Full name: Michael “Mike” Cooper Age: 24 Date of Birth: December 17th Gender: Male Where are you from?: New York Occupation: University student with a major in history and psychology. Bartender at trance.
》A p p e a r a n c e
Height: 6.2 Weight: 82 kg Hair Color: Blond Hair Length: Short Skin Color: Caucacian Eye Color: Green Tattoos, Piercings, etc skin markings: None Detail your werewolf form:
》R e l a t i o n s h i p s
Sexuality: Gay Relationship Status: Single Any pre-determined friends?: Siblings' Status: Younger brother named Finn Parents' Status: Jeremiah and Allysa Cooper, Alive Pets:None How open is your character to friends from 1 to 10?: 7 How open is your character to romance from 1 to 10?: 7
》I n t e r e s t s
Likes: Three minimum. ✡History ✡Art ✡Literature ✡Classical music Dislikes: Three minimum. ✡Violence ✡His father ✡Pack/Clan/Coven politics Hobbies: Three minimum. ✡Playing the violin ✡Going out ✡Reading classic literature Skills: Three minimum. ✡Excellent bartender and expert at mixing cocktails ✡Highly intelligent ✡Extremely insightful and perceptive ✡ Excellent chess player
Additional Picture/Quote/etc Optional
》P e r s o n a l i t y ✡ Calm ✡ Patient ✡ Introverted ✡ Social ✡ Steadfast in his believes ✡ kind hearted
Where his younger brother is often described as a bouncing ball full of energy and erratic decision making, Mike on the other hand is always very calm and patient. He prefers to think things through rather than jumping into action on a whim.
Mike has a caring heart for anyone but especially for his younger brother. In a way, he’s more of a father to Finn than their father ever was. A role he adopted from an early age. Unlike his parents, Mike has the gift to truly connect with the people he chooses to engage with and to see what they need even when those people are still unaware of that need.
Mike is very steadfast in his beliefs and morality. He shuns violence and strongly believes that all groups could live together if they truly would put in the effort to set their differences aside. He ofter prefers to focus on the good aspects of persons even when they are buried deep below layers of pent up feelings and twisted morality.
》H i s t o r y
Mike is the eldest son of Jeremiah and Allysa Cooper and elder brother to Finn. Where his younger brother was a chaotic ball of endless energy Mike was a quiet and introverted kid who prefered activities such as reading and drawing where his younger brother would run around, climb trees, do sports and get into fights. Activities you’d expect from a boy.
In the eyes of Jeremiah, his eldest son Mike always lacked the masculine qualities a true pureblood male werewolf should possess. Despite his father never blatantly saying it out loud, Mike always knew he regarded him as a failure and an insult to the superior werewolf kind. He could simply see it in the eyes of his father and read it in between the lines of the words he spoke.
The older Mike got, the more he would get at odds with his father. When Jeremiah announced that he had made an arrangement to have Mike married to the daughter of another pureblood wolf family in New York he simply and calmly stated that he had no interest in girls. Needless to say that a huge fight broke out.
Eventually Mike decided to leave his parental house and pack in order to live on his own. He applied to Ember Grove University and moved to the small town far away from his father. Regardless of the distance, he always remained in close contact with his younger Brother Finn. Occasionally he would come back to New York to watch his younger brother fight in the ring.
The first year at Ember Grove university was a rather quiet one. Mike just lived his life as regular humans and no one ever found out that he was something more than his peers. However about four weeks ago his secret leaked out and information about him being a werewolf somehow got into the hands of Operation Humanity.
On his way back home from his side job as a bartender, Mike got confronted by Hunters of Operation Humanity. But rather than to fight, he offered to get along peacefully. Ever since that day, Mike is detained by Operation Humanity in their facility near Ember Grove.
》P a c k Omega werewolf, used to be part of the Cooper pack back in New York.
I am new to tabletop gaming, and I can't very well go over to my friend's house so he can teach me. So I need someone to guide me to a good place to start. Is there somewhere here that would be good, or is there somewhere else I can look? I really love the idea of D&D and I would love to start somewhere. Well, somewhere gentle hopefully. I have lots of questions!
