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THE TEMPLE OF SIND

The air was cold. Your breath billowed in your face as you exhaled against the stone you laid against. You felt so weak, but as the seconds passed you felt strength return you your limbs and you pushed yourself to your feet. That is when you noticed the light.
   It shimmered over your limbs, and as you looked around you saw others, each with their own color, and you marveled at the sight.
   In front of you stood the broken remains of some kind of statue, shattered beyond all recognition. It would have towered above you, and was the centerpiece of the round chamber you were in. You felt a twinge at the sight of it, some kind of tugging at your mind.
   “MY CHILD,” A voice spoke into your mind. You fell to your knees, clutching your head. Around you, the others were doing the same, their auras flicking madly.
   “I HAVE CHOSEN YOU TO BE MY HEIRS, THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN CONSTANT AND FAITHFUL TO ME. I WAS BROKEN AND SCATTERED, BUT STILL YOU GATHERED AND REMAINED.
   FOR THIS IF GIFT YOU WHAT REMAINS OF MY POWER. YOU WILL NOT DIE OF DISEASE OR OF AGE, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO RENEW YOUR BODY. YOUR ABILITIES WILL GROW IN TIME, AND NO MORTAL WILL RESIST YOU.

ONE TASK I ASK OF YOU. THE SONS OF CISHARN ARE THE ONES WHO DID THIS TO ME, REDUCED ME TO GIFTING THESE PIECES OF MY POWER TO YOU. DESTROY THEM, DESTROY ATLANTIS.

GO, MY CHILDREN . . . MY SINDARI.

Stumbling from the temple, you collapse on your knees on the cracked stone steps leading out to the desert. A harsh wind flings burning sand into your face, as if scouring you of the. . . Otherworldliness of your father and bringing you back to the reality of this world.

You look to the horizon. A dark cloud coalesces far in the north. It twists and spins, and moves seemingly with a will of its own. You stare at it, fascinated. You feel both repulsed and attracted by it. But you are jostled aware by the village in front of you.

A collection of mud huts was what it really was, not really deserving of the name of village. It’s people, you learned, tended goats and cattle and took care of the priests of the temple, until a year ago when the doors slammed shut and could not be opened. They tell you of the cities that nestle against the Nile, and of Arkanus, the great capital and home to the Onyx Pyramid. They whisper of Naroth the Pharaoh, the greatest ruler the world has seen, and master of death. They all agree on this, they nod.
They are also fond of complaining, you note, of the great tributes required of family and clan, that are sent downriver to feed Atlantis and its Empire. And what do we get, they ask, but more soldiers asking for more grain? It is understandable that some clans, particularly among the desert nomads, are beginning to speak of rebellion. They agree with that, a bit quietly however.
   The wider world awaits however, and you feel the need to do, to fulfill your father’s command. How do you destroy an Empire?

Welcome to Sindari: Immortals. This is where the turns and events will be posted and where the action happens! Check out the OOC thread here (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=165141.0) for the rules and character sheets and stuff. Check out here (https://discord.gg/pZGDxz) for the discord server if you want to chat more with other players and myself.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Spend five years practicing magic and developing new spells.
Spend a year to rebirth to change my looks.
spend four years to find a nomad tribe and become integrated within it.

Results

I wandered the desert practicing setting my hand on fire, I can't get it very hot yet. Sometime later I have figured out how to change the taste of something, it also curiously is able to change the color of something.
Changes looks to Blend in with the Tribe better
Incresed respect Among the Alzilu Altawil people by training and working as a warrior of the sword. They pay in goats, so far I have been paid 50 goats, I traded for ten for a tent and traded ten to A family to have one of their younglings watch my goats.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Spend three years working on magic (try to develop an invisibility spell)
Spend three years working on smoke form (Try omproving speed and control)
Spend four years working on hunting and archery (Attempt to increase those skills, I would assume it involves agility but it's your choice)

Year 1: Rigel rose, he knew, though he know how, that his mission was different from the others. This would make his mission more difficult, in fact, he did don't even know if it was possible, but he had to try, for his lord and for... someone else, someone he didn't quite remember. Whatever the case, he would need some more magic to accomplish his goal. He stood up, picking up his bow and loading his arrows in his quiver, though he did not remember where he got any of them, and walked over to the person he knew could help him. He walked over to a cloaked figure, in fact, he looked to be only a cloak, with a black aura making it hard to see were the cloak ended and the aura began. "Hello, you're Loaker aren't you?" The figure nodded. "Good, I want you to teach me how to turn invisible."

Year 2: Rigel stood in the woods, focusing. He had spent a year studying with Loaker, practicing invisibility. After that year, he went back to the woods, to study and work on his own. He focused, and felt the power move through him. He looked at his hand, or rather, looked through it. He had not yet managed to make himself visible to himself yet, but that would come later. He walked forward, to where a group of ducks were drinking. He was able to move up next to them with ease, a mixture of stealth and the invisibility. He walked over to one of the ducks, and pulled back his bow. Unfortunately, the moment he did that, the spell disappeared, and the ducks, startled, flew off. He tried to shoot one, but the arrow missed and landed in the ground. "I should have been able to make that shot" he growled. Not to mention, if he wanted to do anything, the spell need some work.

Year 3: Rigel was in the woods once more, he had spent the past year practicing the spell, and this time, he was certain he was ready. He focused and preformed the spell. Power moved through his body, like lowering his body into cold water. He looked through his hand and focused again, it became visible, but only to him. He walked down from the tree's and stepped once more towards a group of ducks, several of which appeared to be from the first group as well. He walked over, and pulled back the bow, still invisible, good, He armed an arrow, still invisible, and finally, he let the arrow fly. The arrow shot towards the ducks, and turned visible only as it hit it in the face, killing it. The other ducks, seeing there brethren fall dead, scattered, but Rigel didn't care. He ran over to the duck and snatched it up, the invisibility still intact. Two things made him happy, one, the spell worked, and two, he was having duck for dinner tonight.

Year 4: Once more out hunting, Rigel was stalking a deer. Unfortunately, as he stalked, the ground began to shake. The deer turned around and ran, leaving Rigel in the grass behind it. He looked around, trying to find the cause of the shaking. Finally he spotted it, a pack of charging rhinos. Quickly, he transformed into smoke, and let the rhinos run over him. He felt the smoke be pulled apart as the rhino's ran. Once they passed, he began to pull himself together. Unfortunately, it took a while. "This, is boring," Rigel thought "damn, I'm going to have to make this faster."

Year 5: Smoke flowed across the savanna, swallowing blades of grass and releasing them on the other end. Rigel was practicing the ability, trying to speed up, to increase his control. He moved like a fog, the black smoke moving effortlessly, as if being blown by the air. He moved towards a tree, and centered his smoke. He built it upon itself, and when he was done, he formed a pillar, but it still took much too long, and he could only perform simple transformations, such as a circle, square, or pillar. "This still needs work" he thought to himself.

Year 6: A deer was eating by itself, munching on the grass of the savanna, when suddenly, the ground bellow it became darker. Quickly, the ground was covered in black smoke, and the sane smoke surrounded it. Darkness blocked the sun, trapping the deer in a cage of blackness. Terrified, it ran, not even scattering the smoke as it escaped. Rigel transformed back to his normal form and smiled. It had taken three years of practice, but he had managed to advance his smoke form to the point that it could be used for more than an emergency escape. He could spread himself out to the point that he was almost invisible, however it carried with it the same slightly painful feeling of stretching, form shapes of smoke, such as cages and boxes, and most importantly, he could move much quicker, allowing the form to be used for quick escapes. All in all, it was a productive three years, especially for getting it done in such a short stretch of time.

Year 7: An arrow rushed through the air, hitting a target carved into a tree. Rigel walked up to the tree to retrieve his arrow. He knew that he had been better at this before, but he knew why he had lost his skills. With a new body, his muscles were no longer accustomed to the motions, and to the tiny differences that could send an arrow shooting completely off the target. He would have to do more practice, he felt it would take years, but he had nothing if not time.

Year 8: Another shot, another arrow, another hit, he never missed the target, but he rarely got a bullseye. Rigel understood this would be good for a human, but it was not good enough for a Sindari, he had to be able to best even the best archers of the Cisharni, who would be able to shoot a perfect hit every time. He shot again, this would take many years, but once more, he had not but time.

Year 9: A lone deer grazed on the savanna grass, watching it, from the trees, was Rigel. He pulled back his bow, and fired a shot. The arrow hit the deer in the hind quarters, spurring it forward, but a second arrow, this one to the heart, stopped it in its tracks. Rigel dropped down from the trees, and grabbed the deer. He should have been able to take it out in one hit. He took the deer away, ready to cook dinner, he would need it for another day of training.

Year 10: Rigel sat in the trees, he pulled back his bow and shot an arrow at a deer below him. It pierced it through the head, killing it in one hit, but he had intended to hit it through the eye. He needed to be better.

Expected results
+4 to archery
+4 to hunting
+3 to smoke skill

Invisibility spell: This spell makes the user, there clothes, and all things they were holding when starting the spell invisible. The user can then choose to make those things visible to themselves. Should an invisible object may be to far from the caster, it will once again become visible. This skill can hide your aura from people of close or lower power levels. Anyone if a high enough power level relative to you can see your aura as normal.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

First year: create and retreat to my pocket dimension.
After that:
-4 years developing my control over my pocket dimension, strengthening its protection from interlopers and allowing me to expand it and create more detailed environments within it
-4 years developing my power to teleport, trying to reducing the time the ritual takes and allow myself to do other things while conducting the ritual
-1 year developing my magic, mostly just being able to see if something is magical in some way, even if I can't tell how or if there is no physical sign of it being so.

Desired Results:
-Improved Teleportation: Can do other things while in the process of teleporting (higher priority). Teleportation takes 30 minutes instead of an hour (lower priority).
-Pocket Dimension - Adjilia: The area is mainly comprised of a large forest. Floating rocks are common, and magic crystals grow on them. Off toward the edge of the pocket dimension, there is a small mountain, and the surrounding area has trees made of metal instead of the usual wood. Anchored near the center is a floating island, upon which is an orchard and a small farm, which is where Acter resides (higher priority). It is protected from entrance, with the only method of access being Mercuritia's teleportation ability (lower priority).
-Magic Sense: Able to see magic, even if there is no physical indication of magic (higher priority). Able to get a vague impression of what the magic is for (lower priority).
Also, +1 attribute point from time: invested in Presence, increasing it to 4 due to caste bonus.

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

-Actions
Spend a year traveling to one of the cities by the Nile (aims to try and blend in with the beggars and other cast aside, downtrodden folk when he arrives)
Spend a year learning about the city (learn about the cities politics, who is important?, who has ties to who?, what is the mood of the people? what has happened in the city recently?, what does the city trade? what is the criminal element like?)
Spend two years learning knife fighting (there's likely at least someone willing to teach him a thing or two about back alley knife fights)
Spend three years learning escape artistry (escaping from bindings and evading pursuit are useful skills to have when everything goes wrong, hopefully he can convince a thief to give him some pointers)
Spend three years improving his ability to deceive

-Fluff
Ammon had seen his poor family starve while the wealthy feasted and grew fat. He had watched his family grow weak from malnutrition while plump tax collectors demanded even more from them. He was there when illness swept through his weakened family killing all of his brothers and sisters, killing his mother and father and leaving him alone. When the plump tax collectors returned they demanded more than the child could give so instead they took everything his family had left him. His home lost, reduced to owning nothing but the clothes on his back and the battered wooden crutch that supported his feeble frame he limped onward. Resentment festered in the child's heart.

However there was one thing of his parent's that he had managed to keep; their faith. They were one of the very few who still looked toward Sind for guidance. They honoured Sind and condemned the greed of the Cisharni. Alone and with nothing Ammon also honoured Sind, he prayed that Sind would return, that he would right the wrongs of the world, that the damage done by Cisharni greed would be undone. Every time he prayed to this god that as far as he knew only his family had prayed to he felt closer to them.

Without a home he lived in the gutters of a larger city surviving using his guile and cunning. He subsisted off of scraps he scrounged up. This life of want and hunger only served to strength his faith in Sind. Sind was his hope, his hope that the world could be better, that one day people wouldn't suffer as he had.

It was a whisper. Just one whisper in the early hours of the mourning before dawn, spoken in a forgotten alley between two conspirators but Ammon had been there by pure chance he had heard it. The followers of Sind were gathering. There was no way Ammon could choose not go. He had to be there. It was a chance to see his faint hopes come true. So he went. It was a long trek made worse by the fact that he had no supplies and was physically feeble. But faith and determination drove him on and through deserts, sandstorms, bandits and other hazards. Eventually he reached the temple.

It would be a full year before he left the temple. When he did he was different, he was Sindari. After all this time Sind had chosen to answer his prayers and to give him a mission; destroy the Cisharni. This was a task he'd happily take on with unmatched zeal. He would use his knowledge of city life to form spy networks from the downtrodden and the lost. He would use his cunning to subvert their control. He would be insidious.

But he wasn't ready yet there were a few skills he'd need first. He set off towards a large city (but not the capital) in the hopes of acquiring the skills he'd need. The other Sindari each set off to do their own thing and make their own preparations. He would naturally keep them up to date with any information he found.

(I hope this turn is alright. I do like adding in a bit of unnecessary fluff)

-Summary
Expected results
+5 influence (from info gathering)
+6 acrobatics skill
+4 knife fighting skill
+6 Deception skill

Spoiler: Character sheet (click to show/hide)

2x Train skill: Sailing
2x Train magic: Weather Control
Called to the sea Miles joined the crew of a merchant ship and began to learn the sailors trade. He also used his magics to unobtrusively shape the wind and the waves to ease the ships progress.

2x Make money: Sailing
2x Gather a following
He rose through the ranks and even gathered a small but devoted following among the sailing community.
Skill 4 x 52 weeks x 2 years = 408 silver
Presence 2 x 10 x 2 years = 40 follower points.
      10 Skill 3 Sailors
      3 Skill 3 Fighters

2x Focus on the family
However the most important thing to happen to Miles in his first decade was meeting the ship owners daughter Olivia. They were instantly taken with one another and he spent all his time ashore in her company. Eventually he realized he could trust her with even his deepest secrets, so he told her his true nature and asked for her hand in marriage.
One year later their first child was born.
1 follower point for a trustworthy wife.

Summary:
13 worshipers +2 attribute points
   10 skill 3 Sailors
   3 Skill 3 Fighters
S:2 A:2 I:6 W:4 Per:2 Pres:2
Skills: Sailing 6
Magic: Weather Control 4
Wealth: 408 Silver
Family:
New wife Olivia
New child 1 year old

Please check this over to make sure it's alright.

I hope my use of magic is ok, I figure since it's just flavor/training.

EVENT: THE GUTTER RAT
AMMON

   The sun shone bright upon the filth strewn streets of Dashun. Sitting at the joining of a tributary and the Nile, several trading companies had warehouses here, storing the copper and tin that are brought here and forged into bronze, and then shipped out to the rest of Egypt.
   It was also the site of several major government offices, where tax collectors would gather together the taxes of the region.
   This confluence of wealth and power brought the poor looking for work and a chance of a better life. Ammon was one of those, once. Though now he was something a bit. . . more.
A shadow fell over Ammon, and he glanced up. A well built man, with hard look in his eyes and a scar slashed across his face, looked down, grunted, and kneeled in front of Ammon.
   “I’m told you have sharp eyes, gutter boy, and I’m in need of sharp eyes. A tax collector is coming in today, a man named Beret, one who owes me a lot of money. He’s a bald man, amulet with a purple gem. If you spot him, follow him until he settles in, then report back to me,” He flashes a grin, “There will be something in it for you too.”

What do you do?
A. Take his offer.
B.Refuse
C. Something else?

Spoiler: Events (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

-Event: The Gutter Rat
The beggar child looked back towards the scarred man. The beggars and street urchins were often ignored by most but saw so much of what happened on the streets. Anyone looking for a good spy who knew how things worked would come to the homeless. This man knew how things worked. He was a criminal of some sort unless he missed his guess, out to rob a wealthy tax collector. That was something he could get behind and this offer could potentially open up some criminal contacts, unless Ammon had missed his guess as to the nature of the man before him. "I have some of the sharpest eyes around," Ammon replied "Normally I would be concerned that this crutch of mine would slow me down so I couldn't keep up but this is a tax collector we're talking about. They always stroll so leisurely about the place, I guess they must be weighed down beneath the weight of other people's money," He gave the man a little grin "Tell me how you want me to contact you when he's stopped and you'll have use of this gutter boy's eyes,"

-Option selection
A

EVENT: THE GUTTER RAT
A:
It was early in the morning and the sun had not yet risen when the tax collector Beret slunk into town. Ammon was able to get a general sense of the tax man’s location earlier after being told the man’s name and appearance, and it felt that he was outside the city. Ammon merely waited until it felt closer, then followed it.
Beret slunk through one of the smaller side gates, slipping the guard a few coins then hurried on his way. He seemed to be holding a rather heavy pouch. Ammon followed easily, using his crutch to skip through the alley ways easily. You followed him to a tavern by the docks, where he meet with a few men you recognized as boat pilots. It is an easy assumption to make that he is trying to get a boat out of the city.

What do you do?
A. Hurry back and let the man know where Beret is.
B. Just steal the Beret’s gold.
C. Steal the Beret’s gold, then alert the scarred man to his location.
D. Something else?

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

-Event: The Gutter Rat
Ammon followed the tax collector, his keen eyes alert for any signs of a trap. But nothing materialized as he found himself by the docks. This man had bribed a guard to slip into the city unnoticed and was looking for a boat out of the city. He probably wanted to leave as quietly as he came in. From his actions it was clear he knew full well someone was after him. Ammon didn't try to get his gold. Stealing his gold could put him at odds with both the scarred man and any one on Beret's side. There would be other opportunities latter for making money. What mattered to Ammon right now was finding out just what this was all about. As he hurried back to the scarred man to tell him Beret's location he made a mental note to sneak back to keep an eye on the tax collector. You could never know what could be shaken out when someone's criminal plan got rolling. Ammon would be there quietly waiting to scavenge what ever he could from any chaos that unfolded by the docks.

-Option selection
A

Ammon hurries to where the scarred man told him to meet. Ammon explains what is going on to the door thug, who goes and gets the man, Yondis, Ammon hears him called. Yondis comes, a bit bleary eyed, but perks up when he is told where the tax collector is. He and 4 thugs rush out to stop him from leaving.
Ammon follows closely behind. When the thugs arrive, they spot the tax collector and the pilot making way to the boat. A foot race ensures, one that ends with both Beret and the pilot being caught and pounded with the clubs the thugs had. Once they were finished, Yondis strips the tax collector of his purse and amulet, and rolls the bodies into the river. He grins and laughs with his men. He spots Ammon in the shadows, and tosses him a gold coin.
“You earned it, gutter rat. You did good work tonight, come by in the morning and I may have some more work for you.” Yondis nods and walks away.

+1 gold coin
+5 influence, criminal connections.

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

Use three actions to practice Smithing
Use two actions to practice Fletching

Masamune didn't remember anything of his previous life, but something about metalwork felt right. It was almost like shaping reality on a personal level. He took up an apprenticeship in the nearest city, quickly remembering old skills. Near the end of the sixth year, his master gave him a gift; his own set of tools, so that he could make his own way forward.

Use two actions to study Enchanting

Perhaps it was possible to stretch that ability further, to create an impression deeper than any mortal smith could possibly make. The power of a Sindari should be able to create tools that could do much more than a simple lump of bronze or iron should be capable of.

Use two actions to make money with Smithing

But still, mundane concerns came first. Masamune worked, under a more mundane and local name, to earn money to start building his base of wealth. A yearning rose in his heart, however, a yearning to travel to the east. . .

Use one action to forge some equipment for myself

So Masamune created some simple arms and armor for himself, spending quite some time to ensure they were of the highest quality he could manage.

Expected Results
-(6+2+1) = +9 Smithing
-+4 Enchanting
-+4 Fletching
-52 weeks * Skill of 6 at the time * 2 years = +624 silver
-Gain (possibly enchanted w/basic durability, sharpness?) set of medium armor, sword

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder (click to show/hide)

Amelia was a craftsman before becoming who she was today, crafting subtleties and trinkets while practicing a culture and principle of what she believed would further that of the deity she worshipped...in secret. Now, she felt his power in her, and felt notably vulnerable. She decided to part ways with her companions at the temple, mentioning that she would keep in touch over the years, and headed eastwards--away from Atlantis and her anxieties, finding a place akin to vague memories of her mountainous home.

She wondered how she would keep contact with her fellows. They were numerous, and travel was...time-taking.

{Telepathy/All} "I am heading to the East, away from Atlantis. I wish to help the world and learn more about the differing cultures to see how far the Cisharni have influenced Sind's creation. I will seek islands, or isolated regions, even aiming to build us a base of worship and influence. I will provide its foundations, from digging under Earth, to making its infrastructure to reflect against the skies."

Spend one year moving away from the general direction of Atlantis, finding a home in a mountainous area (preferably surrounded by forest and sea) alongside acquainting self with the locals.

Upon finding her desired area, and either meeting with friendly locals or otherwise establishing connection with folks, Amelia decided to trek to the highest peak, passing the cloud-line, and seeing the lands from sunset to sunrise in full. Therein, she decided to start helping herself, moving to one of the nearby valleys and creating a makeshift storage in a cave. This would be her training grounds, far from the knowledge of others, other than her kin--other Sindari. She would spend her early years in contemplation and thought, alongside making foundations for the lands she would aid and help grow.

Spend 3 years focused on Mining.

As time passed, everytime she visited the nearby brook to refresh herself, she would notice the lack of age on her person. Her acuity and memory would also feel quite active, just like the previous years. Having found enough time to practice her trade skills, and convert materials into materials, she disguised herself (in the least with a cloak and hood) as a peddler of various minor wares (such as miniscule tools and cultural trinkets) and sought to trade between the locals in her region: In between routes, ensuring that she would be storing more prized possessions from Alchemy in the cave she designated years ago.

Spend 3 years on Engineering
Spend 3 years on Administration

She decided to be an honest merchant--as she realized even before becoming a Sindari that one's own values and principles were honed and seen first by oneself, in the innermost sanctum unbreached by any she could think of: Her mind. In that time, she had decided to acquaint herself more with the locals, focusing on her skills rather than any payment (as this would come later), and providing her services solely in pursuit of training her skills to the local communities. Any benefits therein, such as recognition or prestige, would come from others' choices, not hers.

She saw the local agriculture, and noticed her memory reconstruct details from her homeland. Steppes and terrances would line the mountainsides to provide farmland themselves, while mining areas (or at least future designations) would be placed in areas where runoff would not endanger and create collateral damage to the wildlife and flora. Therein, she began helping out in every stay she had per community, learning just as much from the locals in comparison to the knowledge she imparted, alongside noticing that she herself had flaws in the concepts originally designed if applied in context. There was so much to learn, but she prided that this was something that existed in life.

Even if the Cisherni had existed for centuries, they had not wiped out the perseverance and creativity of mankind, and those alongside them.

Expected Results:
- Mining, Administration, and Engineering increase to level 6 (Expert), having 3 years invested in each, respectively.
- Possible Influence with the locals, and news or information about this new place with such preferences of terrain mentioned above. (Primarily mountainous, primarily isolated, secondarily forested/hilly, and seaside [or at least major river for port construction])
- Possible cross-experience with Trade or Social skills.
- Gain in a quantity of materials from Alchemy use for future wealth/trade/business opportunity, stored in a remote cave? [abstracted into bundles of wealth? :P]

TURN 2 AA (After Ascension) 10-20

The Elves of Silvercrest had long sought peace and tranquility. Sons and daughters of the Cisharni Celdowin, they rejected the power and prestige of Atlantis, and embraced isolation, stagnation, and now, death.

   The Inquisitor snarled as he dodged another arrow, ducking to the side as it flashed where his head was moments ago. He sprinted and leaped over the barricade the elves had erected, landing in the midst of three of them.

They were fast, he had to admit as they dropped their bows and drew their swords. But he was faster still.
As quick as a serpent’s strike, his winged spear plunged into one elf’s throat, and quickly torn out and spun to meet the second and third swords. Weapons flashed in the moonlight as the Inquisitor deflected an array of blows. He knocked the elf’s blade away and slashed through her arm, making her cry out and leap away. The last elf desperately threw everything he had, his fine technique degenerating into hacking. A little deflection of the elf’s sword and the Inquisitor buried his spear into the elf’s heart. He watched impassively as he slumped to the ground, dead.

The Inquisitor turned and looked at the last elf. Trembling, she raised her sword and snarled, rushing at him. He casually turned to the side, flicking out his winged spear and sent her head spinning away.
Captain Balisurade jumped over the barricade, saber out and gemlock pistol at the ready, followed by several soldiers. They paused at the sight of the black robed Inquisitor, armored in dark plate, with gold eyes glittering beneath the hood.

“Continue the attack, Captain.” The Inquisitor ordered. The captain, brave to a fault, obeyed. The Inquisitor continued behind. The elvish oasis would soon fall, he had no doubt of that.

The elves were capable warriors to a man, but could not defeat a determined attack by Atlantean forces. The Empire had long desired Silvercrest, for both it’s oasis and magic wellspring that drew the elves there in the first place.

The Inquisitor walked into the clearing making the center of the Oasis. Captain Balisurade laid on the ground, sightless eye staring up next to bristled shaft. Fire spread through the elegant houses of the elves, and cries of the wounded echoed through the clearing.

In the middle of the clearing stood a great tree, unnatural large for a desert oasis. In front of the tree stood an elvish sorceress, blue fire crackling and arcing around her. Bullets snapped against her shield, deflecting harmlessly away. Bolts of fire shot out from her, each one burning a hole into an Atlantean soldiers chest. A bolt shot towards the Inquisitor, hitting him in the chest. Fire spread over his breastplate, merely warming him. He spun his spear, deflecting the next bolt away, and charged at the elvish sorceress. Her guards formed in front of her, presenting blades and shields with a look of determination.

The Inquisitor grinned. This might be a challenge. He dodged another bolt, and jumped over over the elvish shields, stabbing down through the helmet of one warrior. He tore out the spear, and slammed the haft into the next defender, knocking him down. A golden haired elf brought his sword down in a swift strike, but froze as the the Inquisitor's armored hand caught the blade mid swing. A wrench flung the blade away, and impaled the defender with his spear.

The Inquisitor glanced over at the sorceress. Sweat glimmered over her body, and her hair was flung about by the wild energies barely under her control. She glared at him with rage in her eyes, and the firestorm around her intensified with her words. He bared his teeth as he parried a sword blow and sent the defender stumbling away.

He sprinted towards her as she shouted out in defiance. Fire lashed around his limbs, binding him back as the storm raged against him. His skin blistered as he strained against the magical bonds holding him back. He mustered what energy remained and pushed with a shout. The firestorm billowed away, and the magical bonds binding him snapped. The sorceress had only enough time to blink her eyes in surprise as the Inquisitor lunged.

She groaned and glared at him. “Your time is coming to an end, Cisharni scum. I saw it in the stars. A new power will rise. It will be time of revolution, of fire and sword. Atlantis will fall. “

He gazed with at her with cold intensity as he muttered an incantation, and she gasped as the light in her eyes faded. A silver essence flowed from her body into a gem at his belt.
The Inquisitor stared pensively at the body before him. The daughters of Celdowin often had a talent for prophecy, but they were wrong before. He dismissed it from his thoughts. There was still work to be done.

STATE OF THE EMPIRE:
The Empire is stable around the Mediterranean, with thoughts of revolution simmering in Egypt. Several Greek city states dream of independence. Rome, Spain, and Carthage are fine members of the Empire. Armies and legions are currently pacifying Gaul, and conquering Persia.

SINDARI INFLUENCE:
   Minimal.

Spoiler: Character stuff (click to show/hide)

Don'y forget to update your character sheet with your new skills, and you get an attribute point to apply!

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

This decade is when the magic happens.

Year 1, I, and those others who choose to come with me, will travel with a trade caravan along the Silk Road. I will observe the manner in which our hosts conduct their trade, and will practice with their guards, learning the art of swordsmanship. I may not learn it in depth, but it is useful to know how to defend oneself. All that time, over the course of the year, we shall draw ever closer to China. By the end, I expect to know how to trade, know the very basics of sword fighting, and have enough goods or money to start trading myself.

Year 2, I shall explore China, learning of its culture and government. More importantly, though, I will learn whether or not they have immortals, like us or the Cisharni. The answer will direct my further policy regarding the place.

After that, the last 8 years... that is where the game truly begins. Here, is where I enter the field of trade. Here's a rundown:
On the way to China, I scouted around the outskirts of each stop, looking for an isolated place where I could teleport in or out inconspicuously. These will, of course, be how I get from place to place.
Biweekly, I will spend 2 or 3 days checking up on prices, altering my trading pairs based on them. The rest of the time, I will buy goods where they are most common and cheapest, then teleport to and sell them at the place where they are rarest and most expensive (but which still sell). However, I will always sell them for a little bit under the average price in the selling stop; if I sold for the same price, I wouldn't be guaranteed sales, but if I sold too cheap, people would likely avoid me, out of fear that I'm selling fake goods.
As soon as I'm able to, I will establish a trade company, so that I can put most of my earned funds into that, as well as allowing me to set up my own caravans that can sell goods in bulk (I can only sell what I can carry on my person, due to teleportation restrictions). I will also try to restrain any reputation-building to the Far East regions, to prevent the Cisharni from catching on.

Expected Results:
Year 1 - Original entry to China, trade route stops for teleportation, +1 skill to trading, potential for more swordsmanship skill
Year 2 - +5 Influence, information on China, full China teleportation access
Years 3-10 - 292 gold (1 silver a day x 365 days x 8 years), lots of teleportation practice (~~can we get this down to 1-minute teleports?~~ Nope, but down to 20 minutes; also, being someone with me?) (let's say another 4 years focus), trade practice (let's say 4 years of that, so I'll be at 5 at the end), +? eastern influence, ownership of a trade company (200 of the 292 gold invested), +20 business influence

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

Use one action to travel to the East with Acter

The desire to wander pulled at Masamune's feet, and so he joined one of his fellows, Acter, on his caravan to the East, taking what tools he could carry on his back with him alongside the equipment he'd already prepared. Along the way, he participated in Acter's sparring, even moreso than Acter himself, practicing the skills he may need to defend himself in the strange lands.
Spend an action traveling to and exploring Japan

Masamune yeared to travel even further than his Sindari brother, and so he set sail across the waters dividing China from its neighbor Japan. There, he set about learning of the strange land and its ways, as well as establishing his name there.

Spend an action setting up a guild of smiths (business) using 60 gold

The urge to explore finally sated, Masamune found himself in a new land, still mostly unfamiliar. He fell back upon the skills he had earned in the previous decade, and gathered others of similar talent to him, working in tandem for mutual profit, in the imperial capital of Heian-kyo.

Spend two actions honing my Smithing

And for two years afterward, he worked at perfecting his craft, to be worthy of someday being known as the greatest smith to ever walk the lands, only working for others enough to sustain himself and pay his taxes.

Spend four actions studying Enchanting

Once Masamune had mastered the art of metalwork, he began work on laying magics into the metal itself, giving his blades even more unusual properties. He worked until he believed that his talent with enchantment neared his skill with the smithing itself.

Spend an action creating weapons and armor for profit

Masamune, hunger for self-improvement sated, turned to building a further base of wealth for himself. For a year he worked, taking requests from wealthy samurai through the land.

Expected results:

+1 Swordsmanship
+1 Smithing
+11 influence in Japan, information on Japan
Started business with 60 gold, worth 6 gold/year
Net gain of (-600+24+[52 weeks*1 year*13 smithing skill = 676]) = 100 silver

Spoiler: Flak, The Beast (click to show/hide)

Spend three years fighting for the Alzilu Altawil
Spend one year starting a family
Spend two years caring for my Family.
spend four years defending the tribe

Results

I fought many people in the name of the tribe.
I fell in love with a girl named Nenet. I told her my secret, I did not reveal that I have brothers and sisters.
In time we had two kids, a son, and a daughter.
I spent quite awhile defending a tribe, The Zaeim gave me a band of warriors to lead.

+7 swordsmanship
Influence Among Alzilu Altawil +4(Clan Head/ Respected Defender)
4 Followers(+3 swordsmanship, +1 tracking)
+80 goats ( -10 to youngling watching goats, -30 to Nenet's father for right to marry her)

Family:
Nenet-18~Akhenaten
^
Ammon-4 # Neith-3

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 2nd turn (click to show/hide)

Amelia was glad at the reception she had of the locals--she was, however, dismayed that the local Kings paid tribute to the Empire. She had to cover this up somehow, in the long run, if they were to be under her control. . .or rather obligation. Control was too..."Cisharni". As she pondered, sitting near her storage-cave, a spider crawled above her and disappered in the crevices. She waited a few seconds for it to emerge and found it pop out near her foot before it bumped into her and warily scuttled off.

The idea hit her: An Underground Empire.

But how to do it needed an exodus of people (or gradual movement over time), and the full cooperation of the people therein. She, at least, decided that it would be a measure of social prowess and that of external circumstance--say, a storm or tropical typhoon wiping out the people, or a tsunami. She would make the underground foundations under the mountains and seal it with teleportation she had noted from her allies a decade ago. That was the start, but she had to first check the foundations of the lands she was on.

Train Mining for 3 more years {With benefits, so only +3 instead of +6 -- benefits being 'making an underground suitable for base making and sturdy foundations, defensible and also habitable'}
Train Engineering for 3 more years

Numerous veins, and even an extensive cavern system--possibly, and notably, untouched by human (or otherwise) hand, was of great discovery for her. It even had an outlet into the sea where water was naturally purified by ground filtration (that she had to ensure did not cause collateral upon discovery), that would work as a good watersource for her underground planning. The cavern system would both be a boon for the people that would move underground--and for her extensive engineering and administration skills.

In between the years, she was focused on trading with the folks above--especially of the village she had first encountered, transmuting most of the dirt she came across into minerals, and saving those from her years of mining for future progress in making the underground. These would be spent later, as she had to focus on training in the meantime. She had learned the boon of focused training over training-and-action, as while the latter promised short term results, the former would promise long term results over lesser time when applied, and she ensured to be able to write down every single notation of her actions (ranging from safety within the underground, to categorical understanding of how physics and mechanical measures would be done in such a context). Knowing that the aboveground lands were also part of her megaproject planning in the future, she had spent her trade routes on advicing the farmers for better produce alongside more care of their land, obviously as an aside, but also in part for her plans in spreading a philosophy akin to a religion of her own: Sind's original plans and virtues, of caring for others and being free in pursuing one's own path in life too, but with one's own ideas alongside as one's guide. She had become acquainted to more people in this time, and while she did not use her real name, people began to speak (at least, at the village level) of the 'peddler of goods' who supplied them with what they lacked, or what would aid them in times of trouble. Dolls, toys, and otherwise, for children grieving or in need of emotional help; modifications for farmers and other workers, who found their productivity increasing in minor ways after modifying their own tools with her metal or minerals, and even the soil probably being bettered by what only others could call as a 'greening' of the lands underground.

Spend 4 years focused on Enchanting

In this time, she had became an accomplished enchanter, in her years of trade acting as a repairwoman and in selling baubles and trinkets which would be cornerstones of her underground project. Minor boons such as 'emotion sensing/reflection' and 'reminder gemstones', which would probably also function as future teaching aids, as she had plans for also educating the populace in terms of emotions and thoughts--their importance in a society rather than rigid roles and hierarchies which the Kings somehow adhered to.

Perhaps, one day, she would live to see a better future.
It started with now, however. And in between the years, she made sure to telepathically tell the other Sindari about what was going on in her life, alongside her plans.
She was happy to have met a lot of good folks in the villages, and even professionals alongside dynamically differing artforms ranging from the physical to the mental in her travels. This made up most of the telepathic storytelling, as it presented a lot of ideas for the others to also add to their plans.

Expected Outcomes:
> +3 to Mining; +6 to Engineering; +8 to Enchanting
> A well-mapped and thoroughly designed underground area ripe for base building. Materials from mining being stocked and stored.
> Minor baubles being spread around my locality that benefit the locals as a surplus from mining, with the tiniest touch of enchanting that gives the idea of either quasi-realistic, or benefit of the doubt. (Either influence bonus, or a one-shot + to 'worshipper' dice in the future)

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

-Actions
(spent one attribute point on intelligence with x2 Santoris multiplier)
Spend a year doing odd jobs for criminal contacts
Spend four years learning to be stealthy
Spend a year building an informant network
Spend four years practicing magic and developing the ability to magically influence people (Jedi mind trick style)

-Fluff
Time moved on and the child switched up the names he introduced himself as every few years. He moved about spending a great deal of time and effort to perfect going unnoticed by the masses thronging the streets. He had a natural talent for it and adapted to city life easily. Occasionally he'd seek out the criminal element to find out what simple jobs needed doing in an effort to earn a little coin. But it wasn't enough, he didn't feel like he was making progress to toppling the enemies of Sind. It was time to start building a network of informants. He started quietly recruiting some of the homeless and ignored, all the while he pretended to be acting as a proxy for someone else. Just asking them to keep an eye out for any potentially useful bits of information and recruit a few other people. He formed his network into decentralized cells with small street urchins acting as messengers carrying reports and orders between them. He silently inserted himself among these couriers. While acting as such a messenger he slipped his orders in masking them as orders propagating through the network. He constructed a network of informants who didn't even know who was in control of the whole thing or how reports made it back to however was in charge.

But there was more to do he could feel the call of magic in his bones. He knew how powerful small forces could be if applied in the right places. His efforts at manifesting his magic were not to create anything spectacular. Instead he focused on seeing if could subtly effect the mind. If he could change someone's mood. If he was successful it would be a useful skill to possess.

He kept the other Sindari updated as to what he was doing and what he had learned, hoping that they could make use of some of the info he had gathered.

-Expected results
+ 416 silver coins
+8 stealth skill
+10 X 10 (Influence level) X 2(Presence)=200 general followers
+4 mind affecting magic skill (+4 possibilities of mind magic once intelligence increases)

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

Using his new father-in-law's help Miles bought a ship and started his own merchant business.
1x Start a business (40 gold)
4gold x 10 years = 40 gold
1x train Trade
1x gather a following
20 skill 0 devoted followers

Miles continued to raise his family having three more children Mark (age 8 ), Rose (age 5) and Steven (age 2).
And as his children grew old enough to understand he tought them about who they were and their family's secret war with the cisharni.
3x raise a family

While on the sea Miles learned more and more magic. Gaining the power to summon or dispell massive storms and even throw lightning from his hand.
1x train magic: Weather control
1x train magic: Lightning

The most surprising event this decade was when a crewman was fatality injured.
While seeking to ease his pain Miles instinctually reached out and removed his soul shaping it into a gem.
Seeing the peace this brought the man and the power it could provide, Miles started to go to the dieing and offer them a pain death with a chance to hurt the hated atlantians. Only a few accepted but it was enough to start creating gems
1x create soul gem

At Amelia's request he enchanted one of these gems to call down a terrible hurricane. It was excellent practice for the day they would complete Sind's plan and scoure Atlantis clean.
1x enchant soul gem

Summary
Attributes: +1 for time
Strength:2 Agility:2 Intelligence:8 Willpower:4 Perception: 2+2 Presence:2
Wealth/Assets:
40.8 Gold
New shipping business(40 gold)
7 Soul gems
1 Hurricane gem for Amelia
Influence:0 +4 for shipping business
Worshipers/Power:33 worshipers
   10 skill 3 Sailors
   3 Skill 3 Fighters
   New 20 skill 0 followers
Family:Wife Olivia
Daughter Lily aged 11:4/6 Sindari Lives 100 to 200 years longer than average. Strong recuperative abilities. Very strong, fast, and intelligent.
New son Mark aged 8
New daughter Rose aged 5
New son Steven aged 2
Skills:
Sailing 6
New Trade 2
Magic: Weather control 4 +2
New Lightning 2

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Year 11-20

Year 1
Travel to China with Actar and Masamune, work as a guard

Year 2
Work as Actar's bodyguard for a year.

Year 3-10
Travel to Japan and spend the remaining years practicing magic, my smoke form, and ninja skills with a group of ninjas.

Expected Results
+6 to archery
+4 to smoke form
+4 to stealth
New spell, Arrow make: Create an arrow of force that I can shoot from my bow. It disappears soon after it stops moving, and until then acts as an invincible arrow. Appears as an arrow shaped area where the air is warped like a heat shimmer. Requires very little focus.

Fluff and more to be added later

EVENT
THE TELEPORTING MERCHANT
ACTER
   China, one of the greatest kingdoms of the ancient world. Several years of trading within the country showed Acter the truth of these. These were a rich and vibrant people, and their art and silk made valuable trade goods in Persia and India.
   Acter browsed through the bustling market place. Sometimes he had intermediaries do this, but he could often find better deals than his servants could. Suddenly a hush fell around the market place, and a quick glance around revealed several heavily armored guards moving around him, spears at the ready. Acter cursed to himself. These were Dragon Guards, famed throughout China for their skills in battle and iron discipline. Acter almost began to prepare for a quick teleport away when a robed man stepped from behind a guard.
   “You are the merchant known as Courier, yes? My master, Prince Fireheart wishes to speak with you.”

What do you do?
A. Go with them.
B. Refuse, make a quick exit
C. Something else?

A, with a hint of C:

"Eh? Yes, that would be myself... yes, I will speak with your master. If it would not be of trouble to you, however, I should like to bring a few guards of my own. If I may?"

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

EVENT: THE TELEPORTING MERCHANT
The envoy purses his lips “If you so wish. Collect your men and come with me.”
Acter collected a few caravan guards, and was lead to the center of the city, to the stone fortress at its heart. The towers rose high above the party as they made their way through the massive gate. Inside you go through a maze of tunnels to arrive at an inner sanctum. Inside sat a imposing man, dressed in a fine red tunic, embroidered in gold. His eyes shone red, and scales glittered on his skin. His eyes widened as you entered. Within moments he threw you against the wall and snarled,
“Cisharni scum! You have made a grievous error in coming here. Have you come to spy, to assassinate my father or uncles? Speak quickly!”
The two Dragon Guards with the Prince quickly disarmed your bewildered caravan guards.

What do you say?

"I can tell you, sir, I am no friend of the Atlanteans. They murdered the one who made me this way. You have heard of Sind, yes? Can you not feel that my magic is different from that of Cisharn's?"

The prince’s grip hardly slackened on Acter’s throat. “You say you are not Cisharni, but your aura says otherwise. Why should I not kill you now?” Studying the Prince more, Acter can see the aura of the prince, shimmering and red like fire. A power you are not familiar with emanates from him.

"Sir, I will tell you again, I am not your enemy. I am Sindari, among the first. We are sworn to remove the Cisharni from their thrones and teach them to be humble again. The killed Sind; we are meant to be their punishment.
Besides, if I desired to do anything to you or your relations, would I not have done so by now? I've had a few years in which I was unknown, and I wouldn't be thought to be suspected; why would I still be waiting to conduct such an attack after becoming as prominent as I have?"

The prince slowly relaxed his grip. “If what you say is true, then we may have a use for you. Our Dragon King entered an agreement with the Cisharni that we would not invade the other’s territories. They are rapacious and greedy for power. You will tell me more about your Sindari, and what brings you into China.”

"Well, first off, we only just recieved our abilities... about fifteen years ago? Something around that. Sind managed to regain enough strength to create us, but not enough to actually maintain himself afterwards. To be quite honest, he likely should have waited, but that's advice several years to late, I suppose.
What brought me here, well, a trade caravan brought me here. A few of my compatriots and I chose to follow the Silk Road to remove ourselves from the Cisharni's realm of influence. I decided that wealth would likely be my best route to accumulating the power to challenge the Cisharni, but my friends are currently in Japan, honing their other skills. A smith and a hunter, the two of them.
Besides the three of us, I believe there are four more: another smith, another hunter, though one that tends toward the criminal element, a sailing weather mage, and a warrior. If I am correct, the hunter and the mage currently are in the Atlantean heartland, the smith is on the outskirts of their territory, and the warrior is preparing his tribe to move into Southern Africa, out of the Cisharbi's grasp.
I... don't believe there is anything more to say, sir. We have not yet had much time to prepare, and I believe it would take another empire to begin facing the one that the Cisharni have built."

EVENT: THE TELEPORTING MERCHANT
The prince released you from his grip. He returned to his seat and leaned back. “ I like you, Sindari. I wish you the best of luck in your fight against Atlantis. However, we are safe behind our walls, and Atlantis dare not bring itself against us. The Dragon King will not approve of your presence in our lands. He despises the Cisharni, and your aura is too similar for him to be comfortable with running amok around his lands.”

He grinned, “ Your services are too valuable, however, to dismiss entirely. The Adjilia Carvan has only been operating for 3 years now, and my operatives report that your caravan take up nearly a quarter of an area’s trade. I was going to take your company for myself, but now I see that perhaps the reason it is so sucessful is you. Tell me, how do you appear in 5 different villages in as many days, selling foreign goods that were not in your cart the day before?”

"Why, something like that would be a trade secret... if I thought anyone could replicate it. I am of the Mercuritia caste of the Sindari, sir, a messenger. The part that makes us unique amongst our fellows is our ability to teleport to any location we or another Sindari has been before. While on the road here, it swiftly became clear to me the boon that this could be in the field of trade: I can always buy my goods at their least expensive, sell them where they catch the greatest price. It takes a caravan a year to travel the length of the Silk Road; I can be anywhere and back inside an hour. The fact you have seen me in only five villages in five days tells me that you haven't been watching closely enough.
As of the moment, I am the only one of my caste, but Sind has gifted us with the power to make others into fellow Sindari. However, it would remove their memories of their past life, and, as we have not yet done it, we don't know what effect it may have on the Sindari that does the empowering."

He leaned forward, “It is indeed lucky that I have found you. My Father would not be so inclined to listen to your pleas before destroying you outright on the spot. Your abilities are just as intriguing as they are disturbing. But I see potential in you to help China.”

“So I offer you this bargain. You will only come to this castle, we will prepare a room for you. You will deposit your goods, and we will give you fine silks in payment for you to take back. You and other Sindari will be barred from the rest of China, for your own protection, of course. How does this arrangement suit you?” He flashes a predatory grin at this.

A. Agree outright.
B. Negotiate for better terms, but you find this ultimately agreeable, need to include what terms you negotiate.
C. Negotiate for better terms, but you find this ultimately disagreeable. Need to include terms, and warning this option may be dangerous to your health.
D. Refuse. Very dangerous to your health.
E. Other!

"Sir, before I accept, I should like to know: do these opinions extend to the people of Japan? It is important; two of my compatriots are currently there, and while I can teleport, they cannot."

In addition, I begin setting the back of my mind to preparing a teleport. Should things go south, I should like to be able to make a hasty exit. This is only if the preparation is inconspicuous (by both means visible to normal people and those with magical senses), however.

The prince shifted, “I do not know how the Spirits of Japan will find your presence, I know they oppose the Dragon King and those of his blood. As long as you stay out of the reach of our armies and lands, you may go where you wish. I do not believe you are our enemy, but others among our family will not be so quick to accept one who is so like a Cisharni. Now then, to our arrangement?”
As he spoke, Acter began the build-up to his teleport as he spoke. At a certain point he would begin to glow, usually about a minute now before he would actually teleport. He would build up to that point and then stop, saving the process until he would need to use it.

"Very well then. However, if it is so dangerous for me and my brethren to be here in China, I suspect it would be dangerous for you to be found dealing with the Sindari. I will inform the others that they are unwelcome here, and will remove my holdings from the country. For your own safety, I will not be returning.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll be returning to my route, and informing my caravans that we are no longer permitted to do our trade in China. I bid you farewell."
Teleport out.

As he spoke, Acter continued the process of teleportation, gradually brightening . At farewell, Prince Fireheart’s face twisted with rage and leapt at him with his sword drawn, Acter dodged out of the way, the prince’s blade merely scoring him along the ribs. The hapless caravan guards were slaughtered where they stood as Acter teleported away.
In one of Acter’s warehouses he stood up, grimacing at the pain of the sword blow. Feeling it, he winced. It must have cracked a rib, it would take a day or two for his recuperative powers to heal that one up. But at least he got out of there alive.
Prince Fireheart stood there, sword still extended, heart pounding with rage. He slammed his sword down into the chair where Acter had sat, and swore dark vengeance on the Sindari. He muttered darkly that they, and their brothers the Cisharni in Atlantis, would feel the wrath and the fire of the dragon.

EVENT THE TELEPORTING MERCHANT CONCLUDED

Spoiler: Staring-At-Stars, the Old Guy of Questionable Sanity (click to show/hide)

Awake at last, the old man looked around the horizon, and walked to the north. To the North, for the stars were clearer there, and shined welcomingly.

Wander North and East.

Study the stars for three years. Name them, or learn their names from people I meet.

Spend three years doing research into the stars and their powers (Astral Magic).

Spend another two years researching the effects of astral magic on objects. (Enchantment/artificer work)

Spend a year learning to make basic tools from stone and wood.

Make a staff, and attempt to bind the power of the stars of travel to said staff.

Intended results:
Six points in Astral Magic, four points in enchantment using said magic (Is that a necessary distinction at this stage of limited knowledge?)
Two points in some "Basic Crafting" skill, whatever that may be.
Information on the stars, their positions, names, and any stories associated with them.

TURN 3 AA 20-30

Artemis stood at the edge of the Reflecting Pool, its enchanted water gently lapping at her feet. She scanned the waters with her eyes, probing to find her missing friend and servant, Orion. He disappeared years ago, and in all likelihood dead. The Oracle was no help either, and Apollo was as much a help as he was a hinderance, scouring the hinterlands of Greece.

   The Inquisitor's voice intruded on her contemplation. “Artemis, you need to look at this.”

She furrowed her brow, but let her mind wander the familiar pathways, and she was there, looking through the
Inquisitor’s eyes as they shared the Connection that bound all Cisharni together.

   On the ground before her lay one of her tokens, a stag with an arrow in its head and moon emblazoned on its chest. It was Orion’s.

   “We found one of the last temples remaining of Sind’s. There was nothing here, aside from a few scattered pieces of clothing, and this. There was a village outside, but they knew nothing except that 20 years ago the temple doors shut for a year, and then people left. When put to the question they revealed nothing else”

   She felt her body beginning to tremble back at the Pool. “Are you sure that there was nothing else?”

   The Inquisitor shrugged,” We scoured the place, but we are about to tear it down. I just thought you would want to know about your token. Any idea of how it got here?”

   She shook her head violently, “No, I have no clue how it could have gotten there. Very strange, thank you for bringing this to my attention. Good luck with your efforts.”

   The Inquisitor bowed his head, “And with yours, Artemis.”

Back at the pool, she gasped for breath. She frantically scanned through the Pool, holding the token in her mind, and the Temple of Sind. She could vaguely glimpse Orion entering the temple. . . and then nothing. She raised her eyes from the pool, hard set and determined. Clearly something had happened at the Temple, and she would find out what.

China:
   Ruled by the Dragon King, the Kingdom of China is isolationist by nature, admitting few foreigners and keeping a close watch as they enter. Hordes from the north take much of their attention, and the Atlantean Empire is sometimes discussed by the nobility with disdain, and perhaps a little fear. However, the Kingdom of China at the moment is strong, her armies proud. They worship the Dragon King as provider and protector, and his sons and daughters as his divine servants. They provide leadership to the Kingdom, as princes and princesses.

Japan:
   Currently a mess of warlords each competing to be Shogun. Skirmishes are constant, and there is no peace to be found on the Island. You have not been contacted by any spirits or forces yet, but they are said to be independent of man.

STATE OF THE EMPIRE:
   The Atlantean Empire continues to grow and expand. Gaul has been pacified with the help of Roman legions, and Greek and Egyptian forces are pacifying the newly conquered region of Persia. The pressures of funding this war pushed some areas of Egypt to the edge of rebellion, and nomadic tribes are beginning to raid their city counterparts.

Spoiler: CHARACTER STUFF (click to show/hide)

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Skill boosted from last decade: presence, now at 6

Year 1: Gather devoted followers. Formula: 10*presence (6), for 60 worshippers. Set aside 20 of those for a family of 4 Adept farmers to tend to the farm in Adjilia, and another 10 for two Adept caravan-leaders from my company, for 36 worshippers total. This provides 2 bonus points.
+2 to Agility for a score of 4, and a bonus to my teleportation ability (shorten from 20 minutes to 10).

Year 2: Gather general followers. Formula: 10*presence (6)*influence (55), for 3300 general followers. Divide by 5 for 660 skilled general followers (all Adepts). 110 Adept blacksmiths, 110 Adept sailors, 50 Adept traders, 390 Adept assorted fighters. The blacksmiths are to set up a smithing factory, and 250 of the fighters will be working as a mercenary corp, both of which will be counted as additional companies of mine (investments will be stated at end of writeup), while the sailors will set up the naval division of Adjilia Caravans ("Adjilia Caravels").

Years 3-10: Trade. Trade just as I have been doing, but this time, all 8 years give me training in trading, which will put me at Legendaey trading, with 13 points. Not for this turn, though.
Profit formula: 5 skill * 365 days * 8 years = 1460 gold. In addition, I earned 200 additional gold from Adjilia Caravans, for 1660 gold earned this decade.

400 will be invested back into AC, 600 will go toward the new blacksmith factory (name Foundry Steelworks), 600 will go toward the mercenary corp (name Silver Legion), and I will use another 100 (I'd have 152 gold left over even after all of that) to buy the best boat I can, leaving me 52 gold for other spending money.

Expected Results:
-Trade skill goes from 5 (Adept) to 13 (Legendary)
-Veritable army of followers, with a nice amount of worshippers
-Money. All the money. Distributed as explained.
-More influence. Money always comes with influence. The only question is how much - and it will be more than last time, I'm sure.
--Also, +160 influence from new investments
---It's capped at 100 influence. I'll be at 100 influence next turn.
-Bonuses from company synergy? Adjilia Caravans (and Caravels) can distribute goods from Foundry Steelworks and get them the materials they need for free, Foundry Steelworks can provide better (or at least, more) equipment to Silver Legion for free, and Silver Legion can provide guards to Adjilia Caravans for free. Also, I'm calling them AC, FS, and SL from now on. Yes, I get *1.5, so total profit will be 2700 gold per turn.

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

Masamune found the land of Japan shattered and broken by war. A tragedy, really, but perhaps the shards could be reforged into one blade to strike at Atlantis. First, though, like any job of forging, one had to prepare the materials.

Spend one year reinvesting 70 gold into expanding my smith's guild

The metal that had to be prepared in this endeavor was gold, and not iron. Masamune took his various earnings and expanded his leadership of Japan's various smiths, and soon much gold was flowing back to his pockets.

Spend three years focusing on family

Masamune needed others to carry on his purpose and his lineage. And, in truth, he yearned for companionship other than that of apprentices and warlords. He found a bride, Junko, in the family of the warlord he served, and together they bore two children, a girl Hotaru and a boy Ichirou. He told her of his nature, of his secret mission.

Spend a year studying how to enchant an item so that it hid the wearer's supernatural aura, especially from Cisheri sight.

Masamune needed to carry out his tasks in secrecy from his foes, as they were powerful and canny. He used his natural talents and years of study to develop a weave of magic that could be inlaid into metal, that made one appear as no more and no less than any other human, rather than showing one's divine spark.

Spend three years gathering a following.

For tales of his own divinity were about to spread, and by his own lips they went. Of how he was a god of metal and craftwork, a truly divine bastion of self-improvement - with his wife as one of his highest priests.

Spend two years researching tales of a legendary divine metal, Hihiirokane. Make my search public. Spread the rumor that I will offer my skill to anyone who can locate it for me - but deny it in person, until the metal itself is brought to me.

To forge a nation, one would require the keenest tools. He had heard fireside stories of a reddish-golden metal, stronger than any steel and possessed of unusual amounts of raw magical power. He believed it was possible that such a thing could exist, and so he began to seek it out. Masamune let it be said that he would forge anything for anyone who could give him the divine material - though, wishing to avoid the ire of the warlord he worked under, did not say so himself.

Expected Results:

Business now worth 13 gold/action, up from 6
Net gain of [-700 + (130*9) + (60*1)] = 530 silver for a total of 1224 silver at the end of the decade
+7 Influence in Japan
+1 Enchanting
Gain knowledge of "Hide Divine Aura/Hide from Cisheri" enchantment
Gain a wife, Junko, 23, female child Hotaru, 8, male child Ichirou, 7
Gain [11+7 influence]*[2 presence]*[3 years] = 108 followers.
Locate Hiirohikane? Possible other events?

Spoiler: Flak (click to show/hide)

Take one year to convince the Zaeim that I am not human and to move further south below the desert.
Spend two Help my kids learn to control and develop their power.
Spend four years Fighting in the Zaeim's Guard
Spend three years fighting and training my eagle to help spot enemies.

Results

The Zaeim was slowly but surely convinced to move the tribe further south, below the Desert.
Nenet is strong like me, he will make a good soldier of the tribe. Neith is like me, stronger, faster, and able to understand a bird. The bird is smaller than my Eagle, but no less suited to her than Ramah is to me.
We fought off many attacks on the Zaeim's life, but my men always succeeded
I got Namah used to fighting beside and above me, we are working on him spotting targets and attacking them.

+7 swordsmanship.
The entire tribe moving south below the desert.
Nenet becomes a soldier of The Tribe, Neith becomes a scout of The Tribe.
Ramah is able to pick out leaders of attacks and tries to kill them.
+70 goats.

Whoops, forgot about this for a bit... Uh, can somebody bring me up to speed on what's going on?

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

-Actions
(spent one attribute point on agility with x2 Santoris multiplier)
Spend a year managing the informant network
Spend two years expanding the informant network into neighboring cities
Spend three years perfecting stealth
Spend a year working with criminal contacts
Spend three years perfecting deception skill

-Fluff
Ammon busied himself managing his informant network, hungrily gobbling up any information they could gather. But it wasn't enough. He needed to be able to use what he learned to help the other Sindari. He made plans to expand his network into neighboring eastern cities to move it closer to where the other Sindari had set up. All the while he practiced his skills becoming an expert of sneaking and deception.

-Expected results
+676 silver coins
+400 general followers
+5 stealth skill (brought up to legendary)
+6 deception
((Well we pissed off a Chinese Prince and we've all headed in different directions and are all mostly just training and improving))

There's not much to catch up on, ATHATH, just read through the thread. It won't take long.

Anyway, if you care to join in, pick a player to be your magic forefather, add another two skill points to your character (due to it being turn 3), and make a turn.

Spoiler: Star Watching (click to show/hide)

Travel to the straits between Russia and America (Continue moving north and east, but more steadily now that I have a magic compass staff). One year, give or take.

Travel across the Americas, find a comfortable spot with plenty of raw materials and stay there.

Construct a basic settlement there, and construct some mines and such. And build a nice tower, above the trees somewhere, to observe the stars. Three years.

Spend two years figuring out how to work the metals I can find.

Spend two years searching for spells of the stars.
---A spell of "starlight", which produces a soft glow around me and allows me to see or do useful work through the night.
---A spell of past-sight, guided through the stars, which have watched everything.

