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The Redux of the Tale of a Falling Empire
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jaydude
Five Thousand Club
For IC Stuff.
Prologue: Arrival in Kandara, Session 1, Scene 1
jaydude
Five Thousand Club
Prologue: Arrival in Kandara
Realm Year 763, before the Scarlet Empress's disappearance
The heat of both summer and the not-too-distant south hangs in the morning air as the ship makes its way towards the harbor of Kandara. It's a big vessel, the kind used often by cargo merchants, with Realm flags flapping atop each of its three masts. And judging from the group of imperial triremes sailing alongside, it's clearly carrying something - or someone - of high value.
Indeed, onboard the ship is Ragara Neva Kitava, the new Satrap of Kandara. Her appointment was largely the result of Blessed Isle drama; Mnemon - who considers being from House Ragara to be death at the best of times - was none too pleased when Kitava suddenly uncovered a means of summoning Second Circle Demons, fearing that she could soon be dealing with a sorcerous rival if the younger woman was not dealt with. As a result of this hostility - as well as distrust from some of the other Great Houses - the Scarlett Empress arranged for Kitava to be put in charge within Kandara, seeing it as a way to both keep her from becoming the center of a political shitstorm, and allow her to make use of the skills she acquired at the Spiral Academy.
Accompanying Kitava are the four other Dragon-blooded who will serve as her satrapial staff. Tepet Manato, a House of Bells graduate assigned to take control of Kandara's Realm garrison. Ragara Neva Taeran, an assassin of sorts and Kitava's little sister. Ledaal Ferela, a veteran Dynast officially in charge of finances, but who may also have been appointed by the Empress to placate House Ledaal and their desire to keep an eye on Kitava. And finally there's Ragara Ramuron, Kitava's bodyguard who just so happens to be her brother-in-law through marriage to Taeran.
---
The five of you will of course have been briefed on the city-state of Kandara prior to your journey. It's one of the Realm's oldest satrapies, and also one of the oldest nations formed after the Balorian Crusade, beginning as a settlement founded by survivors of both that and the Great Contagion. Since joining the Realm it has been ruled by House Hasuri, one of the Scarlet Dynasty's cadet houses. Though once part of the Realm's frontier, it has waned in strategic importance since the conquest of Snakehead in the east resulted in the Lunar Anathema and their beastfolk armies being pushed back further from the Blessed Isle, but it is still a wealthy territory with a people loyal to both the Scarlett Empress and the Immaculate Philosophy. And were Snakehead to fall, Kandara would once again become the Realm's first line of defense in the area.
As your ship enters the harbor, it sails past a great bronze statue built upon an islet. It is of a man in Shogunate-style plate armor, both his hands holding a scale model of what is clearly some kind of daiklave, the weapon raised high in the air as if in a guard position. This, you will be told at some point, is Hasuri, the founder of the cadet house bearing his name, and the Fire Aspect who came to Kandara in its early days, saving it from destruction and becoming its first Dragon-blooded king.
Looking all around you see that the harbor is a hubbub of activity, ships sailing to and from the docks, others having cargo loaded and unloaded. Your ship heads to a wharf that has been cordoned off from the rest of the area, forcing those who might wish to gawk at the new satrap to do so from behind a contingent of armed troops, both Realm soldiers and city watchmen. Waiting for you underneath a small pavilion are a group of three people, all of them with the same shade of jet-black hair and light-bronze skin, as well as adornments that mark them as essence users.
The first of the trio is a young boy, no more than twelve or thirteen, wearing amber robes of high office along with an ornate gold crown, as well as a sheathed daiklave on his hip. Upon closer inspection, the hilt of the daiklave bears a strong resemblance to that of the weapon being wielded by Hasuri's statue. All of you quickly recognize him as Hasuri Boroma, the current king of Kandara ever since his father was killed during a Tyrant Lizard hunt gone wrong (with the grief causing him to Exalt as a Fire Aspect Dragon-blooded.
The second is a woman around Manato's age, who displays an air of regal dignity in her bearing, but also a hint of kindness to her, as well as a strong resemblance to Boroma in her facial features. She wears a fine robe of dark-blue silk, and has her hair done up in an elaborate style that nevertheless allows some of it to reach past her shoulders. Around her neck is what appears to be an exquisitely crafted necklace of black jade.
The third of the trio, stood on Boroma's left, is a man around Taeran's age. He has the look of a seasoned soldier; tall and well-built - as indicated thanks to the sleeveless ochre-colored buff-jacket he wears - and stood to rigid attention with eyes that are the picture of alertness and focus. Were Ramuron to look at the man, he'd quickly sense something similar about him, before realizing that he too is a bodyguard. On his left arm he wears a gauntlet that appears to be made from Red Jade, clearly an artifact of some kind, but he carries no visible weapon.
The second is a woman around Manato's age, who displays an air of regal dignity in her bearing, but also a hint of kindness to her, as well as a strong resemblance to Boroma in her facial features. She wears a fine robe of dark-blue silk, and has her hair done up in an elaborate style that nevertheless allows some of it to reach past her shoulders. Around her neck is what appears to be an exquisitely crafted necklace of black jade.
The third of the trio, stood on Boroma's left, is a man around Taeran's age. He has the look of a seasoned soldier; tall and well-built - as indicated thanks to the sleeveless ochre-colored buff-jacket he wears - and stood to rigid attention with eyes that are the picture of alertness and focus. Were Ramuron to look at the man, he'd quickly sense something similar about him, before realizing that he too is a bodyguard. On his left arm he wears a gauntlet that appears to be made from Red Jade, clearly an artifact of some kind, but he carries no visible weapon.
With the help of the dockworkers, the crew of the ship moor it at the wharf, and a wooden gangplank is lowered down to allow you all to disembark. With the sound of it landing against the stone of the wharf, your tenure - as well as your tale - has begun...
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Rykon
Five Thousand Club
Few events sparked patriotic pride like the pomp and ceremony of a changing of the guard. Anxiety and hesitation fled behind the veil of hope and anticipation once the day had finally arrived. Tepet Manato led the train down the gangplank as a matter of both practicality and tradition and waited at the dock to escort the next administration of Kandara alongside his brother of a sort. Journeys from the isle like this were always numbing affairs, naught but fishing, gambling, or reading to pass the time in the interim. Which always stretched the end of one's patience. Once the pair of warriors had assured none of their entourage's sea-legs betrayed them, he greeted the local monarchy with a respectful nod.
"Well met house Hasuri. I present Lady Ragara Neva Kitava and her staff." He finally spoke in a warm voice that carried the calming tone of spring. A pin of Tepet's mon adorned his scarf and cloak, wrapping his armor in the traditional colors of his house to suit a formal appearance. In contrast to the rich blue and bleached white of his attire was a Grand Daiklave clad in the colors of dormant flame, content to rest in its scabbard. Manato turned his attention to the rest of his companions, likely eager to move past the ship and explore their new accommodations.
"Well met house Hasuri. I present Lady Ragara Neva Kitava and her staff." He finally spoke in a warm voice that carried the calming tone of spring. A pin of Tepet's mon adorned his scarf and cloak, wrapping his armor in the traditional colors of his house to suit a formal appearance. In contrast to the rich blue and bleached white of his attire was a Grand Daiklave clad in the colors of dormant flame, content to rest in its scabbard. Manato turned his attention to the rest of his companions, likely eager to move past the ship and explore their new accommodations.
jaydude
Five Thousand Club
Once the five of you five are assembled in front of them, Boroma and the other two all clasp their hands together while bowing their heads in greeting.
"Satrap Kitava and company." says Boroma, speaking with the formality of a man twice his age. "I am Hasuri Boroma, king of Kandara. This is my mother and regent Netara..."
The woman in blue smiles politely and nods her head.
"...and my cousin and bodyguard Janhuren."
The tall man tilts his head forward a little in acknowledgement of Boroma's words, but otherwise remains stoic and alert.
"On behalf of my people and my family, I welcome you to Kandara, and I hope that we can all work together for the benefit of both the Realm and this kingdom." concludes Boroma.
"The five of you must all be weary from your time at sea." says Netara. "Would you like to head to the palace now and get some refreshment? We have all manner of transportation options for you; horses, palanquins, or a carriage."
"Satrap Kitava and company." says Boroma, speaking with the formality of a man twice his age. "I am Hasuri Boroma, king of Kandara. This is my mother and regent Netara..."
The woman in blue smiles politely and nods her head.
"...and my cousin and bodyguard Janhuren."
The tall man tilts his head forward a little in acknowledgement of Boroma's words, but otherwise remains stoic and alert.
"On behalf of my people and my family, I welcome you to Kandara, and I hope that we can all work together for the benefit of both the Realm and this kingdom." concludes Boroma.
"The five of you must all be weary from your time at sea." says Netara. "Would you like to head to the palace now and get some refreshment? We have all manner of transportation options for you; horses, palanquins, or a carriage."
Random Word
Three Thousand Club
Down the gangplank wide enough to unload a dragon twenty abreast descends a cavalcade of splendors in shining white and gold; opulently dressed mandarins, servants, and standard bearers, banners snapping in the wind. In the middle of it all, the implacable eye of the storm, is the ice queen herself behind the billowing veils of a palanquin born aloft by four statues of living ice. The procession comes to halt before the royal greeting party and a pale foot in a heel of everlasting ice steps delicately out onto a smoothly unfurled white carpet with gold borders. With well drilled precision to do the finest of Imperial Legions proud the procession swiftly and silently prostrate themselves as Ragara Neva Kitava rises through the veils to her full and imposing height, her presence like a sudden bolt of insight in a moment of dire need, her eyes bright shining pools of ice cold clarity, her pale blue almost-white hair braided into an elaborate pattern hinting at a storm dragon marshalling wayward clouds into the singularly directed fury of a hurricane. She is clothed in dozens of flowing diaphanous layers of cloud silk dusted with sparkling diamond sequins shining like snowflakes in a blizzard swirling around her, revealing only a rumour of shapely form beneath it all as they drift lazily in the currents of her anima. Her pale blue lips and cheeks are dusted with frost, her breath misting before her, her earrings heavy with blue jade and crystals of eternal ice, the reflections cast in their broad facets subtly and unnervingly different from reality.
