[EMPIRE4!] IC Thread

[Gengy]

Round 30
[Sultanate of Regno]
Desert of Magic regions: Regno (8), Iadesh (7), Jherki (9), Deaux (56), Avegan (3)
[Imperial Sultana Venusa Regno, Grand Magus of Initia, Mother of Silence, Embodiment of the Aspect of Spirit, A Founder of the Sunajin]

Actions:

1. [Military] WAR Reclaim Thae Guceart with 1 unit, led by Speaker Hufar Alqubur of Sycoraxistan.
   
   Spoiler: Battle Bonuses (+8)

   Show

   1 Unit
   Prayer Seals (+1 for battles led by a General, +2 Leader Loss Roll)
   Camel Cavalry, Enchanted Arrows, Stochiophraktoi (+3, +1 Enemy Loss Rolls if Victorious, +4 Tactics Roll)
   Hard Iron Armor, White Sails Phalanx (+2)
   Elemental Catapults (+2)
   Bani Bowls (-1 Combat Losses for 2 or more Combat Losses)
   Sacrificial Magic Supply Lines (-1 Size Loss Roll)
   Diresnags (+1 Opponent Size Loss Roll)
   [TACTICS] Byonic Tactics (+2 to Battle Roll)
   
   Total: +8, +2 if Tactics Roll Victory, +3 if CSC, +2 Leader Loss Roll, +1 Enemy Loss Rolls if Victorious, +4 Tactics Roll, -1 Combat Losses for 2 or more Combat Losses, -1 Size Loss Roll, +1 Opponent Size Loss Roll
   
   
   The victory by the Overvann came with a heavy cost to their lives and little loss to the Sultanate's own troops, but Thae Guceart was still attacked, and is still being held by warmongers. Though it is not Regno's preferred method of combat, they gather what forces they can and attack.
2. [Military] WAR Hrothgar Deathseeker attacks Overvann's capital (Region 89) with 3 of Regno's finest troops to support him.
   
   Spoiler: Battle Bonuses (+19)

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   Hrothgar Deathseeker [Mil 8]
   Hrothgar's Wrath [+1d4 Combat]
   3 Units
   Prayer Seals (+1 for battles led by a General, +2 Leader Loss Roll)
   Camel Cavalry, Enchanted Arrows, Stochiophraktoi (+3, +1 Enemy Loss Rolls if Victorious, +4 Tactics Roll)
   Hard Iron Armor, White Sails Phalanx (+2)
   Elemental Catapults (+2)
   Bani Bowls (-1 Combat Losses for 2 or more Combat Losses)
   Expanded Holds (-1 Distance Loss)
   Diresnags (+1 Opponent Size Loss Roll)
   [TACTICS] Byonic Tactics (+2 to Battle Roll)
   
   Total: +19, +1d4 Combat, (Tactics bonus +2), +2 Leader Loss Roll, +1 Enemy Loss Rolls if Victorious, +4 Tactics Roll, -1 Combat Losses for 2 or more Combat Losses, -1 Distance Loss, +1 Opponent Size Loss Roll
   
   
   Hrothgar Deathseeker wants Overvann blood. Regno is inclined to give it to him. Vengeance for him, and death to the warmongers from the north! They send volunteers to go with him, braving the harsh wild magic of Sycoraxistan and launching ships to invade the Overann's capital itself!
3. [Military] Defend the Kunai, region 54, with 5 Units, led by the Kunai's Beta.
   
   Spoiler: Battle Bonuses (+14/+17)

   Show

   5 Units
   Prayer Seals (+1 for battles led by a General, +2 Leader Loss Roll)
   Camel Cavalry, Enchanted Arrows, Stochiophraktoi (+3, +1 Enemy Loss Rolls if Victorious, +4 Tactics Roll)
   Hard Iron Armor, White Sails Phalanx (+2)
   Elemental Catapults (+2)
   Magi Blessed Scrolls (+1 Defense)
   [Relic] Banner of Unity (-1 size loss in coalition battle)
   Bani Bowls (-1 Combat Losses for 2 or more Combat Losses)
   Expanded Holds (-1 Distance Loss)
   Diresnags (+1 Opponent Size Loss Roll)
   [TACTICS] Headhunting [i5 NOT used if unnamed leader, per Head GM]
   (+3) CSC Units
   
   Total: +14 (+17) Defensive Combat Roll, +2 for battles led by a General, +2 Leader Loss Roll, +1 Enemy Loss Rolls if Victorious, +4 Tactics Roll, -1 size loss in coalition battle, -1 Combat Losses for 2 or more Combat Losses
   