Spend a year making contact with local tribes. Any worshippers of Sind are welcome in my settlement, but the goal is merely to make friends among the locals.

Anticipated results:
Arrival in America (UP of Michigan, or anywhere else that I might conceivably reach. I don't know enough about the rest of the continent's resources to choose something else.)
Construction of an extensive homestead/settlement with lots of available resources and a nice astronomy tower.
Four points of Smithing skill.
Discovery of spells in Astral Magic.
Five points of Influence in the local area.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Year 21-30

Year 1-10
Train with Ninjas.

Expected Results
+9 to stealth
+3 to Archery
+5 to hunting
New magic, hiding: The Santoris tracking power has a harder time focusing on me and my magic trail is harder to track.
Rigel woke up screaming in pain, his thoughts conquered by a splitting headache. Images raced through his head, a crystal pool, a beautiful girl, a token of a dead stag, and a grizzled man in a brown leather long coat. Every image hurting more and more as they pass. Suddenly, with one last scream of pain, the images vanished. "Sumōkuhantā!" one of the ninjas ducked their head into his tent, "are you ok, I heard screaming?" "I'm fine Hiretsuna," Rigel responded, "you can go back to guarding." "Yes sir," responded Hiretsuna, and he backed out of the tent. Rigel fell back onto his cot. He didn't know what that was, or who the images were, but there was something about the girl... a memory came up, a hunt by moonlight, an arrow flying through the air, biting insults and... joy? He didn't understand it, but he memorized it, running each detail through his head, over and over. Whatever it was, it felt important, and he was a hunter, he trusted his instincts.

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

Miles' business continued to expand to the point he was able to buy a second ship.
He would often bring his sons to work with him, knowing he would one day have to pass the business to them.
1x Invest in business 40G + 40G
8Gold x 10years = 80G
1x Gather devoted following
+19 skill 0 Followers
1x Train skill: Trade

He continued gathering magical strength, harvesting the souls of the dying and developing his skills.
1x Make soul gems
2x Train magic:Weather control
1x Train magic:Lightning

Olivia bore a third daughter (Violet age 9) and Miles spent considerable time improving the family's position, seeking to find an influential husband for Lily and a reliable wife for Mark.
3x Focus on family
1 follower point for a reliable wife
-5.8 gold for a dowry

Attributes: +1 for time
Strength:2 Agility:2 Intelligence:8+2 Willpower:4 Perception: 4 Presence:2
Wealth/Assets: Gold 40.8 + 34.2
Shipping business(80 gold)
7 +8 Soul gems
1 Hurricane gem for Amelia
Influence:14 + 4
Worshipers/Power:33 + 19 worshipers
10 skill 3 Sailors
3 Skill 3 Fighters
39 skill 0 Followers
Family:Wife Olivia
Daughter Lily aged 21: 4/6 Sindari More Sindari traits than human. Lives 100 to 200 years longer than average. Strong recuperative abilities. Very strong, fast, and intelligent.
New husband?
Son Mark aged 18: 4/6 Sindari
New wife?
Daughter Rose aged 15: 3/6 Sindari Lives 50 to a 100 years longer, faster and stronger than normal.
Son Steven aged 12: ⅙ Sindari: Completely human.
New daughter Violet aged 9:
Skills:
Sailing 6
Trade 2 +2
Magic:
Weather control 6 +4
Lightning 2 +2

I'm not entirely sure how to handle my children's families but I assume it's going to need some gm involvement. The goal is to find the heir to an influential family for Lily and a reliable wife who can help Mark when he takes over as head of the family.

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 3rd turn (click to show/hide)

4 years on Persuasion
Amelia was concerned from the telepathic updates on China. If that was the case; the Sindari and the Cisharni were not significantly the only 'divinities' in existence. There were other wielders of magic and other such arts. She decided to travel all over her locality, from thoroughfares to local villages, getting to know the people therein and their culture, and to train in the skill she found to be most contemplative and providencial, common and powerful: social skills.
The first years were spent gradually using and alchemizing the mine trailings from her workings decades ago--to keep the environment safe, and to use these "useless" material for the benefit of others. More baubles were given, and charms to amulets being presented and made to the local culture--the "amulet(s)" in particular also becoming a sign of personal protection and being.

2 years on Persuasion being used to spread the Philosophy of Sind in the village I first went to, and the surroundings ones.

Spoiler: Details (click to show/hide)

Amelia found the knack of innate polyglotism to be of great value--in retrospect, through the years she also found that this insight of perception to be of great value to others. She found a common root of connection: motivation and perception. She was averse to manipulation, and learned through many a fault and misunderstanding that context was of utmost importance to achieve or pave a way for mutual understanding.
Not always did persuasion work; it was a two-way street which needed the other to participate even in the slightest of will. She could not influence those who fully opposed her words; but as words conveyed meaning, years of socializing and putting others into her memory brought wisdom. Communication, she found, was the greatest bridge between people--from mountain to lowland--and isolation was its greatest enemy. Regardless of geographical position, people worked with perception; perception worked on concept, and concept depended on meaning and the environment around you. She was humbled by what she saw in people; they were kind overall--there were also problems, but these were not found to represent the people at all, in their entirety. She found problems always coming from a source, and saw patterns as a response to these sources. In that, she decided to start her journey in focusing in talking with others, not just to them, and rather than make her ideals focused on Sind--to refocus on the definitive idea of guidance. Through the years, she realized how Time was the "great enemy", and yet saw even those who wilted in age embraced change and the coming years. Thus such, she decided to create a philosphy made by people--for people, even perhaps when people like her would be gone. All in time.
2 years on Persuasion in interacting with the regional authorities, far and wide.

Spoiler: Details (click to show/hide)

In her journies, Amelia met others--always people to spend time with. Few stayed for weeks, and even fewer for months on the same trail and path as herself. She found communicating very enjoyable--and bereft of mortal needs, quite a stimulating experience. She learned to love and memorize, both the songs and ideas of each culture, tribe, and town she went to. The expanse of the air, the stars, sky, and seas, too, were of beautiful mention.
At last arriving back at her cave--with nothing disturbed other than the natural forces taking hold over the years of her absence, she decided to utilize both her skill in alchemy and artificiery to design templates for further use. Her skill in mining to locate and design the caverns to her will--with tools she picked up and created or bought along the way, and with what she had observed of architecture and its complexities--in just a few years, she would create a way to span the underground and create a replica of the overland. That was the goal of course, but first she had to provide for all mortal needs--a daunting task fit for the years invested in it. No sleep or rest, as she needed none, but passion and focus.
2 years on utilizing Engineering to create a very stable foundation (at least in the earliest and most accessible of the underground caverns) for habitation and living.

Spoiler: Details (click to show/hide)

Expectations:
> Better, and extremely stable base foundations.
> +12 Persuasion; Follower gain, region knowledge update. Possible ideas of local knowledge on Cisharn/i
> +2 Engineering. Possible forecast of difficulty in making a replica of aboveground environment to belowground.

EVENT: ASCENSIONS

THE SHADOW WALKER
   Rigel was deep in meditation when the Master entered. Clothed in dark robes that concealed his body, Rigel knew that despite his age the old ninja leader was very much lethal. The Master bowed his head,
   “ Shadow Walker, your time has come. A target befitting a potential master ninja has emerged. The warlord Tonga has become powerful, and his ascension would not serve the clans best interests. Kill him. There is also a famed smith in his employ with delusions of godhood, eliminate him as well. Do this, and your place as a master ninja is assured, and you may become a leader of Clan Orikin, or start your own clan with our blessing. Be careful, Tonga is known as a strong warrior, avoid the reach of his blade.”
How do you respond?

THE BEAST OF THE SOUTH
   The enemy lay before Flak, servants of the Pharaoh and turncoat to the very freedom of the desert. The Zaeim(chief) has chosen you to lead one of the detachments against their forces. What force do you lead?
A.The main force, bearing the brunt of the assault.
B. Flanking Cavalry force.
C. Ambush detachment.

MASTER OF WINDS
   Wavebringer stared at his daughter, Lily, young and beautiful. Several suitors have asked for her hand, and you need to decide who to choose for her to marry.
A young nobleman, son of Roman Senator. They are not very powerful, and will be looking for financial support for their aims.
A merchant of Carthage. They seek to integrate your shipping company with their own with this marriage.
At one of your many ports of call, a rising Atlantean captain has become smitten with your daughter. While currently not in any real authority position and will likely want some money, this could potentially give you a way to infiltrate Atlantis.

“Master” responded Rigel, “I will willingly slay the warlord Tonga, but his smith is an old friend of mine, it would be much better for the clan should he live, I can easily convince him to help us, he simply wants to work with someone with power.”

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

The Master considers for a moment, then shakes his head. "No, that can only draw attention to the clan. I am sorry, but your friend must be sent on. In light of your friendship, I will send another to deal with the smith while you eliminate the warlord. "

"Master, while I regret to do this, I will not allow my friend to die. I challenge you for leadership of the clan."

The Master shifts his stance, to one ready to leap to either attack or to evade one.
"I see," he tersely replies, "I accept your challenge, hand to hand combat in front of the Clan at midnight, and the victor shall be Master of the Clan."

The Zaeim orders me to take a small squad of 5 other warirors and to attack from the rear.

THE BEAST OF THE SOUTH

Spoiler: Rolls (click to show/hide)

Flak lead a small group behind the enemies lines. While horsemen clashed and swirled together, the main body of the enemies infantry charged into the lines of the Alzilu Altawil. The archers lined up behind the main force, and thats where Flak launched his charge. An archer turned and saw the attack and shouted a warning, but before they could mount an effective defense you were among them. You first stroke took the head off an an archer, and then you blinked to away to the next target, your blade in his chest. The archers soon broke and scattered, helpless against you.
What do you do?
A. Finish off the archers
B. Charge into the main body of infantry
C. Try to find the enemy chief

The Zaeim can handle the other chief, I shall go after the archers.

THE BEAST OF THE SOUTH

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

Flak and his 5 men easily chase down the fleeing archers, blinking after them and cutting them down to the last man. As he does that, he hears a cry from the chaos of the main battle, and looks over to see the severed head of your Zaeim hosted by an armored warrior on horseback.
What do you do?

The Zaeim has died? Blink over to the other Zaeim,killing any of those that try to stop me, and show him the strenght of SIND (decapatate him)

Miles spoke to his daughter about her options, discussing their benefits and seeing if she had a preference.

The carthaginian would be useful, but didn't offer anything the family couldn't build for it's self.
The roman was a step up the social ladder, giving the family a foothold in Rome's ruling class.
The atlantean offered the greatest risk, but also the greatest reward. He would give the family a source of intelligence inside Atlantis and since his interest was personal there would be a greater chance of a happy marriage. But Lily was likely to have an unusually long life and if anyone was going to figure out why that was it would be the atlanteans.

If she did not have a preference, then if she was willing to accept the risk he would recommend the atlantean or otherwise the roman.

THE BEAST OF THE SOUTH

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

Crying out in rage, Flak tears his way through the enemy army, blinking in and slashing apart enemies and disappearing again before the survivors have time to react. The enemy chief turns and sees him coming, and he hurriedly gets on a horse to gallop away. Flak blinks in front of him, and leaps into the air, smashing into the Zaeim and knocking him onto the ground. They both scramble to their feet, and the enemy chief yells and strikes out, but the blow is easily blocked by Flak, who deflects the blow and slashes into the shoulder. The force of the blow sunders the armor and shatters the sword. Flak reacts quickly and shoves the jagged sword into the enemy chief’s throat, and wrenches hard, sending both blood and the man’s head flying.

Men, both Alzilu Altawil and those of the the other tribe, stare at Flak in awe. Some even bow and start singing his praise.
What do you do?
A.Accept their worship, force the survivors to either serve you or die.
B.Deny their worship, force the survivors to serve or die.
C.Accept their worship, order your forces to kill the rest of the enemy tribe.
D.Deny their worship, order your forces to kill the rest of the enemy tribe.

MASTER OF WINDS AND WAVES

Spoiler: Rolls (click to show/hide)

“Father,” Lily sighs, “ I will respect your wishes whatever you decide. But Julius and I are in love! He has promised that together we will one day rule Rome together! He has promised that he would be a good and faithful husband!, he swears!”

(A)
You may call me as you wish. Those of the Alharb Al'awlad who wish to live, kneel, and those who wish to fight, then you will die by my hands.

Set up a large amount of smoke bombs around the camp, so that a vibration would set them off, then spend the fight in smoke form, but still bobbing and weaving around his punches, try to tire the master out. Also, use the Sindari mind link to learn as much as I can of what Flak knows about close range combat.

Miles smiles at his daughter "Then you shall marry Julius and I wish you all the happiness your mother and I have shared."

He will make an additional five gold available for Lily to use at HER discretion to advance her husbands ambitions. And he will speak Julius very politely making sure he knows that if he treats his wife as a partner and listens to her advice he will have the family's support, but if he does not listen then he won't, and if he mistreats her... well a smart young man like him would never do that would he.

THE BEAST OF THE SOUTH
   At his call to kneel or die, his former enemies looked at one another and bowed, having no desire to die. Over the coming days and weeks, stories were told and shared of their savior, the first in battle and their fearsome champion. Some compared the Beast to a lion, others to a hawk. Everyone knew that he had the new tribe’s devotion.
+15 Influence
+ 120 devoted followers
EVENT CONCLUDED

MASTER OF WIND AND WAVES
   Lily beams at you, “As you wish Father,” and hugs you. At your next stop in Rome, you met Julius. He was a tall young man with a bright demeanor, but seemed suitably grave when you told him to treat your daughter well. How much do you spend on the wedding? (Rate of 2 gold for 1 influence).

THE SHADOW WALKER

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

   Rigel sneaked around the camp, planting smoke bombs in places where he could cause the most confusion. He didn’t know how to modify the explosives to go off with vibrations, but he assumed he could shoot them with a bow and get the same effect.
   The time came, and Rigel entered the building in which he and the master would fight. It was small, with a semi-circle in the middle, and a ring around it in which the elders of the clan looked on. The Master waited at one end, clothed in grey peasant garb, looking loose and poorly made, but Rigel knew from experience that it in no way hindered his movements. Hirotsuna explained the rules, that it would be fought until surrender, and then a new Master would emerge. He looked at both of the fighters, nodded, then shouted begin.

Immediately Rigel transformed into Smoke From, his body billowing into a formless smoke. Curiously, all of his now gassy body would not move past the boundaries of the semicircle. The Master kneeled down.
“I have trained with you for years, Sumōkuhantā, I know that you cannot harm me from that smoke. Come, face me, or acknowledge me as Master.”

   Rigel tried to use this time to contact Flak and gather knowledge on how to fight hand to hand, but he was unable to get anything of real substance other than hit hard and hit often. (Mind link doesn’t allow transfer of skills).

The wedding was small and elegant with a select guest list. Among the entertainments was a collection of foreign oddities Miles had gathered in his travels.
-4 gold +2 influence

"Very well then," Reenter normal form and fight the master.

I really hope this works, if I am about to lose, give me one last response.

THE SHADOW WALKER

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

Rigel returns to his normal form, and launches into a barrage of kicks and punches. Despite not being trained in hand to hand combat and focusing entirely on ranged attack, he still picked up a few things from watching the other ninjas training.

The Master, however, showed why he was at the position. Despite Rigel’s greater speed, he picked the Sindari’s blows out of the air, and launched into one furious kick after another. One kick broke some ribs, a punch thrown was caught and twisted, dislocating the arm from the shoulder. A quick spin from the Master sent his foot snapping into Rigel’s head, sending him flying backward, smashing his nose.

The fight lasted less than a minute.

The Master looked down on the battered and bloody Rigel.
“You are a masterful ninja, Sumōkuhantā, but you are no match for me yet. Do you surrender?”

I think I'm gonna have to drop out of this one. While it is interesting, I don't think that I can make detailed posts often enough to keep up with you guys.

Bye ATHATH. :(

"I'm sorry master, but I refuse, I will not allow my brother to die if I can help it."

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

The Master looked down at you gravely, “You have fought bravely and with honor. I will not order the death of your friend, your spirit will move freely from this world.”

The Master’s hand chopped into his throat. A cut off gasp was all that was heard from Rigel. His next blow was to the skull, and the next, and the next. Blood flew and splatter the Master’s face as his fist came down again and again. He stood and looked at the ruined wreck of Rigel’s face. He sighed and held out his hand. A short blade was solemnly placed in it. It hovered over Rigel’s chest,

“Be at peace, Sumōkuhantā.”

The sword dove down.

THE SHADOW WALKER
Rigel awoke with a deep breath, then furiously coughing as dirt cascaded down his throat. He scrambled out of the shallow hole, dirt pouring off his clothes as he threw up. He saw his bow and arrows scattered next to him, probably buried with him. Rigel felt his face. Still a mess, he mused. His heart sluggishly beat, regenerating the damage from the stab wound. He stumbled to his feet. He had no idea if the Ninja clan would still accept him if he came back. He took one tentative step after another. His path would continue.

EVENT CONCLUDED:
NEAR DEATH: ATTRIBUTE MALUS, ATTRIBUTES CAPPED AT TWO UNTIL REBIRTH
LOST INFLUENCE WITH NINJA CLAN, BELIEVED TO BE DEAD

TURN 4 AA 30-40
   The Inquisitor tapped his fingers on the gold frame surrounding the Terra Atlas, the map forming mountains and valleys and rivers, with growing clusters of cities. The teams of Dwarves responsible for the map’s upkeep scrambled, receiving reports and updates and inputting the information, which was then reflected in the map itself.

Gromfin continued, “ Once we suspected that Adjila Caravans were using a teleporter, we had agents seed detection crystals all over the continent. Over the past few months we have seen many rapid teleports over the trade route. All known teleporters are currently accounted for, so the merchant that appears across the continent all on the same day is our man.”

   Gromfin turns and shrugs, “Or maybe not a man, some other kind of being. Perhaps one that is like us. We sent Red Dawn to investigate, and perhaps take out the target. We equipped him with some anti-teleportation devices and sent him to their headquarters.”

    Turning back to the map, Gromfin reaches over and twists a few knobs. Blossoms of light appear on the map, alongside several dark clouds. A huge storm cloud forms over the West, over the Uncharted lands. Another twist removes the overhanging clouds, leaving the blue lights.

   “These are the locations where some form of magical activity has taken place. A few of these are elvish sanctuaries, but there are a few that don’t fit the pattern. There are some locations that appear in the sea, but we can only locate the residue months later.”

   He brightens then, “In better news, the armies and legions are on the borders of India now, subjugating the border kings there. We may be able to anticipate subjugation of the region in another decade or so.”

   The Inquisitor thanked the squat Cisharni, and departed. Mysterious events were happening, and it was his job to discover what they were.

EVENT 100 INFLUENCE REACHED

Spoiler: Response Level (click to show/hide)

Out in the headquarters for Adjila Caravans, the Silver Shields and foundry steelworks, Acter met with several company leaders and discussed profits and problems. Profits were good, and the foundries were getting run night and day to equip the armies and levies that the border kings of India were raising. The Silver Shields were keeping busy as well, fighting several successful actions against one Greek army fighting on the Northern border of India. Acter was pleased, but then felt a fuzzy feeling deep in his guts, one that he hadn’t felt before. Before he could excuse himself, the Silver Shields at the door shared a concerned look at each other, and the one on the right glanced out the door.

   Screams and the sounds of combat broke the peace of the meeting room. Acter looked alarmed, and tried to begin his countdown to teleportation. It felt wrong, the trickle of energy that accompanied it was no longer there. By the time Acter focused on what was happening, a Silver Shield was grabbing Acter and pulling him towards the other door, while the other was fighting. . . something at the door. One last glance revealed the guard falling, his chest baring a bloody hole.

Standing there was a man, perhaps. Large, and covered in strange red and black chitinous armor, with spikes protruding almost organically from its form. At its waist dangled a metal device that framed a large crystal, glowing with power. Its face was divided into a red and black half, both sides perfectly smooth, broken only by a mouth and round black eyes. A spark seemed to pass between them, and Acter knew then that he stared into the face of a Cishanri.

What do you do?

World Status Update:
   India is definitely in a mess at the moment. Fractured into many different kingdoms, for the most part they have lived in a relatively peaceful existence with each other. Now, there is no peace in the land.
   Atlantean agents and spies sowed discord, turning rulers and kings against each other, some supporting Atlantis and others defiant. The flames of war run hot here.
   Elsewhere the Empire is at peace. Persia still has flare ups of rebellion, but they are little more than practice for armies before they are sent to the front.
   Ammon’s criminal network expands from the city of Dashun throughout Egypt, and into some areas of Persia, and a few contacts beyond. Only a few “trusted”associates know how far his network spreads, and no one but him knows the full extent of it. Men speak of the “Rat Prince”, but no one really knows who it is, and the authorities believe it to be a myth.
In Japan, war continues. The death of the most powerful warlord Tonga has left a gapping power vacuum that many seek to fill, with blood and steel if that is what is required. At the moment there is no clear end in sight for the conflict.

Spoiler: Character Stuff (click to show/hide)

Glass, will need a response from you about the event. Sorry for the triple post!

...Sind damnit.

Activate the smoke bombs (either I got them from SM, or I'm the one who provides them to SM) and evacuate. Set off the alarm indicating a Code Red (that is, the alarm that says "we are being invaded, smiths and traders evacuate, Silver Legionnaires to arms). In addition, set off the secondary alarm for Code C (which tells everyone to conduct the procedure for if the Cisharni are invading; specifically, do all of the above procedures, and also everyone gets their severance packages (5 gold each, from the money invested in the companies) and instructions to do what they can to erase any ties to the companies I owned, and to make sure that everyone along the Silk Road knows that the Cisharni are invading). Inform the guards that getting that crystal and either destroying it or bringing it to me is of utmost importance.

Spoiler: Rolls (click to show/hide)

   Acter scrambles out of the guards grasp, and grabs the smoke bomb he hid underneath his desk. He arms and tosses it out at the Cisharni, who easily tore through his guard. The bomb landed and exploded, sending a cloud of smoke into the room. The cries and shouts of panic from the representatives of the various company branches as they suddenly lose vision threaten to overwhelm Acter, but he had a job to do.

He pulls on the lever he had installed, and an alarm bell begins to ring, barely audible over the sounds of fighting behind you. Determinedly he reaches for the second lever, a warning to scatter to the hills when a thrown dagger slams into your hand, pinning it against the wall. Acter cries out in pain, and grasps it and pulls it out. He stumbles over and with the last of his willpower pulls the second lever. He leans against the wall.

A look shows Acter a room full of corpses, covered in smoke and only the Cisharni standing, looking at him. He strides over confidently, and leans in close and grabs Acter’s throat.

   He gasped, and for a moment his grip wavers, but then tightens again as he regains focus. “Sindari,” the Cisharni breathes. “Cisharn has revealed Sind’s scheme to me. So, you wish to supplant us? We will hunt down the rest of your kind, no matter where in this world they hide!”

   “Goodbye, cousin.”

With this he whips his sword around and through Acter’s neck. Acter’s head flies off and bounces off the floor, and his body slumps to the ground.

   An essence of his soul flies free, a piece of the power of Sind, and seeks a new worthy host.

ACTER, SON OF SIND, TELEPORTING MERCHANT, HAS BEEN STRUCK DOWN

Can't say I wasn't expecting this.

Name: Octavian Grey
Alias: Courier
Appearance: He is covered in flesh-colored scales that fade to transparency in small areas, revealing underlying cogwork. He's slightly taller than Acter was, and skinnier, but could pass for him if it wasn't for his appearance of always being on edge (as opposed to Acter's relaxed, confident demeanor).
Class: Mercuritia
Abilities: Pocket Dimension (Adjilia, inherited), Teleport (duration 10 minutes, doesn't require focus)
Magic: none
Attributes: Strength:2 Agility*:8 Intelligence:3 Willpower:2 Perception*:2 Presence*:4
Wealth/Assets: 0
Influence: 0
Worshipers/Power: 4 adept farmers, and 32 currently people who worshipped Acter who might be able to be re-contacted (2 of which are adept traders)
Family:0
Skills: none

...who will save you now, who will save you now, tell the world I'm alive... Oh, good, you're awake.
Octavian rubbed his eyes. He was being propped up by the wall of a barn, and was laying on a small bed of hay. There was a vague purple light swimming in his vision. He was... mostly certain that he wasn't drunk.

So. Welcome to Adjilia. I'm Acter, and you currently have my soul inside of you. Well, some of it. The important magic parts, at least. Congratulations on your promotion to demigod.

There was a moment of silence. And then, Octavian, with wits finally gathered, made a single utterance that probably summed up the situation quite well:
"I'm sorry, what?"

As a whole, here's a summary of the guidance that Acter is giving to Octavian:

Don't start out by abusing your teleportation powers to make money. Oh, maybe for a year or two here and there, but make sure to divert attention from yourself afterwards.
Learn how to fight. It's going to come up, and when the Cisharni come for you, your guards are unlikely to be enough of an obstacle for you to escape. Know how to make a hit, know how to take a hit, and for Sind's sake, know how to avoid a hit.
Don't invest huge amounts of money in anything. It draws attention. Do it in small amounts, slowly, over time. If you own a company, it does not need to become a behemoth in the field in a matter of years; slow investment will get you just as much money in the long run, and will let your fame die down.
Try to meet back up with my old worshippers if you can; it'll be useful. Worshippers make you stronger. I'm currently redirecting their worship to me over to you, but they may start dropping off now that I've died. If you meet up with them, it'll ensure the continuation of the faith they have.

Aaaand the turn.

9 years of training. I want to have level 9 martial arts and dodging by the end. In addition, 10th year, I'll have visited all of Acter's old worshippers, making sure that they know that "Courier" is still alive and well (gather devoted followers: 10*pre[4], 40 people, 30 normal people + 2 adept traders to recover remaining worshippers of Acter), and a quick visit to the Silver Legion members to let them know the same thing.
This is all.

NOTE: Octavian was set up as if he had as many points from worshippers as Acter did, so I'm not adding any additional points for it right now.

Spoiler: Flak, The beast of the South,Zaiem Alzilu Altawil (click to show/hide)

Spend six years leading the Alzilu Altawil further south away from the Pharaoh's.
Spend a year Having the Alzilu Altawil settle down, learning what is safe and what is not safe.
Spend three years learning how to coat my weapons in fire, while leading the Alzilu Altawil.

The Alzilu Altawil made it to The middle Of Africa.
The Alzilu Altawil Know what is safe to eat/drink/touch.
flame spell: able to coat weapons in fire

+7 leadership
+80 goats
flame spell: able to coat weapons in fire

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

-Actions
Spent one attribute point on intelligence
Spend two years and 600 silver establishing safe houses and boltholes in the territory of my informant network
Spend two years managing the network and collecting any reports on the activities of Cishanri and the Atlantean authorities (which I will immediately tell everyone else about)
Spend two years working on illusion magic (the ability to fool the senses and generate new sensations and images for a target or a group with magic. Perception opposes: as the victim is more likely to notice inconsistencies in the illusion)
Spend two years practicing acrobatics
Spend two years practicing document forgery

-Fluff
The merchant was dead. The sudden realization caused grief and fear to wash over the gutter rat. It didn't take long for that grief and fear to be in turn chased out by anger. An old, half forgotten but yet very familiar rage pulsed through his veins. He was angry at the Cishanri for killing a Sindari, for silencing a voice he had known for so many years but mostly he was angry at his own inability to help, angry at his own impotence, his own helplessness. Even had he stood beside Acter he would have been able to do little. He was not a warrior and he would never be. His eyes peered from the alley he was lurking in to the busy street beyond. The people bustling past believed the Atlanteans had control over the city and by extension over them. But the gutter rat knew the truth; all control was an illusion. It was always a lie, only seeming true when people accepted it as the truth as they so often did. When the illusion falters the opportunists crawl out from the woodwork and struggle against each other in an attempt to convince them of a new illusion. It was so very rare that an Empire secure in its illusion of control would ever fall. It would surprise many how often the fates of nations were decided before swords were even drawn, their fates sealed by words and lies. A nation that the people believe is incapable of maintaining order will tear itself apart. A nation where the nobles no longer fear to disobey and act with impunity and greed will be at war with itself. Ammon was not a warrior and he would never be. He could not kill a Cishanri warrior in battle. He was no warrior but he was a liar. To an individual a single warrior is a great threat, but to a nation they are meaningless. A skilled liar was mostly harmless to an individual, but with the right lies they can bring down vast Empires.

Even if all other Sindari were slain Ammon would still stand and he would break the Atlantean Empire by himself if need be. But he was not ready, not yet there was more he needed to do before he started sowing disarray.

He started with making sure he had boltholes and places to hide and lie low. A mixture of buying some forgotten dilapidated buildings (through trusted proxies of course) and bribes secured him a number of safehouses.

Next he worked at managing his network and hungrily gathering any info that network produced on the Cishanri. Every little tidbit of info fed into an ever clearer picture of what was going on. The more he learnt the better he became at honing in on relevant information.

The magic of illusion was similar to mind magic in many ways but different in many crucial aspects. The art of illusion magic wasn't just the art of making convincing images but also sounds and if the illusionist was brave enough texture. (A good illusion could trick a person into feeling that they were touching something but texture is notoriously difficult to get right and people tend to notice when they can put their hand through something)

He also spent more time getting better at acrobatics. The Cishanri knew they existed now so Ammon felt it prudent to practice his ability to escape from danger.

And finally he began training how to copy official documents and signatures. In a wide spread empire the power of a convincing document slipped into the right place was incredible. He needed an impossibly talented forger. One with a perceptive eye for spotting flaws and minor differences. He needed such a person to be someone who he could trust with his entire plan, for if they went to the Cishanri all his work would be undone. In other words he needed to do it himself so he set about learning the art.

-Expected results
A few safe houses dotted about the place
Some knowledge of Cishanri activities
+4 Illusion
+4 acrobatics
+4 Forgery

5 years learning sabre combat
2 years training on how to handle animals
3 years training my blacksmithing

What i expect at the end of this:
+10 melle combat
+4 animal handling
+6 blacksmithing

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Year 31-40

Spend one year regenerating, looks the same but with a scar over his eye, several scars on his chest, back, and arms, and a special shuriken shaped scar where the masters sword entered and exited. All scars are simply cosmetic.
Spend one year getting to Russia.
Spend eight years training

Expected Results
+6 to trapping
+6 to smoke form
+4 to hunting

31-40
Year 1
Pain, sorrow, memory, these three things ran through Rigel's heads. He grimaced, headaches had become a common occurrence, they no longer hurt very much, neither did they break his focus. Acter was dead, this news would have made him cry if he was capable now, but his tear ducts hadn't fully reformed yet. He had grown close to Acter during their travel to the east, so he decided, he would not speak for a year, not that there would be many people to speak to if all things went as planned. He sat still and focused on his new form, the same as his first one, but marred with scars. The scars of his own, and ones for his fallen brother, it was only right.

Year 6
An arrow shot out, and pierced a deer straight through the eye, killing it instantly. Rigel walked forward to collect his kill. After his presumed death, he had returned to what felt right, hunting. It was the only thing that cleared his head of the memories and thoughts, funny, most of them were if hunting, but the hunt cleared them from his head. He almost laughed, but he was out of practice, he hadn't laughed in a long time. He rarely spent time with others, the closest thing being communicating with the other Sindari, but that was normally to state their situations, rarely idle chatter. Perhaps he should find a companion, but few would embrace his quiet and solitary lifestyle. Well, such a thing should be decided later, he had a catch to clean.

EVENT: THE LORD OF THE BLACKSMITHS
   It was a strange night, the air pregnant with rain, and something else Masamune couldn’t quite put his finger on. He meditated in a cleared space in the forge. It was smaller than what he was accustomed to, as he had still not quite decided if he would join a new warlord. For the moment he stayed at one of the forges of one of his former proteges.

   At this time of night only a few apprentices worked the forges. One of them, Okabe, showed some real potential, though he could stand to improve on his precision. A quick glance at his work revealed various defects, but it would more than do for a common samurai.

   A man walked in then, dressed in simple peasant garb. He looked around and spotted Masamune, and quickly approached and bowed deeply.

   “My lord, I have been asked to summon you. Our streams and water have run dry, and one can feel the rain in the air but it does not fall. Our priest has gone to the shrine by the edge of the lake, but to no avail. Only, this night he has returned and asked to bring the one who is staying with the smith. Would you come with me?”

What do you do?
A.Go with him.
B.Refuse.

Masamune wondered about the purpose behind his summoning. Was it to do with the following he had begun to gather? Metalwork had little or nothing to do with whatever curse seemed to lay on the weather, but perhaps he could develop some solution. . . Regardless, he was curious, and did not have reason enough to suspect this man. He stood up, and simply nodded.

Go with him.

Having given his assent, Masamune and the man walked into the night.

After an hour of walking, the man stepped to the side and pointed down the path with his torch. He bowed,
   “My lord, down this path is the shrine. The priest told me to wait here, and to send you on.”

   Having come this far already, Masamune shrugged, and inclined his head to the peasant. He continued, his path lit by the moon and starlight.

   At the end of the path he came to a pool, very quiet except for the trickle of the stream that entered and left the small pond. A small stone shrine, a simple pillar, lay upright in the ground, a small puddle of water at its base.

   “Thank you. . . for coming. . . Sindari.”

   Masamune’s head jerked up, and he laid his hand on the katana he wore, ready to draw and strike. But no one was there, as far as he could see.

   “Do not be. . . afraid. Your soul. . . is strong and vibrant. . . I could not help but. . . to call out to you.”
   “The land is wracked by. . . war and suffering. The rivers run red with blood. . . and are choked with ash. . .I can no longer stand idly by.”
   “So I called you here. . . Lord of the Blacksmiths. . . to do something for me. Forge a weapon yet unequaled in this island. . . shape a blade fit to be used by an emperor. . . so that all may stand in peace. . . together.”

What do you do?

A.Agree to her request (will use a year of your time). What attribute will you emphasize in your weapon?

   1. Strength: This weapon is made for the strong. Thick and brutal, it will be nigh invulnerable to damage. Its blows will shatter armor and cut through flesh easily. All will fear who wields it.

   2. Intelligence. This weapon is made for the quick thinker. Fast and light, used well it will never shatter, though if one unworthy wields it, it will quickly break. The sword is best used when exploiting an enemy's weakness, quickly finding it and dealing the death blow. All will respect those who can wield the blade.

   3. Willpower: This weapon is made for those with resolve. It cannot be broken, nor the spirits of those who fight on its side. It can only serve one true of purpose, those who are festered by doubts cannot use its full potential. The sword is suited for defence, and counter attacking when the opponent is left over extended. All will be inspired by this blade.

B. Refuse to do so.
C. Something else?

He had wondered when the spirits of the land would call to him. It seemed, at least for this one, that their goals aligned with his own. He wished to unite the lands, not only to present a united front against the Cisheri but also to end the ceaseless warring.

"Very well, great spirit. I shall fulfill your request to the best of my ability."

Forge a mighty blade, to be wielded by one with Intelligence.

When Masamune agreed, the skies opened up and rain fell once again on the earth. Out of the pool rose the form of a woman, the most beautiful he had seen. In her hands shone a small handful of metal, shimmering like fire. Gracefully she came to Masamune, and handed him the metal. As he held it, his knowledge and sense told him it was Hihiirokane, a legendary metal. Any weapon forged of this would be legendary indeed.

   Over the next year, Masamune labored in the small mountain village, they providing sustenance while he focused on this artifact. He would regularly be seen at the pool, discussing with the kami the future of Japan.

   About a year had passed and Masamune emerged from his workshop, holding the future of Japan relevantly. All who saw it agreed it was the finest thing they had seen. He took it to the kami of the water, and proudly presented it to her.

She took it gently from his hands and held it in her arms.

   “It is beautiful, Masamune. May you find the one who is worthy of wielding it.” She smiles at him and hands the sword back, but leaves a hand on it. As he stared the kami began to pour herself into the blade. It began to glow as her spirit filled the blade.

Describe the blade, and choose what power it wields

A.A boon to intelligence. As water rushes and flows, so does the wielder’s mind when using this blade. They are able to think faster than any mortal using this blade. Adds +4 to intelligence.

B.The River.The wielder is able to channel the swiftness and fury of a river. X2 multiplier in combat.

C. As water can bring peace and calm, so can the wielder of this blade. When the wielder chooses, angry emotions are dampened and positive ones are amplified.

D.Another idea?

The weapon seemed to glow faintly, as the divine metal seemed to glimmer even if viewed on the darkest of nights - though the weapon itself shed no light. The blade itself had a rippling texture to it, the dark red of the back portion blending and intermingling with the bright orange of the edge; it was as if Masamune had plucked flame itself out of the forge and shaped it into the finest of arms. Indeed, when grasped by the maker or one worthy, they felt a calming, comfortable warmth upon the handle that seemed to clear the mind of trouble. When the blade flew, descriptions argued over whether the pattern on the blade seemed to ripple and lash like flames, or swirl like water - though, of course, it was unmoving as any other blade when it was still.

The guard of the blade was a simple disc of the metal, a deep blue almost seeming to be black and flared at the outer portions of it. The handle, too, bore little embellishment, a full tang with a fitted block of wood wrapped in red and black cloth. The only embellishment on the entire weapon was Masamune's own mark at the base of the blade, a simple signature and a recording of the place in which it was forged - and a name. "意思," Purpose.

The weapon was forged in war, and sought to bring peace, both to the wielder and those around them.

Masamune held his sword, “Purpose”, in his hands before him. He had poured a year’s worth of energy, strength, focus into this blade. Now, he needed someone to wield it. The kami had said none of the current rulers were worthy, but that doesn't mean one of their sons weren’t. Masamune would hold “Purpose” in the meantime, though as per the agreement with the kami, he wouldn’t be able to use it until after it had been passed to the future emperor.

Now he had to decide what to do.

A.Return to Tonga’s son. Though half the man his father was, he would be able to hold on to many of his father’s vassals if Masamune the famous smith were to return to his employ. Though even with that, it is predicted that he will be destroyed, or at least reduced greatly in strength. But this would be considered the most honorable option.

B. Go to the Warlord Okara, he is offering 30 gold for your services, along with the finest forges in his castle. He is considered currently one of the strongest warlords, with the strongest armies. However, this may be considered dishonorable by some.

C.Search for a potential emperor. Small chance at first, but increases with every year you spend searching.

D. Something else? You can of course send others to search in your stead while you do something else, though they will not be as able as you.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Turn Summary:
Location: Egypt
1 year going to New Zealand (Polynesia area)
1 year training with familiar, to gain the evocation skill
1 year training with magic, to develop a spell forged weapon: short sword
2 years doing deeds/work for the people to gain some money and influence
1 year developing a weapon skill, short sword
1 year developing a fighting skill, two weapon fighting/casting
2 years for additional deeds/work for the people to gain more money and influence
1 year establishing a place to stay in

Fluff:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Desired initial outcome:

Skills: evocation, short sword mastery, two weapon/casting mastery

Spells: Spell forge: short sword

Buildings: Personal foothold

Earnings based on fighting/weapon skill: 156 ( 52 + 52 + (52 x 2) + (52 x 3) )

fighting/weapon skill +3
magic +2

No implicit gathering a following efforts but just being on more friendly terms with the locals

Note: I made the fluff and information here based on what I think I should be able to do, if anyone thinks this conflicts with any other established fluff

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

then please correct me.

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

As his sons took on a greater role in running things Miles was able to expand the family business to start building their own ships.
1x Invest in a business 80G + 65G
14.5G x 10 years = 145G
1x Train skill: Shipwright

Miles continued to build his family, finding a spouses for both Rose and Steven. But Violet was different. He could feel the same power he bore flowing through here veins. Instead of preparing her for a settled life slowly building the family's power, he trained her for the long war teaching her to use the gifts Sind had given her.
3xFocus on family
-6 gold for a dowry
Violet receives basic training in magic

The death of Acter was a disturbing wake up call. Few of the sindari could stand against such a warrior. Their only chance was to flee and even that would be difficult. So Miles set about creating a spell and enchanting soul gems with it.
When cast the spell would turn the user into a wind that would rush out of the area.
He sent one of these gems and one raw gem to each of his fellow sindari.
1x Train magic: Weather
2xTrain magic: Transformation
1x Collect soul gems
1x Enchant soul gems
+10 Wind escape gems

Summery:
Each Player receives: 1 Wind escape gem and 1 raw soul gem.
Amelia receives the Hurricane gem

Attributes: +1 for time
Strength:2 Agility:2 Intelligence:10 + 2 Willpower:4 Perception: 4 Presence:2
Wealth/Assets: Gold 140 gold
Shipping business(145 gold)
5 Soul gems
Influence:16 +6.5
Worshipers/Power:52 worshipers
10 skill 3 Sailors
3 Skill 3 Fighters
39 skill 0 Followers
Family:Wife Olivia
Daughter Lily aged 31: 4/6 Sindari More Sindari traits than human. Lives 100 to 200 years longer than average. Strong recuperative abilities. Very strong, fast, and intelligent.
5 gold political fund
Husband Julius: son of a roman senator
Son Mark aged 28: 4/6 Sindari
Wife, 2 sons and a daughter
Daughter Rose aged 25: 3/6 Sindari Lives 50 to a 100 years longer, faster and stronger than normal.
New Husband
Son Steven aged 22: 1/6 Sindari: Completely human.
New Wife
Daughter Violet aged 19: 6/6 Sindari Ability: Soul Cast
Skills:
Sailing 6
Trade 4
Shipwright 2
Magic:
Weather control 12
Lightning 4
Transformations 4

Edit: Changed to account for having an eleventh player.

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

Masamune resolved, from that day forward, to find the true emperor. He composed messages of thanks to both Tonga's son and Okara, the former for his family's support and the latter for his kind offer, but explained to both that he had been given a divine mission.

And so Masamune set off on his travels, beginning to ceaselessly wander the land in search of the true emperor. When he found the time to, however, he practiced his warding and dampening enchantments, as well as ensuring that he was never away from the home he found in a mountain village for his wife and children for too long. During his travels, he tested the swordsmanship of many a samurai he found along the way in friendly duels, soon becoming quite accomplished in the art himself.

Spend four actions increasing Dampening Magic
Spend one action focusing on family. Have one child, Kyou, female.
Spend five actions searching for the true Emperor and training swordsmanship along the way.

Expected results:
-+8 Dampening skill, total of 10
-Gain one daughter, Kyou, 3
-+5 Swordsmanship, total of 6
-130 gold in profits from smithing guild
-Find the Emperor: Noriko Fuuri, a young onna-bugeisha (female samurai) looking to make her mark on the world.

Spoiler: To See The Future (click to show/hide)

Spend time using Past Sight to review the area I'm in, and see who has been there.

Spend two years formulating a Spell of Longsight, capable of "looking" down from the sky, at things far away from where I am.

Spend a year to find the source of the prominent magic of the South.

Spend two years studying clothes-making.

Using a year, make a very fine set of robes.

Then, enchant them for protection as best I can, as a foray into such enchantment. One year.

Spend two years making contact with nearby peoples, making allies and converts to Sind wherever possible.

Intended results:
Information on the local area, and the limits of my magical ability.
10 points of Influence
A decently powerful new spell
Four points in weaving or whatever
A new set of protected robes
Information on what's going on in the South

SEAFOOD

The sea breeze was always a comfort to Wavebringer, having a taste of salt and brine that reminded him of freedom. The fat cow of the ship he sailed, however, did not.

His transport ship made its way calmly through the water, part of a larger fleet. Ammon had forged a few papers, and a few bribes to the right people had gotten Wavebringer into this transport convoy.

Rome was in a bad shape. A year of low harvests had left Rome and the rest of Italy desperate for more outside grain, and they demanded Atlantis respond. The Empire finally did, but due to a pirate attack and then a case of corruption, this convoy of grain was needed to keep Rome from sliding into open unrest. Which was why Ammon asked him to be on this boat.

Wavebringer looked around again. No mages, but there were several warships on the lookout for pirates. But he doubted that they would be much trouble.

Now, what should he do?

A. A little too risky, lets just complete the task and earn a tidy profit. (10 gold, 10 influence)

B. Take out the fleet with a spell (How?) Take your ship down with it (luckily you can swim!).

C. Take out the fleet, but spare your own ship. The people would see you as a hero, though some may be suspicious. (25 gold, 25 profit).

D. Something else?

There was nothing left to do but wait. Throughout the journey so far Miles had slowly moved his ship from place to place within the convoy, using his magic to make the grain ever so slightly damp. By the time they reached port the mold and rot should be becoming noticeable. Add in a few well placed rumors that the empire knowing sent bad grain and rebellion was a near certainty.

Of course his inability to hold station wouldn't help his reputation. But it was a small price to pay and besides he was being no worse then the undisciplined rabble that made up the typical convoy.

Wavebringer kept scanning the sea hoping for pirates. He could do with a bit of excitement.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

*1 year spent traveling from Egypt to Corinth, Greece.

-After Sind talked to him, Archaementes felt forever changed, no longer human but something... greater. An onrush of knowledge and a divine imperative filling his head, he knew what to do. These Atlanteans and their Cisharni overlords must be brought down by any means necessary. However, going on a rampage would draw unwanted attention so a more subtle approach would be more effective. Athens, Greece seemed to be a great place to start. As the philosophical capital of Greece, Athens is fulled of people who would appreciate the novel but strangely meaningful rhetoric of an enlighten newcomer. Many philosophers and senators would flock to heed his advice... and that would complicate things. In a large city like Athens, news will travel fast and a Cisharni will visit the city to hear about this 'enlightened fellow'. Another city he could visit was Sparta. A highly militaristic society, Sparta could provide the muscle needed to fight the Atlanteans should the time comes and are very brave. They are also very sneaky as their men learned from a young age by ambushing and killing hapless helots without being seen, a skill that has a cruel origin yet can still be used against the not so innocent Atlanteans. However, though the Spartans valued philosophy despite the claims of their rivals in Athens, they valued strength more and Archaementes clearly wasn't a good fit. Finally, he decided to start in Corinth. Sure it wasn't as populous or well known as Athens but it can serve him well.

*2 years spent learning Teaching.
*2 years being paid to Teach.
*2 years spent practicing Persuasion(x4 due to Prodigy).

-Arriving in Corinth a year later, Archaementes found his way to the local academy where he met the headmaster. Despite being unwilling to admit foreigners into his academy, the headmaster became impressed when Archaementes displayed his knowledge on various subjects, including but not limited to philosophy and poetry. When the headmaster offered him any education he wanted plus room and board, Archaementes chose to learn how to teach others. After all, what better way to train agents than to do it yourself? After completing his education, he taught at the academy for two more years.

Archaementes had always knew that he has a knack for persuading others into seeing his perspective on things, to accept whatever opinion he held. He'd convinced some children to obey their parents and others to defy their elders. He'd convinced people to see even their best friends as enemies and entire families to make amends. Using his understanding of people's inner desires and insecurities and when and how he should take advantage of them, he'd learned whose emotions he should appeal to, whose logic he should shatter with a question that cuts deeply, and whose character he should challenge. In fact, at times all he had to do was to write his argument on a parchment and anyone who read it would've agreed with him. As the years gone by, Archaementes' skill at wrapping people around his fingers became so easy, so second nature, that he felt as if he can not only persuade a Cisharni to commit suicide but feel that it was the right thing to do. However, even he knew that his skill would be useless if the enemy doesn't feel like listening.

*1 year spent gathering devoted followers.

-Archaementes have met many people during his time in Corinth. From the lowest citizen to nobles who held an interest in intellectual pursuits, Archaementes enlightened them in ways they didn't expect through rhetoric that seemed as if a god had touched his lips, which wouldn't be far from the truth. He spoke of a state of mind where a human can gain more understanding than possible. He also made a few offhanded comments about the Atlanteans and their quest to quench this state, which drew a few discontented grumbles. It was during this time when he found out that the city-states of Greece craved their freedom from the Atlantean Empire. However they were afraid of possible retaliation from Rome, one of her lapdogs. By the end of the year a handful of people, mostly students and teachers but also a few craftsmen, have devoted themselves to his teachings. They saw him as the embodiment of higher understanding. However, as fortune would have it, the rest of them belonged to the city's upper crust, an advantage that Archaementes never failed to exploit. Sending those followers off to persuade the rest of the nobles to hear him out, Archaementes hatched a brilliant plan. His plan is to form a secret society in Greece that will destroy the Atlantean Empire from within and he needed all the resources and connections he can get. Such a society can infiltrate the lands, plant the seeds of rebellion into the hearts of civilian and nation alike, assassinate problematic people, etc. Like puppets dancing to the string pulling of the puppeteer, kings can be made to pass any agenda he chooses, whether they are willing or not, while he get to remain inconspicuous right under the Cisharni's noses. Perhaps the nobility of Corinth is a great place to start. Perhaps he can obtain some Influence as well as a small donation? Maybe he can also receive news about Greece political climate too?

*2 years spent formulating the Force Shield Skill.

-Upon hearing of Acter's death via the telepathic link he shared with the other Sindari, Archaementes decided that unless he start finding ways to defend himself, he too will die an ignoble death. Spending weeks focusing on the space surrounding a straw dummy he received from one of his followers, Archaementes experimented with various ways to manipulating it into forming a protective envelope around the object. After he spent months learning to stabilize it, Archaementes attacked it with sticks and thrown objects and made a mental note of the results. This continued for two years before he became satisfied with the results.

Expected results
*1 year travel= Egypt to Corinth, Greece.
*2 years(Teaching x 2)= Proficient Teaching.
*2 years(Proficient Teaching(4)x52 weeks)= 416 silver= 41 gold and 6 silver.
*2 years(Persuasion x Prodigy(4))= Accomplished Persuasion.
*1 year(10 x 3 Presence) = 30 Follower Points.
Devoted Followers
   8 Skill 1 Scholarship Followers (Students)
   3 Skill 3 Teaching Followers (Teachers)
   1 Skill 2 Crafting (Wood) Follower (Wood Crafter)
   2 Skill 1 Woodworking Followers (Carpenters)
   2 Skill 3 Doctor Followers (Nobles)
   3 Skill 1 Fighting Followers (Nobles)
Total number of followers = 19
Possible influence and gold gain and possible news of Greece's political landscape.
+2 Attribute Points gained due to # of followers.
2 years(Force Shield x 2) = Proficient Force Shield.

Attributes: Strength:2 Agility:3 Intelligence:6 Willpower:4 Perception: 4 Presence:3

SEAFOOD
   For a master of the sea like Wavebringer, their was little challenge in gradually moving his ship through the convoy, getting close to each ship and working the magic that would gradually ruin each ship’s supply of food. The hardest part of the whole exercise was the maddeningly slow pace of it all. Wavebringer glanced longingly at the warships guarding the convoy. Someday.

   The port was clogged with ships. Only a day or so ride from Rome, merchant ships came here to unload their goods, and so the convoy made way. Carthaginian and Greek ships scurried out of the way of the convoy, led by a proud Atlantean warship. Following shouted directions, Wavebringer brought his ship into dock.

   Already a great crowd had gathered. Wavebringer spotted a few tribunes and a couple senators, and the Gracca brothers.

   Born commoners, through their ambition and oratory they had picked up, they had become important figures for the plebes of the city. One of them, Brochos, was running for tribune, and was favored to win. Nonetheless, their words carried weight in the city of Rome, and wise senators kept their eyes on them. Wavebringer suspected that Ammon may be involved with them, but he had many fingers in many pies and it was starting to get hard to keep track.

The crowds cheered as the first sacks of grain were offloaded the ship. One of the tribunes, with an Atlantean captain at his side, took an upraised platform and began to extol the virtues of Atlantis, and how they have provided for the people of Rome in their time of need.

“We have asked, and Atlantis has responded to her favorite son!” The tribune declared, “Our time of famine is over with this shipment of grain! No longer will your mothers and daughters go hungry to bed! Look upon the favor of Atlantis!!”
To the cheers of the crowd, the tribune had a soldier bring up a sack of grain, and dumped it in front of the platform. A grey lump of rotting grain fell out of the bag, splattering on the ground, and coating the first few ranks in filth. The crowd silenced, shocked.

The tribune blanched, and looked around desperately. “Uhh, must have been a bad bag. Grab us another!” The soldiers and workers began checking the bags, and the cries of dismay heard confirmed their worst fears. The crowd began to demand an explanation, but the tribune was speechless.

“Look upon the measure of Atlantis’s esteem for you!” Cried out one of the Gracca brothers. “We have starved and plead with them for months, and they have finally responded with moldy, worthless grain! They care not for us Romans, even as they send us to die in their wars half the world over!”

With his words the crowd was further inflamed. The soldiers quickly hustled the tribunes and senators out, while the
Atlanteans returned to their ships, brandishing their weapons to keep the crowd back. Merchant ships began to scramble to get out of the dock. Wavebringer saw too, that the crowd was beginning to come to his ship.

What do you do?
A. Get out of there!
B. Stay and try to calm the crowd!

   SHADOW AND FLAME
   Ammon had, of course, anticipated the events that would take place in Rome. News of the corrupted grain spread like wildfire, and the city was in chaos. This was a moment Ammon was waiting for. He sent his agents to Rome with a few orders. . .
Ammon has 30 Influence points to spend, what do you do? You can pick multiple of one option. (You should have more than 10, consider these shadow influence or something.)

   A.Corrupt positions of power. Use the chaos of the time, and perhaps good old fashioned leverage to put your own men in power. Grants either 5 influence or 20 gold per turn. Costs 5 influence.

   B. Steal artifact. Roman senators and generals sometimes receive magical gifts from their Cisharni overlords. Send an agent to steal one. Costs 25 influence.

   C. Subvert an army. Misdirect an army somewhere, send confusing orders, and perhaps make them fight against each other if you are lucky. Costs 20 influence.

   D. Kidnapping. Take someone important, demand a ransom for their release. Can reward any where from 25-100 gold. Dangerous, however. Costs 15 influence.

   E. Cover Wavebringer's tracks. Destroy and replace documents mentioning his involvement in the affair. Costs 5 influence.

Ammon had sent his agents to Rome with an array of orders and forged documents. First and foremost he had arranged to protect Wavebringer from any fallout from this incident. (5 Inf Spent on [E]) It was important to protect those willing to help you. It would be easier to convince people to side with you if they knew you would in some way stand with them against the consequences. Secondly he had people infiltrate important positions in the confusion. Unnoticed they climbed the ranks and helped each other reach ever more influential positions of power. (5 Inf Spent on [A])

Finally he sent orders to Atlantean military forces to suppress the unrest in Rome. They were to make examples of some 'dissidents' by way of public execution. The ever helpful Ammon sent a list of known dissidents along with those orders. Of course the list didn't detail actual dissidents but it was full of people whose removal would allow his operatives to advance further up the hierarchy and gain more control and it also had a great many people who were vocally supportive of Atlantis. If this worked the army would march in with the goal of restoring order but in the process wipe out the voices from the population that supported them. The funny thing about ideologies and political beliefs is that they tend to cluster. People pass on ideas to their children, they tend to adopt ideas similar to the people around them who they like and respect. By having friends and family members plucked from these clusters of loyalists and killed publicly it will poison the whole lot against Atlantis. Nothing is quite as zealous as a fresh convert. Some people have been grumbling and agitating about the empire for years but they likely would never be as desperate to harm and destroy Atlantis as the people who gave it their loyalty only for that loyalty to be betrayed. (20 inf Spent on C)

Ammon sat on the docks in his city of residence. He watched the ships load and unload as he considered his plans. He smiled to himself a vicious and predatory smile. It was time to get this ball rolling.

Miles grabbed a shroud and quickly swung himself up onto the gunwale, shouting out to the crowd. "My friends please stop! A riot will do nothing but bring the Atlantean boot down upon us. We must stand together in this time of abandonment! Share what food we have, take no more than you need, while our merchants seek out reliable sources of grain.
If we stand together Rome can weather this storm!"

Send a message to Lily to use her wealth to provide food for the poor and to avoid having even the slightest hint of excess in her household.

Quickly return to my home port and put my company's full force behind shipping food to Rome and it's surroundings. Sell at a lower than normal profit.

(The last two actions assume I'm not having to deal with a mob storming my ship.
Let me know how much they cost if they go through.)

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 4th turn. 40 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

It was a strange feeling, feeling another one of a person "die". Amelia was traveling at the time of Acter's death and the feedback was personally hard. If it were not for other travelers around her, especially those who had grown accustomed to traveling with her in the previous decade, she would have been affected for longer than a year. However given the ancient heritage and culture of the lands, she was gladly supported in her prolonged sadness and reluctance to speak--those who knew her gave their personal support, and despite her secret of immortality, Amelia believed that she would always be grateful of the humility of her homeland. It would only be after months of healing and learning that she would return with vigor to her purpose and cause: to prepare the sentient races for the future with or without the immortals, and to benefit the society and life of those around her. Therein, she realized she had stumbled upon an opportunity that she hadn't seen before, if she had continued in pursuit of philosophy alone: Realizing the potential of those around her, and the potential of their culture. The people of these lands dwelt with the spirit of community--difficult to translate into the most common language she knew, but focused on 'otherness', pertaining to the unity of people and interaction in keeping these bonds alive. They had a peace-oriented perception, alongside one of togetherness, of feeling other people as similar as themselves on many levels, despite the different ways they act and relate. In but a decade until now, Amelia had been traveling throughout the lands in learning this art of speaking, of understanding, and of relating with those who may most likely be gone in the next century. In a way, she was grateful for the opportunity in spite of the trials she faced through proxy.

Through telepathy and recollection with those others like her, she mused on the notion of 'imbuing' another of these 'mortal' people the power of the Sindari--those who had the personality, attitude, and unique personhood (even if it did not align with her personality, at least in that of dignity and resilience) would be chosen to receive such. With this great power would come the great responsibility akin to what the Sindari already bore, if not the enmity to the Cisharni, the responsibility to act and aid the others around them. She had to choose one, as a start, and through the weeks of travel--one person stood out. A young women similar to herself (as Amelia did not show the distinct signs of aging in the 25 or so years she spent in the lands, although she was uncertain that she had not met anyone that could particularly familiarize themselves with her other than her "middle age"), who had a bold spirit, a witty perception, a welcoming personality, and a calm heart. She had the spirit of a warrior, even if she was raised within the social atmosphere of one who tended to others and the land, and Amelia could see her potential as a scholar and avid learner, if not a future leader and elder, as she was also well versed in the oral traditions and legal matters of the lands.

Upon looking back from this insight, she had refreshed her initial obsevation of seeing the aptitude of using magic present in the many tribes she traveled to in her journies--not only within their elders and leaders, given the local culture being one with the spirits of nature and the environment, but also in the youth. This was rare, on a major scale, but significant and in hindsight, valuable, given the community culture present.

