Loudness Between Shadow & Light

[Greystone]

The world is in a twilight, neither dark nor light. The leaders of factions have all been invited (well practically ordered) by their respective Overlords to the first formal meeting of the nations in hundreds of years.

The stones of Broken Light Keep are old and gray, the ancient fortifications weathered and battered. It had traded hands many times, and the blood of nobility stained the ground as well as the blood of the commoner.

The High King Wilham Lars and Grand Marshal Cassandra Nilyina both have agreed that a place of such contestation was a fitting place for the bonds of peace to be forged.

The delegates and any retainers are filed into the Main entry Hall to await the call to enter the main chamber. Soldiers of both the Shadow and the Light dressed in Grey uniforms stand at attention.

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A good place to introduce your Leader and interact

[Wizard of the Coat]

Deja

Xandro stood in his laboratory, his skeletal arms deep in some unfortunate that happen to be suitable to his latest experiment, as Baron Vochia entered. The liches piercing eyes fell upon his vampiric minnion, who stood there in anticipation, and then turned to his experiment. Soon a beating heart emerged in the left hand of the lich who held it out and seemed to study it's pulse.

Vochia felt dark energies surge through the room as the heart crumpled and shriveled in the liches clutch. "How dissapointing" the lich spoke finally "this one had real potential." Without hesitation the lich placed the heart on top of the lifeless corpse and several of his cloacked apprentices emmerged from the shadows to take it away. Another zombie for his legions then the baron thought.

"Baron, I have a mission for you." the liches words had brought the vampire back into reality and away from the trickle of blood that streamed from the corpse. "whatever you wish my liege" the minion said with an air of aristocratic contempt.

The lich stared intently at the vampire, who cowered under his masters gaze. "Take the sunshade amulet I have prepared for you, take it and go to the meeting at the Broken Light Keep, I think you remember it well." The vampire did indeed, as it was in that place that he lost his mortal life.

He was once a promising human aristocrat, young and talented he had led his fathers army to defend the keep. Outnumbered by an endless stream of unliving troops he had no hope of surviving and yet he endured for weeks as the assault continued. When he was finally defeated Xandro, then a minor lich, had ofcourse realised his gift at command. A small vial of enchanted blood was emptied in his dying mouth and a new minnion was created. A minnion who's talents had allowed Xandro to overthrow his masters and now allowed him to rule over the fragile alliance of the Lichlords.

After some brief outlines the lich handed the ancient young man a scroll with instructions and dismissed him. Along with a battalion of warrior skelletons and carrying the with him an Orb of lost Souls, that could summon fiersome shades to his aid, he departed. The road naturally was long, but the undead did not need rest and would arive on time to set their first demand.

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At the conference the Baron was seated somewhat distant from his living counterparts, the amulet hidden under his fashionable robes, and most of what he did was watch and listen. The necromancers had no need for this peace, but his master had instructed him to co-operate nonetheless and make some territorial claims against the factions of light.

The ruined city of Stardas was of particular interest to the necromancers, afterall they had gone to great lengths to ensure the attrocity there had killed every single inhabitant. It was truly haunted and a superb place to bind the shadows of the departed into their service. Unfortunatly it was also on the Calafais side of the border. Still Deja's claim was as good as any for the original city had been independent.

@GM

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Starting to research into the dark diciples.

[Thelonius]

Vish

The War has fed Vish for a long time. Profits from food provisions for the troops and healing potions for the important army officials filled the Cult’s coffers. A string of refugees and soldiers seeking to escape the never ending horror of the frontlines in vast lands of Vish increased the population. The Cult’s direct assistance in two important sieges boosted the political standing among the Shadow Nations. Without the War there wouldn’t be Vish. And now it was apparently over.

Necromancer was wearing a ceremonial robe, embroiled with silver and gold as well as a few precious stones. Wizard’s face was concealed behind a white mask with triangle eye slits and a single black blotch above left eye. The small attachment of human guards that were more for ceremonial purposes then for actual combat stayed behind. Necromancer trusted the truce for protection. A little behind walked another nearly identical figure in the black robe. The only difference was that there were four black blotches scattered on the white mask.

The Necromancer respectfully inclined head at sight of Baron Xandro. There was little contact between Vish and Deja before, so it was their first meeting. It was unclear whether the Baron would return this small gesture.

