[center][h1]An Exploration of Governance[/h1][/center]
[i][indent]...and finally I wish to bring into consideration the latest events of the Goblin Underground. According to many established scholars, the goblin underground was provided for by the Lord Galaxor. The Cornocopia provides it with food and the Orb of Air provides it with clean, fresh air necessary to sustain life. This made the city known as the Goblin Underground a venerable hub of life and merchant activity. Through my travels, I can already attest to the metropolitan size it took on.

However, as noted in the treatise on agriculture and it explosive effects upon population: “At a certain point, a locale’s population exceeds the agricultural capacity of the surrounding area. Innovation must constantly strive not just for wealth but to fend off starvation” (Aucer, S. (Unanchored Time). Treatise on Agriculture and its effects upon population. Tricity Library: Snouter Weekly, page 23 - 37). In the case of the Goblin Underground, an additional and unique situation developed: the Orb of Air was not capable of replenishing enough air. The results were scenes of starvation and squalor. As the population grew exponentially, the unique architectural and construction challenges were not bested.

My findings conclude that Galaxor, despite having the often noted capacity of divine foresight, has utterly lacked the capacity to anticipate struggles on a macro-civic level. One has to question why he created a civilization so deep underground that would suffer so many difficulties. One must further question why the god let the squalor and famine rage at all. Finally, his reactionary response (the creation of Dominion) could only be seen as most devastating. As recent letters from Arbor conclude that an earthquake rocked it fierce, claiming a not inconsiderate amount of lives.[/indent][/i]

Irrithae leaned back as she cleaned the liquid divinium quill she held in her hand. This was not her first treatise she wrote while staying at what was now known as the Dominion. The others had been lesser creations though. Nothing more than simple reports and light observations on methods and results of governance. This latest treatise would probably be seen as a a hit piece, if not an insult. The people of the Dominion, formerly known as the Goblin Underground, were quite reverent of Galaxor. It was easy to understand why. Compared to what was before, the city was a haven to those who dwelled so deep underground. Irrithae, for her part, did not share the fervor though.

She did not think her observations were incorrect. There was a failing of responsibility that had led to a shortage of food, air and housing. In Arbor, she would’ve been responsible for such failings for sure. Down here the powers and responsibilities were spread differently. With the creation of the Cornucopia and the Orb of Air Galaxor had assumed culpability over their shortages.

She pitied Maxima. The goblin ruler had been confronted with challenges mortals could not yet face. She had theorized that this might be Galaxor’s deliberate goal but there was no knowing for sure. Her quill was dry, and she let the divinium return to her. Still, she had a duty towards a fellow ruler to help Maxima out.

The Prophetess of Allianthé rose up from her chair as she let her eyes wander to the second treatise. It was a smaller thing. Something that could be confused for a thin book. Besides the near tome that Irrithae had written it looked inconsequential. It was far more important than the near-tome though. It contained within the unified ideas, methods and goals that Irrithae saw necessary for good governance. It spoke about practical necessities of governance like censuses, taxes and the provision of the necessities of life for a population. It also spoke on ideas such as innovation and education, and why and how those concepts should be fostered.

It was not perfect. Many of the ideas remained untested and even the most dull-spirited administrator would find it a tedious creation. That did not lessen its importance to Irrithae. It was a plan and a vision of her near future. She took the first pile of books and started wandering through the great Library. Time was weird, even with the Time Anchor Device she had gotten it felt as if both only days and years had passed. Other scholars passed her as she put away the books. Some she had borrowed since she had gotten here. Other scrolls were momentary necessities. S. Aucer’s treatise was just another quote she needed to catch eyes. The many books from the dwarven thirteen kingdoms were of a vastly greater importance. She returned them too. Her fingers would not brush their spines for decades. She would miss them.

There were the scrolls of Syllan. Their expertise upon craftsmanship and industry had no rival so far. That would change once she returned to Arbor, especially with the aid of the Forge. There were other places that had inspired her. Tales of small settlements, or the ravaging hordes in the deserts beyond the Origin Lands. She returned those scrolls and tablets as well. This was her farewell. Silent yet deeply intimate with inanimate objects.