She takes two slow steps forward with all the weight and gravitas of a glacier to stand beside Tepet Manato, giving him a subtle nod of appreciation for announcing her, and then gracefully descends to one knee, "In the name of Her Imperial Majesty, Saviour and Protector of the Realm, the Scarlet Empress, it is my honour to serve Your Majesty, King Hasuri Boroma, as your duly appointed advisor and Her representative in Kandara. May the beneficent wisdom of Ten Thousand Dragons prove an invaluable resource to you in guiding your people to peace and prosperity under the Perfected Hierarchy of the Immaculate Faith."
A servant steps forward with a white silk pillow with golden tassels, on top of which rests a white jade and obsidian scepter set with rubies. "Please, accept this small token of the esteem of House Ragara. The youngest son of the last of the Southwestern Shoguns took up this sceptre during the final years of the Balorian Crusade after his father and older siblings had fallen in valiant defence of Creation. Despite the terrible burden placed on his shoulders at such a young age he rose admirably to the occasion and for two seasons held the ravaging hordes at bay until the Empress unleashed the power of the Imperial Manse to save us all. We honour him both for his martial acumen and great wisdom in swiftly swearing fealty to the Empress after her ascension, thus securing the safety, security, and prosperity of his people. May this scepter grant you some measure of his strength and wisdom in your hour of need."
She rises and casts her pitiless incisive gaze over the assembled royal party, her keen analytical mind taking in and considering subtle cues of posture, facial expression, and dress to take their measure. Finally her gaze settles on Netara and she smiles without warmth, eyes alight with the flickering manic energy of a pent up storm about to be unleashed, as she replies, "Weary? I have proven myself a tireless servant of the Empress, and I hope to prove myself no less in your service. There is much work to be done. I begin at once. Once I have established my headquarters, at your earliest convenience nothing should please me more than to discuss your vision for Kandara, that I might determine how best the Realm's wisdom might assist you in its swift and efficacious realization."
She takes two slow steps forward with all the weight and gravitas of a glacier to stand beside Tepet Manato, giving him a subtle nod of appreciation for announcing her, and then gracefully descends to one knee, "In the name of Her Imperial Majesty, Saviour and Protector of the Realm, the Scarlet Empress, it is my honour to serve Your Majesty, King Hasuri Boroma, as your duly appointed advisor and Her representative in Kandara. May the beneficent wisdom of Ten Thousand Dragons prove an invaluable resource to you in guiding your people to peace and prosperity under the Perfected Hierarchy of the Immaculate Faith."
A servant steps forward with a white silk pillow with golden tassels, on top of which rests a white jade and obsidian scepter set with rubies. "Please, accept this small token of the esteem of House Ragara. The youngest son of the last of the Southwestern Shoguns took up this sceptre during the final years of the Balorian Crusade after his father and older siblings had fallen in valiant defence of Creation. Despite the terrible burden placed on his shoulders at such a young age he rose admirably to the occasion and for two seasons held the ravaging hordes at bay until the Empress unleashed the power of the Imperial Manse to save us all. We honour him both for his martial acumen and great wisdom in swiftly swearing fealty to the Empress after her ascension, thus securing the safety, security, and prosperity of his people. May this scepter grant you some measure of his strength and wisdom in your hour of need."
She rises and casts her pitiless incisive gaze over the assembled royal party, her keen analytical mind taking in and considering subtle cues of posture, facial expression, and dress to take their measure. Finally her gaze settles on Netara and she smiles without warmth, eyes alight with the flickering manic energy of a pent up storm about to be unleashed, as she replies, "Weary? I have proven myself a tireless servant of the Empress, and I hope to prove myself no less in your service. There is much work to be done. I begin at once. Once I have established my headquarters, at your earliest convenience nothing should please me more than to discuss your vision for Kandara, that I might determine how best the Realm's wisdom might assist you in its swift and efficacious realization."
What do you mean you shouldn't spend all your motes on the first five seconds of the first scene of the campaign?
Influencing Boruma. Committing 1m to Harmonious Presence Meditation to add a success to all social rolls and from the DB Mode 2 dice to Instilling positive intimacies. Thoughtful Gift Technique doubles 9s and adds 5 dice if Kitava's Backing 5 from House Ragara can be leveraged as if it were Resources 5 on this roll. She has borrowed heavily from her family to finance her first impression here, and will be looking to make money quickly to rebuild her fortune and repay her relatives.
Force 4 + Embassy 5 + TGT 5 + HPM 2 + Stunt 2 = 18 dice + 1 success; 14 hits + 1 = 15 successes; Gotta go figure out what I can spend those on. So, it looks like for each threshold success over Boruma's Resolve I can add a new intimacy. That's a lot. 2 successes strengthens an existing intimacy - not sure if I learn any of those from the read intentions of Motive Discerning Technique - or persuades him to some course of action.
Reading the royal party with Motive Discerning Technique, spending 1m on Embassy Excellency
Finesse 3 + Embassy 5 + Embassy Excellency 5 + Stunt 2 = 15; 8 hits, granting answers to 8 questions:
• Does the character feel positively, negatively, or neutrally about me?
• Do the character and I share an Intimacy? [I should really write Kitava's intimacies, huh?]
• What haven’t I noticed about the character
• How could I get the character to do what I want? [Support her agenda of sweeping experimental reforms.]
• Who’s really in authority here?
• What do I have that someone here wants?
• What would constitute a grievous faux pas in this circle?
• What grudge is being hidden?
3/7 motes committed, 1/7 spent, 3/7 free.
Influencing Boruma. Committing 1m to Harmonious Presence Meditation to add a success to all social rolls and from the DB Mode 2 dice to Instilling positive intimacies. Thoughtful Gift Technique doubles 9s and adds 5 dice if Kitava's Backing 5 from House Ragara can be leveraged as if it were Resources 5 on this roll. She has borrowed heavily from her family to finance her first impression here, and will be looking to make money quickly to rebuild her fortune and repay her relatives.
Force 4 + Embassy 5 + TGT 5 + HPM 2 + Stunt 2 = 18 dice + 1 success; 14 hits + 1 = 15 successes; Gotta go figure out what I can spend those on. So, it looks like for each threshold success over Boruma's Resolve I can add a new intimacy. That's a lot. 2 successes strengthens an existing intimacy - not sure if I learn any of those from the read intentions of Motive Discerning Technique - or persuades him to some course of action.
Reading the royal party with Motive Discerning Technique, spending 1m on Embassy Excellency
Finesse 3 + Embassy 5 + Embassy Excellency 5 + Stunt 2 = 15; 8 hits, granting answers to 8 questions:
• Does the character feel positively, negatively, or neutrally about me?
• Do the character and I share an Intimacy? [I should really write Kitava's intimacies, huh?]
• What haven’t I noticed about the character
• How could I get the character to do what I want? [Support her agenda of sweeping experimental reforms.]
• Who’s really in authority here?
• What do I have that someone here wants?
• What would constitute a grievous faux pas in this circle?
• What grudge is being hidden?
3/7 motes committed, 1/7 spent, 3/7 free.
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Chowlett
Member
With all the pomp surrounding Kitava's descent from the ship, the remaining dynasts that followed after her were necessarily given much less attention by the assembled party; but that suited Ferela just fine. She knew the place well, of course - she had after all nominally served as Auspicious Mistress of the Jade Vaults of Kandara for several decades - but the recall to the Blessed Isle in order that satrap Kitava might arrive with her full retinue had been unexpected. Now, arriving back, it was a chance to see everything and everyone with fresh eyes.
So Ferela followed the palanquin and its ostentatious attendants at a small distance; formal blue robes with the subtle read embroidery that marked her out as of House Ledaal billowed and flowed around her. She held a small stack of scroll cases under her left arm, while her right bore a long, slender black staff of office, all wound about with gold. As she reached the bottom of the gangplank, the scroll cases seemed to slip slightly under he left arm; she gripped the staff tightly to her body as she rearranged them with her right hand.
Of course, this was the tiniest piece of misdirection, a ruse. Ferela's balance was naturally impeccable. But taking a moment to correct her comportment afforded her time - just a moment - to stand still and obverse the scene and its occupants. A new ruler was always a time where tensions could run high, and she should be sure to know about them before anything came to a head.
So Ferela followed the palanquin and its ostentatious attendants at a small distance; formal blue robes with the subtle read embroidery that marked her out as of House Ledaal billowed and flowed around her. She held a small stack of scroll cases under her left arm, while her right bore a long, slender black staff of office, all wound about with gold. As she reached the bottom of the gangplank, the scroll cases seemed to slip slightly under he left arm; she gripped the staff tightly to her body as she rearranged them with her right hand.
Of course, this was the tiniest piece of misdirection, a ruse. Ferela's balance was naturally impeccable. But taking a moment to correct her comportment afforded her time - just a moment - to stand still and obverse the scene and its occupants. A new ruler was always a time where tensions could run high, and she should be sure to know about them before anything came to a head.
Spend 1 mote on Awareness excellency.
Finesse 4 + Awareness 5 + Excellency 5 + Stunt 2 = 16 dice; 9 successes
Finesse 4 + Awareness 5 + Excellency 5 + Stunt 2 = 16 dice; 9 successes
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jaydude
Five Thousand Club
Boroma and his mother can't help but be impressed at the display of wealth Kitava can afford to spend on her entrance. Even Janhuren appears to widen his eyes a little in appreciation, but it quickly disappears. Presumably he's wary about attempts to flatter his charge.
The young king of Kandara then takes the scepter offered to him, he and the other two looking at it while listening attentively to Kitava's explanation on what it is. Form their expressions, they seem to assume that this specific gift is a gesture of good faith, a sign that Kitava believes Boroma can replicate the feats of the Last Shogun's son, as well as an encouragement to do so.
He bows his head in gratitude. "You have my thanks for this gift, Lady Satrap. I only hope that I prove as worthy a man as the Last Shogun's son." he says solemnly.
At Kitava's request for a meeting, Netara glances questioningly at her son, receiving a tiny nod in response. She then turns back to the satrap and nods her head. "Of course, Lady Satrap. Once you and your staff are settled in, I will be more than happy to discuss such matters with you."
Observing the scene in front of her, Ferela does not sense much in the way of tensions between the three Hasuri Dragon-blooded. Her instincts tell her two things; it has been a couple of years since the last king's death, suggesting that Boroma and Netara have been able to move on to at least some extent, and far from being at any odds, the trio all care greatly about each other.
See below spoiler,
Chowlett
Random Word
[OOC: With regards to the stats below, I do reserve the right to alter them in the future, depending on how things work out.]