GM

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What is the general mood in the nations of Shadow about the peace? Is it a genuine attempt, fear of mutual destruction or merely a pause to rally forces and resume?

[Wizard of the Coat]

((@ Vish: Baron Vochia is the representative for Deja, who has been the captain of it's armies for over a century. Xandro, the Lich, is a necromancer and Vochia's master. Vochia is to all observers an attractive human in his mid twenties.))

Deja

Vochia returned the gesture of respect from the mage sitting nearest to him, if anything the vampire was courtious. To casual observers he would merely be a young man selected to represent the necromancers interest, but few here had not heard of the vampire that lead the armies of Deja.

The presence of people like the cultists was probably the reason why his master had not opted to go himself, well that and the fear of assasination. Xandro, like all liches, despised these life-mages who has stolen and perverted the dark arts from the true necromancers of Deja and would not be able to hide his contempt. Vochia cared little for such ancient fueds and could be charming whenever he wanted to be, a talent further enhanced by his vampiric blood.

[Thelonius]

(OOC - Darn, how could I confuse the name, I mean it's Xandro)

Vish

The Necromancers of Vish harbored no doubts of the hatred the Liches of Deja felt towards them. After all there was the whole theft of arcane secrets deal and you can’t expect undead to forget any grudges. But Baron Vochia returned the gesture, so things will be kept civil. Necromancer relaxed a bit, which of course went unnoticed, since the mask concealed the face. While the war lasted, nations of Shadow couldn’t afford infighting. But now with their schedule free, the Liches just might wish to settle this old score. Peace sure is a dangerous time.

[Greystone]

To Thelonius

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The Shadow nations are mostly cowed by Cassandra's Iron Will. There is some dissent, but many nations are happy they can relax.

[Tichrondrius]

Gunter von Bielefeld

"It is only for a few days, do not worry Conrad." Gunter said, adjusting his clothes and wearing the traditional attire of royalty from the old days. It was an artifact from a previous time, but he really had nothing else to wear.

"I am not sure that I am able to handle things..." The younger man said, still unsure in his abilities. Conrad Heathcrife was to watch over things here while Gunter von Bielefeld went to the talks himself. Gunter believed by showing up himself it would further enforce peace.

"You will do fine, my friend." Gunter replied, clapping his hand on Conrad's shoulder. "The people love and respect you. You have helped them more then I have, by all rights you should be Vanguard now." He said with a laugh.

"Do not say that, Gunter. You know you are far more charismatic then I."

"And that, my friend, is the only reason I am going to the negotiations. You are the shield that defends while I am gone." He said gravely, still mistrustful of this supposed peace.

"I understand." Conrade replied, for he knew it was pointless to resist when Gunter was like this.

"Then, off I go. Try not to lose your head." Gunter said, laughing still, referring to a common way of referring to freaking out that harkined back to when the nobility was deposed. They certainly 'freaked out' that day. Conrade nodded grimly, and watched Gunter ride away inside his carriage, flanked on all sides by soldiers and escorts.
__________________________________________________ ________

Conrad Heathcrife

"How are things going on the improvements to our armor?" Conrad asked sharply, the scientist below him saying a chant over the odd looking metal.

"Sir, the Magi-Tech is fine, but..."

"I don't want to hear any buts. I want it to be perfect by the time Gunter returns."
__________________________________________________ __________

Gunter von Bielefeld

Gunter and his escorts were ushered into the main hall. He hadn't been here in many years... it seemed two of his associates were here as well. The much hated necromancers. Both of them. The Vanguard noted, eying the Vish.

"I bet that's where those damn goblins came from..." He muttered to himself, not thinking it for the first time. He scanned the room. Didn't look like any of the represenitives of the light were here yet. Fear seized him suddenly as he once again wondered if this was a trap set by the Light.

But no, William Lars was here.

Gunter shifted uncomfortably, putting one leg over the other in his chair. He was flanked by two of his common soldiers. Several escorts were also milling about his area.

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Working to Improve Magi-Tech.

[Bangles]

Calafais

Turning up early to take her seat Bangles, was in full and fully functional ceremonial armour. The breastplate interlaced with golden thread and the plates embossed with her families coat of arms. Her golden hair cascaded out of the helm and was shining and wavy. The helm had a long blue plume, matching her deep intelligent royal blue eyes. The only difference is that instead of having a plate armoured legs, she turned up in a ceremonial plate-skirt matching the rest of her armour. Down her back cascaded a deep purple robe with golden trim, and her heavy sword lay only at her side which she could quite easily use at the slightest notice.