In discovering that her plans to travel to Japan and aid another smith in planning against detection from the Cisharni were postponed, Amelia had to resort to training herself and protection of those who chose to follow her or her ideals in the meantime. Therein, she could not focus on pure skills and training within the years to come, but blended those with the experiences that came with them. In the least, she was sure that with the person she chose to raise like Sind had done to herself, she would be very apt in organizing the social stability of the followers she had, alongside the matters of local law, culture, and social adaptation that would follow. Through the years after her mourning of Acter's death, she began to integrate on the spur of insight, both the martial arts and battle forms she had learned from her travels, and her innate attunement to magic to harness its potential with what she had always felt (but not overtly noticed) as the energy of the 'mind', as best as she could describe it. The feelings and emotions which flowed and weaved through the forms of combat and movement, which felt invariably different from emotions of anger, happiness, and other social ones, had some kind of niche she noticed in this merging of practices. She noted that it had potential even with using weaponry, but was best used without, and could even be hindered by keeping the hands occupied--although she did not discard the possibility of it being bolstered by the aid of channeling through tools and devices akin to handheld objects.

In a way, she was also having an idea that this person liked her, in a way. She was not sure, being particularly inept in the communication of love, orienting herself in the love of ideas and knowledge instead. Either way, she was optimistic of what would occur, and planned to train and hone her skills and understanding with what she would reveal.

Other matters to take in mind over the years was the focus on her planned home for the Sindari, and eventually, their home of operations and aid. This would particularly govern the expanse of the hollow caverns, including designing and strengthening the foundations of the under-earth (as it was also suitable for defensive purposes, not including the natural layer of protection in between), which gave Amelia the idea of magic-reactive metals which would either hinder or bolster those using them. If she could fashion them into armor or otherwise, this was a possibility to be used very well. If not, it would act as a natural defense anyway, but also something that could be guided to adapt its potential for more various means and uses. As a total aside, with the potential for a flourishing ecosystem underground, Amelia wondered if there were even fauna or unique flora around. She would begin expeditions of such in the coming years, alongside planning and reinforcing the area for modifications. Through insight, she noticed that the famous terraces used for agriculture over land could be transported in idea underground, too, with freshwater already being filtered by the earth overland, and from the sea miles away, but this would take a feat of engineering better done in the next decade.

The next ten years were intermingled, with 'one year' being interspersed in between many activities.
> One year to 'imbue' one of these followers akin to a Sindari.
> One year cataloguing and identifying the different ores and minerals in my area for archiving/future use (with a subtler motive in detecting "magic sensitive metals" and their common locations/methods of safe handling, and extraction) [Mining]
> Spend my 10 gold on creating an agricultural zone above the underground base, and starting a business--agricultural caravans! Terraces all over! (This is included in the "Engineering action" below)
> Two years spent on Teaching (2x), focused as a skill.
> One year spent on Teaching (1x), focusing on teaching my Sindari follower the needed skills of governing and organization, with focus into either engineering, or persuasion, or on all those if possible (with a future plan of the gift of insight for other people). Including Bending--if no time, Ive edited the above to give that time.
> Two years performing Administration (1x), setting local laws and relating them to the local laws already presented (as to match history here--our place has a very broad and extensive store of the legal laws. They are mostly oral in nature, and it will take time to assimilate and accommodate), alongside focusing on minor industries and other aids to educate and better the lives of the population underground.
> One year learning, performing, and honing the art of 'Bending'--unarmed martial art combining the concept of natural sentient energy, discipline, and the physical arts (acting as Amelia's combat art, reliant mostly on Int.
> One year teaching Bending (using the skill itself instead of Teaching?) to new Sindari, giving her freedom to teach others using her discernment on picking apprentices.
> One year preparing the whole underground complex and cavern for being able to be modified in the future, depending mostly on engineering and other related skills, but also open for enchantments. This includes the aboveground framework as an agricultural/preserved forest zone, to aid against weather erosion. (Engineering)

Expectations:
> Mining to +1 [10]
> Teaching to +5 [5]
> Bending to +4 [4]
> Underground base being readily able to accommodate future modifications: wider-scale modifications and even enchantments being possible. Aboveground area transformed into a preserved agricultural area. Also +1 to Engineering [15]
> Administration to +2 [8]
> Spend 10 gold on starting a business, purely aboveground, purely agricultural in nature. (Potentials being: herbs for doctoring, food production, and exportation of extra for either influence, followers, or money--but primarily a venture for the betterment of people rather than economy) {If I can also train them with less than a year's worth of persuasion and communication training, I'd love that too!}
* I've been putting my decade stat points into Intelligence, with only one into Willpower, on the note of 'unmentioned editing'. :P

SEAFOOD
   Wavebringer tried to calm the crowd, he really did. Maybe they couldn’t hear him over the roar of the crowd, or perhaps they didn’t care. They overwhelmed the sailors who were trying to stop their entry and began to beat them. A large group of them stormed the ship, breaking open containers and fighting with the ship's crew. A few angry civilians rush towards Wavebringer, fists raised.

   What do you do?

SHADOW AND FLAME
   Positions of Power: (6) Ammon’s middleman selected the agents very well. These Roman citizens were devoted to seeing Rome fall, and if they need a shadowy patron to do that, they were more than willing to oblige. Various tribune openings were taking, and a few senators found very helpful new advisors when their old ones mysteriously disappeared. 10 influence per turn.

Covering the tracks: (1) Your agents, unfortunately, were killed in their attempt to cover the paper trail. This has renewed interest in determining what happened, and why someone would want to alter the details of the convoy formation.

Subvert an army: (6) An Atlantean peacekeeping group was dispatched from Sardinia to restore order to the capital. A few replaced messengers and orders ensured that their actions were quick and brutal. The force stormed the city of rome, rounding up instigators and loyalists alike, and killing them all. This only served to inflame the populace and the nobles against Atlantis even further, turning angry discontent into outright rebellion. Several Roman legions in Italy, under the command of angry generals, marched toward Rome. The peacekeeping force, heavily outnumbered, was forced to withdraw north, where it awaited for loyalist forces.

What do you do?

A. You have done enough, the embers have grown into a raging fire. Best not to get burned.

B. Don’t quit when you’re ahead. Cause some more trouble (Remember you are out of influence this turn. Actions you take will have to be direct.

As Miles' bodyguards stepped in front of the rioters, he quickly assessed the situation.
It was important to cut off the rest of the mob before they overwhelmed the crew. He shouted an order, "Cast off! Get us clear of the dock."
But they could use an advantage. The clouds had been threatening rain all day so with a muttered curse Miles called it down to dampen the mobs spirit.
The first few drops would quickly become a downpour, giving the upper hand to his men, the veterans of many a storm.
With the magic done he drew his sword and turned to the fight.

B)B. Don’t quit when you’re ahead. Cause some more trouble (Remember you are out of influence this turn. Actions you take will have to be direct.
Rome was powerful and it's legions could give Atlantis some considerable trouble. But the resources they could bring to snuff out the fire Ammon had started were still too great. He needed to divide their attention. Of course the next phase of his plan needed his magic anyway, even if he had had some agents to spare he'd probably need to do the next bits himself. He redirected his attention to Egypt.

He planned sneak his way into the largest local garrison in his area of Egypt using a combination of stealth and acrobatics to case the place listening to conversations and ultimately checking if there are any Cisharni around. Once that was done he would return the next day cloaked in an illusion disguising him as a messenger with forged orders and reports of a growing rebel force lurking out in the desert. Using a combination of mind magic to implant suggestions, illusion to deceive their senses, deception and forged documents to convince the garrison's officers and generals to gather their forces and crush the rebellion in the desert before it becomes a problem. And also convince them that they need to keep it secret lest more people learn of a powerful rebellion brewing and race to join.

He would give them a week or two after leaving before passing reports to the other military commanders in the region of a formerly loyal group going rogue for unknown reasons and disappearing into the desert. What they do with this information Ammon will leave up to them but he will use this event to sow rumors that there is disloyalty infesting the ranks and that the officers are planning to purge a wide swathe of troops in order to prevent further problems. He will use stealth, trickery and illusions to insert these rumors into the Atlantean military, letting people overhear conversations that aren't happening. Letting soldiers 'overhear' the officers talk about how important loyalty is and how they have to do something drastic to ensure no more forces go rogue when the conversation itself is just an illusion.

After letting those rumors fester a little he would pick out a number of vulnerable officers and soldiers and use mind magic to 'suggest' to them that the rumors are true and that something must be done. He will trick them into thinking their impetus to act is their own decision.

Then he would prepare some fabricated evidence in the form of an incriminating letter and other documents that implicated a top very trusted general in causing the unrest in Rome and any troubles that will result in Egypt in order to draw forces away from Atlantis so he could preform a coup and alludes to him having found a way to steal some form of power from the Cisharni if he were to gain control of Atlantis. Once the whole ordeal was underway he would sneak into the office of one of the officers and slip the incriminating note into some neglected paperwork before leaving. With luck the inevitable investigation into what the hell is going on would stumble across it. Lying about ways of stealing Cisharni power may seem like a strange choice to some but Ammon had his reasons. The power gap between the Cisharni and ordinary people was too great for betrayal to be something the Cisharni worried much about. Few ordinary people close to the Cisharni would likely dare to try anything. The Cisharni could trust them. Ammon had decided to poison that trust and make it so the Cisharni could no longer know if their subjects were loyal and obedient or envious and greedy. It was an essential part of turning the Cisharni against their own subjects and in turn their subjects against them.

And with all that done finally he will back off to see what happens.

SEAFOOD

   Mile’s bodyguards crashed into the charging men. The brawl gave Miles enough time to set the rain pouring from the sky. The cries of dismay grew louder, and the crowd noticeably grew smaller as people rushed inside. It also gave the crew on Mile’s ship the upper hand to push back some of the rioters. A few continued the brawl, while others began to push the ship away from the dock.

   Miles finished calling down the rain, and drew his sword and brandished it in the face of one of the rioters. Maybe it was the rain, the ship beginning to leave, or the sword inches away from his face, but the man raised his hands and backed away, and then and turned and ran off the ship. The rest of the rioters, bruised and battered, quickly beat a retreat off the ship. Mile’s sailors raised a cheer, and the ship was on its way.

   The rain lashed Mile’s face as he stared out over the port. The rest of the convoy sat in the middle of the bay, frozen in indecision. Miles was not. He ordered the ship down the coast, and trusted one of his bodyguards with the message to be frugal and share food with the poor and wanting, and that he would soon be back with more.
   Back at his home port a few days later, Miles began to buy up all the food stocks that he could and loaded it into the transport. On his return journey, loaded with unspoiled grain this time, Miles wasn’t looking to make much of a profit, but to help the desperate of the city. Though there were sightings of warships on the horizon, Miles was able to coax the ship on and make it to the port of Rome, where his goods this time were received with open arms and joy. His daughter heeded his advice of coarse, and sheltered many a hungry soul in the city. Her two sons and her daughter helped the servants care for those who came to her door. However, she was beginning to become frightened of the events that were taking place. She looked to you for guidance on what she should do further.

SHADOW AND FLAME

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

   With the greatest of ease, Ammon snuck into the local garrison. A base for the force that patrolled the waterways around Dashun, it was made up of some professional warriors, with the rest levies raised from Dashun and communities around it. No Cisharni or other irregularities here, and so the garrison seemed ripe for his plan.

   Coming back the following morning as a royal messenger, Ammon told the garrison commander, a brash young man who seemed eager to prove himself, that the Pharaoh received reports of bandits and rebels in the desert by Dashun, and that he wished them to be eliminated immediately. Though the garrison commander had not heard such reports himself, he would not argue against the royal command. Soon the garrison, nearly a thousand men, were marched out.

   Over the next week, Ammon went to the fort at the nearby junction of the Nile, where a large army was kept. Its numbers grew daily as concerns over the Rome situation increased. Ammon worked insidious magic, sowing doubt and false conversations in officer’s minds. Only the top general and several priests seemed resistant to his mind altering magic.

   One commander, one immediately subordinate to the general, became fully convinced of a rogue force in the desert that happened to be where Ammon had sent the garrison to look for rebels. He came to the general, who was not quite convinced, but allowed him to take a detachment to secure the area
The detachment marched out from the fort was thousands strong, and upon confronting the “rogue force”, asked them to surrender. Confronted by many times their own number, the garrison surrendered, and the brash commander of said garrison, along with several of his leading officers, lost their heads.

   Ammon then planted evidence that one of the Atlantean generals was planning on betraying the Cisharni and taking over Atlantis for himself. The plant itself went flawlessly, Ammon went in and out like a shadow of the office of an ambitious officer in the Atlantean army based in Arkanus. The paperwork implicated the General of Egypt of causing the disturbances in Rome and that of Egypt. Ammon heard reports that the General and his staff were taken in by Pharaonic guards, and his best efforts revealed that the General was mind examined by the Pharaoh himself to determine the truth of the matter. The General and most of his staff were later released, and priest began to interview those involved in the incidences involving the garrison.

Result: Increased scrutiny and management placed upon Egyptian army.

ROME
   The Atlantean peacekeeping force withdrew to a small town north of the city of Rome. There it bunkered down, awaiting loyalist forces, and reinforcements from Greece. The 8th Legion, lead by Fabius Publionus, besieged the town. The Atlanteans, only a thousand so strong, were heavily outnumbered, but had a small contigent of gemlock rifles, which provided an edge in firepower. Publionus awaited reinforcements from other rebel legions, and then commenced the assault.
   Events transpired against the Atlanteans. A heavy rain made the rifles ineffective, and the inhabitants of the town turned against them. Their defenses were stormed after a heavy 3 days of fighting, and the sheer number and the rage of the roman legion overwhelmed the skill of the Peacekeeping force. The captain of the peacekeeping force was paraded in chains through Rome, before being sent to be devoured by 27 lions in the arena, each paid for by a noble family who lost a family member to his purge. The strong arms and armor of the peacekeepers was distributed to various generals, and the gemlock rifles were highly prized by the nobles.
   It was one of the worst defeats of an Atlantean force in recent memory. Rome celebrated her victory, even as many went to bed hungry. However, soon there were reports of a Greek force landing on Italy’s eastern shores, and many wondered what Rome’s response would be.

OPPORTUNITY?
Does you character do anything to take advantage of Rome’s recent victory?

...this looks like a good place for a trade. ;)
Do some teleport trading in Rome, bringing food and military goods in for low prices, to reach inland areas that Wavebringer can't take food to. Only make small profits, and one trip a week. In addition, use my teleports to bring key people out of Rome to safe locations, such as Amelia's base in the Phillipines.

In addition, I can take anyone who wants to go to Rome with me, opening this Opportunity to all players.

Spoiler: Octavian Grey (click to show/hide)

CHAR SHEET:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Spend 1 year preparing my pocket dimension
Spend 2 years increasing the size of my pocket dimension and creating a house inside a hill (basically a hobbit hole)
Spend 5 years studying golemancy
Spend 2 years studying magic, learning to displace others' perception of me.

Expected results:

Pocket dimension: The key is a small pebble, It is situated in a deciduous forest in the northern island (Hokkaido) ,The entrance is in between two deciduous trees that form a natural arch. Inside the pocket dimension, the forest is almost identical, the size of the dimension is about 15X10X15, and there is a small hillock. Upon the hillock is a round wooden door, through which there is a cozy house, filled with stone and wooden limbs of all sorts.

Golemancy: Can create basic golems out of wood and stone. These golems are stronger than average humans, but do not posses intelligence, and obey my commands.

Displace (Level 4): Ehnadren can use magic to confuse enemies, causing them to percieve him one metre away from where he really is, beings powerful enough in magic can see through it.

Increase presence by 1
Increase golemancy to 10

Quote from: Narrator on August 25, 2017, 05:52:20 pm

OPPORTUNITY?
Does you character do anything to take advantage of Rome’s recent victory?

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 4th turn. 40 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

((Using my Turn 4 stats, as this happens in between the 40-50th year, the usual summary is in bolded portions for ease of action. The flavor is moreso flavor--unless you would like particular aspects also added :) ))

Somewhere within the 4th decade since the Sindari came into the world. . .

Amelia conversed telepathically with Octavian Grey--who beheld the soul of Acter within him--as she trained alongside her fellows, news of Ammon's work was shared between the rest of the Sindari. She decided to step in, having an opportunity herself what with her philosophy of openness and integration, following her domain of kindness (or at least that was the conceptual notion she had read and saw in practice when browsing what little she knew of the Cisharni). She called onto her fellow Sindari-in-training and delegated several orders for her in her absence for a few days or such. With that, she set off to meet Octavian at the designated teleportation point, far from scrying eyes and in the safety of her 'money cave', where she would soon spend her honest gold on a business designed to aid others. Now was the time for Rome.

Having been briefed by Octavian on Ammon's cover up and disruption efforts, she made sure to focus her skills in the same manner too. Putting herself in a more suitable attire, she met up with Octavian and teleported with him into Rome. Adopting the guise of a Roman sympathizer and noble scholar, she began to start her efforts from the roots--even before the news of a Greek force arrived.

Actions:
> Amelia teleports to Rome by the help of Octavian Grey. She uses her a skill mix of Enchanting/Persuasion, Administration, and Engineering (in order of priority and focus) during the span of time between now and the conclusive event to aid the people of Rome and to persuade those higher ups and important people to come with her in the meantime, to be teleported back.

Spoiler: Possible details (click to show/hide)

+ Her skills of enchanting can be used to waft off the magical trail so they would not be followed, and in minor aspects--to help out the defenders and soldiers, civilians and otherwise.
+ Her skills of Persuasion can be used to both root out any spies embedded in the Roman hierarchy (and then Bending if ever in combat), but moreso to signal and out them to the loyalist Roman people. This would also be used to convince important people and possible important loyalists to come with her to a safer area where their skills and academics can be used [I'm planning to make a local academy in my area in the future, so that's an aside :p], but moreso to the effect that the civilian populace at large would spread rumors of Atlantean misdeeds and generally be discontented with the 'peacekeeping' forces to act and lean moreso to our or any anti-Atlantean factions or actions in that theme. Stories or believable ideas would be planted to either divert suspicion or allay any suspected intent, towards either enemies of the Atlanteans, or local disruptions against them too.
-- If possible, also inquire to buy or receive a gemlock rifle for study. The armor and arms of the Atlanteans are of great importance in learning about them.

+ Administration can be used towards orienting, organizing, and preparing the Roman people towards both the invasion force--and IF Rome will fall to the Greek armies; what they can do as espionage or reconnaissance, how they can act if civilization falls, and what they can do to resist effectively and efficiently in the lack of organized society.
+ Engineering can be moreso for supervisory efforts, and to modify (not overtly) the skills of Roman soldiers, engineers, and architects in their defense. This would be more of a template form [thanks to Artificer skill], that can be easily disposed if done right. Otherwise, she could also have aided in constructing defenses, utilizing the power of manpower to ease and succeed quickly--adopting the local ideology of defenses, but adding in her skill in making it subtly efficient in its power.

Ammon accepted the offer to be teleported to Italy and made his way to the Greek landing force. Stealthy he snuck into their camp and summoned rats to infest their supplies. He left dead, drowned, diseased rats in their water barrels. He quickly copied down the notes, letters and plans of the enemy before having them delivered to the rebel Romans via a proxy.

Miles was honest with his daughter. Rome would be looking for strong leaders, so this was an opportunity for her husband to gain influence. But it was very likely that the Cisharni would retake Rome and he his family might be targets for reprisals. So if she wanted it could be arranged for Octavian to take them to a safe place.

He assisted Amelia with acquiring or at least examining a gemlock to learn its capabilities and basic operating principles

When Jerick had located the Greeks Miles used a soul gem to send bad weather to disrupt their activities and weaken their moral.(Do this from somewhere that can't easily be traced back to me)

TURN 5: AA 40-90

Fabius Publionus took his 8th Legion, swollen with inspired recruits and marched to face the Greek force. He knew that their orders were to advance slowly and devastate the countryside on their march. The Greeks had about 15,000 men, and the Romans had 25,000 under their banners.

The Greeks, however, had the Spartans.

   Those who have not seen them in battle may be forgiven in underestimating their capabilities. After all, there were only 500 of them, and a hundred of those were broken off into a special detachment. To where, the orders did not say. With a 10,000 man advantage, Publionus thought it best to defeat the enemy piecemeal before they could assemble all of Atlantis’s might.

   Knowledge of their opponents actions led Publionus to lay a trap for the advancing army. 15,000 men lay blocking the path of the Greek advance, with 10,000 waiting in the wooded and hilly flanks. The Greek General, Kostantos, fell for the trap. The Roman warriors rushed from the surrounding hills into the flanks of the invading force. The fighting was fierce, but the Greeks were the ones attacked from all sides, and they soon began to break.

   Except for the Spartans.

   Sons of the goddess Hera, they were above mortal men as the gods themselves were above them. Seemingly immortal, a Spartans fate was to die on the battlefield. From a young age they are trained in spear, sword, and shield, and they hone their supernatural abilities to a fine degree. Their only equals were the Atlantean Royal Guard, and extremely competitive rivalry existed between the two groups. All who faced them on the field of battle feared them.

   And that day the Romans learned why.

   The Sindari learned from reports by survivors that when the Spartans were charged, they would counter charge and then blink into melee, causing massive shock. Armed and armored by the finest smiths in Greece, they were hardly harmed by the resistance of the Romans. Blinking from one soldier to the next, they carved a terrifying path of destruction.

   And so the Romans center buckled, and then eventually broke. The flanks fought as hard as they could, but the Greeks were inspired by the line breaking, and so the flanks were forced to retreat.

   Close to 15,000 men on both sides had fallen or were injured in the fighting. Publionus was brought in chains before the Greek General, a gift for Atlantis to parade before execution.

Rome had not even time to grieve the news of the loss suffered by its army when a group of a 100 men approached the gates of the city. Despite the gates being sealed, the entryway to the city was somehow made clear, and the 100 Spartans and the Inquisitor entered the city.

The enhanced Spartans were given free reign, and they exercised that brutally, killing all in their way. They showed no mercy, and exulted in the blood they spilt. The guards who opposed them were quickly cut down, the same of any man who slowed their progress.

When they arrived at the Senate, the Inquisitor emerged from his guard, and made all the senators bow before him. He then commanded that all those who rebelled against Atlantis to stab themselves in the heart. Nearly all of them did. The Inquisitor seemed a bit surprised by this, until he was informed that many loyalists were being held in a state prison, who confessed their loyalties after being examined by a wise woman.

He then ordered all the noble families who rebelled to be exterminated, and gave an order that the city itself was to be decimated. The streets soon ran red with blood, though some fortunate few were able to escape the city and flee to the countryside.

And so Rome burned.

Character Stuff in Rome

Octavian Grey arranged for some 50 people to escape, notables include 5 of Amelia’s engineering friends, 3 grandchildren of Wavebringer, a centurion who had seen one battle too many, and an senator/scholar who wanted to write a book. His trading of food and weapons brought him a small profit.
+1 gold

Amelia helped prepare the city for the invasion force, though in the end the defenses were not equipped to handle the Inquisitor. The escape tunnels that she had placed, however, allowed many to escape into the countryside, where rebels continue to harass loyalist and Atlantean forces. The gemlock rifle that she examined was a work of art, clearly handcrafted with a precise eye and hand. It used a soul gem to power a projectile, flying at several hundred meters per second. Amelia’s skill with enchantment allowed her to realize that there is a tracking spell built into the device, one that transfers to whoever uses it. She decided to leave it for the time being, stashing it in a safehouse that Ammon had provided. In addition to all that, (Amelia was a busy lady) she worked with some engineers and architects to plan out some new buildings, an updated sewer system, and potential expansions to the aqueducts. Several of her new friends decided to take her up on the offer to escape the city. Her persuasion abilities also came into play when identifying potential loyalists, and sending them to be locked inside a prison so they couldn’t interfere.

The storm and infected water of the Greek army devastated their morale, which showed in the battle with the Romans.
Without the presence of the Spartans, they would have crumpled before the legion.

Wavebringer stood in the defaced noble house that belonged to his daughter and her husband. Lightning flashed outside the windows and rain pounded on the roof. Julius was taken in front of the senate building and forced to declare his treason, and then executed. His daughter lay before him in a pool of blood, slain by a Spartan. His face was expressionless There were two Spartans that took Julius, Euranio and Agon. He saw their faces, and he would not forget.

GENERAL CHARACTER STUFF

Flak: Add 30 devoted followers, gained from people joinging tribe

Zakoss: Gain 15 influence from your deeds.

Masamune: He found the future emperor of Japan after 5 years of searching. Walking down the road, he rounded a bend and saw her, a young woman with sword outstreched, family behind her and armed men ahead. Masamune’s lips tightened and he started to draw his sword, but the woman had already leapt into action, her sword a blur as she took out one bandit, then parrying a blow, she spun and cut the throat of another, sending blood spraying. She easily disarmed the last one, and let him run off with a boot in the back. She turned and looked at Masamune, and in her he saw what he had spent so long searching for.
Kyou: 5/6 Mostly Sindari. Lives 200-400 longer than average. Can be many times faster and stronger, along with more intelligence, than a average human.

Eltirian: The dark maelstrom in the south called to Eltirian. It grew more ominus year after year as it slowly crept north. He probed at it, looking for the source of the storm, but the energy was far too intense for him to pierce the shroud without a more determined attempt. The 40 followers he had, worshippers of Sind through himself as his prophet, cared for and provided for him as he focused his work, and watched the storm in the south with ever more concerned eyes.

Amelia: Imbued follower: 6, almost Sindari. Surveying of the metals in the area reveals an abundance of iron ore and some silver. Around your base, Amelia began teaching her followers on how to better run their villages. The local chief listens to your ideas, and over the years trade blossoms and he becomes wealthy and powerful enough to become a threat to the surronding kings. He requests her assistance.
+180 followers, 1 chief.
35 Max influence

New players, if you weren’t mentioned don’t worry, your actions took place, it might just not have required a response from me.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Added my decade skill point to Presence, for a current value of 6.

Are you absolutely certain about this?
Acter didn't look like a vague purple blur any more; he appeared as a life-sized purple sketch of a person. Octavian was the only one who could see him, though, and the only one he could interact with. However, it still gave him certain advantages when it came to combat training.

"Completely. It's not like you can hit me with normal attacks now, anyway. Hit me with your best shot."
Alright... you asked for it, though.

It hurt. It hurt so much.

Tell me when you're ready for a second go.

Even though Acter told him when it would start, it still took him by surprise. Sure, each individual hit didn't hurt much, but they came so quickly...
He got up.
"Again."
Alright.

It hurt. It kept hurting. And it kept hurting for a while. It was a few months before Octavian could get through the barrage with less than a hundred hits, a year before he made his way through the gauntlet without a mark.
Then Acter started randomizing his patterns. It would be another year before Octavian was able to make it through with less than ten hits.

Spoiler: Decade 1 (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Decade 2 (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Decade 3 (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Decade 4 (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Decade 5 (click to show/hide)

So. Expected results... :D

Profit of 352 gold, 8 silver
23 dodging skill
18 martial arts skill
13 trading skill
10 "Acter's Manifestation" skill

Now at 1020 worshippers for the Sindari pantheon (just to clarify: yes, everyone is involved in this if they so desire). Breakdown:
7 tribal chieftains
7 tribal shamans
15 tribal warriors
13 horse trainers
10 horse maintainers
17 horsemen
5 cartographers
4 farmers
2 traders
940 other worshippers
Horses brought to the people of the North American Great Plains, and the trainers and riders are teaching the normal tribesmen what to do with them. C2, I need you to tell me how that'll work out.

EDIT: I just learned I have 6 additional worshipper points to work with. 3 of those went into Adjilia, so now 2 of those are going into Perception and the third into Presence, for an 8 in the former and a 12 in the latter.

Final character sheet:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Gazing Forward (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Decade 1 (click to show/hide)

----------

Spoiler: Decade 2 (click to show/hide)

Eltirian searched for wisdom and knowledge of the mind, and of the future. Yet he knew that there was a skill he had known. Something integral to his very being, something that would not be forgotten. So he bent his mind towards it, searching, seeking, knowing... something. He was missing something, something he had not seen before he became Sindari. Something he had not known as a mortal.

And then he realized it.

The sky was shrouded.

It was always... clouded.
A mix, and endless mess, of possibilities, choices, desires, needs, all mixed together to create the illusion of emptiness in the night sky. All most people could see were the stars and planets, and dark between. But those who knew, who truly looked, could see the webs, the clouds, the vague possibilities. He had seen them, comforted as if he was meeting an old friend again. Yet he had forgotten the skills he once had, to divine what threads were likely to be true, to decide whether the pictures they made were accident, or prediction.

But now? Now it had grown dark. Tendrils of black ran through the otherwise-colorless possibilities. Wars, deaths, famines and plagues, and those threads were becoming thicker. The dim stars vanished, one by one, even as Eltirian's Domain grew stronger. Hidden behind the prophetic stars, and the webs of future that were woven between them. It was becoming harder to ignore, to escape, to change the war that was coming.

Six years are spent using the stars to see the future, developing the skills required to divine what may occur.
+12 Divination skill, total of 12 skill.

Over a period of two years, Eltirian interacts with Glass's tribe as an "Oracle", or whatever they choose to refer to him as. He searches the future for them when consulted, and offers such services to other tribes. In this way, he converts new tribes using his mind, his will, his magic, and his skills, rather than his presence and social skill.
+80 Followers (5 x Intelligence ( x time (2), as discussed in Discord)

One year is spent with Glass's converted tribe, hunting down their enemies and collecting soul gems. After attempting to convert them instead, of course. Eltirian will fight with Mindbreaking and the soul-gem creation ability, subduing vast numbers of mere mortals with his mental abilities before converting them to soul gems.

One final year is spent searching the sky, searching the future, for any hint of what Atlantis will do for the next forty years or so.
(Leaving the information I might get to the GM. Event, anyone?)

Gain two points of willpower.

Waiting on the GM for a (Hopefully!) future-searching event so I can write up the rest of my turn.

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

Decade 1 of 5
Actions
Spend one point on agility (x2 Santoris)
Spend one action recruiting 60 adept Spies and 60 adept forgers
Spend one action growing the network (recruit 600 general followers) (I gather many of those engaged and angered by Rome's fall and include them into the informant network)
Spend two actions gathering info on the Cisharni themselves (who they are, what they're like, what their abilities are)
Spend two actions gathering info on the close allies and children of the Cisharni
Spend two actions gathering info on the current troop deployments of Atlantis
Spend two actions gathering info on current resistance movements/rebellious elements/ dissident groups within the empire

The Spartans were an unpleasant surprise and an unpleasant reminder that he was failing in his duties. He knew better than to strike with incomplete intel and yet he had. He had let himself be caught up in the moment and in the opportunity. He had gotten carried away by the possibility of a swift victory. It was time to make amends and to start preparing for his next strike. He began recruiting people who had escaped the Atlantean retribution on Rome. He took solace in the fact that hate for Atlantis likely had been burnt into the Romans for generations to come yet still he blamed himself for the innocents murdered by the Spartans. With an expanded network he began hunting down any info he could get on the Cisharni. Devoting himself to ensuring there would be no more unpleasant surprises.

Expected results
60 adept Spies and 60 adept forgers
600 general followers
and lots of info

TANGLE OF POSSIBILITIES

Eltirian came to. His head ached, and he winced at the bright light surrounding him. He tried to remember, but his memory was fragmented. A whirlpool, a maelstrom of fire. A dragon rising, and then consumed by darkness. A huntress, a Cisharni, staring at Rigel quizzically.

The stars had called to him. All present, all knowing, their powers drew himself into them, inviting him to glimpse the power that they themselves possess.

Eltirian had dove along the currents of time, following the potentials and possibilities that flashed in front. But then. . . a trap, a whirlpool that sucked him in. And now. . . Eltirian was here.

It was blank, empty wherever he was. A featureless white void.

“I set these defense long ago, a trap for those who would use the future against us.”
Eltirian looked behind him, nothing. When he looked to the front, there now stood a man clothed in white, elaborate robes embroidered with gold, his face covered with a golden mask.

“You are clever, to have come so far, Sindari. Your mind is strong, but you can’t hide who you are from me. But perhaps we can work together, make a better future for this world. How does that sound, Eltirian?”

With every word he spoke Eltirian felt the wards he built around his mind begin to fracture, warp under the immense pressure. Perhaps he could make a deal, or maybe just try to escape back to his own body.

What do you do?
A.Attack the man with your mindbreaker abilities.
B. Try to find a flaw in the trap and escape.
C. Negotiate, try to come to terms. He seems like a reasonable guy.
D. Try something else.

Gather my thoughts, gather my strength. Repair my mental defenses.

"Only the evil and the cowards hide their true selves when their hour is come.

Who are you? What do you desire of me? I am naught but an old man, Sindari or not."

He chuckles, "Such fire in you! You have no need of my name, just know I am the Secondborn of the Cisharni. You should not sell yourself short, you are far more than that frail shell. We could be allies! Think of all I could teach you! Just tell me where the other Sindari are, and we can work it out from there."

Then a crack in appears in your mental defenses. What slips out?
A. Your location.
B. Where one of the other Sindari are (you aren't sure who).
C. The role the Sindari played in the fall of Rome.

Though when something slipped out, something came in as well.
A.Information on the Uncharted lands
B. The Pharaoh's scheme of darkness.
C. The location of a void relic, hidden away from the world.

He felt the break in his concentration, and Eltirian knew he couldn't hide everything. So he did as he had trained himself to do, letting only the barest of surface thoughts be touched before he shored up the defenses and struck back.

In order to learn the future from the stars, one must know the stars. Know where they are, where they will be, and when they will be there. They must be at the forefront of the mind, and so those are what the Cisharni reached first.

As he noticed what he had found, the Cisharni realized that he could figure out Eltirian's location through the images of the sky, and he felt a fierce pleasure in realizing so. Allowing emotion into one's defense was a terrible mistake, one that the Cisharni would pay for.

As he ripped the secrets of a dark scheme, a Pharoah's scheme, from the Cisharni's mind, Eltirian realized that he might be able to win this after all...

"You seem eager to take that which you would bargain for. But let us bargain. What do you offer, and what is your name? Secondborn of the Cisharni is quite a title, but it seems clumsy for everyday use."

Search for a way to reverse this trap. How am I anchored here? Is the Cisharni the only one attacking my mind? Can I swap places with the Cisharni, forcing him to be confined by the trap and allowing me to leave freely?

Spoiler: Flak The Beast of the South (click to show/hide)

Spend six years leading Alzilu Altawi
spend three years training my successor
Spend one year reshaping my body
attribute point: Agility~10

Spend one year going to Amelia's mountain base.
spend nine years helping out at Amelia's mountain base
attribute point: Strength~10

Results
+6 leadership
My successor is a young warrior, he has a good head on his shoulders. He tries to not let anyone die unnecessarily.
My new body looks like an older male in his 60's, pale skin, graying hair, full beard, and fading blue eyes.
+13 construction

Spoiler: Will do the rest later (click to show/hide)

It's year 20. Octavian has been helping to integrate a second tribe into the one he had previously converted, as well as introducing the Plains people to horses and horsemanship. By this point, the process was already pretty much running itself.

Then he felt Eltirian get pulled into a mental pitfall. And he could feel what stress was pulsing through his mind.

He started to teleport as soon as he realized what may be at stake.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Year 41-90

Spend 36 years training
Spend 3 years looking for nature spirits.
Spend a year getting a nature spirit as a follower
Spend one year finding and taming a pack of wolves
Spend 9 years (one each) infusing the wolves with Sindari powers and shadow magic

By decades
1/ Int to 10
2/ Will to 3
3/ Will to 4
4/ Perception to 6
5/ Strength to 3

Expected results
+13 to Shadow magic
+13 to hand to hand
+13 to animal taming
+13 to magic sensing
+13 to animal Sindari power infusion
+7 to trapping
+9 Sindari wolves with shadow magic
+1 Follower

Fluff and stuff later.

Visions of a dark field, no life, nothing green stretching to the horizon. The Pharaoh, stretching his hand out, new temples erected, and masses of people gathered inside, never to emerge again. An artifact of immense power, a gem holding a vast multitude of souls.

The Cisharni chuckled, “You are strong, Eltirian. Not everyone could fight back against this trap for so long. But soon your mind will break, and I’ll have to shift through the pieces to get what I want. Surrender yourself to me, and I will spare your life.”

The mental assault intensified. A distant echo of Eltirian’s body flashed pain throughout his being. But as the Cisharni tightened the trap around him, Eltirian noticed a flaw, a weak point which he could expand and escape through. It was just a gap, a flash that appeared once every few seconds. It wasn’t much, but maybe, just maybe, he could break through it. Maybe he could even reverse the trap on its maker.

A.Escape through the weak point.
B.Reverse the trap on the Secondborn.
C.Assault the Secondborn’s mind, perhaps you can get more information out of him.
D. Surrender.

   Octavian teleported just outside where Eltirian made his camp. Winds whipped around him, and the stars burned strangely in the sky, some intensely, and others shifting in color rapidly. Octavian gritted his teeth and ran to Eltirian’s hut, and shouldered open the door.

   Eltirian lay thrashing on the floor, blood pouring from his eyes. Octavian felt a pain in his head as he neared proximity. He paused, there could be a danger from Eltirian himself in this state. What do you do?

I have legendary dodging skills by this point, and Eltirian isn't terribly strong, nor are his flailings aimed at me. However, probably thing #1 to prepare is to steel my mind against whatever may be going on here. Then, I will prepare to grab him if it seems like the immediate location in and of itself is going to become dangerous - especially if I feel like something is going to try to teleport in. I will only touch him through a blanket, though, and if such an event seems like it will take place, I will take out my reed Key, activate it, and set it on fire with a match, then evacuate the premises with Eltirian in tow. In addition, I will start setting other nearby things on fire, especially man-made things. Or, if I'm able to, use one of the soul gems and my own minor magical aptitude and just release a firebomb on the nearby area, pointing it away from Eltirian himself.
Try to send him some mental support? I don't know. Seems like it might help in some abstract and vague manner. Send some good vibes his way. Yeah, that sounds good.

I've received the message, go to smoke form now, and do my invisible stretch out thing were the smoke is so thin it is hard to see. Manipulate the soul gem I was given to boost my shadow magic, and if the Cisharni arrive, activate a field around me that makes the darkness cover their eyes so they can't see, then get to the other side of the country. Help Eltirian to escape if my help is necessary. Skills at the time were trapping +7, hand to hand +13, Shadow magic +13, and + 7 magic sensing. Activate the darkness gen only if the Cisharni are about to find my location, if they are about to write it off, or otherwise don't realize I'm there, just slink away.

There was a presence nearby.

A presence Eltirian knew.

That was bad. Octavian was in danger if he was near---a plan. This was a plan. A plan to help him escape. Eltirian started to bring up information in his mind. The ways he had trained, the time he had spent doing it, the meals he had eaten while he trained, everything inconsequential, yet related to more important information. He brought this information to the front of his mind, built mental barriers behind it, and then let the Cisharni into his mind.

As the Cisharni grabbed for the offered information, Eltirian would unleash the power of the soul gems he had collected, either unleashing a blast of raw mental magic, or forcing the souls of the angry slain warriors confined within. Releasing them directly into the Cisharni's mind. He would then flee through the flaw in the trap, trusting the distractions to protect him until he was freed.

If it failed, he would reach for the consciousness of Rigel, who was monitoring the situation, and draw strength, enough strength, perhaps, to smash through the Cisharni's mind, forcing him to allow me to escape.

If all else fails and my mind breaks, Glass will kill me with a stab to the head, and I will attempt to form a soul gem with my own soul as he does.

Spoiler: Character Sheet @ Turn Start (click to show/hide)

Spend five years making connections for, and sponsoring, the new Empress, spending all of my gold (250+65 = 315 total)

At last, Masamune had found his materials; the smithing of a nation required the finest of leaders as ingredients, and he was sure that Noriko would produce a top-quality alloy, so to speak. The woman had the tenacity and the thoughtfulness needed to lead; things that could, at their core, not be taught. However, it took more than good iron to produce a suit of armor - for a country was much closer to that, a tool to safeguard and protect that must be proofed against all angles, and not like a blade which existed for only one purpose. He spoke of her cause to those that would listen, of the mission to finally end this pointless slaying of brothers and sisters - and to those who did not listen, he offered his services and his gold, in exchange for supporting her budding regime.

Spend ten years creating a great castle for Empress Fuuri Noriko, with the assistance of Amelia's engineering talents and Wavebringer. Continue funding it with all incoming profits from my guild. (160 gold)
Spend one year, alongside Amelia and Wavebringer, imbuing her with Sindari power.
Gain 2 Strength.

A suit of armor, much like a regime, was useless if it shattered at the first blow. So Masamune reached out to his companions: "Join me," he said, "and help me ensure that this new nation will stand the test of time." And so Amelia and Wavebringer sailed forth, to Masamune's humble abode, where he laid out his plans: combining the unique powers of himself and Amelia, and the expertise of both, they would construct a grand fortress, impregnable to all but the harshest assaults both magical and otherwise, creating the most titanic artifact known to man and immortal alike. He worked to piece the great construction together with his own hands, personally forging the gates that would need to withstand the rage of the Cishari. As he did so, he uncovered an art of magic almost by mistake; a talent for empowering himself beyond what even he should be capable of, and he slowly honed it through the course of the construction as his raw physical power increased to match.

And when the final stone was placed, and imbued with power that Amelia and Masamune both called, the three Sindari called the empress to a secret meeting, in a chamber behind what was to be her new throne room in Heian-kyō. There, they conducted a ritual that would seal their allegiance forever, placing a fraction of their own power within the woman, making her into something. . . more than human. Something much like the Sindari themselves. Masamune offered her a choice piece of caution, however; their foes would recognize her aura on sight, and seek to destroy her immediately. If it was made known that she was undying and powerful, it would only be a matter of time. It was up to her, whether to continue on holding that throne until she was felled, or to pass it on and fade into the shadows when the time came.

Spend four years constructing artifact amulets, intended to hide a magical aura from a Cishari's sight. Gain 2 Willpower.

With her fortress constructed and the woman given a base of power and prestige from which to build as the divinely-mandated Empress, Masamune sought to attack the problem that faced all of his kind; they were easy to find, painfully so, if their enemies searched in the right places, and presently they had little chance of withstanding a direct fight - a fact that their foes knew well. Acter's agony as he died echoed through his mind, as he shut himself into his forge for many, many long days and nights, creating the seemingly-insignificant trinkets that would impart the same quality to their wearers.

Spend ten years advancing in Smithing. Gain 1 Perception.

Safe for now, or at least so he believed, Masamune set about refining his talents even further, reaching heights that no mortal could hope to achieve in his command of metalwork. He worked to develop an almost supernatural sense of what needed to be done to a blade or a helm in order to render it sharp or impregnable - though this was simply his increasing experience with metalwork, and constant experimentation with new techniques. . . for the most part. His blades cut faster and deeper, taking on unusual shapes and oddly beautiful patterns in their metalwork, and his armors seemed that they would withstand the hammer blows of a dragon's limbs before failing.

Spend another decade forging masterwork arms and armor for the Empress's forces and the other Sindari. Also, use all gold accrued since the last usage to continue sponsoring the Empress (312 gold). Use free time to practice Swordsman, Enhancement. Gain 2 Strength.

Masamune continued trying to aid the new Empress as best he could, using his talents as a smith. Her captains and generals were supplied with the finest armors and weapons that Masamune could devise, in an effort to preserve everything and everyone that could be valuable to her in her quest. And during this time, he continued to forge himself, for the conflicts that would surely come his way in the future.

Spend two years forging himself an artifact blade, Yakumo, using alchemy to supply hihiirokane. The blade appears to be made of a blue fire, a twin to the Empress's in pattern if not in size, and can slash through anything, including magic.

The Cishari would inevitably come for him, regardless of his hiding. He needed a weapon, worthy of a demigod - and the only being that could provide such a thing was himself. So he created a personal weapon, suited to his own style of swordsmanship. It held a different kind of grace than the blade Purpose; if Purpose was the warmth of an open campfire, or the comfort of a breeze on the wind, then Yakumo (Eight Clouds) was the stability of solid walls, a strong foundation. A weapon meant to be wielded with power and purpose. While it lacked the explicitly magical qualities of its sister sword, it was exceptionally sharp, said to be able to cut wounds in mountains and the air itself.

Spend three years forging artifact armor, leaving the name up to the whims of time. Also using alchemy to provide hihiirokane. It is a simple gray-black across all parts of the armor, tied together with brilliant scarlet chain so fine it seems to be silk at first glance. There is one exception - it bears the sigil of the Empress emblazoned across the right pauldron. Any decoration further applied to the armor stays in place until it is deliberately removed, never suffering the damage of battle. The armor itself absorbs magic directed at it, and expends it to fuel the wearer's movements. It is also indestructible by normal means.
If necessary, spend an additional year collecting soul gems for the armor, using willing volunteers (as a form of seppuku.) If not needed, use this time to train Swordsmanship.

Focusing on only felling his enemies, however, would surely lead to his premature destruction. And, though he might have been a powerful warrior in his own right as well as a mage, he still feared what any simple swordsman would: magic, the mysteries of the universe turned against him. And so Masamune forged a set of armor, christened with no name save what those who set eyes upon it deemed it should have. A set intended to turn the power of his foes against them, while increasing his own; it would take magical energy directed at it, and use it to increase the wearer's power rather than annihilating them.

Spend three more years honing Swordsmanship. Gain 2 Intelligence.

With his great works completed - for a time - Masamune set out to perfect the art of wielding blades, rather than forging them. Though he would prefer not to be remembered as a warrior, he preferred even more not being easy meat for a Cishari bent on his destruction. He sought out the finest swordsman, samurai and onna-bugeisha and ronin alike, and challenged them until he could fight all he met to a draw.

Spend one year reorganizing the smithing guild to accept craftsmen of all varieties, investing all current gold (130) to do so, bringing gold/action to 26.

Masamune sought to be a beacon not only to metalworkers, but all who sought to make their marks on the world with their tools instead of their blades, and so he reorganized his already-venerable guild of blacksmiths into an organization accepting all varieties of craftsman, encouraging them to share techniques and information with one another, and to band together when needed.

Expected gains:
-Continued allegiance of the Empress
-Gain 1 Enchanting skill, total of 13, from castle construction
-Gain 3 Dampening skill, total of 13, from castle construction
-Gain 11 Enhancement (Magic) skill, total of 11, from refinement during castle construction+practice in free time
-Gain 10 Smithing skill, for a total of 24.
-Gain 9, possibly 10 Swordsmanship skill, total of 15. Potential total of 16.
-A quantity of artifact magical amulets, indestructible by normal means, that hide the Sindari auras of their wearers. At least enough for all living Sindari, potentially up to three times that number.
-The artifact blade Yakumo.
-The nameless magic-absorbing armor.
-A set of masterwork arms and armor for all Sindari (forged at 24 - Legendary +10 skill)
-Total of +4 Strength, total of 8.
-Total of +2 Willpower, total of 6.
-Total of +2 Intelligence, total of 6.
-Total of +1 Perception.
-13 Influence.
-13 more gold/action from expanding business (craft guild.)
-Grandchildren? Possibly with important connections?
-Unknown amount of influence.

Spoiler: The Ever Hiding Sun (click to show/hide)

First Decade

+20 Influence gained.
+13 Gold Donated.
Greece's political climate understood

The plan worked just as Archaementes expected. Though some of Corinth's nobility scoffed at the stories told about the intelligent newcomer, many were intrigued enough to hear more about him. After Archaementes' devoted nobles gave a detailed explanation, being careful not to mention his slight anti-Atlantean bent, they decided that even though they don't fully trust him yet, at least he made more sense than all of these roving 'philosophers' that visit Corinth often. Willing to support this stranger, some of them even dug into their personal treasuries for a donation that they can give to him. However, many of them were still recouping their losses ever since Greece fell to the Atlantean Empire and thus could only afford to give him a small amount of gold. Lastly, they explained that the citizens of Greece's city-states are craving for independence from the Atlanteans. However, there are many Greeks in positions of power who collaborate with the invaders for various reasons like power and wealth, to name a few. Taking this bit of news to heart, Archaementes begin to determine a course of action. First he needed to do a few things first...

1 year spent traveling from Corinth to Rhodes and another spent returning.
3 years spent learning Espionage.

Visiting the Corinthian academy, Archaementes perused the library until he found a couple of scrolls depicting legendary deeds of famous thieves and spies. Borrowing them from the librarian, he gathered some of his followers, who then helped him create a disguise that would make him look like a vagrant. Bidding his followers farewell, Archaementes traveled to the nearby city of Rhodes and begin reading the scrolls for a few hours. Once he became certain that he understood the actions of the characters depicted as well as made mental notes on how to make them more realistic, Archaementes got to work.

For a year, Archaementes crept from house to house in the civilian district, watching the comings and goings of each family before sneaking into their places of residence. Each time, he rifled through their personal letters and other pieces of information. After copying down 'relevant' information, Archaementes made sure to leave everything as he have found it before leaving. Once he was in a safe place, he would tear up every information he copied as he was more focused on practicing how to copying and possibly stealing valuable documents rather than actually stealing personal information. Thanks to his now heightened agility, such practice was easier.

The next year, Archaementes went to the noble district and practiced how to plant items and to sow discord as well as how to watch for patrols. Remembering a tale from one of the scrolls about a thief who managed to sneak into a fortified palace to free a captured friend, Archaementes learned to map and time the routes the patrols will take. Eventually, he was able to slip pass each patrol without alerting either of them. He then watched the nobility go about their daily business, taking notes of who they were, and what they were like. Whenever an opportunity presented itself, Archaementes would break into a noble's house and steal whatever item they were obsessing over. He would then leave a note implicating another noble before leaving. Later, he would then break into that noble's house and placed the stolen object into a place where it would be easily found. Though he was almost caught several times while doing this, Archaementes managed to succeed in getting the nobles to bicker with each other with none the wiser. Satisfied, he left the noble district to practice something else.

During the third year, Archaementes practiced how to evade capture. After spending a few weeks mapping out potential escape routes, he would practice running through the city as if someone was chasing him. He would leap over obstacles, slide under tables, and dive through openings only to roll and keep going. Occasionally, a guard would notice him running and assume that he was a thief, which isn't that far from the truth, and each time he lost them in the confines of the city. Only once did a guard managed to catch him. However, thanks to his skill at persuasion, Archaementes only got the guard to let him off with a warning.(X2 Persuasion) Since that time, he'd changed his disguise every week and made sure that he didn't use the same routes. By the end of the year, he returned to Corinth, feeling confident that he'd learned enough about espionage at least for now.

1 year spent gathering followers
2 years spent teaching Espionage
2 years spent learning Cryptography

When Archaementes returned to Corinth, he received news that shocked him. Five years ago, Rome was sacked when it rebelled against the Atlantean Empire. From what he could gathered from the rumors, the rebellion started when the Atlanteans sent rotten food to Rome to ease her underfed populate. Having enough, the Romans rebelled and took over the city only to be slaughtered by a handful of Spartans who can blink into another location. Though he didn't know the exact details of this incident, Archaementes knew that his fellow Sindari had an hand in the rebellion and that a powerful Cisharni crushed the revolt. If that was true, it meant that he could be within striking distance of this Cisharni. Needless to say, Archaementes was frightened into action.

Returning the borrowed scrolls, Archaementes begin to gather more helping hands. Not knowing who to trust besides his devoted followers, he spent a year gathering extra helping hands. Picking twenty people who looked promising and were eager to serve him in less... honorable business, Archaementes trained them for two years to make them proficient in espionage. However, he still wasn't satisfied.

It wasn't until he was perusing through the library when he stumbled upon a replica of something called a scytale. A wooden rod used to send encrypted messages to various military commanders, a scytale was used by wrapping a ribbon around the rod and writing a message on the coiled material, such a message could only be correctly decrypted if wrapped around a rod with a similar diameter. However, feeling that the method of cryptography was too well known, Archaementes decided to invent a new method from scratch. For two years, Archaementes formulated a new set of codes using symbols that he was certain belonged to no known language. Substituting each symbol to a random character in the Greek alphabet, he though for a moment before changing his mind and making the symbols look vaguely like Egyptian hieroglyphics just to fool the Atlanteans. Finally, he designed a process to first jumble up the message, then replace each character with its symbol to encrypt it and vice versa to decrypt it. That way, even if the Atlanteans and their Cisharni masters somehow managed to deduct that the symbols represent characters, they won't have an easy time figuring out which language they belonged to.

After the cypher was firmly established, Archaementes gathered the twenty spies to him. Separating them into pairs, Archaementes taught each partner half of the cypher. That way, if a Cisharni was to kill one of them and capture the other the cypher would still be too much of a jumbled mess to be solved easily. That would give him enough time to make a better cypher or even relocate. Only he knows how to create the cypher. Giving each pair 4 gold to take care of their needs as well as to establish a network of informants in their assigned city, Archaementes sent them to the follow cities: Rhodes, Athens, Thebes, Halicarnassus, Byzantium, Sparta, Odryses in Thrace, Sardis, and Crete. After a moment of thought, he decided to assign the last pair here in Corinth. They can relay any encrypted messages to the others without him drawing attention to himself as well as determine whether there are any Atlantean sympathizers in the city.

Lastly, he telepathically sent the basics for creating a good cypher to the other Sindari. After the sacking of Rome, he felt that they could really appreciate the information so that they can create their own cyphers. After he sent the message, a sudden idea popped in his head. Though having a name would take away some of the mystery of his emergent secret society, Archaementes figured that it would give it a bit of solidarity. Like the rays of a hidden sunrise, they should cover everything they touch and by the time the Cisnarni realizes this, it will be too late. Therefore, his group shall be known as the Shrouded Dawn.

Expected Results: (I decided to not add the years traveled from this point on since it would be redundant.)

Wealth: 41 + 13(Donation)= 54 - 40(Gold given to spies) = 14 Gold 6 Silver
+ 20 Influence from connections with Corinth nobility
3 years(Espionage X2) = Expert Spy
Persuasion X2 (due to use and Prodigy trait) = Master Persuader
1 year(10 x 20 x 3) = 600 Follower Points
General Followers
20 Skill 4 Spies = (2 years(Espionage X2))
520 general followers
19 Devoted Followers currently held
Total number of followers: 559 = 3 Attribute Points
Giving tips about creating cyphers to other Sindari
2 years( Cryptography X2) = Proficient Cryptographer
Spies have been sent to targeted cities in pairs to create informant networks.
Attributes: Strength:3 Agility:4 Intelligence:6 Willpower:4 Perception: 6 Presence:3
--------------------------------------------

Second - Third Decades

4 years spent learning Fighting (Dual Weapons)

Though Archaementes initiately intended to talk himself out of any situation he finds himself wrapped in, even he knew that he would be decimated if he comes across a Cisharni who's not interested in listening so he decided to learn how to fight. After persuading a trainer to reduce his price for the lessons to 6 Gold, Archaementes followed him to the arena. (x2 Persuasion). As the years gone by, Archaementes learned how to block, parry, strike, and counterattack with a sword in each hand. Granted, fighting with two swords was harder than using just one weapon and his instructor even advised him against it. However, Archaementes wanted to ensure that he was still able to strike a killing blow just in case he loses one of the swords. As the training became more grueling, Archaementes resisted the temptation to use his Force Shield as he wanted to learn to resist the pain in case he was somehow unable to use the skill. Regardless, Archaementes' skill in fighting rose closer to the trainer's own level and, by the end of the fourth year, surpassed it. When Archaementes took the trainer down almost effortlessly, he knew that there were nothing else that he could teach him. Impressed, the trainer congratulated Archaementes and rewarded him with two of his bronze swords. Naming them Secret and Mystery, Archaementes thanked him and went on his way.

5 years learning the Force Vibrate Skill

Now that he felt confident that he can at least hold his own against anything short of a dedicated Cisharni warrior, Archaementes decided to address their annoying blinking ability. He needed something that can stun or even kill them should they ever managed to blink within range. Finding a suitable spot far from the city, Archaementes sat cross-legged on the ground and concentrated. He could sense the eldritch energies around him, vibrating rapidly. Directing these energies, Archaementes sought to strengthen them, to give them more force and purpose.

He believed that if these energies are to be slammed into a target with enough force, the resulting effect would be best described as an artificially induced seizure. Such a force would be able to stun even a fearsome warrior through his armor or, if powerful enough, kill him by liquifying his innards. In the case of an opponent using Blink, this ability can also be manipulated into radiating from the caster to stun him just as he is reappearing.

For five years, Archaementes practiced manipulating this force. It was difficult in the beginning. The vibrating energies were unsurprisingly unstable and he struggled to keep them under his control for a minute without them breaking away. However, he learned that by keeping them in constant flux the energies were at the very least more stable. Once he mastered this, he begin to direct the energies at objects. Whenever an object was too dense to be warped or internally damaged, he applied more force. However, though he was more than capable of liquifying mortals from the inside, it seemed as if he needed something else, something that will boost his power.

4 years spent training Force Shield

For four years, Archaementes continued to improved him ability to force a shell of force around himself. He'd even got some of his devoted followers to aid him. Each time they would attack him with weapons and each time he would block them with his Force Shield. He also practiced forming shields around each of them and maintaining the protection while they sparred with each other.

3 years training Cryptography

Archaementes spend the next three years improving his skills at encrypting and decrypting messages. Satisfied, he updated his cyphers to be harder to crack and sent the new version to his spies, as well as three new directives:

Find any job openings in their assigned city's government and military for him to fill with handpicked recruits.

Identify those who wish for their city's independence and those who are collaborating with the Atlanteans.

Find more information about the strange Cisharni who led the Spartans to sack Rome.

With these orders, Archaementes envisioned a new era for Greece and other cities, one in which the Shrouded Dawn is pulling the strings of the kings who will be dancing to their tune.

4 years working as a teacher

Running low on funds, Archaementes decided to return to the academy to work as a teacher. Though many have wondered why he didn't take over as headmaster when the one who took him in thirty six years ago died, Archaementes personally chose the position to keep a low profile and to keep the true face of the Shrouded Dawn a mystery. It's quite fitting that the place where it all began would become the heart of it all.

Expected Results
4 years( Fighting (Dual Weapons) x 2) = Accomplished Dual Wielder
Items: 2 Bronze Swords
5 years( Force VIbrate X2) = Master Force Vibrate
4 years( Force Shield X2) = Grand Master Force Shield
3 years( Cryptography X2) = Master Cryptographer
4 years(Proficient Teaching(4)x52 weeks) = 832 silver = 83 gold and 2 silver
Previous balance = 14 - 6 gold, 6 silver = 8 gold, 6 silver
New Balance = 83 + 8 gold, 6 + 2 silver = 92 gold, 8 silver
Persuasion X2(due to use and Prodigy trait) = Grand Master Persuader
Information concerning job openings for Archaementes' agents, high ranking officials and their allegiances, and possible clues concerning the Inquisitor.
-----------------------------------------------

Fourth - Fifth Decades

1 year gathering followers
2 years teaching Espionage

Gathering devoted followers in Corinth, Archaementes trained eight of them to be spies. Giving them the same instructions and cyphers as the others, he gave each pair 5 gold and send them to Sicily, Southern Italy, Northern Italy, and Gaul to set up informant networks.

5 years learning Assassination.
Bounty paid for hunting bandits.
Soul gems

Feeling that creating a spy network to locate potential adversaries wasn't enough, Archaementes decided to learn methods to taking them down. He already know how to sneak through defended locations from his days of training in Espionage and he is already good with fighting in melee so such a course of action seemed natural. Having received tips from the trainer on how to take down foes during his time training in fighting, Archaementes asked around for any bounties placed on wanted criminals.

