State of Esshar

[Dreamspeaker]

The time of duels is over.

Dornar has been slain in deadly duel against High Lord Basil.

For a while after Dornar's death, the High Lord was accepting any other potential challengers, weeding out those that could be deemed as disobedient, as those that could potentially avenge the ex-High Lord that has fallen in battle to protect Osrona. The fire roars across Esshar and blood turns rivers red, even now after war, and it seems that the new High Lord takes a different approach.

"My claim has been contested."

"But none have defeated me."

"Yet, I was quick to find what an absolute wreck of a kingdom Ilburg has become. Is this what you people praised? A single gang running rampant to take upon all riches while the rest of you are left starved, without purpose?"

"No more. The lack of purpose ends today."

"We will construct the Wonders of beauty unmatched, tapping upon the wisdom of the ancestors and stars alike. We will restore the glory of Njorun upon Esshar, as our ancestors had once claimed it in the past. The Rhoynur culture will be a prominent one, as it was always meant to be, and those standing in our way will be put down quickly."

"The Rhoynish scattered across Esshar are encouraged to either join Ilburg or Alabastre, lest they find themselves left aside in the wake of their kin. Do not make the same mistake twice - as some have done in the past, joining our enemy rather than their family."

"Because there won't be a third chance."

Key points to be noted:
• It seems that Ilburg is turning more and more militarized by the day. The core of army still remains focused on guerrilla warfare and hit-and-run tactics, lacking vast numbers that are necessary for direct confrontation.
• Rumors speak of legendary Leonaus Grimmore in possession, soon to be used in future works.
• Kofe, Basil's clan-brother, has been appointed the right hand man when it comes to dealings in Ilburg.
• The Rhoynish of Esshar are cordially invited to rejoin their kin, either in Ilburg or Alabastre. Those that refuse to join are viewed with scrutiny and distaste, deemed no longer part of the Rhoynur nation.
• It seems that artificers, spirit specialists and cosmic magic users are sought after. But for what?
• Funds are being further raised, both for restoration & expansion of Ilburg. The rumors speak of docks - would that imply expeditions?
• The gate-link is being spoken about, one that could connect Alabastre and Ilburg.
• Non-Rhoynish are accepted within Ilburg as well. For whatever purpose, it seems that the newly appointed High Lord turns more warriors to his side.

[Chance]

1741 AC

"A man is only as great as his ambition." - Garljing, Sagas of Thorgil

• The most notable change in the northern kingdom was the deaths of Dragonlord Rinn and Dragonlord Magne, with Sythaeryn Vartuul, victorous in single combat and his claim, ascending to the rank of Dragonlord thereafter. His dragon, Emriss, delivered the killing blow and fed upon the fresh corpse of the former Dragonlord. Rinn was slain by the notorious criminal Mihalis, rumored descendant of the Warlord Sajid, the murderer of the woman's husband. Shortly following these events, Magne's family (Lynette, her wife, and her daughter) tragically committed suicide in their home, discovered by the Therian Yevon. These duels were overseen by the wisened, eldest of the Fireblooded, Dun Task, who proclaimed the ascension legitimate, and there was no contest from the other present Dragonlord, Khione, throughout the proceedings.
  

• The newly anointed Dragonlord immediately restated his plans to those present, his sword still red with blood: The Therian mountains will be the perfect staging ground for campaigns into the east, where the riches of Barsburg and the lost Essharan lands await them, a glorious expedition that'll give their young the opportunity to make a name for themselves- looking out rather than in. There are many key sights between their current point and the edge of the world, from Theria to the shadow lands. This plan was fully backed by the Coalition prior to the duel, with Asta and Finley promising ample funding and men to Sythaeryn from the spoils of the Osronan war, and is now grounded further.
  
  
• Dragonlord Khione embarks on an expedition into the tundra in search of the rumored wyrm, to pay tribute to the ice dragon. She recently obtained her position following a battle against the drakanite Zion who was also vying for the spot. (OOC: Tonight at 7PM EST, contact them at ThatOtherGirl#0018 if attending interests you!)
  
  
• With the aid of Myllenoris's newly appointed diplomat, the Teraphim Agate, the Dragonlords call for a leader summit while stating that half of the signature bearers on the old agreement are now dead. Given how busy everyone is, when this will happen is unsure, but the country's stability surely depends on it.
  
  
• A public notice is put out that Theria will be cracking down on the flood of Sylavanum, a toxic drug that hooks a person for life with the false promise of bliss. Past leadership seemed to turn a blind eye to this and now so many young are snorting the golden powder, losing years of their life for a temporary high... (OOC: If you sell it in your store, the goods will be confisicated - Shady dealings on the street are suggested instead!)
  

