State of Esshar

[Sanguine415]

Captain Maertock Reave,


I don't repeat myself. Consider ties between Achyon and the Deep Company cut and your rag tag group of sailors enemies. I don't deal with men who don't contribute to the Empire of Barsburg. I am not Luca pyr Docro.

-Commander Matryona pyr Docro. 

The Deep Company - 1816

Local reporters in classic Reave fashion were kidnapped for a spontaneous press release following a tense exchange of letters with the high commander of Achyon. When reached for comment by force, the Captain of the Deep Company had this to say.

Now, if this letter isn’t just sweet as molasses. Here I thought I was dealing with a cog, but it turns out I was handling a broken record. I do not answer to anyone’s demands, let alone some upjumped brass still bitter my brother ran your pockets like a marathon.


If you seek to make enemies of the last assembly of people in this archipelago capable of helping you, you’ve managed it. Were it not for my affection for Luca. Amelia, and my dear mentor Nidaz, I would have encouraged Enki to sink you already. He’s itching for the opportunity.


Watch your backs.

A few general announcements were made following the commentary by the captain.


The Deep Company is now neutral with the Fireblooded once more, hostilities with Achyon have reignited following Matryona’s demands. 

Luca Docro and Amelia Aertas are to be spared, every other cog is open season.

Relations with Osrona remain strained, though no longer actively hostile.

Rumors of a titanic kraken's corpse lying in the shallows beside Siren Beach say it twitches even in death. A harbinger of a strange omen indeed.

[BabyFatJesus]

1816AC

"We’ve killed gods before, what’s a band of pirates added to those arrayed against progression?"

 
 
ᔸ   Following Captain Maertock’s outright refusal and subsequent insults to meet with Achyon’s High Council regarding his project alongside Amelia among other matters important to the continuation of the working friendship between Achyon and the Deep Company, all friendly ties have been subsequently cut off, as promised.
 
The project will no longer be allowed, Councilor Nidaz will no longer teach the pirates his skillset, all members of the crew will be attacked on sight by Achyon military personnel, including that of Captain Maertock and his small band of misfits
 
ᔸ On the heels of this announcement, Anastasia pyr Aertas also released the correspondence between the Deep Company and the High Council, with this to say afterwards.

You came to us asking for Achyon’s help, for Achyon’s teachings, and you gave us nothing in return. We were willing to meet you halfway, but only if you did the same, pirate. Since you have absolutely nothing of value to offer us beyond pointed words to the Commander of our military, then you will get nothing else from us besides the violent reply you deserve.

We simply do not need you as much as you believed to be so.
Enjoy your pleasant beach locale while it remains hospitable.
-Councilor Anastasia pyr Aertas

ᔸ 

Deep Company members,

The High Council of Achyon demands the presence of Deep Company Captain Maertock Reave. Several topics will be discussed, such as the punishment for Deep Company member Enki.

-Commander Matryona pyr Docro

Dear Commander Docro,
 
I don't answer summons from anyone but my god. I believe we misunderstand the point of our good relations, perhaps because you are still bitter and desire subordinates of us despite being surrounded on all sides by nations that seek to destroy you. Every nation, mind you, but the small gathering of my crew.
 
I'd recommend recalling your place within the machine, dropping your pettiness and meaningless emotions, and try to actually preserve your city's few alliances before they crumble into dust in the face of your unpleasantness.
 
If you desire a meeting, I can assemble my crew at the Waystone Inn. Bring your people if you're afraid.
 
Love,
Maertock

Captain Maertock Reave,
 
If there is no agreement to a civil discussion regarding our position together between the High Council of Achyon and yourself, then our ties will be cut. Your men will no longer be allowed within our walls. The project with Amelia will be cancelled. You and yours will be denounced as enemies.
 
To call Achyon's leadership afraid when you seek to meet in a place hostile to Achyon with your crew and expecting us to come alone? And then waiting a little over a year to return a letter when you were so willing to cooperate before? Spare us the insults, pirate. We've an entire Empire at our back. Gods have fallen at the hands of our troops.
 
You're to come to Achyon before the conclusion of the year. Nothing less.
 
Iron Chambers.
Commander Matryona pyr Docro
Captain Anastasia pyr Aertas
Captain Ryker pyr Docro

The Deep Company is now considered an enemy to the city of Achyon and the Empire, and will be attacked on sight by it's military personnel.

