State of Meranthe

[QuietTheMind]

2061 AC

After a night of festivities in the caverns of Nyt'hjem, the Na'hrem appear to be more united than they have been in years past. With the death of Malvesta, the eldest child of the two previous leaders steps forward to take their place. Young as she may be, those that remain loyal to Nyt'hjem have rallied behind the child. Promises of a better future and rebirth are made. Clear change has been made in the absence of the War Chief in the past year. The future of the Na'hrem remains unclear, but promising thus far. Rituals are abound and the faith of old. Tradition returns, being instilled in generations of both old and new.

Announcements

☪ As is her birthright as the eldest daughter of the previous Moon Chosen, Liviana Na'hrem is to be named Moon Chosen on the turn of the next year.

☪ After an unexpected arrival during the Midnight Masquerade, a grand hunt has been declared. The target, The Spectral Fox. A bounty of 35,000 coins is placed on their head to be brought in alive.

☪ Nyt'hjem has been officially declared as open to all visitors and is accepting new residents, Nah'rem or not, so long as they respect the ways of the tribe. Rumor has it more construction will be accommodate those interested in the underground city.

☪ The faith of old has been revived, the religion being openly being taught to all who are interested. A new priest has already been inducted under the future Moon Chosen's guidance.

☪ Reparations are being made to mend relations with foreign nations, most notable with the Golden Horde. Members of the tribe are asked to forgo any aggression towards them. Additionally, word tells of Liviana Na'hrem going as far as becoming a ward of the Khan.

☪ Artifacts have been stolen from Nyt'hjem's castle during the shift of leadership. Namely, the Na'hrem's coveted emerald. Other possessions were taken as well and a reward is said to be given to anyone who comes forward that leads to the return of what was taken. The responsible parties will be dealt with without mercy unless they come forward.

Relations

Everyone - Neutral for the time being. Proper delegations will be sent in the coming year.

[Shelpies]

2061 AC

---

Another year has passed and the stillness of the Grand Guignol has shifted; the once-still Gluttony's Maw appears to be filled with signs of life and activity, no doubt bearing portents of action to come from the forces of Gluttony. More and more people can also be seen gathering within, no doubt a sign of the growing forces of darkness. Yet with their growth comes a certain level of uncertainty:

What comes next?

---

• Power can be felt accumulating at a rapid rate within the Gluttony's Maw. No doubt, this is a sign that things are approaching a certain climax, indicative of the regular tremors and ripples of power that can be felt from the Gluttony's Maw. Something terrible will happen if this is allowed to continue.
  
  
• In other news, scouts can see that the forces of Grand Guignol have embarked upon a trip into the Tower and have come out. Yet again, there are talks of continuing with the venture further and further up into the Tower -- to reach the coveted hundredth floors and even further.
  
  
• The previously silent and resting Lord of Sin appeared to have stirred yet again, rumored to soon be taking to the frontlines of battles and raids to come.
  
  
• The recent sabbath have declared that the Grand Guignol and its allies will be preparing for war soon, with nefarious intentions for their targets slated in mind. Yet for some odd twist of a reason, none of their hostilities have been pointed towards the Final Frontier just yet.
  
  
• Rumors of one that calls himself Lyseroth's Son appear to have started plaguing Meranthe as a whole. There is not much of a statement, if at all, from the Lord of Sin himself of the veracity of these claims. Could it be...?
  
  
• Despite the seeming preparations for war efforts, the Lord of Sin yet again invites foreign dignitaries and those with strong desires to his castle for a meeting if they'd so seek.
  
  
• Sounds of construction can additionally be heard stemming from the Gluttony's Maw, indicative of the gradual expansion that Grand Guignol now pushes towards. Sooner or later, the Isle of Aetius may very well be entirely occupied by their growing army.
  

---

RELATIONS
Deep Hold: Allied
Meranthe: Meal

[epic hero guy blue]

2061 AC
_____________________≼≽_____________________

Night rises to tepid, moonlit shores on the trio of isles under the Kingdom of Fortune's banner beneath Fabbondel's reign
for one last time. As the morrow comes, a significant change has taken place, but it is as of yet unfelt by the body apolitic.

Port Fortune bustles with a mercantile din and the lackadaisical gossiping of the retired or vacationing. The rabble of Nilhirra
cavort and carry on with their swaggering and swindling. The lush Sapphire Bay, once Lyonesse, retains its mien of governmental
capital as busybodies busy their bodies.

