and the ancient city of Calenge faces repeated raids and sieges. It seems the wild forests of the north refuse to be tamed so easily.
The endless wars in the islands of Cria, if not exactly resolved, come to a temporary halt as the Novai get their revenge against the towns of the Napodi. With the help of a mercenary Kaerlan warband, the Novai finally achieve some crushing victories and emerge as strongest faction on the islands, though the foreign tribes and die-hard remnants of the Napodi remain something of a threat. The Calengians establish a port-settlement, though the Novai are not eager to cooperate, especially as the Calengians are accused of aiding their enemies at times. The legendary glories of the past still seem out of reach, and Etua remains the main centre of trade in the region.
After generations of hardship, and the decline of the old Napodian cults, the people look to the Idovai for inspiration; The cult of the Idovai gods is one that seeks to celebrate life and its pleasures. Though dismissed as nothing more than wine-sodden orgies by some writers, the truth is not so simple. It seems that Idovai priestesses are well educated and held in high regard by the islanders of this time, both in Cria and Etua as their influence spreads to the palace of the Ongens.
Throughout this era the Rattram descend from their mountain strongholds to raid and pillage the lands of Qan'ma, the inhabitants referred to, perhaps dismissively, as the 'cow people'. The fighting also spilling over into the lands of Chari at times. The people of the Iksander Antar'ah suffer great hardship. The earth tells its own story - Iksander settlements and places of worship falling out of use, covered over with layers of ash, topped with carved stones inscribed with Rattram script, recording and boasting of the exploits of great Rattram warriors for all eternity. The burial mounds of Geskh are suddenly filled with Iksander treasures - many artefacts originally traded from across the 'Middle Sea' and beyond. The figure of 'Grandfather White Beard' passes into myth and legend.
Yet the Iksander civilization is not extinguished; their people turn to their faith for inspiration, become adept with the horse-drawn chariot, and gain a greater foothold in the lands of Chari, as the natives join forces against the Rattram raids. It seems much of the population is often rallied for a mobile defence, returning to old nomadic ways for a time, harassing the Rattram invaders in turn. There is no evidence of mass enslavement. Yet the old power structure is weakened. A new breed of zealot-warriors arises in Qan'ma, but they are not of Iskander stock; the Salkadji are descendents of other tribes who have adopted and mutated the Iksander faith, though they swear allegiance to the Iskander rulers and to the defence of Qan'ma.
A golden age comes to the lands of Hurud. The Hurians bestow their cities with aqueducts and sewers, keeping disease at bay. Harvests are abundant and trade goods flow in ever greater quantity. The pride of the people is manifest in a great wonder, the Temple of Eredos. Its ornate colonnade is built to correspond to the Golden Ratio and is made of finest Makar marble. It is said to be the most beautiful building in the world, and inside resides another marvel, the great golden statue of Eredos, the god of the Sun.
For the neighbouring Sarakites, this is an age of legendary voyages along the 'Eastern Sea', and the treacherous waters beyond. Attempts to circumnavigate the coast of the great continent end in failure, as legends tell of mountainous coastlines in both east and west, lined with razor-sharp rocks, beset by strong currents and prone to sudden storms. In later years the 'Golden Ships' of the Sarakites content themselves with voyages to the southern lands of Mlano and Sulundi, often with Shahanar merchants onboard.
The basics of iron working are mastered by the Sarakites, with more than a little help from the desert peoples of Boro, and the techniques soon spread to the Hurian cities. But it does not immediately replace bronze as metal of choice, and with the rest of the known world still trading copper and tin, there is not a great abundance of quality iron ores.
In the misty mountains of Mriz, the cultures of the Kaerlan and Vetharil enter a more mature phase. Aside from some minor wars and intrigues between the two peoples, things seem relatively peaceful overall. Under the rule of the legendary Rundri Galaen Keldara, the impregnable fort of Kurdaegh is founded. The influence of Kaerlan mysticism spreads into Jrika, and Novai writings record the adventures of a band of Kaerlan warriors who travelled the islands of Cria for a time, doing battle against the Napodi and earning rich rewards. Meanwhile the Vetharil become great masters of bronze working, producing the finest of ornate swords and armour that are famed across the known world. The Kaerlan and the legions of Vethmenari are a deterrent to the roaming tribes, and inadvertently do much to shelter the lands of Hurud and Makar in the south.
The Shahanar and Tharnites suffer a devastating earthquake in their mountain homeland, destroying the great Tharnite temple and large parts of the old city of Arana, blocking passes with landslides and collapsing some of the old gem mines. And despite measures to keep disease out of their lands, the pestilence is eventually spread to Shahan by tribes invading from the north-west. The Tharnites see these events as divine warnings against adopting the ways of the Shahanar. But despite disorder and hardship lasting for generations, the defences of Arana hold out, and recovery begins. Shahanar merchants manage to bring back riches from new trade routes expanding elsewhere. However Shahan does begin to dwindle as a trade centre, due to competition from the ships and cities of Hurud and from the new desert traders, not to mention the general violence disorder in north-eastern lands...
All across the middle-north, from the lands of Jrika to Markhan, there are a chaotic series of invasions and migrations. The old powers of the En Corthan, Nartozieroni and the Tephites all survive, but in various states of weakness. Waves of disease spread across the land, carried by migrants and exiles.
Marcion, the legendary King of Knowledge in En Corthan, rules over a brief period where all of Zamar is united, the arts of bronze working and writing are adopted, and an expedition to aid the Haskites of Lothas in their war against the Nartozieroni is briefly considered. But Marcion dies all to soon, leaving his successors to face new wars with newcomers from the north, and the coming of the great plagues, all of which takes its toll on the people.