Finding a few, Archaementes tracked each person to their locations. Identifying his targets, Archaementes formulated many ways to kill them, using the current situations to his advantage. For five years, he practiced using distractions to lure the bandits into a trap or separating their bodyguards so that he can go in for the kill.

In other situations, he often engineered accidents that killed his targets without alerting their comrades. Any bandits who survived the encounter had their souls forged into soul gems. On a number of occasions, Archaementes trained himself to wait for hours, even days, for the right moment to strike. Taking notes of his techniques, Archaementes continued to hunt down the wanted criminals until they were all dead.

4 years spent gathering devoted followers
5 years teaching Assassination.

Returning to Corinth, Archaementes gathered more followers for four years. Surprisingly, one of them was none other than his former trainer. He desired to do everything he could to free Greece and bring down the Atlantean Empire. Naming him Chief Assassin, Archaementes trained him and the other twenty new followers in assassination techniques. To maximize their education, Archaementes separated them into two groups and trained each group for a period of two and a half years. This resulted in them becoming adept assassins who are eager to prove themselves and are capable of doing so.

3 years spent learning Force Dash

After training the assassins, Archaementes went into the countryside. Closing his eyes, he focused on the primodial energies as he has done many times. This time, he attempted to incorporate them into his muscles, to greatly improved his speed and reflexes. However, as such a task was more advanced than what he tried before, it took over a year before he could accomplish what could be considered a minor success. Nevertheless, it was good a success as any so he went to the next step. First, Archaementes made shorter dashes, keeping the energies within his muscles as he moved. Next, he practiced making sidesteps and dodges with the skill.

Naturally, his body and senses weren't used to such enhanced movements and Archaementes found himself rolling on the ground or plowing into nearby objects. If it wasn't for his Sindari physiology, Archaementes would've succumbed to broken bones and internal bleeding. However, he didn't quit and as the months went by, he was making progress on the skill. By the beginning of the third year, Archaementes was able to breeze effortlessly pass trees, boulders, and other obstacles.

During the third year of his training, Archaementes went back to the city to train every night. He would practice his skill within the confines of the city by zipping around obstacles and avoiding slamming into the buildings. He also trained himself to move as fluidly as possible, often turning on a dime and making sharper turns. Though he couldn't dash very far with his skill, Archaementes can cross gaps between buildings and across opened doors without being seen. Unlike a Blink skill, Archaementes' Force Dash doesn't cause him to disappear and reappear at another location so much as allowing him to move so fast that he'd practically a blur. Of course, if he needs an extra boost, he has plenty of soul gems to spare and the ability to make more.

Expected Results
1 year(10 x 3 Presence) = 30 Follower Points.
4 years(10 x 3 Presence) = 120 Follower Points.
Devoted Followers
8 Skill 3 Spies = 2 years(Espionage X2)
21 Skill 5 Assassins = 5 years(Assassination x 2)/2 groups
Total number of followers = 588 = +3 Attribute Points.
5 years(Assassination x 2) = Master Assassin
3 years(Force Dash x 2) = Expert Force Dash
Soul Gems.
Bounty rewarded .
Spies forming informant networks in Sicily, Northern/Southern Italy, and Gaul.
Gold spent: 20 Gold
Remaining balance: 72 gold, 8 silver.
Attributes: Strength:3 Agility:5 Intelligence:6 Willpower:8 Perception: 6 Presence:3

(I noticed that if I trained the assassins for three years they would become Expert Assassins despite that fact that mortals can only go up to Adept. Since anyone who is training a skill is essentially going up two levels each year, I did the math and figured that it'll take two and a half years to go up to Adept, hence a total of five years for two groups )

((Updated my stats, and moved several details for hopefully better formatting. WILL edit more tomorrow. I just lost 2 hours of writing because of a stoopid 15 second brownout, probably due to local rains.

Also fixed my stats, where 13 is the capacity at the current time, as I've not done any focused training after Legendary status, and added +2 to INT as that was my last stat addition in the previous turn.

Most of those two hours was spent flavorcrafting. It's all gone now. :'( and I'll edit...it in...later.))

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 5th turn. 50 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

Name: Amelia
Alias: The Builder
Appearance: Amelia will always appear as a young woman of varying sturdy build, with a light brown complexion, dark colored hair, and golden hued irises.
Class: Bandorin
Abilities: Alchemy, Artificer (She may create items that provide bonuses to attributes over time, or imbue items that will aid in certain tasks, such as providing the ability to sense Cisharni for example as a high note; basically this is a trait of a general craftsman who may make items herself or templates for items)
Attributes: Strength*:2 Agility:2 Intelligence*:10 Willpower*:4 Perception:2 Presence:2

Quote from: Wealth/Assets

10 gold invested into a 'caravan'

Influence: 35
Followers (Not including Family/Worshippers): 380
Worshipers/Power: 1; +1
Family:1

Quote from: Skills

Mining: 10 [Great] Engineering: 13 [Legendary+] Administration: 8 [Expert] Enchanting: 8 [Accomplished] Persuasion: 12 [Grand Master] Teaching: 5 Bending: 4

Quote from: Base

Aboveground
> A preserved locality of a village and terraced farmland exists on a mountain plateau, where the entrance to the underground base starts. The start of a caravan/trading area is also present.
Underground
> As of now I can assume it is thoroughly mapped out, alongside fault lines and danger zones--it can hold 100 people in full comfort to their needs, with graceful decorations and multiple facilities providing various amenities akin to wealthy above-ground structures and service areas. Recent adjustments enable both enchantment and engineering at a wider scale, making larger structures or expansion to be safely done.

Quote from: Other Notes

> The region my character is in, in our history is Ifugao (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ifugao#History). It is surrounded by, or has proximity to 4 kingdoms spanning the whole landmass, excluding that of the mountains (which is more a plutocracy of tribes). All Kings are neutral in disposition to me, other than the Eastern one--a powerful King named Koan.

***This world is of a similar, but different timeline than our own, having roots with physical and understandable magic as part of its physics and natural laws; one major indicator is the differing tech levels that equal an advance of society despite it being the relative 12th century period. (Map (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/East-Hem_1200ad.jpg))

In the 50th year since Sindari creation

First Decade

Quote from: First decade expectations/summary

+ 1 x 10 years = 10 gold from the decade profit from Business
+ Invest that 10 gold back into business
> +1 to Persuasion [cap' at 13]
> -35 influence; gain in connections with spirits [probably by event] in relation to local base
> +2 Teaching
> +1 Bending
> +3 Enchanting
> +3 Mining [cap' at 13]
> Examining that one Gemlock rifle, dispelling its enchantments or destroying it (maybe saving its soul gem), and otherwise making it either safe for use, or memorized its use and function in discreet detail. Also rendering it gone from the Cisharni.
> Helping out with the Empress' castle, alongside further knowledge in minerals, metals, and how to better alchemize it.
> Chief event being triggered as per Turn 5 update, Spirits event (possibly)
> Local Romans and other followers being integrated well with local culture and social climate, adaptation of skills in different contexts, and especially the starting presence of general education (+ to follower maximum skill capacity)
> +2 WILL

All years prior, within, and after to her journey to Masamune, in Japan, were intertwined. Amelia was glad she had someone as Octavian to transport here where she needed to be.
> 1 year of Focused Enchanting, learning the general foundations of wards and lasting enchantments on items.
> 1 year of Enchanting, focused on that gemlock rifle I put in Ammon's stash, upon realizing that it can be tracked and should be destroyed henceforth--learning its process, alongside Engineering skill, to replicate and memorize or adjust from its base structure.
> 1 year of Persuasion; expend all 35 influence in getting more connected with local shamans/spirit speakers and THEN inquire about a mutual pact with the local spirits. Persuasion is used to deal with local chief, focus on peaceful attempts, and connect to local Kings.
> 1 year of Teaching; inspired by the Roman senator/scholar, Amelia began to create a local/general translation book, and to also spread education (or the notion of it, adding in Persuasion and awareness in how she spoke), alongside integrating the skills of the Romans with the locals, and passing more of her skills onto her Nu-Sindari follower (and others)

Spoiler: Flavor (click to show/hide)

From the writings of Lucus Octavius Casius; Senator, and Scholar of Rome. [Translated into a more modern writing for the readers]

It was four years since I had met this wise woman, this person whom I had felt stood among the prophets and oracles, or at least orators, of whomever she came from. Four years to get to know her, and her kin, and to realize, and come to terms with the fact that my homeland had disappeared, fallen and disgraced. To learn through this wise woman, that magic and the Gods still dwell among us, and to learn that she was part of them, from her own words and deeds.

I, among 50 survivors, most likely the last of the Senate, am amongst a handful who had escaped the fall of Roman Empire; my homeland of 45 years. I am--or was, a Consul of the Senate, having planned to leave only to write a historical account of what had occurred, perhaps spending some time in the local peninsula where I would be safe from Grecian spies or enemies of Rome, but this was not the case.

The wise woman known as Amelia, without any title, surname, or otherwise, approached us on the eve of *Ianuarius, and began speaking in ways I would only describe as prophetic, charismatic, and very much as if she was an orator beholden to the Gods herself; I first thought of her as a prophet, and yet she spoke with wisdom and skill far surpassing those who questioned her, of whom I thought were haughty and disdainful, but were actually Grecian spies, or even aligned with Atlantis and its glorious capital. To know this was to foretell doom, as if there were anyone arrayed against Atlantis, only death would be certain. I had tried telling all I could, from the Consul Publionus, to the various families who had partaken of what I presumed were Atlantean weaponry and armor in their homes. It was for naught, as despite my connections and skills, and that of this wise woman, the others were either too confident in their standing, or they had believed that it was merely a secondary reinforcement to the first Peacekeeping force. Either way, I was one of the last to leave on a temporary trip, with my family and those who could escape in time, alongside the Praetor Sirius Facetus. Amelia was the last of us who had left Rome through a fiery-haired foreigners' aid. Apparently, it was to far more a distance than I had presumed.

We were brought to a faraway land, wholly different from what I was used to seeing, or of that in any of the scrolls, letters, or orations I have recalled. The people had buildings out of stone and wood, yet the statues were of mostly wooden design, and exquisite in their form. They lacked the pillars, and stone foundations of walls and borders, and spoke in a strange language that was short in phoneme, and pronounced in dictation. The locals were very friendly and generous, and had **similar skin coloration of the Iberians or Celts--of whom at first had me worried, for it meant we were still in reach of Atlantis at that point, until Amelia and one other who seemed like her daughter communicated with me in perfect fluency that I was in their homeland, exceedingly far from the grasp of Atlantis. It took a while to adjust, for myself and the others, but with the help of the two wise women, we were able to assimilate well. Our Engineers took worth of the local infrastructure, and accommodated their own ideas to their making, with Amelia scribing everything written down from word into vertical tablets, said to be utilized later on for rebuilding 'parts of Rome we cherished most'. She then left us in the care of her wife, who I had first thought of as her daughter, until a few years later when she returned from an expedition near our home, with details about those gemlock rifles that had devastated the soldiers under Publionus' command.
_{_{*Since we're in the 11th Century, I thought of using the calender most appropriate for its time--the Julian calendar, in comparison to our Gregorian Calendar which became used in the 15th century.
**Rome wasn't particularly 'white', as the media may present them to be. This notion is more...from the media (https://books.google.com.ph/books?id=AmXJxetTPxwC&lpg=PP1&pg=PA142&redir_esc=y&hl=en#v=onepage&q&f=false) in our time (http://www.cracked.com/article_20536_5-ridiculous-lies-you-believe-about-ancient-civilizations.html). Also despite ancient Romans being mean to ancient Celts in part, I'm adding them all there because of what I presume is Rome & other ancient civilizations being independent states...under Atlantean rule, given the history.}}

It was only the beginning, in what little I have to write, that I learned there was more to this than first thought. I assume Amelia waited until the time was right, but only after nearly half a decade was it that she revealed the full truth to me and all others from Rome. She was a demigod, alongside her companion who knew our native tongue as if she lived in our lands, and told me to keep these details confidential on my life. She added many details that ranged from caused a mix of emotions and feelings, in me and my countrymen, which were quelled in the coming years the more we got to understand her--and her companions.

> 1 year of travel; bringing my Nu-Sindari follower and the Romans, alongside other devotees to Masamune/Murdoc in Japan, and back (this'll be accommodated after the 2nd decade, but I do believe the travel won't take 1 year to be fully spent on)
> 3 years Mining; providing for the materials in both alchemizing (as done with me and my Nu-Sindari buddy), and making the foundations of the Empress' grand castle, but also prospecting and identifying metals for easier alchemical catalogue in the future.
> 1 year on Teaching and-
> 1 year on Bending, with teaching for passing over Bending foundations/skills to Nu-Sindari, and other utilitarian skills (engineering/administration) to the local followers in aiding construction.

In the 60th year since Sindari creation

Second Decade

Quote from: Second decade expectations/summary

+ 2 x 10 = 20 gold from second decade profits from business
+ Invest that 20 gold back into the business (ending up at +4 gold per year at 2nd decade end)
> +3 to Administration
> +3 to Teaching
> +2 to Engineering; becoming [15 Legendary+]
> +2 Enchanting [cap'd at 13]
> +2 WILL
> Aiding Masamune (in his earlier post) in making those invisi-amulets, based on an engineering prototype of a larger scale object in projecting/hiding the Sindari magic/glow or its residual magic from either Cisharni. Using Artificer skill, either making it soul-bound to the wearer, or adding a stat bonus to those who equip it (preferably WILL)
> Engineering spent to make the prototypes for the smallest of crafts (ie invisi-amulets), but also in being the follow-up to the Empress' castle.
> Empress' castle being lightly enchanted in turn, and made susceptible to more adjustment by Masamune
> Travel back home, alongside Nu-Sindari and all other followers on my part.

> 1 year Focused Teaching (assimilating new information around, etc)
> 1 year Focused Administration, to learn the local culture and climate, alongside its intricacies if ever adapted to the Empress' ideas (and also making it compatible with the benevolent Sindari idea in general)
> 1 year Teaching the locals Engineering, Administration, and Enchanting, to take care of the Empress' castle and Masamune, or otherwise aid them in efficiency.
> 1 year Administration of applying the above, along checking possible officials for service in the Empress' service alongside the systems/laws in place.
> 2 years Focused Engineering, to ponder over and thoroughly test a focused idea of Masamune's invisibility-to-Cisharni-or-possible-devices device.
> 1 year Implementing This Engineering, by first starting with a prototype in a larger scale (to also be used at my base), but to finalize into amulets as a written template solely for Masamune, and next to fortify/make more durable, the castle (alongside preparing it for enchantment or any modifications Masamune wants, by leaving templates/schematics in his knowledge)
> 2 years Enchanting, as with 1 year spent in enchanting the totality of the Empress' castle, in making it more susceptible to Masamune's enchantments, alongside acting as its own 'locality of awareness' so that we're aware of what's going on there--by his permission alone. In between, much of the 2 years are also spent on the amulets in perfecting them. This includes imbuing the Empress given the time.
> Travel home with companions in full.

Spoiler: Flavor (click to show/hide)

From the writings of Lucus Octavius Casius; Senator, and Scholar of Rome. [Translated into a more modern writing for the readers]

It has been a decade since I have arrived in foreign lands, and a decade since I have called these lands my home.

We accompanied Amelia to help one of her companions overseas, after having learned of where we were from local maps and tellings. *The people we met had a paler and lighter complexion, but also of similar cultural values and notions of beauty, like the blackening of teeth as I've seen before we had arrived here. Their traditions were different, but similar in my recollections of home in the sense of character value, and overall they were amicable people. Masamune was the name of Amelia's companion, and only me and a small group of others were picked to travel alongside. In the ten years of our stay, I approached Amelia about many things she had spoken to me and the other Romans in secret, and received my answer as she confided with me, a gem matching my birth, and an amulet casing in which to store it. She told me many more things thus far, that I could only confide in words instead of writing, but I felt at peace with my future, and that of my fellowmen.
_{_{* Had a lot of fun recalling my ancient readings. Also time checking (http://www.colorcrrush.com/2015/04/a-cultural-history-of-beauty-japan.html) where and what happened when.}}

We had adapted our knowledge from home, to our new home, to helping Masamune and his people. I had grown attentive in giving my suggestions, as I had seen the benefits the other Romans undergoing the more they integrated with the locals--Sirius was in charge of administration and had gained a family of his own, alongside organizing discipline and logistics of our trip, while the engineers were busy saving and sharing information they had acquired through judicious practice of their architecture and engineering, alongside the many methods of utilizing a stone for construction and durability. We had learned from the local populace of making rice mortar, when the common mix we knew was not available, and were astounded to its function in creating just as strong a mould, or even more, as our own work. This, alongside many others, were added in my suggestions to Amelia to put into writing for future generations, as I could feel my age catch up to me. Seeing her now, spirited and hale, would have brought envy to me if I was still in my old ways, but in understanding where I would go when I pass away, it brought me a feeling of hope; I planned to begin collating my notes, gathered from my heirlooms and that of others, and begin formalizing education built upon the precepts of protocol, from knowledge attained through decades before me by the wisest of people prior. I began to note and write, and teach others to scribe and dictate, what was to be done and what would be done in the coming years.

My companions, too, had adventures of their own. They had seen hills overturned, and their treasures put into use. They put into record, the spiritualism of the people I've been with--for there was much to denote even if we could not see. We saw the making of crafts only described in legends and lore; I was saddened that I would not personally be able to see more in my lifetime. But through all our journeys, I was gladdened to be able to help the scions of Gods add to the history of mankind, and even moreso, of those that sentience has blessed. Many works would be written, and I was put at ease in knowing that I could and have added to what would be done, for they live on in my companions, and in their memory.

Much was done in the decade I had spent overseas, and I will be returning home in the coming year; much was done even before that. I will be passing from this world soon, and when that time occurs, perhaps I shall be entombed in the skies above.

TANGLE OF POSSIBILITIES

Eltirian glared daggers as he prepared his mental trap. This would be his chance, he would have to act fast. The pressure around his mind was building, and cracks started to widen. Once he lowered them, there would be no turning back.

The Secondborn leaned forward, “And now, I will get what I want.” He grabbed Eltirian’s head in his hands, and then, the Cisharni was there. His mind was vast, more calculating and quick then Eltirian’s own.
But the Cisharni was right where he wanted him.
As the Secondborn processed the flood of insignificant memories, Eltirian reached out and drew the power of the 8 soul gems he carried, each carrying the spirit of a powerful warrior. He felt the Secondborn react, pulling away in shock as he realized his mistake. He was connected deeply with Eltirian now, and his defenses would be useless against his fury.
They both cried out as Eltirian channelled the power of the soul gems. A hot blue light slammed into the Secondborn and threw him across the white room. Eltirian felt the rush of power, a raging river coursing through his mind. The Cisharni screamed in anguish. White fire filled the room, and the walls of the room cracked and broke open, and blazing suns shone their light and shared their fire.

Eltirian was like a sun himself, burning with energy. In this fragile state he could feel the power, courseinh through him. He could finish off the secondborn, but in doing so he might be killed himself just from the blowback. Or he could try to direct the energy to destroy the trap and escape.

A.Destroy the Secondborns mind !!!
B. Destroy the trap and escape !

Power was a useful tool. Some spent their entire lives dedicated to gathering power.

But there was greater power in letting go. Learning that power comes in many forms, and that sometimes you don't even need it at all.

As Eltirian smashed the walls of the trap on his hasty exit, he reflected that it was good to be able to let go of power.

Even better if you knew where to put it.

Eltirian dumped all that soul-gem power into the Cisharni's mind, directing it towards the back of his mind, towards the psychic connections he shared with the other Cisharni, wondering in a scientifically detached way how much it might hurt. No malice involved, of course. Just scientific curiosity.

And now, he was free.

Spoiler: Flak, The beast of the South (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: First - second decade (click to show/hide)

Decade three
Spend seven years training in knife throwing
spend one year get use to fighting in armour
spend two year training with Ramah
attribute point:Strength~12
~
Results-D3
+13 knife throwing
Use to wearing armour
Ramah and I are use to fight together

Decade four
Spend seven years training dodging
Spend three years making a personal cipher
attribute point:Agility~12
~
Results-D4
+13 dodging
A personal cipher established
attribute point:Strength~14

Decade five
Spend ten years training Ramah to detect magic
attribute point:Agility~14
~
Results-D5
Both Ramah and I are better at sensing magic, when it is close.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Fluff:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Action Summary:

5 years performing guard duty by the locals to fit in along with doing things similar to the locals for influence and spending money.

5 years discerning event of vanishing villagers and exploring.

Quick Summary for desired results:

Familiar 0 > Familiar I

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Add more influence and a follower, dryad Kissiae
Perform jobs in order to pay for expenses

Octavian watched as the soul gems began to rise into the air around Eltirian. This was going to be bad.

He had been running for a thirty seconds when the first gem started to crack.

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

Eltirian had the advantage, at least for the moment. He decided to try use his power to escape the trap, but he would inflict just as much pain on the Second Born as he himself received. He unleashed his assault. The power flowed like a raging river. Too much power.

The white trap room was no more, instead they both hung in space, locked in their duel. The suns grew hotter and more intense, and he could feel the Secondborn’s mind begin to shatter. The Cisharni's form blazed with heat, and he cried out. His mind/body form exploded, and the excess power flowed back to Eltirian.
Fire enveloped Eltirians form, and he could feel his mind dissolve under the intense energy. Desperately he tried to contain it, but it was too much. The fire overwhelmed him.

Eltirian drifted in a sea of stars. His mind was dying, ravaged by the energies he could barely control. He felt Octavian nearby, and he sent him a last message, to put the empty soul crystal in his body’s hands.

THE SECONDBORN HAS BEEN STRUCK DOWN

ELTIRIAN HAS BEEN STRUCK DOWN

Spoiler: Wavbringer (click to show/hide)

Lily's death was only the first hammer blow to strike Miles and his family. It was decided that it would be best to leave the children in the care of the trusted family servants who had been sent to care for them during the evacuation. While Miles was helping them get established at Amelia's base in the Philippines, Olivia came down with a terrible fever and within week she too had died.
With his life in ruins Miles felt he couldn't go on living where everything reminded him of who he had lost. So he made sure his sons were prepared to take over the family business, gave them ways to identify his messages, and set sail for Japan with Violet and his most devoted followers. He arranged for a large storm to cover his disappearance by making it look as if he had been lost at sea.
1x Focus on family
-Find foster parents for Lily's children
-Transfer business to sons
1x Travel to Japan with Violet

Arriving in Japan Wavebringer found a secluded place to begin his rebirth.
One year later he emerged as a new man. He still missed his wife and daughter, and he would still have his revenge on the Spartans. But Miles had died and so to had his crushing grief. Kaito was free to live his own life.
1x Rebirth into Kaito a handsome Japanese man of the empress's age

Meeting up with Masamune he began preparing to help Empress Noriko unify Japan. The first thing was to establish a source of income so he started building the one thing he knew, ships.
1x Build a business (Shipyard) 140gold (14g x 7years = 98 Gold.)
1x Train skill: Shipwright

He then began to court the Empress winning her over to himself and to the path of Sind. What started as politics slowly became more, each one being charmed by the others wit. And by the time they were married they were thoroughly in love.
1x Train skill: persuasion
1x Gather a devoted following.
1 Skill ? Empress
1 Skill 5 Crafter
1 Skill 5 Diplomat
1x Focus on family (Marry the Empress)
1x Train skill: Swordsman
1x Train magic: Lightning
+ 1 Presence

When the shipyard had grown large enough he began to build the Empress a navy. It was starting small, but he was pouring every ounce of his skill into it and if he had his way it would one day be the finest in the world.
He also did what he could to help her on land, sending out diplomats to convince worthy rulers to swear fealty to her. And when diplomacy failed he would turn the weather itself to her aid.
1x Expand shipyard 140g + 60g (20g x 10years = 200 Gold)
1x Start navy (38 Gold)
2x train shipwright
2x Gather followers (3 presence x 20 influence x 10 x 2 Years = 1200 Points)
-80 Skill 5 Sailors
-40 Skill 5 Fighters
-40 Skill 5 Archers
-80 Skill 5 Diplomats
1x Assist the unification campaign

Eventually when the palace had been finished and the empires foundations were firmly established they could take some time for themselves.
With Masamune's help Kaito imbued Noriko with Sind's power.
And soon they were blessed with a family. The twins Namiko and Akemi
1x Imbue the Empress with Sind's power
1x Focus on family (Daughter Namiko)
1x Focus on family (Son Akemi)
+ 2 Willpower

Over the next two decades the empire and Kaito's family continued to grow.
He also worked to hone his magic, learning to create powerfully enchanted items.
1x Expand shipyard 200g + 100g (30g x 10 years = 300Gold)
1x Grow navy 38g + 100g
2x Gather followers (3 presence x 30 influence x 10 x 2 Years = 1800 Points)
-120 Sailors
-60 Fighters
-60 Archers
-120 Diplomats
1x Assist the unification campaign
1x Focus on family (Son Hideaki)
1x Focus on family (Daughter Mitsu)
2x Train magic: Lightning
1x Train skill: Enchanting
+ 2 Willpower

1x Expand shipyard 300g + 50g (35g x 10 years = 350 Gold)
1x Grow navy 138g + 250g
1x Gather followers (3 presence x 35 influence x 10 = 1050 Points)
-150 Skill 5 Sailors
-30 Skill 5 Fighters
-30 Skill 5 Archers
1x Assist the unification campaign
1x Focus on family (Son Takeshi)
4x Train skill: Enchanting
1x Train skill; Shipwright
+ 2 Intelligence

Using his new found skills Kaito began working on weapons suited to fighting Cisharni forces.

Spoiler: The Lightning Rifle (click to show/hide)

When the prototype rifle was finished Ammon asked Kaito to build him one that looked like a crutch.

Spoiler: Disguised Lightning Rifle (click to show/hide)

Shipyard income (35g x 10 years = 350 Gold)
1x Grow navy 388g + 350g
1x Gather followers (3 presence x 35 influence x 10 = 1050 Points)
-150 Skill 5 Sailors
-30 Skill 5 Fighters
-30 Skill 5 Archers
1x Train magic: Transformation
3x Collect soul gems
-Transfer 6 gems to Amelia
1x Develop lightning rifle
1x Create disguised lightning rifle
2x Make lightning rifles
+ 2 willpower

Ammon receives a disguised lightning rifle
Amelia receives 6 soul gems

Spoiler: Summary (click to show/hide)

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Fluff:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Activity Summary:

2 years translating the ruin's record of spells

2 years developing a tome to record translated spells

2 years training on spell forge

2 years training on battle style skill

2 years exploring areas for The Codex or clues to find The Codex

Desired results summary:

Presence 2 > Presence 3

Follower increase of possibly 10 to 20 from fluff related events

Fighting style increase I > III

Spell: Spell forge: Short sword I > III

Created item: part translated tome of fire

Skill: Archaeology and translation 0 > II

Either finding The Codex or getting clues to finding The Codex or any other possible areas to gather more magic related information.

Footsteps, from the woods.

At the edge of the newly created clearing, a man stared across the devastation, looking at the faintly glowing crystal being held to an obviously dying man's hand.

In the destruction, a ruin of a small homestead, a man knelt, and heard just the barest of whispers, seemingly from everywhere, yet nowhere...
Him, Octavian....him...

Octavian was, at the moment, sitting up in a tree, watching the smoke rise from what had, about half an hour ago, been Eltirian's camp. It was actually somewhat pretty, if one didn't stop to think about it.

Then he heard a vague voice, but one whose ownership was quite clear:

Quote from: Madman198237 on September 03, 2017, 10:11:46 am

Him, Octavian....him...

Hmn.

It was ten minutes later. Octavian was at the outskirts of the camp. There was a lone man kneeling at the remains of Eltirian's hut, sifting through the ashes.

"You'd be one of Elt's men, yes?"
The man turned around, startled.
"Don't worry," Octavian continued, "I was a friend of his. I heard that he might have wanted something with you... and I think I may know what that was. Come with me, and bring the gems. We may need them."

It would be nine years before the survivor would be ready for the ritual. On the tenth, he became Sindari.

Hunter of Bears, they called him. He had always been known for his strength, though as he grew older it was for his strength in mind rather than his strength in body. For twenty-five years he had fought for his people. For ten years he had led his tribe in the service of the Sindari, and it had been three years since he first been exposed to the power of the future-sight that Eltirian had wielded.

He did not know why he approached the camp so late at night, in the deep snow, why he had been so drawn to the location. He did not know why he had felt the need to speak with the stranger, nor could he have explained why the sight of the destruction and the dead body of one of the Sindari, one of the immortal beings they worshipped, did not upset him.

He helped lead his tribe for nine more years, carrying the strange gem with him the entire time, and the tribe grew stronger every year. They always knew where to camp, where to hunt, when their enemies would attack. After those nine years, he declared that he must leave for the tribe to prosper, and vanished.

In the tenth year, he awoke.

Spoiler: Because One Mad Scientist With Mind Powers Wasn't Enough (click to show/hide)

With Octavian's help, Turangol moved to a small area on a deserted island of Japan.

For eighteen years, Hunter of Bears trained the skills his new ally had once had. Instruction through this new mental link, with the soul gem. He did not remember what he had been, nor did he remember what Eltirian had been capable of. It did not matter, for Eltirian did. While the gem was almost powerless now, having transferred all its strength into him, it was still a conduit to Eltirian's mind, or what was left of it. However, a new personality was evident, and so the armor and weapon that Eltirian had had no use for found a home in the hands of Turangol. A razor-sharp spear and bow, as well as a camouflaged suit of armor, hidden beneath a long cloak, and for two years he practiced his mastery of the spear.

Gain 12 points in Astral Magic, 12 points in Divination, 12 points in Telepathy. Four points in Spearmanship.
One point in Strength. One point in Agility.

Ammon's Information Report

Cisharni:
   Information on the Cisharni is hard to come by. They don’t rule publicly, instead relying on the Grand Council made up of 12 members. The Council’s members are made up of direct descendents of Cisharni, and are nearly immortal. Every decade they rotate their positions. Rumors whisper that Cisharni themselves sit on the council, but that is unconfirmed.
   Most members of the public don’t recognize the term Cisharni. Only the elite really know who pulls the strings. The general person just worships them as divine beings, sent by an unknown god.
   Their numbers are unknown, but guesses range from 6 to 20, though the most reliable seem to point to around 12 Cisharni.
   Here are some reports gathered by agents on known Cisharni.

Inquisitor: He is the enforcer of order throughout the Atlantean Empire. More specifically, he is known to focus on keeping guns in the hands of the Empire’s forces, and out of the hands of any enemies. He is reportedly able to keep track of every gun in the Empire. He is known to be fast, and has the ability to control the minds of men. He wields a spear that is said to have been forged by Cisharn himself.

Artemis: Goddess of the hunt, she wields her bow with deadly accuracy. Prefers to surround herself with her maidens and secluded herself in the forest. She is known to take excursions east.

Apollo: Brother of Artemis, God of the Sun. Equally skilled in bow and blade, and has a tendency towards fire magic. He is known to be brash and headstrong. Recently burned down Capua for harboring rebels. Is currently enforcing order in Italy.

Hera: Mother of Sparta, she rules Greece from Sparta with an iron fist. The other city states like Athens and Corinth pay a heavy tribute to support her large and professional army. The days of independent cities are long gone. She keeps to herself in her massive palace in the city, and is only approached by those with Spartan or Atlantean blood. Further information is thus hard to come by.

Gromfin: Smith of Atlantis, no one has seen him in many years. He and his dwarven children are responsible for the arms and armors of Atlantis.

Atlantis: Atlantis is the heart of the Empire. A large island in the mediterranean. Its natural beauty is covered by a massive city scape, with towers and citadels rising above the rest of the city. Above them all is the Golden Star, towering high into the sky. That is where the Cisharni reside. The city relies on huge amounts of tribute that flows from all over the empire.
Atlantean Army: The professional Atlantean army maintains bases throughout the empire. It is too small to reliably cover the entire territories, so it relies on vassal states armies to be the first response to a crisis. The Rome Incident an unusual break of protocol in that regard.
   The army only accepts those of Atlantean blood into their ranks, those with purer blood tend to rise higher in their ranks, or joins their special forces. They are a deadly force, and when properly prepared can take on forces many times their size.

Navy: The Atlantean navy is the finest in the world. They have many strong warships, triremes and quadriremes, though they do have several ships that could make it across open ocean as well. They have bases in most of the major ports of the empire.

Atlantean Royal Guard: They are some of the best warriors in the world. They accompany the Cisharni, and man and guard the Golden Star. Armed and armored in adamantine, they are skilled in whatever weapon they prefer. Their numbers are made up of the more martial of the Cisharni’s descendents. They have a fierce rivalry with the Spartans, though their are a number of rogue Spartans among the Royal Guard. They number around 5,000.

Spartans: Descendents of Hera, they are the best regular fighting force in the world. When an army needs to succeed, the Spartans are called upon. They are equally fearsome fighting in formation and fighting individually. The majority of them reside in Greece, enforcing order and training the next generation. They maintain several colonies around the Empire. There are about 40,000 Spartans

Current state of the Empire:
   The mood across the Empire is uneasy. Rome fell into rebellion and was severely punished for it, who could be next? However, many see Rome’s fall as an opportunity for themselves, such as Carthage and Greece. Many fleeing the disrupted state of Rome have found shelter in Greek, Iberian, and Gaulish cities, forming a Roman diaspora. However, the heartland of the empire is stable.

   Recently conquered provinces are undergoing unrest, with bandits and rebels alike attacking supply routes and outlying villages. Gaul is the most orderly at the moment, being conquered the longest, though Persia isn’t far behind. Germany still rises in low level rebellion and clanwar every few years, and India is conquered in name only. The Indian people still fight against Atlantean armies, though it is unknown how long they can last.

   Italy is currently under martial law. Rebels continue to fight, but they are losing, and badly. Towns and cities that harbor rebels are punished severely, and those who stand against Atlantis are hunted down and killed.

   They have begun preliminary attempts to dominate the island of Britain in the north, and the heart of africa will soon be conquered next. India is still the focus of heavy fighting and consolidation, at least for the moment.

   Ammon has also received reports of all the major forces and their assignments, though by the next decade they will likely be outdated.

   You have also received word that the Inquisitor is seeking the Rat Prince. He has apprehended several of your agents, and has narrowed down your location to Egypt. It may not be long until he tracks you down.
   -50 followers
   +Information on troop movements, blackmail, sensitive information. Can be used to take up to three actions.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Fluff:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

The winds of change must have been in working overtime this decade for two prime things had to have happen: a death of a kin and a new Sindari homeland. During the exploration effort the new colonists became restless over the once was the idea of new Egypt; fleeing from the new order that was established since I had arrived. Before multiple incidents of the void creatures appearing on this isle and causing chaos to the villages; the few elites of the old Egypt wanted to turn this place into a new Egypt which was basically the same without the Cisharni. Initially everyone had the same idea until the other controlled and other empires warring with Cisharni and their people crossed over; it quickly became a war with the elites and what they wanted to do over the other in the land. The people, otherwise, came to a more common ground since they saw what they held instead of keeping to their traditions. Of course it did not stop one or two bigots from causing trouble here and there but it was a mixed society which changed to unify shortly after the first void creature attack. It would not be hard to understand if the people let their next nobles died whenever possible but that was easier done than said. A number of nobles tried to follow my example and died for it once the trap tricks began attacking people.

With the use of the partly translated tome of fire the locals, at the least what was left, flocked to me and their requests for things similar to using magic and I began sharing ideas for a more magic fueled nation. Though some were right to be scared of the possibilities but wanted to see it through.

The nobles having more and more citizens talking about magic and the possibilities began to become scared of such ideas and ultimately made the first action of allowing a revolution to kick off. They decided to have guards posted just about every corner of their respective towns. Incidents of people practicing magic came rolling in day after day. After a week; a storehouse for the noble's food was torched. While the other groups laughed; the one noble had pushed security up to find the culprits. Despite the effort they did not find who had done it and instead a week later another noble's food storage was burned. Within the month all if not most of the food storage was burned that belonged to the nobles.

From the shortage of food, they took to the streets and going around being as polite to ask to talk to folks. Some did allow and others did not. Those who did not were anywhere between a day and a week had their homes searched. Some were arrested after finding parchments or any written ideas hinted as 'in an effort to make magic destroy the land'. Others were left alone but enraged for such distrust in their loyalty even though they did not want to host a noble's dinner for the risk of being shown anything but a good time for the food provided. This back and forth went on for nine years. With attacks becoming more and more bold to the point guardsmen were directed somewhere else and the revolutionaries took down one of the noble homes between two years.

At the ninth year however everyone, but the most loyal, was not on the nobles side anymore. People marched to the last remnants of the homes and killed every last one loyal to the nobles that remained. The last of the old nobles was sent back on a ship to let their homeland decide their fate.

The final year was spent rebuilding with me at the head of Sindari owned territory with Soul Gems collected from the ten year struggle. Projects were put into motion for an academy to learn of magic and other properties of life; requested by Kissiae.

Now I bet you are wondering what was my hand in all this? I was the one who directed everything and the subsequent events leading to the guard turning on the noble houses. Kissiae did not partake in the 'barbarian's internal natural selection' rather only pushed for a request here and there just to be sure that nothing harmed her forest anymore.

Action Summary:

Decade (10 years) dedicated to taking over the port city and establishing ownership of the isle

Desired Results Summary:

Perception 4 > Perception 6

Taking and establishing a Sindari controlled nation

Note: need to add whatever result of the previous decade for finding anything worth of value to write about.

The Fortress at Heian-kyō
The fortress made at Heian-kyō was one of the great wonders o fthe east, forged by master crafstmen, and funded by tribute from warlords all over the Empire of Japan. As the Empress Fuuri Noriko fought to unite the last remaining clans, Masamune and Amelia gathered together to plan together the fortress. Flak also came, to provide the strength that placed great stone blocks together.
-Each Sindari can add one Magical feature, and one mundane feature. (Like Magical: Lights that turn on at night, Mundane: Diverted a river to fill a massive moat).
-Extremely Strong Gate, resistant to physical and magical attacks is already included.
-Masamune and Amelia as chief designers can add 4 features, 2 magical and one Mundane. Flak can add an additional mundane feature.
-Have 24 hours to add features.

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

Decade 2 of 5
Actions
Spend one point on willpower (the inquisitor has mind magic I'll be needing that willpower)
Spend one action planting rumors/leaving a false trail of the Prince of Rats having moved to Spain and the Iberian peninsula
Spend one action moving to Southern Italy and blend in with the refugees and those dispossessed by the troubles
Spend four actions and one unit of sensitive information for directing the network to identify, infiltrate and destroy Altantean spy rings
Spend three actions gathering the rebellious remnants into an organised underground (I will screen the rebels for spies and people who have used gemlock weapons)
Spend two sensitive information and knowledge of troop movements to manage the underground in order to have them avoid being found and opportunistically attack weak targets
Spend one action to keep up with troop movements through out the empire

-Fluff
With some information at his disposal he set off to Italy. To where the chaos and unrest was at it's worst. Partly this was to dodge the inquisitor but also to give him better access to the rebellion in Italy. But before he left he made sure to plant some rumors, fabricate some evidence and even leave an inaccurate physical description for the inquisitor. The description of the Prince of Rats that would be passed around was of a tall but unhealthily skinny man with a strange scar running from his temple meeting his nose beneath his left eye and that he always had a cunning smile on his lips. There was no such man and there never would be and the weird detail of the scar would invite speculation. Such a strange scar would have to have a story behind it, but Ammon left others to invent it. A thousand separate stories would be born each teller convinced that his version was accurate. Speculations whispered and woven into rumors that are endless and contradictory. But the Inquisitor would be better than that he'd be a man that had spent several lifetimes shifting through rumor to get to the nugget of truth that seeded it. But there was no truth to these rumors, no reason at their core, only entirely baseless speculation and planted leads that led nowhere. It should keep him busy for just a little while.

Rome was a mess. However, much as he felt responsible for the slaughter of innocents here everything was mostly going according to plan. Romans fled from their homeland, fear and need for safety conquering the pride and anger of those that fled. But that anger wouldn't go away, it would simmer and fester in their hearts and the hearts of their children as they dream of the home they have lost. They would carry that anger with them infecting new nations with dissent and a slowly building unrest against their shared masters. The abuse they had suffered at the hands of Atlantis had turned them into a slow acting ideological poison spreading rapidly and unhindered down the transport arteries of the empire, away from Rome and gravitating towards the safest and most stable areas of the empire. Ammon was ashamed. Even Rome would never stand against the might of Atlantis for long. This had been his plan all along, one he had not shared with the other Sindari. But as he stumbled through the ravaged countryside of Italy, the weight of his actions pressed down on him. As he passed through slaughtered villages he could almost feel their blood coating his hands. And yet if their deaths and suffering were to mean anything then he would have to do more.

Ammon knew that few rebels would trade their chance to fight directly Atlantis for a vague promise of bringing them down generations in the future. It was too late for that, in Rome and Italy the fire was already burning. The violent reprisals was sure to breed more rebels who in anger and hate would strike recklessly and be struck down in turn. Every unjust death serving to inflame an ever more desperate desire to be free. Those who had remained in the midst of this chaos were likely to either be too proud or be too angry to flee. This was not the kind of rebellion that ended with a return to normalcy. It would end either in some measure of small victory for the rebels and backing down of the powerful empire or more likely in this case a slowly escalating genocide of an entire populace. Ammon could convince some rebels to evacuate, he could save some lives but many would choose to stay and fight for their homes, for their families and for their pride. And there would always be more rebels fighting ineffectively before getting slaughtered. It was too late to stop the rebellion now, he had lit the barrel and set it rolling down a hill. It was too late to stop it but it wasn't too late to give it some direction. He would organize them, gather them together using his network and through his network co-ordinate them. He screened them for spies and people who had used a gemlock and put both into the Gemlock Brigades. These were units he would use to keep the enemies attention, an eternal distraction always on the move. He would carefully manage the information the Gemlock Brigades received because it was likely they would be captured or that the enemy spies he had deliberately included in their ranks would pass it on. Everything they were told was engineered by Ammon to be believable to enemy but would put them at a disadvantage if they acted on it. Killing a spy in your ranks is a loud declaration that you have found their spy and that they should send a better one who mightn't get noticed, but keeping the spy around lets you feed them and consequently their masters false information. It also lets you follow the information back a few steps and lets you map out their network.

Ammon's network mapped out the connections of any Atlantean spy networks they could find. Through infiltration they and observation they studied them and when they were ready they struck. Murdering couriers and silently replacing them, stealing copies of their orders. Under Ammon's guidance his spies systematically wiped out any Atlantean agents they could find.

In Rome he worked using his knowledge of enemy troop movements to keep the rebels under his guidance ahead of reprisal raids and away from the Spartans. When forces showed up to slaughter villages they would find the villages already empty no rebels in sight. He would have the rebels ambush the enemy when they were unprepared and far from Spartan backup, stealing supplies and weapons as they went. He waged a guerrilla war against the enemy, using his knowledge of enemy troop deployments and the Gemlock Brigades equipped with stolen and track able gemlock rifles to trick the enemy into moving where he wished them to. Any success against Atlantis opened up opportunities to smuggle out rebels willing to leave their homeland for a safer place. Ammon screened these people for spies and gemlock users before sending them to Amelia or any other Sindari willing to take them in.

-Expected results
+1800 followers (rebellion)
Move to Italy
False rumors

Features:
-Inner walls and keep slowly regenerate over time (Magical)
-Triple-layered construction: two sets of walls, with the inner being larger and sturdier, and then the keep itself (Mundane)
-Crops planted within the walls grow quickly, and soil is never exhausted (Magical)
-The throne feels welcoming and comfortable to one who is careful and sharp of mind, but difficult and almost painful to sit upon if unworthy (Magical)

Castle Features:
Magical - Automatic and silent alarm that notifies the inhabitants of the castle whenever someone with 4/6 or more immortal blood approaches (including pure immortals), including which variety of immortal they are from.
Mundane - Well-designed interior with escape routes, allowing for quick mobilization to either defend or evacuate the castle.

{Murdoc, please make sure that at least one of those walls is thicker than Blink range}

A well made Guard barracks.[mundane]
Guard Towers spaced out on each corner and two in between each corner[mundane]
Stocks of Ballista bolts near the Ballistas that seemingly never runs out[magical]

Turangol arrived, and strengthened the towers build by Flak. He then worked, with the help of the enchanters, an enchantment into a wall, that allowed the rightful ruler to see any place or person they desired, with a touch and a word. It was warded against dangerous sights and would dump the energy of the soul gem that powered it, should any danger to the user present itself.

With the eager Enchanters from Zealand come enchanted Ballistae acting as sentries. [Magical addition]
And the books needed to allow other personnel to create more of the same Ballistae or enchant their weapons. [mundane addition]

The Prince of Rats adds a deep, labyrinthine set of tunnels and small caves below the castle laid out in such a way as to not effect the foundations. These tunnels can act as shelter, a cold storage space for food or to hide things you don't want people to find. They also act as a final fallback position if somehow the rest of the castle falls MUNDANE

The tunnels are enchanted. When the enchantment is activated the routes through the tunnels keep changing in order to keep any invading force running around disorientated while slowly splitting them up. This enchantment can be controlled and directed allowing for the defending forces to be able to ambush groups of invaders that got isolated suddenly and from directions that used to be walls. MAGICAL

(Mundane) The fortress was more then a castle. It was a work of architectural art truly deserving to be called a palace.

(Magic) The great map table dominated the strategy room. It was enchanted to keep itself up to date, showing the empire and it's surroundings, and displaying important information such as troop positions or areas facing disasters.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Fluff:

No real fluff to write about unless I need to fluff out something.

Action Summary:

Intelligence 4 > Intelligence 6

Willpower 4 > Willpower 6

20

2 years developing Spell Duplication or Spell Echo

2 years translating tome of fire

2 years creating a teaching system for any possible facets of magic

2 years performing expeditions to ruins for new facets of magic

2 years creating part translated tome of air

2 years developing spell Mark of Sindari

2 years developing soul gem related armaments

2 years developing soul gem related armor

2 years studying tome of fire for spell access

2 years translating tome of air

Desired results:

Spell Duplication or Spell Echo: Able to replicate objects or a recently used spell, can duplicate an opponents spell. Rank II

Part translated tome of fire > Tome of Fire

Followers have a chance to become wizards through teaching methods developed in nation

Created item Tome of Air: Similar to tome of fire but of a different form of magic; translated through these two decades

Spell Mark of Sindari: A spell based blessing which converts a follower to a worshiper and allow a greater control of magic and its uses.

Soul Gem related armaments: use of soul gems in weapons; causing effects ranging from results similar to enchanting weapons and can combine with enchanting for greater results. An example would be soul gem encased knives that return for use and are manipulated by the magicians mind.

Soul Gem related armor: use of soul gems in armor; causing effects similar or greater than enchanting, can combine with enchantment for better results. An example would be a set of soul gem encased armor that has a layer of fire, rendering the user highly resistant to fire damage and perform fire damage on touch.

Spell access: Facets of fire, as long as the original tome of fire is in possession.

This sums up the last two decades I have for this turn.

Thorondir, master of golems, had never seen anything like heian kyo. The multiple walls were massive, and both reassuring and foreboding at the same time. He decided to Grace it with gifts of his own. He set to work, using his knowledge of golemancy, making the castle into a golem itself, so that it could better protect itself if the need were to arise. He also constructed a laboratory, where people could study and practise alchemy and potion making.

Spoiler: Narrator (click to show/hide)

Amelia adds the following:
[Mundane] A Great Forge, which could vary from being as compact as possible, to allowing apprentices and other tool-hands, for Masamune, embedded within the heart of the Palace, whose heat and output are only recycled (see below) rather than treated as waste. It would hold areas easily modified for the same enchantments and working-prototypes of Amelia and Masamune's works of 'invisibility' against the Cisharni, and have an area dedicated as a teleportation-transportation area, Sindari-coded, between this place and Amelia's refuge.

[Magical] A majestic courtyard to permit both internal festivals and other gatherings, but also act as a utilitarian magical area; with sigil stones or pillars, alongside creative poetic script from each and every prefecture's history and lore, creating the perimeter and tiled grounds, acting as magical-conversion wards, allowing any hostile or passive magic to be stored and kept (eg fire from the skies, to be lessened by the presence of these wards), to be dispersed or recharging the local enchantments/magic. Drainage systems would filter rainwater from impurities in their catch-basins, and store these soluble compounds as their own for further use (eg medicinal or chemical usage)
[Magical] A Grand Administration Wing, both for record keeping and knowledge, semi-automated to clean itself and ensure archival of data and information, with fixtures akin to a library lit from the stars or sun--to help and aid the administration wing of both magical and non-magical folk. (Also decorated with wind chimes and other useful miscellaneous items for the morale of the people inside)
[Magical] An enclosed chamber of peace and tranquility--inclusive with a calendar tracking the seasons and the breathing of the earth, forewarning against possible natural dangers, alongside its walls and murals venerating the spirits and other living creations. One can find peace, in meditation, and tranquility to project their thoughts to any Sindari, much like a regular conversation between them and the person. (inclusive with non-magical/non-Sindari, but never used by or able to contact Cisharni or their spawn) Its entrance guarded by a local spirit or construct, following entry by (verbal/non-verbal) wit and intellect, permitting only those of honorable intent, or of the same need, inside.

Mundane: The guards are now on par with the dragon guards

Magic: Aroubd the castle, Cisharni sense of direction and balance are confused.

Mundane: An underground room used for secretive meetings, strategic planning, and other sensitive matters that's not included on any blueprints. Its entrances can be hidden in places a potential spy wouldn't think to look. Cliched entrances, such as behind bookcases and underneath rugs, can lead to false halls filled with an assortment of traps, some of which would be effective against Cisharni like fire and explosives for example. The true halls leading to the room can be built long and straight to detect anyone at a distance and prevent them from hiding. The walls and floor can be made from a very resonant material can produce an echo when walked on or bumped against and small bells can be hung from the ceiling on wires. This will take away the element of surprise should the spy in question be capable of invisibility.

Magical: Create a network of well hidden glyphs throughout the palace and at some distance outside. These glyphs emit a sound at a pitch high above the possible hearing level of a Cisharni, high enough to be inaudible to the average human ear as well. The sound waves would bounce off people. This can be used to track whether anyone is moving throughout the palace, as well as their speed and location. This is particularly useful for tracking anyone who is moving into unauthorized areas or are trying to hide. The people being tracked can be seen using a special table inside a guard room using the palace's blueprints etched into the surface as a guide.

Serena crept through the Roman rebel base. It had taken years of sorting out false trails and hints, but her ability to track down the enemies of Atlantis was unparrelled excluding perhaps Artemis. A fact that the Inquisitor relied on, and the Rat Prince would soon learn.

The Rat Prince had become quite a thorn in the side of Atlantis, and one of the most wanted men in the empire. The raids by rebels had grown more calculated, and their forces harder to pin down and destroy. Atlantis had sent more and more resources into pacifying Rome, and both Apollo and the Inquisitor were focused on bringing this rebellion to heel. The Inquisitor had personally pulled her off her assignment in China to help track down the Rat Prince.

A pair of guards walked around the tent Serena was crouched by. In a flash she leapt at them, her daggers quickly carving a red furrow in each neck. She stood over the bodies, heartbeat raised perhaps by a beat as she awaited a response. Only the sound of distant conversation greeted her, but she felt something off. She tensed up, and prepared herself.

Ammon, the Rat Prince, stood watching in the shadows. She was quicker than he was, he observed, but perhaps he could deal with her in some other way. What does Ammon do?

THE GREAT SPIRIT

Amelia looked out over the crowd of wise women and shamen. They had labored long and hard for this moment, where they gathered together to bring forth one of the great spirits of the island. What they had left to decide was what spirit to call?
Spirit of Fire. Will aid in offensive purposes and anything involving fire.
Spirit of Earth. Will aid in defensive purposes and anything involving stone.
Spirit of Water. Will aid in both offense and defense. Also anything involving water.
Spirit of Harmony. Will aid in defensive purposes and encouraging peace and acceptance.
The Spirit of War. Will aid in offensive purposes, and in encouraging martial feelings.

THE CODEX

Zakoss woke in the middle of hte night. The Codex called to him. A dark cave in the mountains, filled with whispered promises of knowledge if only he would come find them. The location burned itself in your mind. What do you do?

Ammon had expected this or something similar when he had first heard that the inquisitor was on his trail. The speed made him suspect the assassin was Cisharni. That or they were one of the best the empire had to offer. It seemed the rebellion was being taken seriously now. He telepathically contacted the other Sindari wondering if any of them could offer help and backup. Using his Santoris ability he kept track of her in his mind's eye as he slipped back into the shadows and away from the assassin.

Few of the soldiers knew who he was, he was just a crippled camp follower to them. A bitter child that had lost everything. But there were a few trusted men who knew who he was and to them, he delivered some orders.

The alarm was to be raised and the rebels were to scramble and block most routes out from the camp save a couple that would appear lightly guarded. She by his estimation could cut through a great many rebels and escape even with the alarm raised. So he decided to give her a way out. She would likely withdraw once the alarm was raised and if she didn't she'd have to fight surrounded by a rebel force as Octavian hopefuly teleports in Sindari to deal with her. No she was a professional, an alarm would compromise her mission and she would calmly pull out and wait for a better opportunity. But Ammon had her locked in his mind's eye now. He track her now and when she left he would follow. Perhaps she'd lead him to something interesting.

From the sudden awake to the following headache, occuring after for an 'engraved' location in his mind, Zakoss quickly moved to pin point a general area of the vision's location. As he guessed the location is believed to be outside of what charted territory he, and his followers, have charted. Though this more came down to how the forest was actually willing to listen to Kissiae.

That was not on his mind; his mind was on the fact that whatever made contact with him in the vision was sentient and was calling. He quickly assembled some supplies for the trip before falling back asleep.

During the following sunrise, Zakoss spoke to the people of the now port city he controls and explains he is going to make another expedition into the inland. He encourages people to follow instructions he had laid out for rebuilding and protecting what has been established.

With that out of the way, Zakoss seeks out Kissiae to have her come along after sharing the vision's details and a valid hypothesis as to why the forest does not always listen to her.

Whatever is calling must be discovered.

From the darkened yard of his small homestead, Eltirian looked into the sky, preparing to search down the pathways of the future, when a sense of cold urgency and danger came over the Sindari mind-link. Fumbling his way out of the mists of past and future he had been preparing, he searched through the link, trying to find who it was that was in trouble this time...
In trouble again, Act---wait a moment, no, Ammon? Gah, immortal yet still an old man. Acter is now Octavian's spirit guide, or whatever he called it...

Finally, there it was. Ammon, staring at a fast-moving girl as she killed a pair of guards. This...might be an issue.
He hadn't ever tested his abilities, this should be fun.
Reaching out to Ammon, he warned him about his plan:
If you get attacked, I'm going to zap her mind really suddenly. Kill her, or incapacitate her, and get out. Give orders for the camp to be moved, and let Octavian get you out of there. The Inquisitor can't be far behind this little runt, for her to be so fast implies great gifts from him.

Octavian had already heard what was going on.
He had already started teleporting.
But not to the campsite. That would be next.

Rather, he had made sure that Flak was willing to help out, and upon receiving confirmation, began teleporting to his location. Once they were together, he would teleport them to the rebel camp that Ammon was in, to help neutralize the Cisharni agent.

Spoiler: Applicable stats at time of event (click to show/hide)

NO,NO, NO, I WILL NOT LOSE ANOTHER BROTHER!

Octavian, I will help The King Of Rats with his spy problem

I prepere all of my equipment and await Octavian to take me to the situation and if things go to shit kill the spy

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

THE CAT AND THE RAT

   Serena felt her tracking sense intensify, then weaken. She shifted her stance, and saw a young man with a crutch quickly gracefully move away. She hesitated. Surely that couldn’t be the Rat Prince? A sigh escaped her lips. She would have to confirm her kill.

Serena loped after the man. He was good, she had to admit. If it wasn’t for her hunting senses, she might have lost him in the camp.

Turning around a corner, she saw the boy talking with a grizzled warrior, who raised a horn to his lips and blew. The clear call echoed over the camp, and Serena could hear shouting and the equipping of arms as men prepared for battle. This had gotten more messy. The warrior stepped between Serena and her target, who studied her with cold eyes. She felt mildly discomforted, but a fierce excitement overtook her as she readied for combat.

   Octavian and Flak gather outside his tent, Flak wearing fine armor and sword. Where do they drop into the event?
   Ammon was able to sound the alarm, but is now cornered by the assassin. What does he do?
   Eltirian tries to gain a purchase in the agent’s mind, but the distance is too great and her defenses too strong for him to get much of a hold.

Right behind Serena. Well, maybe a yard or two back. Aim to capture if convenient, but if not, kill without regrets.

Spoiler: Applicable stats at time of event (click to show/hide)

As I apper behind the spy I hear Octavian's thoughts to capture and if not possible to kill.
I get ready to pull my sword, and step in front of Octavian.

Spoiler: relevent stats bolded (click to show/hide)

THE CODEX
   It was a hard slog to the mountain that held the source of his dreams. No one lived nearby, though a village lay deserted at its base. Zakoss and his familiar had to climb. The cave was high, the winds bitter, and the snows deep. Finally after several days of travel, Zakoss stood outside the cave. Power emanated from deep within. It called out to him.
   A guttural cry came from the cave. Shambling out of the shadows came a beast, covered in white fur and twisted with void energies that coursed throughout its body. 2 meters tall, it was a hulking brute on two legs. It stared at Zakoss with hatred and pain in its eyes. It cried out once again and charged.
   What does Zakoss do?

Quote from: Narrator on September 09, 2017, 07:25:09 pm

THE GREAT SPIRIT

Amelia looked out over the crowd of wise women and shamen. They had labored long and hard for this moment, where they gathered together to bring forth one of the great spirits of the island. What they had left to decide was what spirit to call?
Spirit of Fire. Will aid in offensive purposes and anything involving fire.
Spirit of Earth. Will aid in defensive purposes and anything involving stone.
Spirit of Water. Will aid in both offense and defense. Also anything involving water.
Spirit of Harmony. Will aid in defensive purposes and encouraging peace and acceptance.
The Spirit of War. Will aid in offensive purposes, and in encouraging martial feelings.

It was the start of a new decade; the first one since the fall of Rome...

Amelia was happy to piece together her memories of the honored rituals in contacting, and in revering the spirits. She had mentioned, indirectly, before now that she would be gone for a time--and another like her would return from across the seas to help even more, and even then the thoughts of the local situation was at the forefront.

There had to be peace, as any conflict now would add needless tension between her, the people, and the surrounding people of the island. They needed to unite.

Sometime later...at around a decade or so after the fall of Rome.

Quote from: Jerick on September 10, 2017, 09:59:19 am

Ammon had expected this or something similar when he had first heard that the inquisitor was on his trail. The speed made him suspect the assassin was Cisharni. That or they were one of the best the empire had to offer. It seemed the rebellion was being taken seriously now. He telepathically contacted the other Sindari wondering if any of them could offer help and backup. Using his Santoris ability he kept track of her in his mind's eye as he slipped back into the shadows and away from the assassin.

