State of Meranthe

[GSM]

Year 2072 AC

 The Demon King has awakened.

Skarnfel has been tirelessly churning out warriors of true darkness, a resurgence in the fel forces of the Shadowlands. With the coming of the third Imperfect, the Spawn of Sak'noth, Na'Ria has become something of a deific figure within the legions of Hel's grand design.

All would bear witness to the Ascendant, upon darkened wings.

All would behold the Lord of Knowledge, the once-Owldrake claiming their birthright.

All hail mine.

With a failed attempt at claiming one of theirs came the beating of those wings of Hel, the Imperfect shedding its skin upon the fields of battle. The demonic legion has grown in ferocity, accordingly, with the arrival of the Ascendant. The undead within Skarnfel are beginning to proliferate within like a Hel curse, growing to an insurmountable degree by Xarxes, The Lord of Time's whims.

And those that stood against Skarnfel, those that stood to destroy the Obelisk of the End, would find an insurmountable force emboldened by the powers that reside within the lands of Hel. With raucous resistance, the tides of history were beginning to shift.

Times were changing. The time for change was now.

• The Obelisk of the End has become a true garrison of the fel legions, with demons constantly on patrol at and around it. Rumor has it that an assassination attempt was placed on the Owldrake's life, shortly before its Ascension, but this cannot be verified in its entirety, as it is but illusory whispers upon the wind. In any case, the Archdemon yet lives, and stronger than before. A poor omen for the future of Meranthe, surely.
  

• The spawn of Na'Ria have proliferated and assimilated within the ranks of Skarnfel, expected to grow quickly due to their ancestry directly leading towards Sak'noth, the Lord of Change, and now with direct parentage to the Lord of Knowledge. With the forces having been slightly diminished, culled by the hands of Delphinian royalty, it appears that this move shifted into the role from what was once a simple curiosity to a necessary act.
  

• The Lord of Time, Xarxes, has been heralding in a new age of his own make, alongside the work of Archon Na'Ria's machinations. The future appears grim, as Time conspires against all; with his power growing by the day, and the new Ascendant standing shoulder to shoulder with him, something malicious must yet appear upon the horizon.
  

Relations

Crimson Keep: Sworn Alliance

Grand Guignol: Eternal Revelry

Witches, Warlocks, Cambions: Welcomed, With Caution

Aphros: Immediate Target

Delphina: Immediate Target

Meranthe: Hostile

[Detective100]

Year 2072 AC


Despite the looming dangers across Meranthe, Audhild had the luxury of a peaceful decade within its borders. With Audhild's declaration of coming to Final Frontier's aid should the Enclace and Delphina follow through on their call for war? The city of craft is becoming alert, with rumors spreading that a training course for the younger generation is in the works.

Onto better news, however:

• The city's focus on progress remains firm, from updating the folder of inventions and adding a list of Audhild crafters in the library, to Benjamin Thomson's session about runewriting which had drawn a respectable crowd, to Sycamonia offering her services for hire. 
  
  
• Commander Ariels Kasca has announced efforts to fill the shelves of the Edhellen library, with offers to pay for original writings from the people of Meranthe. Books on any topic are welcome, be it faith, fiction, research, general topics or beyond, with payment being based on judged quality. The near loss of Aphros's own trove of knowledge has been cited as one among several reasons for the renewed interest.
  
  
• A desire to step away from the corporate nature of the previous generation's rulership has also been expressed, with plans to turn a former 'corporate HQ' back into a more communal town hall befitting the rustic port. They also seek to officially add the Sylvanas clan lands west of the town through a district expansion in order to provide infrastructure and general improvements to the area that many already assume to be part of Audhild.
  
  
• New apartment blocks have been built in the Rose's upper floor, to provide more housing for those in need.
  
  
• A new set of outfit for Audhild guards are in production, based on an older design that had been recovered. Should a member of the guard want one? They need only ask:
  
  (Helmets optional)
  

Relations:

Dawnstone: Jolly Cooperation

Aphros: Allies

Final Frontier:Friendly
Kingdom of Fortune: Friendly

Camp Invictus: amicable

Golden Horde: Neutral

Enclave: Shaky
Delphina: Shaky
Skarnfel/Crimson Keep/Grand Guignol: Fel threat.