Blaming the Haskites for the great plague that has already ravaged the lands of Lothas, Shahahshah Kymlickos rallies the Nartozieroni for war. They adopt the ways of the chariot and, after some painful lessons, eventually triumph over their foes and enslave their people. The last remnants of Haskite nobility seek refuge in the southern desert. But barbarian tribes become more involved towards the end of the war, and continue to arrive in greater numbers afterwards. Old alliances break down and the Nartozieroni find themselves fighting new enemies. The dynasty of Kymlickos comes to an inglorious end, some Nartozieroni cities now under barbarian rule.
Among the Halkska are a few tribes who stay and adapt to the worsening climate in the north. The rest of their people find themselves widely scattered. Records hint at involvement in the wars of Zamar and Lothas, but by the end of this age large numbers of Halkska nomads have established themselves peacefully in the eastern lands of Khoda and Arkhad, bordering the great eastern sea at the edge of the world.
The first Tephite 'empire' comes to a halt with the rebellion of the Sa'ad Danåb. While a initial uprising of zealots fails to free the rest of the slaves and proves little more than an irritation, the last of the Tephite emperors heads out from the great palace of Karu to go on campaign in the eastern lands of Markhan. That campaign proves successful, but back in Karu the lost tribe of the Sa'ad Danåb finally returns from across the great desert. Although the peoples of Hloga refused to follow, the wanderers are able to join up with the zealots, retake the settlements of the oasis and finally oust the Tephite garrison from the great palace. The people are free, and in their thanks they embrace the cult of Tvåtinojanggut, the Two Bearded Women.
A shrine in the deserts of Chard marks the place where the exhausted lost tribe received the inspiration to carry on towards Karu, finding sacred diamonds in the wall of the cave. Soon new trade routes work their way across the desert. The people of Nakkra Ardi are the first to breed herds of domesticated camels, while the Queendom of Ka Molo arises in the paradise lands of Hloga. Great Queen Ri, said to have been fathered by one of the Sa'ad Danåb wanderers, unites many of the local tribes and rules over a growing centre of trade, stocked with exotic spices, fruits, sugar, animal pelts and precious stones from the jungles beyond.
CRADLE TWO:
This is the age of great wars between the Xitaan and Zharu, involving all the peoples of the world, as it is known to Zharu writers of the time. The bloodiest battles are fought during the very first war, as 'God-Emperor-General Yuchigo' leads his personal creation, the newly-unified army of Xitaan, on a campaign of conquest into the lands of Zhunun, the first step in a plan to conquer all the way to the great waters at the western edge of the world. Yuchigo has judged the eastern lands to be too barbaric to be worth tackling for now, though he takes care to recruit talented charioteers from the lands of Yalu.
The soldiers of the Zharu and their tribal allies prove to be a tough obstacle. Although generally inexperienced with warfare, the Zharu have the benefit of iron and steel blades, and consistently show discipline in battle. The Xitaan are frustrated for many years. After enlisting the aid of nomadic Vakar warriors, the Zharu army is eventually beaten down, but the Xitaan lose thousands more men in sieges, including Yuchigo himself. None of his successors share his grand ambitions, and over the following centuries they struggle as much to control their own soldiers as to complete the final elusive victory over the Zharu.
While the Vakar warriors remain in service of the Xitaan kings, their old cousins in the east find themselves under the rule of the new Houlau, borrowing much from earlier Vakar kingdom, though hardly as aggressive; peace is maintained with the Vauri people of the coastal lands.
Tarezisis culture spreads further east, and prospers from the opening of new silver mines. The Tarezisis mingle with their cousins the Haiu, who famously develop the art of cultivating silk at this time.
In the deserts of Tarakan, a kingdom seems to magically sprout up from a fortified trade post; the traders of the Tarak make use of elephants and tough breeds of alpaca-like animals to cross between oases, trading everything from spice and cotton to silver, diamonds and silk, and potions derived from rare desert plants.
The climate cools slightly, and larger areas of the far south freeze over, but there is not the same mass migrations as seen elsewhere in the world. The lands of the Aquen seem blessed by divine forces, remaining slightly milder and more fertile. Whether or not the legendary Oltac every truly existed, the Yenleta Sav of this age prove able to maintain relative peace and order. Their wisdom is respected by non-Aquen, who begin send gifts and tribute in exchange for having disputes settled. Aquen culture becomes anchored on the small city of Weaqaunsui, nothing more than a small town compared to other cities of the time, yet it grows in importance as a religious site. Aquen nomads eventually venture far to the east, settling in the lands of Huar and Sailan, though Weaqaunsui remains a place of pilgrimage for them.
CRADLE THREE:
A new dynasty of Hulukap leaders comes to power, ruling over a time of relative peace and prosperity, but attitudes to remnants of the old Hubrian order remain hostile. Even in the northern lands of Lani, the Neo-Hubrian cultists find themselves pursued with a vengeance, their monuments destroyed once again. The surviving cultists flee into the deserts of Chiru, continuing their dazzling rituals of blood sacrifice amongst the natives there. The Chwinqua peoples are unsettled by the Hulukap intrusions.
In the jungles of Zakat, the new power of Holuc emerges, based on agriculture, trade and especially warfare. Although their numbers are small, the warriors of Zakat are known for their skills and ferociousness in battle, and their neighbours are wary of them uniting under one ruler.
Harao seafarers gradually extend their network of trade contacts along the coasts of the mainland, and further south across the unpredictable seas.