   
   Just a message. Just an innocent message from Varjik. One that wasn't even agreed to. That was all it took for the Pride to send a massive armed force to the Kunai capital. Regno wanted peace. Now the Rakshasa will have thier Pride smashed. To help this, a price is placed on the head of the Mahaja or his general; no one is to kill them outside of honorable combat, but Sinja has been unreasonable in his demands and styles himself a god-king. Regno seeks to prove him wrong.
4. [Diplomacy] Hire the Company of the Crescent to help defend Kuniumi.
   Calling in age old favors, the Sultanate hires the renowned mercenary company to help defend their vassal in the south. The fact that this will deprive the Overvann of their support in the north does not go unnoticed...
5. [Economy] Buyout Livestone from the Overvann in Tevrus
   UNSupported Buyout of first Trade Post, Region 90, [Bonuses] Expanded Holds, OMC Rank 5, OMC Rank 7; Roll: 21
   
6. [Economy] Buyout Stonewood from the Pride in Jintha
   UNSupported Buyout of first Trade Post, Region 108, [Bonuses] Expanded Holds, OMC Rank 5, OMC Rank 7, Fish Glue; Roll: 25
   Allies in Jintha still exist. Though the raids from the Pride cause damage to many merchants, Regno chooses to work inside the law, and makes efforts to buy more Stonewood, with thanks to Volzen merchants there.

Roll link 1

Non-Actions:

• Allow Vassals to pass through Sultanate lands as needed
• Resist conversion of Initia HCs into any other religion within Regno owned regions
• Resist raids of owned Trade Posts [26.2 = 13, 105.1 = Autofail]
• Amham Embassy
  
• Izbefe Embassy
  
  • In a grand ceremony, held in Avegan, formally turn over the governance of the region to Izbefe's ruler, Queen Sigyn. (Gift Izbefe Region 3)
  • One of the Avegan Warbands that was formerly serving Regno's defensive needs, pledges itself to Izbefe. (Gift Izbefe one unit)
  • Gift Izbefe Headhunting
• Clanlands Embassy
  
  • Gift the Kunai Camel Calvary and Headhunting
• Dvalta Embassy
  
  • Formally request whatever aid Dvalta can spare to protect Thae Guceart from the attack of the Overvann and those from Whern. Even if it's something as simple as trying to cut off a supply route.
• Khirus Embassy
  
  • Formally request whatever aid Khirus or it's vassals can spare to assist in the unprovoked attack from the Pride against the Kunai, even if it's something as simple as trying to cut off a supply route.
• Karys Embassy
  
  • -Currently Defunct-
  • Though it takes a while to arrive, a missive to Karys from Regno does eventually reach them: Regno is interested in re-opening lines of communication, but because of the attacks from the Overvann and the Pride, cannot currently spare the construction crews and various ships that it would take to properly do so at this time. Should peace return in one, or both, war fronts then Regno will be endeavoring to aid Karys in rebuilding.
• Theocracy of Coatl
  