[Heimdalic_Dreams]

Year 2072 AC


The flag has been planted; the dues have all been paid. With the call for reinforcements answered, the Baron of Blood Rose has finally 
given the precious few Batkin left wandering and homeless after the destruction of all they knew a home to settle. Throughout the year, 
little flapping wings of happy Na'hram children, non-magi and budding potentials alike, would be near invisible to the shores of the mainland past its own fortifications. 
Patrols in intimidating armor with equality intimidating insignias would smile dark and honeyed grins, most of which held the hint of sharpened teeth beneath their helms. A 
people bred for war and lust, readying themselves for what must come next with prayers on their lips and desire in their eyes. 
___

__

_

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• The refortification of the bulwark has been a primary focus of late, attempting to maintain and, if able, add to what the previous denizens had instated, with masons of mostly non-magi origins gladly working their hands for the protection of their new home. Murmurs of a desire not to see what happened to Nyt'hjem repeated within their lifetimes can be heard in passing, audible from their excitement as the citizens open up new shops and build their new homes, many of which seem to be hollowed out caverns at the base of the shore.
  
  
•  The landmass once called Black Rose has now been redubbed in honor for Baron Adairas favored proclivities, as well as the many fleeting warriors with his sigil upon their backs. 
  

• With the silence coming from the Moons Chosens' camp, the Blood Moon Risings' decree to hunt down those still loyal to her bastardization of their race has been enacted; there has been word of a grace period for those who were taken in by her charisma and untouched by the darkness of the occult and wicked ways, but to preserve the legacy of their kins' future, the ones she has rotted must be culled to bring alleviation to talks of extermination. 
  

• Though the Adairas views on the evil of those who go against the flow of the Lifestream have been made clear, so too has his mercies; those who are already living upon the island have been allowed to stay without disruption, so their fate may be carried out by virtue of their own design. However, those who attack and harm the other denizens will be dragged to the back of the castle and shot. Some believe this is just the strange humor of Baron Adaira, though others might note the gleaming guns on some of the Batkins' belts. 
  

• There exists plans to expand the settlement beyond just the few caverns below, and the scattered houses that litter the island. Perhaps even some level of design to enhance the landmass in some way - If not by increasing its size, then perhaps by making it float upon the water somehow. However, the former plans seem to merely be propaganda to increase the rank and file of warriors with adventurous hearts into the garrison, as well as growing the general headcount of the island... Supposedly. 
  

• A recording of a speech made in a distant, sandy land has found its way to the hands of a few merchants, who, for just a few crowns, will gladly play the filtered and semi-corrupted echo - Some suggest this is allowed to happen as a way to display the Barons desires and vision of the future. Others note it's likely just further propaganda. Only time will tell. 
  

Skarnfel: To be Hunted as Prey
Meranthe: Jolly Cooperation
Sheol: Lidded eyes upon their necks
Aphros: Friends with Benefits

[MoonlitGaze]

2072 AC

"Isn't that the place that despises the gods we worship? Who would want to live there?"
"I heard that they're artificers turned bad... Wonder if that's true."
"Apparently they wish to escape this realm entirely, isn't that hilariously impossible?"

Deep within the reach of the wetlands, a budding settlement appeared to be making moves atop the land of Meranthe. Their true goals up until this point had remained unknown to the ears that caught wind of the rumors circulating the town, yet it is said that they are a collection of godless heathens who seek to defy the gods of this land and ascend in ways that those that follow the pantheon would deem disgraceful. 

• Atheoria, the settlement coming to fruition inside of the mire, is a refuge for those who seek to escape the expectations set upon them by those who are of faith. For those that cannot seem to fit in with the criteria that has been ever so present upon these lands and wish to make a home for themselves elsewhere that is without the laws in which keep them shackled from doing what they truly desire. As such, they have brought up a handful of orphans and branded them in ways that would provide them with purpose.
  

• Through various methods, the one whom leads most of the projects and ideas in relation to their objectives is Kieran Amelyn- experienced in both artificing, riftmancy, and other things. Taking a more background position on certain matters, the woman prefers to do the planning and brainstorming for any of their projects and expeditions (such as their recent climbing of the Tower of Aetius that came with many losses, yet just as many benefits). When it comes to her craft, it's believed that there is hardly anyone that is more prevalent than her.
  

• Standing ahead of Kieran in hopes to handle the affairs and such that come with an up-and-coming settlement is Ael Amelyn, the more forthright and levelheaded woman. Whereas her wife displays prowess within the forge, Ael holds the ability to manage the community. With the talent to appeal to the masses, as well as a pragmatic disposition, Ael embodies the role as the head of the faction- though both of their opinions hold weight. Like Kieran, she is also a skilled artificer, yet has admitted that her wife is leagues ahead of her in such.
  
  
• No matter the path they take, it has been made publicly known that the group would do whatever it takes to achieve their goals- whether it be going against other residents of this land, damaging the Lifestream, or even fighting the gods themselves. Their intrepid ways have led them to have scuffles with many of those who walk the land.
  

