Golden1Knight
Emperor
When I get enough information, I will edit this post with a story about Jipha.Symphorien, you made a cool story, taking the opportunity to describe the culture and religion at the same time. 
End of Empires - N3S III
- Thread starter North King
- Start date
North King
blech
- Joined
- Jan 2, 2004
- Messages
- 18,165
I'm about 70% done on stats, but I'm going to get some sleep and finish them tomorrow. I think I'll push back the update to the weekend after next instead of next weekend, to give you guys some more time.
North King
blech
- Joined
- Jan 2, 2004
- Messages
- 18,165
Alright, stats updated, and the new due date is in the first post. Symphorien/Golden1Knight/any others, what sort of information do you still want?
Symphorien
Chieftain
Thanks North King
I was just looking over the rules for the sending of orders, and I can't quite figure out upkeep for the military. Do I have to spend that from my income each turn or is it deducted automatically and I can use the whole income for other things?
Otherwise I think I'll send you a PM for more specific details about my little peninsula.
I was just looking over the rules for the sending of orders, and I can't quite figure out upkeep for the military. Do I have to spend that from my income each turn or is it deducted automatically and I can use the whole income for other things?
Otherwise I think I'll send you a PM for more specific details about my little peninsula.
Golden1Knight
Emperor
I thing I sent to you a message like that:
Before I start NESing, I want to ask some things if you don't mind:
Jipha is on a jungle area? In case of positive answer,
would be possible that this region has some sort of unique species of tree, tough and gorgeous, with high commercial value?
Another detail, how much money will I have stored in the bank when I start?
If it is not asking too much, I would like to know more about the history and culture of Jipha. Another thing, what is the name of the capital? And I am free to create or add details on culture, art and the like?
One last thing, our warriors or ships have some especial or native characteristics or skills?
Thank you for you time."
Anyway, I am posting here.
Before I start NESing, I want to ask some things if you don't mind:
Jipha is on a jungle area? In case of positive answer,
would be possible that this region has some sort of unique species of tree, tough and gorgeous, with high commercial value?
Another detail, how much money will I have stored in the bank when I start?
If it is not asking too much, I would like to know more about the history and culture of Jipha. Another thing, what is the name of the capital? And I am free to create or add details on culture, art and the like?
One last thing, our warriors or ships have some especial or native characteristics or skills?
Thank you for you time."
Anyway, I am posting here.
Thlayli
Le Pétit Prince
I thing I sent to you a message like that:
Before I start NESing, I want to ask some things if you don't mind:
Jipha is on a jungle area? In case of positive answer,
would be possible that this region has some sort of unique species of tree, tough and gorgeous, with high commercial value?
Another detail, how much money will I have stored in the bank when I start?
If it is not asking too much, I would like to know more about the history and culture of Jipha. Another thing, what is the name of the capital? And I am free to create or add details on culture, art and the like?
One last thing, our warriors or ships have some especial or native characteristics or skills?
Thank you for you time."
Anyway, I am posting here.
Do a search for Starlife's posts. He was the last player to play Jipha, and his stories did a fantastic job of painting the aesthetic of that country.
Thlayli
Le Pétit Prince
Historical Article: Lost Tribes and the Second Wave of Ardavani Conversion in the 5th Century RM
“But the eighth son, Ashklevai, disdained his brothers, and he did not ride with the Seven by night, nor hunt with them by day. His eyes were keen and his arm was strong, but he fell to worshipping spirits, so the brothers drove him out with fire and spear. They cursed him as he fled, but TALELDIL rebuked them, saying, ‘Nothing under heaven can break the bonds of blood.’ And from Ashklevai were many tribes descended.”
Kaphai, Deeds: 17-20
---
The changing nature of what it meant to be Satar in the 5th century RM was tightly bound up with the religion of Ardavan. The name of the religion itself has been translated as diversely as "the aspected path" or "the uppermost way," revealing a wide breadth of interpretation for the contemporary scholar. That Ardavani practices themselves retained a remarkable diversity throughout the first millenium RM should be unsurprising in light of this mutable vocabulary. This article will briefly summarize the origins of Ardavan, and then discuss how massive operational changes within the structure of the religion allowed what was previously a Satar-only faith to become accessible to a wide range of non-Satar ethnic groups during the rise of the Karapeshai Exatai.