• The Therian factory continues its work, on a protoype pilotable golem suit similar to those in Magnolia and Barsburg, with its own Essharan twist. There's also the rumor of the unofficial promise of rare materials from the expeditions to come.
  

[Notyel]

1742AC

“And here we stay.”

"Maltziel? Forgives him..?"

 

"I don't stand here for Maltziel's will. Alexander, Del -- they moved with faith that Maltzlel would back his claim. That The Petrakis were blessed, that he could not fail."

 

"'Do not waver August, Osrona has not fallen, and it will not fall.' "

 

"What a fool he was. If he was the chosen savior? No amount of forgiveness will correct his failures. He will not ever grow into the Crown which was handed to him. So no, on behalf of the thousands who died -- I do not forgive Alexander. The blood is on his hands, Osrona fell for his pride. How will I handle this?"

 

"I'll have him pay for what he's done, despite any forgiveness. He has lost, he is in a corner. He bides his time until he faces the true judgement of Helheim. He is a failure, and it cost us everything. There is no forgiveness for him."

-August Lux Astor

-

♓︎ You can now join the Osrona Discord server at https://discord.gg/8nHEUK8

♓︎ Early in the year, as the dust settled, Osrona received something of an unwelcome visitor. Proclaiming those who lived within the city to be sheep, Tiernay is reported to have attacked the Stellus and his wife, before being forced back. Tiernay joins Alexander and Del in being banished from Osrona and Arrest on sight. It is also reminded that abetting assault within Osrona is against the law, and may be charged in the future.

♓︎ The process of rebuilding within Osrona goes steadily. The blood from the battle between the Petrakis Dynasty and the Coalition has begun to be cleaned up, much less covering the city then before. While rubble remains in many places, it is steadily being unloaded and removed from the city as construction goes on.

♓︎ A departure from the ‘pure’ form of Celestialism has taken place within the religious centers of Osrona. The Church of Star, Scorch, and Spirit, is now searching for members, maintaining worship and following of all deities that bring good, and seeking to bring knowledge as well as truth to the world. This Church has also adopted the moniker of The Church of Three, or Eastern Celestialism. The biggest departure, however, is the belief that the Petrakis Dynasty has no special place within it's book after the loss of their divine right. 

-

♓︎ To the west, it is said that flames flicker across the wooden bridge. Travelers report signs of movement, and the Vigilant is still recruiting, meaning that guards in that area are sparse. Something is out there. Something coming soon. (Nysea's bridge attack is coming Sunday)

-

♓︎ A recruitment drive for the newly established Vigilant Watch has taken place in the center of the city. Held by August lux Astor, and Ella Garcia, the crowd present was in agreement. The words ring out within the city. The Petrakis Dynasty is not forgiven by the people.

-

♓︎ The city of Osrona would like to congratulate Ro on becoming Champion of Esshar, as well as its own Walter Docro on placing in third during the Grand Tournament.

-

[Jumpy]

1743 AC





"I hope the truth of your fortunes with outweighs an eternity shackled in Helheim."

The witch Eureka Edwards, also known as Noriko, has been slain in battle against Lorespeaker Kofe.

"Many people doubted me during the last summit. My position on witchcraft may not be the traditional one, and will remain as such.

I will not lie. Noriko came to me seeking refuge from the world, intending on granting favors and helping me in my projects should I be to protect him and his beloved. He spoke of creating an object able to detect witches with his help. I offered him a stay in Ilburg's jail for the Coalition to judge that offer, believing the world would be wise enough to accept such an opportunity.

Unfortunately, Noriko's heart could not trust me, or the rest of the world.

He died a sick man, leaving behind a wounded lover.

Those who believed I would hesitate when it came to taking action are welcome to present proper apologies for not believing in me.
Yes. I'm talking about you, Finley."

Following the death of the witch, Ilburg's Overseer brings forth a few points to note:

• The revival of Ilburg is heard of far and wide!
  
• With the death of Noriko, the Lorespeaker asks the world to reconsider Blyze's status as a criminal, for the source of their crime is now gone.
  
• Following the bounty put on Mihalis Lovain, a push for the occultist to be cleared of his crimes is made. The reason for amnesty being cited as "Occult Madness".
  
• Rumors of Kofe working on a method to lessen the effects of the aforementioned madness circulate around the world.
  
• Talk of an incredibly successful ritual in Alabastre is given by the few residents of Ilburg who participated, praising Queen Mars' ingenuity.
  