[Milly]

1824AC

“People seem to have forgotten how Achyon is run. By the Iron Council, that is.”

ᔸ Apparently, it stands that the Empire’s stance upon Occultists & Exorcist need to be repeated for those unaware: Occultists & Holy Magi are viewed as second class citizen, no matter from what family they hail from, until they prove their worth to the Empire. This magic has proven to only poison the mind, after all. No price is too much and no sacrifice is too far in the name of Barsburg and her progress.

ᔸ  The City of Achyon, as an arm of the Empire of Barsburg upon Esshar’s shores, is not a safe haven for lunatics and murderers. If you do not provide assistance to the Empire’s progress, then you are worthless. Do not anticipate you will seek safety behind our walls for free. If you have questions you may speak to a member of the Iron Council freely.

ᔸ Iron Council members include: Luca pyr Docro, Ryker pyr Docro, Matryona pyr Docro, Nidaz, Anastasia pyr Aertas, Freda von Bohm

ᔸ  Project ADAM has been completed at last. What this news means for the future of Achyon’s war efforts upon the greater part of Esshar remains a mystery. The Empire has, as always, been tight lipped about such plans.

ᔸ  Achyon continues to be hostile to all within Esshar: Osrona, the Fireblooded, Moxtli, and the Deep Company.

ᔸ  Achyon’s Hand, the militant wing of Achyon proper, is seeking able bodied recruits. For those who are on the verge of graduating from Esshar’s Academy and wish to be part of the future of humanity, speak with Commander Matryona pyr Docro, or Captains Ryker pyr Docro and Anastasia pyr Docro

ᔸ  Achyon’s official stance on the rumors of a large strike happening are as follows: Dissent is not tolerated. If these fools wish to be made examples of, then they shall get their wish. Nothing is wrong. Keep working. Listen to the Council.

ᔸ  For those found supporting such dissent against our glorious Empire, they will be sentenced to hard labour back within the mainland. The same as Azaron most recently, according to official records. If they wish to mine so badly, they may do so all day there.

[Simple]

The Shimmering City of Magic
1825 A.C.

The last decade has seen a great stability, and while tensions remain high with the Empire due west, no major clashes have broken out between the two nations. A great deal of Osrona's resources were invested within the next generation, funding and supplying faculty to Starfall Academy. With the first graduating class now out among the world, the Stellus has reportedly returned to Osrona, giving up her teaching post entirely.

The people of Osrona are discouraged from provoking those of other nations, and only assuming self defense where necessary. The garrison at Baleford Bridge remains prepared should an external threat attempt to launch an assault upon the nation's vital chokepoint. Even if things have been quiet in recent years, the Order remains as ready as ever.

Most notably in the last few years, the Stellus condemned the actions of Celicia and excommunicated her, branding her both a traitor and heretic. Heroes of the Faith are encouraged to apprehend her, and return her safely to Osrona for questioning and potential rehabilitation. It goes without saying that Osrona as a whole stands at odds with the goals of the New World Order, and remain hostile with any of their members.

Now that the graduating class is returning home, a recruitment day has been scheduled, wherein graduates and citizens of Osronans alike will be able to join the Order and Faith freely, as well as any other Osronan sponsored organization. There will be representatives from each posted, and potential recruits are encouraged to attend and join their desired organization. This will be held on Wednesday, February 3rd at 6 PM EST within Osrona's square.

There are talks of a meeting of the council being organized, though a date has yet to be released. Rumors state that the old generation now looks to the younger for potential leadership qualities.

[InThePooPoo]

Garljing's Coat
1825 AC


It has been a turbulent year on Tarian Mountain. After Duniya Vartuul went mad with grief and envy at her own child's wedding, she unleashed her own dragon on her people, and gravely wounded her daughter Violet and her husband Fennel. Word begins to spread that she has been growing more and more unstable as time passes. She will not even show her face in public, opting instead to wear a mask.


In the months following these events, the Den-Mother has made it known quite clearly that she is intent on searching for worthy Dragonlords to carry the banner of the temple. After the recent graduation of the first class of Starfall Academy, a plan has been set into motion. 