The young king of Kandara then takes the scepter offered to him, he and the other two looking at it while listening attentively to Kitava's explanation on what it is. Form their expressions, they seem to assume that this specific gift is a gesture of good faith, a sign that Kitava believes Boroma can replicate the feats of the Last Shogun's son, as well as an encouragement to do so.
He bows his head in gratitude. "You have my thanks for this gift, Lady Satrap. I only hope that I prove as worthy a man as the Last Shogun's son." he says solemnly.
At Kitava's request for a meeting, Netara glances questioningly at her son, receiving a tiny nod in response. She then turns back to the satrap and nods her head. "Of course, Lady Satrap. Once you and your staff are settled in, I will be more than happy to discuss such matters with you."
Observing the scene in front of her, Ferela does not sense much in the way of tensions between the three Hasuri Dragon-blooded. Her instincts tell her two things; it has been a couple of years since the last king's death, suggesting that Boroma and Netara have been able to move on to at least some extent, and far from being at any odds, the trio all care greatly about each other.
See below spoiler,
Chowlett
Random Word
Boroma has a Resolve of 3, and is not attempting to resist either of your rolls. And yes, Random, you may use your Backing as Resources, but that'll be your single use for this story.
You get 15 successes on your Instill roll. What sort of Intimacies do you want to give Boroma? As for Motive-Discerning Technique, I've detailed the answers to your questions in another spoiler.
Chowlett, I'm assuming you want to do a Read Intentions action here.
Intimacies learned are as followed:
Boroma:
Major Principle: I want to be remembered as a great king who saw his people thrive while he ruled (Compassion)
Major Tie: Netara (Love, Compassion)
Major Tie: House Hasuri (Duty, Justice)
Netara:
Major Principle: I will do what I can to see our house prosper (Loyalty)
Major Tie: Boroma (Love, Compassion)
Major Tie: House Hasuri (Duty, Loyalty)
Janhuren:
Major Principle: I will not be easily swayed from my duty to our house (Discipline)
Major Tie: House Hasuri (Duty, Loyalty)
You get 15 successes on your Instill roll. What sort of Intimacies do you want to give Boroma? As for Motive-Discerning Technique, I've detailed the answers to your questions in another spoiler.
Chowlett, I'm assuming you want to do a Read Intentions action here.
Intimacies learned are as followed:
Boroma:
Major Principle: I want to be remembered as a great king who saw his people thrive while he ruled (Compassion)
Major Tie: Netara (Love, Compassion)
Major Tie: House Hasuri (Duty, Justice)
Netara:
Major Principle: I will do what I can to see our house prosper (Loyalty)
Major Tie: Boroma (Love, Compassion)
Major Tie: House Hasuri (Duty, Loyalty)
Janhuren:
Major Principle: I will not be easily swayed from my duty to our house (Discipline)
Major Tie: House Hasuri (Duty, Loyalty)
• So far, Boroma and Netara are feeling positive about you. Janhuren on the other hand is neutral, though this is only because he's aware that he might one day have to fight you to protect Boroma.
• Yeah, it might not hurt to get those intimacies sorted. Otherwise, I can tell you that Boroma, Netara and Janhuren all have Minor Ties of Loyalty towards the Scarlet Empress.
• Regarding Boroma and Netara, there's nothing of note that stands out after a more in-depth explanation. For Janhuren meanwhile, you notice that his red jade gauntlet is in fact the Scale of Hesiesh, a collapsible Thunderbolt Shield that is currently in its folded-up form.
• With regards to supporting sweeping experimental reforms, you would have to A) Make clear how said reforms can benefit them and Kandara, and B) make sure you present a well-thought out plan that has a high chance of success.
• Netara is officially in charge as her son's regent, but she always makes sure to discuss matters of state with Boroma, and support his final decisions if doing so would be practical. If anything, the two of them are equals, sharing power as mother and son.
• Right now, the three Hasuri Dragon-blooded want your approval as satrap. Boroma and Netara both know that Kandara's best ages have generally come when the monarch and satrap saw eye-to-eye.
• Probably the worst thing you could do here is treat Boroma as a puppet ruler on account of his age, or encourage Netara to do so. Boroma wants to be a good and wise king for his people, and the queen mother has no intention of taking advantage of either her husband's untimely death or her son's age.
• The only hidden grudges currently being held here are towards the Tyrant Lizard which killed the previous ruler of Kandara, King Fuhao. Apparently the beast is still alive and roaming about somewhere.
• Yeah, it might not hurt to get those intimacies sorted. Otherwise, I can tell you that Boroma, Netara and Janhuren all have Minor Ties of Loyalty towards the Scarlet Empress.
• Regarding Boroma and Netara, there's nothing of note that stands out after a more in-depth explanation. For Janhuren meanwhile, you notice that his red jade gauntlet is in fact the Scale of Hesiesh, a collapsible Thunderbolt Shield that is currently in its folded-up form.
• With regards to supporting sweeping experimental reforms, you would have to A) Make clear how said reforms can benefit them and Kandara, and B) make sure you present a well-thought out plan that has a high chance of success.
• Netara is officially in charge as her son's regent, but she always makes sure to discuss matters of state with Boroma, and support his final decisions if doing so would be practical. If anything, the two of them are equals, sharing power as mother and son.
• Right now, the three Hasuri Dragon-blooded want your approval as satrap. Boroma and Netara both know that Kandara's best ages have generally come when the monarch and satrap saw eye-to-eye.
• Probably the worst thing you could do here is treat Boroma as a puppet ruler on account of his age, or encourage Netara to do so. Boroma wants to be a good and wise king for his people, and the queen mother has no intention of taking advantage of either her husband's untimely death or her son's age.
• The only hidden grudges currently being held here are towards the Tyrant Lizard which killed the previous ruler of Kandara, King Fuhao. Apparently the beast is still alive and roaming about somewhere.
[OOC: With regards to the stats below, I do reserve the right to alter them in the future, depending on how things work out.]
Template: Sovereign
Primary Pool (7): Civil Administration
Secondary Pool (5): Command and Law, Combat, Other Embassy, Social Influence
Tertiary Pool (4): Quick Decisions
Virtues: Justice, Compassion
Resolve: 3
Health Levels: 7
Essence: 1
Defense: 4
Hardness: 3
Soak: 4
Charms/Qualities
Excellency
High-Profile
Red Iron Flames (Wyldburn Evocation) - Commit one mote. For the rest of the scene, Wyldburn's blade becomes enveloped in flames that do aggravated damage to Fair Folk.
Weapon: Wyldburn - Red Jade Daiklave (+2 Accuracy, +1 Defense, +1 Damage, 4 Overwhelming, Tags: Artifact, Melee, One-Handed, Balanced)
Primary Pool (7): Civil Administration
Secondary Pool (5): Command and Law, Combat, Other Embassy, Social Influence
Tertiary Pool (4): Quick Decisions
Virtues: Justice, Compassion
Resolve: 3
Health Levels: 7
Essence: 1
Defense: 4
Hardness: 3
Soak: 4
Charms/Qualities
Excellency
High-Profile
Red Iron Flames (Wyldburn Evocation) - Commit one mote. For the rest of the scene, Wyldburn's blade becomes enveloped in flames that do aggravated damage to Fair Folk.
Weapon: Wyldburn - Red Jade Daiklave (+2 Accuracy, +1 Defense, +1 Damage, 4 Overwhelming, Tags: Artifact, Melee, One-Handed, Balanced)
Template: Aristocrat
Primary Pool (8): Social Influence
Secondary Pool (6): Civil Administration, Combat
Tertiary Pool (4):
Virtues: Loyalty (to House Hasuri), Compassion
Resolve: 3
Health Levels: 5
Essence: 2
Defense: 4
Hardness: 3
Soak: 2
Charms/Qualities
Asset Freeze*
Did I Authorize This?*
Excellency
High-Profile
Motive-Discerning Technique
*As a result of being Boroma's regent
Primary Pool (8): Social Influence
Secondary Pool (6): Civil Administration, Combat
Tertiary Pool (4):
Virtues: Loyalty (to House Hasuri), Compassion
Resolve: 3
Health Levels: 5
Essence: 2
Defense: 4
Hardness: 3
Soak: 2
Charms/Qualities
Asset Freeze*
Did I Authorize This?*
Excellency
High-Profile
Motive-Discerning Technique
*As a result of being Boroma's regent
Template: Champion
Primary Pool (8): Athletics, Combat, Read Intentions
Secondary Pool (7): Intimidation, Senses
Tertiary Pool (4): Other Social Influence
Virtues: Loyalty (to House Hasuri), Discipline
Resolve: 3
Health Levels: 5
Defense: 5
Hardness: 3
Soak: 4
Charms/Qualities
Excellency
Arsenal-Summoning Gesture
All-Encompassing Earth Sense
Ambush-Sensing Premonition
Weapons
Scale of Hesiesh - Red Jade Collapsible Thunderbolt Shield (+2 Accuracy, +1 Defense, 0 Damage, 3 Overwhelming, Tags: Artifact, Melee, One-Handed, Shield)
Primary Pool (8): Athletics, Combat, Read Intentions
Secondary Pool (7): Intimidation, Senses
Tertiary Pool (4): Other Social Influence
Virtues: Loyalty (to House Hasuri), Discipline
Resolve: 3
Health Levels: 5
Defense: 5
Hardness: 3
Soak: 4
Charms/Qualities
Excellency
Arsenal-Summoning Gesture
All-Encompassing Earth Sense
Ambush-Sensing Premonition
Weapons
Scale of Hesiesh - Red Jade Collapsible Thunderbolt Shield (+2 Accuracy, +1 Defense, 0 Damage, 3 Overwhelming, Tags: Artifact, Melee, One-Handed, Shield)
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WlfSamurai
Maelstrom Engineer
Taeran can’t help but roll her eyes at this display of self-importance. My, how power goes to the head of the chosen, she considers quietly to herself. It takes all her might not to stalk forward and blurt out one of the many embarrassing stories shooting through her head about her sister.
Instead she keeps leaning again the mast, arms folded. Happy to stay in the background, unnoticed, Taeran takes stock of the the group who has met her sister at the dock. Then, she widens her scan to take in the surroundings, looking for threats, attack angles, and escape routes. It isn’t something she’s actively doing as much as it is something her body does instinctively. She’s always done it, truth be told. The training she received only worked to hone it to an even more useful skill.