Inshore from the great lagoon-harbour of the Harao, deep in the jungles of the largest of the Sollo islands, lies the great wonder of the Agrians. A massive walled enclosure keeps out the jungle. Within are a series of smaller enclosures, surrounded by ornately-carved stone spires, many of them decorated with gold and precious stones, and all brightly painted. At the heart of the complex is a shallow stepped pyramid, topped by a pool of water, with a great wooden tower built over and above. It is here that the Agrian mystics come to meditate on the nature of existence. Though many of their ideas are beyond the grasp of the common people, the culture of the Agrians takes another turn, gaining a greater influence over the Harao after what has already been many centuries of coexistence.
NPC DIPLO:
From the Idovai
To the Novai
We offer [0.5e per turn] in exchange for your protection and support, and for our acolytes to travel on your ships.
From the Haskite remnants (chariot in Karu)
To Sa'ad Danåb, the Shahanar
We offer our considerable military expertise for [0.5e per turn, no obligation to continue subscription!]
From the Tharnites
To the Shahanar
The omens say that we must not forsake our own traditions. However we do not forget the kindness you have shown. We will send you a tribute of [0.5e per turn], and once we have rebuilt our great temple we will plead with the gods to share their mercy upon your people.
From the God-Emperor-General of the Xitaan
To the Aquen
We propose a sworn treaty of everlasting peace between our peoples
NOTES:
This may look totally effortless, but that's only because I'm a genius
hmm. Its actually pretty intense work, lots of work, on a par with DaftNES2. I am quite concerned about this, especially considering its only turn 2. Any idea of this being a fast-paced NES goes out the window now. Be warned, its going to be weekly updates at the very best. If that's too slow for your tastes, I fully understand.
Anyway, if anyone reading this is actually considering joining, there is plenty of room in Cradles #2 and #3, IF you are willing to claim an NPC to start with and then morph it into something you want (none of them have much of a defined culture at the moment). I am resistant to starting brand-new player factions now, unless you have a really awesome idea. In any case Cradle #1 is too full for now!
On the map, faction names written like ~this~ are the NPC's.
You cannot buy or otherwise request inventions (no Horse Riding yet). But I am cool with Inventions being passed on or somehow traded for, once they are actually discovered by someone. Note that diplomatic links between non-neighbours are generally very poor at this point, especially if one or other faction lacks WRITING.
I was able to ask Andis-1 what kind of wonder he wanted because I decided/rolled that would happen quite early on.
The thing about 'overtaxing' cities is that you only get the extra income at the end of the turn, so you will have to order this in advance (I will clarify that section in the rules - BUILDABLE THINGS: Cities). @Matt0088 I had your faction 'overspend' up to its limit (-2, as you have economics 2) and that turned out OK.
@Abaddon, you don't have to worry about your units pillaging things against your will, unless there is a real breakdown in order, or not enough 'e' to support them normally.
Years 900 to 1500
CRADLE ONE:
Spoiler MAP :
Records tell of a time when summers are short and winters are long. More of the north gives way to tundra, where only a few tribes can survive. A chain of migrations is set in motion. These migrations collide with a world already undergoing wars, plagues and famines.
On the western edge of the 'Middle Sea', the kingdom of the Rhu (Rhuhia) is forged after a bloody series of wars between rivals and with other tribes, some of them migrants from the north. Around this time there is a sudden appearance of ornate bronze burial goods. All evidence points to some relatively-swift social changes. Bronze axes begin to clear the forest for farming, while the mining of tin and silver also brings these people in touch with the trading ships of the east. Meanwhile to the west lie the islands of Alach, surrounded by the stormy 'true' sea, home to the mysterious mystics of the giant standing-stones, who seem to have great influence with the tribes on the mainlands.
Luca becomes home to the Ethaliri, a people said to originate from the shores Rhua, sharing much in common with the Rhuhia. The Ethaliri carve out a new home for themselves, their warriors becoming well known for their ferociousness and their fondness of mighty war-hammers.
After centuries of strife, the Ongens are blessed with famous Sea-Kings who are able to focus efforts on the systematic conquest of all the islands of Etua. Their final victory is commemorated with the building of a fine palace, and under their rule the islands become a centre of trade. Now the great fleet of the Ongens grows restless; there is temptation to return to the old wars of raiding and piracy, though it seems this is resisted by the new order of merchants and traders.
A new dynasty of Calengian rulers turn their attentions to the sea, becoming briefly involved in the island wars of Cria, but are rewarded by massive floods and storms at home, evidence that the gods are displeased. Invasion by barbarian tribes follow, and the ancient city of Calenge faces repeated raids and sieges. It seems the wild forests of the north refuse to be tamed so easily.
The endless wars in the islands of Cria, if not exactly resolved, come to a temporary halt as the Novai get their revenge against the towns of the Napodi. With the help of a mercenary Kaerlan warband, the Novai finally achieve some crushing victories and emerge as strongest faction on the islands, though the foreign tribes and die-hard remnants of the Napodi remain something of a threat. The Calengians establish a port-settlement, though the Novai are not eager to cooperate, especially as the Calengians are accused of aiding their enemies at times. The legendary glories of the past still seem out of reach, and Etua remains the main centre of trade in the region.
After generations of hardship, and the decline of the old Napodian cults, the people look to the Idovai for inspiration; The cult of the Idovai gods is one that seeks to celebrate life and its pleasures. Though dismissed as nothing more than wine-sodden orgies by some writers, the truth is not so simple. It seems that Idovai priestesses are well educated and held in high regard by the islanders of this time, both in Cria and Etua as their influence spreads to the palace of the Ongens.