I cannot help, but I will be making equipment to ensure any further situations like these will have us prepared.

"Octavian" "Yes Rigel?" "I need transportation to Zakoss'a location." "Got it, hold for one second."
Rigel stood in the trees, waiting for Octavian. He was ready to help his brother, he had received a message from Zakoss, he needed help. A purple flash of light accompanied Octavian's arrival. "Hello Rigel, heard you needed transport." "Yes, a quick trip to, wherever Zakoss is, then you can go back to helping Ammon." "Yes, I need to get back to that, we'll be going now." A second flash, and they were gone. They reappeared on a snow covered peak, with a giant beast charging to the side of them, at Zakoss. Rigel let fly an arrow into the beasts leg, causing it to become unbalanced and tilt, missing Zakoss. "I'll be going now, enjoy your quest," said Octavian, followed by another flash. "Thought you needed some help Zakoss," said Rigel. Zakoss nodded, this beast would be a piece of work alone, but few things could stand up to two Sindari.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

'Ah so one of your kin showed up. He may not be alone I believe he has a few 'pets'.'

"Hello, Rigel was it? Your timing was spot on, nice shot."

Watching the Void Beast direct its gaze to Rigel; Zakoss focused his mind on the air around the beast to cause a very hot explosion from the memories of what the Tome of Fire has recorded.

Ideally making the creature becoming completely burnt black to the bone.

Slippery, aren't we?, muttered Eltirian to himself. I've got a few tricks for that, though...
Through the mental link:Octavian, step back from the battle. I want to try something...

Eltirian prepared himself to hit her mind with everything he had, should it become necessary. He would aim to distract and confuse, rather than break into her mind and take over. Using Octavian's mind as a way to get "closer", in a metaphysical sense, while leaving him (hopefully) able to fight. Or, you know, distract heroically. This way, Flak should be capable of knocking her out, then getting her bundled into Octavian's pocket dimension.

Draw my sword and attempt to knock her, the spy, out

Spoiler: relevant stats bolded (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

For his plans he needed the Cisharni enraged. Taking her captive would enrage them but they would react differently to a hostage then a death. The sudden loss of one of their own would shock them and that shock would cause a massive overreaction. They would feel the need to redress the balance with overwhelming force. He had intended to pay a few little nightly visits to some of the enemies high ranking generals and staff and kill them as they marshaled for this overreaction. With gaps in their command structure and blinded by rage it'd be possible to lead them into a great blunder. Many rebels would die and the gemlock brigades would have to be sacrificed for it to work. But stories of something resembling a victory would be a powerful thing as they spread through the Roman refugees elsewhere in the empire. From there the stories of how much force the empire had needed to bring to down on these simple Roman peasants would spread and reignite Roman pride spawning unrest everywhere they had fled to. Ammon's network would work to encourage this unrest and link together the existing local, dissident elements with these Roman rebels, bringing some of the refugees new neighbors into the new rebellion and spreading unrest and anti Cisharni sentiment through out the empire. With an irrational amount of force focused on Italy there will be little left to counter secondary rebellions springing up all across the empire. With Ammon's network and his team of forgers flooding the communication channels of the empire with false messages in order to slow down and confuse the empire things would end up breaking apart completely.

But if it was a captive instead of a death then they would be focused on recovering the hostage. They would of course direct a vast amount of resources at any efforts to recover the captive but they would inevitably do so in a far more measured way. They would be unwilling to risk destroying a lead to her rescue and would likely be much more methodical assuming they couldn't track her right away. The Cisharni had already displayed some impressive tracking capabilities. In addition if they showed they had the capability to capture her to the Cisharni it would be less of a shock if they were to kill one in the future and would provoke less of an irrational response.

As he watched his fellow Sindari try and take her alive he was reminded how he had never explained any of this to any of them. Still the idea of capturing one was alluring, he could learn so much. It was a poor schemer who couldn't adapt and change his plans. With a sigh he aided his comrades attempts to subdue her summoning illusions of rebel warriors and warriors dressed like Flak all trying to fight her, occasionally shuffling around who looked like what to the Spy to keep her confused. He also used mind magic to make her tell him who she was and why she was here. It wouldn't work of course but fighting his attempts would be distracting. And in the event that it looked like she was going to escape or kill one of the Sindari he would summon rats to swarm over her, clawing, biting and burrowing. He preferred not to use his ability that way but he was ruthless and would do what ever he felt he needed to.

Focus, Ammon. We must be right, not merely victorious. If we win through such methods, we will be no better than the Cisharni...

Let me help you with your mind tricks, we can distract her long enough that Flak can capture her.

Use Jerick's mind and his abilities to further strengthen my telepathic attack.

Eltirian. If you refer to the planned sacrifice of the troops in the gemlock brigades understand that they are tracked by the enemy already and if we capture or kill this spy the increased pressure from Atlantis makes their deaths certain anyway. If you refer to my willingness to use my rats in a rather horrible manner then I say that morality is a luxury I am happy to partake in when we can afford it. We lost Acter, I'm not losing another Sindari if I can stop it. But never mind we can discuss that later. I need to focus after all.

Ammon allows Eltirian to channel through his mind

It was the height of night, wind eerily silent, new moon hanging directly overhead, when the wolves smelt it. The stench of death. At the bottom of a ravine, water running gently by, surrounded by endless foliage and the high and unforgiving bulk of scots pine. No animal would approach, besides those so empowered by Rigel. Death hung so thick in the air as to make the very world seem dead, and yet the man smiled. Diminutive, huddled over a boulder, blood flowing slowly down the stream, crippled beyond repair, and happy. A man of no regrets, no remorse, and no fear. A man of potential.

Rigel knelt over the man, speaking a tongue he knew not, yet could understand nonetheless.As he spoke, smoke curled from his mouth, billowing over his dying form, flowing through the wounds, orifices and very pores on his skin. Darkness seemed to seep and fester in the man, though a man he was no longer. "Awaken brother," he whispered "and live your life to it's fullest."

Something snapped. Maybe the world itself protested, maybe death was such a part of this mans being that living created an internal dissonance. Whatever it was, as his eyes opened once more, his face seemed to shrink, bones becoming visible, flesh becoming gaunt, and pulled taut. And for all the man smiled, an offputting gesture with far too much teeth, the world seemed just that much darker, more fearsome, less hopeful. And as the very dead started to stir in unrest, Rigel walked away, his wolves dissipating in the same smoke that carved this new being into existence.

---

"Death apparently does not become me this day. But I may yet become death. Hello all, my name is Serenion. But I think Mortis a much more fitting moniker. I hope all goes well?"

Spoiler: Mortis (click to show/hide)

1 Year travel
2 years finding a wife and producing a child
4 years gaining a cult (240 members, 6 worshipper points. 1 on bind the will improvement, 3 on domain improvement, 1 on intelligence, 1 on willpower)
3 years developing my bone crafting skill
+1*2 intelligence
7 years learning death magic + finding elephant graveyard
1 year imbuing wife
2 years teaching wife

The branches around him creaked, and almost malevolent and sinister sound to anyone else. But this was the world to him. For better or worse.

The people here referred to the land as Rus, a land of snow, forest and wild animals. The people here were hardy, and for all the horror his very presence brought, the grim hunters and stalwart warriors seemed to mind little. A land like this bred a resistance to the evil of the world. A trait he'd one day like to cultivate. Still, for all he was welcomed into homes and told of as a scary tale to keep children safe, he couldn't linger. Mortis knew his efforts must lie somewhere warmer, and much more in danger.
------
The sun bore down an almost constant haze, sand glimmering and glittering like infernal gold, the final ire of many a dead man. The rolling dunes, cutting winds, and biting glare of a passing bird seemed ever present. An aching reminder of his almost perpetual curse. Bleak, desolate, harsh and unyielding. An irony most fitting for a man who's predominant personality could be described in exact opposite terms. And very soon, with the same smile lingering, the day turned to night. And onward he walked, ever looking forward, ever seeing the future.

Something caught Mortis' gaze as he wandered, now nearing the bottom of the Sahara. The metallic glint and shimmer of a dagger catching the sun, as well as what appeared to be a leather glove stuck out of the sand. Closer inspection lead to a much more disturbing and gruesome sight, at least to anyone else's eyes. Not a glove, but a hand, baked in the sun and suffocated by the golden dusted tomb around him. Dessicated, tanned, and stiff to the touch. Some would retch, others shield their eyes. Mortis just made a mental note, took the hand, and continued south.
------

The congolese jungles were a close approximation to hell. Hot and humid almost beyond bare-able, even to the immortal. Dense and tough foliage, an array of poisonous and predatory creatures, a vast array of distracting and confusing noises. All of this was made worse by Mortis' unnatural presence, making the noises more menacing, the creatures seemingly more agitated, the path unusually winding, and even the constant pools of water seeming to reflect unseen horrors at their edge. A struggle, plain and simple, for anyone. The journey was not pleasant, easy, or one he wished to go on again. But the smile remained, thinking of what layed past the leafy horrors around him.
------

Spoiler: Mortis (click to show/hide)

THE CAT AND THE RAT (AND TELEPORTING)

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

A flash of light from behind Serena caused her to jump. Two men stood behind her, glowing with power. Sindari, her panicked mind supplied. Multiple of them in the same place, and they can teleport. Serena quickly relayed this to the Inquisitor. Hopefully they could get reinforcements to save her in time. The two Sindari readied themselves, the warrior's sword already a blur. The Rat Prince stood where he was, staring at her intently. She felt slightly off balance by this, but she was trained by the best.

The grizzled Sindari swung out with his sword, and the assassin dodged under his blow and lunged for his heart, only to see him disappear before her blades. His ally began to charge, when she felt something smash into the back of her head, and then darkness.

The Inquisitor smiled. He wasn’t sure if the Rat Prince was Sindari. Now, he would have him, and two more to boot. Of course it was a shame about Serena, she was an excellent agent. He supposed that avenging her death would have to do. He looked towards his death guard.They had numerous teams ready to hot drop in dangerous situations to support agents. They had a teleporter equipped with enchanted items to increase the capacity and quickness of the charge. He had this one prepping, and this kill team was ready to go. He checked over his spear and joined the circle. He felt the familiar lurch as they disappeared into the air.

The Sindari stood around the body of the assassin. The fight was over very quickly, lasting less than a quarter of a minute. Perhaps they breathed a sigh of relief. A minute later, the Inquisitor’s kill team materialized near where Serena was knocked out.
What do the Sindari present do?

This is about the time that Octavian shows off his "Burning Key" trick that Acter had developed.

He had a fuse, set to burn completely in 45 seconds when lit from one side. This was enchanted as the Key to Adjilia.

He set fire to the fuse - from both ends, to increase the speed - and opened the portal. This would allow everyone through - including the captured probably-Cisharni, and excluding himself. He will be using the wind gem to turn into wind and escape into the countryside, gaining at least a 10 minute head start in which to teleport to a safe location, where he will make a second teleport to another safe location, and one more besides to be safe from detection. These safe locations will be in the wilderness, except for the third, which will be to America. Once there, a new Key will be made, to allow the others out.

By the time the Inquisitor had arrived, all the Sindari would be gone, safe in Adjilia, the only trace of them being a pile of perfectly mundane ash.

"SHIT"

Grab the spy and then get into the portal to Adjilia, NOW

Providing mental overwatch had its benefits. For instance, when the merest thought of "Inquisitor" and "Location" crossed the enemy's mind, Eltirian worried a bit.

GET OUT NOW! GET MOVING!

Just a bit of panic, you understand.

Why, oh why, do they ALWAYS screw things up?

THE CODEX

Spoiler: Rolls (click to show/hide)

Rigel's arrow slammed into the beast’s leg, causing it to howl in pain and anger. Zakoss concentrated, and a fiery explosion enveloped the beast. The two Sindari waited as the fire burned, Rigel notched another arrow and Zakoss began to prepare another spell.
As smoke billowed, the beast lunged forward at Rigel. Rigel snapped a shot off into the beast's chest, but it was undeterred. Black power coursing through its body, it picked Rigel up and slammed him down. Rigel heard bones snap. It raised a fist to finish him off.
What do they do?

Turn into smoke and avoid the fist.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

'This Parasite is stronger than the others.'

'I am going to do something a bit crazy.'

'Yes, this might work.'

With the gathered energy Zakoss focuses the flame around his gauntlet claw. The flames start to flicker, dancing on his gauntlet and claw. Zakoss rushes at the beast aiming for the neck. On the spiritual end; Io has a hold of the fire, being inside the gauntlet-claw, he channels his own might through it; almost as if he was making the strike.

Ideally Zakoss, by pushing his claw into the beasts neck, is trying allow a more direct release of fire through his claw's fingers, allowing the flames to erupt inside the beast, and to burn any possible vital organs from the inside out.

THE CAT AND THE RAT (AND TELEPORTING)
"Black beak contingency," Ammon hissed quietly to the grizzled warrior he had first sought out before disappearing into the portal with the rest of the Sindari, trusting to Octavian to escape safely.

The black beak contingency was a protocol he had devised recently where the rebels would scatter and reorganise at several different locations. Each group reassembling wouldn't know the details of the other groups. Except for the gemlock brigades who would reassemble in what at first glance appeared to be a defendable valley with impressive cliffs. But Ammon had found out from the local rebels that the cliff face was unstable so he had sent men in secret, equipped with pickaxes and stoneworking tools to engineer a landslide should the enemy come to crush the very trackable gemlock brigades. The gemlock troops had orders to hold to the last man and there was a very real danger that some or most would be caught in the landslide should it happen. It was regrettable but the gemlock brigades were exposed and almost guaranteed to die anyway. Ammon hoped he'd still be able to assassinate or have assassinated some of the enemies important generals in order to damage enemy unit cohesion and make them more likely to fall for his ploys.

It was all up to Octavian now.

THE CAT AND THE RAT (AND TELEPORTING)

The Inquisitor and his team landed in a flash of light in a crowd of armed soldiers. Shouts of panic and fear were quickly squashed as the they were cut down. Octavian picked up his key, and moved to his belt where he kept the wind gem. A warrior, armored in black plate and moving with speed, cut down 2 defenders and leapt at Octavian. He dodged out of the way, sent the warrior sprawling with a kick, but not before a hasty swing cut his side. Painful, but not debilitating.

He ran through the camp, as did other rebels, some running to the fighting, others running away, shouting “Black beak, black beak!” Octavian saw two other teleportation flashes on the ridges around the camp. He looked behind. A hooded figure ran after him, spear a blur cutting down those who were in his path. He was armored in black plate, flowing robe around him. His eyes blazed fiercely at him, and Octavian recognized his a Cisharni. Octavian’s face determined, he held the wind gem and activated it.

   The Inquisitor stopped as the Sindari’s body turned into a gust of wind that blew to the east. It was fast, faster than he could run at any rate. The wind would be invisible to mundane eyes, but to his the wind glowed with power. He cried out in anger, and for a time lost himself to the rage.

When he came back to himself, his kill team surrounded him. They were some of the best the Empire produced, volunteers of some of the best warrior corps. Bodies lay around them.

“Serena?” The Inquisitor asked them wearily. He always seemed to tire after a bloodbath.

Aetes shook his head. concealed beneath a black armored helm. “There was no trace of her, my lord. Not even a body.”

“Survivors of the camp?”

“They are being interrogated now, sir.”

The Inquisitor nodded. It was time to end this rebellion. The Secondborn would be interested, however, in the windform that the Sindari had used. Perhaps a counter could be developed. Though the Secondborn was the one who pushed the most for reconciliation or terms with the Sindari. He argued that the world was big enough for the both of them to coexist peacefully. Hopefully his belief wouldn’t interfere with developing a way to stop the Sindari from fleeing again.

   He stood to his feet from the weather stump he sat on. The night was beginning to give way to the dawn. He stretched his shoulders and made his way over to the prisoners. Perhaps he could learn something.

   The Sindari have captured Serena, and can interrogate her for information. What do you ask her?

END OF EVENT

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

The beast slammed his fist down where Rigel lay, only to be surprised to see the body turn into flowing smoke that curled around his body. Zakoss utilized this distraction and leapt on the beast, and tried to stab his fingers into its throat. It growled in irritation, and grabbed Zakoss in a giant hand, and threw him into the wall of the cliff. Zakoss slammed into the wall, snow falling around him. He blacked out and fell. His body tumbled down the cliff.
What does Rigel do?

THE GREAT SPIRIT
The Spirit of Harmony is called upon by the conclave Amelia had brought together. A glowing form took shape in their center, and overwhelming peace flowed out from her. Several shamans collapsed, put to sleep from the spirit's power. The Spirit turned and focused on Amelia

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)

Amelia is able to withstand the intense pressure, the pressure to sleep, to give in. A few shamans lent her mental strength, and kept her on her feet even as they fell unconscious themselves.
“What… do you… ask of… me?”
What does Amelia do?

When finally the assassin was restrained somewhere everyone else was happy with and awake Ammon requested a few moments alone with the prisoner.

Ammon slipped carefully into the room where the assassin was being held and began pacing about. His face was a mask of worry, he fidgeted as he paced slowly on his battered crutch. He looked every bit a young child way out of his depth. "He wants me to be his successor but he doesn't tell me a damn thing," he murmured to himself before turning his attention to the captive. He knelt down in front of her, his movements involving his crippled leg slow and stiff, an expression of desperate hope covered his face. "What in all the hells is going on? I'm asking you because I think you might know, you were sent to kill me after all and no else I ask has given me a straight answer. Why can the inquisitor teleport? I thought the whole Cisharni religion thing was just an attempt to keep order, I thought that it wasn't real! How does that even work? What even are the powers of the Cisharni? What the hell is a Sindari? And why the hell are we working with them now? What are their powers?"

He sighed wearily to himself "You know I think I was better off as a street urchin picking pockets, before all of this talk of taking on the mantle of the Rat Prince, before all the false promises gold and power. I'm starting to think I'm just supposed to be a piece of bait. Just another line of defence for that paranoid bloody rat in human shape. Sent around to introduce myself as him so he could sit safely wallowing in his own paranoia," he sighed again "I was a hungry street kid and I thought I could get gold, influence and food by doing what he said. At least I got fed. But my priorities shifted as I saw how bad things were getting and as I learnt more than a simple peasant kid is supposed to. Yet they still cut me out. I did my best I really did, I tried to save lives but each time everything would just go horribly wrong. So please, what is it that is actually going on? Who are you and what are you fighting for?"

Ammon was an extremely calculating individual. He recognised that torture was useless and that most information they asked for could be a clear indicator of what the Sindari knew and didn't know. He also knew that by positioning himself as a supposed ill-informed sidelined member of the group he could make it appear as if he was someone who could be turned to her cause with some convincing. The trick to interrogation was in making the person want to tell you. Torture, threats and aggression would often fail to produce useful or accurate info.

Ammon uses deception to interrogate Serena

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

A few hours before Ammon enters "Ah finally the right room." "..." "Hmm not very talkative, that is fine I am not here to get any important information."
"..." Seemingly without taking a breath "What is your favorite colour, your preferred method of killing a person, how many people have you killed, and how do you like your meat prepared?"
Flak pauses here to give the spy time to respond

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

During the climb and fight on the mountain; Kissiae, a dryad that came along with Zakoss but refused to go up the mountain for reasons of becoming disconnected to her forest, was busying herself trying to keep communicating with the forest around her. The forest in the area told of the tale that befell the village at the base of the mountain after bringing the forest back from the trauma.

As suspected a void creature had brought devastation to the area but this was done by a hybrid. Similar to the trap tricks spiders that had plagued the area a few decades ago. This creature however had been more of an invisible infestation of what would be described as a parasite.

Becoming obviously nervous the fire blast from a few moments ago reach her ears; soon after she is informed by the forest that there is a humanoid body falling from the mountain.

By using vines to relocate to the closest area to the point of impact; Kissiae raises a cushion like plant up high into the sky.

In order to catch the falling object and then to see who was falling.

Spoiler: Applicable Stats (click to show/hide)

That had not been a terribly fun encounter.
Everyone's alive. And we caught a maybe-Cisharni. Nu-Cisharni at least.
That was true enough. Time to make something of that fact.

Octavian teleported a few times about the wilderness - making stops in the Russian forest, in Alaska, in the African deserts - before arriving in the American Great Plains, with the tribe he had recruited. He took about 5 of the tribe's warriors - both men and women - as well as six spare tents and the necessary furnishings, and brought them all to Adjilia.

In the forest that formed the floor of his pocket dimension, Octavian had the warriors set up a camp, with the still-unconscious Serena lain down in the empty sixth tent, with all her equipment and weaponry removed. The female guards that Octavian had brought removed her uniform, to be examined later, and put her in a simple robe.
The warriors were instructed of their duty: they were to watch over Serena, to both ensure the safety of the Sindari and their agents while around her, as well as to ensure that she herself is kept unharmed.

"She is a prisoner and an agent of the enemy, but she is also a strong opponent, and the daughter of of one of the god-rulers of Atlantis. She is to be treated with respect."

When Serena awoke, Octavian was there to greet her.
He remained polite and respectful at all times; it was more of a discussion than in interrogation. He greeted her with his name a handshake, and outlined her situation. He asked her who their Cisharni parent was, and informed her that he was Acter's successor. He told her where she was, and asked her what some of the Cisharni thought of him and his companions. He tried to figure out if she knew of any Cisharni that he did not, and if there were any Sindari they were as of yet unaware of.
And through it all, he tried to show her: see, we are just people. Just as the Atlanteans are, just as the Romans, just as the Egyptians, just as every person you have ever met, we are people.

But throughout it all, he never let his guard down.

Quote from: Narrator on September 16, 2017, 09:39:55 am

THE CAT AND THE RAT (AND TELEPORTING)
[...]
The Sindari have captured Serena, and can interrogate her for information. What do you ask her?

END OF EVENT

Quote from: Octavian G. on September 16, 2017, 08:28:25 pm

Everyone's alive. And we caught a maybe-Cisharni. Nu-Cisharni at least.

Spoiler: Amelia; 7th decade since Sindari creation. Possible Applicable Stats (click to show/hide)

Bring me in. I will help.

Amelia spoke at length with Octavian, before being pulled with him into the area where the Nu-Cisharni stood. She knew, through her years in communicating with the diverse peoples of her area and farther, that rapport was essential to any communication--and that interrogation only worked inasmuch as physiological limits permitted. If she would infer how a Nu-Cisharni acted by reinforced behavior, they had no need of fatigue, sleep, food, or otherwise, and this changed a lot of subtle perspectives on how the Nu-Cisharni would react to any 'mundane' interrogation techniques, not that she had any intent (or heart) to use any of them.

At length, she discussed with the other Sindari that others skilled in magic or otherwise would provide telepathic blockers, if in case somehow telepathy could extrude from a pocket dimension. She stood by Octavian in his politeness, showing sincerity just as much as she showed her own Nu-Sindari, speaking plainly and without contempt. From the early days of kindness, she also let out her perspectives, non-forcefully, from what she saw in people and the motives she presumed of her allies--she was plain in the outlook onto the Cisharni, but also ensures that the Nu-Cisharni understood her perspective. She mentioned intrigue, and confusion, at how powerful demigods could have a lacking wisdom to control instead of work with and uplift whole civilizations, and issued subtle comparisons to the Sindari; they who had pieces of a God in them, instead of being demigods, as a comparison. In the days that passed, she added her idea of what any prolonged combat with the Cisharni may do, and it would not benefit anyone if that were to be a reality, preferring the reality that was compared to the present one with them: Mutual respect, and understanding of mortality (or immortality and its potential for that matter instead), and the expanse of what could balance power, to unknown dangers ahead, alongside what else is unknown in life.

All throughout, she maintained an open disposition, but also one of vigilance. This would be her first meeting with any Cisharni.
And in the situation where she would be asked what would be done to her--she would respond honestly: She would respect her and treat her like any Sindari or Nu-Sindari. If she had any ulterior motive of being killed, Amelia would mention it would never be in her intent to do so.

Sometime a while ago in the first decade (6th decade post-Sindari creation)...

Quote from: Narrator on September 16, 2017, 09:39:55 am

THE GREAT SPIRIT
   The Spirit of Harmony is called upon by the conclave Amelia had brought together. A glowing form took shape in their center, and overwhelming peace flowed out from her. Several shamans collapsed, put to sleep from the spirit's power. The Spirit turned and focused on Amelia

Spoiler: Roll (click to show/hide)
Willpower 6 (1,5,5, 1,2,4)

Amelia is able to withstand the intense pressure, the pressure to sleep, to give in. A few shamans lent her mental strength, and kept her on her feet even as they fell unconscious themselves.
   “What… do you… ask of… me?”
What does Amelia do?

Amelia asks for guidance, aid, and wisdom to be passed to the people, alongside the spirit acting as a passive influence on the lands and the mountain underground in benefiting the people. She plans to construct a great Temple with shrines specifically made for such spirits as beacons of communication, and asks if the spirit would give her aid and blessings to do so.

Foremost, she asks for a gift of help in promoting peace in what may be war or conversations in stifling war in the future.

Spoiler: Flavor (click to show/hide)

"Guidance. Mutuality."
Amelia used spoken words at the start, to emphasize her meaning alongside permitting everyone around to listen. Those words became a bridge for her mind and telepathic powers, bestowed from Sind, and through Sind her true meanings flowed. She could feel the minds of the people around her, but not penetrate into their thoughts, and rather let them listen to her ideas at the speed of thought.

To the spirit, she spoke, but her meaning was heard by all those around her. She asked, firstly, if the spirit would acknowledge their respect--of the lands and skies, of nature around, of what the people use, and of what the people benefit from. She thanked the spirit, and the other high spirits who took care of the people and their everyday lives, and who needn't the sacrifices and gifted treasures they could offer, as they were like stewards of life and nature itself, servants of God as such.

She asked for one thing--a theme: Guidance, and mutual aid. First, she told everyone present what she had told her Nu-Sindari; her relationship with Sind. She then mentioned to the spirit, and thereby to the others around them, her plans for this underground area. It would become a home for all people, but she also wished for the spirits to partake of it in turn. She mentioned her plans using 'soul gems', beholden to spirits of great ancestors and other people--people whose civilizations did not exist anymore, because of recent war and death; these gems would become like the stars of the skies, erected on an artificial ceiling, acting as a reflection of the skies above the earth that provided them shelter--and that was merely only one use for these gems. Through jewels and other sensitive instruments, she mentioned possible communication with spirits, and of teaching the people about them. Reverence, devotion, guidance, and understanding, were the minor themes present. She mentioned plans of a temple, of where people could contemplate and seek insight, alongside her plans for educating the people of this land, letting understanding better that of shortsighted wants. She thought about learning Performance in the future, personally, to illustrate and enshrine history and memory in poems and songs that people will remember for generations to come. ((because of inspirations like these (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_New_Colossus)))

She asked for Harmony's aid, and asked what she could do to help even more. For Sind had helped her musings become vivid, and her own understanding become integral; she discussed her own immortality with the spirit, and mentioned how much potential that held. Her own reflections in life, especially those early on, as most basic needs were cast away--now unneeded--in favor of others.

-in my experience, unity needs leadership; leadership can be lonely, and people need to support each other to be effective. I do not want people to forget that they can be friends with each other. And this needs trust.

I would like wisdom to understand how to cultivate this with others, and keep a culture of trust, kindness, and understanding.

THE CODEX

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Kissiae raised up her vines, they lashed out of the forest and bound themselves to the falling. . . man it appeared to her. It crashed through the tops of the trees and hurled to the ground, vines snapping and breaking at the force of its fall, but enough held to arrest the man from smacking the floor.
The man was in bad shape. Pieces of broken bone were exposed to open air, and many gashes and bruises covered his body. Kissiae sighed at the state of her master. She would have to mend and tend to him, but with his regenerative abilities and her magic touch he would probably be fine. She caressed his face with her hand. Despite sometimes being a bit reckless, she cared for the immortal. She would have to wait to hear how he got in such a state, as it appeared that in addition to being unconscious, he dislocated his jaw. She tutted, it was going to be a lot of work bringing Zakoss back to health.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Rigel shifted between the rocks, his form solidifying from the smoke. The beast, the void energies around its body erupting violently from its wounds, stalked around the clearing. Rigel alighted on top of a boulder, standing over the beast and took aim. The beast swiveled and glared at Rigel and roared. The arrow flew straight and true, piercing through the eye into the brain. It gave a final cry and collapsed into the snow. The void energies dissipated and flowed to the mouth of the cave, forming a barrier to entry. Rigel jumped down and approached the entrance, but grimaced at the crackling energies. Suddenly the mouth collapsed, throwing snow and dust into the air. Rigel was forced back, coughing and hacking. He stared at the fallen entrance, a bit disappointed, but the pelt of the beast would perhaps make up for it.

SERENA
Under the question and light interrogation, Serena gave up little information. She told them her name, and that she was an agent for Atlantis. She did not trust the rat prince, despite his claims, though she did appear to view him as less of a threat. She escaped and roamed Adjila multiple times, but could not find a way to escape, so she made her peace with the situation. One brave, brought by Octavian, was killed when he tried to get too familiar with the prisoner. Other than that, there have been no incidents over the first year. If harsher interrogation techniques are used, or just more time spent, perhaps more information could be gained.

THE GREAT SPIRIT
Amelia felt the Spirit consider her request. “Very. . . well. . . Build me a temple. . . and I will bless the land.” The spirit dissipated into a suffusing cloud of golden light that filled the room, and hearts with wonder. The council of shamans and wise men and women agreed to unite, and prepare the land for the coming of the Great Spirit.

Eltirian would make time for one visit to the pocket dimension, coinciding with one of Amelia's. He would remain hidden, and monitor, without attacking, the mind of the spy.

If it became clear she was "broadcasting" information telepathically, he would contact the Sindari involved in the "interrogations" to keep all important details out of the conversations.

Having a mind that works at eight or so times that of a regular human is incredibly valuable, after all.

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

Decade 3 of 5
Spend one point on willpower
Spend two actions integrating the remnants of the Silver Legion into my network (wow how long ago did I promise glass I'd do that?)
Spend six actions learning about explosives, chemistry and flammable things (Come'on Greek fire)
Spend one action keeping track of enemy troop movements
Spend one action managing the rebellion(if there is any left)

-Results
(I don't actually know what skills the silver legion has or how many of them I can get)
+12 chemistry skill
Info on enemy troop movements
The rebellion continues

Decade 4 of 5
Spend one point on agility(x2)
Spend two actions attempting to invent Greek fire
Spend two actions improving knife fighting
Spend two actions on acrobatics
Spend two actions laying false trails for the Inquisitor
Spend one action keeping track of enemy troop movements
Spend one action managing the rebellion

-Results
Greek Fire?
+4 knife fighting
+3 acrobatics
Info on enemy troop movements
The rebellion continues
Inquisitor distracted?

Decade 5 of 5
Spend one point on intelligence(x2)
Spend three actions on Illusion
Spend five actions investigating Egypt and the activities of the Pharaoh, any temple building etc
Spend one action keeping track of enemy troop movements
Spend one action managing the rebellion

-Results
+6 illusion
Lots of info on the Pharaoh, what he's doing, what temples he's building and anything wrong with them
Info on enemy troop movements
The rebellion continues

(No fluff this time)

Spoiler: Character Sheet (click to show/hide)

((I've written things to be carried over from the first two turns (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=165151.msg7552036#msg7552036) I did, alongside adding in codybob/Flak's construction (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=165151.msg7550398#msg7550398)
Also I fixed minor notes in my spoiler because we're not actually in the 11th century-ish period. We're actually in the BC Era :V))
3rd out of 5 decades

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 5th turn (half century turn). 70 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

Quote from: Basic Details

Name: Amelia
Alias: The Builder
Appearance: Amelia will always appear as a young woman of varying sturdy build, with a light brown complexion, dark colored hair, and golden hued irises.
[In the 70th decade, she reappears as a young woman, having discarded the visage of age since her travel from overseas]
Class: Bandorin
Abilities:
+ Alchemy | This skill enables transmutation of material to other materials; as with all god-given skills, transmuted items may be sensed as magical.
+ Artificer | (Amelia may create items that provide bonuses to attributes over time, or imbue items that will aid in certain tasks, such as providing the ability to sense Cisharni for example as a high note; basically this is a trait of a general craftsman who may make items herself or templates for items)

Attributes:
Strength*:2
Agility:2
Intelligence*:10
Willpower*:8
Perception:2
Presence:2

Influence: 0
Followers (Not including Family/Worshippers): 380
Worshipers/Power: 1; +1

Quote from: Personal Connections

Family: 1
> Tala; Wife. Nu-Sindari (6/6)

Quote from: Wealth/Assets

1 Trade/Provision Company, focused into Agriculture and Basic Provision:
> Trading at a profit of +4 gold per year; set to reinvest back per year. Final profits computed are rounded down, to account for minor occurrences that diminish profit, or as the extra gold below decimal pertain to aiding the traders/local welfare.

Referencial note (http://www.wolframalpha.com/widgets/view.jsp?id=50c24190e0f0e4e78b48639b6b84771e).
= For the purpose of income of 10% invested back into the system per year, equate the following: for decade turns; start value = 0, end value = 9; sequence = Current Profit Value * (1.1^n) [eg my current "+4" = 4 * (1.1^n)]

Quote from: Skills

Engineering: 15 [Legendary+] Mining: 13 [Legendary] Enchanting: 13 [Legendary] Persuasion: 13 [Legendary] Administration: 11 [Expert] Teaching: 10 **Bending: 5 **This is a combat skill, 'Bending' is a mixture of unarmed/martial arts/magic

Quote from: Base

Aboveground
> A developing town, alongside terraced farmland exists on a mountain plateau, where the entrance to the underground base starts. The start of a caravan/trading area is also present, flourishing into a trading company with storage buildings being present for tools, produce, and other materials.
> A network of roads connect the local area together, winding from the most stable of areas on the mountain range to both the valleys and other locations, cutting down travel time and permitting easier movement of trade, acting as a landmark in itself for travelers and the local populace.
Underground
> The underground is a natural, hollowed cavern. Thoroughly mapped out, fault lines and danger zones are well-known due to Amelia's Bandorin insight--it can currently hold 100 people in full comfort to their needs, with graceful decorations and multiple facilities providing various amenities akin to wealthy above-ground structures and service areas. Recent adjustments enable both enchantment and engineering at a wider scale, making larger structures or expansion to be safely done.

Quote from: Other Notes

> The region my character is in, in our history is Ifugao (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ifugao#History). It is surrounded by, or has proximity to 4 kingdoms spanning the whole landmass, excluding that of the mountains. All Kings are neutral in disposition to me, other than the Eastern one--a powerful King named Koan.

***This world is of a similar, but different timeline than our own, having roots with physical and understandable magic as part of its physics and natural laws; one major indicator is the differing tech levels that equal an advance of society despite it being the relative BC period. (Map (12th century) (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/East-Hem_1200ad.jpg))

Quote from: To Carry over

1st Decade
> Examining that one Gemlock rifle, dispelling its enchantments or destroying it (maybe saving its soul gem), and otherwise making it either safe for use, or memorized its use and function in discreet detail. Also rendering it gone from the Cisharni.
> Chief event(?) being triggered as per Turn 5 update

2nd Decade
> Aiding Masamune (in his earlier post) in making those invisi-amulets and otherwise, basing the former on an engineering prototype of a larger scale object in projecting/hiding the Sindari magic/glow or its residual magic from either Cisharni. Using Artificer skill, either making it soul-bound to the wearer, or adding a stat bonus to those who equip it (preferably WILL)
> Engineering spent to make the prototypes for the smallest of crafts (ie invisi-amulets)
> Travel back home, alongside Nu-Sindari and all other followers on my part.
Quote from: codybob/Flak's second decade
spend nine years helping out at Amelia's mountain base

In the 70th year since Sindari creation

Third Decade (3 out of 5 of this turn)

Spoiler: Third decade expectations/summary (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Flavor (click to show/hide)

It had been two decades since civilizations blended, and much benefits were had--fast food, construction techniques, cultural advances, and the introduction of latin and its branching languages (adding to the various dialects and languages spoken), but also societal changes in which many problems were settled due to the administration. The society was considerably very efficient, though how this would remain was something on Amelia's mind. She had spent her time in recollection and meditation, using the template of the present to predict the future, and found a lot of complexity even in planning it by herself. It was during time like these when her Nu-Sindari approached her as she was meditating, adding to her insight. She had planned to set this portion of the underground as a meditation area akin to what she had done with Masamune in the north (as the location acted as an overlook onto the sea and land below, for its location near a precipice of rock jutting from under an overhanging ledge; the ledge acted as protection from most of the elements, while providing a funnel for air to sound off hollow tones).

Tala, the name of the Nu-Sindari, mentioned of what she had gleaned from the years spent with the Romans and the local people. With Amelia, they both took on themselves to stay true to their home culture, and only changed appearance as was fit with local customs (as immortality was new and not particularly *emphasized (http://www.stuartxchange.com/Cordillera.html) within (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethnicities_of_the_Philippine_Cordilleras) the (https://books.google.com.ph/books?id=RgUmDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA118&lpg=PA118&dq&source=bl&ots=UEfKjooHUJ&sig=5L3Izcl6_-REohDrtsDgkI35-xs&hl=en&sa=X&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false) local (http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/scitech/science/317752/ancient-ifugao-culture-more-sophisticated-than-previously-thought/story/) culture (https://earthpopstudios.com/tag/ancient-music-of-the-philippines/)). Before they had returned to their home, Tala took upon herself to remind of the importances of character (culture) given the memory loss she had mentioned decades back. These were but one of many topics brought into conversation.
^{* Sadly I couldn't find a more historical context due to the difficulties since the 15th century, alongside records being orally passed, so the modern difference is 'the Cordilleras got separated because the Spanish and Americans did it'. Also I still dislike the conquistadores in a humorous way because dislike :I but obviously not discounting the positives.
** Some links still have minor errors in information, or typographical ones.}

Denoting their adventures and accomplishments with Masamune, Tala brokered the notion of the local trade--a topic she began to master after learning in depth with both Roman and local 'engineers' (the man was named "Gilles", to note). Drawing upon borrowed terms like the Sigma of Greek origin, the time of the current day was spent on how to better the local trade, with every year's income being invested (and minor gains for covering losses or aiding provision) and then added once more. Other topics included the futility in reflection of what reports came of the Cisharni Empire: while they ruled, it was hierarchical, and with humility, Amelia accepted Tala's words that she was following the same path, in not training and spreading her knowledge directly onto others while rather just building accommodations and leaving transcripts. These and many other minor topics were part of the 'small talk' that reinforced Amelia's relationship with Tala over the years, either in meditation or in other matters.

Otherwise, upon arriving home, Amelia found her brother being of great help since his conversation in telepathy--Flak mentioned deepening the inways of progress and technology in utilizing his strength for construction efforts; he had created a full network of roads, alongside providing initial hauling for most materials in order to do such in such little a time. His presence inspired the local people, especially the men, healers, and the warriors, who were comparing his open display of skill and strength to great powers. This was a core point of Tala's notes--the more familiar people would become, the more curious their own (Sindari) culture may impede them. Amelia thanked Flak for all he did, and allowed him a specific area that would cater to the legendary swordsman's needs. He had brought much material to the mountain home, and provided much leverage in easing the lives of the people.

Her knowledge enriched by the many events and experiences she had gone through--from the making of a majestic castle with Masamune, to the contact of great spirits, from tutelaries to ancestral kin, Amelia returned home with the rest of those who had accompanied her, determined to use the foothold she had to improving the livelihoods of all those around her. With the cosmetic look of age being changed over the course of the travel, she and Tala (her wife and Nu-Sindari) were reintroduced to those who had known them before they sailed across the seas, with the help of their companions who had spent time with them.

She had spent the 7th decade since the origin of the Sindari intertwined in numerous tasks, with years of effort diluted into months of focus and coordination.

> 1 year focus, in Performance.
> 3 years of applying Engineering/Enchanting/Mining to construct, mould, define, and allocate/refine specified areas within the underground for the prospective/potential plans for being a base for the Sindari, with minor additions specifically being a teleportation network (learned partially with the aid of the Mecuritia caste) with Masamune's castle, alongside making larger and more defined/refined applications of Cisharni-invisibility/inhibition to their powers, especially scrying or observation by Cisharni or their children/converts (diverting or misleading). This would also cover the utility of technologies, (eg rice mortar) being resourceful with the surroundings, and generally improving the state of affairs locally. This includes the usage of soul gems, and implementation of its use in the underground to mimic a nigh-perfect and consistent replica of the skies above, alongside housing the souls of both local ancestors, and the refugee dead. These years would also include minor details, like monuments or memorials to the civilizations lost to the Cisharni, making of quarters and living area for people in the Underground, and creating schematics for standardization and quality assurance for future engineers and other professionals. The Temple to the Spirits and the plethora of others, summarized into a pantheistic temple with focus on respect, is also a construction aided and focused on.
> 3 years spending Teaching, using her broad array of skills (from Bending to Administration to all others) in making a system for the populace--both in keeping morale and productivity high, and ensuring that skills and quality remain on the same high level. Diversifying skills and organizing people, expanding on apprenticeship and capitalizing on texts, writing, and its potentials coming from the refugees of Rome. Changing the social hierarchy from reliance on a single ruler to a more diverse and stratified distribution of responsibility and cultural/social conservatism.
> 2 years focusing on the Scholar skill, using most of the profits to create a starting area for specialized education. (alongside funding her travels across the seas into other scholastic studies, carrying on into the 8th decade). This causes the profit margin to be only +40, with the other +23 being invested back, as this all occurs at the latter part of the decade.
> 1 year using that skill (Scholar) in indirectly attracting fleeing scholars from the Cisharni advance, but also gathering knowledge for storage and note keeping.

Tala's plans, and insight from meditation with Sind, were revolutionary (at least in her perspective they were), and added to the direction planned for the long-run. She ensured that communication was consistent, alongside implementing a system that would not rely on sole individuals within positions of authority but rather skills and merit, through education and the pursuit of knowledge. Over time, it would be adapted into the culture of learning, and the approach to the sciences and thought or thinking, which in turn affected perception especially of the local population, influencing a sense of flexibility. As an unintended side effect, this flexibility meant a faster adaptation to the quick changes Amelia was primarily introducing with her plans and efforts, but that also meant notice from the neighboring lowland Kings who in her opinion were quite traditional.

In the 80th year since Sindari creation

Fourth Decade (4 out of 5 of this turn)

Spoiler: Fourth decade expectations/summary (click to show/hide)

Amelia had spent the 8th decade since the origin of the Sindari intertwined in fortifying the aboveground area of her home, alongside ensuring that she would be prepared for the future--both in coordination with her people and that of others, and that her expertise would not be compressed only in those akin to herself, that it would be shared in local texts spread only in the locality. Years of effort were diluted into months of focus and coordination.
> 2 years on Scholar, finalizing her own studies alongside finishing the local academy, partly underground and partly aboveground, with the structure itself becoming part of the entrance to the underground, while acting as a center of knowledge and learning, protected by enchantments and magic, as well as providing a spectacular view, towering akin to a thin structure overlooking the lands.
> 2 years focused on Performance.
> 2 years focused on Doctoring.
> 2 years focused on Bending.
> 2 years spending Teaching/Administration/Persuasion in application of benefiting the local people, pacifying problems, and otherwise generally developing the state of life AND the connection of the existence of the Sindari via understanding (and writing this all down for ease of distribution, but also teaching of followers and otherwise, mayhap even gaining worshippers due to her acts, even if this was not her focus); these included broadening the local Temple in connection with the other Sindari--alongside using her underground base to provide as a refuge for followers of her Sindari brethren.

She answered queries she expected (even if unsaid) by her Sindari brothers, on why she was focusing on skills that were not particularly of utilitarian detail, and noted that every skill had its contextual purpose; Performance, for example, was a key component of the culture of her people--as an example being the dance tradition, deeply rooted in the people's day-to-day life, keeping the essence and spirit, and avoiding adulteration which she believed was present in the influence of immortality upon the populace of mortals; that given their span of time and subtle differences of exponential skills and cognitive processes, would erode the importance of mortality and in its core ideal, forget Sind's basic principles of why they had created the sentient peoples. To the locals, their dances, instruments, and cultural rites were sacred, and had its context in itself--causing insult if appropriated for other measures; therein in her own time, as she shared with Tala and through telepathy with the rest, these skills outside of their efforts 'against the Cisharni' would have a purpose of its own, in application in a world rife with diversity and change, and which thrived on adaptation and evolution.

In the 90th year since Sindari creation

Fifth Decade (5 out of 5 of this turn)

Spoiler: Fifth decade expectations/summary (click to show/hide)

With the construction of many buildings alongside accommodation in the previous decades, Amelia noted how the local populace were strained at times before in keeping up with such rapid development. There were many a time where she had to personally intercede due to conflicts of adaptability, but previous actions had ensured that this was easily handled--even now involving locals aiding in the integration of new developments and starting up their own professions and trades. Scribes and books were popular, and local writers were flourishing through poetry and other arts of the time. Methods in aiding these activities were improved, from refining techniques in processing raw material into finished goods, to refining the Underground in meeting the needs of hundreds of people and its own unique problems of an underground society. Sewage systems and water delivery methods, inducted decades earlier as a standard for living, were improved and studied alongside fertility of the lands, and even revered topics such as the connection of the spirits with the lands were taken into consideration.

> 3 years spent on Scholarly research of MAGIC in general, and rather a focus on it, to what its capabilities were. What were the defining general schools one could focus in, and how did it interact with mortals.
> 4 years focused on Bending
> (2 years spent) 1 year both in applying Doctor/Performance, using Engineering/Teaching as a subskill, in creating facilities, specialized toolsets, and other accommodations for the population, but also as a facility for both the Sindari quarters at base, and in improving the teaching of how these can be applied in local/regional practices.

Spoiler: Flavor (click to show/hide)

> 1 year {Possible: Persuasion/Administration/Teaching?} focused into inconspicuously contacting, via very old notes from Acter, the 'immortals' in China.

It was a time of thriving progress, but Amelia worried how far the Cisharni could act in 30 years worth of time, especially considering the actions of her brethren. It was at the last year before a century's worth for the Sindari, did she decide to act upon something nudging and pressing her thoughts ever since she had felt her first loss: Contacting China, and communicating with their Dragon Emperor.

THORONDIR 5 DECADE TURN

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

1st decade
Spend 3 years making golems to guard inside my pocket dimension
Spend 1 year studying golemancy
Spend 5 more years making golems to defend the castle

2nd decade
Spend 7 years learning magical healing..
Spend 3 years starting a cult of sindar amongst the people in the nearest town, and teaching my disciples the ways of potion and medicine making to improve their living conditions. Also the cult supports the empress.

3rd decade
Spend 3 years starting a family in the town.
Spend 7 years focusing on the cult, growing it larger.

4th decade
Spend one year collecting soul gems for Tiruin.
Spend 9 years studying potions and elixirs

5th decade
Spend 3 years studying golemancy
Spend 7 years studying Enchanting

Results:

   17 Golemancy
   13 Enchantment
   As many soul gems as Tir needs
   14 Healing
   15 Potion making

   Family:

   Spouse:
      28 Years old (Now 55)
      Kita
      Female
   Child 1:
      27 Years old
      Akihiko
      Male
   Child 2:
      26 Years old
      Harumi
      Female

   Cult:
      300 Followers
      10 of which are LV 10 Potion Making (my inner circle)
      +2 to Agility
      +1 to Presence

   Other:
      +2(4) to Intelligence
      +2(4) to Willpower
      +1 to Agility

   Flavor and things:
   Teleported back into the castle at heian kyo

   Details on addition to castle:
   Upon arriving at Heian Kyo, Thorondir - Ehnadren, spent a while surveying the construction. Indeed, the castle itself was formidable, and the magic within it was powerful. However, the castle lacked something. It felt dull.
   Thorondir knew how to fix this.
   He went into the inner sanctum of the castle. Following traces of magic, which led into a labyrinth below the surface. He spent many hours finding a suitable location, but eventually a dull, empty room was found.
   It was time to spruce things up.
   Thorondir worked for many days and nights, only leaving to collect soul gems and various other resources. Eventually, the work was complete. Feeling the floating centrepiece of the room - A huge soul gem inscribed with rooms, he could hear his creation calculating. He could hear Heian Kyo thinking.

AFTER ASCENSION 90-110
THE PLAINS PEOPLE
   The tribes of the plains, followers of the great buffalo herds, were greatly pleased with their gift of horses. Over the years they multiplied their herd, and the warriors who could ride them. The 7 chieftains who followed Octavian formed a confederacy, and through diplomacy or conquest, the Sind Confederacy took shape. A young brave named Ahote quickly risen to prominence due to his skill at riding a horse, and his quick mind. He conquered many tribes over 10 years. He worshipped the Spirits of the plains, not the Sindari, though he allowed the shamans to preach for the Sindari. Ahote respects Octavian, but still loves his traditions, and will not worship the Sindari unless forced to.

   The Sind Confederation is strong, having near 200 horseback warriors, and 5,000 braves ready for battle. 60,000 men, women and children call the confederation home, though only 2,000 more worshippers of Sindari were gained.

   The Tribes in the south, known as Aoraki, are becoming hostile to the Sind Confederation. They are powerful, and skirmishes are beginning to break out between the two groups. The Aoraki are rumored to be supported by a people even further south than they are, but it is only rumor.

JAPAN
   The Empress Fuuri Noriko waged a war of unification across Japan. It was not always bloody. She was smart, and graceful, many lords bowed before her and pledged allegiance. Some she trusted, others were told to commit seppuku so that others more trustworthy were given positions of power. A few had to brought to battle, and Noriko proved to be capable there as well, especially with her mysterious advisors. Once the battles were won, she returned to Heian-kyō.

   Heian-kyō! A finer fortress was not seen before! It would dazzle the hearts and eyes of man, and stood as a testament to the strength of Noriko;s reign. Three walls it boasted, strong and tall, thick and made to resist any attack launched at it. Great Ballista swiveled at the tops of the guard towers. Inside, it reflected the Empress’s majesty, with a beautiful courtyard that amazed people with light and magic. The Empress and her staff were surely the most informed people on the hemisphere, with an magical table that could quickly be updated with new information, fed from an information room that kept itself clean and organized. The castle also served as a great workshop, hosting a great forge which could produce hundreds of pieces of armor and weapons Beneath the castle sat miles and miles of tunnels, so much that any who wandered in there unprepared could get lost for years. The guard ran regular patrols to make sure that didn’t happen. Her guard became famous through the land for their bravery and skill. Imperial Samurai wore little adornment except for the Empress’s crest, and only the best samurai were chosen to guard the Empress herself.

   The Empress soon married, a handsome man Kaito, an unknown. Some whispered of subtle magics that influenced her mind into marrying him. But the man was a great shipbuilder, and with Royal resources a fine Imperial navy took shape. The Imperial family grew as well, gaining 4 children.

   Namiko, the oldest (1 /6 Sindari), had a beautiful soul, and was famed for her love of arts. However, she had none of her mother’s fierce intelligence. Her twin Akemi (⅙) had none of those desired qualities, and was known to be somewhat cruel. The secondborn male, Hideaki (3/6) was a brave warrior, skilled with blade and bow. He loved the sea, and was known to take adventures out to explore with trusted friends. Mitsu (2/6) was a headstrong lady, though extremely beautiful, she like to toy with her many suitors. Takeshi (1 /6) was known for being kind and compassionate, and loved to learn from Amelia whenever she was in Japan.

   Japan was secure, for the moment. Korean pirates had long raided Japan’s coast, and though the navy was strong, the pirates could keep rebuilding their fleets in their harbors. The Empress declared that they would invade Korea, and bring it under their dominion. The Chinese were distracted by the threat from Atlantis, so now would be the time to strike. China had also sent emissaries to the Empress, bringing fine gifts and begging for aid. They also approached the Sindari, and asked for forgiveness. Prince Fireheart was dead, slain in battle, and all enmity for the Sindari was forgotten.

   The Empress desired to help, but did not wish to abandon her conquest of Korea. She turned to the Sindari, asking how many men should she send to the Chinese. The Empress could call upon 75,000 warriors in her empire of near 700,000, of which 20,000 worshipped the Sindari.

ATLANTIS:
   Rome was devastated. The city itself was a mere shadow of its former self, the streets quiet and the temples torn down, statues of Cisharn standing in their places. The countryside was empty, with armed patrols seizing travelers and murdering them. There was no rebellion left, as those willing to resist were all dead. Many towns and minor cities were destroyed. The legions were sequestered, and thrown headlong into battle wherever they were. Their loyalty could no longer be trusted, and thus were sent to kill and die against the enemies of Atlantis. Greece became favored by Atlantis, and it flourished. Colonies of Greece popped up on the eastern coast of Italy.

   Rebellion was treated even harsher, starting 30 years ago. Any sign of dissent would be quickly slapped down, and any involved killed or imprisoned. Taxes and levies rose, and armies streamed north, south, and east, conquering broad swathes of territory, and trains of loot and slaves made their way back to the capital. India fell quickly, burnt and looted to the ground for their resistance. Any remaining members of the Silver legion were killed, selling their lives dearly in their mountain fortress. The armies who conquered India brought their attention on China. The armies clashed, and thousands died, but China was pushed back from the most western border.

   Serena languished in the prison. Little drips of information were learned. There were about a hundred members of the Inquisitor’s death company, she had done assassination missions all over the empire. She was the daughter of the Hunter, who prowls the wildlands of the world. He was a loner, and could only stay in Atlantis for so long until he felt the urge to prowl again.

   She had also helped with some assignments for the Pharaoh, helping organize supply trains and transferring items into China. She only saw one item, a dark soul gem, glowing with power. The Pharaoh was disliked by the other Cisharni, being extremely brutal and causing too many casualties with his magics. He had many mysterious rituals going on, and there was no way for her to learn them all, nor did she want to.

Spoiler: Sindari Info (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Does Anyone Ever Notice This Anyway? (click to show/hide)

People depended on him.

What a strange sensation.

Absorbing part of the soul of Eltirian had been a dangerous change for the former chieftain. He had spent two decades wandering alone in a strange land, far from people, striving to become more powerful regardless of the consequences. Balance had been hard to find until his third decade of ascension, for an itch had been growing in the back of his mind, and he had finally realized what it was---somewhere, someone believed in him, thought of him as a protector, a hero, a god. The responsibility awoke what remained of the chieftain's personality, and so Turangol set out from the dangerous land that had become his own, and went to aid those he owed such a debt to.

First, however, it was time to face an old enemy. He spent a year staring up at the stars, using the power of his Domain to pierce the mysteries therein, to understand what he had seen, and find when it may come to pass. This time, however, would be much, MUCH more careful...

After that, he would spend four years mastering the spear, and an additional six years mastering the offensive uses of telepathy. He had work to do, after all, and weaklings tend to get killed fast and early.

Then, he went south. Following a guide from the Sind Confederation, he would meet members of the Aoraki and attempt to broker peace, calling on the diplomatic skills of the other Sindari when necessary (Through telepathy. And without asking Flak. At all.).

Then, it was back to his deserted island, to foster his skills in private. He did, however, stop by Amelia's base to harvest some soul gems, according to her procedures.

Six years he poured into his telepathic skills, hardening his mind and teaching himself to produce incredibly fast mental attacks to disrupt an opponent's protections and break their mind.

Six more years he spent with the stars, learning to harness their powers in a more mundane but impressive way, with great bursts of light and pillars of flame.

His fortieth year as a Sindari was spent researching the soul gems that had saved his life, attempting to discover the condition of the soul inside, whether it was still intelligent, and where the power the gems generated comes from.

Expected Results:
Seeing The Future, WOOO!!!
8 points in Spear Use, total 12
Six years' training into the Spell of Mindbreaking, a subdivision of the skill Telepathy. (should be 12 points, right?)
Six years' training into the combat uses of heat and light, as from the stars. (AKA make a combat magic application of Astral Magic, at level 12)
A year spent contacting the Aoraki and making peace.
One year harvesting soul gems (10 gems, probably?)
Information on soul gems.
Two points of Intelligence
Two points of Willpower

Spoiler: Start of turn (click to show/hide)

After recent turn: +2000 worshippers (many will be distributed to other Sindari), +60,000 basic followers (Notable: Ahote the renowned Brave)

Policies set:

None shall be forced to worship the Sindari against their will, though natural conversion will continue to be attempted
We will attempt to make peace with the Aoraki; there is easily space to expand to the East, West, and North, no need to antagonize those to the South
The Sindari will continue to bring technology from the Eurasian civilizations to the Plains people
We will have open borders for migration with friendly civilizations
We will have free trade with friendly civilizations

In addition, 100 worshippers go to each Sindari that lacks them.
(Note: 100 worshippers each go to SM, Crazyabe, Roboson, and Ryukan, so that they have worshippers, and 6 to Flak)

Decade 1
+2 to Presence, for 14
Spend 1 year recruiting shipmakers in Japan, as well as Mongolian archers and horsemen to come to America and teach their arts to the Sind Confederacy (45*14=630 skill 10 followers, take 315 shipmakers and 315 horseback archers to come teach and use their skills in the Confederacy)
Spend 1 year fucking over Cisharni supply lines in Asia
5 years spent training diplomacy (skill 10)
1 year working with Amelia on finding and imbuing a Nu-Sindari, details in her post (see Hunan).
1 year spent convincing other tribes to join the Sind Confederacy (diplomacy to 11 over this time, applicable stats: 14 presence, 10 diplomacy, maybe but hopefully not my 14 agility, 8 perception, and 23 dodging)
1 year trying to get Serena to open up; remember to always be hospitable, because politeness and friendliness get better results than basically anything else (applicable stats: 14 presence, 11 diplomacy)

Decade 2
+2 to Perception, for 10
Spend 1 year recruiting 800 skill 5 construction workers, 200 skill 5 miners, and 130 skill 10 weaponsmiths, all of which will be brought to the Confederacy to help do stuff (build fortifications, find and acquire ores, make weapons/teach advanced weaponmaking, etc.; we're generally trying to bring America to the tech level of Europe and Asia)
Spend 1 year working with Amelia on finding and imbuing a Nu-Sindari; focuses will, secondary are perception and intelligence, has the Pocket Dimension ability (used to maintain Adjilia), and named Jericho.
Spend 1 year getting colonies established in the Pacific
Spend 2 years fortifying our major locations (make use of the 800 construction workers)
Spend 3 more years convincing more tribes to join the Confederacy (same things applicable as before, though perception is now 10 and diplomacy goes to 13 after the second year)
Spend 2 years making sure that we are on good terms with the Aoraki (same stats as for tribes, probably)

Note: when I'm doing things that are more large-scale, this basically means that at these times, I am supervising these activities to get them started and to make sure that things are going properly. The expectation is that even without my personal attention, once I've gotten an activity started, it will continue.

Additional note: Bring over a sizable herd of Flak's goats.

Also, regarding future plans: if we could get the spirits here to essentially ally themselves with Sind and the Sindari, that would be a huge plus. Since we know that Amelia is able to make this happen, I'd appreciate her coming over and getting that to happen.

Expected results:
+13 Diplomacy skill
+many general followers
+info from Serena
+more tribes
+colonies
+science
+follower skills
+actual proper cities and such
+peace with the Aoraki
+Nu-Sindari

Spoiler: End of Turn (click to show/hide)

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Ryukan wakes up in the castle of Heian-kyō in Japan. He is ready to do his part in the war against Atlantis. He begins to read up and train in the arts of medicine and herbcraft.

