State of Meranthe

[ThatAlainGuy]

2161

"Victoria per scientiam, Victory through Knowledge. It's this belief I hold in the power of knowledge and understanding that has led me to lay the foundations of this academy. There's no need for us to believe as others do nor live as others expected of us, is there? Come, enter the halls of my academy and allow us to guide you to a better future." - Michael Eros

"Let this be a step into a new era where mortality stands as the patron behind it's own power. My arms are open to teach any that are prepared to take the reigns of destiny into their own hands." - Muse Eros

The above is paraphrased quotes from The Scholia Arcanum's leadership, Michael & Muse Eros, during a speech at the foot of their newly constructed academy. Countless non-magi and magi alike in attendance all seeking a chance to learn from the staff gathered inside. At the end of his speech The Headmaster declared they would be planning a large party to celebrate their grand opening. Letters already being written and prepared to be sent out towards various nation's leaders and independent scholars throughout Meranthe. Additionally, a few things of note were revealed after his speech including revealing members of staff and their particular duties going forward.

• Zhanna Illivna, one of The Ipsissmus Council which leads and advised the two Consul has been declared The Minister of Development. All artificers and alchemists have been placed directly under her command going forward. All are advised to seek her out for further instructions and to assist her on various projects.
  
• Lys'Ria, The Blacklight Demon formerly of Gloomlight and Arcadia has also been declared a member of The Ipsissmus Council and additionally has been made The Minister of Culture going forward. Those seeking to help organize events, plan festivals, and assist on other such matters of culture are advised to seek them out first chance they get.
  
• The Security Force, an armed force devoted to the protection of The Scholia Arcanum and expeditions to gather knowledge has begun recruiting in earnest. Please seek out Raeyne Taranis or either Consul if you desire to enlist. All members of The Security Force are required to attent Professor Taranis Combat Classes and are reminded to treat their non-magi comrades respectfully.
  
• The Non-Magi, an often marginalized class if only due to their inability to weave mystical forces have been arriving in greater and greater numbers. Muse and Michael Eros happily enrolling them into the academy. Rumors of attempts at granting magic to the non-magi have been heard whispered in the streets and some non-magi are seen joining The Security Force. Could those rumors be true? Have they found a way to overcome that disparity in ability?
  

Our Friends & Others

Goldlight: Long time friends, let us keep our hands joined for a better tomorrow. [Ally]

Kingdom of Fortune: Regrets to the passing of Stede, our sisters at sea. You'll find no issues with us, let us support one another going forward. [Positive]

Gloomlight: Let us respect each other's boundaries and keep to ourselves. [Neutral]

Delphina: Seemingly eternal in both their stagnation and permanence. Conflicting ideals need not ever meet, though we wish you well nonetheless. [Neutral]
Arcadia: Good people, even if bound with those stagnated souls. We wish you a bright future and extend an invitation to your own. [Positive]

Caethir: A shell of who they host. May your people force you onto a better path. [Wary]
Court of Ilumitar: Our friends across the sea in sorcery. We happily welcome you to our academy! [Positive]

Nightview: Our arms are always open to the scholars on the other end of the continent. Please, pay us a visit! [Positive]
Serenity: Joined by the Nexus! We look forward to working with you! [Positive]
Jotunheim: Keep to yourselves for now, and we will do the same. [Wary]
Enos: You venerate Tyranny and War. What could be more regressive? [Negative]

Hallowscrest: The unshackled will always have a place here. [Positive]
Pscaela: A coin flip between madness and progress. [Neutral]

The People of All Nations: Come, indulge in the knowledge we have to offer! [Positive]
Mementos Remnants: Wherever we stand you shall find yourself welcome. [Positive]
Witches & Zealots: Come, learn and perhaps be freed from the shackles which bind you. [Neutral]

[Era]

Keep of Aetius

The Year of Fall, 2162AC.

Population/ 

People: Under 25 (magi and non-magi).

"To those far and near,

Look to the horizon and you'll find a spire that reaches the heavens. The grand vision of Joseph Aetius named the Tower of Aetius. It's many things; the epitome of human spirit; the ambition to reach other worlds...

To me it's home, the place where I learnt magic and experienced life. Now I have the means to return.

Should you have simple, greedy ambitions: becoming the best mage in Eternia, providing for your children as a mercenary, making your family into a great house, or accruing wealth as a merchant, perhaps one day it'll be your home too."

Unsuccessful in their initial conquest, Uralai's warband retreated to the countryside. Forced to regroup and lick their wounds, they leveraged their newfound infamy for support and resources.

After the turn of the new year, when spirits became restless once again, their ambitions for land were realized in the form of a stronghold, located south west of the Tower of Aetius. In its early stages, it's nothing more than a castle-keep for like-minded people. (118, 436, 1)

Alongside the letter released to nearby villages and towns, Uralai has put out feelers to poach noteworthy leaders from their current employment.

Illumitar of Caethir has been offered the position of Grand Sorcerer. And accepted.
Surras of Caethir has been offered the position of Archmage.
Zhanna Illivna of Arcanum has been offered the position of Archmage.