A Grand Bloodletting, a ceremonial tournament designed with deciding who is worth naming Dragonlord of Garljing's Coat. 

It will be open only to those who have openly and consistently expressed loyalty to the temple, though observation is welcomed for citizens of the Shimmering City as well as Moxtli. 

The Grand Bloodletting will be held on Saturday at 6:30PM EST.

[Simple]

1826 A.C.

An announcement has been made to the denizens of Osrona and the surrounding territories, straight from the Celestial Church. Per the orders of Geztelle ven Pelleaux, Rhesus DeLaurentis has been named High Keeper of the Faith, as well as her second in command. In her absence his authority shall be as high as her own, and rumors state she is intending to take a back seat for a while, allowing him to handle more of the day to day tasks, be it with acolytes or otherwise.

Mister DeLaurentis has served the Church for a little over half a decade, but his due diligence and faith has been recognized. Given that I will be taking a step back in the next few years, I deem it necessary that a second is designated, and in a few years time I hope to find someone worthy of taking the mantle of Stellus.

Issues that would normally require my attention can be forwarded to my High Keeper, as he is quite capable. I have full faith and hope that Rhesus will take this position seriously, and carry it out to the best of his ability. He will also be heading the Keepers within the Church in addition to all of this.

I fear that troubling times lay ahead, but all we can do now is our best to ensure a better tomorrow for all of Osrona.

Furthermore, eyewitness reports state that Commander Ryker pyr Docro of Achyon was spotted within Osrona, meeting with the Stellus within the Celestial Church. No details have been released of this meeting, though rumors have swirled all the same.

[Simple]

Invasion of Osrona
1827 A.C.

Word quickly spreads throughout Esshar that Osrona was invaded directly by Achyon's Hand, led by Commmander Ryker pyr Docro. The assailing force utilized rift magic to siphon through several regiments of soldiers, which then took advantage of the chaos and pandemonium to lay waste to the Shimmering City itself. Their goal was the capture of Isana pyr Aertas, and the subsequent capture of any Osronan who resisted their attempt.

Prior to the cleansing of Isana, the infamous outlaw Bruno pyr Aertas used the cover of invisibility to launch a surprise attack upon the woman, defeating and capturing her in the process. As Achyon's forces arrived, however, it became quite clear that there was no easy exit. He was defeated and captured by a combined effort of Julius pyr Aertas and Xenia pyr Docro, with the Commander inflicting the fatal blow thereafter.

Clashes rang throughout the city, as the Order, Faith, and allies of Osrona rallied together to stave off the assailing parties. Though losses were suffered, the combined might of Osrona's populace was enough to push Achyon back, thwarting their attempted invasion and abduction.

As Achyon began to make its retreat, Niffty executed Dallan in front of the Osronan forces. As she attempted to secure his body, however, Alistair ven Pelleaux drove the razuka back.

After witnessing the death of a comrade, friend, and devout of Eos- the people of Osrona lifted the lifeless body of Dallan and made way to the Church, led by the Stellus and renowned White Mage, Geztelle ven Pelleaux. Those in attendance were instructed to pour their energy into the woman, as she attempted to pinpoint his soul and ferry him back to his own body.

Beyond the roof of the church and the open glass window, a beam of light connected those present there to the heavens briefly, many of which gave their life energy-- several coming to the brink of death, and perhaps leaving with an understanding of the cosmos and all that connects in the aftermath. Those nearby could swear they heard the most beautiful song, like a violin melody played by divine hands, soothing to the soul.

Geztelle, combined with the aid of those who sacrificed, was able to revive the fallen Dallan, though it came at great cost to those around herself. Many of which were permanently injured, within inches of death, and Geztelle's connection to her own magic had been severed in its entirety, mana circuitry ruptured.

A display of heroism, divinity performed on this day. A combined effort on behalf of all of Osrona, led by the Stellus, to restore life to a friend and ally.

[Milly]

1827AC

“Everything is normal. Keep working.”

Following the invasion of Osrona by Achyon’s forces led by Commander Docro himself, word was initially silent from the colony of Barsburg for a long while. Rumors of Ryker’s death were greatly exaggerated, but after several weeks of rest itself Achyon’s forces were greeted to the Commander’s loyal presence within the square once more, sporting a strange set of armor.