9 Years training in Medicine
5 Years Working as a Doctor
6 Years raising a Family

Expected Results:
Skills: Medicine 0>13
Wealth: ??
I get a wife and try to have children.

-----

As this is my first Action, there are most likely some errors, please explain them to me in the Discord

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

A new Sindari appears in [not sure where, will edit in later], born with a purpose in mind. To carve out a section of the world for themselves. Little else was on their mind, and Lu would spend these next twenty years solidifying his place in this strange world.

The first year will be spent traveling to Africa.
The second year will be spent founding a coastal town.
Years 3-6 will be spent gaining worshipers.
Year 7-8 will be spent gaining influence.
Year 9-10 will be spent gaining followers.
Year 11-14 will be spent on raising an army.
Year 15-17 will be spent training military strategy.
Year 18-20 will be spent conquering the area.

Expected results:
+worshipers
+influence
+followers
+army
+skill in military strategy
+conquered area

Spoiler: Wavbringer (click to show/hide)

Transfer worshipers to:
Masamune 10,000
Amelia 7,000
Thorondir 1,000
Zacoss 1,000

When asked for advice Kaito told his wife he thought she should send a strong force to help China. The Cisharni would not be satisfied by taking China and it was better to fight them with allies while they were still far away, then to face them alone when they came for Japan.

He also made his own efforts to provide aid. He gathered skilled craftsmen and had them train until they were at the peak of their abilities (rank 13). Then they were set to work making lightning rifles for Violet to enchant. To divert suspicion away from Japan the stockpile was given to the Chinese and they would also receive most of the future shipments although some would be given to their allies like the Japanese.
(20 Skill 13 Crafters making 3 experimental items per year = 60 rifle blanks per year.)
(Violets 13 Enchanting lets her make 30 strength 8 rifles per year * 15 years = 450 rifles.)

In addition he recruited one hundred and fifty spymasters. The fifty most trustworthy were told about the dark soul gem, and tasked with finding it. Another fifty were sent to China to gather information on Cisharni activities and troop movements. The last fifty were sent to Korea along with diplomats to gather intel and to stir up popular support for the Japanese invasion.
1x Gather followers (60 influence * 3 presence = 180)
20 skill 10 Crafters
10 skill 10 diplomats
150 skill 10 spymasters
1x Organize family and followers
1x Focus on family (child male)
2x Gather soul gems (112 per year)
1x Focus on family (child female)

Once rifle production was established Kaito traveled to China. Where he planned to use his weather magic to harass the Cisharni like he had in Italy, as well as using a few new tricks he had thought up, such as blocking mountain passes with snow or if he found a valuable enemy encampment flattening it with tornadoes and deadly hail.
1x Travel to china
1x Train: Weather control
1x Support war
1x Gather soul gems
+ 2 Willpower

He continued to sharpen his magic and began to study ways to disrupt spells and more importantly to resist that disruption.
2x Train: Lightning
2x Train: Enchantment
1x Gather soul gems
1x Train: Counter-magic
2x Train: Counter-counter-magic
2x Support war
+ 2 Willpower

Expected results:
Son Makoto age 19
Daughter Etsu age 16
480 Lightning rifles sent to China
-2 Soul gems
50 Spymasters seeking the dark soul gem
50 Spymasters supporting the war in China
50 Spymasters, 10 skill 10 diplomats, and 200 skill 5 diplomats supporting the war in Korea.
Cisharni forces experience severe bad weather.
+1 Weather control
+‎3 Lightning
+3 ‎Enchanting
+2 Counter-magic
+‎4 Counter-counter-magic
+4 Willpower

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Fluff:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Years summary:

3 years training short sword mastery

3 years training dual weapon/casting mastery

1 year mixing dual weapon/casting and short sword mastery

4 years acquiring and training Spell group Ta - Fire

1 year training spell forge: short sword

2 years training spell echo/duplication

3 years training evocation

2 years improving the city

1 year organizing followers and worshipers to send out to support china with trade and gathering more followers and worshipers for migration.

Desired results:

Short sword mastery 6 - 13

dual weapon/casting mastery 6 - 13

New spell group Ta - fire 2 - 8 - The spell group is designed around the control, use, and energy conversion to produce heat. This heat can take different forms from heating objects to releasing torrents of fire.

spell forge: short sword 6 - 8

echo/duplication spell 4 - 8

evocation - 2 - 8

city improvements - starter public library - smithies

sending a group of basic followers to establish trade with China and to supply aid, Worshipers are sent as Chaplains to help convert more followers and worshipers. They are groups of 20.

population of kingdom 1121 - 40 = 1081

Immigration of 1,000 Worshipers 2081

Intelligence 6 > 8

Willpower 6 > 8

Spoiler: The Insidious Sun Never Fades Away (click to show/hide)

1 year spent traveling to Belarus.
4 years spent formulating the Sudden Death Mark Spell.
3 years spent gathering devoted followers.
2 years teaching Espionage.
Some spies sent to Persia and Carthage. Others instructed to gather rumors.

First Acter was slain by the Cisharni, then Elthirian died under mysterious circumstances and now Ammon died from an assassin's blade. If these deaths weren't a collective wake-up call for Archaementes, nothing else will do. With most of the other Sindari in the East and some in the New World, Archaementes was certain that he was the only one still in the Mediterranean area and the closest to Atlantis the head of the snake itself. Needless to say, he has a lot of work to do.

Since the sacking of Rome, the Atlantean Empire has tightened their grip on their provinces, particularly in Greece. While taxes and levies were raised, scrutiny of governmental and administration documents and actions have increased and any sign of dissent would be met with swift brutality. If Archaementes wished to extend his reach far and wide, he must become just as cunning and ruthless. After all, it takes a (smarter) wolf to defeat another wolf.

After pulling a few strings to get one of his most influential and trusted followers appointed as headmaster of the Corinthian academy, Archaementes gathered his belongings and traveled north to a small town in Belarus named Slavohk, away from the threat of Hera and her Spartan offspring. The new headmaster will serve as his proxy when sending encrypted messages to the rest of his network, functioning as the primary leader of the Greek branch of the Shrouded Dawn. No one would suspect that Archaementes is actually the one in charge until it is too late.

After buying a humble abode on the outskirts of town, away from prowling eyes. Archaementes began work on his next spell. The superstitious natives believed in vengeful spirits who curse any offenders with death for heinous crimes. Though he doesn't know whether the stories were true, Archaementes was interested in whatever texts they could provide concerning their beliefs. Perhaps he could find some way to weaponize misfortune against the Cisharni and their Atlantean underlings.

After peering through the text, Archaementes discovered that these vengeful spirits cause death by placing a mark on each of their victims that will cause them to suddenly die a day later. However, he wanted such a mark to activate only via a sort of trigger like pain or blood for example. Such a mark could be reliably placed anywhere on his agents' bodies such as at the middle of their tongues. When faced with capture and torture, they would simply bite the marked location or get blood on it and drop dead, thus saving themselves from a grisly fate and denying the enemy information. Though he doubted that the mark would even work on the Cisharni themselves, the same couldn't be said for their mortal and perhaps their partly mortal minions.

For four years, Archaementes labored extensively to formulate this new spell. Initially, he conducted experiments on rodents he captured. Allowing the animals to reproduce for a few months, Archaementes regularly culled their numbers and studied what effect their collective deaths had on the mystical energies surrounding him. There was always a miasma that arose at the point of death, almost as if the animals' souls themselves were leaving a temporary mark in the esoteric forces. The miasma conveyed a feeling of a sudden and jarring cessation of life that was followed by eternal peace. Theorizing that the manner of the rodents' deaths would influence the effect of the resulting mark, Archaementes often went out of his way to ensure that they died as quickly and painlessly as possible. Using his prior knowledge of how to manipulate these forces, Archaementes tried to rein in this miasma, to give it form and a physical reaction and to recall and banish it at will. After finally succeeding in the first part, Archaementes tinkered with the miasmatic mark to get it to automatically connect with the marked person's heart and brain so that it can function as intended.

Finally succeeding in his task, Archaementes 'redrew' the mark into what resembled a sun with a single Egyptian-style eye on it face, the mark of the Shrouded Dawn. 'Painting' it onto some of the test rodents, Archaementes tested the mark's trigger responses and speed, tweaking whenever necessary. Soon enough, the rodents died almost instantly when Archaementes either applied enough pain to the marked sites or drops of blood. He then manipulated the mark enough to make it almost invisible to the naked eye and undetectable to all but the most thorough magical inspection. Theoretically, he could make the mark activate on a time delay trigger but since it would only be used on his agents at the moment such things can wait.

Shortly after formulating his new spell, Archaementes went back into Slavohk and acquired more like-minded and trustworthy individuals for three years. Impressed by his rhetoric, a handful of natives joined his cause. Spending two years training them in Espionage, Archaementes inducted them into what would be the first of many secret ceremonies with the purpose of proving their loyalty and reaffirming their devotion to the cause. Afterward, he placed the Sudden Death Mark on the middle of their tongues so that their won't activate it by accidentally biting them. Sending some of them to Persia and Carthage to set up informant networks there, Archaementes commissioned the smartest of his spies to be his spymaster. Like Archaementes' master of assassins, the spymaster will oversee the other spies and train anyone he sends, freeing him up to pursue other tasks.

2 years spent focusing on family.

One of the townspeople, a Roman woman named Herodias, was enamored by Archaementes' speechcraft. Though she wasn't one of his followers, Archaementes found in her someone who is diligent and wise. Confiding her with his secret, he was surprised when she didn't immediately dismiss him as a lunatic. After all, her family did fled the sacking of Rome before she was born and later told her of the incident. After spending several months together, Archaementes and Herodias got married. Nearly a year later, they became the parents of a beautiful baby girl named Sophia.

4 years spent getting soul gems.

Unbeknownst to his family, Archaementes decided to gather more Soul Gems. For four years, he covertly attended executions, bandit hunts, and death beds. Secretly gathering the souls of both the slain guilty and the dying innocent, Archaementes began to wonder just what sort of lines he was prepared to cross. Sure he felt that the ends justified the means but that would mean that he was stooping to the Cisharni's level. He doubted that his wife and his more compassionate Sindari comrades would like what he is becoming. Nevertheless, Archaementes shook himself back to his senses for the umpteenth time. He would gladly see to it that the Atlanteans and their evil masters drown in blood, even if some of it belonged to bystanders. They started all of this when they slayed Sind as well as three of his fellow Sindari. They had forced his hand and he is unwilling to refrain from retaliating. It is their fault, all of it! Of course he could do his best to minimize collateral damage but sometimes there is no guarantee of success. Before the Cisharni go down, many more innocent people will die and such a time will require harder hearts and even greater resolve. Well, someone has to be willing to bear that burden after all.

3 years spend formulating the Madness Curse Spell.

Another thing Archaementes gathered from the texts is the myth of a man who was rendered insane when his kidnappers hanged him upside down above a fire and allowed the heat to cook his brain within his skull for a short period of time. As the man wandered the land in an insane fit for years, an unknown god touched by his plight gave him the power to project his madness onto anyone he chose. Still remembering those who put him in such a state in the first place, the man tracked them back to their hideout and inflicted them with a curse that drove them mad. They were so filled with insanity that they tore into themselves and each other, dragging their nails across their skin and ripping chunks of flesh off their bodies with their teeth. Needless to say, Archaementes was eager to make use of a similar skill.

Waiting until his rodent population replenish their numbers, Archaementes chose a handful of them to induct madness into by essentially putting them through the same method of torture as the man in the myth. After losing a few rodents to heatstroke and third degree burns, Archaementes finally got the procedure and timing right and produced several rodents who showed clear signs of insanity and aggression. He then muzzled and declawed them to prevent them from harming themselves and each other. Manipulating the surrounding esoteric forces, Archaementes directed them through pairs of rodents that consisted of a normal animal and one of the affected specimen, knowing that none of them possessed the intelligence and willpower necessary to detect or control them. Noting how the mental status of each rodent affected the flow of the forces, Archaementes finally isolated a certain pattern of vibration that existed in the forces that crossed the brains of the affected rodents. After practicing calling this pattern into being and dispelling it, Archaementes moved to the next step.

Spending some time tweaking the pattern to make it more powerful, Archaementes tried "connecting" it to each normal rodent's brain in a similar way that he done the Sudden Death Mark. At first, the rodents appeared to be distracted by the curse but otherwise passive. However, he dealt with this issue by making the pattern three times as powerful. This has the effect of making the affected rodents much more aggressive and deranged than even the first specimens. However, this is what he actually wanted to happen so he decided to make some finishing touches.

For the rest of the three years he spent formulating this spell, Archaementes experimented with ways of changing when the curse activates. By creating a curse that activates immediately upon exposure to within five hours, Archaementes can induct madness in his target and leave the scene before any suspicion can be raised. After perfecting the spell's 'time delay', Archaementes begin to experiment with cursed objects. The idea is that anyone who touched the cursed object would be afflicted by the spell. With more tweaking, the spell can also be made to 'leak' into its surroundings unless properly insulated with metal, preferably lead, making it particular useful in contaminating food supplies and drinking water.

To test out his newly formulated spell, Archaementes placed all of the specimens he'd experimented on and a few more normal rodents inside a makeshift pen. Binding a non-leaking Madness Curse with a 30 minute delay onto a slice of cheese, Archaementes picked it up with a pair of tongs and dropped it into the pen. When a few of the normal rodents ate the cheese, they succumbed to severe bouts of madness about a half hour later. Though some of them begin biting themselves enough to tear the skin, the rest of them attacked and ripped into the other rodents. This resulted in a free-for-all that resulted in brutal deaths followed by mortal injuries. Culling all but the few normal rodents who escaped mostly unharmed. Archaementes released them back into the general population and cleaned up the resultant mess.

1 year spending training Persuasion.

Expected Results
---------------------
Informant network set up in Persia and Carthage. Important rumors known.
*1 year travel= Corinth, Greece to Slavohk, Belarus.
*4 years(Death Mark X 2) = Accomplished Sudden Death Mark User.
*3 years(10 X 3 Presence) = 90 Follower Points.
*Devoted Followers
22 Skill 4 Spies = 2 years(Espionage X 2)
*Total number of followers = 610 = +3 Attribute Points
*2 years focusing on family
Herodias, Female, Age 27 (Wife)
Sophia, Female, Age 7 (Daughter)
*4 years(Soul Gems)
*3 years(Madness Curse X 2) = Expert Madness Curse User
*1 year(Persuasion X 4 due to Prodigy trait) = Legendary (14) Persuader

Attributes: Strength:4 Agility:6 Intelligence:8 Willpower:8 Perception:6 Presence:3

Spoiler: SHEET (click to show/hide)

Spend X[Total of time until next turn] Wandering the wilderness, hunting any animals that cross my path with my bare hands.
Knowing he was less then the others, Drethnix wandered the wilds, seeking to become strong in the way of the fist by his own methods.

Desired Results:
*Training in Tracking
*Training in Hand to hand combat

Spoiler: Character Sheet @ Turn Start (click to show/hide)

Worshiper gains invested before turn start.

Spend a year arranging things so that I will still have access to my assets after rebirthing.

Masamune took pride in his accomplishment. He had found Japan a broken and warring land, and in less than a century had forged it into a united front. That pride, however, was tempered by loss. His wife of many years, Junko, passed away in this year, and so he retreated to their home, speaking only rarely with those outside of his family when it was for matters of importance. Still, he had to continue his ultimate mission. After grieving for his wife and their mother, he spoke with his children at length about his plans. They would still be hunted, even here; he needed to disguise himself, and so did they, but he also needed to retain his assets after doing so. He would pose as a grandchild of Ichirou's, and the man would inherit from Masamune after his "death" and then pass it to him once again.

Spend a year rebirthing. New appearance is a short, stocky man, but with a powerful build, and dark hair/eyes. Pose as my own great grandchild.

And so Masamune put his plan into action, disappearing for a year to reform his appearance and purge the ravages of time from his frame. When he reappeared, he assumed the role of a grown grandchild of Ichirou as previously discussed. He "inherited" his own works, so that he would not be defenseless against Cisharni attack.

Spend eight years reforging Yakumo and my nameless armor (x4 = effective 32 years of labor, +2 years of labor in them originally for a total of 34). Yakumo gains complete indestructibility, as does the armor. Yakumo gains the ability to conjure lightning, up to a small lightning storm (or the equivalent in bolts of fury at a target), at the will of the wielder. It can also cut magic. The armor enhances one's physical prowess normally, and alerts the wielder to a Cisharni or Sindari presence nearby, effectively enhancing Perception as well. It also speeds the owner's regeneration enough to recover from wounds mid-fight. At year 10, gain 2 STR.

Perfection was a journey, not a goal; his works were second to none, but with the newfound power surging through him, Masamune felt he could do so much more. He worked for years and years inside the royal workshop, only halting his work occasionally to forge a mundane (but still exceptional) weapon as he worked tirelessly to improve the arms and armor that he would carry into battle against their ancient foes.

Spend 10 years fighting in China against Cisharni forces, gaining skill in Enhancement and Electromancy. Gain 2 Will.

Now, though, there was another hot iron that needed striking. China was under Cisharni assault; if he assisted it, he could help bring it under the banner of the Sindari. So he went alongside the forces Empress Fuuri sent, and fought personally alongside them using his great strength and powerful artifacts. During this, he began to learn to manipulate the flow of electricity without any assistance from his blade, and to control it better while he was using it.

Expected gains:
-Much improved artifacts
-Throw off Cisharni pursuit temporarily
-+2 Enhancement (total 13) +8 Electromancy (total 8 )
-+2 STR, +2 WILL
-Influence/events in China?

((I noticed I made a mistake on calculating some skills, so I subtracted 1 from Bending/Teaching, and added that to my Nu-Sindari instead. Oops!))

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 6th turn (20 year turn). 100 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

Quote from: Basic Details

Name: Amelia
Alias: The Builder
Appearance: Amelia will always appear as a young woman of varying sturdy build, with a light brown complexion, dark colored hair, and golden hued irises.
[In the 70th decade, she reappears as a young woman, having discarded the visage of age since her travel from overseas]
Class: Bandorin
Abilities:
+ Alchemy | This skill enables transmutation of material to other materials; as with all god-given skills, transmuted items may be sensed as magical.
+ Artificer | (Amelia may create items that provide bonuses to attributes over time, or imbue items that will aid in certain tasks, such as providing the ability to sense Cisharni for example as a high note; basically this is a trait of a general craftsman who may make items herself or templates for items)

Attributes:
Strength*:2
Agility:2
Intelligence*:14
Willpower*:10 [16]
Perception:2
Presence:2

Influence: 0
Followers (Not including Family/Worshippers): 20,380
Worshipers/Power: 7001; +10

Quote from: Wealth/Assets

+45 Wealth modifier
10 Soul Gems [All set to be used for Artificer work]

> +10 Worship points invested into Artificer, with these details upgrading it:
- Able to apply Enchantment skill*2 into armor/weapons
- A full set of armor/weapons takes a week to artifice.
- I am able to add basic enchantments without using a soul gem (basic being anything that's subtle, like being on fire, small increase in attributes, non-overt characteristics that denote a magical item; until level 6 spellpower [WILL]) and enchantments that do use a soul gem are extremely difficult to burn out (requiring extreme circumstances)
- I am able to inset "God" level enchantments, utilizing a soul gem; this takes the same amount of time.

Quote from: Personal Connections

Family: 1
> Tala; Wife. Nu-Sindari since the 41st year (6/6) [59 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Alchemy
- Cooking 10; Administration 10; Persuasion 10; Herbalism 13; Teaching 9; Bending 3; Animal Training 3; Performance 3
Attributes:
Strength*:2
Agility:2
Intelligence*:12
Willpower*:4
Perception:2
Presence:2

Quote from: Skills

Engineering: 15 [Legendary+] **Bending: 15 [Legendary+] Mining: 13 [Legendary] Enchanting: 13 [Legendary] Persuasion: 13 [Legendary] Teaching: 12 [Grand Master] Scholar: 12 [Grand Master] Administration: 11 [High Master] Performance: 7 [Professional] Doctor: 5 [Adept] Gemlock Making: 1 [Adequate] **This is a combat skill, 'Bending' is a mixture of martial arts/magic

Quote from: Base

Aboveground
> A Developing Fortified City difficult to see from the skies is entrenched into a valley enclosure, where the entrance to the underground base starts. Terraced farmland paint the landscape of the mountain range. A Trade Company exists, with its many buildings set in a dedicated zone, with specialized buildings and facilities using and producing refined and dedicated tools for ease of use for the population.
> A Road Network connects the local area together, winding from the most stable of areas on the mountain range to both the valleys and other locations, cutting down travel time and permitting easier movement of trade, acting as a landmark in itself for travelers and the local populace.
> An Academy, rooted within the heart of the mountain, with its foundations perched atop a plateau within a valley in the mountain range, and with a grand view of the local area, acts as both an expansive area of commune, training, and communication, and as a place of learning and education, host to a grand library with both seminal, historical documentation from around the world, and of the studies of magic and its fundamentals. It houses the process of blending East and West technology and information.
Underground
> The underground is a natural, hollowed cavern. Thoroughly mapped out, fault lines and danger zones are well-known due to Amelia's Bandorin insight--it can currently hold 100,000 people in full comfort to their needs, with graceful decorations and multiple facilities providing various amenities akin to wealthy above-ground structures and service areas. Recent adjustments enable both enchantment and engineering at a wider scale, making larger structures or expansion to be safely done.
- Defences within the underground encompass the local region, boasting refined teleportation blockers attuned to the Cisharni, with the long term refinement goal being subtle in their effect that renders such enchantment near impalpable to others' perceptions.
- Other defenses include the local Spirit of Harmony, alongside a Soul Gem network from the ancestors and renowned deceased of the population, with the network embedded on the cavern ceiling to reflect the skies and stars aboveground.
> Specialized quarters for the Sindari and their families/worshippers/followers exist within, providing a comfortable and stable climate within the mountain. A teleporter to the Japanese Empress' Castle is also present therein, acting as a transport of materials and personnel to Masamune's smithy.
> A Grand Temple is hewn from majestic rock, placed near an opening to the vale, where the moving winds create both music and an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. It is a place of general worship, housing a local Spirit of Harmony, which aids the local attitude and personal growth.
> A Soul Gem Network is taking root; structured to reflect the constellations of the skies, it is an artificial process to aid natural defenses and provide a pathway for both natural magic and the sentient energies of all people within.

Quote from: Other Notes

> The region my character is in, in our history is Ifugao (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ifugao#History). It is surrounded by, or has proximity to 4 kingdoms spanning the whole landmass, excluding that of the mountains. All Kings are neutral in disposition to me, other than the Eastern one--a powerful King named Koan.

***This world is of a similar, but different timeline than our own, having roots with physical and understandable magic as part of its physics and natural laws; one major indicator is the differing tech levels that equal an advance of society despite it being the relative BC period. (Map (12th century) (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/East-Hem_1200ad.jpg))

In the 100th year since Sindari creation
First Decade (1 out of 2 of this turn)

Spoiler: First decade expectations/summary (click to show/hide)

With the loss of Ammon, Amelia was distraught--much like the first loss she had encountered at Acter's death--but she had a support network now. Friends, both mortal and immortal, valued equally and of whom valued her equal as well. The people, from the elders who she had met long ago as children, and from the spirits of their ancestors, were also her supports in facing an emotional loss; these people understood, both from her sharing her own perspective and from their own subjective, yet unique, experiences themselves with loss. This motivated her to find more and commit herself to aiding the people, especially with a lingering suspicion in her mind of how anyone would've slipped a knife on Ammon in such a way that all his skills, and all his potential, was caught off-guard.
> 1 year into imbuing a Sindari myself, alone.
> 2 years into training Warding [Defense against Magic]
> 1 year on Implementing Warding, expanding local enchantments against hostile magic/perception/scrying.
> 1 year on aiding Octavian's work with Serena, alongside adding in her own insights--as a last resort, if ever, she reveals the hand of Sind; the Cisharni face a God reborn with the living, using enchantment as visual-aids rather than just her persuasive voice. Also Warding emplacements on Adjilia. {Warding is the skill worked on, but others aren't leveled because only one skill is a focus, but Persuasion and other social skills are the focus here}

The war in western China was predicted to be long-going. With the loss of Ammon, Amelia felt that the Cisharni were becoming either very leery, or magnifying the dangers they faced and would begin a wholesome extermination of anything they felt was Sindari. On that matter, she was grateful for Masamune's recent deliveries of equipment and weaponry, and she knew as much that her people would be receptive to what she would say--they were hunters, warriors, and overall a strong people, regardless of gender. Therein, she wondered to make a niche into something that would benefit in the long-run, creating career soldiers and a profession rather than an occupation, although this would also be decided to come from those excelling in education given how delicate war was, with both the mind and working with...uncommon experiences via more exposure in reality.
> 2 years using Administration/Teaching {working 1 each, for mechanical reasons} to hone a dedicated military force focused on Ranger/Cartography, basically elite scouts and experts of terrain traversal, movement, and logistics. {+Quality of military; Quality fully over Quantity.}

Spoiler: Flavor (click to show/hide)

While participating with Octavian in search of other Sindari, Amelia tended to many actions not described within literature or even in daily tellings. One of these was when she met Malaya--she would become the second Nu-Sindari under her guidance. She was a member of one of the nomadic tribes throughout the lands where Amelia guided her people; this was pertinent and discernible by both her communication with her (and the red-haired Octavian), and her display of skill in the weeks that passed as Amelia and Octavian gathered and procured supplies and otherwise, covertly. With what would be known today as the foundations of botany, this was seen as a characteristic of members of these nomadic tribes; knowledge and identification of plantlore and herbal lore, alongside skill with working with the terrain, from climbing to endurance tests, to sensing the weather and acclimatization with both the cold of the mountains and the heat of the lowlands; a sharp memory to the seasons and landscape, and the connection of social skills not only encompassing people and their roles or identity, but also the land and the natural environment was a veritable part of what characterized a culture that adapted well, and Octavian had an eye for skill, suggesting many things from his own thoughts, alongside those of others he had met to Amelia.

In speaking, Amelia would deny most involvement with tying together the people of the lands, attributing it instead to varying sources--from the spirits, to the people, to the deities, and otherwise. In written records, one presumed influence would be the open supply 'caravans' which Amelia helped found which traveled throughout the lands, specializing in teaching, spreading, and gathering information, with two goals of gathering and honing knowledge and providing for everyone they came across--built upon the cultures of the people, and guided by teachings of openness and adaptation. Each caravan always had a member which could work with communication, whether it was through magic or physical mediums, or other means.

Much more was presumably done, when such connections were helped with showing one's own way of adapting rather than enforcing what one thinks was best.

> 1 year into honing a Nu-Sindari with Octavian; Mecuritia Caste--focused into Agility, Perception, and Intelligence.
> 1 year on Persuasion/Orienting the populace about the War with the Cisharni, on trusting the Sindari, and in general briefing everyone locally regarding the trouble in China, alongside asking for trust and their aid. {+Worshippers/additional diplomacy with China}
> 1 year spent using my ARTIFICER skill in imbuing EVERY SINDARI's equipment, including their family and my local military, and then any elite forces I can reach out to in a year's time, using my Nu-Sindari teleporter to get that equipment for transport, and a generic note to ask permission.

Spoiler: Other Tasks (click to show/hide)

In the 110th year since Sindari creation
Second Decade (2 out of 2 of this turn)

Spoiler: Second decade expectations/summary (click to show/hide)

With time, Amelia found herself pondering over the Gemlock rifles that were prolific in concern--it made war impersonal, much like how the Cisharni treated...everything. They did not care, at least how their ideology came hardened in concept to be, because they did not "see" people with the potential she saw, or what her brothers saw them, within them, with them. This was both an enigma to her, and something that brokered necessity. Their technology was innovative, but used ineffectively against their 'enemies'; it was not efficient in the long-term, made only for war. As a tool would affect the user, in adapting their environment, so too did Amelia believe, the tool was a symbol for the user to envision the environment in turn. With a heavy heart, she decided to re-imagine the soul gem as something of better use than a weapon of death.

**Deployment of military scouts into the battlefield.
> 1 year transcribing {using Artificer} the Gemlock Making skill to shove onto Masamune instead. Transplant ideas into Soul-Gem Armor with Masamune, and transcribe all details for his knowledge. {Probably meaning, rip away all my Gemlock making skill, and shove it onto him}. If time is available, spend the rest of it Artificer'ing the armor/equipment of my scouts, for a very subtle method of communication with home base; deploy them alongside that one other Sindari I imbued acting as military commander.
> 1 year working with Octavian on finding and imbuing a Nu-Sindari, Mecuritia--using his Adjilia pocket Dimension ability. His post details specifics.

With Authority was power, and responsibility. Corruption pays more attention to the former, with the latter being affixed onto the self rather than the numbers one controlled representing people, or any distinct value under one's control. This was interpreted from browsing literature coming from Rome and many other sources--it was a very complex entity, but understanding in its many parts. In hindsight, this was merely one idea in trying to understand a dead Dragon Prince, but Amelia wondered why there was so much...intensity with how people bargained and traded for power. In giving and sharing, she learned and saw, there was mutual gains, and both grew stronger; perhaps it was through insight and vision that these gains would even exist in the first place. The lack of impulsivity and short-sightedness. But that was a very real concern considering how Sind envisioned the world--how would one know, if what is sensed by them is what is first in thought, coming from what is around them? What if people grew up in a hurtful and lackluster environment? What if they were not guided or brought up well? Many questions, mirroring those as similar as those she thought of long ago, and those that were repeated in different forms, came by her. Questions that reflected thoughts that she knew were had by those who had lived in centuries before her, but lacked the materials around to create reality from the thought.
> 1 year on Administration, working in China to expedite process of our aid into China, and in dealing with the locals by aiding their government structure {+Quality/better relations with Chinese Emperor?}

In application, there was so much to do--she knew everyone had their own grand thoughts, but only few became existent. Therein, she started with the quality of life from the smallest portion of society she could see, the individual's health. She learned there was at least two components to one's health. Their thinking, and their being. Physical wounds could just be as damaging as thinking wounds--or mental wounds, which she felt was a better term, as coming from her erudite friends. This tiny snippet of thought in a day would compound to change more in the years to come.
> 1 years on training Doctor; using myself as the test subject.
> 2 year of focused Diplomacy.
> 1 year spending time in China, covertly but openly, aiding the populace with a full mix of my skills--focused on Doctor and Administration/Persuasion/Diplomacy, especially the lines behind the warzone.
> 1 year of (Scholar, bonuses with Teaching/Persuasion/Administration) revising the education within the academy; systematizing with focused training on teachers and with respect to culture, diversifying instead of just one academy, structuring the society alongside education, and introducing these concepts to earlier ages--alongside providing for the elderly.
> 2 years of spending that Diplomacy helping Octavian and the Aoraki tribes, covertly as a wise woman.

Spoiler: Other Tasks (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Flak (click to show/hide)

Spend seven years trianing swordsmanship
spend one year undergoing rebirth
Spend one year going to china on foot taking with me only basic supplies
Spend eleven years fighting with the chinese

Results:
+7 swordsmanship
My new body looks like a young Filipino man
I take only that which is needed to travel to China
+13 soldiering
I am well integrated with the Chinese army. I try to use my powers as little as possible.
+2 to INT

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Year 91-110
Spend 7 years training Archery
Spend 5 years training force arrow
Spend 7 years training poisons
Spend 1 year infusing another wolf

By decades
1/ will to 5
2/ strength to 4

Expected results
+7 to archery
+10 to magic arrows
+13 to poisons
+1 Sindari wolves with shadow magic

Fluff and stuff later.

Event: War in China

The forces of the Cisharni were restless after conquering India. Months of inactivity followed, as rebellions were easily crushed. The Cisharni were hungry for vengeance for their fallen brother, and some of them would see the world burn. They soon turned their attentions to China, land of the Dragon Emperor. He had resisted their influence, and would not bow his head. And so the war simmered to a start.

Atlantis forged supply lines and made great stockpiles. Armies mustered and marched to the edge of the empire. There they waited, until a signal was finally given.

The armies of Atlantis surged into war. The forces of the Dragon Emperor were determined warriors, and the average soldier had better morale than an Atlantean conscript. But there was no true answer for the Spartans.

Paddies and fields and crushed beneath armored boots, and hundreds of towns and villages burned as armies battled.

With the reinforcements from Japan and the Sindari, the Atlantean army was stopped outside of the fortress of Dragon’s Tooth. Circled by 2 stone walls, it was centered on a hill, and controlled the easiest path to the heartland of China. It was commanded by Prince Tal, with 6,000 warriors holding the walls. They have a couple dozen of the lightening guns from Japan, and they have demonstrated their potency a few times when an enemy soldier came too close to the wall.

The host of Atlantis lays siege to Dragon’s Tooth, consisting of 2 companies of Spartans, and 20,000 Greek and Indian soldiers. It is unknown if any Cisharni are present with the army.

A relief force of both Chinese and Japanese warriors numbering 2,000 warriors harass supply lines and skirmish on the outskirts of the siege camp.

Preparations are seen among the siege force for an assault. Ladders, rams, and gem lock cannons are readied. A Spartan Champion, gloried by countless duels and battles, begins to stride before the wars, offering to challenge any brave enough to face him.

The defenders are grim, for their chance of success is low. But they determined to not go quietly into the night. And there is a spark of hope, for the Sindari are there, and perhaps they can change the tide of this conflict.

(So this is back after a long absence! I figure the best way to gently bring this mostly dead game back to life is to do some events that will set the stage for the next turn and decade of the game.

So if you have spent an action fighting in China you are available to participate in the event. I’ll leave it to you and your character where you are, either in the fortress , with the relief army, or somewhere else. What you do is also of course up to you, whether harassing supply lines, assassinating enemy commanders, or leading a force into battle. Also one person can challenge the Spartans champion. Let me know if you need more details or have questions about what you are planning on doing.

The Sindari are back!)

Octavian is, like Acter before him, teleporting along the roads between China and the West, looking for the most important stops... but instead of making a profit, he’s making mischief.

Hay bales burned.

Crates of supplies, smashed during the night.

Animals untethered, lost to the wilderness.

And sometimes - just sometimes - a note.

“The Silver Legion never surrenders.”

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Also depending on when in the turn the event is... (click to show/hide)

Dragon's Tooth was the most likely route for the Cisharni, and so Kaito made preparations. The garrison commander was warned to make sure there were strong roofs for the troops to shelter under during extreme weather. Then when the enemy came in sight he began to build the most terrible storm he had ever used,
a killer hail storm able to threaten even well armored men. And then when it was finally ready he bent it's path to hammer the Spartans and their army.

Spend soul gems as necessary to create a killer hailstorm to pummel the Cisharni army.(8 soul gems available)

Turangol
The future was turbulent. Rolling events and dark clouds of uncertainty boiled around Turangol. He had to discover what lay ahead, to protect his friends, to save what he could.
A path opened before him. Of a fortress, surrounded by darkness. He sees brother and sister Sindari fighting there. A Spartan Champion stands, and he fights against one of the Sindari. Plans and reactions appear before him, along with the traps of the foe.

But he also sees another path. Of a dark Pharaoh, taking a gem into the heart of a land. There is an explosion of darkness, past which he cannot see.

But both paths are closing, and you only have the ability to go down one. What path does Turangol chose?

( Madman, due to your seeing the future action, you can choose a buff that will give an automatic success to everyone’s first action in the War in China event, or you can discover the time and place of the Pharaoh detonating his dark soul soul gem, and have a chance of preventing it. )

Masamune served as a stalwart backbone to the Japanese forces assisting in the fight. Ground gained under him would be ground held, and that was final. Fortifications were raised and rearranged as needed to meet the needs of their army, and should any Cisharni forces dare to challenge them, they would find the Lord of the Blacksmiths awaiting their advance with the same patience with which he approached everything. He avoided unleashing the true power of his blade, but its uncanny ability to cut through anything in its path, combined with the unyielding nature of his armor, would suffice to stop all but the most powerful assaults dead, quite literally in many cases.

The future calls...

Two paths and yet one pair of feet, as it were. Thinking quickly, Turangol realizes that the Sindari need no help in China--if they cannot win that fight without his help, they will know that they have erred terribly in revealing themselves. He must seek information about the plans of the Pharaoh, search the black for an answer.

Turangol:
Turangol dove through the after the path containing the dark Pharaoh and gem.The shadows cleared and lifted.

The Pharaoh strode up the steps, lush vegetation surrounding him, cobblestone underneath his feet. His Death Guard surrounded him, expressionless faces peering from their helms. Dead guardians lay on the stars, some cut and bloody, others burned by arcane magic. Behind him a massive soul gem was carried up the stairs.

The soul gem crackled with power. Screams could be faintly heard emerging from it. A small temple lay ahead of them. Priests rushed forward to stop them, drawing on the power of the place to stop this foe. Flashes of light sprang from the priests and slammed into front ranks of the Death Guard. Though a few fell, the others spun into their midst, glaives slashing through them and cutting them down to a man. The Pharaoh chuckled grimly and stepped over the bodies, then he froze. He looked up. At Turangol.

Turangol muttered a curse and began to exit. The dark Pharaoh started a moment longer, then a shower of sparks erupted from an arrow colliding into a shield that sprang up next to his face. He snarled, and a bolt of dark energy was shot out in the direction of where the arrow came from. A figure leapt from the temple roof, blades flashing. It brought down several Death Guards before being blasted away by a wave of dark energy. Turangol’s vision faded then, and after that, he saw darkness erupt over the land of China.

Turangol returned to his body. He recognized the temple as one of the 3 nexus points of magical energy in China. Try as he might, though, he was unable to recall the details of which nexus point it was (perhaps the Pharaoh has not decided yet). He was able to tell that it took place sometime in the year 112.

I go to fight the champion spartan, bringing only that which is needed for the fight.

Spoiler: Relevant stats bolded (click to show/hide)

((After much deliberation, I decided to go ahead and use my influence to start 1 event in Greece, provided that I can still act this turn.))

Attempt to replace the bureaucracies of as many of the Greek city-states as possible, except Sparta for obvious reasons, with members of the Shrouded Dawn.

The Shrouded Dawn has come a long way since its conception at Corinth. Many Greeks and foreigners, wishing to see the Atlantean Empire greatly weakened if not outright destroyed, flocked to the banners of the Sindari known as the Illuminating Mystery. From scholars to soldiers, many joined knowing that even if the Atlanteans never fall during their lifetime, future generations will dance on the ruins. However, as it currently stands, the Shrouded Dawn is just a mostly idle, secretive cult standing in the background while outsiders run the affairs of Greece. Though some have already infiltrated the city-state governments, they were mostly in the clerical and low level positions, certainly not administrating anything.

That is about to change.

Contacting his trusted followers via encrypted messages, Archaementes formulated a grand scheme. Knowing that open rebellion and mass assassinations in Greece were out of the question at least for now, he instead opted of a longer but much more assured operation. He planned to get his followers up the hierarchies by removing those currently occupying the wanted positions, usually by framing them for crimes or souring their reputations with the populace to force their resignations. For those who are more stubborn to remove, Archaementes plan to use his assassins to engineer 'accidents' to kill or severely injure them... but only as a last resort and certainly not constantly. Otherwise, he will leave then alone to deal with later. To put the cherry on top, Archaementes planned to let an irregular amount of time pass between each city-state's bureaucracy being climbed and further infiltrated to avoid suspicion. He then set the plan in motion and sat back to see how it all plays out...

((Not in an event or a turn, but I figure I can do this))
Use my Santorus skill to track the Pharaoh.

War in China

The Spartan Champion paces before the fortress of Dragon’s Tooth. His armor is bright, spear study and sword at the hip. He calls forth another challenge. He has faced several Dragon Guards, the best warriors of the Dragon Emperor, and won. He is confident in his victory today.

The gates open and a warrior, armored in plate, strides out. An anxious gathering of China’s soldiers watch from the top of the walls. The Spartan Champion grins.

“Finally, someone brave enough to die at my hands!”

The warrior makes no response, and readies his sword.

They charge. The Spartan lunges with a precise thrust, fast as a snake’s strike, meant to end the duel quickly. But the warrior sways out of the way, the spear point scoring off his face plate as he slashes a the Spartan. The blow is blocked by the shield, a dull thud echoing over the rocky plans.

The onlookers from both sides saw a dance, each movement deadly and fast. The Spartan abandoned the spear and drew his sword, and he and the warriors dueled with their blades, each strike as fast as lightning. The Spartan was the first to draw blood, from a strike to the leg, but the warrior was quick to respond with two slashes that sent the Spartan reeling and a spray of blood into the air. The Spartan narrowed his eyes, and blinked.

The Spartan appeared behind the armored warrior, his sword swinging through the space his opponent’s neck occupied moments ago. The Spartan froze in shock for a moment, and then tried to dodge away from the plunging sword.

Flak stood there a moment, his sword deep in his opponents chest. He then nodded at the fallen champion, then in a swift motion withdrew the sword and cut off his opponents head.

A cry erupted from the Spartans, and they charged. In moments the first of them were leaping around Flak, their spears and swords a blur as they attacked. But Flak was faster.

His blade a flash, Flak blinked around them, his sword bloody as he cut, each stroke masterful as he danced around the enraged Spartans. But even as he brought them down, they were responding with their own blows.

Wavebringer began his call then. The storms rushed in, obeying their master’s call. Thunder cracked and roared at his bidding. The hail began slowly at first, plinking off soldier’s armor as they stood, but it built quickly. Wavebringer felt resistance of mages trying to stop the assault, but Wavebringer was vastly stronger than them in this element. Soon hail the size of boulders began to rain down as Wavebringer channeled the wrath of 8 souls, each refined in a gem to channel the magic of the Outside into the world. The hail smashed down on the Atlantean army, crushing even the most armored of soldiers. The worst of the hail stayed outside the walls, but even the most fearless of them took shelter.

Flak’s dance began to slow as the wounds took their toll. His armor turned dark from blood weeping from holes made by enchanted spears and swords. A thrust from a young Spartan went deep into his chest. Flak slammed his sword into the face of the triumphant Spartan, and fell. Spartan dead surrounded him. Those alive moved in for the kill. Then the hail came, and Flak saw only darkness.

The Japanese force came once the hail stopped, killing those who resisted and capturing those who couldn’t. The Spartans fought to the last, often requiring Masamune to dispatch them. The forces of Dragon’s Tooth streamed from the fortress, assaulting the besiegers. The broken, shocked army was unable to resist, and fled. Only a thousand men escaped.

This battle turned the tide of the invasion. The Atlantean forces had to regroup, and raids on their supply lines made that difficult. The Spartans were devastated by the loss of two companies. Centuries of battle experience was lost. Gathered from reports from survivors, the commanders determined that Immortals were responsible. The Cisharni surmised that the Sindari were the ones responsible. They had been distracted by internal affairs of the empire, but now it was decided that the Sindari were perhaps the greatest threat they had faced. Atlantean army regulars were mustered, and vast levies from across the empire were taken. A few of the Cisharni decided to lead the armies this time. There would be no mistakes this time.

After Ascension: 110-120

The Inquisitor and Artemis walked deep into the bowels of the citadel in the heart of Atlantis. The Inquisitor paced quickly, anxiety gnawing his heart. The two emerged into a training arena, the floor sandy, lit from above by lights crafted by Gromfin to mimic the sun. There a hulking brute sparred with members of the Atlantean Royal Guard, the best fighters of the Empire. They spun and leapt, their blades flashing quickly. The brute was quicker, his training weapon almost too fast for a mortal eye to track, but his was an unrefined, raw power. Eventually a halt was called, and the men discussed technique with him.

“Already he matches our best,” The Inquisitor spoke low to Artemis. “His temperament is also . . . disturbing. If the Pharaoh got his hands on him, I fear what he might do.”

Artemis shook her head. “He is our brother, we cannot keep him locked in here. He deserves the freedom to make his own choices. I’ll talk with him. I can’t stay here for long, I have elusive quarry to pursue in Asia.

The pair went down to the pit. The large Cisharni sat in a corner, red runes engraved in his body. He sat in silence, his head bowed. As they approached he spoke.

“The Firstborn was noble and bright, full of love and warmth,” the guttural voice echoed through the chamber. “He was murdered. The Secondborn was crafty, and skilled above all others in magics to protect his family. He was destroyed by his hubris. Now, only wrath remains.”

He looks up, his eyes red.
“I am the Thirdborn, and I bring war.”

Status Report

Americas: Octavian’s efforts of growing the Sind Confederacy bore fruit. Tribes that were reluctant to join were persuaded by Octavian’s reassurances. The confederacy swelled. Though factions were beginning to form about the role of traditions in this new society. Cities began to spring up, and farms planted.
Through the efforts of several Sindari, peace was brokered with the Aoraki in the south. All tribes were forced to either join the confederacy or the Aoraki. Small raiding parties travel across the borders and raid small tribes, but nothing large scale has taken place. The Sind confederacy grows by 40,000, to a total of near 100,000.

Japan: The kingdom under Empress Fuuri Noriko flourishes. Peace and justice reign throughout the land under her wise rulership. The invasion of Korea had gone well, and tribute flows back into the realm. Even the peasants experience great boons, their safety assured and taxes lowered. The kingdom is happy, and only the nobility’s thoughts are troubled by the war in China, and even then it is more an opportunity for glory than an actual risk. Their great fleet is assembled, and pirates are hunted down. It is a golden age.

Spoiler: Sindari Stuff (click to show/hide)

Sindari:
( If I made no mention of your character, just assume that everything you stated was accepted by me and took place. If you needed a follow up and I missed it, just let me know and I’ll get back to you on that.)

Octavian: His efforts of growing the Sind confederacy bear fruit. The tribes that were more reluctant were swayed by his gentle words and reassurances. They joined the confederacy, but kept their traditions and worship. Gain 40,000 followers, and 1,000 worshippers. Colonies were attempted to be founded in the pacific, but volunteers were very few, and no islands were found suitable yet. (⅙ Project Colonies).

Serena has given all the information she will willingly, but over the 20 some years she considers Octavian to be a friend. She no longer sees the Sindari as an enemy, and thinks they may be better for the world than the Cisharni. But she doesn’t to fight them. She asks if she can live in America, help this budding civilization. She says that she can stop mental communication, and no one will think she is alive, anyways

Ryukan: He studies medicine, and marries and has 5 children. (Sindariness levels are ⅙, ⅚, 4/6,2/6,6/6)

Archaementes: You learn supply routes to the Chinese front, and you were able to slip several spies into the army headed for China. You have learned that Apollo will be one of the Cisharni headed to the war. Also (as regards to your event), after discussion with the members of your organization you believe that the quiet takeover of the bureaucracy of the greek cities is certainly possible (0/4 completed so far, need 4 years of hands on work to accomplish). Daughter: ⅚ Sindari.

Amelia: The islands of the Philippines truly become a place of enlightenment. Discussions take place in academies that have sprung up, the local kings, informed by wise advisors, have formed a council that governs the island. Trade with China and Japan has brought prosperity, and refugees from regions devastated by war have found a new home here. The scouts trained by Amelia, though few in number, have made an oversized mark on the war in China, allowing allied forces to move quickly through areas and surprise Atlantean forces. Though the corp is young yet, they already have gained much acclaim.

Flak: Pulled from the battlefield by his comrades, Flak was heavily wounded in the fighting. He has however gained much fame from his victory.
+5 influence.
Gravely wounded: will need to spend a year rebirthing, until then attributes are limited to 2.

Rigel: Gains a new wolf: 6/6 Sindariness

Turangol: Soul Gem investigation (He has determined that the soul inside is not generally intelligent, unable to communicate clearly, and draws power from the Void, or the Outside).

Wavebringer: Children (5/6, 1/6). Spymasters were only able to discover that hundreds of people disappeared around the Black Pryamid, and that is where it is likely held.

This turn is only a decade long because events are happening quicker. Dragon's Tooth is held for now, but an Atlantean assault is expected by year 1. Year 2 is when the Pharaoh was seen trying to get his soul gem into position at one of the 3 Nexuses. Because you defended the fortress, all Nexuses remain in friendly hands. Let me know if you have any questions!)

Let's start with the fact that I'm pretty sure there were 1594 general worshippers left over from my previous turn's giveaway of people. With the new 1000 and the original 1020, I should now have 3614 people that worship me.
Just wanted to take the time to get that written down.

Spoiler: Start of Turn (click to show/hide)

We will not be suppressing any cultures.

What was the result of talks with Serrana?

+2 to Agility, for 16
Other actions put on hold until we know the details of events in years 1 and 2.

So, what info have I gained by tracking the Pharaoh with my ability?

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Year 110-111

The forces of Atlantis mustered in China. Massive reserves of food, horses, weapons and ammo were brought, and then intensely guarded. Apollo would soon lead an assault against the fortress of Dragon’s Tooth, backed by Atlantean army regulars. Generals with centuries of experience lead armies into the countryside burning villages and sacking cities.

But the forces of Atlantis were not unopposed.

So I figure one way to do this is to ask some questions to see how this war shapes out. If you are doing something else that’s also fine

Japanese forces: 20,000
Chinese: 80,000
1. What is your general strategy? Do you work alone or lead? Do you fight for every inch of ground, or do you prefer ambushes?
2. Do you try to save Dragon’s Tooth? Or are you willing to give it up to preserve your forces?
3. Are you willing to die in this fight? You are immortal, after all, and there are many battles ahead that will need you. This determines how long you will stay in a battle before withdrawing

1. I, at least, will serve two main roles: scout and supply line harasser. I mostly work alone, checking out where our opponents are, as well as continuing to mess with their supply lines. This said, if at any time I notice that the Cisharni have put down their anti-teleportation enchantments, I’m retreating to the back and working as a strategist.
2. I say we have a threshold of men we’re willing to lose for the fort - for arguments purposes, I’ll currently say 33%. This is tentative.
3. I’m not.

EDIT: As an additional note, Jericho should be helping anyone that needs teleportation to be where they want to be.

Spoiler: The Subversive Sun Turns Its Maddening Gaze Eastward (click to show/hide)

Taking in telepathically Turangol's prediction of the Pharaoh's plan and the subsequent investigation of the soul gem that he planned to use, Archaementes bemoaned the fact that the antics of this psychopathic asshole of a Cisharni has stalled his own agenda concerning the Greek city-states. Just four years of finally taking control of the reigns of Greek politics and already he knew that he had only two years to make a move before the Pharaoh does... whatever he is planning to do. Regardless of whether he planned to steal some sort of power hidden in the Chinese nexuses or unleashing a terrifying creature from Sind knows where, Archaementes' grand scheme will have to wait. He has an apocalypse to stall if not outright prevent.

Archaementes was pleased that Sophia has inherited about five-sixth of his Sindari heritage as far as he can tell. Though he would've still loved her even if she inherited none, the extra 'specialness' will go a long way in helping her surpass her human peers and perhaps one day inheriting his entire Sind shard, taking over the Shrouded Dawn should a Cisharni somehow managed to find and slay him in battle. In fact, Archaementes has intentions to groom her into the necessary mindset whenever he could and have been keeping unsavory secrets about his previous actions from Herodias. As much as he loved her, he knew that she was too… honest and fainthearted to tolerate the shady deeds he often have to do. As much as it pained him, Archaementes chose to keep her ignorant of all this, if only to protect her innocence.

1 year spent using the Madness Curse on coins and having his spies in Persia scatter them on frequent Atlantean military routes

Based on his frequent telepathic communications, Archaementes learned that his fellow Sindari managed to repel the first Atlantean offensive. Even Flak, the Beast of Africa, managed to slay a Spartan champion in melee while Wavebringer succeeded in crushing thousands of Atlanteans with giant hailstones. In total, Sparta lost two of her companies while Atlantis lost even more soldiers. However, he knew that the Cisharni were really riled up this time as they were leading the armies themselves, with one of them identified as Apollo. If the Sindari's powerful cousins were leading the offensive this time then China stood almost no chance of stopping the Atlanteans this time.

They metaphorically needed the sunlight to be in their eyes.

Getting 5 of his Gold exchanged for 5,000 pieces of silver (I'm assuming that we're using either Atlantean or 'generic' currency in this game), Archaementes put a notch on each of them and begin applying his Madness Curse on them, tweaking the skill so that it'll hopefully fade from the coins after two years but begin affecting the victims two weeks after exposure. He used Soul Gems whenever necessary. Using tongs, Archaementes carefully placed each of them into a total of 500 cloth bags. Sending them to his spies in Persia via trusted messengers, Archaementes also sent encrypted orders for them to scatter the cursed coins along the Atlanteans' supply and army routes, The orders also warned them not to touch the coins with their bare hands or they too will be cursed by madness. If everything goes well, the Atlantean soldiers should come across the coins and pick them up, thinking that the preceding forces had dropped them. Two weeks later, the Atlanteans and hopefully the Spartans too should tear into each other or hurt themselves in fits of madness. At the very most, the armies will become so disorderly that they can be finished off by a swift coup de grace by his fellows, ending the threat quickly so that they can focus more on finding the Pharaoh and stopping his unknowable but sinister plan. At the very least, the armies will be distracted long enough for the other Sindari to bolster China's defenses or set up a more formidable trap.

Telepathically informing the other Sindari of his plan and to beware of any notched coins the Atlanteans may be carrying, Archaementes turned to do other tasks.

1 year spent gathering worshippers.

In case the Pharaoh succeeds in his hidden agenda, the Atlanteans crush China's defense despite his actions, or both, Archaementes figured that more helping hands is needed to solidify his hold on Greece so that he can then turn his gaze toward Gaul, Iberia, Germania, the British Isles, and other lands to the west. Needless to say, the Shrouded Dawn grew much larger.

Desired Effects:
Atlantis' armies suffer from madness caused by cursed coins.

10 X 3 Presence = 30 Skill 1 Citizens? = Total number of followers: 640 = +3 Attributes

Intelligence:10 Willpower:10 Presence:4

Family:
Herodias, Wife, Age: 29
Sophia, Daughter, Age: 9, 5/6 Sindari

Remaining Wealth/Assets: 92 gold and 8 silver.

((I noticed I made a mistake on calculating some skills, so I subtracted 1 from Bending/Teaching, and added that to my Nu-Sindari instead. Oops!))
During the Battle of Dragon's Tooth (Event (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=165151.msg7738088#msg7738088))

Amelia focused on fortifying and ensuring efficient durability of all aspects of the fortress--with her team of engineers and trusted foremen, she oversaw a focus into subtlety; improvements of the current design, alongside making any improvement not apparent to any invader. She tried to ensure that if ever this fortress would be taken, the enemy would pay dearly in doing so.

In the meantime, the two Nu-Sindari she had brought with her focused into their supporting roles: One, in organizing intelligence and scouting affairs, and the other focused into morale and aiding the common soldier.

During the battle, Amelia and her allied Nu-Sindari acted as fire support, using their mixture of martial arts and magic to provide relief and aid within the chaos of battle. If ever possible, it was cutting down those who fled that became a priority--any information should be denied to the Cisharni.

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 7th turn (10 year turn). 110 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

Quote from: Basic Details

Name: Amelia
Alias: The Builder
Appearance: Amelia will always appear as a young woman of varying sturdy build, with a light brown complexion, dark colored hair, and golden hued irises.
[In the 70th decade, she reappears as a young woman, having discarded the visage of age since her travel from overseas]
Class: Bandorin
Abilities:
+ Alchemy | This skill enables transmutation of material to other materials; as with all god-given skills, transmuted items may be sensed as magical.
+ Artificer | Amelia may create items that provide bonuses to attributes, or imbue items that will aid in certain tasks; based primarily on her enchanting skill, she is able to lessen time needed to imbue items, and can even imbue buildings and fortifications with potent magical characteristics.

Attributes:
Strength*:4
Agility:2
Intelligence*:16
Willpower*:10 [16]
Perception:2
Presence:2

Influence: 0
Followers (Not including Family/Worshippers): 20,380
Worshipers/Power: 7001; +10

Quote from: Wealth/Assets

> An elite scouting corps, headed by the imbued-Sindari Sirius, acts as pioneers of the field of information and reconnaissance.
> A full set of mundane-looking artificed armor and artificed quarterstaff
+45 Wealth modifier
10 Soul Gems [All set to be used for Artificer work]

> +10 Worship points invested into Artificer, with these details upgrading it:
- Able to apply Enchantment skill*2 into armor/weapons
- A full set of armor/weapons takes a week to artifice.
- I am able to add basic enchantments without using a soul gem (basic being anything that's subtle, like being on fire, small increase in attributes, non-overt characteristics that denote a magical item; until level 6 spellpower [WILL]) and enchantments that do use a soul gem are extremely difficult to burn out (requiring extreme circumstances)
- I am able to inset "God" level enchantments, utilizing a soul gem; this takes the same amount of time.

Quote from: Personal Connections

Family: 1
> Tala; Wife. Nu-Sindari since the 41st year (6/6) [69 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Alchemy
- Cooking 13; Administration 10; Persuasion 10; Herbalism 13; Teaching 13; Bending 6; Animal Training 4; Performance 3; Enchanting 7; Warding 2
Attributes:
Strength*:2
Agility:2
Intelligence*:12
Willpower*:8
Perception:2
Presence:2

> Malaya; Nu-Sindari since 98th year (6/6) [12 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Teleport: After an hour’s preparation, can teleport anywhere they, or a friendly Sindari, has gone.
- Herbalism 3; Ranger 2; Marksmanship 2; Doctor 2; Warding 2; Teaching 2
Attributes:
Strength:2
Agility*:4
Intelligence*:4
Willpower:2
Perception*:2
Presence:2

> Sirius; since 91st year (3/6) [19 years]
- Ranger 6; Leadership 6; Teaching 2; Stealth 3; Warding 2
Attributes:
Strength*:4
Agility:2
Intelligence*:4
Willpower*:2
Perception:2
Presence:2

Quote from: Skills

Engineering: 15 [Legendary+] **Bending: 15 [Legendary+] Mining: 13 [Legendary] Enchanting: 13 [Legendary] Persuasion: 13 [Legendary] Teaching: 13 [Grand Master] Scholar: 13 [Grand Master] Administration: 13 [High Master] Performance: 7 [Professional] Warding: 6 Diplomacy: 6 Doctor: 7 [Adept] **This is a combat skill, 'Bending' is a mixture of martial arts/magic

Quote from: Base

Aboveground
> A Developing Fortified City difficult to see from the skies is entrenched into a valley enclosure, where the entrance to the underground base starts. Terraced farmland paint the landscape of the mountain range. A Trade Company exists, with its many buildings set in a dedicated zone, with specialized buildings and facilities using and producing refined and dedicated tools for ease of use for the population. The whole area is particularly modernized for the time, with a road network and an information network spread out by the numerous academies around.
Underground
> The underground is a natural, hollowed cavern. Thoroughly mapped out, fault lines and danger zones are well-known due to Amelia's Bandorin insight--it can currently hold 100,000 people in full comfort to their needs, with graceful decorations and multiple facilities providing various amenities akin to wealthy above-ground structures and service areas. Recent adjustments enable both enchantment and engineering at a wider scale, making larger structures or expansion to be safely done.
- Defences within the underground encompass the local region, boasting refined teleportation blockers attuned to the Cisharni, with the long term refinement goal being subtle in their effect that renders such enchantment near impalpable to others' perceptions.
- Other defenses include the local Spirit of Harmony, alongside a Soul Gem network from the ancestors and renowned deceased of the population, with the network embedded on the cavern ceiling to reflect the skies and stars aboveground.
> Specialized quarters for the Sindari and their families/worshippers/followers exist within, providing a comfortable and stable climate within the mountain. A teleporter to the Japanese Empress' Castle is also present therein, acting as a transport of materials and personnel to Masamune's smithy.
> A Grand Temple is hewn from majestic rock, placed near an opening to the vale, where the moving winds create both music and an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. It is a place of general worship, housing a local Spirit of Harmony, which aids the local attitude and personal growth.
> A Soul Gem Network is taking root; structured to reflect the constellations of the skies, it is an artificial process to aid natural defenses and provide a pathway for both natural magic and the sentient energies of all people within.
General Area
> The archipelago of what is known to us as the Philippines is equivalent to a renaissance of learning and enlightenment. Academies are present in all inhabited islands, with the local ruling class being guided by wisdom from thoughtful and considerate advisors. Instead of monarchy, the archipelago is governed by a council created by the people, and for the people.
> Trade with China and Japan brings prosperity; refugees from war-torn areas in these places are openly welcomed. There are considerable measures in place to ensure that refugees are not Atlantean spies, and several measures are being devised and refined to further this plan--monoliths at sea, bordering the archipelago, are planned to prevent hostile teleportation.