Fortune, land of the free, remains such.

The changing of heads is not intended to perturb the docile in their domiciles; the life of the average seabound soul changes none.
But for those of higher stature amidst the governing bodies, the changes are ample and swift. Restructuring, consolidation, and
refocusing abound so that grand action may be taken against that which loiters over the blue-hewn horizon but the effect on the
disinterested everyman may be minimized.
_____________________≼≽_____________________

♆ Fabbondel Ethrian has relinquished his title of Sovereign of Fortune at the request of the newly risen King, Fiete Fortuna.

♆ The abdicating Sovereign is instead to fill the role of Doyen of Artificing; neophyte craftsfolk within and without the region are encouraged to speak to him if they yearn to hone their talents on a number of projects.

♆ The ranks of the Kingdom of Fortune are otherwise being consolidated and restructured:

♆ The ranks of High Corsair—helm of the Privateer naval forces of Fortune—and Chamberlain—head of domestic affairs—remain and are rendered temporarily vacant, with aspirants and former-holders requested to reach out to Fiete to present a case as to why they befit these roles.

♆ The role of Division Captain, denoting the helm of one of the three respective isles, has been momentarily snipped. They are intended to return at a later date under the purview of the High Corsair.

♆ Migrant populations are encouraged to settle amongst the isles. Plans for a mainland port to serve as international embassy is spoken of, though public details remain scarce at present.

♆ At the recent moot hosted by the remnants of Vdalion's people, Fiete executed Jerekko of The Gutter and publicly declared zero tolerance for demons, witches, necromancers, or their followers. Despite this, there is no umbrage with wielders of the occult, at present.

♆ Word spreads that any of Fortune who consider themselves to be especially capable in battle should reach out to incumbent King posthaste. While advanced economics, mercantile growth, and freedom for its people remain core to the Kingdom, the looming threat of demons and Gluttony's Maw cannot be left unattended for nary a moment more.

♆ In light of this, and in light of the changing of heads, relations with all major nations are to be considered universally neutral while more pressing matters (the cataclysmic tower looming over yonder) are tended to; it is not the time for politics among men, yet.
_____________________≼≽_____________________



The Grand Guignol - Warring
Sainted Enclave - Neutral
Final Frontier - Neutral
Golden Horde - Neutral
The Gutter - Warring
Nyt'hjem - Neutral
Aphros - Neutral

[Bluebird]

2061 AC

A year has passed since the battle between the Golden Horde and Audhild. Since that time, there has been hushed talks and conversations; none seemed to know what the Horde would be doing next, save for the Khan Hunyati. However, within a few weeks into months would frequent sightings of Magyar scouts upon horseback be seen - it was clear they were looking for something, or someone.

With members of the tribe seeking out answers and knowledge, it would become clear:

Arpad Hunyati has gone missing. And for a moment, it would seem as if the Horde was leaderless.
...But that is far from the truth. There remains one Elvira Kerekes who has stepped up, driven and passionate in continuing the Horde's mission of reclaiming the Dunes and spreading spiritual awareness. Braziers are relit anew and soldiers are rallied.

The Horde remains, ready to rise from the ashes.

---

• Those who were previously dealing with Arpad are now suggested to reach out and request an audience with Elvira Kerekes; as always, foreign dignitaries wishing to communicate face-to-face rather than by letter are offered protection whilst they gather upon Redrock, where the spirits watch over each interaction carefully. However, the Magyars remain mercenary. Meaning... Help will not be free.
  
  
• Passersby would note an odd commotion amongst the general army and tribesmen within the camps. It would seem as if they are preparing for a worst-case scenario, should Arpad not return. A new Kurultai may be on the rise, as well as the possibility of another rite of initiation. Whispers could be heard of the Kerekes also seeking to finally appoint a Keshig, someone to be the lead of their military and the Khanate's champion.
  
  
• Conscriptions are still ongoing. All who cross paths be they captives or tribals continue to be given the opportunity to serve and prove their worth, or any who seek to find a place within the Horde are welcome to approach and see about being part of the initiation, should it come to be. Even those previously touted as enemies will be given this mercy.
  

---

RELATIONS
Meranthe: Remains as Tribute or Conquest.