Historical Synopsis
Ardavan's origins are clear, even if its subsequent development remains murky. The historicity of Taleldil as a political figure in the Sesh Valley around whom a contemporary god-cult developed is solid but not incontrovertible, supported by a number of buried steles and bronze inscriptions appearing in the Rath Tephas around a century after his hypothesized earthly life. What the inscriptions are not, however, is consistent, as some mention deeds of empire-building and conquest which can be corroborated with archaeology in the Sesh Delta, while others seem to focus on mythopoeic legendary achievements, such as the killing of spirits and gods.
Subsequently, during the Northern Migration period, elements of this Bronze Age cult filtered north via trade and migration to the Rathai, the great steppes that extend for thousands of miles northwest of the Kotthorn, or Kothai Mountains. It came into contact there with the polytheistic shamanism native to the steppe, which reinforced the henotheistic conception of Taleldil as one god among many. A number of shamanic practices entered into the faith at this time, which by the time of the 1st century RM was essentially a shamanic faith centered around a single god and the bound spirits that served him. Ritualistic invocations of power, divining, visionary experiences, and spiritual initiation were the most enduring of these shamanic practices.
The conquest of the Sesh Valley changed Ardavan greatly. The oral tradition of Taleldil’s life, deeds, and afterlife was codified by the first High Oracle, Xephaion, who personally assembled the bulk of the Kaphaiavai. Following the reigns of Arastephas and Atraxes, a growing conception that the Redeemer of the Satar had some form of spiritual connection to Taleldil emerged, though the exact nature of that connection was debated for centuries by scholars before the term ‘Scion’ was adopted as a compromise measure in the late 4th century RM. Furthermore, the influence of the High Oracle resulted in the formation of the monasteries and the oracular temples, and the reform of certain shamanic practices and discouragement of others as the shamans were transitioned into their new role as Oracles.
Sons of Ashklevai: Religious Compromise in the Second and Third Exatai
With the fall of Xetares and the end of the First Exatai, and the wholesale conversion of the Accan people who helped form the Second, new religious rationalizations had to be made to accommodate the non-Satar that were now joining the Exatai in large numbers. The rationale, first developed for the Accans and later reused in a much broader form after the Conquests of Jahan, was as follows: The Accans were descended from a lost tribe, sundered from the Satar at a very early date in their history. The “many tribes” reference in the Book of Deeds in the Kaphai served to provide justification for the massive political power of the Accans within the new Exatai: They were, in fact, Satar all along, simply Satar that had forgotten their heritage and now came to reclaim it.
The term “son of Ashklevai” or “Ashklevite” entered the historical record during the early-period Karapeshai reign of Avetas, in reference to a half-Ming Evyni quem who had quickly converted to Ardavan on the heels of Jahan’s Conquest in an attempt to gain favor. According to the writings of Axilias-ta-Alma, the surprised convert was richly feasted by his new Satar overlords, given a silver-edged mask in a special ceremony, and awarded a significant bounty of land and twenty slaves. Subsequently, ‘Ashklevite’ was interpreted very broadly to mean any convert to Ardavan, or descendant of converts. It would be used to describe members of ethnic groups as varied as Accans, Xieni, Vithana, Avaimi, Ming, Cyvekt, and Taudo. All were descendants of the sundered Eighth Tribe, and thus, all equally capable of re-embracing their “true” Satar identity.
During the reigns of Avetas, Tephras, and Karal, the practice of non-Satar conversion seems to have become increasingly popular. It represented a compromise, by which many of the old cultural traditions of the specific ‘tribe’ of the new entrant into the Exatai (like language and dress) could be preserved, simply adding the Satar traditions (Taleldil, mask culture) on top of their own. This aura of compromise even extended to the religions of Maninism and Ytauzi, as these ‘paths’ were interpreted by the Satar as being cultural oddities, not rival religions worthy of persecution, and not representing any conflict with Taleldil. Syncretism was a natural result.
Given the still-significant but diminishing influence of the Old Satar, being Vedai (pure or sevenfold, descended from a Satar tribe tracing its lineage back to one of Taleldil’s seven loyal sons) carried a certain amount of prestige, but it had no bearing on the power structure of the Karapeshai. Many of the new, Ashklevite princely dynasties sought to heavily intermarry with Vedai families, thus gradually becoming Vedai themselves, but it was by no means stigmatic to be an Ashklevite in the social hierarchy of the Karapeshai Exatai.
Summary and Conclusions
Certainly, this period of tolerance had its exceptions, (most notably an ongoing and vicious persecution of Aitahists,) and an era of greater reaction would be on its way. But for its time, it represented a remarkably forward-thinking policy of ethnic rapprochement, especially in contrast to the stereotypical xenophobic Satar written into contemporary Uggor, Seshweay, and Faronun chronicles, and used as a stock character in fiction. It proved to be far more successful at preventing ethnic unrest than the viciously oppressive actions directed at the Seshweay and other Aitahist minorities during the previous centuries, and was also more successful at gaining new adherents to both Ardavan and Satar mask culture.