Quote from: Other Notes

> The region my character is in, in our history is Ifugao (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ifugao#History).

***This world is of a similar, but different timeline than our own, having roots with physical and understandable magic as part of its physics and natural laws; one major indicator is the differing tech levels that equal an advance of society despite it being the relative BC period. (Map (12th century) (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/East-Hem_1200ad.jpg))

Year 110-111

Quote

I figure one way to do this is to ask some questions to see how this war shapes out. If you are doing something else that’s also fine

Japanese forces: 20,000
Chinese: 80,000
1. What is your general strategy? Do you work alone or lead? Do you fight for every inch of ground, or do you prefer ambushes?
2. Do you try to save Dragon’s Tooth? Or are you willing to give it up to preserve your forces?
3. Are you willing to die in this fight? You are immortal, after all, and there are many battles ahead that will need you. This determines how long you will stay in a battle before withdrawing

1. Amelia and her Nu-Sindari are generally support roles, despite being able to fight. They will fortify and reinforce, which generally falls under 'fighting for every inch of ground', and 'ambushes' (for the scouts and stealth)
2. Priority is saving Dragon's Tooth; given the support roll, reinforcing it to give it up at extreme costs is a priority too. We are willing to give it up for preservation.
3. Not willing at all to die.

Octavian serves as a scout for the allied forces. Though he started with little training in that area, his great ability to perceive things around him helped a great deal. He was able to locate 3 armies of Atlantis, 2 numbering around 30,000 and 1 of around 40,000. He was unable to gain more information before having to flee from the enemies own scouts.

The main supply route was heavily guarded, and had anti teleportation blocks set up on outposts and as part of the largest and most valuable shipments. Octavian believes that he could take a shipment and goods, but if a Cisharni was there he wouldn’t be able to escape.

Archaementes’ cursed coins were effective. The conscripts eagerly picked up the coins, as did a few Atlanteans. The Spartans cared little for material wealth and left them in the dust. After a few weeks, panic began to set in as soldiers began to go mad. For the Atlantean soldiers, the finest medical care was provided, and the curse was often able to be lifted before too much harm could be done. The conscripts were just as likely to be put down as cared for. The notched coins were discovered as the link, and warnings were sent out to beware coins and such found on the roads. The armies were delayed by several weeks, and the morale of the levies was impacted. Around half a thousand men died from the curse and its affects.

However, the greater impact of these coins spread far beyond the armies of Atlantis. The soldiers, having picked up these cursed coins, were quick to spend them in the towns and cities they passed through. There the coins passed from hand to hand, slipping through greasy palms. Madness spread like a disease through Persia, India, and other territories on the route to China. Fathers would turn on their families, mothers smothering children in their sleep, and brutality scarring towns as upstanding merchants turned savage. Many tried to help, but without Cisharni magic, few were able to defeat the Sindari curse. Word was spread from the army of “Sindari trickery”. No one really knew who the Sindari were, but many cursed them as they wept over the graves of those who were afflicted by the curse, and those they killed.

Amelia and her Nu-Sindari worked on reinforcing the fortress of Dragon’s Tooth, preparing it for the assault to come. What improvements were made over the course of the year? (Greater capacity, reinforced walls, traps, something else?)

A virulent disease swept through Allied armies and cities. It soon appeared after some Chinese and Japanese prisoners escaped from Atlantean armies. The disease took a terrific toll, killing most of those who became infected. Casualties are unknown, but commanders fear that it may be too deliberating if something isn’t done.

-Deadly disease spread through Allied army.
-From scouting, an opportunity to attack one of the 30,000 armies as they deal with the madness curse while marching through a forest. Won’t be able to bring more than 30,000 based on local forces. It might be a good idea to attack with few soldiers to maintain an element of surprise. Any Cisharni presence is unknown.

"Archaementes, I have something to discuss with you" Rigel said cheerfully, while flashing his most terrifying smile and notching an arrow.

I am one more disaster away from re-branding myself as a nature spirit... and non-fatally shooting whoever is responsible.

EDIT: non-fatal to us, the shot would likely be fatal to a non-immortal.

Octavian, making use of Acter's old teleportation about the Silk Road, teleports from major city to major city, conducting damage control on the madness curse while keeping a low profile to avoid Cisharni attention. There will be rumors, however - that the source of the cure is not "natural", nor is it Cisharni in nature.

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

Quote from: chubby2man on April 23, 2018, 11:17:26 am

1. What is your general strategy? Do you work alone or lead? Do you fight for every inch of ground, or do you prefer ambushes?
2. Do you try to save Dragon’s Tooth? Or are you willing to give it up to preserve your forces?
3. Are you willing to die in this fight? You are immortal, after all, and there are many battles ahead that will need you. This determines how long you will stay in a battle before withdrawing

1. I'm out of soul gems. So rebuilding my stockpile has to be my main focus. But I'll do what I can to guide and support our forces. Of course I'll also keep an eye open for when a change in weather would be to our advantage. When possible I prefer ambush and deception to strait up confrontation. We want to fight on our terms not theirs. But I will spend lives when needed to hold vital ground.

2. We probably can't keep Dragon's Tooth out of Cisharni hands forever, but if they want it they will have to pay full price.

3. Yes but it would have to make a major difference. It sounds selfish to say it but we Sindari are the only ones who can stop the Cisharni, and we cannot sell our lives cheaply.

While many of the other Sindari focus on this first threat, Turangol searches the future for hints of danger within China. He searches for the traces of the Pharaoh's plan....where it will take place...who will try to stop him...will they succeed...can this be prevented?

He will spend the entirety of the first year doing so, unless something interrupts him or another Sindari needs his help.

As these events and opportunities took place, the Atlantean army 40,000 strong marched to Dragon’s Tooth. They were laden with siege equipment and supplies. Sightings by scouts confirmed the presence of Apollo. They carry anti-teleportation blockers, so escape from the fortress via teleportation would be prevented unless they were brought down. (Do the Allied Forces set up their own teleportation blockers in the fortress?) The approaching army does have a thousand Spartans, a complement of mages, and roughly 10,000 Atlantean regulars. Additional Cisharni are unknown, but Rigel can confirm the Pharaoh is not present

The forces available are 6,000 in the fortress, 15,000 Japanese warriors, and 30,000 Chinese. The fortress has been moderately fortified (still needs to be decided how). Characters will need to decide between combating disease, attacking the other army, or assisting the fortress. If assisting the fortress, if your character stays know that it is extremely dangerous.

Turangol meditates on the future, but the war has cast dark shadows over every path. He sees everyone dead, a god cast down, a golden future, so many possibilities passing by in an instant. So much hangs on the siege, perhaps the clouds will clear enough for him to see once it takes place.

Quote from: chubby2man on April 26, 2018, 07:59:12 pm

Amelia and her Nu-Sindari worked on reinforcing the fortress of Dragon’s Tooth, preparing it for the assault to come. What improvements were made over the course of the year? (Greater capacity, reinforced walls, traps, something else?)

((I was waiting for responses but there were very few >_<))

Amelia knew that with the loss of the Spartan companies, the Cisharni would wise up. She reinforced the fortress with her prowess in magic--called the 'Builder' not just as a moniker--increasing the potency of traps, reinforcing the walls against magic via warding, and expanding the capacity with methods utilized from international acumen in the engineering arts. Through all these, however, her concern was the survivability of the common soldier; all those present were volunteers, and were vastly of a higher quality than the enemy, but the enemy had the Spartans, and the Cisharni...so her focus was distributed and focused more to magical warding.

Granted, many opportunities were in plain sight, she just had to refurbish them. Crenellations and fortifications became both tools for traps and for wards; she understood conventional methods of attack, and commonly a heavy withering strike would occur firsthand to soften the blow for a massed rush to breach. Hence, trapwork was the key--even magical traps, from adjusting the repositioning effects of hostile blinking (which did require attunement, or how a common man would say 'familiarity by proximity'), giving the defenders a literal 'home advantage' against the Spartans, and the ground under the presumed battlefield being sown with traps of various make, especially those simple enough to be passed over in both eye and in attention when the chaos of battle would come forth.

She knew the concept of retreat was alien to the people present; there would be none if it wasn't chosen. But retreat for the enemy proved worse, as it meant information for them to build upon. Thus, given the construction of the area, she arranged one last addition in what little time she had: A "Deadman's" Spell. There were those among her that stood by her, ready to die at great cost. This would be the trigger to signal their escape, and the switch to use the terrain as a final last obstacle and trap for the enemy (or either of them; she aimed to be practical with all 24 hours of the waking workday). It would be attuned to the Sindari present, and only to them.

A year seemed so quick in writing.

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

Wavebringer went to support the troops outside of Dragon's Tooth. He knew the fortress would likely fall, so he made sure he always had a path of retreat. But while he could he would defend against the enemy's magic and call down lightning on the Cisharni mages and Spartans.

Wavebringers soul gem budget:
5 gems reserved to cover his retreat.
Up to 30 gems for defensive and offensive magic.
Any remaining gems are to be stored where the other Sindari can get them if he dies.

Notable skills:
Counter magic 2
Counter counter magic 4
Lightning magic 13

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Rigel moved from Russia to China, staying in smoke form as he passed. As he found his way to the battle, he would momentarily stop at enemy encampments, always under cover of night, and he would do his best to ruin the enemy. His wolves had their fill of the enemy supplies, and ruined their equipment. Rigel released and sent off their pack and riding animals. Night guards would be found dead or wounded in the morning, and those alive, muttered about a monster made of darkness, who could kill with a thought, and appear out of thin air, as well as his wolves, five, terrifying jet black hounds that had the powers of their master. By the time he got part way to the battleground, he has picked up a new name. He was no longer The Hunter, he was The Grue.

Spend 1 year training fear magic, not to mention practical training from using it on soldiers.
Snuck from Russia to China, spend the time messing with Cisharni troops, once I get to the battle, he starts fighting, carefully avoiding Cisharni.

Notable skills:
Give me a moment, if I'm not done by the time this is updated, just check out my character sheet, but remember that smoke form gives a x2 to combat, is a lot faster now, and can use magic attacks, Rigel now wears a jet black cloak made of yeti fur that covers everything but his face, and a bone white mask with a scary wolf's face design, and the wolves are all jet black, with red eyes, in their prime, and bigger than normal wolves. Also, I can go in sand out of smoke form in a split second, and my force arrows are invisible and disappear after stopping movement for a couple seconds.

Turangol will move into China, far from the frontlines, and start searching the future of this war, looking for little moments that can help Sindari and Sindari forces in danger.

Quote from: chubby2man on April 23, 2018, 11:17:26 am

1. What is your general strategy? Do you work alone or lead? Do you fight for every inch of ground, or do you prefer ambushes?
2. Do you try to save Dragon’s Tooth? Or are you willing to give it up to preserve your forces?
3. Are you willing to die in this fight? You are immortal, after all, and there are many battles ahead that will need you. This determines how long you will stay in a battle before withdrawing

1. I will work with the existing forces, ensuring that all of their gear is as high of a quality as I can manage, and help with creating and reinforcing any fortifications that need it. Essentially, I will be trying to minimize our losses and maximize the cost of Cisharni forces pushing into our territory.
2. I'm willing to give it up should the battle turn hopeless.
3. No. Death would mean my artifacts falling into Cisharni hands.

The 2nd Battle of Dragon’s Tooth

Turangol scanned the future for the coming battle. It was chaotic, as fates twisted and tore as men will kill and die. Perhaps he could see enough to avert the death that lie in wait.

But a flash appeared. Prince Tal, meeting the Inquisitor. Betrayal echoed from that thread as former allies turned against the Sindari. Turangol is pulled out as he senses a disturbance.

A boat paddles to the island that Turangol meditated on. Turangol frowned, he had not seen the boat come today. A cowled man sat alone on the boat, two spears laying in front of him as he paddled ashore. Another scrutiny of the future revealed nothing.

The man came to the beach and strode up. His spears, made for throwing, were left in the boat. He raised his hands above his head, showing they were empty.

“Turangol, you should be more careful interacting with the future. By interacting and sharing what you learn, you change what happens. That change ripples out from you, making you easy to spot. “

“I have not come to harm you. The death of the Secondborn started this conflict. You posses the soul gem of his killer. As his brother, I demand that soul gem from you. Give it to me and I will not kill you for it. You are not responsible for his death, and I care not for this conflict. But the Secondborn was dear to me. “

What does Turangol do?

The allied army outside of Dragon’s Tooth was drawn off, given reports of a diveded enemy they could take advantage of. These reports were mistaken.
The main bulk of the allied forces crashed against a smaller Atlantean force. However, sizable detachments of Atlanteans were able to come in on the flanks. Gallant efforts by Amelia’s scouting core, Rigel, and the American warriors were able to delay them enough for the Allies to provide a response.

The Atlantean levies, conscripted from all over the empire, were being hard pressed by the hardened defenders of their homes and families. However, their core were elite Atlantean regulars, armed with fine weapons and blood enriched from intermingling with the Cisharni. Their only match were the elite soldiers that Masamune equipped with the best weapons and armor he could manage. But from the right flank emerges a host of calvary, headed by a man decked in golden armor, magic spilling from him in a faint imitation of the sun.

What do the Sindari do?

Allied Forces: 45,000 combined (-1000 casualties) + 2,000 braves
Atlantean: 40000 (-1500) levies have reduced morale from supply raids and night attacks

At Battle: Wavebringer, Rigel,

At Fortress: Masamune?, Amelia

Wherever Rigel went, death followed. Moving from engagement to engagement, arrows struck down leaders and champions, bringing discord to the ranks of Atlantis. His wolves followed close behind, jaws wet with blood.

In the chaos of battle it is hard to keep aware of ones surroundings. After bringing down a Spartan with an arrow through the throat, Rigel saw a woman, revealed by the fallen soldier. Her bow was drawn back, and an arrow flew harmlessly by Rigel’s head. Her eyes widened in shock, her mouth opening to form one word,

Orion.

A flood of half remembered memories and emotions washes over him. What does Rigel remember?

He recognizes the woman now, the Cisharni known as Artemis. Time seems to slow as her face hardens and her hand reaches back toward her quiver. Rigel can make the shot. He knew he probably wouldn’t get a second.
A. Kill her.
B. Let her kill you.

Quote from: chubby2man on May 07, 2018, 03:04:42 pm

What do the Sindari do?
At Fortress: Masamune?, Amelia

Other than the many things required to be done before, Amelia focused on one thing--survival for them, and those she and her Nu-Sindari could spare. Malaya was prepared to teleport at a moment's notice, being aided by one of her soulgems, while the scout-commander was given instructions alongside the most loyal of troops to cause diversions in aiding retreat. For herself, she did her best in keeping their side of magic well-supplied and reinforced, while keeping out hostile magic and possible teleportation or blinking from striking crucial positions (or weakening any retreat).

Through all these years, Amelia hoped her preparations in magic and her unique abilities would do effort. It was also of great importance to ensure that none of Masamune's works fell into enemy hands; she tried to prepare and ward them to his aid, in his time.

Since you know who I am, who the dead ones are, and who you are, it seems only fair if you share who you are with me.

PTW

The Cisharni nods, “ I am The Hunter.” He extends his hand.

“I will offer you this. Give me the soul gem of the Secondborn’s killer, and I will give you a chance at the Cisharni known as Red Dawn. He killed a Sindari, correct?”

[Acter’s spirit chimes in across the mental link] Yes he did. It was painful.

Quote from: Glass on May 16, 2018, 02:50:41 pm

[Acter’s spirit chimes in across the mental link] Yes he did. It was painful.

"Also he was a jerk. Just went in, called him Brother, then slapped a metric ton of force to everyone around, not caring for any actual communication. Although, best for you to ask why: All of us are watching from you--issue the assumption to him, too. Also ask what he'll do with it since there's open communication."

I'd suggest you make the soul gem able to be detonated as need be. This is a very good deal. If he is telling the truth, we lose one soul gem, and they lose one Cisharni. We come out on top.

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

The man in the gold armour was likely Apollo. If he could be killed or injured that would probably deal quite a blow to Atlantian moral. They might even break altogether.

Wavebringer will strike the rider with a 7 gem lightning bolt, then use another 7 gems for a barrage of lesser bolts aimed at Atlantian officers and other sources of order in the enemy ranks.

Notable skills:
Counter magic 2
Counter counter magic 4
Lightning magic 13

Why do I always forget that you are the most likely out of us to stab a person you are hugging in the back?

It is because you do not see me often. Now, I have to get back to my own conflict.

Rigel steeled his gaze, he knew what he had to do, and what would happen if he could not. He released his force arrow, letting it fly into his lady's hand, passing through it and then hitting her arm, shattering the bone. Nothing fatal, but enough to take her out of the fight. "I'm sorry milady, but you would have done the same" he whispered under his breath, and then transformed himself into a cloud of smoke, and flew off.

2nd battle for Dragon’s Tooth

The Hunter waited for a moment before speaking again.
“This is not a request. Give me the soul gem. “

Spoiler: Rolls (click to show/hide)

B

Artemis growled as the bow was flung from her hand. Her vambrace glowed as it absorbed some of the energy of Orion’s attack.
He attacked her. The Orion she knew was truly lost.

She leapt forward as Orion’s body turned into smoke. Her dagger, forged by Gromfin and personally enchanted, blazed through his smoke form, turning smoke into blood. Her enhanced eyes spotted weak points and slashed furiously away.

Unable to sustain smoke form any longer, Rigel collapsed. His blood flowed across the ground. Artemis was there, her dagger pressed against his throat. His mask has fallen off as he stared into her eyes. There is no mercy there. Does he say anything before the end?

Spoiler: Rolls (click to show/hide)

Using every ounce of skill he honed through decades of training, Wavebringer poured wrath on the Atlantean army. Bolts of lightening crashed into captains and generals. An absolutely massive bolt of lightening slammed into the rider in gold. Dust was thrown up, and the results were concealed as the calvary charge stopped.

Apollo stood, his armor singed. That lightening bolt would have pierced his shield had his armor not immediately reinforced in in response to the attack. He would probably have to replace at least one of his soul gems. He eyed the source of the attack, and raised his hand and his will. From his belt of soul gems he drew upon 5 of them to power his counter attack.
A beam of pure fire erupted and speared towards Wavebringer. He mustered his soul in countering the magic, but it was no match for the wiles of the Cisharni. Wavebringer was consumed by the fire, and drops to the ground, flesh horribly burned. Does he survive and risk capture, or does he pass on?

Waves of fire swept through the Allied ranks. Men scattered and fled as the fury of Apollo was unleashed. At the end of the day thousands of both sides lay dead on the battlefield, but only the army of Atlantis remained. With a large loss of leadership, they had to take time to regroup and reorganize.

Casualties:Allied 35,000, 1,500 braves (Out of 45,000 and 2,000)
Atlantean 12,000 (out of 40,000) large proportion of leadership post, levies have low morale.

I'm sorry Milady, but you know when I swear an oath, I will keep it. I have known these people as my family for far longer than I ever lived as your hunter. I simply wish that you know, that I knew you wouldn't die from that, you're tough milady, and... and... I think I might have... loved you. It seems silly now. You know, it seems only right you were the one to take me down. I always assumed it I would take one hunt too many, and it appears I was right. If you can do one thing for me, please, bury my body in the wild, It's where I belong, and... please, leave this fight. If you can take Apollo with you, do so, but please, let my death be the one to end it, don't kill any more of my family. I don't want any infighting in my pack.

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

Kaito lay on the burnt ground. He could feel the boundary between life and death, it would be so easy to cross over and leave this war behind. But he wasn't ready to leave his family, his wife and children, his brothers and sister.

His best chance would be to try and pass as one of the fallen. As he prepared to lie unmoving until the Atlantians left, his lips moved in a silent spell changing his armour and belongings to appear as those of a common soldier and making his wounds look even worse then they truly were, his face burned beyond recognition.

Having done all he could to prepare, the wait began. If they did find him he would do what he could to ensure they couldn't take him alive. He preyed it wouldn't come to that.

Wavebringer slowly got to his feet. After waiting a day, the armies had moved on. Night fell as he stumbled away, evading patrols that searched for any surviving enemies. He made his way back into friendly territory, and into safety.

Rigel’s mental link went blank after his words to Artemis, but it didn’t appear that he died. It seemed likely that the Sindari was captured.

The army of Atlantis came to Dragon’s Tooth. Torn banners and tired men could be spied upon from the walls of the fortress. Traps laid slowed their advance as engineers from Atlantis carefully checked ahead of them.

A man with a white banner rode to the front of the approaching army. He waved it above his head then waited. Prince Tal looks to Amelia and Masamune for advice on how to deal with the envoy. He believes he should meet with the envoy, but is wary of a trap.

Octavian and Acter both thoroughly approve of meeting the envoy. Meet them with caution, yes, but definitely meet them.

"Send a messenger with an offer. We shall meet in a neutral place between the two forces; one of us should bodyguard you, along with. . . ten of your most trusted men. The Cisharni should send an equivalent party. Should either side come in more force, the other should retreat immediately.

I fear a trap as you do, but if it is possible to end this without bloodshed, it should be done."

The messenger returns with the envoy’s agreement to the terms suggested by Masamune.

Who will accompany the group?

Octavian is willing to volunteer.

Prince Tal, with Octavian and 10 men, rode to meet the delegation of Atlantis. They met on a windswept hilltop an equal distance from both sides.

An armored man with a black cloak headed the delegation, though an Atlantean general also accompanied them. Octavian recognized the cloaked man as the Inquisitor.

Introductions between Prince Tal and General Emries were made. The Inquisitor simply stared at Octavian.
The General offered his terms. The Dragon Emperor would offer massive tribute and hostages in exchange for peace and assistance with the plague sweeping through the country. He paused and gave a final point. Exile of the Sindari from their lands.

Prince Tal turned to Octavian and quietly asks for his thoughts.

[quietly] "Tal, I believe you can see what I can see here. They're trying to split us up and weaken China, so they can take the country at their leisure later on. They're starting at their extreme, so if we want to negotiate effectively, we'll have to start at ours. Tell them the border stays where it is, that the Sindari stay, and that you're not paying them any reparations or giving them any hostages. If they try to contest anything, I have proof that it was the Cisharni that started the plague that I can bring out, among other things. We're probably going to have to give up some things in the end, but we're going to make them give up just as much of what they wanted in turn, if not more.
The war rages as hard at a peace delegation as on a battlefield, Prince."

Notable stats: 16 Presence, 12 Perception, 13 Diplomacy, 13 Trading (hey, we're trading concessions, it counts).
Notable details: Everything Tiruin brought up in this post. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=165141.msg7774957#msg7774957)

Prince Tal appeared slightly reassured of Octavian’s words. He returned with his counter offer rejecting all of their demands.

The general scoffed. “ We crushed your army in the field, and we will destroy all those who face us. We will keep what we d gestured off tohave conquered, and you will give us tribute for not destroying you now, and hostages to guarantee good behavior.”

The Inquisitor looked at Octavian and gestured off to the side. His blank eyes revealed nothing as he spoke so that with your enhanced perception only you could hear.

“We should discuss an arrangement of our own, Sindari. We have wasted enough energy fighting when together, we can rule this world. We can teach and mentor you as we bring this world into a golden age. We are stronger, there is no point to fruitlessly struggling against us.”

Octavian responds in a similarly inaudible manner.
"I don't believe you understand us, Inquisitor. We have no desire to rule the world. To bring it into a golden age is a desirable goal, but it should be the mortals that do so, with our guidance and teachings, so that they can become as great as we are.
Aside from that, we are sworn to avenge the murder of Sind. But many of us would much rather you reform your ways, step into the role you were made for. Champions and protectors of the people, not conquerors and subjugators of the masses.
There is so much good Cisharni and Sindari together could do if you would listen to the will of the people rather than bending them to your will."

The Inquisitor chuckles,

“The will of the people? They are to us as they are to sheep. With a mere thought I could bend these men to my will. They struggle and fight among themselves, bringing war and poverty with each blunder they make. Cisharn made us better, and while you Sindari are imitations made by a vengeful Sind, the people will be better off under our hands.”

Octavian made note of the Inquisitor’s misstatement - saying that he and the Cisharni were like sheep - but made no outward expression of his amusement.

“I will not argue that mortals can be foolish, but they strive to better themselves. What they need is guidance, not total control; champions to lead them, not masters to drive them like cattle.
Besides, you claim all the Cisharni are so much better, but does not the Pharoah and his plans raise concerns among your ranks? When the mortals make mistakes, there are consequences, but when we do, those consequences are so much worse, and it is not us alone that bear the burden of our follies.
The people will be better off with our hands behind them, guiding them, not over them, ready to strike. Show them what their weaknesses are, and help them to overcome. That is how we may usher in a golden era.”

(Ahh geez, now I can’t go back and fix that mistake :P )

The Inquisitor’s face remained impassive. “It is a pity that you won’t open your eyes to the truth. If you won’t face reason, why should we suffer your attempts to undermine the empire we are building any longer?”

"I hadn't been of the impression that you had.
It's clear that neither of us is going to convince the other. I'm sorry.
May we have the privilege to meet again in a kinder age."

The Inquisitor gave a tight smile in reply. He looked at the General Emries and nodded. The General finished, "Either you will accept our offer, or we will take this fortress and with it the rest of your Empire!"

Prince Tal angrily replied "I will take your offer to the Dragon Emperor. If he finds your terms favorable we will inform you."

With that both parties nodded, and begun to ride back to their side.

The party rides back to the fortress, hearts heavy. The Atlanteans drop the teleportation block over the fortress for a day, to allow for messages to be sent. Prince Tal asks Octavian to deliver the offer to the Dragon Emperor. He doesn’t know if he will take it. If he doesn’t, it is likely that the fortress will be taken, and then the terms of peace could be much worse. He asks for all the Sindari’s opinion.

Amelia, Masamune, and Octavian are at the fortress currently. This may be the last chance to teleport away. Does your character leave, and if they stay what is their plan if the fortress is attacked (fight as long as possible, try to flee, etc.)

Octavian will deliver the offer.
I'd like to know if said offer changed at all between when the Inquisitor and I started and ended our discussion, however.

No, the offer didn’t change. They see themselves as holding the power in this situation, and didn’t feel the need to change their terms.

Also, when Octavian meets with the Emperor, he will inform him of the situation with the Pharaoh, and the fact that this Cisharni apparently needs to be able to use one of three certain temples/holy areas/whatever they were that are presently in Chinese territory in order to complete their ritual to do Something Bad^TM, and then ask what the Emperor thinks should be done about this.

Masamune set to work; it was possible to maintain the fort as long as possible and still escape, if only he could work out the correct enchantment in time. . .

Masamune will delay as long as possible so he can work on an enchantment that counteracts the teleportation blockers that the Cisharni use; should he not create one in time he'll take the offer and teleport out. He's using 13 Enchanting and 10 Damping magic to do this, and he has 10 Willpower and 8 Intelligence.

Octavian will teleport out any Sindari that wish to be evacuated.

Noting the single day of retrieving the dead, and the open teleblockers that gave an opportunity to escape...

Amelia does not decide to escape at the moment--instead staying and holding the fortress, relaying to Masamune to study the teleblockers to break their 'code' for a quick escape later with Octavian, and for Octavian to bring them directly to the Chinese Emperor to explain the situation (alongside WHY the Sindari are not letting the Chinese into the Cisharni hands, especially because of Serrana's information about having infiltrated China).

Instead she coordinates an organized evacuation, given that the siege will take long with her skill in engineering having reinforced the whole fortress, and in the later moments, priming the whole area to explode, utilizing both her enchantment skill and engineering expertise. She hopes her works will also change the terrain, collapsing entry areas of the whole pass, and disabling long range teleportation from the Cisharni lands. Using Masamune's ranged weapons to great effectiveness, she also ensures that none of his works are collectable by the enemy, and uses Chinese warfare culture to aid the soldiers against these greater numbers (deception like crafted enchanted dummies, the weather, or terrain, to beleaguer morale.

Her Nu-Sindari also aid with their skills--a scout commander and a teleporting Nu-Sindari.

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 7th turn (10 year turn). 110 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

Quote from: Basic Details

Name: Amelia
Alias: The Builder
Appearance: Amelia will always appear as a young woman of varying sturdy build, with a light brown complexion, dark colored hair, and golden hued irises.
[In the 70th decade, she reappears as a young woman, having discarded the visage of age since her travel from overseas]
Class: Bandorin
Abilities:
+ Alchemy | This skill enables transmutation of material to other materials; as with all god-given skills, transmuted items may be sensed as magical.
+ Artificer | Amelia may create items that provide bonuses to attributes, or imbue items that will aid in certain tasks; based primarily on her enchanting skill, she is able to lessen time needed to imbue items, and can even imbue buildings and fortifications with potent magical characteristics.

Attributes:
Strength*:4
Agility:2
Intelligence*:16
Willpower*:10 [16]
Perception:2
Presence:2

Influence: 0
Followers (Not including Family/Worshippers): 20,380
Worshipers/Power: 7001; +10

Quote from: Wealth/Assets

> An elite scouting corps, headed by the imbued-Sindari Sirius, acts as pioneers of the field of information and reconnaissance.
> A full set of mundane-looking artificed armor and artificed quarterstaff
+45 Wealth modifier
10 Soul Gems [All set to be used for Artificer work]

> +10 Worship points invested into Artificer, with these details upgrading it:
- Able to apply Enchantment skill*2 into armor/weapons
- A full set of armor/weapons takes a week to artifice.
- I am able to add basic enchantments without using a soul gem (basic being anything that's subtle, like being on fire, small increase in attributes, non-overt characteristics that denote a magical item; until level 6 spellpower [WILL]) and enchantments that do use a soul gem are extremely difficult to burn out (requiring extreme circumstances)
- I am able to inset "God" level enchantments, utilizing a soul gem; this takes the same amount of time.

Quote from: Personal Connections

Family: 1
> Tala; Wife. Nu-Sindari since the 41st year (6/6) [69 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Alchemy
- Cooking 13; Administration 10; Persuasion 10; Herbalism 13; Teaching 13; Bending 6; Animal Training 4; Performance 3; Enchanting 7; Warding 2
Attributes:
Strength*:2
Agility:2
Intelligence*:12
Willpower*:8
Perception:2
Presence:2

> Malaya; Nu-Sindari since 98th year (6/6) [12 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Teleport: After an hour’s preparation, can teleport anywhere they, or a friendly Sindari, has gone.
- Herbalism 3; Ranger 2; Marksmanship 2; Doctor 2; Warding 2; Teaching 2
Attributes:
Strength:2
Agility*:4
Intelligence*:4
Willpower:2
Perception*:2
Presence:2

> Sirius; since 91st year (3/6) [19 years]
- Ranger 6; Leadership 6; Teaching 2; Stealth 3; Warding 2
Attributes:
Strength*:4
Agility:2
Intelligence*:4
Willpower*:2
Perception:2
Presence:2

Quote from: Skills

Engineering: 15 [Legendary+] **Bending: 15 [Legendary+] Mining: 13 [Legendary] Enchanting: 13 [Legendary] Persuasion: 13 [Legendary] Teaching: 13 [Grand Master] Scholar: 13 [Grand Master] Administration: 13 [High Master] Performance: 7 [Professional] Warding: 6 Diplomacy: 6 Doctor: 7 [Adept] **This is a combat skill, 'Bending' is a mixture of martial arts/magic

Quote from: Base

Aboveground
> A Developing Fortified City difficult to see from the skies is entrenched into a valley enclosure, where the entrance to the underground base starts. Terraced farmland paint the landscape of the mountain range. A Trade Company exists, with its many buildings set in a dedicated zone, with specialized buildings and facilities using and producing refined and dedicated tools for ease of use for the population. The whole area is particularly modernized for the time, with a road network and an information network spread out by the numerous academies around.
Underground
> The underground is a natural, hollowed cavern. Thoroughly mapped out, fault lines and danger zones are well-known due to Amelia's Bandorin insight--it can currently hold 100,000 people in full comfort to their needs, with graceful decorations and multiple facilities providing various amenities akin to wealthy above-ground structures and service areas. Recent adjustments enable both enchantment and engineering at a wider scale, making larger structures or expansion to be safely done.
- Defences within the underground encompass the local region, boasting refined teleportation blockers attuned to the Cisharni, with the long term refinement goal being subtle in their effect that renders such enchantment near impalpable to others' perceptions.
- Other defenses include the local Spirit of Harmony, alongside a Soul Gem network from the ancestors and renowned deceased of the population, with the network embedded on the cavern ceiling to reflect the skies and stars aboveground.
> Specialized quarters for the Sindari and their families/worshippers/followers exist within, providing a comfortable and stable climate within the mountain. A teleporter to the Japanese Empress' Castle is also present therein, acting as a transport of materials and personnel to Masamune's smithy.
> A Grand Temple is hewn from majestic rock, placed near an opening to the vale, where the moving winds create both music and an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. It is a place of general worship, housing a local Spirit of Harmony, which aids the local attitude and personal growth.
> A Soul Gem Network is taking root; structured to reflect the constellations of the skies, it is an artificial process to aid natural defenses and provide a pathway for both natural magic and the sentient energies of all people within.
General Area
> The archipelago of what is known to us as the Philippines is equivalent to a renaissance of learning and enlightenment. Academies are present in all inhabited islands, with the local ruling class being guided by wisdom from thoughtful and considerate advisors. Instead of monarchy, the archipelago is governed by a council created by the people, and for the people.
> Trade with China and Japan brings prosperity; refugees from war-torn areas in these places are openly welcomed. There are considerable measures in place to ensure that refugees are not Atlantean spies, and several measures are being devised and refined to further this plan--monoliths at sea, bordering the archipelago, are planned to prevent hostile teleportation.

Quote from: Other Notes

> The region my character is in, in our history is Ifugao (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ifugao#History).

***This world is of a similar, but different timeline than our own, having roots with physical and understandable magic as part of its physics and natural laws; one major indicator is the differing tech levels that equal an advance of society despite it being the relative BC period. (Map (12th century) (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/East-Hem_1200ad.jpg))

Octavian and Amelia stand before the Dragon Emperor in his great hall. His great length lays coiled around the dais, upon which stands an ornate throne. His scales glow gold in the light.

Octavian informs the Dragon of Atlantis’s offer, which consists of surrender of territory they conquered, payment of a massive tribute, exchange of hostages, and the exile of the Sindari in exchange for peace and assistance with the plague.

Steam rises from his nostrils at this. He growls, “These terms are not to my liking, but my generals are afraid, and worry we do not have the strength to beat them. What are your thoughts on the matter?”

Octavian also tells him of the Pharoah’s plan to infiltrate one of the nexus of magical energy in China, and that disaster of an unknown form would result. The Dragon Emperor eyes narrow.

“My duty over these lands are to protect these nexus. You have done well to bring this to my attention.”

I do not like their terms either, but Prince Tal was not able to negotiate them lower at all, so it's either the terms or continued warfare. Based on the events of the recent battle, I would have to agree with your generals.
However, Masamune is of the opinion that he should be able to hold the fort. It would likely be best to let him inform you of how he plans to do so.
[Octavian is willing to channel Masamune through the mental link for this purpose.]

Regarding the nexuses. I understand that it is your duty to protect them, but we are reasonably certain that if the locations were destroyed, the Pharaoh would be unable to conduct his rituals. It is certainly a situation that is far less than ideal, but if it should come to the point where we don't believe we could stop them, would we have permission to destroy the nexuses to prevent them falling into Cisharni hands?
I promise, I ask this only as a worst-case, last-resort hypothetical. If we figure out another way, or if you have a way to stop the rituals or prevent their use, we will gladly avoid using this method.

Quote from: chubby2man on June 05, 2018, 01:34:41 pm

Steam rises from his nostrils at this. He growls, “These terms are not to my liking, but my generals are afraid, and worry we do not have the strength to beat them. What are your thoughts on the matter?”

"Masamune and I- we will hold the fort and study as much as we can. We have studied as much in retrospect."

Amelia then mentions her last resort plan regarding the fortress--if it would fall, given her year's work on it, it would be disastrous for anyone who had not lived in the area for an extensive period of time; she had 'keyed' in familiarity using her knowledge of biology from her Doctor skill, that would end in mayhem and explosion alongside requiring a manual trigger.

"We also...through our brothers, have information regarding what may occur with important people within your ranks. Otherwise, the Sindari do not plan or think about leaving you or your people. You have seen our culture, our origins, our people, and our lands through trade and exposure. We hold thought alien to the Cisharni, and their power lies mainly in their logistics--teleporters and teleblockers. You may also pull back your Generals, we can cover their retreat, as I will in defense of the Fang; I will ensure that there is a way for evacuation, instead of death in vain."

She lets Octavian fill the gaps about the Nexuses instead, and awaits his answer, all the while being very aware about Turangol's situation.

The Dragon considered their words, and shook his head. “You tell me you may hold the fort in one breath and in the next tell me that you have prepared to destroy it. After it is destroyed, then what? Let their armies and disease ravage the land, taking what they asked for and more? Tell me otherwise if you believe me mistaken!”

"After it is destroyed, we fall back to the second lines, all the while preparing a counter-strike on their logistics after having studied their teleportation networks. The diseases are connected, at least in my assumption, to the one called Apollo--a gilded general leading their armies. They cause wanton destruction and yet levy the burden on us as if we are the cause; this is not so, they speak with the mind of a ravishing conqueror, who cannot hold their lands through stable governance. They have levies who are fearful and lack the morale of our troops. While this is the front line, you have the support of nations much more powerful in potential than they have, and their lines are being stretched. We will not leave your people alone; we can and will relocate those in danger from the front line. Preparations are being planned as we speak.
"As for planning--we have several options, one of which will happen regardless. Armor, for yourself, Emperor. Much like Apollo is a Cisharni leading his forces (and actually, the only reason his forces are not breaking under morale), the leaders of the Chinese people fighting in the midst of battle in sight of their fellows inspires strength. With your command, we will extend our smithing lines to avail your officers or other important personnel of what is needed. Aside from that, and the evacuation of the surrounding countryside, we ask your permission for herblore to take place; the trade you have made with Japan, Korea, and the lands I hail from has brought about numerous breeds of healing and agricultural blooms--those to be relocated can stay in areas cultivating them for the meantime, and transplant much back into your lands when the war has seceded. Aside from that, I have prepared knowledge from a Cisharni spy within your lands in the decades prior; she is alive and has been...how you say, 'turned', helping us with information. This includes information valuable to you; not all those within your country are loyal, and this is only because they do not know what the bigger picture they deal with is. Petty bribes, and promises of information, alongside propaganda are prevalent to turn shifting loyalty. Short-term sightedness is the fall of any nation. Their terms are extreme, because they aim to goad others to kneel to their demands. We did not abandon you before--why even think we would start now?

"Now, you see only two of us Sindari before you--we outnumber the Cisharni; this is why they want us out of any lands we are in, because of our influence. Unlike the Cisharni, our power is grows, where theirs do not; we may appear weak, but we are of a time and place beyond mortal knowledge. Our aims are progress, and we wish for you to think this through, rather than dwell on us saying a fortress is lost when we can hold it and going 'against ourselves'. We have earned much through trade; many can learn more from culture.

"In truth, we all want peace, and our terms were all for it--but we do not wish for more to go into their hands only for them to use what they have in stagnation. We know how they run their empire, and ultimately it ends with little benefit for the people in comparison to them; the choice is yours in the end."

The Dragon Emperor slowly shook his head. “You are wise and brave, Sindari, but my responsibility is to protect my people. We will accept their peace deal. The Sindari are our best chance to survive, so we will not abandon you. Become stronger, weaken them from within. When it is time to march, we will march with you.”

He closed his eyes. “The Nexus Points are an incredibly valuable resource. The Pharaoh could do much evil if he was able to access it. However, I cannot allow its destruction for it would cause to much damage to our land. Rivers would dry and life would leave this land. “

“Stay strong, Sindari.”

Turangol woke with a start. The Hunter was nowhere to be seen. Perhaps it was just a dream or vision. He searched his possessions for the soul gem of Eltirian, but he couldn’t find it. His head pained him. A quick scan of the future revealed no danger, but gave no signs of the Hunter.

Dragon’s Tooth remained in the Emperor’s hands, while the Atlantean army withdrew slightly to receive the tribute.

Meanwhile, during the night, Chinese soldiers burst into the room of Masamune. Swords drawn, the 4 of them rushed the now wide awake Sindari.

Amelia turned as 3 soldiers entered her study, interrupting her discussion with local nobles. Their faces were blank and full of terrible purpose.

2 men and a woman approached Octavian as he walked quickly across the battlements. They held up a hand to ask him to stop. They seemed vaguely familiar.

"Good day sirs, to what do I owe this pleasure?" Amelia said casually, appearing in a humble dress (because she was honestly tidying up for the leave come ere dawn).

Hello soldiers!
...How fares my Nu Sindari for the escape?

Masamune, Octavian, I believe I have met our...escort out? Can any of you ensure we have contact and protection on the Emperor?

Octavian comes - leisurely, over the course of a couple seconds - to a stop. Invisible to the oncomers, Acter finds a place where he can blast them all with a ray of pain if the situation should call for it.
Very well. Who are you, what do you need, and why do you need it? Use my Presence to convince them to answer, and my Perception to read between the lines of their responses.

Masamune stood quickly but calmly, settling into a comfortable defensive stance as he took up his blade; he wouldn't allow it to leave his side, of course. "You are fortunate that I am a patient and understanding man," he said to his would-be assassins, even as he moved to intercept the strike of the first. A parry, and a cut; not at the man, but at his weapon. Chinese steel clattered to the floor as his blade, forged into what Masamune considered to be the closest extant thing to perfection, slashed cleanly through the base of the weapon.

The second and third soldier were vanquished at once, with the Lord of the Blacksmiths simply seizing one in his off hand and throwing him bodily into the other, causing both soldiers to clatter to the floor. The first seemed to be recovering from the shock of having his weapon destroyed, so Masamune delivered a kick strong enough to dent the man's chestplate, slamming him into the wall. The Sindari winced; the man should survive, but he couldn't guarantee such a thing; he had neglected his unarmed martial arts. The fourth had his weapon removed in a similar matter to the first. Masamune followed up with a set of blurring cuts; the man's helmet fell apart around him, with only a single tuft of hair floating to the ground alongside the shards. The blade held to his throat made it quite clear what awaited him should he displease Masamune.

"Who sent you?"

As he made preparations for the next steps of his agenda beginning in Year Three, Archaementes continued to listen in on whatever reports the other Sindari sent through the mental network they shared. However, when he'd heard from Amelia that this 'Dragon Emperor' decided to accept the Atlanteans' accursed peace treaty, he knew that he have to do something about this. If the Cisharni and the Chinese stopped fighting each other, the way to Korea, Japan, and the rest of Southeast Asia will be open to them. Though the Atlantean Empire would be stretched thin, it will only be a matter of time before they managed to consolidate their holdings and authority, just as they have to the Mediterranean area, the Middle East, and India. Even if he failed to convince the Dragon Emperor to continue the fight, at least he can help him establish 'plausible deniability' to subversive Sindari activities happening within his empire.

~"Amelia, my dear Sindari sister, allow me to have a word with the Dragon Emperor,"~ he 'spoke' through the mental link. ~"I am quite... adept in persuading all but the most unyielding. Have Octavian teleport me to the Imperial Palace and I will have the emperor see reason."~

Quote from: Sir Elventide on June 18, 2018, 10:43:02 pm

~"Amelia, my dear Sindari sister, allow me to have a word with the Dragon Emperor,"~ he 'spoke' through the mental link. ~"I am quite... adept in persuading all but the most unyielding. Have Octavian teleport me to the Imperial Palace and I will have the emperor see reason."~

I'm a bit tied up with a few soldiers here I guess. I see Masamune took care of his own...somehow. I'm unsure if this is our escort out but it seems a bit testy.

Still! I'm sure Octavian knows now. I still have more to discuss with the Emperor regarding battleplans given his troops thanks to a very certain thought but it may be too late now!

Masamune held the blade to the soldiers throat, not even winded by the display. The man’s eyes held a blankness, and his response was to ram himself into the blade.

Or tried to.

Masamune, seeing his intention, shifted his blade and slammed his elbow into the soldier’s face. With a crunch of cartilage, the man crumpled backwards.

The fight was over. Alarmed guards ran around outside, and stopped at the sight of Masamune standing over the bodies of Chinese warriors.

The three soldiers made no response to Amelia as they approached, and the lead soldier lunges forward with a dagger. Amelia reacted, her arm a blur as she deflected the attack to the side and slipped behind him. The other two drew their swords, their faces blank.

The woman stepped forward. “Know this, Sindari. Surrender your selfs to Atlantis, or our war will create even more rivers of blood and countless pain. Your struggle against us will bear a heavy price if it persists any longer. And it will not be borne by you alone.”
At this the other two soldiers draw their swords, and prepare to fall on their swords. The woman leaps at Octavian, a dagger in her hands.

Quote

Archaementes pursed his lips in slight disappointment. ~"Very well, dear sister, I will remain where I am. Know that the Dragon Emperor's decision is folly and will only delay the inevitable."~

Amelia's surprise was easily concealed as she had backup plans in store.

"Blank eyes. Your will is not your own!"

She quickly swiped something off her desk and given that nothing of importance was present, yelled the cliche "Guards! Guards!" notice, before sprinting (slowly) away. Perhaps her Nu-Sindari could do some wingman work, and perhaps some clean up, before they were to teleport out.

She was no speedy person and was only as strong perceptibly as a...very strong soldier-clerk, but she had many preparations in cases like these thanks to foresight ~~and psychology~~. She used the objects around her to block and throw in the way of her attackers, calling out the word Freedom and China and other things people say when frantically attacked by blank faced men. The first word was code for her Nu-Sindari teleported to meet her at one of the designated points nearby (like inconspicuously behind a corner or a pillar or an enchanted plant-tree) which could mask both the magic and physical disappearance. All these were planned ahead of time, with code spoken in poetic hysterics.

She was glad she took up the arts and acting. She inferred that perhaps, maybe, those soldiers were eyes of whoever held thrall over them. It had to be overtly mundane...

Amelia uses no form of display that she's a Sindari but aims to disarm and disable them.
She grabs one of her recording disks and calls upon her Nu-Sindari to teleport her out of there (preferably to the Emperor) alongside the scout commander to take care of these men or investigate what had happened.

Hello proof for the emperor for dirty tactics!

Quote from: Sir Elventide on June 19, 2018, 11:00:16 am

Archaementes pursed his lips in slight disappointment. ~"Very well, dear sister, I will remain where I am. Know that the Dragon Emperor's decision is folly and will only delay the inevitable."~

Rulers make decisions for the people. Pressed between his capabilities and the common man; we would have decided the same if it were our own and against...some foreign alien power.

That said, Masamune? Get those teleblocker countermeasures charged!

Dodge. Their skill with weapons cannot compare to my skill at survival. Continue until my opponents are winded.
Furthermore, call attention to the situation, so that others can see what has happened, and get one of those recording disks Amelia mentioned.

Quote from: Tiruin on June 19, 2018, 11:29:17 am

Rulers make decisions for the people. Pressed between his capabilities and the common man; we would have decided the same if it were our own and against...some foreign alien power.

~"Would we?"~ came back the answer. It sounded incredulous. ~"Fortunately, our enemies seek to rule rather than turning this world into a hellish realm, unlike one of their number. Then again, if an alien power does in fact want to turn this world into a living nightmare then a dying defiance could be the only thing keeping us from a fate worse than death..."~

"They should survive, though it may be wise to consult a healer anyway." Masamune belted his weapon to his side - ensuring he showed the lack of blood on it in the process. "It seems our honorable Cisharni cousins have chosen to leave us some parting gifts at your people's expense. These men were compelled into attacking me while I slept; it seems the Inquisitor wished to send a message, more than anything else." The smith looked down, a slight look of shame playing across his face. "I am sorry that this seems to be the way of things."

Amelia evaded her attackers, throwing scrolls and loose stones crying out for guards and words like “Freedom!” And “China!” Guards soon rushes in and fought the attackers and killed them. Amelia went to her Nu-Sindari, who had begun the charging process. They hunkered down as they waited.

Octavian easily avoided the attack, sending her stumbling away. The other two soldiers collapsed as they fell on their swords. The woman got to her feet and turned back to Octavian. Her eyes seemed to clear, then widened in horror at the sight of the two dying soldiers. She fell to her knees as the memories flood back.

Prince Tal was horrified when he was brought the news of the attack. He quarantined the 6 remaining soldiers. They seemed to be free of mind control, and expressed shock at what they had done. They vaguely remembered a voice giving them orders they could not resist.

Prince Tal swore that he would provide aid whenever the Sindari need it, even if they need to keep their relationship private for the time being.

The Atlantean army mostly withdrew, leaving behind policing forces to maintain order in their territory. Over the past 30 years, the Empire has expanded massively Their professional forces are spread thin, and discontent among conquered peoples is rising.

China is in recovery mode. The plague unleashed by Apollo has begun to die down, but the devastation it unleashed has crippled countless villages. Prince Tal has focused on using this time to train a match for the Atlantean professional army. He asks the Sindari if they could acquire several thousand lightening rifles, and perhaps assistance in training the corp. The Dragon Emperor spends most of his energy restoring the land, and increasing the defenses of the nexuses.

Japan has conquered Korea. The island nation remains strong under its empress. And rich. Even with generous terms, China has required much trade.

(Event is over, feel free to post your turn when ready! If you participated in the 2nd battle, your first year is spent at war. You can use that to gain a skill though! This turn will be 10 years/actions. The Pharaoh event is moved to next turn. Thanks for your patience, and let me know if you have any questions!)

Spoiler: Zakoss (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: City Haven (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Fluffs for the fluffs (click to show/hide)

Decade time spending:

3 years training Ta - Fire magics

5 years developing a means to make a teleportation prototype for distribution and use by everyone.

2 years collecting and/or composing all knowledge from all Sindari to put into the library for later use.

town will spend time for 10 years on the following:

5 years developing and improving education level for generations to come.

5 years forming trade routes to friendly territories using vessels for projected income increase.

Desired results:

Ta - Fire 8 > 13

Ongoing research project teleportation and its results for the five years. I am trying to put up a teleport network for sindari owned nations and to develop our own teleport blocker.

Town having a higher education standard and better trade routes for income.

Intelligence 8 > 10

Spoiler: Character Sheet @ Turn Start (click to show/hide)

Spend 2 years developing a counterspell for the madness plague. Enchant a number of coins with it, to mirror the previous method of distribution. Ideally, the effects will bolster resistance against mind-affecting magic in general.

Spend another year distributing such, using my craftsman's guild as a proxy.

Spend another 2 years using my existing knowledge of physical enhancement to develop a method to bolster the body's resistance to disease.

Spend 2 years enchanting various miscellaneous accessories such as rings, necklaces, hairpins, etc. with disease resistance, to help combat the plague in China and hamper future ones.

Spend 3 years refining Fletching.

Expected gains:

Relief of Cisharni plague in China+reducing disease spread in general
Relief of Sindari madness plague+reducing ability to mind control Chinese population
+6 Fletching

Spoiler: Start of Turn (click to show/hide)

Note: As stated previously, Agility has been improved from 14 to 16.
Year 1: China
Years 2-7: Training Stealth (0->12)
Year 8: Do research into Rigel's imprisonment and the Pharaoh's plan and preparations; potentially ask Serrana about this. Gather any equipment made for the following missions.
Years 9 and 10: Rescue Rigel and sabotage the Pharaoh's plans, ideally by finding and either destroying or stealing their black soul gem.

The Sind Confederacy should:

Continue recruiting more tribes
Build up more settlements
Train translators for interactions with the Japanese shipmakers and Mongol horse archers, and learn from them
Continue trying to find places to set up colonies in the Pacific, and set them up if possible

Also, if anyone could find a way to confirm/make certain that Serrana's mental link to the Cisharni is broken off, then based on the end-of-turn summary from the last period of time pre-China/hiatus, it seems that it should be OK to let her out of Adjilia to help in America.

Spoiler: End of Turn (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: The Shamed Sun Cleans Its Mess Eastward, and Then Shifts the Blame Like a Masterminding Bastard. (click to show/hide)

https://makeameme.org/meme/this-is-me-5b3566

Archaementes' face reddened with embarrassment as more of his fellow Sindari decried his latest scheme, pointing out the full extent of its failure. Even Rigel seemed to give off a vibe that possibly indicated that he would've turn his Greek bottom into a pincushion had Archaementes been within arrow-flying distance. Finally, it was decided that he would have to make amends for what he'd done. However, gathering the cursed coins is a daunting task as they may have already spread throughout Persia and India by now. However, what he can do is soften the blow by learning how to create a blessing that will grant the affected much fortune. It can be set to leak out of items much like the Madness Curse. Once the blessed items are distributed throughout Persia and India, Archaementes can them find someway to shift the blame to the Atlanteans. Though some of the other Sindari may feel that he's wasting his time, Archaementes disagreed since public opinion is everything whether it pertained to Sindari or Cisharni or someone else. Besides, turning even a tragedy around and into a benefit at the enemy's expense is something that such a mastermind as himself simply can't pass up.

2 years spent teaching Sophia Persuasion.

To ensure that his daughter can more successfully complete her tasks in the fight against the Atlantean Empire and their Cisharni taskmasters, Archaementes decided that she needed to become someone who can influence people of differing opinions into seeing her way of things and can turn others against each other whenever necessary. Sure attacking someone's person directly is a quick way to deal with them but such a thing is the only direct course of action for amateurs. Professionals, however; know that there are more ways to destroy an enemy than cold steel. Indeed, the right words can do a lot more damage than a thousand swords when applied correctly and if the opponent lived to see his great efforts torn by his ex-allies then the victory is much sweeter.

Teaching Sophia about the importance of information, Archaementes stressed the fact that the more that is learned of others' personality, motivations, beliefs, interests, and relationships with others, the easier it is to prod them into a certain course of action. Indeed, persuasion is an art and thus must be tailored to the recipient. For example, a person who is governed by their emotions may not care much for cold logic but their heartstrings can be pulled upon the 'revelation' of a potential tragedy a rival is 'planning' against the ones they love. By obtaining information using such tactics as asking open-ended questions, listening to gossip, or even eavesdropping just to name a few, a skilled persuader can more easier wrap almost everyone around their finger.

Once the basics were firmly taught and tips were dispensed, Archaementes let Sophia join the other children to apply what she'd learned. Though she'd had trouble with some of the children who thought of her as 'being weird', Sophia managed to get the other children to give her gifts of berries and small toys. During this time, Archaementes noticed that Sophia has a knack for swaying others to her side, her presence pulling them in closer to than what should be possible for a child of her age. Perhaps she is more of a missionary than a schemer like himself? He resolved to show her that she can be both. After all, he felt in his heart that she is worthy to lead the Shrouded Dawn should he gets slain in battle against a Cisharni. He has already made the necessary preparations for her to oversee the secret cult co-jointly with him, albeit at a lesser capacity, and to ensure a smooth transition of the leadership should he die.

4 years learning the Good Fortune Spell.

Hoping to make up for causing a clusterfuck that made Acter's mistake seem insignificant, Archaementes decided to give the Persian and Indian populaces some form of relief in the form of a blessing as he deducted that gathering the cursed coins was unfeasible, not to mention that their duration will end soon anyway. Sure it won't bring back their dead loved ones but it will help soothe their pain. The masses needed joy, after all. They also needed an outlet for their anger but more on that later.

Gathering whatever the villagers considered to be good luck charms and tokens of fortune, Archaementes mentally focused on the faint energies surrounding the objects, analyzing the tiny threads that extruded into nothingness. Positing that they're actually linked to the favorable portions of causality, possibly through the power of belief or some charm, Archaementes decided that it was more efficient to copy the threads' structural makeup than attempting to replicate whatever force that's flowing into the trinkets via the threads.

Trying on each trinket, Archaementes used his heightened senses to analyze the inner workings of the charms as he flipped a gold coin and gauged their reactions whenever it landed on either side. He found out that of the sides the coin landed on, the charms fired off and caused it to land on the face he'd desired at a certain percentage, with the percentage in question increasing the more power he diverted into them. In fact, Archaementes theorized that if the percentages were high enough, the Good Fortune blessing would be capable of warding off or even curing the Madness Curse itself, However, this would need some field testing. Feeling that he understood the workings of the charms sufficiently, Archaementes begin to copy the charms.

In much of the same way he'd tested the Madness Curse on the rats, he blessed some of their food with the Good Fortune spell. The rats who were affected soon found themselves biting into newly discovered morsels that tasted much better than the rest of the food. However, the experiment wasn't without its annoyances as most of the affected rats had somehow found ways to escape their cages and to savor sweet freedom. Some of them had even found themselves lucky enough to stumble into his food supplies and proved to be uncannily slippery when he frantically tried to catch them. As Herodias screamed in terror, Sophia covered her mouth with both hands, barely keeping herself from laughing at her parents' expense. By the end of the day, Archaementes only managed to catch three rats simply because they remained nearby when the blessing wore off. The rest of the escaped rats were likely far away from his family's house by now. Nevertheless, Archaementes considered the experiment to be a resounding success as he placed the rats back into their cages and awarded them with extra food. Replacing the ruined food, Archaementes made some arrangements for his followers to bring him items to enact the next step of his plan.

1 year spreading blessed items throughout Persia and India.

Knowing that the Atlanteans cared less about toys and agricultural tools compared to gold coins and swords, Archaementes arranged for his followers to bring those items to him. For several weeks, Archaementes blessed thousands of those items with the Good Fortune blessing, giving each blessing a run-time of at least five years before fading away completely. Archaementes also made the blessing subtle to avoid alerting the Cisharni to their presence and instructed his spies to stow the blessed items near the civilians' homesteads and fields, keeping them away from garrisons and barracks. Unlike during the case of the cursed coins, Archaementes didn't bothered telling his spies to shield their hands from the blessing. Perhaps their luck will improve enough for them to successfully complete their jobs anyway. By Sind, this had better work perfectly this time.