Flanking her on the left was the commander of her ground forces; her brother; Erthwin also in full ceremonial regalia, yet with a deep red cape, signifying his slightly lower station than Bangles. On her right was her first cousin and leader of her homeland guard; Martha also in a red cape.

Behind this trooped twenty of the heavily armed elite guards with their traditional full long spears and swords at the sides. As she marched past the already seated vampire she sneered at him and pointedly asked

"I suppose you do support this, tired of getting beaten by our forces in one on one confrontations? And don't worry we still remember Stardas"

Taking her seat she motioned for the two royals to flank her and the guard to stand behind ready at a moments notice.

As the High King Wilham Lars walks past she hands him a letter with the royal wax seal of Calafais on it and a note saying : Open Later and talk to me. After all one had come to expect preferential treatment after having been at the forefront of crushing charge after charge after so many years.

To DM

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Sending scouts to the border with the necromancers land, and a few just past it to watch troop movements and any build ups.

In the letter :

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I have heard rumblings in the necromanctic lands for a few years now, if any mages could be spared for defence this would greatly be appreciated. I do expect them to attempt to take the old city or Stardas first, so will attack them just outside that if they do march and then attempt a defence inside.

Looking into anyway of bolstering the countries defensive capabilities.

[puppyavenger]

Therilian mageocracy

Magos Jonathon Thrakos arrived a few minuted before the proceedings started. He was a youngish (160 years old) elf, he was wearing ceremonial mages robes, and followed by two ogerish bodyguards. walking switly he quickly took a seat next to the other two mages, with his bodyguards hovering close by.

GM

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Pming you actions/plans

[Wizard of the Coat]

Deja

The vampire smiled at the emotional entry of Bangles the Shiny, he had her right where he wanted her.

"My dear lady, for one who is called the Shiny, you seem to have an awfully guilty conscience. Allready having to bring up Stardas before even being properly seated or waiting for the others to arive." Vochia spoke eloquently and calmly. "It is good though that you remember that you should return it to it's legitimate owners in Deja and we applaud you on your open mindset for these peace talks."

[Thelonius]

Vish

Necromancer politely greeted the two Shadow nation leaders and moved to extend the same courtesy to the first member of the Light to arrive, but was discouraged by the provocative exchange that took place almost immediately. It was already apparent how different Shadow and Light were. The Shadow side was represented by the masters of the arcane arts as well as magi-tech of Gunter von Bielefeld. The Light was represented by armored Lady of War and her troops. Sorcery against Swords, huh…

[puppyavenger]

Therilian mageocracy

Johnathan replied to the necromancer It's a pleasure to meet you as well. So what's your view on the peace process?

[Innis Cabal]

The delegation of The Empire of the Cresent send a single govener to the meeting, wearing a facade as the second prince of the nation of Santi, a small monstly unimportant vally country that supplies the lands of the Light with grain

[Greystone]

Actually High King Wilhem of the Light and Grand Marshal Nilyana are no where to be seen. Presumably they are in the main chamber, as you are only in the entry.

At the verbal sniping a Captain of the Guard marches up "Please, this is a diplomatic meeting, we do not need such antagonism."

Bangles

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The letter could be given to one of the King's aides

[Wizard of the Coat]

((OOC: Unless you introduce something I don't believe much will be discussed, which would be a shame. You just killed the only discussion we had going. Verbal retorts are just a tool of diplomacy, watch a good UN debate on a hot topic. As for Vochia he's like Bismark, he'll tell someone their're lower then pond skum, but do it politely.

"Be polite; write diplomatically; even in a declaration of war one observes the rules of politeness." - Otto von Bismark))

[Falconer]

Whoa! A lot going on here already!

The Holy Empire of the Moon and Stars

Risulf, Knight Commander of the Order of the Northern Lights

Commander Risulf and his staff (a temple inquisitor, two officers, a mage, and several knights of Risulf's order if you must know), accompanied by several elite guards, enter the hall. Risulf is a grizzled old campaigner: he'd been fighting in the War since he had joined the Knights as a young man, and slowly risen in the ranks battle by battle. Crusade by crusade. Massacre by massacre. He did not like the peace; he had seen too many of his men die, he thought, not to see the this war to the finish. But his place was not to question orders. His place was to serve the Emperor and Arman.