ᔸ Upon what has been deemed neither a success nor failure in their invasion of Osrona (as several key targets were either eliminated or wounded severely), Achyon’s official stance towards the rest of the world remains the same: They will kneel or dissent will be crushed mercilessly.

ᔸ Ryker pyr Docro remains the Supreme Commander of the city itself, with the Council having not met for some time as he makes decisions on his own, as well as the Commander of the military proper. His presence upon the battlefield however has mysteriously vanished, and no details have been released.

ᔸ Due to their excellence in the field of battle, the following soldiers have been promoted:
To the rank of Sergeant:
Julius pyr Aertas
Xenia pyr Docro
Akrites Fitz-Empress
Julian (no last name? Officials scratch their head)

To the rank of Corporal:
Bianca Ignacio

For those promoted to Sergeant, you are hereby reminded to fill out the necessary paperwork in order to receive your Silver service cap.

ᔸ Privates and Corporals have been seen enmass gathered not just at Silverwall Mines to continue to fortify and hold the strategic location, but also the entrance to Achyon itself.

ᔸ The prisoner that was captured within the chaos of the invasion of Osrona, Atlas Akar, has not been seen from since his capture into the depths of Achyon’s fortress. Whatever that could mean seems foreboding however. Captain Nidaz did release a statement shortly following the incursion: “Even in defeat, we have your people… And soon? They shall become one with my children.”

ᔸ A call goes out to those who wish to delve into the darker arts such as Fleshcrafting and even Riftmancy itself. Where there is a will, there is a way. With the arts of such devious sciences on full display during the invasion, the proof of their strength has been cemented in stone.

ᔸ There are further rumors that have perhaps been purposefully leaked out of the city of Captain Marcel Delisle’s emporium that will be held for the Empire’s advancement soon. As well, the Captain has been heard speaking of offering funding to any promising artificers within the Empire’s glorious city as well.

[Sanguine415]

The Deep Company - 1827

In a fitting nostalgic fashion for the ever theatrical shadow shark, some of the very first reporters Maertock and Murtock kidnapped were once more forced at gunpoint to produce a press release for the middled aged reaver in spite of rumored back problems. When questioned at force, the elder shark had this to say.

How time flies upon the prosperous river Esshar. It is a strange thing growing old, watching things change around you year after year while your memories remain pristine and rosy nostalgic. Twenty seven years ago, I landed upon these shores with my brothers and original crew, and so we made our mark upon these lands in blood and ink and gold for years. Yet, for all the boundless riches and accursed relics we attained, the land took as much back as was taken and left me the last. Murtock died twenty years ago to this day, and I've always been in his shadow since the moment he passed.

There appeared to be an abrupt pause in the press release, as if mid-sentence Maertock left to go acquire more to drink without any warning. The reporters were not allowed to leave.

Thinking on it much, gauged some real wisdom. My time has passed; I've outlived all of my enemies, original crew, and old friends alike. I won't hold back the potential of the Deep Company by holding tight to its reins in old age, there's a fresh generation of reavers ready and waiting to make their mark and take their cut the same as their forebears. My nephews have grown into fine pirates, and they've reached the age Murtock and I were when we landed upon these pearly coasts.

As of this day, Mori Reave is Captain of the Deep Company. Blight Reave shall be his first mate, and I've begun to pass on the eldritch, inky bladesmanship of the Black Surf to my adopted son Drazen, who will succeed me as Helmsman of the Pauper's Bride and the Deep Company when he is ready. There's only two ways one retires from piracy, and I'm taking the road less traveled in not being stabbed in the back by a mutiny or ending up at the end of a noose. This is a new era with a green generation; the land of Esshar is ripe with opportunity for danger and fortune. And as for old Maertock Reave?

I'm gonna live the dream. With my mutant manservant and my trusty parrot, I'm retiring the only way a middle aged man should; becoming the fulltime tavernkeeper of The Reef. Come one, come all for delightful cuisine, exotic drinks, new sights, dangerous encounters, possible death! All this and more can be yours; the tavern is not responsible for any loss of livelihood at the dice tables in literal or metaphorical fashion. And if you think it's a good idea to let a seven foot tall shark commit unlicensed surgery on you, The Reef is the free clinic of Esshar to visit. Fortuna favors the bold, and this generation is just finding out what that'll mean.