Other historians considering minority participation in the Karapeshai Exatai stress the importance of the reformed slave codes under Avetas, and ongoing economic changes that gave non-Satar ethnic groups a greater financial stake in the success of the state. Those considerations, however, are under the scope of a subsequent essay.
“But the eighth son, Ashklevai, disdained his brothers, and he did not ride with the Seven by night, nor hunt with them by day. His eyes were keen and his arm was strong, but he fell to worshipping spirits, so the brothers drove him out with fire and spear. They cursed him as he fled, but TALELDIL rebuked them, saying, ‘Nothing under heaven can break the bonds of blood.’ And from Ashklevai were many tribes descended.”
Kaphai, Deeds: 17-20
---
The changing nature of what it meant to be Satar in the 5th century RM was tightly bound up with the religion of Ardavan. The name of the religion itself has been translated as diversely as "the aspected path" or "the uppermost way," revealing a wide breadth of interpretation for the contemporary scholar. That Ardavani practices themselves retained a remarkable diversity throughout the first millenium RM should be unsurprising in light of this mutable vocabulary. This article will briefly summarize the origins of Ardavan, and then discuss how massive operational changes within the structure of the religion allowed what was previously a Satar-only faith to become accessible to a wide range of non-Satar ethnic groups during the rise of the Karapeshai Exatai.
Historical Synopsis
Ardavan's origins are clear, even if its subsequent development remains murky. The historicity of Taleldil as a political figure in the Sesh Valley around whom a contemporary god-cult developed is solid but not incontrovertible, supported by a number of buried steles and bronze inscriptions appearing in the Rath Tephas around a century after his hypothesized earthly life. What the inscriptions are not, however, is consistent, as some mention deeds of empire-building and conquest which can be corroborated with archaeology in the Sesh Delta, while others seem to focus on mythopoeic legendary achievements, such as the killing of spirits and gods.
Subsequently, during the Northern Migration period, elements of this Bronze Age cult filtered north via trade and migration to the Rathai, the great steppes that extend for thousands of miles northwest of the Kotthorn, or Kothai Mountains. It came into contact there with the polytheistic shamanism native to the steppe, which reinforced the henotheistic conception of Taleldil as one god among many. A number of shamanic practices entered into the faith at this time, which by the time of the 1st century RM was essentially a shamanic faith centered around a single god and the bound spirits that served him. Ritualistic invocations of power, divining, visionary experiences, and spiritual initiation were the most enduring of these shamanic practices.
The conquest of the Sesh Valley changed Ardavan greatly. The oral tradition of Taleldil’s life, deeds, and afterlife was codified by the first High Oracle, Xephaion, who personally assembled the bulk of the Kaphaiavai. Following the reigns of Arastephas and Atraxes, a growing conception that the Redeemer of the Satar had some form of spiritual connection to Taleldil emerged, though the exact nature of that connection was debated for centuries by scholars before the term ‘Scion’ was adopted as a compromise measure in the late 4th century RM. Furthermore, the influence of the High Oracle resulted in the formation of the monasteries and the oracular temples, and the reform of certain shamanic practices and discouragement of others as the shamans were transitioned into their new role as Oracles.
Sons of Ashklevai: Religious Compromise in the Second and Third Exatai
With the fall of Xetares and the end of the First Exatai, and the wholesale conversion of the Accan people who helped form the Second, new religious rationalizations had to be made to accommodate the non-Satar that were now joining the Exatai in large numbers. The rationale, first developed for the Accans and later reused in a much broader form after the Conquests of Jahan, was as follows: The Accans were descended from a lost tribe, sundered from the Satar at a very early date in their history. The “many tribes” reference in the Book of Deeds in the Kaphai served to provide justification for the massive political power of the Accans within the new Exatai: They were, in fact, Satar all along, simply Satar that had forgotten their heritage and now came to reclaim it.
The term “son of Ashklevai” or “Ashklevite” entered the historical record during the early-period Karapeshai reign of Avetas, in reference to a half-Ming Evyni quem who had quickly converted to Ardavan on the heels of Jahan’s Conquest in an attempt to gain favor. According to the writings of Axilias-ta-Alma, the surprised convert was richly feasted by his new Satar overlords, given a silver-edged mask in a special ceremony, and awarded a significant bounty of land and twenty slaves. Subsequently, ‘Ashklevite’ was interpreted very broadly to mean any convert to Ardavan, or descendant of converts. It would be used to describe members of ethnic groups as varied as Accans, Xieni, Vithana, Avaimi, Ming, Cyvekt, and Taudo. All were descendants of the sundered Eighth Tribe, and thus, all equally capable of re-embracing their “true” Satar identity.