[Notyel]

1743AC

“DEATH TO TYRANTS! POWER TO THE PEOPLE!”

-Yersin

"AT ATTENTION, YOU LOUTS! DON'T BACK DOWN AGAINST ROYALIST SCUM!"

"Fuckin' bastards didn't do enough leadin' th'city to ruin in the first place, now they have to try and cause more destruction?! KILL THEIR OWN COUNTRY MEN?!"

"Stop them here, lads! Keep New Os free! Fer the people! Not fer some EGOTISTICAL MANICAL GOD KING!"

"DEATH TO TYRANTS! POWER TO THE PEOPLE!"

"THIS CITY IS OURS. IT BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE. ONLY THEY CAN DECIDE WHO RULES IT!"

-Yersin

-

♓︎ You can now join the Osrona Discord server at https://discord.gg/8nHEUK8

-

♓︎ The Baleford Bridge, a symbol of the peace of the Coalition, and a route often traveled between cities was assaulted by a black cloaked army. Fighting against them, the army of the Shimmering city would force back this army, their members attempting to stay anonymous, but it was not to be. The Lighbringer, Lloyd Duranges, was captured during this assault, and executed, a warning to the forces that would try to beset the city that it will be defended if attacked, and those that would harm the Osronan people will be judged for the actions they do.

-

♓︎ The Constitution of Esshar has been accepted and signed by Osrona.  For now, it stands as the only set of ruling laws in the city, however it is said that a new set of laws is being worked upon to be introduced in the future.

-

♓︎ Over the past year, Osrona continues to be rebuilt. Parts of the wall formerly destroyed have been repaired, and the Church is now once more open to the public.

♓︎ Within the halls of the Church of Three, a Sermon took place over the topic of excess. It is said that a great many things occurred at this Sermon, including violence, the reveal of a Witch and their associate, and the arrest of a young Barsburg boy. An official statement has been released to the public concerning this event.

-

♓︎ Osrona would like to warn its inhabitants that there have been several Demon and Witch sightings. It appears that dark magic has begun to bloom outside the safety of the city, and members are advised to be careful when setting out into the Wilderness. To aid with releasing information on exactly what dangers are out there, Esshar's Most Wanted is now accepting submissions on current threats.

[Tattles]

MYLLENORIS
-1744-

With a return from the Valedepths, rumor spreads that the Vale itself has begun to heal once again. The plant and animal life within, for those fortunate enough to see it, is blooming into an ecosystem set right, blessed once more by the spirits who call the mysterious grove their home.

And yet, the High Lord is said to already be preparing the Valeborne for another delve...

Couriers are often seen running to and from Myllenoris, some traveling to the north, others to the east, and curiously, a handful toward Nysea itself. It is no hidden secret that some communication, albeit strained, has begun between the forest kingdom and the refugees who fled to the west.

In regards to the capture and execution of the witch Eureka Edwards, the High Lord had this much to say:

Myllenoris recognizes Kofe for doing his part in culling the plague that is rotting Esshar within the shadows and hidden spaces the light not dare touch.

With more and more reports of roaming demons within the countryside, all are advised to travel and proceed with caution and in groups, or at the very least pairs.

Barsburg is at our borders, and the Coven continues to grow in power.

Now more than ever we must find it within ourselves to fend off against the greater threats and storms that would force our home into disarray and chaos.

(Finn Ghede)

And though the Teraphim kingdom had much to rejoice in, it was not brought about without a price...

The canopies of Myllenoris were said to curl into autumn colors at the turn of spring, as even the natural world came to mourn the fall of one of the most beloved of their own.

Kalina Seira-Lovain succumbed to the wounds she suffered at the hands of the monstrous beasts that waited within the Valedepths. She is survived by her husband Rolim Seira.

In honor of her passing, Myllenoris' ordinarily vibrant and lush green forests will remain red, pink, and orange for one year.

--

• Myllenoris makes preparations to join the Coalition's efforts in fighting against Barsburg. Given the Vale has been healed, Valeborne are sent to Theria to offer what help they can in readying the joint forces there.
  
• The Vale remains sealed, despite its mending.
  
• For Walter Docro's help within the Valedepths, Myllenoris has offered to aid in any upcoming expedition Osrona may undertake in the coming years.
  

[Notyel]

1747AC

Messaris' farmlands would be fertile. An abundance of crops would easily be grown for all that tried. The animals that were raised would be healthy once again, even those who seemed to be on the verge of death. 

-

Throughout the innermost parts of the city the landscape would burst out with life. It was like the siege of Osrona had never happened in the first place and in fact, it might even be better now...