Throughout this era the Rattram descend from their mountain strongholds to raid and pillage the lands of Qan'ma, the inhabitants referred to, perhaps dismissively, as the 'cow people'. The fighting also spilling over into the lands of Chari at times. The people of the Iksander Antar'ah suffer great hardship. The earth tells its own story - Iksander settlements and places of worship falling out of use, covered over with layers of ash, topped with carved stones inscribed with Rattram script, recording and boasting of the exploits of great Rattram warriors for all eternity. The burial mounds of Geskh are suddenly filled with Iksander treasures - many artefacts originally traded from across the 'Middle Sea' and beyond. The figure of 'Grandfather White Beard' passes into myth and legend.
Yet the Iksander civilization is not extinguished; their people turn to their faith for inspiration, become adept with the horse-drawn chariot, and gain a greater foothold in the lands of Chari, as the natives join forces against the Rattram raids. It seems much of the population is often rallied for a mobile defence, returning to old nomadic ways for a time, harassing the Rattram invaders in turn. There is no evidence of mass enslavement. Yet the old power structure is weakened. A new breed of zealot-warriors arises in Qan'ma, but they are not of Iskander stock; the Salkadji are descendents of other tribes who have adopted and mutated the Iksander faith, though they swear allegiance to the Iskander rulers and to the defence of Qan'ma.
A golden age comes to the lands of Hurud. The Hurians bestow their cities with aqueducts and sewers, keeping disease at bay. Harvests are abundant and trade goods flow in ever greater quantity. The pride of the people is manifest in a great wonder, the Temple of Eredos. Its ornate colonnade is built to correspond to the Golden Ratio and is made of finest Makar marble. It is said to be the most beautiful building in the world, and inside resides another marvel, the great golden statue of Eredos, the god of the Sun.
For the neighbouring Sarakites, this is an age of legendary voyages along the 'Eastern Sea', and the treacherous waters beyond. Attempts to circumnavigate the coast of the great continent end in failure, as legends tell of mountainous coastlines in both east and west, lined with razor-sharp rocks, beset by strong currents and prone to sudden storms. In later years the 'Golden Ships' of the Sarakites content themselves with voyages to the southern lands of Mlano and Sulundi, often with Shahanar merchants onboard.
The basics of iron working are mastered by the Sarakites, with more than a little help from the desert peoples of Boro, and the techniques soon spread to the Hurian cities. But it does not immediately replace bronze as metal of choice, and with the rest of the known world still trading copper and tin, there is not a great abundance of quality iron ores.
In the misty mountains of Mriz, the cultures of the Kaerlan and Vetharil enter a more mature phase. Aside from some minor wars and intrigues between the two peoples, things seem relatively peaceful overall. Under the rule of the legendary Rundri Galaen Keldara, the impregnable fort of Kurdaegh is founded. The influence of Kaerlan mysticism spreads into Jrika, and Novai writings record the adventures of a band of Kaerlan warriors who travelled the islands of Cria for a time, doing battle against the Napodi and earning rich rewards. Meanwhile the Vetharil become great masters of bronze working, producing the finest of ornate swords and armour that are famed across the known world. The Kaerlan and the legions of Vethmenari are a deterrent to the roaming tribes, and inadvertently do much to shelter the lands of Hurud and Makar in the south.
The Shahanar and Tharnites suffer a devastating earthquake in their mountain homeland, destroying the great Tharnite temple and large parts of the old city of Arana, blocking passes with landslides and collapsing some of the old gem mines. And despite measures to keep disease out of their lands, the pestilence is eventually spread to Shahan by tribes invading from the north-west. The Tharnites see these events as divine warnings against adopting the ways of the Shahanar. But despite disorder and hardship lasting for generations, the defences of Arana hold out, and recovery begins. Shahanar merchants manage to bring back riches from new trade routes expanding elsewhere. However Shahan does begin to dwindle as a trade centre, due to competition from the ships and cities of Hurud and from the new desert traders, not to mention the general violence disorder in north-eastern lands...
All across the middle-north, from the lands of Jrika to Markhan, there are a chaotic series of invasions and migrations. The old powers of the En Corthan, Nartozieroni and the Tephites all survive, but in various states of weakness. Waves of disease spread across the land, carried by migrants and exiles.
Marcion, the legendary King of Knowledge in En Corthan, rules over a brief period where all of Zamar is united, the arts of bronze working and writing are adopted, and an expedition to aid the Haskites of Lothas in their war against the Nartozieroni is briefly considered. But Marcion dies all to soon, leaving his successors to face new wars with newcomers from the north, and the coming of the great plagues, all of which takes its toll on the people.
Blaming the Haskites for the great plague that has already ravaged the lands of Lothas, Shahahshah Kymlickos rallies the Nartozieroni for war. They adopt the ways of the chariot and, after some painful lessons, eventually triumph over their foes and enslave their people. The last remnants of Haskite nobility seek refuge in the southern desert. But barbarian tribes become more involved towards the end of the war, and continue to arrive in greater numbers afterwards. Old alliances break down and the Nartozieroni find themselves fighting new enemies. The dynasty of Kymlickos comes to an inglorious end, some Nartozieroni cities now under barbarian rule.
Among the Halkska are a few tribes who stay and adapt to the worsening climate in the north. The rest of their people find themselves widely scattered. Records hint at involvement in the wars of Zamar and Lothas, but by the end of this age large numbers of Halkska nomads have established themselves peacefully in the eastern lands of Khoda and Arkhad, bordering the great eastern sea at the edge of the world.