Spoiler: News and Rumors

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• Though there are many whom mourn General Arunca Newbess's passing, none blame the Jintha's General. It was a battle of honor, and one held with dignity. Any anger felt by it is, oddly, directed towards the Serene Masara Pride. When the Legionnaires are clearing away Arunca's old home near the border of Dvalta's lands, they find some of his journals... including some very interesting ideas regarding defensive maneuvers. It will take years to properly research - much less train the Legionnaires on how to use them - but many are very excited about Arunca's Offense.
• Tacere and Privire are fifteen years old. Tacere is named the Heir to the Sultanate, and is sent to spend time with the Father of Silence. Her power with Initita is, quite frankly, amazing. She is accompanied by a small guard squadron whom are all Initiates; a requirement for her to be able to communicate with them. Privire, on the other hand, finds a great deal of joy in staying in Regno and making a myriad of friends among the many families. She travels around the Five Cities of Regno, and is quickly becoming something of a young - and skilled - matchmaker. Her Grand-Uncle, Viclean Sortis, Jr, accompanies her.
• Queen Sigyn has become, inexplicably, popular within Avegan after her victories against Mad King Dafi. The warrior farmers of the region, after five years of debates, in agreement with each other, and petition the Sultana to allow for them to fall once again under the governance of Izbefe. Sultana Venusa at first, wonders if Regno has done something wrong, but it is quickly explained to her that no, Regno has done everything right. Yet after the fights against Dafi, Izbefe has been slow to rebuild it's armies; and Avegan is better able to respond to any internal and external threats to Izbefe lands. They are volunteering to help become the defenders of the area. With that in mind, Sultana Venusa cannot refuse, and a ceremony is held, formally turning over the region's control to Regno's long-time vassal.
• The Dragons of the world continue to mystify and bother those within Regno. While most of the Sultanate's residents agree that each Dragon should be judged accordingly to their actions - and their willingness to talk versus making demands - there are still a number of people whom wonder just what is the purpose of the Cinder Queen's desire to 'own' Avakonia. Other than to say that it is hers, there is no discernible reason that anyone can fathom. Khrius and the former Concordance of Azenhal seem slow to respond to inquiries...
• When word of the Power Struggle in Palmor reaches the Sultana, she is slow to figure out whom the Sultanate chooses to support. None of the current factions have candidates that Regno really understands or feels would benefit the Sultanate at this time, but it would be an insult - and potentially dangerous - to abstain. Based on the reports that merchants from the area and the School in Azenhal pass back, the Three Towers is able to determine the candidates it does not recommend. Igmar Scaleshield, for instance, will be more likely continue to harry and harass Dvalta on the Cinder Queen's orders. Astérionnag Dyfex of Tria Sanctus seems to have stronger ties to the Overvann than Regno likes. While Regno does not exactly oppose Vampirism, now that it is out in the open, they dislike the rumors that Malthusias from Atrisia may very well be insane. This leaves the Abhidist Monk, Brother Jorjian, and the merchant supported Municep Udu. Either of these two in charge would be acceptable to Regno, and Sultana Venusa - after having conversations with several other foreign dignitaries - sends word that the Sultanate will support either, but favors the merchants and guilds that work together with Municep Udu of Thune. (RGO Support for Power Struggle goes to Udu)
• Roads to Sycoraxistan are tricky things. While it is easy to get to their borders, beyond that proves troublesome, even for the skilled builders of the Liber Family. Yet, with Sycorax guides and some additional Stone Magi, a - mostly safe - road is built through the region. Like in the desert, the road is several feet off the ground. Unlike the desert roads, nearly all of the road is made from Granite imported from other regions. Except when specifically and hurriedly instructed by the Sycoraxi guides, the Stone Magi of the Liber Family refrain from using any local earth or rock. Apparently, there were several times, however, where a particular boulder would have been insulted if it were not made a part of the construction. The Liber Family is very well paid for their efforts. And given weregild for when the region eats one of their less attentive workers.
• The Sycoraxistan Ambassador and his assistant continue to live, and continue to develop a written guide for other visitors. The third rule is "Beware the Storms. They seek to kill you. Yes. You. Specifically." Lightning has been confirmed to not be a random thing in the region, and much like everything else in Sycoraxistan, has a mind of it's own. There are additional words regarding what the Sycorax consider to be 'storms', and the attitude regarding them refers back to the second rule.
• Regno children hand gestures continue to evolve, and spread out to other regions. Jherki and Iadesh kids now have their own handshakes. One intrepid Speaker has managed to find a child that claims to have met the elusive 'Shadow Eyes', who was actually teaching the various hand gestures to the children of the region. This is dismissed as a made up story from an imaginative young mind.
• Alteto Yaldean Sortis Regno in Jintha is very upset when Regnan merchants of the region are attacked by members of the Serene Pride. Entire shipments of Stonewood are destroyed during the assault. He lodges a formal complaint with the Volzen, and proceeds to use his not inconsiderable wealth to secure additional shipments... buying them straight from the Volzen who normally sell to the Pride.