With a brief salute he introduces himself, "Greetings. I am Knight Commander Risulf, of the Order of the Northern Lights. " his advisors behind him likewise salute. "We represent His Highness the Emperor."

[puppyavenger]

Turning to Risulf Johnathan replied Greetings, it's nice to meet you.

[Greystone]

((OOC: Much as I appreciate the comment, You missed one important thing. He asked, and did not order. They are new to Diplomacy on such a scale and are frankly wary of a full-out bloodbath.))

A light diplomat in the robes of a very important minster opens the main doors "Lords and Ladies of the Nations, the council begins"

The council chamber has been refitted so large stands, similar to the ones at a jousting tournament, were set up in a ring. There is a stand for each great faction and several smaller ones for the less influencial.

[Bangles]

Calafais

Standing up as soon as the minister enters she Bangles strides straight in through the open doors.

She doesn't bother replying to the vampire, he was after all just trying to goad her into replying and letting her cool facade slip. She sneered and moved on.

Into the main hall she went and strode straight to her chair on one of the largest stands, sat down and collected her thoughts.

Staring around the chamber she takes everything in and everyone else who walks in now.

GM

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She'll keep hold of it untill the king deigns to talk to her. After all its not like he can afford to ignore her after this.

[Falconer]

The Holy Empire of the Moon and Stars

Commander Risulf turns and looks at Johnathan with an obvious look of dislike. "I have journeyed hundreds of miles to speak with equals, not with spawn of the dark like you." One of the knights snickers, but the rest of the Imperial delegates shoot Risulf a dark look, not because they disagreed, but because he had spoken so bluntly. A younger man in black, priestly robes steps forward, gives a halfhearted attempt at a respectful bow, and and speaks. "Greetings, son of the Shadow. We...look forward to these upcoming negotiations. It is indeed an..." he pauses, as if trying to choose his words carefully, "unusual opporunity, is it not?"

Once the doors open, the Imperial delegates wordlessly file into their stand and quietly murmur amongst themselves.

((OOC: Just a note, there may be some...debate... between the High King and the Imperial representatives. The Empire is of the opinion that an Emperor outranks some silly "High King", and as such they don't feel obligated to follow his orders. During the war they were probably the same way: following the King's orders in the end, but only after a lot of arguing and other such politics, and even then they say its only because they have a common enemy. Quite frankly, the Empire has a superiority complex.))

[Thelonius]

Vish

Before the Council

Necromancer struggled to remember who exactly the wizard was. The Therilian Mageocracy came to mind, though it spoke very little. Necromancer proceeded to softly whisper to Johnathan.

To puppyavenger

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The peace doesn’t seem to be a long-term prospect. Just look at those Light Nation representatives. Empire of Crescent didn’t send their leaders, only some second Prince. They don’t treat this council seriously. The rest are barely holding back from splitting our skulls. They’ve become more warriors then rulers.

The Council

Necromancer decided to take the initiative. The masked figure spoke in a soft voice:

Greetings to all of the nations, both Shadow and Light. I’m the First, representing here the Shadow nation of Vish. Allow me to propose the first item of the agenda for this council.

There are many wounds left by the War, disputes which this Council will need to address eventually. But by entering into them now, before any goodwill between our nations was established we risk our fragile peace.

Therefore I propose as first item of the agenda we discuss the opportunities the Peace presents, something that we all can work and profit from together. I’m speaking of encouraging international trade.

The borders of our nations were for a long time a no man’s land - bridges burned, wells poisoned, roads worn out to dirt. Why not start a large scale project to rebuild the roads and all necessary infostructure to allow growth of trade. This would lead to strengthening of the Peace, as our nation’s cultures will interact and our citizens will see we are not so different after all. This project also promises employment and good return on the investment.

I also propose a formation of an independent organization that will oversee maintaining of the roads and encouragement of trade. It will finance itself by taking tolls from the passing merchants.

[Greystone]

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Two things guys, it was going slow since I was just giving everyone a chance to post. 2nd, I'm going to be gone till tommorrow afternoon so have fun discussing!

A strong feminine voice rings out "Taking the initiative Necromancer? I like that. But isn't it normal for the heads of a council to call it to order?" Grand Marshal Nilyana said with a slightly teasing tone.

She wasn't being disrespectful, but even as grand marshal she was laid back and had cultivated an odd sense of humor. She can't help herself.