During the reigns of Avetas, Tephras, and Karal, the practice of non-Satar conversion seems to have become increasingly popular. It represented a compromise, by which many of the old cultural traditions of the specific ‘tribe’ of the new entrant into the Exatai (like language and dress) could be preserved, simply adding the Satar traditions (Taleldil, mask culture) on top of their own. This aura of compromise even extended to the religions of Maninism and Ytauzi, as these ‘paths’ were interpreted by the Satar as being cultural oddities, not rival religions worthy of persecution, and not representing any conflict with Taleldil. Syncretism was a natural result.
Given the still-significant but diminishing influence of the Old Satar, being Vedai (pure or sevenfold, descended from a Satar tribe tracing its lineage back to one of Taleldil’s seven loyal sons) carried a certain amount of prestige, but it had no bearing on the power structure of the Karapeshai. Many of the new, Ashklevite princely dynasties sought to heavily intermarry with Vedai families, thus gradually becoming Vedai themselves, but it was by no means stigmatic to be an Ashklevite in the social hierarchy of the Karapeshai Exatai.
Summary and Conclusions
Certainly, this period of tolerance had its exceptions, (most notably an ongoing and vicious persecution of Aitahists,) and an era of greater reaction would be on its way. But for its time, it represented a remarkably forward-thinking policy of ethnic rapprochement, especially in contrast to the stereotypical xenophobic Satar written into contemporary Uggor, Seshweay, and Faronun chronicles, and used as a stock character in fiction. It proved to be far more successful at preventing ethnic unrest than the viciously oppressive actions directed at the Seshweay and other Aitahist minorities during the previous centuries, and was also more successful at gaining new adherents to both Ardavan and Satar mask culture.
Other historians considering minority participation in the Karapeshai Exatai stress the importance of the reformed slave codes under Avetas, and ongoing economic changes that gave non-Satar ethnic groups a greater financial stake in the success of the state. Those considerations, however, are under the scope of a subsequent essay.
Golden1Knight
Emperor
Jipha- A New Age
Leuce, a pleasant market town, capital of Jipha, where various goods are negotiated. There are white sand beaches, surrounded by lush forests and varied wildlife. The town, with its white walls, beautiful houses and elaborate temples. A place where man and nature have worked together to create such beauty. But where are the people of Jipha? On the beaches you will hear only the waves, in the jungles only the singing of birds ... The streets empty. The temples, silent. The port for the first time in many years, closed. So where are all? Certainly they were doing something important. And they were.
From his window, Kalimethar, the Supreme King of Jipha, preparing for his speech, as he watched the gathering crowd in the Plaza Real, in front of the castle. This is probably not only the biggest speech of his reign, but the greatest speech in the history of his nation. The pressure was great. The people, just all the people of Jipha, as specified by the heralds, was waiting. From the richest merchants in their togas with their various rings, even the poorest of commoners, in their clothes and tattered rags. Since most young bohemians, even the most pious amiphs. To Kalimethar, it was time to go down in history.
"People of Jipha!" Cried the king. "It is time! Glory awaits us. The sea calls for our sailors. Besides the sea, new land waiting to be discovered! We will be strong, a naval force like no other! But it takes time. Time and dedication ... Thus, we reach the glory, knowledge, power and enlightenment."
"Remember the words of Jitanu! Progress has his ways until the enlightenment. Do not underestimate yourself! Our faith is strong, our will of steel. Hear the words of the king, people of Jipha, a New Age will come. The path is traced, we just need to go."
OOC: I hope that with this speech, which showed a promising future for Jipha, people become happier and more productive. Sure, Kalimethar was not lying ...
Leuce, a pleasant market town, capital of Jipha, where various goods are negotiated. There are white sand beaches, surrounded by lush forests and varied wildlife. The town, with its white walls, beautiful houses and elaborate temples. A place where man and nature have worked together to create such beauty. But where are the people of Jipha? On the beaches you will hear only the waves, in the jungles only the singing of birds ... The streets empty. The temples, silent. The port for the first time in many years, closed. So where are all? Certainly they were doing something important. And they were.