She waits with the patience of a ghost for this event to be over and she can roam the streets unnoticed, taking in the real city: the gangs, cutthroats, and black market.
Instead she keeps leaning again the mast, arms folded. Happy to stay in the background, unnoticed, Taeran takes stock of the the group who has met her sister at the dock. Then, she widens her scan to take in the surroundings, looking for threats, attack angles, and escape routes. It isn’t something she’s actively doing as much as it is something her body does instinctively. She’s always done it, truth be told. The training she received only worked to hone it to an even more useful skill.
She waits with the patience of a ghost for this event to be over and she can roam the streets unnoticed, taking in the real city: the gangs, cutthroats, and black market.
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D. Rex
Magic Eight Ball
Ramuron was a man of little import in Kitava's display. As oppulent, and effective as it was, all he had to do was just stay out of the way and let her do the politics. And that he could do just fine. Just had to keep his mouth shut. But even as he was within arms length of her, Ramuron wasn't hard to miss. He was tall and broad, made even larger by his armor, the heavy plates of white jade like the scales of a dragon, and fists and firearms by thick jade gauntlets. He seemed quite ready to get into a fight at a moments notice. But such was his unenviable job now.
Aside from giving Janhuren a simple nod of acknowledgement, Ramuron kept his focus on his surroundings. Beckoning the earth itself to betray those nearby. Every heartbeat, every breath, every minute movement, all traveled through the ground to him, painting a picture in his head as if he were a molehound seeking its dinner. The earth was his eyes. Leaving his own eyes free to seek out other threats.
It wasn't that he didn't trust Kendara, but he didn't trust Kendara. He had no doubt this Boroma, would want to keep the satrap safe, and plenty of reasons to. But all it takes is one assumption for Kitava to end up dead.
3 sux
Aside from giving Janhuren a simple nod of acknowledgement, Ramuron kept his focus on his surroundings. Beckoning the earth itself to betray those nearby. Every heartbeat, every breath, every minute movement, all traveled through the ground to him, painting a picture in his head as if he were a molehound seeking its dinner. The earth was his eyes. Leaving his own eyes free to seek out other threats.
It wasn't that he didn't trust Kendara, but he didn't trust Kendara. He had no doubt this Boroma, would want to keep the satrap safe, and plenty of reasons to. But all it takes is one assumption for Kitava to end up dead.
All-Encompassing Earth Sense
Prerequisite: Awareness 3
The Dragon-Blooded can sense the vibrations of a soldier taking a step as easily as a leaf falling from a branch.
Commit 1 mote. The Exalt automatically perceives a hidden danger or concealed character out to medium range as long as they are on the same surface, or no more than one range band above on structures or scenery resting on the ground, such as a roof or a tree branch.
If the target is hidden flawlessly, contest it with a roll off using Awareness. The Dragon-Blood gains double 8s on this roll. This may not sense threats which are airborne, waterborne or taking other measures to avoid moving across a solid service. Hearthmates within range may benefit from this enhanced perception.
Prerequisite: Awareness 3
The Dragon-Blooded can sense the vibrations of a soldier taking a step as easily as a leaf falling from a branch.
Commit 1 mote. The Exalt automatically perceives a hidden danger or concealed character out to medium range as long as they are on the same surface, or no more than one range band above on structures or scenery resting on the ground, such as a roof or a tree branch.
If the target is hidden flawlessly, contest it with a roll off using Awareness. The Dragon-Blood gains double 8s on this roll. This may not sense threats which are airborne, waterborne or taking other measures to avoid moving across a solid service. Hearthmates within range may benefit from this enhanced perception.
3 sux
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jaydude
Five Thousand Club
Ramuron is unable to detect any concealed persons within the vicinity.
Random Word
Three Thousand Club
Kitava stifles a laugh at the insecure man warding the boy. Someday he would have to learn that if you jump at every shadow you'll be too exhausted to see the real threats coming. If the Empress wanted the boy dead all the wary reserve in the world wouldn't save him, and Kitava has better things to do than assassinate children. She smiles slightly at how promising this posting is shaping up to be. The regent and child are amenable to change and lack only a compelling vision to guide them, something she is more than happy to provide.
"You honour me, Lady Netara. I should be further honoured should His Majesty see fit to find time to attend as well. Manato, once you have completed your review of the garrison please send scouts to locate the beast and report back on the safety of bringing his Majesty on a hunt. I believe it would be... edifying for him to experience first hand what we do to those who cross Dragons. Ferala, please prepare an updated report on Satrapial finances. Muntazir [One of the Patrician or mortal Dynast bureaucrats in Kitava's personal staff, raised to Embassy 5 by her radiant brilliance], identify the elements of the local bureaucracy most amenable to modernization. Itsala, draft a list of promising avenues for new revenue."
With a gesture she indicates for the procession to rise. "Ramuron, if you have no objections, I shall take the palanquin, the better to see Kandara for myself." Despite all outward indications to the contrary, you're quite certain she doesn't care a whit for Ramuron's objections, if any.
[Pass]
"You honour me, Lady Netara. I should be further honoured should His Majesty see fit to find time to attend as well. Manato, once you have completed your review of the garrison please send scouts to locate the beast and report back on the safety of bringing his Majesty on a hunt. I believe it would be... edifying for him to experience first hand what we do to those who cross Dragons. Ferala, please prepare an updated report on Satrapial finances. Muntazir [One of the Patrician or mortal Dynast bureaucrats in Kitava's personal staff, raised to Embassy 5 by her radiant brilliance], identify the elements of the local bureaucracy most amenable to modernization. Itsala, draft a list of promising avenues for new revenue."
With a gesture she indicates for the procession to rise. "Ramuron, if you have no objections, I shall take the palanquin, the better to see Kandara for myself." Despite all outward indications to the contrary, you're quite certain she doesn't care a whit for Ramuron's objections, if any.
[Pass]
Rykon
Five Thousand Club
"Rest assured, I'm looking forward to the sport of the hunt. We'll find our mark soon enough, and I'll keep you all posted. In the meantime, I do have an inspection to conduct to see what we're working with presently. Many blessings, Kitava, Boroma, Netara. I'll see you again at the inaugural feast." Manato gives a slight polite bow and turns to one of the attendants the monarchy had in waiting to tend to Kitava's transportation. "Since you're here, the horse will do fine." He raised a hand to brush at the well-groomed mane beneath the ceremonial frippery. "This one have a name?"
[Pass]
[Pass]
D. Rex
Magic Eight Ball
[Pass]
WlfSamurai
Maelstrom Engineer
Taeran waits for her sister and the rest to move down the gang plank and onto the dock before following. She gives her husband an exasperated, yet cold look as they proceed. A look that shows he still has access to her true feelings, but is still says, "Don't fucking talk to me."
[Pass]
[Pass]
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Chowlett
Member
"Of course, my lady Satrap". Such a report would be a formality, of course; the finances were well in hand when Ferela left to accompany Kitava to her post. She'd delegate that task to an underling, and take the time to reconnect with her networks of informants. Not that she expected anything needing her attention, but it was always worth being sure.
[pass]
Session 1, Scene 2
jaydude
Five Thousand Club
Boroma smiles at Kitava's request of his mother. "I am sure my tutor will not object to me cutting my lesson short in favor of some practical experience." he says. Muntazir and Itsala meanwhile bow their heads and assure the satrap that they will have carried out her orders by the time she meets with the king and his regent.
Elsewhere, the attendant - a young woman with chestnut-brown hair - bows her head at Manato's question. "I believe this one's name is Northern Wind, my lord." she replies, a faint blush on her cheeks from having the handsome Dynast address her. From the horse's snow-white coat and light blue mane, it doesn't take much effort to guess what might have inspired the name.
Once Kitava is settled within the palanquin, and everyone else has picked out their means of transportation, the five of you embark on a procession through the city, Kitava at the head, Boroma and the other two riding behind her, clearly intended as a show of unity between king and satrap. Masses of people, some admiring or excited, others simply curious, throng the streets on either side in the hope of catching a glimpse of the new satrap, though the presence of mounted Realm soldiers and city watch prevent them from getting too close. As she travels, Kitava and the rest of her entourage notice that at first glance, Kandara already seems to be doing well; most of the people they see, even those less well-off, look reasonably well-fed, healthy and contented.
Gradually, the procession winds its way towards a great gate within a tall and immensely thick wall of stone. Boroma and Netara explain that this is the second of three encircling walls within the city (the first one enclosing the entire settlement) , with each one being built as Kandara expanded beyond the previous barrier. On each side of the gate rests a stone statue of the king at the time of the wall's construction, another figure in what appears to be artifact armor, wielding the same daiklave being carried by Boroma. The gate to the next and last wall is much the same, only with statues of a different king on either side. Clearly the Kandarans and their rulers take a great deal of pride in their previous Dragon-blooded kings.
The gates are pulled open, and the procession enters into the central area of the city, which Netara refers to as the "Dragon District". According to her, this is the area where the city-state's rulers, nobility and wealthiest citizens reside, and it shows in how different it is from the previous parts of the city; whereas the residents there had to contend with apartments, small townhouses and narrow streets, even the smallest dwellings in the Dragon District have their own walled gardens, while the largest ones are mansions that border on being small palaces, and all are interconnected via wide avenues.
Eventually, Boroma, Kitava and their respective revenues come to the Royal Palace, the largest building in the Dragon District, with its own encircling wall and moat, and a roof containing five large onion domes of gold. The sides of the road between the gate in the wall and the palace's main entrance are lined by at least a dozen stone statues, each one a previous ruler of Kandara. All but two of them are men; Netara explains that in contrast to the Realm, Kandara is more of a patriarchal society, with the eldest surviving son of the previous monarch inheriting the throne ahead of any older sisters. The pair of statues that depict women represent queens who had no surviving brothers when the previous ruler died or abdicated. Including Hasuri, most of the older statues are of warriors clad in artifact armor, with many of them wielding the daiklave that Boroma currently carries, apparently a house heirloom. The more recent statues depict far less militant rulers; they wear royal robes rather than armor and do not carry weapons, giving them an air akin to that of statesmen, rather than soldiers. Clearly the typical role of Kandara's ruler changed at some point in history.
"It was after the conquest of Snakehead in the east." explains Boroma, assuming this is bought up. "Before then, our people frequently had to contend with Lunar Anathema in the area. Now they have been pushed back, and our kings do not necessarily have to be warriors and generals if they wish to see Kandara outlive them."