The first Tephite 'empire' comes to a halt with the rebellion of the Sa'ad Danåb. While a initial uprising of zealots fails to free the rest of the slaves and proves little more than an irritation, the last of the Tephite emperors heads out from the great palace of Karu to go on campaign in the eastern lands of Markhan. That campaign proves successful, but back in Karu the lost tribe of the Sa'ad Danåb finally returns from across the great desert. Although the peoples of Hloga refused to follow, the wanderers are able to join up with the zealots, retake the settlements of the oasis and finally oust the Tephite garrison from the great palace. The people are free, and in their thanks they embrace the cult of Tvåtinojanggut, the Two Bearded Women.
A shrine in the deserts of Chard marks the place where the exhausted lost tribe received the inspiration to carry on towards Karu, finding sacred diamonds in the wall of the cave. Soon new trade routes work their way across the desert. The people of Nakkra Ardi are the first to breed herds of domesticated camels, while the Queendom of Ka Molo arises in the paradise lands of Hloga. Great Queen Ri, said to have been fathered by one of the Sa'ad Danåb wanderers, unites many of the local tribes and rules over a growing centre of trade, stocked with exotic spices, fruits, sugar, animal pelts and precious stones from the jungles beyond.
CRADLE TWO:
Spoiler MAP :
This is the age of great wars between the Xitaan and Zharu, involving all the peoples of the world, as it is known to Zharu writers of the time. The bloodiest battles are fought during the very first war, as 'God-Emperor-General Yuchigo' leads his personal creation, the newly-unified army of Xitaan, on a campaign of conquest into the lands of Zhunun, the first step in a plan to conquer all the way to the great waters at the western edge of the world. Yuchigo has judged the eastern lands to be too barbaric to be worth tackling for now, though he takes care to recruit talented charioteers from the lands of Yalu.
The soldiers of the Zharu and their tribal allies prove to be a tough obstacle. Although generally inexperienced with warfare, the Zharu have the benefit of iron and steel blades, and consistently show discipline in battle. The Xitaan are frustrated for many years. After enlisting the aid of nomadic Vakar warriors, the Zharu army is eventually beaten down, but the Xitaan lose thousands more men in sieges, including Yuchigo himself. None of his successors share his grand ambitions, and over the following centuries they struggle as much to control their own soldiers as to complete the final elusive victory over the Zharu.
While the Vakar warriors remain in service of the Xitaan kings, their old cousins in the east find themselves under the rule of the new Houlau, borrowing much from earlier Vakar kingdom, though hardly as aggressive; peace is maintained with the Vauri people of the coastal lands.
Tarezisis culture spreads further east, and prospers from the opening of new silver mines. The Tarezisis mingle with their cousins the Haiu, who famously develop the art of cultivating silk at this time.
In the deserts of Tarakan, a kingdom seems to magically sprout up from a fortified trade post; the traders of the Tarak make use of elephants and tough breeds of alpaca-like animals to cross between oases, trading everything from spice and cotton to silver, diamonds and silk, and potions derived from rare desert plants.
The climate cools slightly, and larger areas of the far south freeze over, but there is not the same mass migrations as seen elsewhere in the world. The lands of the Aquen seem blessed by divine forces, remaining slightly milder and more fertile. Whether or not the legendary Oltac every truly existed, the Yenleta Sav of this age prove able to maintain relative peace and order. Their wisdom is respected by non-Aquen, who begin send gifts and tribute in exchange for having disputes settled. Aquen culture becomes anchored on the small city of Weaqaunsui, nothing more than a small town compared to other cities of the time, yet it grows in importance as a religious site. Aquen nomads eventually venture far to the east, settling in the lands of Huar and Sailan, though Weaqaunsui remains a place of pilgrimage for them.
CRADLE THREE:
Spoiler MAP :
A new dynasty of Hulukap leaders comes to power, ruling over a time of relative peace and prosperity, but attitudes to remnants of the old Hubrian order remain hostile. Even in the northern lands of Lani, the Neo-Hubrian cultists find themselves pursued with a vengeance, their monuments destroyed once again. The surviving cultists flee into the deserts of Chiru, continuing their dazzling rituals of blood sacrifice amongst the natives there. The Chwinqua peoples are unsettled by the Hulukap intrusions.
In the jungles of Zakat, the new power of Holuc emerges, based on agriculture, trade and especially warfare. Although their numbers are small, the warriors of Zakat are known for their skills and ferociousness in battle, and their neighbours are wary of them uniting under one ruler.
Harao seafarers gradually extend their network of trade contacts along the coasts of the mainland, and further south across the unpredictable seas.
Inshore from the great lagoon-harbour of the Harao, deep in the jungles of the largest of the Sollo islands, lies the great wonder of the Agrians. A massive walled enclosure keeps out the jungle. Within are a series of smaller enclosures, surrounded by ornately-carved stone spires, many of them decorated with gold and precious stones, and all brightly painted. At the heart of the complex is a shallow stepped pyramid, topped by a pool of water, with a great wooden tower built over and above. It is here that the Agrian mystics come to meditate on the nature of existence. Though many of their ideas are beyond the grasp of the common people, the culture of the Agrians takes another turn, gaining a greater influence over the Harao after what has already been many centuries of coexistence.
NPC DIPLO:
From the Idovai
To the Novai
We offer [0.5e per turn] in exchange for your protection and support, and for our acolytes to travel on your ships.
From the Haskite remnants (chariot in Karu)
To Sa'ad Danåb, the Shahanar
We offer our considerable military expertise for [0.5e per turn, no obligation to continue subscription!]
From the Tharnites
To the Shahanar
The omens say that we must not forsake our own traditions. However we do not forget the kindness you have shown. We will send you a tribute of [0.5e per turn], and once we have rebuilt our great temple we will plead with the gods to share their mercy upon your people.