From his window, Kalimethar, the Supreme King of Jipha, preparing for his speech, as he watched the gathering crowd in the Plaza Real, in front of the castle. This is probably not only the biggest speech of his reign, but the greatest speech in the history of his nation. The pressure was great. The people, just all the people of Jipha, as specified by the heralds, was waiting. From the richest merchants in their togas with their various rings, even the poorest of commoners, in their clothes and tattered rags. Since most young bohemians, even the most pious amiphs. To Kalimethar, it was time to go down in history.
"People of Jipha!" Cried the king. "It is time! Glory awaits us. The sea calls for our sailors. Besides the sea, new land waiting to be discovered! We will be strong, a naval force like no other! But it takes time. Time and dedication ... Thus, we reach the glory, knowledge, power and enlightenment."
"Remember the words of Jitanu! Progress has his ways until the enlightenment. Do not underestimate yourself! Our faith is strong, our will of steel. Hear the words of the king, people of Jipha, a New Age will come. The path is traced, we just need to go."
OOC: I hope that with this speech, which showed a promising future for Jipha, people become happier and more productive. Sure, Kalimethar was not lying ...
Symphorien
Chieftain
The Circling Night-Birds
Makala sat on the carpet at the foot of the Night-Bird chair. The powerful figure that sat upon it looked down on his children with anticipation. Nijaro was like that, a showman, he always waited the right moment to throw himself into his performance. A terrifying and efficient mixture of threat and promise. Now, like a cat, he sprung:
My children, may the Night-Bird keep you all under its shadow. I have news for you, a great opportunity presents itself. The ship-family of the Iron-Turtle has long held the monopoly of iron from the west. With it they control the forges and the weapon smiths, and by extension have great influence over the army. However, I have received word through our sources, that a great source lies just to the north in the mountains. However it is in the hands of the Sorgh. If we, with our militia, can quell these nomads, feeble as they are, we will be in a position to end the monopoly, and even exercise a similar influence as the Iron-Turtles. I assume your support, and therefore I have posted a list of those who will be sent on this great venture!
With that he flourished his hands to the enthusiasm of the family. He sat once again, resuming his false stoicism he took when he was no longer performing.
Makala frown. There was no iron to the north, or at least he didn't think so. And the Sorgh may be uncivilized but one family militia wasn't near enough to do anything beside stir up trouble, or be slaughtered. What was Nijaro really up to? He decided to confront him after dinner.
After eating, Makala left for the roof, where Nijaro liked to watch the sunset. The man was stood with he arms crossed behind his back, his silhouette standing out against the setting sun. Makala took a moment himself to look at the moon. A red spot could be seen spreading near the bottom, blood was to come. He shook his head, but whose was to be spilled?
He looked back to the great figure that Nijaro caste. He was certainly a powerful man; big, strong. And clever too. But too heartless, and brash. He was among the first to spit on the ship-mothers of the other families, ruling their quiet oligarchies, but you could never accuse them of rushing into things. If anything quite the inverse. However, as a man, Makala could at most have contented himself with a good job and if his was lucky, a beautiful, if somewhat dominating, wife. That's why he'd left his ship-family and joined the Night-Birds. One of several ghost-families. Without the hereditary dominance of the ship-mothers, one could hope to have a certain importance, if not lead one day, like Nijaro. However life tended to be crueler, and shorter if you didn't learn quick enough. While the ship-families had their trade fleets and lands, the ghost-families tended to work the stalls, the forges, the smithies or join the army. However a small handful, such as the Night-Birds, worked the shadows, gathering and then selling information, or lives. Yes, it wasn't unknown for for a ship-mother to dies suspiciously, especially after a row with another mother from within or without her ship-family.
Makala's reflections were interrupted by Nijaro. Without moving, he spoke: So Makala, what troubles you? His tone was warm, but Makala knew that, if he could see his face, Nijaro would be scowling.
The iron troubles me, he replied especially that fact that it doesn't exist. So I ask myself why you are sending young scions to their death?
Ah, Makala, you always were a smart one. You know, you could have done quite well if you'd stayed at home. Even a ship-mother needs a strong man by her side. But such is the way of things. You now block my way.
He sighed. The death of our boys at the hands of the Sorgh, will allow me to cry scandal before the king. With the recent raids along the border he will be forced to move against them. Land will be annexed, especially with the rumors of iron I've been spreading. And a great many of the Sorgh will be brought under of aegis. First off, the new land may well be distributed among the ghost-families, and therefore us. But most of all, the Sorgh have no ship-family, and they're not likely to marry into one. No, they will have to join the ghost-families. Our numbers will increase, therefore our influence, and eventually, we may be able to overturn the domination of the ship-mothers once and for all.