"The current satrap of Snakehead will be one of the guests attending the inaugural feast this evening." says Netara. "From what I have heard, she is a daughter of the head of House Cathak, and a much respected figure on the Blessed Isle."
In front of the entrance to the palace, you see a group of House Hasuri servants stood ready to receive you, a young woman at the head of their group. Along with amber eyes, she has the Hasuri skin and black hair, and in contrast to the servants in their uniforms, she wears a sleeveless noblewoman's robe of dark-red silk, along with wristbands and a necklace of fine platinum. The palace servants clearly show deference to her, watching as she bows to Kitava and her entourage.
"Greetings, Lady Kitava. I am Hasuri Hudia." she says, giving the Air Aspect a wide grin. "I'm something of a majordomo with regards to this palace, in that I manage the vast majority of events that take place here. I currently have a magnificent inaugural dinner lined up for you and your staff, but for the moment, the servants here will be more than capable of getting you settled into your rooms at the palace."
With Kitava (and presumably Ramuron)...
D. Rex
Random Word
As befitting a satrap, her bodyguard and said bodyguard's wife, Kitava, Ramuron and Taeran are given their own suite of rooms within the palace, including two bedrooms, an en-suite bathroom, and an office with an antique desk, bookshelves containing all manner of records, and a number of comfy chairs and sofas for those with business to discuss with the satrap. Once Kitava is settled in, Netara comes knocking on the door to her office, Boroma and Janhuren in tow.
"Lady Kitava. I trust you are all settled in here?" asks Netara, the expectation being that the two of you and her son will be discussing Kandara's future.
With Manato...
Rykon
Manato is directed towards a walled encampment located on the northeastern edge of the city. Riding there on Northern Wind, he quickly takes notice of the encampment's keep, barracks area, armory, and a training ground upon which at least two dragons' (1,000 people) worth of soldiers are practicing battlefield manoeuvres under the supervision of their officers. As the Fire Aspect approaches, a man in the attire of a senior officer comes towards him on his own horse, pulling up short once he's close enough for the two to speak normally to each other.
"Greetings, Tepet Manato. I am Cathak Sanda, current acting commander of the Kandara garrison. I understand that we are now subordinate to you, though." he says, giving a crisp salute. At this close distance, Manato sees that the other man is roughly half a decade younger than him, and clean-shaven with a few strands of dark-brown hair peaking out from under his helmet.
With Ferala...
Chowlett
Much like Kitava, Ferela is given her own set of rooms near those of the satrap. As a matter of fact, they're the same ones she had during her previous tenure in Kandara. As she reacquaints herself with them, she discovers an inconspicuous piece of paper hidden under one of her bed's pillows. Were she to read it, she sees that it contains a small list - or rather a reminder - of the closest and most important members of her information network, as well as brief instructions on how she can communicate with said network. Namely, there are a handful of Hasuri servants who can be trusted to deliver written messages between the two, as well as a tea-shop within the Dragon District that can serve as a location for dead drops.
With Taeran
WlfSamurai
, do you want to have Taeran begin investigating the seedy underbelly of the city? Or do something else for the moment?
Elsewhere, the attendant - a young woman with chestnut-brown hair - bows her head at Manato's question. "I believe this one's name is Northern Wind, my lord." she replies, a faint blush on her cheeks from having the handsome Dynast address her. From the horse's snow-white coat and light blue mane, it doesn't take much effort to guess what might have inspired the name.
Once Kitava is settled within the palanquin, and everyone else has picked out their means of transportation, the five of you embark on a procession through the city, Kitava at the head, Boroma and the other two riding behind her, clearly intended as a show of unity between king and satrap. Masses of people, some admiring or excited, others simply curious, throng the streets on either side in the hope of catching a glimpse of the new satrap, though the presence of mounted Realm soldiers and city watch prevent them from getting too close. As she travels, Kitava and the rest of her entourage notice that at first glance, Kandara already seems to be doing well; most of the people they see, even those less well-off, look reasonably well-fed, healthy and contented.
Gradually, the procession winds its way towards a great gate within a tall and immensely thick wall of stone. Boroma and Netara explain that this is the second of three encircling walls within the city (the first one enclosing the entire settlement) , with each one being built as Kandara expanded beyond the previous barrier. On each side of the gate rests a stone statue of the king at the time of the wall's construction, another figure in what appears to be artifact armor, wielding the same daiklave being carried by Boroma. The gate to the next and last wall is much the same, only with statues of a different king on either side. Clearly the Kandarans and their rulers take a great deal of pride in their previous Dragon-blooded kings.
The gates are pulled open, and the procession enters into the central area of the city, which Netara refers to as the "Dragon District". According to her, this is the area where the city-state's rulers, nobility and wealthiest citizens reside, and it shows in how different it is from the previous parts of the city; whereas the residents there had to contend with apartments, small townhouses and narrow streets, even the smallest dwellings in the Dragon District have their own walled gardens, while the largest ones are mansions that border on being small palaces, and all are interconnected via wide avenues.
Eventually, Boroma, Kitava and their respective revenues come to the Royal Palace, the largest building in the Dragon District, with its own encircling wall and moat, and a roof containing five large onion domes of gold. The sides of the road between the gate in the wall and the palace's main entrance are lined by at least a dozen stone statues, each one a previous ruler of Kandara. All but two of them are men; Netara explains that in contrast to the Realm, Kandara is more of a patriarchal society, with the eldest surviving son of the previous monarch inheriting the throne ahead of any older sisters. The pair of statues that depict women represent queens who had no surviving brothers when the previous ruler died or abdicated. Including Hasuri, most of the older statues are of warriors clad in artifact armor, with many of them wielding the daiklave that Boroma currently carries, apparently a house heirloom. The more recent statues depict far less militant rulers; they wear royal robes rather than armor and do not carry weapons, giving them an air akin to that of statesmen, rather than soldiers. Clearly the typical role of Kandara's ruler changed at some point in history.
"It was after the conquest of Snakehead in the east." explains Boroma, assuming this is bought up. "Before then, our people frequently had to contend with Lunar Anathema in the area. Now they have been pushed back, and our kings do not necessarily have to be warriors and generals if they wish to see Kandara outlive them."
"The current satrap of Snakehead will be one of the guests attending the inaugural feast this evening." says Netara. "From what I have heard, she is a daughter of the head of House Cathak, and a much respected figure on the Blessed Isle."
In front of the entrance to the palace, you see a group of House Hasuri servants stood ready to receive you, a young woman at the head of their group. Along with amber eyes, she has the Hasuri skin and black hair, and in contrast to the servants in their uniforms, she wears a sleeveless noblewoman's robe of dark-red silk, along with wristbands and a necklace of fine platinum. The palace servants clearly show deference to her, watching as she bows to Kitava and her entourage.
"Greetings, Lady Kitava. I am Hasuri Hudia." she says, giving the Air Aspect a wide grin. "I'm something of a majordomo with regards to this palace, in that I manage the vast majority of events that take place here. I currently have a magnificent inaugural dinner lined up for you and your staff, but for the moment, the servants here will be more than capable of getting you settled into your rooms at the palace."
With Kitava (and presumably Ramuron)...
D. Rex
Random Word
As befitting a satrap, her bodyguard and said bodyguard's wife, Kitava, Ramuron and Taeran are given their own suite of rooms within the palace, including two bedrooms, an en-suite bathroom, and an office with an antique desk, bookshelves containing all manner of records, and a number of comfy chairs and sofas for those with business to discuss with the satrap. Once Kitava is settled in, Netara comes knocking on the door to her office, Boroma and Janhuren in tow.
"Lady Kitava. I trust you are all settled in here?" asks Netara, the expectation being that the two of you and her son will be discussing Kandara's future.
To be honest, I don't really have any ideas on what could be improved about Kandara at the moment, and I don't want Kitava to embarrass herself by ignorantly proposing things that House Hasuri has already implemented. Perhaps you could suggest ideas you had in mind in some OOC medium, and I'll consider whether or not it would make sense for them to not already be in place?
With Manato...
Rykon
Manato is directed towards a walled encampment located on the northeastern edge of the city. Riding there on Northern Wind, he quickly takes notice of the encampment's keep, barracks area, armory, and a training ground upon which at least two dragons' (1,000 people) worth of soldiers are practicing battlefield manoeuvres under the supervision of their officers. As the Fire Aspect approaches, a man in the attire of a senior officer comes towards him on his own horse, pulling up short once he's close enough for the two to speak normally to each other.
"Greetings, Tepet Manato. I am Cathak Sanda, current acting commander of the Kandara garrison. I understand that we are now subordinate to you, though." he says, giving a crisp salute. At this close distance, Manato sees that the other man is roughly half a decade younger than him, and clean-shaven with a few strands of dark-brown hair peaking out from under his helmet.
With Ferala...
Chowlett
Much like Kitava, Ferela is given her own set of rooms near those of the satrap. As a matter of fact, they're the same ones she had during her previous tenure in Kandara. As she reacquaints herself with them, she discovers an inconspicuous piece of paper hidden under one of her bed's pillows. Were she to read it, she sees that it contains a small list - or rather a reminder - of the closest and most important members of her information network, as well as brief instructions on how she can communicate with said network. Namely, there are a handful of Hasuri servants who can be trusted to deliver written messages between the two, as well as a tea-shop within the Dragon District that can serve as a location for dead drops.
With Taeran
WlfSamurai
, do you want to have Taeran begin investigating the seedy underbelly of the city? Or do something else for the moment?
Last edited:
Random Word
Three Thousand Club
It is folly to attempt to understand the backwards mores of threshold societies. A patriarchy! One of undoubtedly many outmoded traditions she would swiftly sweep aside. Once a proper system of meritocratic civic examinations was established the wiser sex would soon take their proper place. With a few commendable exceptions, men were simply too emotional and hot headed to carry out the duties of governance with the requisite steady hand.
The news the scion of House Cathak had deigned to attend her inauguration feast was a surprise, an honour, a delight, and a challenge. With a person of such quality in attendance, she would have to push her limited travelling household to its limits in preparation for this evening. Fortunately she had something of a secret weapon in that regard, and would not be given cause to lament the absence of her extensive wardrobe on the Isle.
Kitava gives Hudia a shallow bow befitting a hostess of inferior rank, "I am certain you will delight us all with your hospitality, Lady Hudia."