• While many in Emjata view the battle in Thae Guceart as a loss for Regno, the Sultanate is not as disturbed by the temporary back foot that they have been placed on. From a numbers perspective, they won that battle, bleeding the enemy quite profusely, and other than the... overeager charge from the Shock Troops of Thae Guceart, barely lost anyone. Many are quite cross with Magi Vecto for the
• The Undead General, Hrothgar Deathseeker, comes as something of a surprise to those of Regno. Guildleader Arata Doceo volunteers to help guide the man around the region, which for some reason, seems to mollify quite a number of people in the Three Towers. Hrothgar Deathseeker does not stay long in Regno, though, as the Sultana is quick to gather forces to strike back on the Overvann capital itself. Volunteers for the mission are told that this is likely going to be a bloody battle, and unlike the fight in Thae Guceart, little hope of returning alive. Still, thousands of stalwart heroes step up, seeking to honor their families and bring glory to the Sultanate. They travel through Sycoraxistan, and while a few are lost to the need to defecate the mushrooms that jumped into their mouths, nearly all of the army manages to launch ships towards the capital. General Deathseeker's orders are carried out quickly, efficiently, and without argument. It is rumored that he is very surprised that no one has attempted to fight him for command yet, and he seems both pleased and bothered by this.
• The Remains of the Dead Dragon are removed from Regnan hands, and a wave of relief washes over the people. There are still some Speakers whom are disappointed that their research subject was taken away, but the Three Towers is quick to point out that everyone is sleeping much better now. Including those Speakers. And if they continue to quibble, the Three Towers can find them new research. Perhaps an extended study of the Long Winter in Bhule? Or find out if the 'Ridi'r are more accepting of Oamenii now that they have moved to the far southeast? Complaints are quick to drop.
• The Sultanate gaze upon the Pridelands in disgust. They continue to harass and harry the Kunai, for the simple reason that the Clans have chosen to ally themselves with Regno. Sultana Venusa can no longer stand discussing the matter, and becomes incensed when she hears that the Serene Pride is attacking Kuniumi itself. She almost flies off to assist in the battle herself, but Magi Vecto - now too old to do much more than advise from Sortis - cautions her against such actions. Instead, Regno informs the Pride, through it's last leaving diplomat, that the so called 'god-king' or whatever leader he sends to this battle is marked for death from honorable combat.
• Venusa has another child. Though the young baby girl has no obvious dragon-like qualities about her at first, when she matures enough to open her eyes, they are a bright amber color, with flecks of grey in them. Combined with the child's dark hair that she grows out, it is a fact that Venusa dotes on the young girl, and is often not seen without her nearby.
• Whern is sent a letter from Regno, which seems to indicate that if they continue to support the Overvann in these battles, then the former vassal region to the Sultanate will not be easily forgiven. Especially as the region seems to have properly purchased the techniques for Camel Cavalry only to use it against the Sultanate. Further attempts to buy technologies will be denied. Attempts to steal them will be met with resistance. If Whern reconsiders their support, Regno will do what it can to aid them, and help to forestall Overvann repercussions. Whatever Whern decides... Regno learns. Regno remembers.
• Harentse - Desert Lizard Folk - are rather rare in the Legionnaires. It's not that the Harentse are not unwilling; far from it, as they are often valued quite heavily for their battle prowess and their scouting abilities. They are just not as numerous as other races within the Sultanate, so compared to Oamenii and Humans, the Lizard Folk whom live in the hottest parts of the hottest deserts in Jherki are just not as common in the varied military that makes up the Regnan Defenders. Which is why, when people suddenly start talking about their skills at making leather, many are surprised and impressed. Researchers from Regno visit Harentse lands to find out what it is they are using, and return with disturbing rumors. In addition to Sandboar - a very common source of leather in the Sultanate - the Harentse and their Shaman have developed methods that, they claim, best honor their dead. Warriors who fought all through life are after peaceful death, according to Harentse customs, skinned for their scales and leather, so that while their spirits pass on to the next realm, their bodies can continue to fight and protect their families.
• Non-Harentse races in the Legionnaires are quick to ensure that their leather is not from a dead comrade in arms, and while a vast majority are fine, several do find out that they have Harentse leather and more than a few discover that the Shamanistic Lizard Folk have made leather from Pegasi whom died in their care. Sultana Venusa is not amused to hear this, but after verifying the veracity, and determining that it is part of Harentse customs, she and Magi Vecto issue orders that anyone using Harentse leather that was not gifted to them by a Harentse is to stop, immediately. Those whom were gifted their armor by the Lizard Folk are told, quite plainly, to not disrespect another person's traditions regarding death. Humans in the Sultanate - outside of Jherki - are still appalled by the idea, but since Oamenii traditions are to honor the dead according to one's family rites, they are more accepting.
• Regno issues a formal apology to Ti Linnad regarding the Pegasi leather that has been used, and promises that they will continue to honor the beautiful creatures, always. As far as the Sultana has been able to determine, only Pegasi whom have died naturally have had their bodies used in the... Harentse... fashion. There are still rumors, though, of merchants in Iadesh whom are willing to trade newer, younger, Pegasi for ones that are older and closer to death. And though it is scarce, Pegasi leather - from natural deaths - sells very well in Iadeshian markets.