She returned to her room. It was huge, with a large central desk. After hours of returning books, scrolls and other holders of information it was strangely empty. Only the candles and her own two treaties remained. The thick one. She hadn’t titled it. The front page was left blank. She was sure someone would name it or burn it. She extinguished the last few candles. The room grew a bit darker each time. With every candle deadened she felt her heart drop a little bit. This was the end of a massive and important part of her life. One she wasn’t sure would end, and yet now it had. A few more candles died by her fingers. Until the last one in a candle holder remained. She picked up the smaller one titled: A gift from Crown to Crown.

Moments later, and without the candleholder, she stood outside the Library in the scalding heat again. She left much like she had entered, with only a small bag. “Uaisle?” She asked.

From the corner of her vision it appeared. A small male fairy. “At your service, ma’am. Shall I guide you to Arbor?”

“Not yet. I have one more place to visit.”

The veil was new to Irrithae, but her divine blessing allowed her to move through it confidently. She moved through the forests with the guide of Uaisle, until she reached an area where the wind billowed around. “Through here, ma’am.” Uaisle beckoned to a very, very dark crag. When she stepped out of the dark she found herself standing in the shadow of an underground house, in Obsidian Reach.

Life in the Dominion seemed to be perfect after the Great Migration as the event started to be called by the locals. Overpopulation seemed to have disappeared overnight, food was being harvested from the Obsidian Sea or hunters would go out in the new tunnels to catch meatbugs and other smaller underground creatures. 

Breathable air was not an issue either with so many tunnels opening up to the surface alongside the many underground trees that existed everywhere in Obsidian Reach. This made the Orb Of Air have an emergency purpose only and was kept in the throne room of Maxima. 

Even the once absolutely needed Cornucopia seemed only to be used to produce the rarest of meals and only in times of feasting or national holidays as to not waste food. The squalor from before was a thing of the past, there were no homeless people anymore. Especially due to Maxima’s crown, that seemed to make thoughts such as “stealing, killing, cheating” not even cross the minds of the goblins. 

Sure, there were a few other races living in the city but it didn’t matter in the long run. Everyone had a job and the people were happy. The new forums made the old ones seem like a pub gathering, with a large arena for all the big “fights” and few smaller ones all over the city. It was a good life. 

There were still some challenges that Maxima was working on fixing, such as needs for newer technologies to be developed as artisans simply got bored of doing the same things and lack of fast transportation devices but in comparison to the issues of the past, these were nothing.

The basement of the house the Irrithae appeared in was a simple storage space. Crates filled with different food with a strange machinery on top was all she could see. Well, that, and a petite, very startled old goblin woman on the floor.

“He-hey you! Where, how! HEEEEEELP! HEEEEELP! INVADER!” started the goblin before standing up and shouting from the top of her lungs, way louder than one would expect from such a small old lady.

“Apologies for the intrusion, madame.” Irrithae said calmly, despite the panicked response from the goblin. She didn’t move away either. Such things tended to make a situation worse. She could feel the presence of Uaisle around though. The fairy had much less patience with plebeians. She knew what he wished to do, so without moving her arm from her side she made a careful, small sign telling him to stop and wait. “I will leave, if you’ll permit me.”

The small goblin continued screaming, before a door opened from above and in came two more goblins. These goblins were younger with a bright blue skin and dressed in armor with two gemstones in each shoulder, signifying their increased status.

“Halt in the name of Maxima! Identify yourself or prepare to be taken in custody and brought before the leader herself for judgment!” said the first goblin as they took their spears out and pointed them at Irrithae.

“Please, take me.” The Syllian simply said, as she held out her open hands. She didn’t move otherwise. It was clearly an easy enough way to get to Maxima. There was no fear on her face though. Her entire body language radiated calm. Not so much for the goblins’ sake as for Uaisle.