[Truwarrior119]

---

In the last year Audhild had experienced a vast change in society and goal. The once growing mercantile port-town had been struck by the combined forces of the Golden Horde and their Delphinian backers. The result of this battle ended in the death of the towns founder, Zemheri by the Delphinan Queen's hand. A statue marking his life and achievements has been built within the town square.

An uneasy peace followed the burning of Langley district, resulting in a current ceasefire. However some of it's citizenry had since left due to the uncertainty of the town's future, as well as the risk to their lives if they remain since the conclusion of the prior Moot and what was discussed, in doing so Audhild prepares once more. The people will continue to stand.

The Factories and Workshops within Audhild have continued to work tirelessly, providing weaponry and ammunition necessary to keep their guards supplied.
 
Audhild's leadership consists of a council currently, seating Galland Silvanas, his two sons, Gallade and Miland Silvanas and Erik Rudo. An extension of one more seats is likely planned in the coming years as they seek to rebuild Audhild's missing district and reach out for further recruitment in the Golden guard.

Those who seek to join the settlement and or it's guard are directed to either three, primarily Galland and Gallade for the Guard, and Erik for artificing, cooking and alchemy positions.

Audhild is also now welcoming those who wish to spread the word of their faith to host public teachings to those willing, with the exception of Fel related ones. Those of Mestran faith are especially encouraged.

Miland Silvanas also forwards a message.

"I'm looking to hire those seeking things from wealth, to knowledge and for success. No matter the background as long its not demonic trash.

You know I am man of honor. And if you don't send out a challenge blood is blood and I'm ready to shed it for my cause."

---

Relations

Enclave - Allies
Aphros - Friendly
The Shattered Few - Neutral
Delphina - Neutral
Golden Horde - Neutral
Deep Hold - Existential Threat
The Maw - Existential Threat

[Joshua]

2062 A.C

   

The shifting sands of the southern Expanse settles as New Dexia takes formation. Forged by the efforts of those that survived Ragnarök the village is shaped and its tenants follow the will of Amier. Any from Vdalion's territory that are still wandering about after the events of Ragnarök are encouraged to return to your people; a new era of True Giants is about to be ushered into Meranthe. Warriors clad in silver and white could be seen patrolling the sands --the Wardens of New Dexia and soldiers to the Empire to replace what was the Dauntless of old.

---

• The Shattered Flock now fall under Hofgothi Barabbas Knodd; he calls out to the faithful of the Pantheon or those possessing deep knowledge in an effort to compile all there is to know about them into a singular book.
     
  
• Artificers and blacksmiths could be seen working around the clock forging swords, armor and staves for the upcoming battles against the Grand Guignol and the Deep Hold; their recruits under careful watch as soldiers prepared for war.
      
  
• Several of their members move to join the Shattered Few in their effort to strike down Gluttony once and for all.
      
  
• Vali Folhammar has taken up the position of Emperor, aiming to reclaim his father's seat and finish the mission handed to him by Jokul. He speaks out to all of Meranthe, "Vdalion is gone, and the old ways with it. New Dexia rises from its ashes as a home for Giant-kind and any that follow Amier's will. Hofgothi Barabbas Knodd has become the first True Giant since mine Father's time and with his blessing, a message from the Pantheon; another age of True Giants will be upon us."
     
  
• The Folhammar encourages any that disapproves of his reclamation to come and talk, otherwise follow his will and by extension that of Amier. There is work to be done to heal these dying lands.
     
• Hulda Thorruhn is to be brought to New Dexia to play her part in this new Golden Age's beginning.
     
• Talk of an expedition moves about the town; a dive into the Tower of Aetius is in motion.
  

   

---

Relations
Demon-kind, covens and necromancers: War
The Gutter: Cautious
The Golden Horde: Cautious
Audhild: Neutral

Nyt'hjem: Unknown
Remnants of the Empire: Allied

[Bluebird]

2062 AC
Upon the billowing smokes

The year had started off with a contract that made much of Meranthe quite displeased. Despite this, the Magyars continue on as they were - much preparation to be made, stones blessed by their White Shaman as tents began to be officially packed up. They were making this land theirs permanently, and it showed. No matter how the world viewed them, they would make it known that they know who they themselves were, and always will be. The Dunes rife with activity, totems and fires lit across the camp.

Old contracts nulled, and new ones made.