3 years spent putting a spin on the Madness Plague Fiasco.

Now that he was on his way to cleaning up his mess, it is time to shift the blame to the Atlantean Empire. Currently, the Persians and Indians needed someone to blame for their suffering. Sure the Atlanteans have already spread half-truths about the Madness Plague being caused by Sindari trickery but, considering that no one in those two countries had ever seen a Sindari in their lives, those demigods are more or less bogeymen set up by the Atlanteans just so that the Persians and Indians can have someone to hate. Well, he can work with that analysis.

Of course, Archaementes would have to present the propaganda in a way so that the Atlanteans would mistake the propagandists as nothing more than mere human resistance rather than the direct actions of a Sindari. This meant that no explicit references to the Cisharni or the Dragon's Dynasty should be mentioned at all since that is not common knowledge among the humans and the Sindari can only be mentioned carefully because the Atlanteans mentioned them first. As far as most humans are concerned, the Cisharni and Sindari don't actually exist.

To this end, Archaementes thought of a solution: create a phantom organization of a sort. Existing only as a propagated rumor that are occasionally backed by physical deeds, this 'organization' will function as a front for the Shrouded Dawn's own activities, a mask to be used to throw off the Inquisitor's scent. While outsiders would mistake it as a real organization, in reality it's Archaementes' very own propaganda machine that, if done right and long enough, can achieve a sort of immortality and awe most groups can only dream of. After a few drafts, Archaementes decided to name this imaginary group 'Humans Opposing Propagated Evils', or HOPE for short. Such a name makes people trust it more and would fool Atlantis. Archaementes decided not to reveal his hand in this 'organization's' creation to the other Sindari to give them plausible deniability in case they are captured by the Cisharni. Now that he has his 'organization', he can use it as a means for shifting the blame to the Atlanteans and perhaps other things in the future.

For years, Archaementes wrote notices to be secreted into Persia and India by his spies, written in languages relevant to the regions. Each notice, a product of Archaementes' legendary skill in persuasion, reads as follows:

”Attention, fellow peoples of the world! By now, you had long suffered under the yoke of the Atlantean devils and had watched as they slaughtered your loved ones. By now, you still remembered the day when these hateful people attacked your country unprovoked and subjected you to hard labor! Some of you may still remember how they desecrated your temples and burned vestiges of your culture away, only to replace them with worthless filth straight from the bowels of Atlantis herself, the whore of the world! Even now, you constantly feel their boots on your necks and their lashes at your backs. Now, as if your suffering wasn't enough, the sadistic Atlanteans have chosen to curse you and your loved ones with madness! We had just received word from an escaped slave that the Atlanteans have placed a hex on coins with notches on their edges and spent them at your towns on their way to China! We'd also learned that the curse are passed on through direct contact so if you find any of these coins, please don't let them touch your skin! Dispose of them immediately! This despicable act had been authorized by the Golden Prince, whose golden armor is naught but a gilding for his black and rotted heart! Is it just a coincidence that your poor countrymen suffered from bouts of madness the moment the Golden Prince and his horde of barbarians showed up at your towns? We think not! To cover up their heinous sin, the Atlantean have concocted fantasies concerning 'Sindari' and their sorceries, making them a bogeyman to hide their atrocity! Hah! We'd rather serve these fantastical beings than listen to one lie from Atlantis. We should know: we at HOPE (Humans Opposing Propagated Evils) come from all walks of life, yet we are united in our hatred toward the deceptive Atlanteans and the suffering we'd endured at their hands! Now we have given you the truth. Do with it what you will.”

Now that the notices have been sent to Persia and India, all Archaementes have to do is to await his plan's successful fruition because if the Pharaoh's bullshit doesn't make things worse than they already are then a catastrophic mistake in this area definitely will.

Expected Results:

2 years( Persuasion X2) = Proficient Persuader (Sophia)
4 years( Good Fortune Blessing X2) = Accomplished Good Fortune User
Persians and Indians blessed with good luck.
Public opinion in Persia and India toward Atlantean Empire greatly decreased. Public opinion in Persia and India toward Sindari brought to neutral.

Family
Herodias, Wife, Age: 39
Sophia, Daughter, Age 19, 5/6 Sindari

Total Number of followers: 640 = +3 Attributes
Agility: 5, Perception: 8

[spoiler = Like Father, Like Daughter]
Name: Sophia

Alias: Star of Wisdom

Appearance: A female with freckles on the bridge of her nose, Sophia has her long golden hair tied into a single braid.

Class: 5/6 Sindari = Lives 200-400 longer than average. Can be many times faster and stronger, along with more intelligence, than an average human.

Abilities: Gifted (Presence)- Possessing an almost superhuman amount of charisma, Sophia can sway more people to her side whether they realized it or not.

Attributes: Strength: 2 Agility: 2 Intelligence: 2 Willpower: 2 Perception: 2 Presence: 4

Wealth/Assets: 0

Influence:0

Worshipers/Power:0

Family:
Herodias (Mother)
Archaementes (Father)

Skills:
Proficient Persuader
[/spoiler]

Though she'd known since birth that she is different from all the other children, Sophia embraced this because it meant that she is destined for greatness. Whether due to the subtle influence of her father or a natural inclination to stand over other, less endowed people, Sophia felt that she is meant to do more than frolic in a backwater village. However, to say that Herodias didn't also have an influence on Sophia is like saying that a bird didn't need to flap its wings to take off from the ground. Indeed, many people appreciated someone who garnered their love and respect, not a despot who'd demanded it. Carefully choosing how and what she'd say to people, Sophia was able to impress child and elder alike with her mannerisms and speeches. She'd soon earned the nickname 'Star of Wisdom' from the village elders. However, as her father always say, one must look at the bigger picture. After spending two years learning the fine art of persuasion, Sophia was ready for her first few tasks of extending the Shrouded Dawn's reach at Atlantis' expense.

1 year spent traveling to Rhodes.
3 years spent gathering devoted followers.
1 year spent returning to Belarus.

Escorted by some of Archaementes' followers, Sophia finally reached the city-state of Rhodes. According to her father, the city is known for its blacksmiths, most of whom were descended from those who'd forged beams and sheets of metal used to construct the famous Colossus of Rhodes. Perhaps she will make them see the wisdom in forging for a far greater cause than making statues. She then sought the most experienced and professional of blacksmiths.

Taking Archaementes' tips to heart, Sophia made sure to approach each blacksmith individually and discreetly to avoid drawing attention. Despite Sophia being no older than their own daughters, the blacksmiths were convinced by her rhetoric and lured in by her charisma and soon pledged themselves to the Shrouded Dawn's cause. Once her work was done, Sophia and Co returned to Belarus.

3 years spent gathering devoted followers.

As soon as she returned home, Sophia gathered more followers. Though she at first wanted to recruit only the children she'd grew up with, ever she realized that adults are more useful. Once she recruited enough followers, Sophia have them trained by her father's spymaster into the best spies she can get. Once she'd received her spies, Sophia sent some of them to Egypt and did something that even her father seemed to avoid like the plague.

For better or worse, Sophia send some of the others to spy on Sparta.

According to Archaementes, Sparta is a city-state in cahoots with Atlantis. Ruled by a Cisharni named Hera, Sparta has an upper social class consisting of her Nu-Cisharni spawn, ruling over an even bigger social class of state-owned human slaves known as helots. Sophia's reasoning was that since the Spartans could cared less about the helots, it is logical that the Shrouded Dawn should infiltrate them to gain valuable intel on the Cisharni's movements within Sparta without raising any red flags. Just in case they get captured, they can activate the Sudden Death Mark they'd received in their initiation ceremony to avoid giving the rest of the Shrouded Dawn away. Though he was worried about the plan failing, Archaementes reluctantly gave her his blessing. After all, this is a teaching moment for the both of them and success and failures make good teachers.

Expected Results:
3 years (10 X 4 Presence) = 24 Skill 5 Blacksmiths
3 years (10 X 4 Presence) = 24 Skill 5 Spies
8 spies spent to Egypt to establish a spy network.
8 spies spent to Sparta to establish a spy network.
Total number of followers: 48 = +2 Attributes

Intelligence: 3, Perception: 3

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

The war was over for now.
The Cisharni had been held back a terrible cost, and Wavebringer returned to Japan to recover from his wounds.
A messenger was sent to Prince Tal informing him that regretfully the Sindari couldn't provide the lightning rifles he'd asked for as their production was severely limited, however the Sindari would provide what they could.
+2 intelligence
1.Gather soul gems and support war(+76 soul gems)
2. Rebirth keeping current identity

The prince's request highlighted an unpleasant truth. Making magic items was slow and the Cisharni had a head start. If the mortals were going to free themselves they would need to make their own weapons.
Wavebringer had heard of alchemical compounds that would burn fiercely, so he gathered learned men and women from across Japan to see if one could be refined into a useful weapon.
He also created a team to investigate an odd event he'd witnessed. When he had been surrounded by Apollo's fire, the stopper had flown out of his canteen with a loud pop and a burst of steam. It wasn't magic but there was a power there. Who knew what could be accomplished if it could be harnessed.
3. Gather followers (60 influence * 3 presence * 10 / 5 = 360 @ skill 5)
120 Skill 5 Alchemists
240 Skill 5 Natural Philosophers
4. Gather devoted followers (30 @ Skill 0)
5. Organize followers
120 Alchemists & 120 Natural philosophers queue research: Gun power, canons, then muskets. Share results with the Chinese.
120 Natural philosophers queue research: steam power, then steam ship propulsion.
60 skill 0 worshipers train as soldiers
Violet and the crafters to assist in developing and making rapid fire lightning guns
The 100 spymasters working in China and Korea reassigned to assess and monitor the strength and capabilities of the Cisharni military particularly their ocean going navy.

Once that project was organized he turned back to his magical research, developing a powerful lightning gun and a means to keep the Cisharni from turning it against the Sindari and their allies.

Code: [Select]

Wavebringer's Mark of Trust
A magic tattoo in the shape of a wave. It's usually invisible but will glow in response to magic or if the bearer wills it. It provides resistance to mind control and allows the use of certain sindari artifacts.

Code: [Select]

Rapid-fire lighting gun
A large multi barrelled lighting gun mounted on a swivel and powered by a strength three soul gem.
It trades portability for an extremely high rate of fire.
Can only be used by a Sindari, one of Wavebringer's descendants, or someone who bears a Mark of Trust from a Sindari.

6. Develop mark of trust and Mark newly trained soldiers
7. Gather strength 3 soul gems(intelligence 16 * collection rate 8 / strength 3 = 42 gems)
8. Prototype Rapid-fire Lighting Gun
9. Train Counter-magic
10. Build R.L Guns and send to China with the Marked soldiers for shrine defense under Prince Tal
(20 skill 13 crafters making 1 blank per year for 2 years = 40 blanks
2 skill 13 lightning/enchanting(Wavebringer and Violet) enchanting 15 strength 9 guns per year for 1 year = 30 guns enchanted
Total result 30 R.L. Guns and 10 blanks.)

Summery:
+2 intelligence
+ 76 strength 1 soul gems
+ 12 strength 3 soul gems
+ 120 skill 5 Alchemists
+ 240 skill 5 Natural philosophers
- 30 skill 0 worshipers
+ 60 worshiper skill 4 soldiers with Mark Of Trust. in China
research into gunpowder weapons
research into steam power and propulsion
development of a spy network providing intel on the Cisharni military
+ 30 Rapid-fire Lightning Guns in China
+ 10 Unenchanted Rapid-fire Lightning Guns
+ 2 Counter-magic
Family developments:
Mark Skills:Merchant +6
Rose Skills: Medicine +4 Magic: Healing +4
Violet Skills:Mathematics +3 Magic: Weather control +2
Namico Skills: Leadership +8
Akemi Skills: Intimidation +8
Hideaki Skills: Swordsman +2 Archer +2 Sailing +2 Command +2
Mitsu Skills: Riding +8
Takeshi Skills: Scholar +5 Engineering +3 Martial Arts +2
Makoto Magic: Healing +9
Etsu Skills: Natural Philosophy +7
32 new grand children and great grand children.
Full family record here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/139I6YciuNuvO8pO9pBmvc4BP5u7azK2fI-aKSStjPlM/edit?usp=sharing (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/139I6YciuNuvO8pO9pBmvc4BP5u7azK2fI-aKSStjPlM/edit?usp=sharing)

Spoiler: I Guess Not (click to show/hide)

(So you'll notice that I folded together some of the training that I did, so I didn't have as many mostly-useless skills/spells hanging around. I also made "Astral Magic" into "Warding", because the former was useless and the latter will probably not be. Probably. I'll work more with this tomorrow if I've got time before the update.)

Turangol will spend one year (spread out across the decade) on a Japanese ship, far out at sea in the Pacific, surveying the very near futures of anyone who gets themselves in a potentially dangerous predicament, to aid them in escaping or fighting, or doing anything else that they need help with.
He will spend 3 years researching these ripples caused by sensing the future, and six researching the effects of short-term future sensing, hiding out in the depths of Canada where nobody sane ever goes.

I'll fluff things later, not that I need much fluff.

Quote from: Gains from event: Fighting Experience! 1 point of combat-related skill

Note: 1 year used for the China event
Spoiler: Nu-Sindari/Self Gains of this decade turn (click to show/hide)
Everyone: +1 Warding*
*Event gain

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 7.1st turn (9 year turn). 111 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

Quote from: Basic Details

Name: Amelia
Alias: The Builder
Appearance: Amelia will always appear as a young woman of varying sturdy build, with a light brown complexion, dark colored hair, and golden hued irises.
[In the 70th decade, she reappears as a young woman, having discarded the visage of age since her travel from overseas]
Class: Bandorin
Abilities:
+ Alchemy | This skill enables transmutation of material to other materials; as with all god-given skills, transmuted items may be sensed as magical.
+ Artificer | Amelia may create items that provide bonuses to attributes, or imbue items that will aid in certain tasks; based primarily on her enchanting skill, she is able to lessen time needed to imbue items, and can even imbue buildings and fortifications with potent magical characteristics.

Attributes:
Strength*:4
Agility:2
Intelligence*:16
Willpower*:10 [16]
Perception:2
Presence:2

Influence: 0
Followers (Not including Family/Worshippers): 20,380
Worshipers/Power: 7001; +10

Quote from: Skills

Engineering: 15 [Legendary+] **Bending: 15 [Legendary+] Mining: 13 [Legendary] Enchanting: 13 [Legendary] Persuasion: 13 [Legendary] Teaching: 13 [Legendary] Scholar: 13 [Legendary] Administration: 13 [Legendary] Performance: 7 [Professional] Warding: 7 [Professional] Doctor: 7 [Professional] Diplomacy: 6 [Adept] **This is a combat skill, 'Bending' is a mixture of martial arts/magic

Quote from: Personal Connections

Family: 1
> Tala; Wife. Nu-Sindari since the 41st year (6/6) [70 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Alchemy
- Cooking 13; Administration 10; Persuasion 10; Herbalism 13; Teaching 13; Bending 6; Animal Training 4; Performance 3; Enchanting 7; Warding 3
Attributes:
Strength*:2
Agility:2
Intelligence*:12
Willpower*:8
Perception:2
Presence:2

> Malaya; Nu-Sindari since 98th year (6/6) [13 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Teleport: After an hour’s preparation, can teleport anywhere they, or a friendly Sindari, has gone.
- Herbalism 3; Ranger 2; Marksmanship 2; Doctor 2; Warding 3; Teaching 2
Attributes:
Strength:2
Agility*:4
Intelligence*:4
Willpower:2
Perception*:2
Presence:2

> Sirius; since 91st year (3/6) [20 years]
- Ranger 6; Leadership 6; Teaching 2; Stealth 3; Warding 3
Attributes:
Strength*:4
Agility:2
Intelligence*:4
Willpower*:2
Perception:2
Presence:2

Quote from: Wealth/Assets

> An elite scouting corps, headed by the imbued-Sindari Sirius, acts as pioneers of the field of information and reconnaissance.
> A full set of mundane-looking artificed armor and artificed quarterstaff
+45 Wealth modifier
10 Soul Gems [All set to be used for Artificer work]

> +10 Worship points invested into Artificer, with these details upgrading it:
- Able to apply Enchantment skill*2 into armor/weapons
- A full set of armor/weapons takes a week to artifice.
- I am able to add basic enchantments without using a soul gem (basic being anything that's subtle, like being on fire, small increase in attributes, non-overt characteristics that denote a magical item; until level 6 spellpower [WILL]) and enchantments that do use a soul gem are extremely difficult to burn out (requiring extreme circumstances)
- I am able to inset "God" level enchantments, utilizing a soul gem; this takes the same amount of time.

Quote from: Base

Aboveground
> A Fortified City difficult to see from the skies is entrenched into a valley enclosure, where the entrance to the underground base starts. Terraced farmland paint the landscape of the mountain range. A Trade Company exists, with its many buildings set in a dedicated zone, with specialized buildings and facilities using and producing refined and dedicated tools for ease of use for the population. The whole area is particularly modernized for the time, with a road network and an information network spread out by the numerous academies around.
Underground
> The underground is a natural, hollowed cavern. Thoroughly mapped out, fault lines and danger zones are well-known due to Amelia's Bandorin insight--it can currently hold 100,000 people in full comfort to their needs, with graceful decorations and multiple facilities providing various amenities akin to wealthy above-ground structures and service areas. Recent adjustments enable both enchantment and engineering at a wider scale, making larger structures or expansion to be safely done.
- Defences within the underground encompass the local region, boasting refined teleportation blockers attuned to the Cisharni, with the long term refinement goal being subtle in their effect that renders such enchantment near impalpable to others' perceptions.
- Other defenses include the local Spirit of Harmony, alongside a Soul Gem network from the ancestors and renowned deceased of the population, with the network embedded on the cavern ceiling to reflect the skies and stars aboveground.
> Specialized quarters for the Sindari and their families/worshippers/followers exist within, providing a comfortable and stable climate within the mountain. A teleporter to the Japanese Empress' Castle is also present therein, acting as a transport of materials and personnel to Masamune's smithy.
> A Grand Temple is hewn from majestic rock, placed near an opening to the vale, where the moving winds create both music and an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. It is a place of general worship, housing a local Spirit of Harmony, which aids the local attitude and personal growth.
> A Soul Gem Network is taking root; structured to reflect the constellations of the skies, it is an artificial process to aid natural defenses and provide a pathway for both natural magic and the sentient energies of all people within.
General Area
> The archipelago of what is known to us as the Philippines is equivalent to a renaissance of learning and enlightenment. Academies are present in all inhabited islands, with the local ruling class being guided by wisdom from thoughtful and considerate advisors. Instead of monarchy, the archipelago is governed by a council created by the people, and for the people.
> Trade with China and Japan brings prosperity; refugees from war-torn areas in these places are openly welcomed. There are considerable measures in place to ensure that refugees are not Atlantean spies, and several measures are being devised and refined to further this plan--monoliths at sea, bordering the archipelago, are planned to prevent hostile teleportation.

Quote from: Other Notes

> The region my character is in, in our history is Ifugao (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ifugao#History).

***This world is of a similar, but different timeline than our own, having roots with physical and understandable magic as part of its physics and natural laws; one major indicator is the differing tech levels that equal an advance of society despite it being the relative BC period. (Map (12th century) (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/East-Hem_1200ad.jpg))

In the 111st year since Sindari creation...
All actions summarized in spoiler.

Spoiler: Decade changes (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Flavor (click to show/hide)

The three boys stood at the edge of their city. Sands shifted as far as the eye can see.

“Hey look at this!” one shouted. He pointed to an ancient ruin, a circular formation of upright stones. Columns, worn from the sand and wind, turned to the same dusty yellow as the rest of this desert was. Some were broken at the base, some topped, some still standing majestically, withstanding time and nature.

“There’s something inside,” the second shouted. He hopped over a square chunk of fallen stone. “It’s like… a big statue or something, and there’s words carved into it.”

“It’s gibberish,” the first answered. He ran up to take a closer look. “Like dashed I’s… and wiggly E’s… who writes like that?”

“It’s Greek,” said the third boy, gazing aloofly up at the sky.”

“You know Greek, Darius?” the first boy asked.

“There’s a guy in the village - fleeing from a place called Baiae, he taught me,” the third boy says, walking up the piece of ruin the first two were looking at. “Είμαστε οι θεοί της νέας παγκόσμιας τάξης. We are the gods of the new world order…”

He came to the end of the cracked fragment. “Where’s the rest?” he asks.

“Dunno,” the second boy answers. “Here look, this one’s complete!” He points his friends at a circular table, lying tilted in the middle of the monument. They ran to it.

The first boy pointed to a word. “Is that Atlantis?”

Darius brushes off the dust. “Ατλαντίδα. Atlantis, yeah.” He found the beginning of the text. “From the seas, Atlantis arose…”

“Atlantis?” asks the second boy. “That’s where the Cisharni live!”

“...children of the eldest god, Cisharn…” Darius keeps translating. “Carthage fell next, then Greece, and then Rome fell.”

“They say they can fly through the air and they can shoot a man from half a mile away!” the second boy says.

“...Sind fled, a bare remnant of his self. Cisharn was devastated…”

“They say no man can look upon a Cisharni without being converted by the majesty they bring!” his friend continues in wonder. Darius has to move to the other side of the disk to follow the text.

“One task I ask of you… destroy them… Καταστρέψτε τον Ατλαντί… destroy Atlantis.” Darius looks up.

“That’s impossible,” the first boy insists. “Only a god could destroy the holy city.”

“I think whoever wrote this was talking to a god… or a group of gods…” Darius answers. He looks back down at the tablet. “Wait, there’s more. Go, my children… my… ΣΙΝΔΑΡΙ… Sindari.”

The ground shook. The ruins trembled beneath his feet.

The second boy looked up, frightened. “Let’s get out of here!”

The first boy didn’t protest, running up the slope and back out of the monument. He turns back to see Darius still standing by the ancient ruins, which now glow from within, a spectral blue light creeping up almost from the stone itself.

“DARIUS!” the boys shout.

Darius doesn’t hear them. He seems transfixed by the stone, reaching out a hand to lightly touch the surface of the tablet, now seething with energy.

The other two boys run for their lives, and so are barely out of range when he does. They are blinded by the massive beam of energy that surges up out of the desert sands, crackling viciously up at the sky. Flickering holographic runes blink into and out of existence as the dying breath of a god flows up from the ancient tablet, swirling around Darius, settling into his skin, piercing into his eyes, tearing and rewriting every fabric of his being, changing the strands of soul that make him human in order to make him something else.

When he comes to he’s lying on the stone with a terrible headache. “Oh, what now-”

The mindlink snaps open.

He takes a few seconds to take in what he sees.

“Darius! Are you alright?” the other two say running down. They see him. “Stay where you are. We’ll get help.”

“No really, I’m fine…”

“You just got hit with a lightning bolt, no way you’re fine-”

“I’m FINE!” he shouts. His eyes blaze a flash of silver and his friends seem to go slack.

“Alright, you’re fine” one says.

That’s interesting, he thinks. He files through the messages going through the mindlink. So I’m one of the gods, now. I’m… a Sindari…

(and that, in a nutshell, is why we keep getting new Sindari, people just keep tripping over the summoning stone)

Assigning 13 points, X2 bonus to points put into presence, willpower, and intelligence…
...done.

Spoiler: Rolling up character… (click to show/hide)

Actions:

#1: Chuck birds to look for anything interesting (chosen to blend into native wildlife, of course) at:
-Wherever the Pharaoh lives in Egypt
-That island where Serrana said Rigel may be
-Prince Tal’s place in China
-Spartan training grounds
-Get a seagull or something to buzz Atlantis
#2-7: Study intelligence gathering, with an emphasis on using remote agents to find out interesting things about the enemy, like I plan on doing
#8: Bind as many people as I can get that might have contact with the Pharaoh, and try to figure out his plans. Ideally shoot for people that are involved in the military, guards and such.
#9-10: Assist Octavian’s mission to Egypt, by making the guards grabbed in #8 look the other way and such.

Expected results:

1 new Sindari player
Bird planted at or near Pharaoh’s palace
Intel on the island prison
Surveillance on Prince Tal’s palace
Intel on what the Spartans are planning
One seagull shot down over Atlantis
+6 Intelligence Gathering
Small mob of mind-controlled people in service of Pharaoh
Intel on Pharaoh’s military mobilizations

Spoiler: End of turn (click to show/hide)

Turn edit: I'd like to actually directly help Glass infiltrate the pyramid, as directly as I can. Like, tag along with him using random mind tricks and annoying birds to help him break in. He's still screwed, but he may be slightly less screwed.

Sindari Turn 110-120

The little girl smiled as she held the small pin. It gleamed in the faint moonlight, intricate weaves forming the blunt end. Despite its sharpness she never seemed to prick herself. Anaya knew she would have to give to her parents eventually, but she treasured it.
   Anaya heard a faint cry. Her eyes widened and she turned to the door, facing the village. She rushed to it and peeked out. Mother warned her to stay inside the house tonight, and Father grumbled about something called the “Greeks”. Anaya didn’t like the Greeks because her parents said a lot of bad things about them.
The village spread out in front of her, lit by torches that illuminated rushing figures. Anaya gasped as flames began to flicker on top of thatched roofs.
Gruff voices nearby startled her out of her horror. She slammed the door shut and ran to the corner and crouched down, her eyes wide. The voices were now outside her door, and she clenched her pin harder. She felt the urge to run.
She lept for the window, clambering out as the door was smashed in. A voice cried out in surprise as she ran away. A quick glance behind her revealed a tall man with a spear chasing her. She began to sob in terror as she ran. Her foot slammed into a rock, sending her sprawling onto the ground. Through her tears she saw her pin tumble away into the soil.
She turned and looked at the man, malice and darkness shadowing his face. He approached, his spear slowly dropping as he reached for her . . .
Until the howls started.
They both froze, blood turning to ice as the howls echoed through the valley. The man turned to run, but was slammed to the ground by a huge wolf. He cried out, but was silenced with a sharp crack as the wolf shock him by the neck viciously. Anaya froze, staring at the wolf as it looked at her. It padded silently over, and gave her a gentle nuzzle.

Anaya walked to the village in shock, the wolf trotting at her side. It had quieted down, armored bodies littering the streets. Her friends stood around silently, eyes huge as they saw her walking down the street, as their parents rushed about putting the last of the fires out. Her mother saw her first, crying out and rushing to her, wrapping the girl in her arms. The wolf gave her a last lick, and trotted off to the side of a stranger, tall with a foreign look to him, almost greek. Anaya shrank back, clutching her pin tightly. The stranger, armored in leathers with straight sword at his side, knelt down. His face was kind. He smiled at her, and glanced at the pin. “Keep a tight hold of that pin, girl. It’s lucky.” He got to feet and turned to her parents. He told them and the rest of village to move, to hide. It would no longer be safe, but they could find refuge in the far away land of Japan. Tell the people there that they were under Hideaki’s protection. He gave them directions, and then soon he and a few other men rode off, followed by the pack of wolves, into the night.



Zakoss: Experimentation with teleportation techniques has revealed a need for linked “waypoints” connecting two points. This requires paired soul gems. An artificial connection can be forged, but this causes any soul gems used to burn out quickly. If soul gems that possess a strong bond in life are used, the soul gems could last much longer. Current designs only allow around 3 people to teleport. (Lose 20 soul gems).

The town continues to grow and thrive. The nobles focus on improving the port and shipyard, and build a small school for the children. The nobles dedicate the talented teachers for their children, while the others are mostly taught a few lessons between work.

Octavian: Rigel was difficult to track down. Octavian tried to gather information on where he could be held, but knowledge that he was even captured was not spread. In general, he did learn that most of the Inquisitor's “special” prisoners were held in his secret island fortress, that only special pilots were aware of. No maps showed its location, and it seemed that the the only option was to capture an elite Atlantean pilot. Luckily the need for that potential mess was avoided through the new Sindari Darius, who was able to use his connections through birds to locate the island. Octavian was able to pierce the fog of misdirection, and was able to scout the island. Shrouded by constant fog, the fortress sat on bare rock, with a small port host to 10 black warships, armed with gemlock cannons. The fortress is garrisoned by Atlantean elite forces, numbering around 800. Octavian was not surprised by the feeling of the anti-teleportation field over the place. A few times he risked getting close, and he heard rumors concerning the mostly rebel prisoners, and guess work concerning why the Inquisitor was visiting so often.
   The black soul gem was relatively easy to track down in comparison. Joining efforts with Darius, they were able to confirm the soul gem presence in the Onyx Pyramid. Infiltration would prove to be much more difficult. Warded by layers of defensive spells and patrolled by undead guards. OCtavian was able to overhear from a conversation between the two mages that the black soul gem is roughly the size of a human torso, and the rituals preparing it are almost complete.

Amelia: Study into teleportation has proved slow, as mimicking the teleportation ability of the Mercutia Sindari has proved difficult and costly. The teleblocker was much easier to develop in comparison. Putting teleportation devices on ships to help with boarding actions proved to be premature, as the teleporter wasn’t able to deal with the rocking of the ocean, and teleporting onto a moving object. With the help of Zakoss, a simple teleportation network was developed between Japan, the Philippines, and New Zealand. It is however extremely costly currently. Teleport Blockers have been set up around important centers of power through Sindari territories. It does hamper friendly teleportation, but the blockers can be temporarily be deactivated to allow a teleport. Cost 30 Soul Gems from teleportation research and testing.

Wavebringer: The alchemists were able to reliably produce gunpowder, however, developing tools to effectively use it them are more difficult. The cannons they developed have either been extremely ineffective, or prone to explosion. The researchers theorize that they may have something useable in a few years more time. The motive power of steam has also been proven, but outside of trinkits and oddities it has not been shown to be an effective source of power yet. The Spymasters work hard to provide information, placing men in ports and warehouses to track shipments. The Atlantean Empire has a strong navy, with around 120 warships, most kept in port but around a third are kept on patrol in the Mediterranean. Two major ship bases are being developed, one on the west coast of Spain, and another in India.

Archaementes: While the pamphlets aren’t very successful due to the people being generally illiterate, though the good fortune spell was successful in aiding the people of India. Sophia proved herself able in recruitment, though she narrowly avoiding capture when in Rhodes, as the city produces many of the arms and armor for the Greek forces in service of Atlantis. The blacksmiths soon gave her up to the questioning authorities, and she was forced to flee. The spy sent to Atlantis was able to get a job working the docks of Atlantis, and receive information on shipping to and from the city. Any higher placement of a spy is difficult without a informant of Atlantean blood.

Darius: After consuming the Sind Stone, Darius is welcomed into the ranks of the Sindari. Gathering information from his mind controlled spies, he learns that the leaders of the government are protected from mind control, either by blood or enchantment. You also learn potential opportunities to cause havoc, either through targets to assassinate or unrest to stir.

STATE OF THE EMPIRE: The Empire has used this time to consolidate its conquered territories. India has experienced flares of uprising, and monstrous wolves that somehow target Atlanteans and their allies. Greece falls more and more under the sway of Atlantis with each day, with even Athenians adopting becoming more pro-atlantean policies.

STATE OF SINDARI TERRITORIES: The Sind Confederacy has begun to break down as tribes begin to have heated debates about the future. Many tribes now oppose pacific expansion as ships sent exploring fail to return. Others disagree with the forming of settlements and abandonment of their nomadic lifestyle.

Ahote, now older and well respected among the clans, comes to Octavian and asks to be made a nu-sindari. He argues the tribes need a powerful leader like the Japanese do. 13 other tribal chiefs come and ask the same.

Japan continues to flourish. The Empress has taken the experience from the War in China, and formed a formidable fighting core. These professional soldiers are fast, trained in both sword and bow, and excel in hit and run attacks. She has also trained a portion to use the lightning rifle produced by her husband to form a hard hitting attack force. The scouts trained by Amelia form elite units within the corp, becoming rangers that could outfight any scouts sent by Atlantis. This force numbers 50,000 men by the end of the decade.

The Philippines become a renowned center for scholarship, the graduates of the university becoming the core part of the researchers for the Sindari. Many crave the abilities of the Sindari, and competition is fierce to attract notice in hopes of becoming infused by the Sindari’s power.

China was aided greatly by the plague cures, bringing the disease under control. Sadly, much of the country’s population was lost. The Dragon Emperor remains resolute, and grants all the Sindari who aided in the restoration of his people. Prince Tal forms another professional army that is modeled after the one forming in Japan, but has more focus on heavy cavalry and footmen, one for the battlefield and the other to hold fortified positions.
The shines become ever more fortified, with the Dragon Emperor forming strong wards to protect them. The priests are ever watchful for any incursion. But the Darkness gathers.

As soon as Octavian is granted any last-minute enchantments or pieces of equipment, he will move in to steal or destroy the Pharaoh's Black Soul Gem.

Spoiler: Wavebringer (click to show/hide)

The Pharaoh's soul gem had been found, but getting to it would not be easy.
Octavian was planing to go in alone, but there were still ways Wavebringer could help.
The first step was to enchant Octavian's weapons to help deal with the undead. Giving them the ability to disrupt the magic of whatever they struck.

Next he began to plan a diversionary attack with the aim of drawing the Pharaoh out of his pyramid.
Octavian was obviously unavailable, so Kaito contacted the Nu-sindari teleporter Malaya to see if she was willing to help.
The plan was that they would travel to Egypt and find a barracks on the outskirts of the capital.
Then he would seek out and memorize a number of escape routes while she made preparations to teleport out as quickly as possible.
Once they were both ready he would start his attack, destroying the barracks with powerful lightning.
Killing anyone who tried to stop him, he would then begin preaching to the people. Telling them how the Pharaoh's tyranny had displeased the gods leading to the creation of the Sindari who would one day destroy him and free the people from his rule.
He'd leave when it looked like he was about to be cut off, overrun, or the Pharaoh was about to arrive. Covering his retreat by summoning a dence fog.

+2 int
1.Using 2 strength 3 soul gems enchant Octavian's tonfas to disrupt the magic of whatever they strike.
2. Provide a diversion while Octavian tries to get the dark soul gem.

Despite wanting to advance his agenda of subverting Greece's governments, even Archaementes realized that should the Pharaoh accomplishes his dark plan, his own would be rendered moot. Normally, he wouldn't choose to expose himself in such a way but, considering that the Sindari now faced a potentially world-altering event, perhaps a more hands-on approach is needed. Besides, maybe this will help make up for his great fuck-up in the east.

Making sure that the transition of the Shrouded Dawn's leadership to Sophia will be smooth, Archaementes said what could be his final goodbye to Herodias and Sophia and packed up for his trip to Egypt. He took fifteen of his thirty soul gems, leaving the rest with Sophia, his twin bronze swords Secrecy and Mystery, and some essentials before contacting one of the teleportation-capable Nu-Sindari. Though Sophia would no doubt have such a heavy burden placed on her shoulders should he fall in a battle, especially at such a young age, Archaementes knew that she will eventually learn to bear it and will take the Shrouded Dawn into directions that not even he could anticipate. He fully intended to guide her in spirit until she become strong enough to manage on her own. Because he felt that she will soon surpass him, Archaementes didn't fear death at the hands of Atlantis. After all, the Cisharni will inadvertently create a bigger threat by killing him and the irony of it will never be washed away.

His death will be the beginning of their downfall.

Expected Results:
Activating five soul gems, Archaementes will use the extra power to bless Octavian's clothes with an enhanced Good Fortune blessing to aid him in his task.
He will then aid Wavebringer in his diversionary actions and with delivering the message to the people, escaping only when the fellow Tempisti is out of harm's way.

Turangol is not a front-line fighter, not in a duel of Immortals. But sometimes the pivotal stroke can be decided before the fight begins, before the duel starts. Sometimes it can fall from incredible distances across time and space. And sometimes, it's just insanely hard to hit someone who's really fast and getting the occasional glimpse into the immediate future.

So Turangol will wait, far out in the Pacific with one of the Sind exploration vessels. Supporting his fellow Sindari by watching the near future, careful to change the future as little as possible by searching it.

((this has been sitting on my computer, unposted, for like two days now. Darn you, server errors))

Spoiler: I was tempted to name this guy David Eborrenial, but that would be confusing (click to show/hide)

"So let me get this straight. The Pharaoh is summoning Apophis in a year?" Dairus asked over the Sindari's shared mindlink/long-range communication thing.

Yes, Octavian answered.

"And you know what that-"

Yes.

"Like, are you sure it's real Apophis as opposed to an overgrown python or something?”

Pretty sure it's the real thing.

“Then you should know that that's the very antithesis of what a Pharaoh is supposed to do. He's supposed to be the instrument of the gods on Earth, not causing chaos!”

Well, we told you he was evil.

“This isn’t even evil. This… is madness! Apophis is the end of everything we know and love personified! Apophis is what you hope you don’t dream about when you go to sleep, if you’re a god.”

My actions:

→ Attempt to help Octavian’s infiltration with my knowledge of the layout of the pyramid and the various servants of the Pharaoh that I controlled last turn

→ Help Wavebringer rile up a decent mob against the Pharaoh, by hiding among the crowd and using Bind the Will to turn individuals that look like they may have an influence

→ Have a bird circling that area to watch for the Pharaoh or his forces and warn Wavebringer to get out if they come

→ Also have the bird poop on the Pharaoh’s head if he comes, just because.

Will write a separate turn after the event.

Spoiler: Amelia, The Builder; 8th turn. 120 years since Sindari creation (click to show/hide)

Quote from: Basic Details

Name: Amelia
Alias: The Builder
Appearance: Amelia will always appear as a young woman of varying sturdy build, with a light brown complexion, dark colored hair, and golden hued irises.
[In the 70th decade, she reappears as a young woman, having discarded the visage of age since her travel from overseas]
Class: Bandorin
Abilities:
+ Alchemy | This skill enables transmutation of material to other materials; as with all god-given skills, transmuted items may be sensed as magical.
+ Artificer | Amelia may create items that provide bonuses to attributes, or imbue items that will aid in certain tasks; based primarily on her enchanting skill, she is able to lessen time needed to imbue items, and can even imbue buildings and fortifications with potent magical characteristics.

Attributes:
Strength*:4
Agility:2
Intelligence*:18
Willpower*:10 [16]
Perception:2
Presence:2

Influence: 0
Followers (Not including Family/Worshippers): 20,380
Worshipers/Power: 7001; +10

Quote from: Skills

Engineering: 15 [Legendary+] **Bending: 15 [Legendary+] Mining: 13 [Legendary] Enchanting: 14 [Legendary] Persuasion: 13 [Legendary] Teaching: 13 [Legendary] Scholar: 15 [Legendary] Administration: 13 [Legendary] Performance: 7 [Professional] Warding: 9 [Professional] Doctor: 7 [Professional] Diplomacy: 6 [Adept] Leadership : 2 **This is a combat skill, 'Bending' is a mixture of martial arts/magic

Quote from: Personal Connections

Family: 1
> Tala; Wife. Nu-Sindari since the 41st year (6/6) [79 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Alchemy
- Cooking 13; Administration 13; Persuasion 10; Herbalism 13; Teaching 13; Bending 6; Animal Training 4; Performance 3; Enchanting 9; Warding 3; Logistics 4
Attributes:
Strength*:2
Agility:2
Intelligence*:12
Willpower*:10
Perception:2
Presence:2

> Malaya; Nu-Sindari since 98th year (6/6) [21 years since Nu-Sindari]
* Ability: Teleport: After an hour’s preparation, can teleport anywhere they, or a friendly Sindari, has gone.
- Herbalism 3; Ranger 2; Marksmanship 2; Doctor 4; Warding 6; Teaching 6
Attributes:
Strength:2
Agility*:6
Intelligence*:4
Willpower:2
Perception*:2
Presence:2

> Sirius; since 91st year (3/6) [29 years]
- Ranger 6; Leadership 9; Teaching 2; Stealth 3; Warding 3; Logistics 6
Attributes:
Strength*:4
Agility:2
Intelligence*:4
Willpower*:4
Perception:2
Presence:2

Quote from: Wealth/Assets

> An elite scouting corps, headed by the imbued-Sindari Sirius, acts as pioneers of the field of information and reconnaissance.
> A diplomat corps, headed by dedicated personnel coming from the universities of the land
> A unified public education foundation, where universities and colleges act as advancement that is open to all peoples who wish to learn within the lands
> A full set of mundane-looking artificed armor and artificed quarterstaff
+45 Wealth modifier
10 Soul Gems [All set to be used for Artificer work]

> +10 Worship points invested into Artificer, with these details upgrading it:
- Able to apply Enchantment skill*2 into armor/weapons
- A full set of armor/weapons takes a week to artifice.
- I am able to add basic enchantments without using a soul gem (basic being anything that's subtle, like being on fire, small increase in attributes, non-overt characteristics that denote a magical item; until level 6 spellpower [WILL]) and enchantments that do use a soul gem are extremely difficult to burn out (requiring extreme circumstances)
- I am able to inset "God" level enchantments, utilizing a soul gem; this takes the same amount of time.

Quote from: Base

Aboveground
> A Fortified City difficult to see from the skies is entrenched into a valley enclosure, where the entrance to the underground base starts. Terraced farmland paint the landscape of the mountain range. A Trade Company exists, with its many buildings set in a dedicated zone, with specialized buildings and facilities using and producing refined and dedicated tools for ease of use for the population. The whole area is particularly modernized for the time, with a road network and an information network spread out by the numerous academies around.
Underground
> The underground is a natural, hollowed cavern. Thoroughly mapped out, fault lines and danger zones are well-known due to Amelia's Bandorin insight--it can currently hold 100,000 people in full comfort to their needs, with graceful decorations and multiple facilities providing various amenities akin to wealthy above-ground structures and service areas. Recent adjustments enable both enchantment and engineering at a wider scale, making larger structures or expansion to be safely done.
- Defences within the underground encompass the local region, boasting refined teleportation blockers attuned to the Cisharni, with the long term refinement goal being subtle in their effect that renders such enchantment near impalpable to others' perceptions.
- Other defenses include the local Spirit of Harmony, alongside a Soul Gem network from the ancestors and renowned deceased of the population, with the network embedded on the cavern ceiling to reflect the skies and stars aboveground.
> Specialized quarters for the Sindari and their families/worshippers/followers exist within, providing a comfortable and stable climate within the mountain. A teleporter to the Japanese Empress' Castle is also present therein, acting as a transport of materials and personnel to Masamune's smithy.
> A Grand Temple is hewn from majestic rock, placed near an opening to the vale, where the moving winds create both music and an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. It is a place of general worship, housing a local Spirit of Harmony, which aids the local attitude and personal growth.
> A Soul Gem Network is taking root; structured to reflect the constellations of the skies, it is an artificial process to aid natural defenses and provide a pathway for both natural magic and the sentient energies of all people within.
General Area
> The archipelago of what is known to us as the Philippines is equivalent to a renaissance of learning and enlightenment. Academies are present in all inhabited islands, with the local ruling class being guided by wisdom from thoughtful and considerate advisors. Instead of monarchy, the archipelago is governed by a council created by the people, and for the people.
> Trade with China and Japan brings prosperity; refugees from war-torn areas in these places are openly welcomed. There are considerable measures in place to ensure that refugees are not Atlantean spies, and several measures are being devised and refined to further this plan--monoliths at sea, bordering the archipelago, are planned to prevent hostile teleportation.

Quote from: Other Notes

> The region my character is in, in our history is Ifugao (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ifugao#History).

***This world is of a similar, but different timeline than our own, having roots with physical and understandable magic as part of its physics and natural laws; one major indicator is the differing tech levels that equal an advance of society despite it being the relative BC period. (Map (12th century) (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/East-Hem_1200ad.jpg))

In the 120tht year since Sindari creation...
All actions summarized in spoiler.

Spoiler: Decade changes (click to show/hide)

((Dead tired from work; will edit this all later for clearer formatting))

Spoiler: Character Sheet @ Turn Start (click to show/hide)

One year providing whatever equipment people want from me (except for, of course, my artifacts) for stopping the Pharaoh.
5 years studying my magic alongside Amelia's, in order to develop a fuller understanding of how it works.
4 years attempting to harness this framework to learn how to cast larger spells without the assistance of a soul gem.

The Black Soul Gem

Octavian stood in the midst of the Pharaoh’s inner sanctum. The vault door laid open behind, and around him lay numerous treasures. But in front of him stood the real prize. Held aloft by 4 claws of black iron, the Black Soul Gem, the size of a human torso, hummed with power. Lines and circles of some kind of ritual surrounded it. Octavian could sense the potency gathered around it. It seemed to be a ritual to focus its energies somewhere when called upon. It wouldn’t stop him from taking it. He took a step forward.

What does he do with the Black Soul Gem?

Xin knelt in the temple in meditation. His dreams had become more disturbed of late. He was accepted into the temple’s service several years prior. It was a secluded place of peace, though the peace had diminished somewhat with the increased defenses, both mundane and magical. He was one of the carefully vetted noviates, and had seen the Dragon Emperor himself as he renewed the wards in place. Xin was faithful and loyal and. . .
The Pharaoh awoke.
There was no physical change, aside from the peaceful expression on Xin’s face morphing into one more imperious and arrogant. He had buried his consciousness deep inside a constructed personality, made to infiltrate this northern temple. An enchantment powered by a Sindari soul gem allowed him to further disguise his reformed body’s potential. It had taken a trade of a monsterous spear that the Pharoah had acquired a long time ago, but thus far had proven an excellent trade.

The Pharaoh breathed out and closed his eyes. He had surreptitiously weakened the wards around the temple, but they could not fail to notice his reclaimed power. An alarm rang out before he could silence it. His dark magic surged through most the wards and magical traps, destroying them. Screams echoed out as stone rumbled and cried as stirred energy detonated.

The Pharaoh stride to the center of the temple. A guard rushed at him, but the Pharaoh weaved around him, his hand whipped back and snapping his neck. He resumed his stride, entering the wellspring of the temple.

The elders gaped at him, moments before being swallowed by a wave of dark power. The wellspring centered in a room covered by inscriptions of life and growth. The wellspring itself appeared no more than a deep pool, though the Pharaoh’s could sense the roaring power emanating from it.

This power, fostering incredible growth and life throughout China, flowed from the void. The Dragon Emperor came from there, as well as other monsters. Now, the Pharoah would expand the gate, and the Black Soul Gem he had spent so many years creating would act as the bait. It’s size and pure power made it impractical to transport as he had originally planned, and the failure of the Atlantean invasion had forced him to be more discrete. But he had formed a connection between this site and the soul gem.

The Pharaoh began the preparations for the ritual. This would require careful haste. He allowed himself a grin. The Void monster who slumbered between worlds and whispered in his dreams would soon arrive, and the Pharaoh would become a god in truth.

The storm came to Arkanus, the capital of Egypt and home of the Oynx Pyramid. The skies crackled with power, black clouds rolling above as two Sindari descended on a garrison of soldiers on the outskirts of the city. Lightening flashes down from the sky, bursting apart the building, sending molten stone and flaming wood flying away. 3 more times Wavebringer called down the lightening, sending a small tower down. The thunder rolled over the city, and when it faded there was deafening silence. Cries arose from the rubble, and shouts from the city as the citizens of Arcanus ran, some towards and others away.
A guard stumbled to his feet. His face and body was scorched from the heat of the lightening strikes, but he leveled his spear and charged at the 2 Sindari. Archaementes drew his twin swords and with a quick slash sent the mans head and body tumbling to the ground. Few stirred in the rubble.

The two Sindari faced the gathering crowd. The faces of Arkanus’ citizens were hostile and wary. Most lived good lives in the capital city and were loyal to the Pharaoh. As the Sindari began to deliver their message that the gods had turned against the Pharaoh and his rule. They could not help but listen, for what could summon this power except the gods themselves? Darius , skimming through the crowd, bound the will of the most resistant citizens, making them enthusiastic for the Sindari. The crowd gradually swelled as Wavebringer and Archaementes delivered a vicious indictment of the Pharaoh. The sound of marching boots announced the coming of the Pharaoh’s men, and a choice would have to be made to retreat or fight the oncoming soldiers.

On the other side of the world, Turangol sat on the deck of the expedition ship in the Pacific Ocean. His mind was awhirl with all the possibilities. The Pharaoh had eclipsed everything, throwing dark shadows across the rest of the future. He saw Octavian in front of the Dark Soul Gem. Taking it would present its own dangers, but leaving it would allow whatever monster the Pharaoh was trying to summon able to cross. The Dragon Emperor would likely be lost, rushing to the Northern Temple to stop the Pharaoh’s scheme, unaware of the Hunter lying in wait. Where does Turangol focus his efforts?

First things first, break apart the lines and circles and sigils and whatever that the Pharaoh set up here. Never know what those might do if left alone, but they definitely don't do anything when they aren't there.

Then abscond with the gem. Or hit it with my anti-magic tonfas if that seems like the right thing to do.
The other Sindari will probably be able to tell me which one is needed.

Turangol will use a Soul Gem and Telepathy (skill rank 18) to send a message to the Dragon Emperor before he is caught in the ambush:
"The Hunter lies in wait for you, and your death waits with him, let the Sindari end the Pharaoh's summoning. Three Sindari are in Egypt now, prepared to disrupt the ritual's key, the black soul gem. Remain in your palace, so that we can aid you when our brethren have escaped Egypt. The new Sindari, Darius, should reach Prince Tal shortly with one of his birds. He will relay messages as fast as possible, I must ensure that Octavian succeeds in his sabotage."

Sometimes, it is necessary to be heard. "OCTAVIAN DON'T BREAK ANYTHING YET!"

Turangol will quickly look back at the problems with damaging the array, removing the gem, and destroying the gem, in that order, taking as little time as possible and relaying his findings to Octavian and the rest of the Sindari as he goes.

Spoiler: Zakoss (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: City Haven (click to show/hide)

Spoiler: Fluff (click to show/hide)

10 year plan:

Zakoss:

5 years attempting to optimize/improve the current teleportation system.

5 years learning a new spell category: Ta cold, obviously the exact opposite of Ta Heat. Nearly identical applications.

City Haven:

5 years spent applying fair work laws. Laws reviewed by people and the nobles during the 5 year period.

5 years spent afterword developing official military

Desired results:

Children being able to attend school full time.

Haven having a military presence for defense

Teleportation system more optimized.

Spell category Ta - Cold 2 > 10

Perception 6 > 8

As the crowd cheered their support for the Sindari, Archaementes cocked his head as his heightened hearing hear the sound of hundreds of boots marching toward them. The Pharaoh's soldiers will be upon them soon.

"We now have the enemy's attention," he said to Wavebringer as he looked upward at the stormy skies above, which were getting angrier every second. "However, Octavian may require more time to complete his task. Personally, I would like to fight to keep them distracted but, as you are more experienced than me as a Sindari, I will defer to you if you believe that we should run."

If Wavebringer wants to retreat, Archaementes will keep the enemy off him. However, if he wants to fight, Archaementes will lead the attack on the enemy, using Force Vibrate and Force Dash to devastating effect.

The Black Soul Gem

Turangol’s message entered the mind of the Dragon Emperor, warning him to go back. The great dragon snorted, black smoke streaming out of his nostrils as he continued on his way. He appreciated the warning, but he was the closest one to the temple and he had to stop this desecration.

A quick look into Octavian’s future showed some measure of danger. Destroying the array of markings would disrupt the Pharaohs ritual, but could potential cause a buildup of energy. Removing the gem would cause... Turangol couldn’t see down that path in the time that he had. It seems that the interaction between Octavian and the gem distorted the future. Destroying the gem could cause an explosion that would destroy the pyramid, and Octavian with it.

Turangol transmits this information to Octavian as he breaks the first circle surrounding the Black Soul Gem. Nothing spectacular happens, except for a rising pressure that Octavian can feel on his body. The Black Soul Gem seems to grow darker.

~~Hmn. Breaking the runes doesn't seem to really work.~~ I'm confused, yes it does.
Unless anyone here can think of a better way to solve this: build up a teleport charge and keep breaking the sigils. If an explosion happens, run like hell, hoping my luck-enchanted clothing will get me out safely. If I get caught in the explosion, send my Sindariness off to Ahote and hope my remains and equipment are recoverable.
Of course, if at any time I'm able to teleport out (after the sigils are broken, that is), do so - to somewhere in the middle of Russia first, so that if I'm tracked, it won't get the Cisharni to anywhere useful.

Quote from: Sir Elventide on September 10, 2018, 01:51:22 pm

"We now have the enemy's attention," he said to Wavebringer as he looked upward at the stormy skies above, which were getting angrier every second. "However, Octavian may require more time to complete his task. Personally, I would like to fight to keep them distracted but, as you are more experienced than me as a Sindari, I will defer to you if you believe that we should run."

Wavebringer smiled as thunder rumbled overhead. "Yes, they do seem to have noticed us. Shall we show these people what a couple Sindari can do?"
He took out a pair of soul gems and prepared to call down lightning when the soldiers arrived.

Quote from: Madman198237 on September 09, 2018, 04:37:06 pm

Turangol will use a Soul Gem and Telepathy (skill rank 18) to send a message to the Dragon Emperor before he is caught in the ambush:
"The Hunter lies in wait for you, and your death waits with him, let the Sindari end the Pharaoh's summoning. Three Sindari are in Egypt now, prepared to disrupt the ritual's key, the black soul gem. Remain in your palace, so that we can aid you when our brethren have escaped Egypt. The new Sindari, Darius, should reach Prince Tal shortly with one of his birds. He will relay messages as fast as possible, I must ensure that Octavian succeeds in his sabotage."

Quote from: chubby2man on September 13, 2018, 09:29:16 am

The Black Soul Gem

Turangol’s message entered the mind of the Dragon Emperor, warning him to go back. The great dragon snorted, black smoke streaming out of his nostrils as he continued on his way. He appreciated the warning, but he was the closest one to the temple and he had to stop this desecration. [...]

Due to the telepathic bond that Amelia had with the rest, she sensed the warning go out and beyond--and currently, she was particularly one of the few who were able to intercept.

In the past decade, the naval force she had personally overseen became capable of crossing the seas; adding short-range teleporters was not the most difficult modification, but concealing it from enemy eyes was the major obstacle. Even trade ships bound for China were outfitted with these characteristics. All these she would use to try and forestall the danger lying in wait, and bring in any other Sindari needed to just ensure the Dragon Emperor survived the assault by a Cisharni hunter.

She needn't kill or otherwise, just to buy time.

Teleport-deployment to the Dragon Emperor's location, thanks to all that triangulation by Turangol and others' abilities in pinpointing where the danger is, and where in between the Emperor's quickest path would be.

Forestall his death!

Archaementes sneered. "Though I haven't killed someone before, at least with intention, perhaps now is the time to show these human soldiers why they shouldn't trifle with the gods."

Wavebringer looked at Archaementes in concern. "We are not gods, merely the agents of one. We must not forget that."

Quote from: Sir Elventide on September 14, 2018, 09:04:22 am

Archaementes sneered. "Though I haven't killed someone before, at least with intention, perhaps now is the time to show these human soldiers why they shouldn't trifle with the gods."

You're starting to sound REALLY like the Cisharni...

Quote from: Sir Elventide on September 14, 2018, 09:04:22 am

Archaementes sneered. "Though I haven't killed someone before, at least with intention, perhaps now is the time to show these human soldiers why they shouldn't trifle with the gods."

Don't be arrogant, Archae.

"Whoops," Archaementes said with a stunned whisper though whether it was because he realized how prideful he sounded or simply because someone actually called him out on his arrogance remained to be seen. "Must not forget that we are partly human also."

Pausing, Archaementes continued in the High Language so that the humans can't hear them. "Of course, given our abilities and longevity, most people would begin to wonder just how long we can keeping connecting emotionally with the humans. I mean, their lifespans are a blink of an eye in our perception of time and their... lesser minds aren't equipped to handle or comprehend the type and scale of long term planning and machinations that creatures of immortality like us are able to do. Perhaps we connect more with Sind than with humanity? Perhaps the Cisharni were once like us before centuries of influencing human civilizations, decadence, and active rule took their toil?"

Quote from: Sir Elventide on September 15, 2018, 12:46:05 pm

"Of course, given our abilities and longevity, most people would begin to wonder just how long we can keeping connecting emotionally with the humans. I mean, their lifespans are a blink of an eye in our perception of time and their... lesser minds aren't equipped to handle or comprehend the type and scale of long term planning and machinations that creatures of immortality like us are able to do. Perhaps we connect more with Sind than with humanity? Perhaps the Cisharni were once like us before centuries of influencing human civilizations, decadence, and active rule took their toil?"

For fucks sake, mate, shut up.

Allow me to paraphrase Octavian: Arch, you are not supposed to be thinking of smear propaganda the Cisharni can put out about us

Grinning, Archaementes shrugged. "Very well then, I'd end this conversation for now. However do try not to forget this subject when years turn into centuries and subsequent tragedies and circumstances harden our hearts."

Find somewhere out of sight where I can observe what goes down without being in the thick of it.

Mentally describe the story of the Sindari and Cisharni to the people I've mind controlled. Gloss over sensitive details like where or who we are, just give them images of the Cisharni killing Sind, burning the elves, etc. then of us resisting, fighting alongside the Chinese, etc. Relinquish my control over them and let them decide whether to stay and fight or go and spread the word of the Sindari. Keep enough of a mental link that I can tell and stop them if they're going to betray us to the Cisharni

Canceled pending more debate

I, for one, have never been in the business of lording over other humans. I exert what influence I can gather to push them toward a righteous course, and then withdraw to my own devices.

And I certainly don't invade their minds and bend them to my will using magic, set plagues upon them, or destroy the food they need to survive.

Archaementes nodded as he folded his arms. He could bring up the incident of how Rome's destruction started with moldy grain someone created but now is not the time for fault finding. "Whatever each of our methods are, we are ultimately stewards of the human race. We do have to guide them after the Atlantean Empire crumbles and the Cisharni die with it after all, often in ways that are best for them no matter how unpopular. I may not be Turangol but even I foresee hard choices to be made on the horizon and the amount of resolve needed to make them and the live with the consequences. Nevertheless, the humans will depend on our guidance until they are self-sufficient and then we will watch from the shadows to make sure they don't destroy themselves."

Pausing, Archaementes continued. "After all, we are the good guys, right?"

Send another message to the Dragon Emperor: "Octavian has already succeeded, though, he is ruining the ritual array as we speak, and no matter what he can stop the ritual before it is completed. Jeopardizing your life puts all three sanctuaries at risk, for we, the Sindari, do not know how best to defend them or indeed what to watch out for. The world needs you to survive, and the Pharaoh is no fool. He knows that you are coming, knows that I can sometimes see his plans, he will expect you to reach him and be prepared for it. Survive, so that you can defend all of the sanctuaries, do not spend your life on a battle that we have already one."

Then proceed to search the futures concerning the destruction of the ritual array---how long do we have before something happens? As before, share all with Octavian and company.

So we are, in theory. I hope that we can remember this before more drastic measures than strong words are required.

Bay 12 Games Forum

Finally... => Forum Games and Roleplaying => Topic started by: chubby2man on August 08, 2017, 10:38:59 am