Makala looked on somewhat stupefied. You've lost your mind. You make far too many assumptions. Who's to say the king won't simply increase the defenses? And even if the Sorgh are conquered, why wouldn't they simply create their own family? Your hatred for the ship-mothers blinds you.
The last edge of the sun dipped below the horizon, and Nijaro turned, in his left hand he brandished his knife. It's not me, it's everyone else. Especially you. And he lunged.
Makala saw the madness in his eyes, and was quicker. He always was. He let the body of Nijaro slump to the ground.
As he walked away he returned to his reflections, only this time he looked forward. He would have to call a meeting to announce the change of leadership. Removing the ship-mothers wasn't the thing to do, they were most useful. No he would have to make other plans.
And it would appear that his patience had paid off. You could never be quite sure with leaded deep-sight.
Makala sat on the carpet at the foot of the Night-Bird chair. The powerful figure that sat upon it looked down on his children with anticipation. Nijaro was like that, a showman, he always waited the right moment to throw himself into his performance. A terrifying and efficient mixture of threat and promise. Now, like a cat, he sprung:
My children, may the Night-Bird keep you all under its shadow. I have news for you, a great opportunity presents itself. The ship-family of the Iron-Turtle has long held the monopoly of iron from the west. With it they control the forges and the weapon smiths, and by extension have great influence over the army. However, I have received word through our sources, that a great source lies just to the north in the mountains. However it is in the hands of the Sorgh. If we, with our militia, can quell these nomads, feeble as they are, we will be in a position to end the monopoly, and even exercise a similar influence as the Iron-Turtles. I assume your support, and therefore I have posted a list of those who will be sent on this great venture!
With that he flourished his hands to the enthusiasm of the family. He sat once again, resuming his false stoicism he took when he was no longer performing.
Makala frown. There was no iron to the north, or at least he didn't think so. And the Sorgh may be uncivilized but one family militia wasn't near enough to do anything beside stir up trouble, or be slaughtered. What was Nijaro really up to? He decided to confront him after dinner.
After eating, Makala left for the roof, where Nijaro liked to watch the sunset. The man was stood with he arms crossed behind his back, his silhouette standing out against the setting sun. Makala took a moment himself to look at the moon. A red spot could be seen spreading near the bottom, blood was to come. He shook his head, but whose was to be spilled?
He looked back to the great figure that Nijaro caste. He was certainly a powerful man; big, strong. And clever too. But too heartless, and brash. He was among the first to spit on the ship-mothers of the other families, ruling their quiet oligarchies, but you could never accuse them of rushing into things. If anything quite the inverse. However, as a man, Makala could at most have contented himself with a good job and if his was lucky, a beautiful, if somewhat dominating, wife. That's why he'd left his ship-family and joined the Night-Birds. One of several ghost-families. Without the hereditary dominance of the ship-mothers, one could hope to have a certain importance, if not lead one day, like Nijaro. However life tended to be crueler, and shorter if you didn't learn quick enough. While the ship-families had their trade fleets and lands, the ghost-families tended to work the stalls, the forges, the smithies or join the army. However a small handful, such as the Night-Birds, worked the shadows, gathering and then selling information, or lives. Yes, it wasn't unknown for for a ship-mother to dies suspiciously, especially after a row with another mother from within or without her ship-family.
Makala's reflections were interrupted by Nijaro. Without moving, he spoke: So Makala, what troubles you? His tone was warm, but Makala knew that, if he could see his face, Nijaro would be scowling.
The iron troubles me, he replied especially that fact that it doesn't exist. So I ask myself why you are sending young scions to their death?
Ah, Makala, you always were a smart one. You know, you could have done quite well if you'd stayed at home. Even a ship-mother needs a strong man by her side. But such is the way of things. You now block my way.
He sighed. The death of our boys at the hands of the Sorgh, will allow me to cry scandal before the king. With the recent raids along the border he will be forced to move against them. Land will be annexed, especially with the rumors of iron I've been spreading. And a great many of the Sorgh will be brought under of aegis. First off, the new land may well be distributed among the ghost-families, and therefore us. But most of all, the Sorgh have no ship-family, and they're not likely to marry into one. No, they will have to join the ghost-families. Our numbers will increase, therefore our influence, and eventually, we may be able to overturn the domination of the ship-mothers once and for all.
Makala looked on somewhat stupefied. You've lost your mind. You make far too many assumptions. Who's to say the king won't simply increase the defenses? And even if the Sorgh are conquered, why wouldn't they simply create their own family? Your hatred for the ship-mothers blinds you.