"That was such an excellent suggestion that I believe we should start with that" The podium where she is on is suddenly fully illuminated. She is dressed in her form fitting, ebony armor, dark green runes etched in the plate. She is pale with long black hair. Eyes that literally looks like a big Cat's, with the yellow-green eyes and slit pupil, stared directly at the crowd.

Next to her on a equally magnificent throne was the High King. He was dressed in flowing robes of cloth of gold. A Ruby amulet sits on his neck and the ceremonial crown of state rested apon his head.

The blond man spoke " A minute please Grand Marshal" When she inclined her head the man stood and pointed a figure at the delegate from The Holy Empire of the Moon and Stars "What defiance is this? Does your Emperor not remember that without the Light, and through us this pact, your country would exist no more? You will have no voting privileges here, as you a-"

Grand Marshal Nilyina put a cautionary hand on the King and said "We are willing to overlook this oversight since you are not the only one without a head. However you seem to be of secondary purpose, an expendable to send to this convention. Simply remember who you are speaking to and" she turns to the entire crowd at large "To ALL of you keep your tongues in check. Debate is fine but insults should be carefully pruned"

The High King nodded "This peace process is the most important thing we can possibly achieve in our life time, so I believe Necromancer has the floor?"

Cassandra nods and both are seated.

[Wizard of the Coat]

Deja

The vampire merely glanced at the Grandmarshalls words, almost disrespectfull in his nonchalant attitude towards being 'expendable', but fortunatly he was wise. Instead of making a sign of objection however he carefully nodded and agreed thereby showing diplomatically he wasn't allowing himself to sidetracked but he also wasn't about to disrespect a higher authority. He knew perfectly well how not to push things too far. Turning his ears to the life-mage he seemed to carefully follow every word of his shadow compatriot.

As he waited he carefully summoned an aid to his side, a slender woman who was far to pale to be fully alive, yet did not seem to have the inner fire that a lich or a vampire would. Clearly a thrall to the vampire or perhaps an apprentice necromancer. He looked at her and she merely nodded and slipped back into the shadows. in the next room, where the assistance sit in waiting she takes several notes from her robes and she carefully moved to each of the leaders assitants and without speaking provided them with one of these notes.

All notes look alike and were written with a most gracious hand, signed by Baron Vochia and adressed to the full titles of those present.

@Holy Empire of the Moon and Stars

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Would you care to meet with me in my humble quarters once todays dealings are over? It seems we have much in common and could co-operate on a greater level then before.

@Gunter

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Are you still interested in our services? Afterall our minnions can be used most effectively to ensure a steady supply of guards as well as efficient and untiring laborers. With your own enhancements they certainly would be magnificent indeed. We can ofcourse keep this between ourselves.

@Calafais

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We would be amenable to agree upon a demiliterized zone along your border, such would lower tensions between us.

@Others

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The Nation of Deja wishes to extend it's hand in friendship and wonders if you would sign a trade agreement with us. We can offer you our fine magical and alchemical wares and in return we seek raw materials, gemstones and exotic herbs.

[Falconer]

[spoiler]
The blond man spoke " A minute please Grand Marshal" When she inclined her head the man stood and pointed a figure at the delegate from The Holy Empire of the Moon and Stars "What defiance is this? Does your Emperor not remember that without the Light, and through us this pact, your country would exist no more? You will have no voting privileges here, as you a-"

Grand Marshal Nilyina put a cautionary hand on the King and said "We are willing to overlook this oversight since you are not the only one without a head. However you seem to be of secondary purpose, an expendable to send to this convention. Simply remember who you are speaking to and" she turns to the entire crowd at large "To ALL of you keep your tongues in check. Debate is fine but insults should be carefully pruned"

The High King nodded "This peace process is the most important thing we can possibly achieve in our life time, so I believe Necromancer has the floor?"

Cassandra nods and both are seated.

As soon as the High King utters the words, "no voting priveleges", Commander Risulf and his party rises, clearly furious. "You Highness this is an outrage! It is an affront to the rights of the Imper-" Both the High King and the Knight Commander only get a few shouted words in before the Grand Marshall interrupts both of them. Risulf sighs, and sits back down to listen to what the Marshall has to say. When she describes him as an "expendable" Risulf's expression darkens noticeably, but he says nothing.