The first goblin shook his head in disbelief at her nonchalant tone and lack of resistance but approached her and took a rope that hung on his waist and tied her hands, as the second goblin pointed the spear at Irrithae’s throat. 

With their captive in tow, they climbed the stairs and went out in what seemed to be a humble abode. Paintings hung on the walls depicting different goblins, the furniture was made out of simple obsidian and on the side, another door led to what seemed to be a kitchen based on the cooked fish smell that Irrithae could smell.

As they walked out the old goblin from before followed them up and shouted something at Irrithae in an older form of goblin language which made the guards chuckle.

Outside the house, they were greeted by a busy street and many other houses that looked similar to the one they got out of. Irrithae, unwillingly, teleported herself to the poorer part of Obsidian Reach, the 6th level. Yet despite being the poorer level of Obsidian Reach, one could notice that the people who lived here, goblins or otherwise, were quite well taken care of. 

Most of the goblins that the group passed by, were dressed in modest robes, armor or leather clothing. Here and there, one would sport a gemstone on a weapon or garments. 

Irrithae, for her part, just walked along and admired the many goblins and their works. Her discerning eye could see some inequality left and right but that was to be expected. The region was surprisingly filled and busy. Which only further proved her predictions. Wordlessly she carried on. Goblins chuckled but in truth she cared little.

As they went forward they reached a massive staircase that led upwards towards the 5th level of Obsidian Reach. Going upwards, one would notice the change in the general appearance and upon exiting the stairwell, a plaque read, in big bold letters: “Crafts Level”. Followed below it, a few more plaques followed, each written in a different language. 

Just as they passed through the gates that marked the start of the level, the two goblins stopped abruptly. One of them quickly undid Irrithae’s restraints, while the other one continued looking forward.

“Have a good day!” they said after Irrithae was free before leaving her all alone. Well, as alone one can be in a busy city.

Irrithae let out a bemused chuckle as she was released. She looked around as the two goblins left her alone. There wasn’t anyone immediately ready to receive her. Interesting. Perhaps Maxima wanted to show off the goblin craftsmen. Irrithae would’ve loved to observe however duty was calling. She made her way along the road as her eyes darted around to see the next big staircase.

As Irrithae walked, she discovered only empty shops and empty streets. Everything seemed to have been abandoned. The whole district or at least what Irrithae could see or hear.

And…then, a loud trumpet-like sound rang through the whole level coming from what seemed to be an arena in the middle. Soon after, a voice, a very loud voice, could be heard saying “Maxima against Farah for the leadership of the Dominion!” followed by what seemed like the screams of thousands of people at once.

The Syllian raised a sculpted, liquid divinium eyebrow. “It would appear that this Maxima is pre-occupied, ma’am.” Uaisle said as the fairy again appeared just from the edges of Irrithae’s vision. “Perhaps a courier from Arbor would have more luck.” The fairy spoke not without reason. If she was called back it was done so by the goddess herself. Valuable minutes were being wasted as duty was calling.

“How could we ever trade and prosper with the good people of Dominion if we cannot be patient through their antics and traditions?” She asked the fairy.

“Spoken as a diplomat, my lady. Thus I must remind you who you are: Irrithae, Prophetes of Allianthé and Steward of Arbor. Yours is a city of the world. You are not a mere diplomat”

“And yet I will wait.” Irrithae said steadfast. “I will not enter the stage without having attempted to make a friend out of an actor.” The fairy let out a sigh but Irrithae walked off towards the grand arena to see what was happening.

The more she approached the arena, the louder the screams of the crowd became only for them to stop abruptly. Suddenly only one male voice could be heard, while most of the words were intelligible, a few struck out more than others. “War. Over. Control. Goblins”, after each word there was a grasp from the crowd. As soon as Farah finished his speech, a female voice rang across the arena. Strong and powerful. 

By the time Irrithae finally reached the arena, Maxima finished her speech and cheers from the crowd started again. Minutes later, groups of goblins started to trickle out of the arena. Hundreds of them. Each wearing clothes that were clearly not for craftsmen. Guards, poor people, a few governmental employees with at least 4 gemstones each, fishermen and so on.