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Ideals/
The fledgling stronghold resembles a meritocracy and its ideals are the magicians Court of Ilumitar. It's progressive.
Note: Being that some of the members are apprentices of the mysterious sorcerer, their interpretation of said ideals may differ.

I. The progression of humanity in the eternal mission to bring about a golden age utopia.
II. The search for a worthy King. Offering aid to those who will bring about change and add wealth to the histories of Meranthe.
III. The complete eradication of malignant forces that serve as a distraction in the great work, mastery of the True Magic. Advancement of society is necessary.
IV. Fulfilling one's ambitions regardless of the hard choices and sacrifices that might be made.

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Hierarchy/
The ranks publicly displayed are the following,
Lord: Uralai
Archmage of War: Gideon Lancaster (+Commander)
Grand Sorcerer: Ilumitar

Lord = Leader of the land, a title chosen for ease of structure but not necessary for everyday use. 
Grand Sorcerer = In olden times, the world of Eternia had wandering wizards able to cast enchantment spells and create weapons with magic. Often known for being skilled diplomats amongst courts. With the advancement of magic in Eternia, sorcery is recommended for this role.
Archmages = A magi that has mastered what has made them unique; their skillset, magic or career. Their title reflects this and they serve society in such fashion.
Mage = A magi registered beneath banner, free to pursue their ambitions. To be registered they cannot serve gods or devils and must demonstrate a spell before an Archmage. No knights.

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Relations/
Humanity
Kingdoms of Meranthe: "Kings or Queens with high ambitions and resolve could be allies and those that aren't, we're on neutral terms."
God Worshippers: "What would Eternia be if all the time spent praying and worshipping was spent exploring the Heights of Magic?"
Non-Magi: "To be human is to choose the life -you- desire to live; should you not want to live under religious dogma... you don't have to."

The Malignant Forces
Occultists: "Do you have a personality separate from your magic? That'll determine the answer."
Witches: "Enslaved to the devils but deluded that they're free."
The Walking Graves (Undead/Necromancy): "We're not Arcadia. You belong six feet under, not around people."
Crescent Isle/Pscaela: "When a snake sheds its skin, it remains a snake. Who're you fooling?"

[Lich4441]

2162
Year of Fall
The Isle of Nihil

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Matters of Leadership

• At the beginning of the year, following several incidents concerning the leadership of the Draconis Chorus, Donaan Octavius, the Lord of Nihil, has descended into a long slumber.
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• In his absence, the Chronicler Jaherr Valkynia has stepped up to lead and facilitate reforms during this interim period, until further discussions on the isle are concluded.
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• Abellona and Cyndana are to remain adviser and steward while also having a higher say in the matters of the isle.
  

Matters of Religion

• The faith practiced on the Isle is generally inclusive of various accepted beliefs, particularly those common to Meranthe. However, it holds a deep reverence for the Divine Four.
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• Recently, Abellona underwent her baptism in the faith of Saewylm, one of the Four, at the Sister Settlement of Drakanspire.
  

Matters of Development

• News of the inn named "The Caretaker," which is currently under construction on the Isle, is spreading. Abellona is responsible for overseeing its development.
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• Additionally, Cyndana's renowned masonry works are prominently made within the Isle.
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• Discussions are ongoing between Godwin and Jaherr concerning the old pit that was initially set to be transformed into a coliseum, but plans are being restructured for a different purpose. Meanwhile, drones and wyverns can still be seen transporting large quantities of Tyrium to the Isle for reasons yet to be disclosed.
  

• Questboards are seen being setup, with word that the Chronicler is reaching towards the Arch-Magi Association for matters that could be dealt with in 3rd party. Stay tuned for such developments in regards to this.
  

• A redesigning of the faction's cloak uniform is in order, among others...
  

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Matters of Diplomacy

Drakanspire : Friendly
Meranthe : Neutral

[Gunner]

-|2165 A.C|-

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Ω  -  There have been changes in the ranks as Soma Kazana and Zao step down as The Hands of The Inquisitor, and instead take up the mantles of Den-Watchers. Those who will serve as guides and teachers for the coming generations and curious faithful. In their stead, Asteria V.Nakano and Nymeria Stormheart have been named Left and Right Hand respectively.

Ω  -  Four clans within Drakanspire have been dubbed 'Pillars of The Spire' for their dedication and their embodiment of draconic ideals. These clans may be as close to 'nobility' that one can expect to see within the temple's grounds. The clans of Kazana,  Stormheart, Dragontongue and Vaniska have each been afforded such a status.

Ω  - There are talks of concerts, sermons and tournaments planned in the coming months and years. As well as more official announcements to come from the office of The Inquisitor. 

Ω  -  A proper partnership is forged with Enos to the north, as the more vocal representatives still waving the banner of The Ruby Empire remain close in mind and ideal. Rumors grow within the temple of intended industrial additions to the holy grounds as well as efforts to forge proper roads between the two states quickly spread.