When the Imperial stand receives the Baron Vochia's note, Risulf surreptitiously opens and reads it, gives a sullen sigh, and hands it over to another member of Empire's diplomats, the Archmage Fircas. She scans it before hastily scribbling a response.

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"Unfortunately the Knight Commander Risulf feels the negotiations here are too much already. However, I have been granted permission to represent the Empire in this way."

((OOC: You see, Risulf's response would have written "Go to Hell", but he realized that would probably not be in the Empire's interest. He still bears nothing but ill will towards Deja for several sucessful attacks on Imperial heartland during the war. Some of the Imperial delegates, however, have actually learned subtlety.

And as another note, I propose we come up with some general ideas of how the war was going for each faction before the Truce. The Empire, for instance, contributed a heck of a lot of manpower to the war and gave the Shadow a lot of grief in the South, but perhaps Deja was slowly but surely pushing into Imperial lands and were well on their way to the capital before the Truce was declared. The Empire needed the truce. They just don't like to admit it.))

[puppyavenger]

Before the Council

Johnathan replied to Necromancer

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Personally I find it funny how we haven't seen anything resembling a non-feudal government on the "light" side. Anyway, this peace is going to fall apart as soon as some border count accidentally crosses into his opposites territory. Or the Light is going to break into a civil war. I'm just hoping for some peace to continue our research

Reading the note from the Deja, he quickly scribbles down a reply and an imp flies it to the Vampire

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We have a few gemstone mines that we'd be willing to trade the contents of. Some more detail on what you're offering would be appreciated

EDIt


Empire of Cresent

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Indeed. hopefully the peace will last long enough that people will see the benifets of it.

Greystone

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any NPC nations attending?

[Thelonius]

The necromancer wearing the mask with four black blotches silently delivers three sealed letters.

To The Holy Empire of the Moon and Stars

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My sincerest greetings to the Holy Empire of the Moon and Stars. On behalf of the Cult of Spirit I would like to propose a trade agreement. The Vish produces enough grain to keep our population fed and we would like to export our surplus to the Empire at reasonable prices.

Signed, The First

To Mageocracy of Theril

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I agree with your remark about the governance of the Light. In my nation we rule because we are useful to the people and they support us in return, not because we lay claim to a dubious divine right or decrepit tradition.

From our earlier conversation I’ve come to believe that we share the same passion for the pursuit of magical knowledge, rather then warfare and power struggles. I wish to inform you that my organization wouldn’t object to working on joint projects with researchers that share our beliefs.

Signed, The First

OOC – what is “live” magic? It sounds like something compatible with necromantic life magic.

To Hochländer

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Greetings to the Primarch of the proud people of Hochländer. On behalf of Cult of Spirit, I would like to inquire in the possibility of some of your mercenary companies to be hired by the people of my nation. The lands of Vish are still untamed and are plagued by the attacks of the wild goblins. The existing settlements and new immigrants would also surely benefit from assistance of the fortification experts, who will be reasonably compensated for their services.

Signed, The First

[puppyavenger]

Looking at the Note, Johnathan wrote his reply on the back and handed the letter to the courier

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A joint research project would most interesting. Do you have anything specific in mind?
signed Magos Jonathon Thrakos

OOC: conjuration, evocation and stuff like that, picked a name out of thin air

[Falconer]

The Empire of the Moon and Stars

As the necromancer seemed to have finished, Knight Commander Risulf takes the floor and addresses those present.

"I could not help but notice that these sides of Light and Shadow are unfairly represented. For the representatives of the Shadow outnumber those of the light. The Hochlanders have not yet arrived to speak their interests. Why is this?"

He turns to the High King and Grand Marshall.

"Furthermore, your honors, this news is rather recent and perhaps you have not heard: the noble Emperor Staldr the Strong perished only a few weeks ago. He was slain by a necrotic plague," for a split second he glares at the Dejans and Vish, "that up until the Truce had ravaged our nation and people. The throne of the Empire is now held by his eldest son, the Emperor Dagr the Pious, may-he-live-forever. It is for his sake that we attend this council, and for his sake that our war effort has ceased...for now."


A note is quietly passed to Vish, from the Archmage Fircas

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"I'm certain we are in need of a food surplus, as the war has taken more than its fair toll on the people of north. Perhaps, however, it is a bit early to be discussing open trade between former enemies. There are still many wounds that need healing and scores to be settled, it seems."