Start with finding a gaming group. Dependig on where you live thatbcan be either face to face (maybe hard during corona times) or online.
There are sites like roll20.net to game on and people often use skype or discord for communication.
Best thing to do when you find a group is letting them know that youre entirely new to the system well in advance and ask them for help before the first session is even planned.
For a smooth experience for everyone on the table make sure you come prepared. That means you understand the basic mechanics and how your character functions on a mechanical level. Nothing more anyoning then having a player at the table who takes 10 minutes every turn to look up what they can do and what dice to roll :)
Also there are a billon youtube vids on this topic. Go find them ^^
P.S. If youre Dutch you can drop me a pm because you might be able to.play along in a d&d 5e campaign on roll20 i am part of.
Full name: Finn Cooper Age: 19 Date of Birth: July 2nd Gender: Male Occupation:Professional kickboxer Where are you from?: New York
》A p p e a r a n c e
Height: 5.75 feet Weight: 76 kg Hair Color: Blond Skin Color: Caucasian Eye Color: Brown Build: Fairly muscled Tattoos, Piercings, etc skin markings: None Detail your werewolf form: In his werewolf form Finn is slightly larger, growing to roughly 6 ft while retaining his muscled build. His body is covered in grey fur while Finn’s eyes glow yellow. ________________________________________
》R e l a t i o n s h i p s
Sexuality: Bisexual Relationship Status: Single Any pre-determined friends?: No Siblings' Status: One elder brother, Mike Parents' Status: Both alive and living in New York Pets: No. How open is your character to friends from 1 to 10?: 10 How open is your character to romance from 1 to 10?: 8
》I n t e r e s t s
Likes: ✡ Martial Arts ✡ Making new friends ✡ Well grilled meat Dislikes: ✡ Silver ✡ Hunters ✡ Poorly prepared meat Hobbies: ✡ Working out ✡ Watching old action flicks, he’s a huge fan of Van Damme. ✡ Reading comics Skills: ✡ Finn is an upcoming professional kickboxer. He recently signed a contract with Glory. ✡ Lockpicking ✡ Photographic memory ✡ Solid chess player
Additional Picture/Quote/etc Optional
________________________________________
》P e r s o n a l i t y ✡ Confided ✡ disciplined ✡ Humorous ✡ Social ✡ Desire to prove himself ✡ Energetic Finn used to be a trouble maker when he was younger. Often hanging out with friends, pissing people off and doing petty crimes for the thrill of it. He mostly went through life without a real purpose and could not really let his energy out in any productive and positive way.
However it all changed when he started kickboxing. It was at the gym where Finn learned to use his energy in a productive way. Here he could let it all out in a safe environment and found a purpose. In the gym Finn learned the value of patience and discipline.
》H i s t o r y Finn was born as the youngest of two brothers in New York into a family of werewolves. Where Finn’s elder brother was a quiet and introverted young man, Finn was a chaotic ball of uncontrolled energy that bounced constantly around the neighborhood causing all kinds of trouble for no apparent reason other than his own entertainment. The only reason that the young Finn did not take a wrong turn was due to his elder brother Mike. The two brothers shared a strange relationship.
Mike was the complete opposite of his younger brother. He was quiet, introverted, organized and smart. And yet in a strange way he could get perfectly along with his energetic younger brother. In his own way he looked out for Finn. When Finn would get into trouble, Mike was always there to bail him out. Always telling his younger brother to stay out of trouble while knowing that he would never listen to that advice.
When Finn was arrested 5 years ago because he beat up some local kid, it was once again his elder brother Mike who came to pick him up from the police station. Expecting another talk about how he should behave and stay out of trouble while driving home. However Mike had other plans this time. He didn’t drive home but rather dropped his younger brother off at the local gym and dragged the protesting Finn inside, walked up to one of the coaches and simply said “My brother loves to fight, throw him in the ring so that he can let his energy out.” And that is what they did. After getting home all black and blue Mike expected that his younger brother would never return to the gym. However during the family dinner Finn simply stated that he would return tomorrow to kick the guys ass who used him as a punching bag. Finn started his kickbox training.