She whispers to the wind to carry her words to her sister's ear, wherever she is skulking, "Your duty is to gather information, not suspicion. There is nothing that attracts scrutiny and gossip faster than a Dragon who recoils from the flame. I expect to see you at the gala tonight. Socializing."
Netara enters to a scene of carefully coordinated chaos as bureaucrats and functionaries compile and deliver reports, fill newly erected shelves, organize scrolls, annotate maps, and debate policy all under the watchful eye of the small hurricane dominating half the common area of the suite, carefully cleared of furniture that might be damaged by the howling icy winds that surround Kitava as she paces back and forth, listening to briefings and rattling off an endless barrage of directives. Liberal use of paperweights and heavy scroll cases prevent accumulated paperwork from being scattered by the winds. Animate needles of verdigris brass dance through the storm, shining in the reflected light of small bursts of lightning as Berengiere weaves around Kitava sartorial wonders fit to awe even the most jaded Dynast. She had developed a reputation for elegance in the salon that was almost sufficient to counterbalance the terror inspired by her sorcerous puissance, and she wasn't about to let it slip before the singularly important guest tonight.
Kitava's eyes light up when Netara is announced, "Lady Netara, Your Majesty, thank you for giving me the honour of your presence. Please forgive any discomfort from the temperature. I am at my best in my element. The tea is hot, and I shall keep my distance. Please, present to us your most pressing problems and we shall present to you the Realm's most enlightened solutions."
The news the scion of House Cathak had deigned to attend her inauguration feast was a surprise, an honour, a delight, and a challenge. With a person of such quality in attendance, she would have to push her limited travelling household to its limits in preparation for this evening. Fortunately she had something of a secret weapon in that regard, and would not be given cause to lament the absence of her extensive wardrobe on the Isle.
Kitava gives Hudia a shallow bow befitting a hostess of inferior rank, "I am certain you will delight us all with your hospitality, Lady Hudia."
She whispers to the wind to carry her words to her sister's ear, wherever she is skulking, "Your duty is to gather information, not suspicion. There is nothing that attracts scrutiny and gossip faster than a Dragon who recoils from the flame. I expect to see you at the gala tonight. Socializing."
Netara enters to a scene of carefully coordinated chaos as bureaucrats and functionaries compile and deliver reports, fill newly erected shelves, organize scrolls, annotate maps, and debate policy all under the watchful eye of the small hurricane dominating half the common area of the suite, carefully cleared of furniture that might be damaged by the howling icy winds that surround Kitava as she paces back and forth, listening to briefings and rattling off an endless barrage of directives. Liberal use of paperweights and heavy scroll cases prevent accumulated paperwork from being scattered by the winds. Animate needles of verdigris brass dance through the storm, shining in the reflected light of small bursts of lightning as Berengiere weaves around Kitava sartorial wonders fit to awe even the most jaded Dynast. She had developed a reputation for elegance in the salon that was almost sufficient to counterbalance the terror inspired by her sorcerous puissance, and she wasn't about to let it slip before the singularly important guest tonight.
Kitava's eyes light up when Netara is announced, "Lady Netara, Your Majesty, thank you for giving me the honour of your presence. Please forgive any discomfort from the temperature. I am at my best in my element. The tea is hot, and I shall keep my distance. Please, present to us your most pressing problems and we shall present to you the Realm's most enlightened solutions."
Rykon
Five Thousand Club
"I see... this one is certainly very striking," Manato mused idly. "No doubt picked for the Satrap herself for how it suits her image I wager." The commander brushed at Northern Wind's mane and examined the bridle and reins down to the tack and saddle. He hummed with approval, a warm smile still lit on his face as he turned to address the attendant again. "Do you tend to the king's horses yourself miss? If this is the quality of steed you keep here in Kandara, I should like to see more sometime. Tell me, what is your name?"
***
Manato returned the salute, addressing Sanda with expected military decorum. "You understand rightly. I am Tepet Manato, recently appointed commander of Kandara." His borrowed steed paced slowly before coming to a stop with a satisfied huff. Manato cast an appraising glance over the man who'd served in the same position not five seconds ago as the hair caught his eye. "Hmm... You look familiar... like a cousin... You wouldn't happen to know my grandfather Cathak Torod would you? the Ashwalker? ...Ah right, I forget, we have important business to attend to." The commander dismounted and waved over a guardsman by the gate, with naught but an encouraging pat on the shoulder and the reins in hand he instructed the man to see Northern Wind returned to the palace stables.
"I'll keep the initial inspection brief. We have a beast to hunt with a taste for people. Kandaran people, as I'm sure you're aware. Not only that, I'd like a decent chance to walk off these accursed sea legs." Manato performed an exaggerated stretch, hands overhead before making a show of shaking off the relative discomfort of an extended sea voyage. "Let's get started with the garrison itself then." With that, the new commander will begin familiarizing himself with the condition of the various structures of the garrison, disposition of the rank and file, as well as the track records of existing leadership. Two dragons strong... it'd be nice if we could house two more. Perhaps in the slow seasons like winter, I can train militias for more immediate response times and 'homeland' security of a sort.
Though this was merely the first day on the new job, Manato ordered reports on the tyrant lizard regicide and the current location of the culprit. Once the wheels began to turn he could eventually make his way to give a proper appearance at the gala in novel formal attire.
***
Manato returned the salute, addressing Sanda with expected military decorum. "You understand rightly. I am Tepet Manato, recently appointed commander of Kandara." His borrowed steed paced slowly before coming to a stop with a satisfied huff. Manato cast an appraising glance over the man who'd served in the same position not five seconds ago as the hair caught his eye. "Hmm... You look familiar... like a cousin... You wouldn't happen to know my grandfather Cathak Torod would you? the Ashwalker? ...Ah right, I forget, we have important business to attend to." The commander dismounted and waved over a guardsman by the gate, with naught but an encouraging pat on the shoulder and the reins in hand he instructed the man to see Northern Wind returned to the palace stables.
"I'll keep the initial inspection brief. We have a beast to hunt with a taste for people. Kandaran people, as I'm sure you're aware. Not only that, I'd like a decent chance to walk off these accursed sea legs." Manato performed an exaggerated stretch, hands overhead before making a show of shaking off the relative discomfort of an extended sea voyage. "Let's get started with the garrison itself then." With that, the new commander will begin familiarizing himself with the condition of the various structures of the garrison, disposition of the rank and file, as well as the track records of existing leadership. Two dragons strong... it'd be nice if we could house two more. Perhaps in the slow seasons like winter, I can train militias for more immediate response times and 'homeland' security of a sort.
Though this was merely the first day on the new job, Manato ordered reports on the tyrant lizard regicide and the current location of the culprit. Once the wheels began to turn he could eventually make his way to give a proper appearance at the gala in novel formal attire.
WlfSamurai
Maelstrom Engineer
Having settled in, Taeran immediately sets about the task of security. She moves through the Palace, like a cat of prey, inspecting mantles, book cases, under tables, and even the kitchens. As she move through, she takes note of the various servants and staff: who looks suspicious or new, who reports to whom, and vulnerable staff that she could exploit, should the need arise.
But, there is a second part to her venturing through the halls and rooms. She hides weapons in obscure and hidden places. A throwing knife wedged here, a dagger slipped in there, a sap behind that. Each is a promise for violence in the right scenario. Each would be a small contingency. Added together, it made Taeran feel more secure.
Once her business is complete, she dresses down in her room and slips out the palace heading for the rough part of town. It is time she makes her presence known.
(Edit: wow typos and poor tenses. Sorry, I was tired.)
But, there is a second part to her venturing through the halls and rooms. She hides weapons in obscure and hidden places. A throwing knife wedged here, a dagger slipped in there, a sap behind that. Each is a promise for violence in the right scenario. Each would be a small contingency. Added together, it made Taeran feel more secure.
Once her business is complete, she dresses down in her room and slips out the palace heading for the rough part of town. It is time she makes her presence known.
(Edit: wow typos and poor tenses. Sorry, I was tired.)
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D. Rex
Magic Eight Ball
Ramuron didn't even bother looking at his rooms. He knew full and well that he wasn't going to stay there, a fact Taeran would no doubt be pleased with.
"Oh we both know we can count on Taeran to behave." He said under his breath in response to Kitavas suggestion to his wife. The bit of sourness to his sarcasm would not go unnoticed.
While Kitava busied herself to her bureaucratic bureaucracies, the dutiful aspect of earth remained as her servants worked around him. Their inconvenience being of inferior priority to the safety of the satrap. His version of staying out of the way was him resting in the corner of Kitava's desk, buying his idle hands by cleaning out a stubby granite pipe with a pen knife he had taken off her desk. His eyes kept on the Satrap herself. He did not flinch at any of the bitter cold winds that whipped at him every time she paced by.
Still, despite all outward appearances, he was not doing nothing. With his senses still extended outwards, he was memorizing the feel of everything around him. Familiarizing himself with footsteps of those who walked by. Identifying them based in weight and gait and force of impact. Following every vibration to map out the building in his minds eye. Learning where the walls and ceilings were the thinnest. Where there were gaps and passages may reside. Crevices where any would be thief or assassin might hide. And which sections nearby held the most traffic. The better he knew this place. The better he could protect the satrap. The more people he recognized, the easier it would be to pick out those who did not belong.
"Oh we both know we can count on Taeran to behave." He said under his breath in response to Kitavas suggestion to his wife. The bit of sourness to his sarcasm would not go unnoticed.
While Kitava busied herself to her bureaucratic bureaucracies, the dutiful aspect of earth remained as her servants worked around him. Their inconvenience being of inferior priority to the safety of the satrap. His version of staying out of the way was him resting in the corner of Kitava's desk, buying his idle hands by cleaning out a stubby granite pipe with a pen knife he had taken off her desk. His eyes kept on the Satrap herself. He did not flinch at any of the bitter cold winds that whipped at him every time she paced by.
Still, despite all outward appearances, he was not doing nothing. With his senses still extended outwards, he was memorizing the feel of everything around him. Familiarizing himself with footsteps of those who walked by. Identifying them based in weight and gait and force of impact. Following every vibration to map out the building in his minds eye. Learning where the walls and ceilings were the thinnest. Where there were gaps and passages may reside. Crevices where any would be thief or assassin might hide. And which sections nearby held the most traffic. The better he knew this place. The better he could protect the satrap. The more people he recognized, the easier it would be to pick out those who did not belong.