[Gig_Complex]

Hochländer

Primarch Sankiss

The faint sound of pressed marching can be heard from beyond the main doors of the council chambers, along with the sounds of guards issuing warnings in worried voice. Soon a harsh pounding on the main doors rings throughout the chamber before both doors are kicked open and a mountain of a man emerges. Primarch Sankiss is swathed head to toe in the tools of killing and battle; none bear the lines of gilded beauty or craftsmanship for ceremonious weapons and armor, instead each shows the wear and tear of frequent use, indeed some are still covered in blood as if they had just been recently used. His personal guard, each one a member of the war band that aided him in his capture of Rookfell Castle spread out before heading to the back rooms to wait, leaving Primarch Sankiss and a handful of aides to take their spots under the banner of light.

As his aides take their seats while he remains standing, a grim smile splashed across his face, made all the grimmer by the horrific burn scars the cover his head. “You’ll have to excuse my tardiness, I ran into a spot of trouble with some bandits on my way here, but they will not be a bother anyone else now.” Sitting down he wipes a spot of blood off the hilt of a szabla with his marred white cloak before being interrupted by one of his aides carrying the two notes from the Vish and Deja representatives.

[i]In Response to The First of Vish,[i]

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You wish to hire my brethren to cleanse your lands? They would be pleased to do so and would not find fortifying your communities, for a reasonable price of course. I would be pleased to discuss the full details with you at the earliest opportunity.

In Response to Baron Vochia of Deja,

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Exactly what magical goods are you offering Baron Vochia? We have several mines which have been producing a surplus of ore for the past season which we may be reasoned to part with.

[Wizard of the Coat]

Deja

Though his outward appearance was attentive as ever inwardly Baron Vochia was pleased. The ploy on his imperial majesty had worked, now some inexperienced git was on the throne. His campaign just got a little easier.

"May we offer our condoleances for your loss Commander Risulf" the words came out genuinely, feeling like a diplomatic knife stabbing them in the back as only Risulf would realise that the vampire probably meant not a word of it "We hope you will convey our sympathies to your new emperor and your people."

@Hochlander

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Potions, wands and other magical utilities designed to make the life of people a little easier. The kind depends on the needs of your markets, the wands could be blasting forth energy if your armies need the firepower, yet if you would merely want to light up your cities every night without the risk of torches setting things on fire we can provide the answer in rune stones or levitating platforms to help your builders. Our secrets are ancient, from before this war even, ask and we shall be able to help you.

@Johnathan/ Theril

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Potions, wands and other magical utilities designed to make the life of people a little easier. The kind depends on the needs of your markets, the wands could be blasting forth energy if your armies need the firepower, yet if you would merely want to light up your cities every night without the risk of torches setting things on fire we can provide the answer in rune stones or levitating platforms to help your builders. Our secrets are ancient, from before this war even, ask and we shall be able to help you.

Naturally being on the shadow side you know we can offer our eternal servants as well. Their tireless labour and ability to endure conditions that no living troops can could serve you well in your mountenous retreat.

@Arcmage Fircas (Empire of the Moon)

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The slender woman reads the reply and beckons the Archmage to follow her somewhere more private. The arcmage would need little evidence to know that this woman too had some skill in the arcane arts, she could tell the signs.

In a room without visitors the woman takes out a scroll and slowly incants the words upon it, clearly she's a novice, but the inaudible whispers spell takes effect masterfully.

"This should afford us some privacy" a sweet, soft voice says.


"Both of us controll vast empires and neither of us desires to be under the yoke of any false overlords. Doing their bidding has only caused us to weaken in pointless warfare against another. If we unite we will be all the stronger and the nations both shadow and light would not dare to try and force their will upon us. How do you feel on this?"


The woman is still cloaked, though as she speaks handgestures reveal that just below her robes her skin is dying. She can't be more then thirty years old and allready the exposure to the dark energies will force her to become a Lich soon or perish with her own failing body.

((As for the war, as suggested by falconer, the Necromancers were slowly encroaching upon the Empire of the Moon and Stars. Capturing a few territories that would be virtually useless to them as refugees would probably have fled from the armies of the damned. As said before they did not need the peace, though are using it to bolster their armies with fresh recruits from the battlefield dead and graveyards of the Empire of the Moon and Stars. Other then that Deja has merely sought to preserve it's borders and at best some of the older, independent liches would lead a few raids or skirmishes against others.))