Under the tutelage of coach Grayham Wolfe Finn quickly picked up the techniques but struggled with the discipline to follow a game plan for matches. None the less his coach recognized the young man’s talent for the sport. But still Finn’s lack of discipline proved to stand in the way of a true breakthrough. Finn needed something else to train his mind to focus, to analyze and follow a plan in order to become truly great. After losing an important local match that was viewed by a lot of promotors Mike once more stepped in.
After his next training session Finn saw how Mike entered the gym with a chess board under his arm. His elder brother only spoke one word “Play”. Over the course of several months Mike learned his younger brother how to play chess and it became a regular part of Finn’s training regime. It was through the game of chess Finn learned valuable skills such as to analyze an opponent, patience and how to implement and follow strategy. Useful skills he brought back to the ring and soon became a contender for a professional career. It was all thanks to his elder Brother Mike.
Needless to say that Finn was devasted when Mike told him that he would leave New York in order to study history at the Ember Grove University. Even when separated by such a distance, Finn continued the path his elder brother had pushed him on and pursued a professional career in kickboxing while frequently having contact with his brother by phone. When Mike called 4 weeks ago that he had signed a contract with a professional kickboxing organization Mike didn’t answer. Even a few days later Finn’s elder brother hadn’t called back. Over the course of the next 4 weeks Finn frantically tried to get in touch with his brother but never got any response.
Worried that something had happened to Mike Finn inquired with his father, the leader of the Cooper pack if he had heard anything from his elder brother. The Alpha responded negatively. He simply said that if you leave the pack’s territory you leave the pack and whatever happens is no longer my concern. Angered with his father’s response Finn packed his bags and left the family house. Mike always looked out for him and now it was Finn’s turn to do the same. He started his car and Ember Grove was his destination.
________________________________________
》P a c k Finn left the Cooper pack in order to search for his brother. He is currently packless.
》P u r e b l o o d? Finn was born into a family of werewolfs and thus is a pure blood
Mike Cooper
》B a s i c s
Full name: Michael “Mike” Cooper Age: 24 Date of Birth: December 17th Gender: Male Where are you from?: New York Occupation: University student with a major in history and psychology. Bartender at trance.
》A p p e a r a n c e
Height: 6.2 Weight: 82 kg Hair Color: Blond Hair Length: Short Skin Color: Caucacian Eye Color: Green Tattoos, Piercings, etc skin markings: None Detail your werewolf form:
》R e l a t i o n s h i p s
Sexuality: Gay Relationship Status: Single Any pre-determined friends?: Siblings' Status: Younger brother named Finn Parents' Status: Jeremiah and Allysa Cooper, Alive Pets:None How open is your character to friends from 1 to 10?: 7 How open is your character to romance from 1 to 10?: 7
》I n t e r e s t s
Likes: Three minimum. ✡History ✡Art ✡Literature ✡Classical music Dislikes: Three minimum. ✡Violence ✡His father ✡Pack/Clan/Coven politics Hobbies: Three minimum. ✡Playing the violin ✡Going out ✡Reading classic literature Skills: Three minimum. ✡Excellent bartender and expert at mixing cocktails ✡Highly intelligent ✡Extremely insightful and perceptive ✡ Excellent chess player
Additional Picture/Quote/etc Optional
》P e r s o n a l i t y ✡ Calm ✡ Patient ✡ Introverted ✡ Social ✡ Steadfast in his believes ✡ kind hearted
Where his younger brother is often described as a bouncing ball full of energy and erratic decision making, Mike on the other hand is always very calm and patient. He prefers to think things through rather than jumping into action on a whim.
Mike has a caring heart for anyone but especially for his younger brother. In a way, he’s more of a father to Finn than their father ever was. A role he adopted from an early age. Unlike his parents, Mike has the gift to truly connect with the people he chooses to engage with and to see what they need even when those people are still unaware of that need.