Chowlett
Member
Ferala nodded with satisfaction that her old rooms had been left untouched. The note under her pillow, left no doubt by one of the trusted servants whose name was itself on the list, contained nothing surprising. All the old contacts were still in place - good. Nonetheless, Ferala memorised the details, then - lacking a handy fireplace, and mistrustful of such methods in any case (how often would a fragment of ash still be legible?) - she carefully and methodically ate it.
Her actual job well in hand, it was time to attend to her pretend job. Making her way to the Office of the First Underclerk of the Treasury, she collected the financial report which had already been prepared in the certain knowledge that the new Satrap would request it; then made her way up to Kitava's chambers. Knocking deferentially on the door, she waited for the localised windstorm to notice her; presented the document; and continued waiting on the Satrap's dignified pleasure for any questions that may arise.
Her actual job well in hand, it was time to attend to her pretend job. Making her way to the Office of the First Underclerk of the Treasury, she collected the financial report which had already been prepared in the certain knowledge that the new Satrap would request it; then made her way up to Kitava's chambers. Knocking deferentially on the door, she waited for the localised windstorm to notice her; presented the document; and continued waiting on the Satrap's dignified pleasure for any questions that may arise.
jaydude
Five Thousand Club
With Kitava, Ramuron and Ferala...
Chowlett
D. Rex
Random Word
The three cadet Dragon-blooded have arrived shortly after Ferala, and they all look mildly perturbed at the sight of the wind blowing about within the room, but after a few seconds they shrug and accept it as just a little quirk of the satrap's, and Boroma and Netara take seats on a couch in front of Kitava, Netara observing the other woman's form as she does so.
"Do not apologize for making things more comfortable for yourself, Lady Satrap. These are your rooms, after all, and we are not that far from the South." Netara assures the Air Aspect. "As for your offer, I fear I must apologize in advance. I am sure you are more than eager to help, and would be more than capable of solving any issue we presented to you, but at the moment we cannot think of any serious problems of that nature."
"My mother is a Water Aspect of high skill when it comes to matters of state." says Boroma. "Before she was my regent, she frequently offered good advice to my father."
With Manato...
Rykon
The woman's blush gets a little more pronounced at Manato's questions, as if she's not too used to having a Dynast be this informal with her. "I am indeed one of the stablehands at the Royal Palace, my lord. My name is Shujayra; it means 'sapling' in Flametongue." she replies. "May I ask why you wish to know?"
***
Sanda gives a shake of his head at Manato's question about Torod. "I'm afraid not. He's a very distant relative of mine. We might have briefly spoken once at a gala a few years ago, but nothing more than that."
He accompanies Manato during his inspection, answering any questions asked of him to the best of his ability. During his check, Manato sees that roughly half of the troops currently on active duty in Kandara are from House Ragara, holdovers from the time of Kitava's predecessor. The other half are locals, Sanda explaining that the Kandaran people have a long history of fighting against the hordes of both the Fair Folk and the Lunar Anathema. Victories in these conflicts - during which Dragon-blooded Hasuri champions have fought often on the front lines - have done a great deal for Kandaran national pride, and alongside the Immaculate Order's longtime presence within the region have ensured a steady supply of fresh recruits willing to risk their lives on the battlefield. As for turning them into proper soldiers, Manato sees that there is already a good amount of relevant infrastructure in place, with skilled armorers and blacksmiths on hand to outfit and arm the new troops, and officers with the skill and experience to train them up and make them ready for combat.
***
Once the inspection is over, and the two Dynasts are sat down together in the encampment's keep, Sanda elaborates upon the Tyrant Lizard that took the life of Boroma's father.
"Two years ago, those overgrown lizards had been picking off farmers and livestock within the region. The king felt they were due for a culling, so I and a number of his Dragon-blooded rode out alongside him in order to deal with them. We were making good progress in our hunt, but then one of the beasts got the jump on us." he explains. "Steelscale, we later called it, on account of its grey skin. Most likely this was a mutation from some Wyld pocket left behind after the Balorian Crusade."
"Whatever the case," he continues, "...it managed to scatter our hunting party and grab the king from his horse, and before anyone could stop it, it bit the man's head clean off. We managed to regroup and force the beast into retreat shortly afterwards, but it evaded our attempts to pursue it, and it hasn't been seen in the region since. Some of House Hasuri's Dragon-blooded naturally attempted to track it down, but they never had any luck, meaning that as far as we know, Steelscale's still out there."
With Taeran...
WlfSamurai
Taeran's efforts to find the rough part of the city take her back to the area around the harbour. So often is this the haunt of low-paid and uncultured dockyard laborers, to say nothing of sailors looking to let loose after long periods away from land, with the result that alcohol, intoxicants and sexual release are cheap, and the majority of the local nobility have little reason to hang around or care. The same area around Kandara's harbour is a downplayed example, but it's an example nevertheless, and thus a haven for criminal types looking to avoid the law's wrath.
The current prosperity of Kandara - as well as the benevolence of Boroma and his mother - means that few there are forced into dishonest living, but there's never anything to stop people from acting out of greed, or resentment of those who got a bigger slice of the pie. Thus, despite the best efforts of the boy king to prevent such a thing, Kandara does have its own criminal element, with the presence of the city watch culling all but the most cunning, resourceful and subtle of outlaws. Two of these, a pair of men with the unmistakable scars of back-alley fights, soon confront Taeran as she walks down a narrow alleyway of the harbour area, blocking her in on either side.
"Hey. You should know that this is a dangerous place to be for a woman on their own. A lot of unsavoury types around here." he says in a casual-sounding voice. It sounds convincing, but Taeran gets the distinct impression that both men are sizing her up.
[OOC: I understand that Taeran's dressed down, but is she visibly carrying her Black Jade Powerbow on her?]
Chowlett
D. Rex
Random Word
The three cadet Dragon-blooded have arrived shortly after Ferala, and they all look mildly perturbed at the sight of the wind blowing about within the room, but after a few seconds they shrug and accept it as just a little quirk of the satrap's, and Boroma and Netara take seats on a couch in front of Kitava, Netara observing the other woman's form as she does so.
"Do not apologize for making things more comfortable for yourself, Lady Satrap. These are your rooms, after all, and we are not that far from the South." Netara assures the Air Aspect. "As for your offer, I fear I must apologize in advance. I am sure you are more than eager to help, and would be more than capable of solving any issue we presented to you, but at the moment we cannot think of any serious problems of that nature."
"My mother is a Water Aspect of high skill when it comes to matters of state." says Boroma. "Before she was my regent, she frequently offered good advice to my father."
With Manato...
Rykon
The woman's blush gets a little more pronounced at Manato's questions, as if she's not too used to having a Dynast be this informal with her. "I am indeed one of the stablehands at the Royal Palace, my lord. My name is Shujayra; it means 'sapling' in Flametongue." she replies. "May I ask why you wish to know?"
***
Sanda gives a shake of his head at Manato's question about Torod. "I'm afraid not. He's a very distant relative of mine. We might have briefly spoken once at a gala a few years ago, but nothing more than that."
He accompanies Manato during his inspection, answering any questions asked of him to the best of his ability. During his check, Manato sees that roughly half of the troops currently on active duty in Kandara are from House Ragara, holdovers from the time of Kitava's predecessor. The other half are locals, Sanda explaining that the Kandaran people have a long history of fighting against the hordes of both the Fair Folk and the Lunar Anathema. Victories in these conflicts - during which Dragon-blooded Hasuri champions have fought often on the front lines - have done a great deal for Kandaran national pride, and alongside the Immaculate Order's longtime presence within the region have ensured a steady supply of fresh recruits willing to risk their lives on the battlefield. As for turning them into proper soldiers, Manato sees that there is already a good amount of relevant infrastructure in place, with skilled armorers and blacksmiths on hand to outfit and arm the new troops, and officers with the skill and experience to train them up and make them ready for combat.
The information Manato gets from the inspection is basically how Sanctity of Merits is going to apply to his Command Merit. Essentially he has a loyal populace from which he can draw fresh and loyal recruits if need be, and the infrastructure necessary to quickly and efficiently turn them into capable soldiers. So even after the Great Houses start to pull back from the Threshold, Manato will always have the means to replenish his troop numbers and keep them around the mark specified by his Command rating. Of course, if he's seen to be needlessly squandering the lives of his troops, that's going to cause him problems.
***
Once the inspection is over, and the two Dynasts are sat down together in the encampment's keep, Sanda elaborates upon the Tyrant Lizard that took the life of Boroma's father.
"Two years ago, those overgrown lizards had been picking off farmers and livestock within the region. The king felt they were due for a culling, so I and a number of his Dragon-blooded rode out alongside him in order to deal with them. We were making good progress in our hunt, but then one of the beasts got the jump on us." he explains. "Steelscale, we later called it, on account of its grey skin. Most likely this was a mutation from some Wyld pocket left behind after the Balorian Crusade."
"Whatever the case," he continues, "...it managed to scatter our hunting party and grab the king from his horse, and before anyone could stop it, it bit the man's head clean off. We managed to regroup and force the beast into retreat shortly afterwards, but it evaded our attempts to pursue it, and it hasn't been seen in the region since. Some of House Hasuri's Dragon-blooded naturally attempted to track it down, but they never had any luck, meaning that as far as we know, Steelscale's still out there."
With Taeran...
WlfSamurai
Taeran's efforts to find the rough part of the city take her back to the area around the harbour. So often is this the haunt of low-paid and uncultured dockyard laborers, to say nothing of sailors looking to let loose after long periods away from land, with the result that alcohol, intoxicants and sexual release are cheap, and the majority of the local nobility have little reason to hang around or care. The same area around Kandara's harbour is a downplayed example, but it's an example nevertheless, and thus a haven for criminal types looking to avoid the law's wrath.
The current prosperity of Kandara - as well as the benevolence of Boroma and his mother - means that few there are forced into dishonest living, but there's never anything to stop people from acting out of greed, or resentment of those who got a bigger slice of the pie. Thus, despite the best efforts of the boy king to prevent such a thing, Kandara does have its own criminal element, with the presence of the city watch culling all but the most cunning, resourceful and subtle of outlaws. Two of these, a pair of men with the unmistakable scars of back-alley fights, soon confront Taeran as she walks down a narrow alleyway of the harbour area, blocking her in on either side.