- Maertock Reave has retired; taking over the tavern of the Reef to mentor the next generation of free thinking misanthropes.

- Mori Reave is Captain of the Deep Company

- Blight Reave is First Mate of the Deep Company

- Drazen Reave is the Helmsman of the Deep Company, training in the dread arts of the Black Surf to inherit the legendary, accursed blade of Dread Saltspite.

- Rumor has it of the slow production of a dock works beside the beach where the Pauper's Bride was docked; accompanied by the skeleton of a dreadful lighthouse and rumors of chironic meddling around the location where a massive, rotting carcass of a kraken appeared entombed and preserved in the sands of the bay. 

[Epoch]

The Shimmering City of Magic:
1813 - 1827 AC

[End of Arc Wrap Up]

The past decade was a long period of (relative) stability for Osrona. While tensions with the Empire to the West remained high, no large battles took place except for a raid for Aelrin Alcast. It was unsuccessful and the Champion of Eos was canonized as a Saint following his death. 

After two decades of service, General of the Second Dawn, Lightbearer Cristole retired with an undefeated record; having led Osrona to victory innumerous times. Tybalt followed him. Adrastos ven Astor and Gareth Igraine were made Radiant in their place. The period of peace was maintained and as we approach the year 1830 AC, the current Radiant-Knights are slated to retire. The common folk naturally look to the newest batch of recruits to take their place.

During 1813, the Grimmore House was returned to Osrona by Atticus ven Grimmore. While there had been doubt in the Red House, Atticus' leadership cemented them as trustworthy and the wealth tax on the Grimmore Estate has since been fulfilled. The Grimmore nobility does not suffer from scrutiny as it once did and it now holds a position on the council via Esther ven Grimmore.

The prosperity Osrona experienced in this decade was largely concentrated on itself and it's neighboring city-states. The city finally recovers from the damage inflicted on it by the Black Winter, the Pandemonium Chase from so long ago.

[New Arc]

The Starfall Academy remained the highlight of the years 1820 and beyond with several notable Osronan magi leaving the city to teach. Alistair ven Pelleaux acted as the Headmaster and while turbulent, Starfall could largely be regarded as a success. Following the graduation of the Academy's first class, Osrona welcomed a large influx of magi. The Dawn Order and The Faith enlist a high number of recruits.

It is rarely quiet in this country for long however.

In the year 1827, tragedy befell the City of Magic when it was invaded by Achyon from the inside. Quick to respond, Osrona forced the foreign invaders to flee though not without numerous casualties. In particular a knight and Devout of Eos, Dallan. What is regarded as a miracle followed when the Stellus, Geztelle ven Pelleaux led the city in bringing the man back from the dead. There is no doubt, it was White Magic and it's said by those there that the Church connected to the Heavens on that day.

In the days following the tragedy, Archmagi Amori returns to the stage to address his people once more.

To my city, Osrona.

It has been a while.

What befell us recently was a tragedy that should not ever take place. An attack on the heart of our great city.

Achyon tried to enter our home and murder one of our own. To take what they wanted however they failed.

Through the Divine, he lives.

Through our Stellus' miracle, the Heavens shine on us.

And we will not take their transgressions lying down.

We will not allow their blatant disregard for life against our citizens go unpunished.

To combat an Empire is no easy task which is why I'm calling upon all the banners.
From our neighboring cities to the towns nearby.

I will require all of your help.

They have awoken the sleeping lion and they will fear our roar.

Knights are seen travelling from the esteemed place of trade, Baleford, to the nearby Silverwall Mines. The location which would serve as the first battlefield of many.

Each of Osrona's territories are fortified along with it's city-state as the Archmagi calls upon the guilds and bannermen of the city.

Going into the 1830s, Osrona has the following territories to her name:
Osrona: +3000c, +Sacred weapons and knowledge of priesthood. Once the capital of Esshar.
Grimmore Manor: +2000c. A large manor that houses secrets of the ancient nobility.
Starfall: +1500c. A small island that was constructed by a treaty between nations some years ago.
Celestial Ruins: +1500c. A forgotten temple that was once said to house a goddess of the stars. 
Baleford Bridge: +1500c. A large bridge that acts as the main hub for trade and commerce.