Ω  -  Despite having sent a small force to Aetius in order to aid in their march against Gloomlight, both the Commander of the Bastion and the Captain-General of the Order have both been seen coming and going from the temple in rather good terms. Though matters may remain tense for the time being, the assurance that the wrongs of the past will be corrected has led to a hopeful attempt at rebuilding ties.

Ω - Religious worship beyond that of The Divine Four has been prohibited in public and strongly discouraged in general. Private reverence to the Pantheon as well as the Constants is allowed if kept quiet, though worship of Azrael, Void Entities and any Patron of witches is not only illegal but punishable by immediate imprisonment and judgement. It is said that there have been sightings of Inquisition patrols knocking on doors at night for 'wellness checks' of those with suspected leanings. [Heresy Declaration]

Ω  -  "The End of The World" by Osric Talalt is dubbed as prohibited text within Drakanspire. Those within the temple with the text are encouraged to turn it in to The Inquisitor or her Hands. The Inquisitor having stated, "It is quite a well written read, though its conclusion is deeply troubling and borderline heretical. This has no place in the collection of The Faithful"

Ω  -  There is a campaign within The Inquisition encouraging those within to also join The Volunteer Army,  understanding that their duty to protect Meranthe runs deeper then just their Oaths to The Four.

Ω  -  There are talks of different projects underway within Drakanspire. Artificers and Wayfinders are encouraged to speak with Inquisitor Kazana if they are interested in lending their services.

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-Relations-

Enos: Allied

Caethir: Friendly
Nihil: Friendly

Aetius: Respected

Gloomlight Grove: Tense but Cordial

The Goldlight Order: Cordial

Nightview: Neutral

Kingdom of Fortune: Neutral

Delphina: Neutral

Arcadia: Neutral
Antefinem: Neutral
Serenity: Neutral

Viritas: Cautious

Court of Illumitar: Heretical

Grand Guignol: Enemies

Pscaela: Enemies

Ad Contra Deus: Enemies

[Folian]

2165 AC

And so the hands of time continue on their endless march.
As do we yet continue, ever in search of her traces; those fragments of beauty
reminders of her gentle mercy.
Let Viritas be ever a haven to those who desire expression.
Yet forget not the temperance of a guiding hand.
- Sable Zho, The Viceroy

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• With the entering of a new age for Viritas comes word of change from within the bustling and growing town. A change of leadership appears to have occurred. Following injuries sustained on an expedition, the Lady Curator, Beatrice A. Okabe (formerly known as Artemiss) has since begin to slip from the public eye, being sighted less and less frequently, likely recovering.
  
• In this change, Sable Zho has been named Viceroy of Viritas; assuming control of administrative duties for the territory, and serving as second-in-command. Matters of diplomacy can now be forwarded to him via letter or other means of communication.
  
• With his first decree as Viceroy, Zho has declared that all inactive council members who still reside within Viritas must petition him or be stripped of their titles following the turn of the next year, in favor of finding proper successors to aid in the management of the settlement.
  
• During the Curator's expedition, the Guardian of Viritas, Aqualyn sacrificed their life. In honor of them, a yearly holiday has been declared to immortalize the beauty of their memory.
  
• The Pit for Blood Arts is officially open and will serve as the focal point for a ritual to rid the lands of the corruption which remains as a scar from the Sage of Ruin's efforts.
  
• The Pit will also be used to host an event for those whose art is martial in nature sometime in the future. (TBD)
  
• Rumor spreads of a spirit of ink who has been spotted in and about Viritas, seen travelling the roads and engaging in wayward skirmishes with beasts.
  

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While Viritas' policy of neutrality remains ever enforced, word spreads that the newly-appointed Viceroy is looking to deepen connections with the other nations of Meranthe. Those interested are welcome to seek an audience or otherwise arrange a meeting. Additionally, the ban on the practice of Necromancy or Witchcraft upon the citizenry of the territory remains upheld.

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- Relations -

Meranthe - Neutral

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Settlement Type: Commerce

[Shelpies]

2165 AC

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✦ Ogre Time has completed their main hub, Monolith, building it atop Glufdor's Peak. It is a neutral territory in its entirety, welcoming any and all regardless of affiliation and race.
✦ Ailith Tagasundo has named Lyam Morgrave as her second-in-command publicly, typically delegating the administrative tasks over to the Morgrave.
✦ Magic beasts and waifs are oddly enough being welcomed into Monolith and then given a job through Ogre Time. It is said that those without a job and want to earn money may find work through Ogre Time.
✦ With the recent increase in war activity, Ogre Time has openly declared Monolith will be a place that can be used for meetings and negotiations. Additionally, they openly advertise their services yet again.
✦ Monolith's main focus seems to be that of promoting trade and the flow of money, as expected from a mercenary-centric hub.
✦ Lastly, Ailith Tagasundo had the following to say: "It does not matter who you follow or what you are, if you are looking for money and a job, you are free to join. Similarly, as long as you are the highest bidder, you'll have us helping you out."

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RELATIONS
Meranthe - NEUTRAL

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Settlement Type: Commerce

It's never ogre, for Ogre Time!