From the God-Emperor-General of the Xitaan
To the Aquen
We propose a sworn treaty of everlasting peace between our peoples
NOTES:
This may look totally effortless, but that's only because I'm a genius
hmm. Its actually pretty intense work, lots of work, on a par with DaftNES2. I am quite concerned about this, especially considering its only turn 2. Any idea of this being a fast-paced NES goes out the window now. Be warned, its going to be weekly updates at the very best. If that's too slow for your tastes, I fully understand.Anyway, if anyone reading this is actually considering joining, there is plenty of room in Cradles #2 and #3, IF you are willing to claim an NPC to start with and then morph it into something you want (none of them have much of a defined culture at the moment). I am resistant to starting brand-new player factions now, unless you have a really awesome idea. In any case Cradle #1 is too full for now!
On the map, faction names written like ~this~ are the NPC's.
You cannot buy or otherwise request inventions (no Horse Riding yet). But I am cool with Inventions being passed on or somehow traded for, once they are actually discovered by someone. Note that diplomatic links between non-neighbours are generally very poor at this point, especially if one or other faction lacks WRITING.
I was able to ask Andis-1 what kind of wonder he wanted because I decided/rolled that would happen quite early on.
The thing about 'overtaxing' cities is that you only get the extra income at the end of the turn, so you will have to order this in advance (I will clarify that section in the rules - BUILDABLE THINGS: Cities). @Matt0088 I had your faction 'overspend' up to its limit (-2, as you have economics 2) and that turned out OK.
@Abaddon, you don't have to worry about your units pillaging things against your will, unless there is a real breakdown in order, or not enough 'e' to support them normally.
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
STATS (Revised)
Cradle One (this is kinda listed in order of location, going west-east, if anyone wants it rearranged let me know!)
Cradle One (this is kinda listed in order of location, going west-east, if anyone wants it rearranged let me know!)
Spoiler :
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
STATS
Cradle Two
Cradle Three
Cradle Two
Spoiler :
Cradle Three
Spoiler :
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
Alright hope thats sufficient for now
The problem is there's dozens/hundreds of sheets of sprites in that style, most for very specific scenarios. I've saved alot to my HD but I need to know what I'm looking for! Some generalised graphics are on the Apolyton Scenario League Wiki
@spryllino that was a big oversight by me. I have changed it to fit your actual orders now, though the situation still isn't too great I'm afraid, with all the fighting and everything.
A bit of a problem with the game, workers really need to be destroyed totally, or looted/disrupted for a turn, or captured and left in place. They can't really be captured and used as slaves.
@Lord of Elves what maps do you mean exactly? As for the doom-bear, please see the section under GIANT KILLER ANIMALS on the front page Nice story!
@Thlayli these were natural events and outcomes IMO
The problem is there's dozens/hundreds of sheets of sprites in that style, most for very specific scenarios. I've saved alot to my HD but I need to know what I'm looking for! Some generalised graphics are on the Apolyton Scenario League Wiki
@spryllino that was a big oversight by me. I have changed it to fit your actual orders now, though the situation still isn't too great I'm afraid, with all the fighting and everything.
A bit of a problem with the game, workers really need to be destroyed totally, or looted/disrupted for a turn, or captured and left in place. They can't really be captured and used as slaves.
@Lord of Elves what maps do you mean exactly? As for the doom-bear, please see the section under GIANT KILLER ANIMALS on the front page
Nice story!@Thlayli these were natural events and outcomes IMO
Thlayli
Le Pétit Prince
Yes, I'm glad that I came out of it without being destroyed. Great update! And no problem with the increased workload, we're willing to be patient.
From: Shahanar
To: Tharnites
We thank you for your kind support. If you would be willing to give us 1e this turn to aid in the rebuilding process, in the future we will be happy to spread more temples to the Circle of Tharn along our trade routes.
From: Shahanar
To: Tharnites
We thank you for your kind support. If you would be willing to give us 1e this turn to aid in the rebuilding process, in the future we will be happy to spread more temples to the Circle of Tharn along our trade routes.
orangelex44
Partisan
Ongen: orangelex44
Turn0: emerges into the light of history
Turn1: Build a Fort, and a ship. Ships raid coasts of Cria and Chari. Home unit attempts to force barbarians out of Etua. EVENT: Military UP, Culture UP, Civilization UP. Learn THE WHEEL.
Turn2: Power UP. Build another ship (pirates). Learn BRONZE WORKING. Learn WRITING. GREAT EVENT: age of the great Sea Kings. Palace GET! Trade Centre GET! 'Hero Galley' GET! Engineering UP!
Available Funds: 3e
Unspent from last turn: 0e
Income: 1.5e tax, 2e resource, 1.5e trade
Upkeep: 2e (4 units, palace upkeep deferred for a turn)
Civilization Level: 2
Culture: 2 (1 Novai)
Enlightenment: 1
Power: 2
Military: 2
Organisation: 1
Infrastructure: 2
Economics: 2
Engineering: 3
Inventions: THE WHEEL, BRONZE WORKING, WRITING
Special: 'Hero Galley' (Military / Trade) Current Task: Military
Orders:
Turn0: emerges into the light of history
Turn1: Build a Fort, and a ship. Ships raid coasts of Cria and Chari. Home unit attempts to force barbarians out of Etua. EVENT: Military UP, Culture UP, Civilization UP. Learn THE WHEEL.
Turn2: Power UP. Build another ship (pirates). Learn BRONZE WORKING. Learn WRITING. GREAT EVENT: age of the great Sea Kings. Palace GET! Trade Centre GET! 'Hero Galley' GET! Engineering UP!