The last edge of the sun dipped below the horizon, and Nijaro turned, in his left hand he brandished his knife. It's not me, it's everyone else. Especially you. And he lunged.
Makala saw the madness in his eyes, and was quicker. He always was. He let the body of Nijaro slump to the ground.
As he walked away he returned to his reflections, only this time he looked forward. He would have to call a meeting to announce the change of leadership. Removing the ship-mothers wasn't the thing to do, they were most useful. No he would have to make other plans.
And it would appear that his patience had paid off. You could never be quite sure with leaded deep-sight.
Golden1Knight
Emperor
From: Jipha
To: Holy Moti Empire
Our nation is not geared for war. We rely on diplomacy. We seek peaceful coexistence with our neighbors. However, we have our interests, like any other nation. First, we ask that you respect the supremacy of Jipha and Kilar on their respective lands. Second, we seek a commercial partnership. To the west of our peninsula, you control a region rich in slaves and ivory and other products move down the river Yensai. Since going overland is economically risky, your boats must make stops in Jipha, for repairs and supplies. All we want is an agreement beneficial to both parties: When you sell slaves and ivory here, you should give a discount to our merchants. So you will have a quick profit and close to home, cutting costs on shipping. However, your merchants may choose not to sell their goods here. In this case, to make stops in Jipha, they will have to pay the new Taxation Of Crossing. Thus, they will help us maintain an adequate infrastructure in our ports. Furthermore, we commit ourselves to give trading privileges to your merchants when they are buying our products.
We hope you think hard about it, since it will bring great progress for our nations. We are always accepting suggestions for this covenant may be even more beneficial.
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From: Jipha
To: Kilar
Greetings. Our people is and always has been similar. We have the same faith and culture. Where you have infantry, we have navy. Our nations are more than neighbors, are sisters. In the past, we were one. Let's get together again! Attach up to us, and participate in our New Era!
But if uncertainty and misfortune take your thoughts, and you refuse our offer, do not worry. When the right time comes, you will make the wisest decision. Until that day comes, we offer the following agreement: There will be no hostilities between our peoples, we will help one another whenever necessary, and eliminate all trading fees between us.
To: Holy Moti Empire
Our nation is not geared for war. We rely on diplomacy. We seek peaceful coexistence with our neighbors. However, we have our interests, like any other nation. First, we ask that you respect the supremacy of Jipha and Kilar on their respective lands. Second, we seek a commercial partnership. To the west of our peninsula, you control a region rich in slaves and ivory and other products move down the river Yensai. Since going overland is economically risky, your boats must make stops in Jipha, for repairs and supplies. All we want is an agreement beneficial to both parties: When you sell slaves and ivory here, you should give a discount to our merchants. So you will have a quick profit and close to home, cutting costs on shipping. However, your merchants may choose not to sell their goods here. In this case, to make stops in Jipha, they will have to pay the new Taxation Of Crossing. Thus, they will help us maintain an adequate infrastructure in our ports. Furthermore, we commit ourselves to give trading privileges to your merchants when they are buying our products.
We hope you think hard about it, since it will bring great progress for our nations. We are always accepting suggestions for this covenant may be even more beneficial.
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From: Jipha
To: Kilar
Greetings. Our people is and always has been similar. We have the same faith and culture. Where you have infantry, we have navy. Our nations are more than neighbors, are sisters. In the past, we were one. Let's get together again! Attach up to us, and participate in our New Era!
But if uncertainty and misfortune take your thoughts, and you refuse our offer, do not worry. When the right time comes, you will make the wisest decision. Until that day comes, we offer the following agreement: There will be no hostilities between our peoples, we will help one another whenever necessary, and eliminate all trading fees between us.
To: Dual Empire and Daharai Republic
From: Farubaida o Caroha
The Sarafaio is concerned that the hard-won peace in the southern seas is on the verge of disintegration over the issue of Dinyart. The Farubaida is a longstanding and close friend of the Savirai, but we do not wish to see the Daharai become our enemies. As such, we wish to prolong diplomatic talks, so that a war does not break out over the holy island.
To the Savirai Emperor, we ask you this: For what price or favour would you release the Isle of Dinyart?
From: Farubaida o Caroha
The Sarafaio is concerned that the hard-won peace in the southern seas is on the verge of disintegration over the issue of Dinyart. The Farubaida is a longstanding and close friend of the Savirai, but we do not wish to see the Daharai become our enemies. As such, we wish to prolong diplomatic talks, so that a war does not break out over the holy island.