---

• Hawks can be seen flying overhead with the announcement of Kurultai. For once outlanders are allowed to freely enter without fear of needing to pay tribute; those wishing to learn more of the Horde's spiritual beliefs and culture are welcomed to attend, even those simply wishing to do so out of curiousity. There are whispers of the Rites of Initiation being held after as well for those who were wishing to join.
  
  
• The scouts that had been sent out to search for Arpad Hunyati have finally returned with nothing to show. Elvira continues to request those with any knowledge to step forth, although there are mutterings of their pilgrims soon approaching the camp.
  
  
• A few changes have come to the Horde since Elvira's leadership. Where Dyaus Prithvi remains their general patron spirit to guide the Khan and her shamans, sights of Teleiotita amongst their ranks has caused confusion; some remain unaware of what this means, but some words upon the wind speak of him being next to Dyaus as another patron spirit: that of War, to strengthen their warriors and teach the soon to be appointed members of their Keshig.
  
  
• Since last year, any remnants of soldiers from the Horde has completely retreated and left the walls of Audhild. No longer have they been under siege, and neither are they targets of ire from the tribal people; they are allowed to meet and discuss business whenever they wish.
  
  
• It had not been a secret that Liviana Na'hrem has remained a ward of the Horde, under their protection and guidance, although it seems a change has gone underway since a meeting between the bat and Elvira Kerekes. What this constitutes remains to be seen...
  
  
• Due to the nature of the spirits acting out in agony due to the Maw, a few of the Horde themselves are personally preparing themselves for the upcoming battle for personal reasons. One rare moment in which no coin need be given in contract.
  
  
• As always, those seeking to learn more of the tribe beyond mercenary work are allowed to visit and ask their questions, as long as their traditions are respected and tribute is given - it need not be simple coin.
  

---

RELATIONS
MERANTHE: Tribute or Conquest
NYT'JHEM: ???

[Daeut]

Year 2062

---

How many shadowed dales, how many dropping falls,
How often have these rites allowed mine own weak kind
To commit great violence?
But do not desert me, My True Magistrate who knows my heart.

Your scale's radiant dawn shall weigh them justly.

- Litany of Portents, Ordinance of the Magistrate

---

For close to a decade, the Twilight City slept under its Oracle in relative peace. Others may have deemed it a mild period of stagnancy in the waking years of the Empire's collapse. Famed for her silence and secrecy, the city nonetheless prospered as an oasis of stability in a continent plunged into critical disarray--whether by design or providence. Seemingly overnight, the banners of Vdalion and its Dauntless were torn from all city walls on private orders, and the Bastion reconsolidated as the Twilight City's sole protector. 

◑ 

The shadows milled once more as the Oracle reasserted herself as Aphros's single, highest authority, phasing out many of the military structures left by the Empire, or retooling them under its rightful army. Serving as more than the bulwark keeping the Shadowlands at bay from the rest of Meranthe, its internal affairs stirred more and more into the limelight. Whether a proverbial giant was beginning to rouse from its slumber remained to be seen.

◑ 

For now, it would continue to aid in the fight against Athelios' usurpers.

---

◑ All chief military posts and their incumbent leaders remain as they were under the Empire, with only minute changes occurring.

◑ Under the initiative of Pheonix Altan, the Aspera gains an auxiliary military branch of its own with the Oracle's sanction. Its new Inquisition sets out in direct action against witches and other inimical actors, operating independently of the Bastion to carry out the Asperan Church's interests--so long as they align with the rest of Aphros.

◑ Noctis Equisol returns from retirement, expressing plans to open an academy for the youth of Aphros and inculcate a new generation with the necessary teachings to thrive.

◑ Rumors begin to spread of a new society forming in the underbelly of Aphros, borne of distinct teachings from the Aspera and a fanatical devotion to Athelios. Its surreptitious workings make it a wider mystery to those not in the know. Perhaps for the best.

◑ The Oracle's daughter opens the Gloomlight Library as a repository of knowledge and spiritual teachings accrued from all stretches of the continent. Any donations to its shelves are sought and appreciated by its faithful librarian.

◑ As foreign luminaries move in and out of the Aphrosian Palace and its hallowed council halls to organize, contingents of the Bastion mobilize across the continent to assist its allies in the fight against the resurgent coven menace.

◑ The quiet parochial district of Vera Cruz mobilizes with members of the Bastion preparing to fortify the position against an impending incursion. The details of it have not been disclosed by the Oracle, but it appears something dangerous and destructive looms on the horizon.