-

And yet there were the needy in Sudsbury. The long forgotten part of Osrona. Neglected, forgotten, but not by Asena. Bushes with berries would grow for them to pick, the dirty water would become purified. The help they needed had been given. 

-

For that was the blessing Asena would bestow for those who go through her trials. 

-

And maybe, just maybe, Osrona could go back to normal once again.

-

♓︎ Walter Dorco has become the Commander of the Vigilant, and the second member of the leading Triumvirate of Osrona. Serving as the leader of the military faction within the city, it is stated that enlistments have been going much smoother than before.

-

♓︎  The Election has come to an end! In a race between Malia, Tieru, and Jack, votes for all candidates came in, but the Elected has been named as none other than Osrona’s own Malia Arsali. It was said to be a race filled both with speeches but also defamation as some people took a more direct approach towards the candidates they did not wish to see elected.

-

♓︎ The Elected made an Address to Osrona, as well as answers being made to the questions of those around. A transcript of this occasion was posted to the front of the Church of Three for those interested in reading it.

-

♓︎ It is stated that tensions with Nysea have been running high, causing an altercation between Walter Docro and Rolim in 1745 AC. It is said during this altercation, Rolim was defeated, the Champion of Esshar losing a hand after attacking a citizen of Osrona, and Nyseans being issued a ban from entering the Shimmering City.

-

♓︎ Osrona’s actions against the Coven continue, from appearances at the fall of the meteor, to the death of one of the three Doppelgangers, the Wraith of Pericles by the hand of Commander Walter Docro. Demons, Witches, and Mimics beware.

-

♓︎  It is said that life has returned to the city of Osrona, plant life growing more vibrant within its walls. An expedition during 1744 AC to a temple of Asena took place, and a boon was retrieved from within, restoring the wildlife from the city, and bringing it back even further from it’s decimated appearance after it fell. 

-

♓︎ The Osronan Republic's Constitution has been formalized, and revisions to it’s legal code are fully underway now that a full triumvirate has been formed. Hopes are that this will bring more law to the mostly lawless city.

[Sanguine415]

Theria: 1747

After a convention before the noble statue of Garljing in Theria’s square, the wizened elder statesman of the Fireblooded Dun Task would issue a public conference in Theria for a series of announcements, the one hundred and ten year old practically dead clown having not taken this particular auditory stage in a good sixty seven years.

“Greetings and salutations citizens of Theria. Times have changed. Theria was possessed by an illness, and the cure was nothing less than annihilation of the element that orchestrated its sickness. The costs of this were high, and the death of my beloved daughter, the dragonlord Rinn still weighs as a heavy shadow upon the city. But with the end of the Kriemhilds, the death of the nightmarish Lynette and her terror, so Theria moves forward to and leaves its ills behind.”

An ancient flyer sits upon the written recollection of the announcement from 1680, an offer from Slick Sicks and his bathing emporium regarding nothing less that certain degeneracy.

“The Barsburg front goes well, Dragonlord Sythaeryn’s promise of spearheaded conflict has not been empty posturing. The front changes by the day, the no man’s zone of ash, glass, and molten blood is thick and deep, but they will gain no ground in the north as long as we Therians stand stall. We will never be slaves.”

Another advert for Slick Sicks Bathing Emporium shows what appears to be a man with far too much flexibility, making a positon that has luckily been destroyed by time. It says simple words, “Clean yourself if you’re dirty” It is good he is likely dead.

“With the focus of the dragonlords Sythaeryn, Khione, and Zion upon the warfront, there has come a need for warlords to handle the domestic affairs of the city proper in such times. Three have been gathered to bare the mantles of history, disciples of strength in body and character alike who I am certain bare the spark necessary to represent Theria with due violence and candor.”

The second Clown Prince, Marzius Volgin, he who has inherited my mantle of yesteryear and the chaos it manifests.

The second Thunderlord, Thalis Avitus, he who has broken the shackles of the monarchy upon his Sudsburian upbringing, and seeks the storm.

And lastly and with pride, the second Black Knight, Valero Task, a boy that has grown into a man, and a master of energy magic as potent as my own prime.”

A final advert for Slick Sicks shows him giving a wink, horns curved around his head as this incredibly vain demon attempted to seduce the masses with visual stimulation. Someone must have killed him.

"With that comes change in industry and spirit alike. With Apep's distant vacation, the factory's inoperation is sin. I put it and Theria's Research and Development efforts in the hands of Bea Zhichuan and Hades Task, I know they are capable of making it a source of progress and higher thought. In that same vein, Revan Task is being groomed to fulfill my duties as the patriarch of the Fireblooded, his spirit is bold, burning with passion, and above all sincere, he will make a fine priest in my place for Theria's spiritual needs."