To the Savirai Emperor, we ask you this: For what price or favour would you release the Isle of Dinyart?
North King
blech
- Joined
- Jan 2, 2004
- Messages
- 18,165
To: The Farubaida o Caroha, The Daharai Republic of the Opulens
From: Qasaarai V, Emperor of the Savirai and Nahar, the Flamebearer
Where in the laws of history is it written that the emperor of the governor who rules the isle of Dinyart must follow the path of enlightenment strictly, and never explore the other ideas in heaven? For while I may be the Bearer of Her Flame, the son of the Fourth Aitah, and brother to the one whom many call the Fifth, I am quite familiar with the precepts of Enlightenment, with the writings of Arasos and Jitanu, with the ideas of all those who would seek to better themselves by study of the universe and the meaning of eternity. I bear no ill will to such seekers, and they may do what they will in my countries -- indeed, I have given generously to ensure their monasteries survive in my southern cities.
I think that when you take all this under consideration, you will see that there is no reason for me to cede this holy island. I will keep this island in my perpetual trust -- I will ensure my governors and my generals are good men who follow the precepts of Indagahor, and the island shall remain inviolate.
From: Qasaarai V, Emperor of the Savirai and Nahar, the Flamebearer
Where in the laws of history is it written that the emperor of the governor who rules the isle of Dinyart must follow the path of enlightenment strictly, and never explore the other ideas in heaven? For while I may be the Bearer of Her Flame, the son of the Fourth Aitah, and brother to the one whom many call the Fifth, I am quite familiar with the precepts of Enlightenment, with the writings of Arasos and Jitanu, with the ideas of all those who would seek to better themselves by study of the universe and the meaning of eternity. I bear no ill will to such seekers, and they may do what they will in my countries -- indeed, I have given generously to ensure their monasteries survive in my southern cities.
I think that when you take all this under consideration, you will see that there is no reason for me to cede this holy island. I will keep this island in my perpetual trust -- I will ensure my governors and my generals are good men who follow the precepts of Indagahor, and the island shall remain inviolate.
TheMeanestGuest
Warlord
To: Farubaida o Caroha and the Dual Empire of the Savirai and the Nahari
From: The Opulensi Republic of the Daharai
The Red Chamber has considered the words of the Emperor Qasaarai, and has considered its desires for war. We have found that we desire no war so long as the words of the Emperor Qasaarai remain true. So long as the Brothers of our Order shall be free to come to Dinyart as they might - and indeed, so long as any who seek to walk upon the path are granted such freedom - then the Republic and the Order of the Daharai shall not bring war again to the Nakalani.
From: The Opulensi Republic of the Daharai
The Red Chamber has considered the words of the Emperor Qasaarai, and has considered its desires for war. We have found that we desire no war so long as the words of the Emperor Qasaarai remain true. So long as the Brothers of our Order shall be free to come to Dinyart as they might - and indeed, so long as any who seek to walk upon the path are granted such freedom - then the Republic and the Order of the Daharai shall not bring war again to the Nakalani.
North King
blech
- Joined
- Jan 2, 2004
- Messages
- 18,165
One week to the deadline!
The brotherhood that runs between our peoples is one we treasure, but brothers are not the same person, and that is one thing we must remember. Nevertheless, as long as we live, hostility and strife shall never visit the border between us, and you may always expect our aid in times of need.
The brotherhood that runs between our peoples is one we treasure, but brothers are not the same person, and that is one thing we must remember. Nevertheless, as long as we live, hostility and strife shall never visit the border between us, and you may always expect our aid in times of need.
SamSniped
DJ Goodboye
NK, can I get a reply to my diplo PM? Thanks
Golden1Knight
Emperor
One week to the deadline!
The brotherhood that runs between our peoples is one we treasure, but brothers are not the same person, and that is one thing we must remember. Nevertheless, as long as we live, hostility and strife shall never visit the border between us, and you may always expect our aid in times of need.
From: Jipha
To: Kilar
So be it then. But if you change your mind, we will always be with open arms. We are the last states in the region that have not been absorbed by the great powers that are in the north. Let's preserve it.
Thlayli
Le Pétit Prince
This from the Order that overthrew the Empire because the peace the Emperor signed ceded too much territory.
North King
blech
- Joined
- Jan 2, 2004
- Messages
- 18,165
This from the Order that overthrew the Empire because the peace the Emperor signed ceded too much territory.
I mean, the whole "trying to kill them" thing was a pretty big motivator as well.