Meranthe: ???
Crafting Delights: Friends.

[Galion]

2072 AC

"Of Course! Great things come with time! Let us rejoice for the future."

Despite its silence toward the world, Sheol seems abuzz with activity. One needs only to look inside to the active streets. Party-goers laugh, authors exchange their stories, children draw demonic circles on the streets, and cats yowl at the night sky. Loss has been balanced with gain, new faces beginning to weave new tales into existence.

What's Happening?!

+ Renewed is the ascension of the Tower of Aetius, the group involved composed mostly of experienced faces from the Grand Guignol. Previously on floor 55, their intent to rise poses a challenge to Meranthe.

+ The mantle of Sheol's rulership has been taken up by Lyseroth's Champion, Ustrea, while Aubrey Caewynn's position as their religious leader is maintained. Power over the settlement now falls into the domain of his blade & voice respectively.

+ The Princess of Sheol, Cinderella, seems to have grown an obsession with the Delphinan Princess, Melanthia Alinteau, following the failed assault to stop the execution of Amalene Bucur. It is said that any who harm her will find the Princess' ire.

+ Preparation for another ritual is ongoing, which has magnified Helheim's presence throughout Sheol.

+ Whispers about Sabbaths lessen virtually into silence. Involved are the rumors of witches returning to old traditions.

+ Rumors trickle out about the involvement of children in projects. . .

Relations:

Skarnfel - : D
Everyone Else - "I hope you're having fun!"

[Metrice]

Year: 2074

_________________________≼≽_________________________

 

Fortune’s continued prosperity is paramount even in these tumultuous times, the people strive for their nation. The shores have never seen such activity, foreign trade at an all-time high as the Driftwood Battalion grows. New recruits taking up the mantle by the day, in addition to this the Percipience reaches out once more; looking for any and all that find themselves capable within the academic fields. Many a project is underway, the people diligently striving to finalize various works Fortune had long since dreamed of. Due diligence was rewarded in kind, long dormant aspirations come to fruition; each falling in toe after decades of planning. It was well worth the wait.

⤄

In response to recent events the High Corsair has come out with a formal announcement.

Per the Sovereign's decree, The following person is banned from the lands of the Kingdom: Seliph.
Should they be found on our shores again, they will promptly be removed. However, we are open to discussion from the relevant parties on that matter. On a more calm note, those wishing to use our shores for a party or an other civilized event should contact Either myself, the Chamberlain, Or the Sovereign themselves to arrange the space. Due to the actions of a few, any unauthorized foreign events will hereby be disallowed until further notice. Thanks to the reparations of Oracle, the injured of Port Fortuna are being attended too. However a formal apology will be required if the individual in question wishes for their ban to be lifted.

Also a notice to all. Piracy in our waters carries a death sentence.

This being Fortune’s stance until further notice, change is a definite possibility. There is also much favor held towards Aphrosian dealings, leaving the people to hold this ruling towards the individual in question. Nothing more.

⤄

With tensions still high given the so-called Holy Crusades, the Sovereignty urges the good folk of Fortune to watch themselves during travel. Any and all outside relations involving the individuals perpetuating this conflict could end in an altercation, to mitigate this it is suggested Mainland travel is restricted to the Meranthian Channel. This being a safer alternative to the usual caravans the good folk were accustomed too. In addition to this, the Driftwood Battalion has begun a recruitment drive. Any and all interested are requested to correspond with High Corsair Tergiversation; if they are unavailable, one may find answers with Commandant Stede Emeraldi.

______________________≼≽______________________

⁜ Due to continued tensions Fortune’s folk are weary of mainland travel, using the Meranthian Channel for primary locomotion. It is requested none of the isles travel on their lonesome, especially within the Great Expanse. Sainted Church members had been sighted patrolling the area.

⁜ Fortune’s due diligence had been rewarded, long distant dreams had become reality. The folk celebrate, albeit with caution high. Even with the elation these completed projects would bring, the threat of war soured the air. The good folk could only hope this conflict would resolve itself sooner, rather than later.
⁜ The Percipience as well as the Driftwood Battalion call out once more, seeking hopefuls that might embrace their respective values. Fortune knows the Tenuous Peace cannot last in times such as these, not when their citizenry were at risk. Foreign relations seem to be at an all-time high despite this, the good folk continue in their trade. Unless things were to change, mercantile relations had never been greater.

Aphros: Mercantile Accord.
Dal'Thala: Extreme Caution.
Dawnstone: Mercantile Accord.
Blood Rose: Mercantile Accord.
Atheoria: Unknown.
Fel Threat: Not Good.
Camp Invictus: Unknown.
Sainted Church: Not Good.
Frontier: Mercantile Accord.
Audhild: Mercantile Accord.