[Tattles]

MYLLENORIS
-1747-

After three years of quiet peace and operation, Myllenoris begins to shuffle and shift with news coming from its central tower once again as tensions across Esshar boil over. The High Lord makes a speech before his people with the intention to allow transcripts to make their way across the land to those interested in its contents.

I am disappointed.

What many do not know is that Asta Hargrave's motivations were fueled by a desire to save humanity from itself.

My predecessor could not find it within her heart to trust man, for in her experience, hearts of flesh and blood were too vulnerable to greed, to prejudice, to vengeance, to hate.

I am disappointed that I vouched for mankind and that I insisted to trust them.

But disappointment does not mean condemnation.

Myllenoris' stance has been public and clear ever since the War of Crowns came to its end;

Alexander Petrakis' life was bought by the blood spilled in the streets.

His sins were washed away in a balancing that I hope to never see again.

It is for this reason that the Valeborne have never sought to harm Nysea, and I have made it plain to both the King and his people that so long they do not intend to place Alexander back upon the throne in the east, then I do not see a problem with his reign continuing in the west.

To this end, the Valeborne have orders to leave Osrona at last.

We have a greater enemy to turn our attention to, and if we must defend mankind's right to wage war on itself, then that is what we will do.

I call out now to any who would take up arms against the abominations in the woods.

I invite all who would hunt the scattered members of the Coven to join me in my kingdom.

We will not rest until Nebula Lockwood's 'remnants' have been reduced to puddles,

or frozen statues.

(High Lord Finn Ghede)

The remaining Valeborne and Teraphim forces that have slowly been decreasing in number over the years are finally and completely pulled from Osrona's walls where they are returned to their home.
Myllenoris makes preparations not to intervene upon the coming conflict unless any of its previous expectations are broken.

However, Myllenoris does not go without change or activity.
The city itself has reported an overgrowth of the forests within its constructed borders. The Vale's mists now extend throughout the streets on most nights, its influence now felt not only within the secluded, inner woods, but outward as well.

Talk of an official Demon Hunting focused wing of the Valeborne is in the works.
(OOC: More information to come soon)

In some news that had gone unannounced, Rolim Seira, Tieru Avlee, and Agate were all promoted to Mistseers to join the High Lord's Council, and Amalia Ghede, the Lady Consort of Myllenoris, underwent the Rite of the Chrysalis.

[ilio]

-1747-

The new generation comes not with a bang but silent whispers

A lot has transpired since the usurping of the Essharian Empire's Shimmering City, Osrona in 1741.

This is the story of Nysea's side. The refugees that still live under the Petrakis Monarchy.

• King Alexander rei Petrakis survived the battle after defeating High Lady Asta Hargrave in one on one combat, he now remains the Monarch over at the village of Nysea.
  
• Lightbringer Lloyd Durages met his end at the hands of New Osrona. Several years later, Stellus Del mer Joyau met her end at the hands of New Osrona.
  
• Prince Odin ras Petrakis met his end at the hands of New Osrona.
  
• Del mer Joyau was granted sainthood.
  
• Lloyd Durages' bloodline was blessed by the High Angel Maltziel for their warrior spirit and yet, nobility was rejected, marking the Durages in a unique spot among the Essharian Empire's hierachy.
  
• With the void left and the mourning that transpired, High Keeper Knights Sethon and Filia rose to the highest position of the two branches of Osrona, the Church and the Order. Sethon made Lightbringer and Filia made Stellus.
  

• The Ancient Houses of the Empire, the Grimmore, Astor and Pelleaux have started to show more. With Anastasia ven Astor as the Head of House Astor. Princess Aradia ras Petrakis is the Head of House Pelleaux.
  
• Missions among the newer cadets start to pick up. With expeditions moving towards nearby towns afflicted by the Dark Meteorite brought about the Red Witch and future endeavours among the Knights.
  
• The first born child of Alexander rei Petrakis, the heir to the throne has begun to make more of an appearance in Nysea. Crown Princess Aeliana Dorine ras Petrakis. The other children of the King of Esshar are unknown to Eternia at large, whether he has any, but rumors circulate that they are no longer in Nysea, nor Osrona.
  

With the declaration of war from the Republic of Osrona against the village of Nysea, there is no choice but for Nysea to defend once more.

Farmers, women and children are brought in from the outskirts of the city as the small routes of trade are slowed to near nonexistence.

Basic fortifications are made and reinforced.

The remnants of the Essharian Empire prepares for a third.. and perhaps final war.