Irrithae waited for the throng of people to move around her. Her eyes darted from person to person, often sticking on the gems worn by some of them. It was an expensive custom to be sure but Irrithae could admire its importance. When the greatest mass of the goblins had passed she carefully made her way into the arena towards Maxima.

Only to be met, just after she took a few steps, by a female goblin. She was dressed in what seemed to be full gemstone armor. Each body part was covered in different colored gemstones. On her head, the [url=https://i.pinimg.com/originals/38/77/35/3877352925bff496db21d164cb2df018.jpg]Crown Of Command[/url] stood. A bright blue diamond laid in the middle, glowing a bright blue light. Her long red hair with a few streaks of white, flowed down her shoulders and back.

Maxima, stopped, looked at Irrithae up and down before nodding at her with a smile on her face.

“[color=red]Greetings, Irrithae. [/color]” 

“It’s an honor to meet the queen of the Dominion.” Irrithae said, as she made a deep bow. “Though I must profess that I had expected to find you in some palace.” Her eyes scanned the arena. “Nor did I think someone like you would have their leadership challenged.” Irrithae found that the most baffling. Changes of power are always the most vulnerable moments of a civilization. To let it happen so openly, so publicly, felt irresponsible.

“[color=red]The honor is mine. You’re lucky to be able to study under Galaxor. [/color]” she replied with a slight nod of her head. “[color=red]My throne room is on the second level, this is a forum or arena if you want to call it that. [/color]” before making a friendly “who me?”  face and giving Irrathe a smile. “[color=red]Someone like me? You mean, someone who can control the masses with a single thought? I could override the will of all the goblins that challenge me, that is true. Yet that’s now who I am. [/color]” 

Maxima started walking and indicated that Irrathe should follow her. “[color=red]Here in the Dominion we believe that everyone’s opinion matters. You got a grievance against someone? You can issue a “challenge”, a duel of wits and a council of your peers and a sage are formed. It only becomes so public when matters that affect the whole of the Dominion. I’ve never lost a duel in all of our history, yet there are one or two that have more radical ideas…Freedom of speech is important. I hope you can agree with that. [/color]”

“I don’t.” Irrithae said without reservation, nor did she wish to expand upon that remark. “Your prowess in these duels must be legendary then.” Irrithae continued. “I am surprised you were challenged regardless.” It was admirable, though not something she herself would ever do. “I must beg your forgiveness, Queen Maxima. I cannot remain for long. The Living City calls for me. I am to take the stage I was destined to take. Though I’d wish that my ascension would not be without a friend upon the grand stage of the world’s rulers.” She pulled out the thin yet important treatise. “During my studies I began writing this treatise.” Irrithae stopped walking to insist upon the importance of the moment. “It’s a collection of my the knowledge I gleaned at the Library combined with the experience I gained as Steward of Arbor. It is, in a way, also the blueprint of how Arbor would be ruled and governed. I offer it to you because I am certain that it contains valuable lessons for you as well, on how to rule Dominion.”

Maxima chuckled at Irrithae’s answer before replying “[Color=red]Bold to disagree with the ruler of a nation you're trying to be on peaceful terms with. I wouldn't call my skills legendary but with age comes wisdom and I am one of the oldest goblins alive, on Galbar. Been around just a bit after the Life Tree was created. [/color]”, waving at a few goblins that were working at a shop they passed by, Maxima continued “[color=red]For most it's just fun. A way to test themselves. They're trying to learn from the best. They know they can't win but they try nonetheless. But I digress. There are no friends in politics, Irrithae, learn that now before it'll be too late. [/color]” with a knowing nod, Maxima stopped to give a few pointers to a craftsman in definite need of them “[color=red]Apologies, he would've destroyed that metal if he continued working it like that. Now, [/color]” she said with an apologetic smile before taking the treaty and giving it a quick over read “[color=red]I'll give it a proper read once we're done, but I thank you for the insight in your nation and an outsider’s on mine. I've got no interest in war, so if there is a way to avoid it…I'd prefer it. Everyone loses in war, the winner and the loser. [/color]”