Available Funds: 3e
Unspent from last turn: 0e
Income: 1.5e tax, 2e resource, 1.5e trade
Upkeep: 2e (4 units, palace upkeep deferred for a turn)
Civilization Level: 2
Culture: 2 (1 Novai)
Enlightenment: 1
Power: 2
Military: 2
Organisation: 1
Infrastructure: 2
Economics: 2
Engineering: 3
Inventions: THE WHEEL, BRONZE WORKING, WRITING
Special: 'Hero Galley' (Military / Trade) Current Task: Military
Orders:
Spoiler :
Ninja Dude
Sorry, I wasn't listening...
To: The God-Emperor-General of Xitaan. Mighty Ruler of Western Lands
From: The Yenleta Sav of Aquen
Peace is always our primary concern. We are overjoyed with we are overjoyed with your proposition and accept wholeheartedly!
From: The Yenleta Sav of Aquen
Peace is always our primary concern. We are overjoyed with we are overjoyed with your proposition and accept wholeheartedly!
Great update!
To the Idovai
From the Calengians
Can your gods help us to defeat our enemies, or help encourage trade through our port on Cria? If they can, your acolytes can travel on our ships as well as the Novai's.
To the Novai
From the Calengians
Well done on defeating the uncivilised and drunken Napodi! We hope for a fruitful trading relationship for many centuries, and we are willing to assist you, if you would like, by providing help to keep the Napodi in their rightful place if it is necessary.
To the Ongen
From the Calengians
Greetings! As a trading people, we desire to be the greatest of friends with as wondrous and rich a nation as your own. We propose a trade agreement and alliance between us. (OOC: and please don't sink my navy!)
OOC:
@Daftpanzer: Are my city and furs disrupted or not? Do I get income from them anyway? The stats would suggest that I do.
To the Idovai
From the Calengians
Can your gods help us to defeat our enemies, or help encourage trade through our port on Cria? If they can, your acolytes can travel on our ships as well as the Novai's.
To the Novai
From the Calengians
Well done on defeating the uncivilised and drunken Napodi! We hope for a fruitful trading relationship for many centuries, and we are willing to assist you, if you would like, by providing help to keep the Napodi in their rightful place if it is necessary.
To the Ongen
From the Calengians
Greetings! As a trading people, we desire to be the greatest of friends with as wondrous and rich a nation as your own. We propose a trade agreement and alliance between us. (OOC: and please don't sink my navy!)
OOC:
@Daftpanzer: Are my city and furs disrupted or not? Do I get income from them anyway? The stats would suggest that I do.
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
EDIT: @spryllino because of the port you got fishy wishies in the middle of those Cria islands. The city only gave half income, and the furs were not profitable at all.
From Tharnites
To Shahanar
This shall cause extra hardship for our poor people as we struggle to rebuild our proud temple, but nonetheless, we shall give you the 1e as you request.
From The God-Emperor-General of Xitaan
To The Yenleta Sav of Aquen
It pleases Him greatly.
From Tharnites
To Shahanar
This shall cause extra hardship for our poor people as we struggle to rebuild our proud temple, but nonetheless, we shall give you the 1e as you request.
From The God-Emperor-General of Xitaan
To The Yenleta Sav of Aquen
It pleases Him greatly.
Lord of Elves
Suede-Denim Secret Police
- Joined
- Oct 31, 2009
- Messages
- 6,976
Woot, I was looking forward to this update. My only question is, I believe I specified in my orders for a swordsman to be built? Insignificant stuff, really, just wondering. Thanks, I try on the stories.
The sound of hammer upon metal could be heard in the dark halls, lit only by the light of the forges, which were toiled over for countless hours. On large tables lay ornate helms, decorated with runes and polished to a gleaming shine. On each helm rose a crescent-like protrusion, adorned only in the runes that were emblazoned onto its surface. This crescent was divided by a hole in its structure, and both ends met at a point.
Breastplates also lay upon this table, as were heraldry cloths and swords. Swords of every size and shape were laid out to dry after their forging, along with the elaborate armor crafted to be worn by the wielders of the swords. Long wooden shafts, with sharpened metal blades attached to either end lay along-side the swords, the Vetharil Pike, chief implement of the Legions of Vethmenari.
Muscular, but pale men worked the forges, toiling over their craft. Long hours they had spent in the shining darkness of the forges, creating the implements of war that their nation wielded. The King-Forge was the chief example of Vetharili craftsmanship, and the source of some of the greatest and most sophisticated suits of armor in all of Vetharoualk.
The sound of hammer upon metal could be heard in the dark halls, lit only by the light of the forges, which were toiled over for countless hours. On large tables lay ornate helms, decorated with runes and polished to a gleaming shine. On each helm rose a crescent-like protrusion, adorned only in the runes that were emblazoned onto its surface. This crescent was divided by a hole in its structure, and both ends met at a point.
Breastplates also lay upon this table, as were heraldry cloths and swords. Swords of every size and shape were laid out to dry after their forging, along with the elaborate armor crafted to be worn by the wielders of the swords. Long wooden shafts, with sharpened metal blades attached to either end lay along-side the swords, the Vetharil Pike, chief implement of the Legions of Vethmenari.
Muscular, but pale men worked the forges, toiling over their craft. Long hours they had spent in the shining darkness of the forges, creating the implements of war that their nation wielded. The King-Forge was the chief example of Vetharili craftsmanship, and the source of some of the greatest and most sophisticated suits of armor in all of Vetharoualk.
alex994
Hail Divine Emperor!
OOC: Why are the Haskites still listed in Lothas? And is that their monument on the left side end?
Thanks!
Thanks!