[Eulogy]

2075 AC

 

---

Taking on the same title as her mother, the newly crowned Queen of Spring, Melanthia Alinteau, immediately immersed herself within her new duties. It is said that the spiritually inclined monarch has taken it upon herself to return 'much needed grace' to her nation; organizing resources, mending relations, and investing in Delphinan projects are just a few ways the queen aims to keep her nation prosperous.

---

 

❀ In the most peaceful passing of the crown in recent memory, Melanthia Alinteau has been declared Queen of Delphina.

 

❀ After being vacant for a significant amount of time, Elvyn Alinteau has been named Commander of the Elzara. It is said that a reform is in the work, given the military has been disorganized for an extended period.

 

❀ More focus has been given towards continuing a certain project regarding the runeoak within Dal'thala square. Those that hold relevant skills towards the endeavor are apparently being sought after.

 

❀ Occult magic is still expressly forbidden from being displayed within Delphina's lands. Cambions and other entities or magics regarded as foul are banned as well. The Queen emphasizes this law will be enacted strictly, and any offenders will be dealt with harshly.

 

❀ Along with reforms of the Elzara, it is rumored the Queen has been planning a potential, joint military operation against a certain foe. Supplies and materiel are being assessed while the plans continue.

 

❀ Being a former member of The Adventurer's Guild, the Queen has given her official, full support towards the organization and their efforts.

 

❀ Despite the Princess of Sheol announcing her 'admiration' of the Spring Queen, the monarch made a point that any who brought harm to Cinderella would receive commendation.

 

Sainted Enclave - Friendly

Dawnstone - Neutral

Kingdom of Fortune - Neutral

Final Frontier - Neutral

Camp Invictus - Neutral

Aphros - Guarded

Audhild - Guarded

Skarnfel, Sheol, Crimson Keep - Hostile

[Didos]

2078AC

 
Over the course of a decade, Dawnstone has seen things change since their past as The Gutter, from simple things to greater things that made lasting presence around. And now, with a new being in power of the monarchy, the oldest Dawnseeker, much more would change! And upon this day that the coronation took place, the night sky was emptier.

 

The stars appearing to be gone for moments.. Yet, the dragon that belonged to the Dawnseekers were more present for the public, making sure its presence was known. Certainly something that clearly marked the changes that were to come.
 

---

 
♚ Ludmaz Dawnseeker assumes the mantle of King, being the absolute authority of Dawnstone.
 
♚ The council is dissolved, abolished and now the authority is reserved only for the King. However, some positions will still be maintained.
 
♚ Mithae takes the position of Commander of the Armies and is also the first member of the Kingsguard.
 
♚ Cosmic Magi are invited to come and talk with the King, who seeks to expand his knowledge and that of those who come to him. As well as working on future projects that require the assistance of those linked to the stars.
 
♚ The sighting of a Dragon is more common and upon its back, the new King, who seems to survey the surroundings and looks outside of Dawnstone's territory quite a lot.
 
♚ People interested in joining the army are encouraged to talk to Mithae, the Commander. And preparations to improve the army are more than visible. Apparently the city of dragons is taking a more warlike direction.

---

  

Relations:

 

Final Frontier - Friendly

 

Demons, Witches, Undead and other Ilk - The Inquisition Continues

 

Rest of Meranthe - Neutral, for now

[GSM]

Year 2078 AC

 The Era of Change has come.

Skarnfel has suffered countless loss after loss, changes that continued to bridle and wash against the wicked forces of the Marching Abyss. The Obelisk of the End, the home of the once-Owldrake, fell. One of the last extant members of Sak'noth's family, Dvarr, the Cowardly Bat, was slain in an execution. Yet it was Skarnfel that continued to rise to the challenge, and continued to fight as if it were their last. And with utmost ferocity, with the rage vested within the fel forces, the Demon King, Na'Ria, continued its endless march, hand in hand with the Lord of Time, Xarxes.

Change was coming.

The tournament of Aetius's Realm Ten, lorded by the enigmatic group of RISE, proved to the world that Skarnfel's fel forces were at the pinnacle. Ascending above the chaff did Xarxes and Na'Ria each claim the title of Meranthe's strongest. The power within them was sealed, partially, yet all the same was the curse of Hel proven anew.

And those that stood against Skarnfel, the mock heroes that stood against the Demon King, would find that the forces of the fel were even stronger than before. Evolution had arisen, changing those within the ranks of the damned, as the Lord of Time amassed greater strengths.