---

RELATIONS

Dal'thala: Friendly
New Dexia: Friendly
Audhild: Amicable
Frontier: Friendly
Enclave: Neutral
Fortune: Neutral
The Gutter: ... Undecided
Golden Horde: Complicated
Grand Guignol: Usurpers
Deephold: Usurpers

[Shelpies]

2062 AC

---

Following their successful invasion against Delphina, uprooting countless of Runeoaks from Dal'thala in particular, the Grand Guignol was attacked by the Shattered Few and their allies. Though the battle was fierce and the numerous lives were lost on both sides, the aforementioned fortress appeared to have managed to come out on top, remaining undeterred and unmoved in its position. Be that as it may, the loss of lives on both sides appeared to have dealt a dazing blow to Grand Guignol all the same with their forces harmed by the fierce guardians of Meranthe.

---

• Even now, power continues to accumulate within the Gluttony's Maw, no doubt the target of Fiete Fortuna's offensive in his hopes of stymieing the endless rush and absorption. But with the abomination, Jormungandr's Stomach, remaining intact: it is a question of if there is enough time remaining before the completion of the abominable relic was met.
  
  
• In other news, with the passing of Wra'gul, the Lord of the Deep, and the Grand Guignol's increasing silence towards Deep Hold. It seems that the relationship between the two factions have grown tenuous. Most notably, no support was cast by the aforementioned faction towards the new leader of Deep Hold.
  
  
• Be that as it may, it appears that the alliance between Xarxes and Lyseroth remains firm, evident enough by the reported sightings of the Nephairy's presence within the castle.
  
  
• Most importantly, a sabbath has been commenced to corrupt the trees that were plundered from Dal'thala by the Avatar of Sin. Rumored sightings of the Runeoaks having been planted around the Isle of Aetius surface, albeit in a darker connotation than that of the runic tapestry that Dal'thala once possessed with their trees.
  
  
• The Grand Guignol continues their expansion from the Gluttony's Maw, no doubt soon to fully construct an expanded portion of their fortress within the Isle of Aetius. Rumors has it that the fortress town will be going by the name of 'Sheol'.
  

---

RELATIONS
Deep Hold: Tenuous
Meranthe: Meal

[QuietTheMind]

2063 AC

A drastic shift has happened within the caverns of Nyt'hjem. The city has seen better days, and word tales of some abandoning it all together with the change that has occurred there. But with each new cycle of the Moon, the page is flipped and a new chapter begins. The future is still uncertain, but the remnants of the past strive to rebuild and carve their names onto the stage that has been set. As the next lunar phase shifts into place, it is all but certain that something is coming.


Announcements

☪ In the absence of Malvesta, the citizens of Nyt'hjem were left without a Seer and guidance on their faith. This seems to no longer be the case, as Liviana Na'hrem has also taken up that title until a proper replacement can be found. The ways of old have been properly reinstated with ritual and sacrifice being more common place than usual. Nyt'hem's stance on the undead and other forces that seek to destroy Meranthe remains the same as it always has been. Prey and bounty for the Gods.

☪ The culprit behind the stolen possessions missing from Nyt'hjem's castle has been brought to light and the items all returned, aside from one. The Lunar Emerald, and an important piece to their culture. The previous War Chief, Giovanni, has been named a traitor and is to be brought in for judgement should he be found. Additionally, Daralis has been named an enemy of Nyt'hjem for the role they played and refusing to return the Emerald.

☪ Robel Béchaffet has been recently inducted into the faith and any who wish to learn more are encouraged to seek him out, whether it be to learn more or to join the faith.

☪ A number of Nyt'hjem's own were recently seen participating in a trial during Kurultai, becoming members of the Horde in their own right. This has only further cemented a growing relation between the two peoples. There has been rumor of another alliance coming to fruition, though not much else would be made known at the moment.

☪ Emissaries have been seen coming and going from Nyt'hjem in the past few months. A call for unity has been sent out across to the varies tribes of Batkin across Meranthe. A clear message has been sent. All are welcome within Nyt'hjem so long as the tribe's ways are followed and respected.

Relations

The Golden Horde: Allied
Aphros: Tense
New Dexia: Hostile
The Shattered Few: Hostile
Deep Hold: Hostile
Grand Guignol: Hostile
Everyone Else: ???