The goblin’s words only made Irrithae worry for the Dominion. She had hoped the grand city could be Arbor’s ally. Instead Maxima seemed to not share her ideals on friendship, even on the grander stages of the world. Worse, Maxima’s perception of the world seemed almost idealistic. To think of winners and losers in a war is both necessary and a gross simplification. There were other idealistic differences as well which made the Syllian shudder. No, an alliance would not be possible right now. Worse, she would have to make sure that merchants of both cities would be well educated on the customs of each other.

“I must beg my leave then.” Irrithae said with a polite bow, before quickly moving away. She turned away and away again, getting some distance in between her and the ruler of the Dominion. “Forgive me goddess.” She whispered. Valuable time had been wasted already. 

“[Color=red]As you wish. Feel free to visit again, I know I'll visit Arbor one day. Hope I'll see you around. It was interesting meeting a different leader. You're interesting, Irrathae. Looking forward to seeing how your rule will shape Arbor. [/color]” she replied as turned around to leave, Galaxor gave her a warning, invaders at the shore but before she redirected troops over, she called out at Irrithae. “[Color=red]Remember this. I shan't permit anyone to harm my people. Friend, ally or otherwise. [/color]” her voice was like steel, the threat clear in it.

The Syllian was soon back into the Veil. There would be no more waylays. No more distractions and failed endeavours. She made her way through the Veil in silent contemplation. The newly founded Dominion would not be the ally she knew she needed. At first it deeply saddened her. They could’ve achieved so much together. Yet the goblins’ idealism - or Maxima’s - would restrict it, that much she knew for sure.

There were other cities though. Tricity, that amalgam of… almost everything. If she couldn’t attain an alliance with those who ruled then she could still make moves upon the other factions within the city. Then there was Syllan. A haven for her own kind. It was embroiled in a war though.

Again she crawled through a small crag to exit the Veil. She was expecting nothing. No ceremony, barely any surprise from those who’d see her. Instead she found herself in a place she hadn’t seen for a while: the Tree of Life. It was so marred that she could barely recognize it from the inside. “Goddess, what happened?” She said to herself.

“A conflict.” 

Irrithae turned around to face the goddess, with her new halo behind her.

“Welcome back Irrithae.” Allianthé said with a smile, and for a moment the divine and the mortal hugged. Though Allianthé released her quickly again. “Forgive me for calling you back so suddenly. As always the world is in flux. The threat of the Outer Beasts is diminished, for now at least. Meanwhile new opportunities arose. I could not keep Arbor rudderless for much longer.”

“I understand.” Irrithae said. “So what can I do?”

[hider=Summary]Irrithae finishes a thick treatise, which in general is a piece examining Galaxor’s conduct with the Goblin Underground. It is quite critical of him. Then she starts returning the various books and scrolls that she borrowed from the Library as she reflects upon her time here and her future. It’s a farewell, as Allianthé had called her back to Arbor.

Still, she wants to make a small detour first. She is able to travel through the Veil and reaches the Dominion. A goblin working the place in which Irrithae found herself was quite angry and called the guards. Who escorted her to a higher level of the Dominion and then let her go. Irrithae turned towards the large arena in which a battle of wits was held between Maxima and a contender for the Dominion’s leadership. Maxima wins, and after a pause to let the people leave Irrithae reaches her.

The Syllan offers her a treatise on general governance, the result of Irri’s study at the Library. The two rulers share some thoughts and words, but no lasting friendship is established. Irrithae’s outlook on the Dominion and Maxima changed and the Syllan made her quick exit.

In Arbor, she steps out of the Veil into the Tree of Life where she finds Allianthé. The two share a hug and Irrithae says she is ready for what’s coming next.[/hider]

[hider=MP]
[b]Allianthé Start:[/b] 16
Nothing used
[b]Allinathé End:[/b] 16
[/hider]