Lord of Elves
Suede-Denim Secret Police
- Joined
- Oct 31, 2009
- Messages
- 6,976
I was wondering, would it be possible for the Vethmenari to at some point domesticate these giant bears? I have a vision of my gold-armored Vetharil legionaries riding atop menacing, ten-feet tall bears, armored like the cavalry-men mounted upon them. These cavalry-men would also carry large pikes/spears.
Or not. Whether this dream shall be realized is at your discretion, O Mod!
Or not. Whether this dream shall be realized is at your discretion, O Mod!
alex994
Hail Divine Emperor!
To: Shahanar
From: Nartozieroni
Hail! Long have the Haskites intercepted your messengers. We propose that trade be allowed between our cities.
From: Nartozieroni
Hail! Long have the Haskites intercepted your messengers. We propose that trade be allowed between our cities.
Thlayli
Le Pétit Prince
From: Patriarchs of the Shahanar
To: Nartozieroni
We are very strongly in favor of increased trade with the noble peoples of the north. Additionally, we have hired the Haskites to serve us, so they should no longer be a concern for your lands.
From: Patriarchs of the Shahanar
To: Tharnites
We will put your contributions to good use in driving the barbarians out of Shahan, and rest assured, any Tharnites suffering hardship can take refuge in our lands. We must bring prosperity back to Shahan, or we shall surely all suffer further. As such, we designate you co-owners of the Great Port which we plan on building with your assistance.
From: Patriarchs of the Shahanar
To: Haskite Remnants
We offer you the .5e you request to drive the northern barbarians out of our lands! Additionally, we see that you are without a home, and we Shahanar are not a warlike people. If you succeed in driving out the barbarians, we are willing to grant you a home in Shahan if you will serve as our Warrior Caste.
ORDERS:
[3.5e from income, 1e from debt, 1e from Tharnites]
1e to contribute to GRAND THARNITE TEMPLE (consider it a surprise birthday present for the Tharnites)
.5e to hire Haskite mercenaries (attempt to absorb culturally)
2e to build a Port in Shahan (useful for trading caravans)
2e to build a Nomad (mobile trading caravans!) in Hurud
Guild Archers: Engage enemy barbarian invaders!
Trader Unit: Move to Boro, attempt to secure Iron trade through Shahan.
To: Nartozieroni
We are very strongly in favor of increased trade with the noble peoples of the north. Additionally, we have hired the Haskites to serve us, so they should no longer be a concern for your lands.
From: Patriarchs of the Shahanar
To: Tharnites
We will put your contributions to good use in driving the barbarians out of Shahan, and rest assured, any Tharnites suffering hardship can take refuge in our lands. We must bring prosperity back to Shahan, or we shall surely all suffer further. As such, we designate you co-owners of the Great Port which we plan on building with your assistance.
From: Patriarchs of the Shahanar
To: Haskite Remnants
We offer you the .5e you request to drive the northern barbarians out of our lands! Additionally, we see that you are without a home, and we Shahanar are not a warlike people. If you succeed in driving out the barbarians, we are willing to grant you a home in Shahan if you will serve as our Warrior Caste.
ORDERS:
[3.5e from income, 1e from debt, 1e from Tharnites]
1e to contribute to GRAND THARNITE TEMPLE (consider it a surprise birthday present for the Tharnites)
.5e to hire Haskite mercenaries (attempt to absorb culturally)
2e to build a Port in Shahan (useful for trading caravans)
2e to build a Nomad (mobile trading caravans!) in Hurud
Guild Archers: Engage enemy barbarian invaders!
Trader Unit: Move to Boro, attempt to secure Iron trade through Shahan.
Dreadnought
Deity
To the Idovai
From the Novai
This is acceptable.
Lord of Elves
Suede-Denim Secret Police
- Joined
- Oct 31, 2009
- Messages
- 6,976
Vetharil Orders
Spend 2e to build the Fortress of the Skies in northern Vethmenari, to spread our economic and military influence.
Spend 2e to build the Fortress of the Skies in northern Vethmenari, to spread our economic and military influence.
Abaddon
Deity
Yo daft.. it says im getting 0.5e from trade.. whats this?
Daftpanzer
canonically ambiguous
@alex some Haskite peoples are enslaved there, thats the icon that is multi-coloured. I know you didn't want slaves exactly, but you did want to destroy their city, so under the rules you either have to kill the slaves, or set them free again and hope they convert to a city/nomad of your culture
. The triangle is a monument/temple of the En Corthan culture that appeared there in all the turmoil. Since you have a higher culture rating it doesn't affect you very much...That would be awesome!
Some could be tamed I guess, but not enough to make a meaningful unit out of... Unfortunately that's not the kind of critter you can domesticate, not unless this becomes more of a fantasy NES 
I'm afraid fractions other than 0.5 (and multiples of) are ILLEGAL, because I want simple sums. Also, I can only allow you to buy whole buildings (for 2e a time) or whole units (1e a time).
Also about your swordsman, your military tech increase cost 2e so I thought you'd rather have that last turn. You can go into debt but it brings a risk of revolution and etc, especially since your economics tech is still at 1 (but very likely to increase from all this armaments trading).
@Abaddon that's an arbitrary additional bonus from imaginary trade routes (between cities/nomads/ports and resources) passing through your stuff on the map.
DIPLO:
[B said:
To the Calengians
From the Idovai
Our gods unleash the power and joy that is within. How you use this power, all are free to choose, although some choices lead to even more joy and more power. As for you offer, we thank you, but we will not do anything to offend the Novai. We cannot accept unless they approve...
To: Patriarchs of the Shahanar
From: Haskite Remnants
We accept gratefully. Let it be known that we now serve the Patriarchs of the Shahanar.
Similar threads