"Hey. You should know that this is a dangerous place to be for a woman on their own. A lot of unsavoury types around here." he says in a casual-sounding voice. It sounds convincing, but Taeran gets the distinct impression that both men are sizing her up.
[OOC: I understand that Taeran's dressed down, but is she visibly carrying her Black Jade Powerbow on her?]
Random Word
Three Thousand Club
Alright, I'm going to take your lack of comment on my plan to juggle the mechanics around to make my opening influence roll a group influence roll (Because spending 15 hits on influencing one person is really hard - it's hard enough to come up with ways to spend those hits on two people!) as permission, so that's 14 successes split across Boroma and Netara. I'll spend them on: 1 Minor [Respect], 1 Minor [Trust], 1 Minor [Awe], 1 Minor ["I have faith in Kitava's ability."], 1 Minor ["I believe Kitava will significantly improve the fortunes of House Hasuri."], 1 Minor ["House Hasuri has the full confidence and support of House Ragara."], 1 ["Kitava has the full confidence and support of House Ragara, and her favour is valuable"]. 7 successes spent on each of them for a total of 14.
Kitava watches the Hasuri reaction as they enter and internally is pleased to note they do not exhibit the slightest discomfort at Berengiere's presence. Outside the family it could be so tiresome to deal with the irrational fears of the ignorant and superstitious.
She gestures for Ferala to approach and beckons with one hand to summon the proffered report into her hands on a gust of wind, scanning it quickly as she listens to Boroma and Netara. She arches one eyebrow but her smile widens as she looks up, "The Dragons were generous in apportioning wisdom in your family. I am pleased. I prefer to begin from a base of stability and popular support. Reform is like a storm - it can be disruptive and trying, but it clears out old weak growth and outmoded obstacles to more vibrant new growth. A healthy forest tolerates it best, and most quickly reaches new heights of vitality. Allow me then to present to you a vision for a brighter and more prosperous future for House Hasuri and all of her subjects."
"Thank you, Ferala. I understand you must be busy. Personally delivering your reports is unnecessary, but while you are here, please, make yourself comfortable," she says brusquely, gesturing at the couch, "It will be good for you to be aware of coming changes."
She pauses momentarily to collect her thoughts, the winds swirling around her slowing only to redouble their intensity as she launches into her presentation, "The sale of key positions is a lucrative source of income for House Hasuri and useful for cultivating the support of those of wealth and breeding, especially where the titles are heritable, but it limits administrative efficiency, accumulates bureaucratic dead weight, and stifles innovation. By instituting an tried and true system of enlightened civic examinations for the selection and appointment of officials from all branches of the administration, we can inculcate a culture of meritocratic excellence, but I propose we go further."
As her excitement builds her words come faster, her eyes are lit by periodic tiny flashes of lightning, and the winds swirling around her accelerate, only serving to punctuate her words and carry them to the ears of her audience. As she speaks assistants periodically add to a growing pile of scrolls bearing reports, supporting documents, extensive analyses, revenue projections, and supplementary materials to the low tables beside Boroma and Netara at a rate that could only be matched by an essence fuelled reader. "The Varangians consult the stars in assigning every member of their society a caste and role. In this they make a crucial mistake: They are staffing terrestrial bureaucracies, not celestial. The ancient lessons in geomancy we have carefully cultivated since the time of the Shogunate teach us that everything can, and should, be aligned with the five elements. I have devised a method by which we can test the elemental affinity of every applicant, and so properly sort them into the role best suited to them."
She conjures a scale model of the city crafted of clouds of sparkling frost in the air around her, deftly reshaping and rearranging it with her hands as she speaks, "By aligning the functions of these new administrative centres with the extant geomantic flows of the city, strengthened with relatively modest changes to its layout, we can significantly improve efficiency and harmony. Once this is complete, we can extend the system of examinations and elemental affinity testing to every aspect of society, and embark on significantly more ambitious geomantic sculpting projects to restore the ancient meridians the city was once centred around when first established. The glories of the Shogunate -" no need to alarm the unenlightened with discussion of the Realm Before "- are within reach for those learned and ambitious enough to seize them."
She pauses for effect as she looks up at her audience. "I expect you are now asking yourself how we shall pay for all of this with a significant revenue stream for House Hasuri eliminated," her smile widens. "Please, allow me to introduce Berengiere," she gestures at the powerful demon putting the finishing touches on her outfit for the evening around her as she speaks, "One of the most potent spirits in Creation, a patron of artisans and connoisseur of beauty in artistry and craft whose aid and blessings will prove invaluable. I believe her work speaks for itself," she gestures at her outfit. "I have studied the mercantile enterprises of Kandara, the crafts of her artisans, and the livelihoods of her ladies and lords. I observe the all too common dilemma of whether to turn rural lands to grazing for cloth, farming for feed and food, or forest for fuel and construction. I believe we can resolve this dilemma in a way most profitable for both our Houses, with more than enough besides to fund my ambitious plans for infrastructure improvements. By breeding elementally aspected sheep, and extending the geomantic engineering out into the countryside, we can give Kandara's artisans the materials from which to produce fine textiles with remarkable properties. From fire-aspected sheep whose wool burns hot and long in forges and hearths to replace firewood, to water aspected wool that purifies liquids strained through it, to wood aspected wool resplendent with rare and precious dyes, we can take Kandara's already well known reputation for fine weavers and turn them into the envy of the Realm." She doesn't mention the air aspected sheep. They would undoubtedly produce wool fit for fine sails and perhaps even cooling foodstuffs in the holds of ships, but she fears they would simply fly over enclosures and be terribly difficult to herd without - perhaps she could gift sheepdogs with flight to keep up with them? She makes a mental note to return to that later.
"Once the new civic administration is complete, I have prepared proposals for rationalizing judicial and administrative districts outside the city, please peruse the maps at your leisure..."
So Kitava has rattled off who knows how many Ventures here, some Sorcerous and some Leadership/Act of Governance. She's going to embark on as many of them as inhumanly possible, and likely make a lot of people very upset in the process as she upends every system she deems insufficiently efficient. Whenever it's appropriate, let me know what she should roll.
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WlfSamurai
Maelstrom Engineer
Taeran can’t help but smile. She had been stuck on a ship too long with stuffy people talking about conceptual things. This is where the work is done. In the physical, with hands and weapons, not words. One idiotic thug at a time. She gives them ample time to look her over. They would consider her small frame and make the mistake of underestimating her. They had already made a similar mistake in calling out her sex—as if that had anything to do with it.
“Oh yes,” she replies in mock-desperation. “I’m scared. Do you know how I can get home.” She slips her hands into the false pockets of her over-shirt. Easier to access the many knives within.
“Oh yes,” she replies in mock-desperation. “I’m scared. Do you know how I can get home.” She slips her hands into the false pockets of her over-shirt. Easier to access the many knives within.
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Rykon
Five Thousand Club
"Why?" Manato chuckled as if the answer should be obvious. "Because you're important, Shujayra. War, trade, travel, agriculture... various professions and commodities depend upon those with the heart and talent to care for the creatures that carry society on their backs every day. You are responsible for this magnificent horse. One so splendid as to be the envy of kings and princes. Don't you think that's pretty cool?" The commander raised a hand to her chin, prompting her to meet his gaze. "Listen... I, Satrap Kitava, the whole Realm, we all need people like you. Especially to supply the garrison. We'll be counting on stablehands to provide us with plenty of hardy, tenacious steeds." He smiled and turned to give Northern Wind a gentle pat as he made sure the saddle was secure. "Besides that, you serve at the palace of the king do you not?" Manato placed his foot in the stirrup and carefully heaved himself into the saddle. "Speaking of, I hope you're able to participate in the festivities this week. Until next time, don't feel bad to take pride in how valuable your work is." With that, he waved farewell and urged Northern Wind toward the garrison.
***
The commander digested the report in silence for a moment before speaking. "So, to make sure I understand correctly." Manato started rubbing his eyes in frustration. "A pack of Exalts was culling overgrown beasts successfully when an abnormal specimen suddenly ambushed you despite its immense stature and all but routed a force that had been doing well up until it stepped on the field. Current speculation is that it has some Wyld influence upon it. Since then, it has fled the scene and efforts to track the beast have failed with no sightings of it?" He stood up after recounting his interpretation of the facts, the implications potentially troublesome but unspoken for now. "The Satrap is already interested in taking Steelscale's life swiftly, I'll relay this to her this evening. Assuming this beast does have some abnormal influence upon it, I will commission whatever astronomers may serve or respond to the requests to the court to determine if it has generated an anomaly we can identify. Until then, I want you to coordinate a scouting venture in cooperation with any settlers on the fringes. We need a complete story of all Tyrant Lizard sightings from the time when the hunt was decided to present. We have a great mystery on our hands here Sanda, and I'm sure none of the hunting party nor our King wish for this indignity to stand much longer. Until further notice, locating our mark is your top priority. Dismissed." He ordered in a grave tone. This was a cleanup job and not the time for a pep talk. Mending morale and the reputation of the Princes of the Earth would be an effort for another time with more solid facts in his grasp.
***
The commander digested the report in silence for a moment before speaking. "So, to make sure I understand correctly." Manato started rubbing his eyes in frustration. "A pack of Exalts was culling overgrown beasts successfully when an abnormal specimen suddenly ambushed you despite its immense stature and all but routed a force that had been doing well up until it stepped on the field. Current speculation is that it has some Wyld influence upon it. Since then, it has fled the scene and efforts to track the beast have failed with no sightings of it?" He stood up after recounting his interpretation of the facts, the implications potentially troublesome but unspoken for now. "The Satrap is already interested in taking Steelscale's life swiftly, I'll relay this to her this evening. Assuming this beast does have some abnormal influence upon it, I will commission whatever astronomers may serve or respond to the requests to the court to determine if it has generated an anomaly we can identify. Until then, I want you to coordinate a scouting venture in cooperation with any settlers on the fringes. We need a complete story of all Tyrant Lizard sightings from the time when the hunt was decided to present. We have a great mystery on our hands here Sanda, and I'm sure none of the hunting party nor our King wish for this indignity to stand much longer. Until further notice, locating our mark is your top priority. Dismissed." He ordered in a grave tone. This was a cleanup job and not the time for a pep talk. Mending morale and the reputation of the Princes of the Earth would be an effort for another time with more solid facts in his grasp.
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