Spoiler: Ruler Information

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Dragon Blooded - All future rulers of the Regno line will receive +1 Stat upon Ruler Rolls (chosen by the GM)
Lesser Dragon - Venusa Regno can turn into a Lesser Dragon and back at will

Sultana Venusa Regno	D	E	F	M	I
Current	7	10	8	10	5
End of round 25	0	0	0	2	0
End of round 26	1	2	0	0	0
End of round 27	0	1	0	2	0
End of round 28	0	0	1	1	0
End of round 29	0	0	0	2	0
End of round 30	0	0	0	0	0

New Ruler Next Round

Expected Stat Bonuses: +1 Intrigue?

Spoiler: Mechanical Bookkeeping

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Total Number of Initia Holy Orders: 3

Regno Controlled Trading Posts:

• Bani - Region 8, TP #1
• Bani - Region 8, TP #2
• Sapphires - Region 9, TP #3
• Corn - Region 33, TP #3
• Iadeshian Camels - Region 7, TP #1
• Iron - Region 12, TP#2
• Giant's Silk - Region 11, TP#2
• Moon Opals - Region 22, TP#1
• Granite - Region 26, TP#2
• Parchseed Oil - Region 51, TP#2
• Ships - Region 6, TP #3
• Medicinal Herbs - Region 89, TP #2
• Beer - Region 92, TP #1
• Millet - Region 5, TP #1
• White Bani - Region 36, TP #2
• Porphyra - Region 20, TP #2
• Labor Guilds - Region 62, TP#1
• Herring - Region 105, TP#2
• Copper - Region 30, TP#1
• Enku - Region 54, TP#3
• Tin - Region 18, TP #2
• Sedellan Glass - Region 58, TP#1
• Stonewood - Region 108, TP#2
• Pegasi - Region 21, TP#3
• Hlaali Bark - Region 56, TP#1

Technologies:
(Red = Requirements Not Met)
(Bold = Restricted Technology)

• Diplomatic Expedition (Exploration, Colonization, and Diplomacy Claim)
• Expanded Holds (Buyouts)
• Precision Weights (Buyouts)
• Standardized Currency (Support Buyouts)
• Fish Glue Manufacturing (1/round Econ)
• Full Course Discourse (Stabilization)
• Warded Locks (+2 Defend Thefts)
• Decentralized Authority (New Ruler Stat Increase)
• Spy Master (Can I5 a Spymaster)
• Mass Conscription (Extra Units)
• Red Herring Evidence (Defend Against Investigations of Secret Actions)
• Himitsu (+1 Resist Investigations)
• Coatlan Numerals (1/round Econ Bonus)
• Privacy Tapestries (Org Rolls / Secret Actions)
• Bani Bowls [Medicine]
• Camel Cavalry [Calvary]
• Refined Pician Weaponry [Weapons]
• Sacrificial Magic Supply Lines [Logistics]
• Hard Iron Armor [Armor]
• Heavy Wood Armor [Armor]
• Wingknights [Cavalry]
• Enchanted Arrows [Ranged]
• Enchanted Catapults [Siege]
• Aerial Bombardment [Tactics]
• Surplus Production [Siege]
• Salt Wagons [Supply]
• Signal Lamps [Tactics]
• Byonic Tactics [Tactics]
• Headhunting [Tactics]
• Standardized Fortification [Siege]
• Dwarven Fortifications [Siege]
• Wave Bombing [Siege]
• Diresnags [Traps]
• Prayer Seals [Armor/Ward]
• Stochiophraktoi [Cavalry AND Ranged Weapons]
• Sedellan Armor Coating [Armor/Ward]
• Coin Armor [Armor/Ward]
• Magi Blessed Scrolls [Divination]
• Living Wall [Fortifications]
  .
• Feth Dens (Destabilization)
• Meteorological Navigation (+1 Exploration Rolls)
• Blood Bullion (+1 to Faith Action 1/round)
• Magical Indicator (+1 to Magical Investigations)
• Obsidian Fire [Siege]
• Inyoni Skyfarers [Live Weapons]
• Black Blood [Tactics]
• Impaler Palisades [Traps]
  

Military Units:

• 4 [Legionnaires]
• 2 [Sea Wolves]
• 2 [Stormvine Shock Troops]
• 2 [Avegan Warband]
• Magi Vecto [+8 Mil General] {Very Old; Soon to Retire}
• Magi Rubrum Nisip [+8 Mil General]
• Hrothgar Deathseeker [+Mil 8 General, gives +1d4 to battles he’s in, leader loss effects are doubled]