It was only a matter of time, now.

• The Blood Rose Island has been usurped and overrun in a crushing victory over the Aphrosian forces and their allies. The Demon King had enacted its toll, taking what it wished, even if it was an island of little repute before. Now, with the fel forces with access to the sea, alongside an isolated landmass, it was unknown what the forces of darkness could do with such a land. Whispers abound of a Lord taking dominion over such a place, but such is to be seen...
  

• The spawn of Na'Ria have continued to grow, alongside the blessed children that were taken in by it. Many are expected to be true Lords and grand Kaors, with some claiming a birthright beyond it, following the footsteps of both their Grand Father and their very own Mother, while others have ascended beyond the simple strength of a Kaor and are seeking further dominion over this world.
  

• The Lord of Time, Xarxes, has continued to expand his power and grow beyond the simple notion of strength for strength's sake. With a purpose in hand, he has been preparing for something major. What it is has yet to be seen, but it appears that it's an ill omen for the rest of Meranthe...
  
  
• Rumors abound that Grisha, the Child of Felyfraxes, has awakened once more. Christened anew as the Strategus of Skarnfel, the efforts of war are due to become far more ferocious with such a powerful demon, and once-Archon of Skarnfel, leading the ranks of fel warriors and demonic legions into battle.
  

Relations

Crimson Keep: Sworn Alliance

Grand Guignol: Eternal Revelry

The Fel Garden: Vassal State

Witches, Warlocks, Cambions: Welcomed

Aphros: Immediate Target

Delphina: Incredibly Hostile

Meranthe: Hostile

[KaneRage]

Year 2078 AC

Given full Authority by the Demon King Na'Ria, a New Demon Lord Rises, Eranath the Phantom Nethrademon that had tasted the flesh of Death takes center stage as they now are the ruler of the formerly known Island Blood Rose, and immediate change to the name of the Island to name that suited them. 

Fel Garden, The realm of Nightmares.

An oath made Fel Garden becomes a vassal state of Skarnfel pledging undying support to them and their allies, The island now has been completely overrun by all manner of Helspawn Undead, Demon and Spectre alike. Those who chose not to flee are crucified upon Blacked Briar Wood crosses and burned in Occult flames. A warning that none shall tread upon this land ever more.

Immediate changes were noted within the landmass, The Phantom Kaor begins to corrupt the landscape to resemble the Shadowlands, The occult nature of Demons taking a chokehold upon the lifestream and twisting it into something hideous. The Seas around the Island turn black, and a foreboding Black fog encircles the island rotting away ships not made from Briar wood bark or reinforced by other means.

"I have traveled throughout Meranthe countless times, Experienced the torture we Demons face at the hands of you zealots and you who hold Dark powers against us who will never learn their lessons. Fel Garden stands in opposition to your pantheon. In unison with Skarnfel and our allies abroad Sheol and the Crimson Keep we will see you all lead to your ruin. 

We do not want your sympathies. We want your blood, A thousand lives for every Demon whose existences had been erased by your spells and blades. None will escape our fury, The Marching Abyss will consume all.

As Demon Lord I expect those who wish to learn of the Dark and the Depths of Death to seek me out. There is much to be gained and you earn nothing by standing alongside those who will inevitably shun you.

Become greater, Or perish.

My Ascension will not be halted any further. No matter how many times my Soul Shatters, Death will only make me stronger."

-Demon Lord Eranath

• After the Demon Lords Speech there is an immediate hostile response to their words, Pirate ships filled with the Marching Abyss forces form blockades to siege Aphros and cut off their connection of trade through sea routes. Approaching vessels are immediately seized and all aboard brutally massacred and raised back to undeath by the Necromancers.
  

• Skarnfel, Sheol and the Crimson Keep are given full access to the trade routes to and from Fel Garden the Black Covenant. Trade begins between the four nations.
  

• Zel'Ria has been named Demon Lord Eranath's second in command and they speak with the Demon Lords voice upon the island
  

• The Demon Lord calls upon the Dark threads of fate, Occultists are welcome, to explore further to the depths of the Dark Arts, limitations are meant to be broken.
  
  
• Holy Magic is completely outlawed and any found using or channeling the power of faith worship towards the pantheon other than the Dark Gods will be subjected to execution or worse.
  
  

• A looming Darkness approaches Change will come. Even if by force.
  

Relations

Skarnfel: Capitol State
Crimson Keep: Sworn Alliance

Grand Guignol: Eternal Revelry

Witches, Warlocks, Cambions: Welcomed

Aphros: Immediate Target

Delphina: Incredibly Hostile

Meranthe: Hostile