Mike is very steadfast in his beliefs and morality. He shuns violence and strongly believes that all groups could live together if they truly would put in the effort to set their differences aside. He ofter prefers to focus on the good aspects of persons even when they are buried deep below layers of pent up feelings and twisted morality.
》H i s t o r y
Mike is the eldest son of Jeremiah and Allysa Cooper and elder brother to Finn. Where his younger brother was a chaotic ball of endless energy Mike was a quiet and introverted kid who prefered activities such as reading and drawing where his younger brother would run around, climb trees, do sports and get into fights. Activities you’d expect from a boy.
In the eyes of Jeremiah, his eldest son Mike always lacked the masculine qualities a true pureblood male werewolf should possess. Despite his father never blatantly saying it out loud, Mike always knew he regarded him as a failure and an insult to the superior werewolf kind. He could simply see it in the eyes of his father and read it in between the lines of the words he spoke.
The older Mike got, the more he would get at odds with his father. When Jeremiah announced that he had made an arrangement to have Mike married to the daughter of another pureblood wolf family in New York he simply and calmly stated that he had no interest in girls. Needless to say that a huge fight broke out.
Eventually Mike decided to leave his parental house and pack in order to live on his own. He applied to Ember Grove University and moved to the small town far away from his father. Regardless of the distance, he always remained in close contact with his younger Brother Finn. Occasionally he would come back to New York to watch his younger brother fight in the ring.
The first year at Ember Grove university was a rather quiet one. Mike just lived his life as regular humans and no one ever found out that he was something more than his peers. However about four weeks ago his secret leaked out and information about him being a werewolf somehow got into the hands of Operation Humanity.
On his way back home from his side job as a bartender, Mike got confronted by Hunters of Operation Humanity. But rather than to fight, he offered to get along peacefully. Ever since that day, Mike is detained by Operation Humanity in their facility near Ember Grove.
》P a c k Omega werewolf, used to be part of the Cooper pack back in New York.
The border between the kingdom of Vulpinia and the dominion of Epha
“Are you sure you want to do this? Your sister will be pissed when she finds out that you once again acted on your own, Rowen.’’
Rowen, the elder brother of Raelin, looked up to the warrior who was speaking to him. Now matter how hard he tried he could not hide his irritation when someone mentioned his sister. Just the fact that their parents made her leader of the clan infuriated Rowen. Maybe even more than Ephans settling into their territory.
“Ofcourse I am sure about what to do. My sister isn’t here. She’s sipping some expensive wine far far away while we are sitting here in the melting snow observing some Ephan village. Don’t fucking mention her when she’s not relevant!”
Rowen Loinsigh paused to regain his composure. He looked around to the other 12 warriors that were with him. They had been observing the village unnoticed for the last week and were ready to make their move.
“ Here’s the plan. Ten men left on the hunting trip two hours ago. They usually get back near dawn. So there should be 3 adult male humans of fighting age in the village. Two guard the entrance and seem to be beast-knights. No survivors. Cian, you lure the guards away to the pass near the cliffs. Once they are there we rain down boulders on them to throw them over the edge. Once the two guards have plummeted to their deaths, we storm the village, kill everyone we encounter and burn it down to the ground. No survivors.”
Cian raised his thumb as a sign of approval, the smirk on his face betrayed that he liked the plan. Picking fights and annoying people was something this Vulpin was particularly good at. Trash talking was his forte.
Darragh, the warrior who had spoken out before shook his head. Burning villages and killing women and children was a clear escalation of a border conflict over hunting grounds. [/color=B22222] “Rowen, I don’t like this plan of yours. Killing women and children, burning villages. Are we savages who kill the defenseless? How can this be right?”
Angered Rowen grabbed his companion by his muzzle and showed his razor sharp teeth. ” Shut up. I’m done with your complaining. This is not about who is right! This is about who is left! How much people have starved in your village this winter because Ephans hunted our game? Four? Five? As long as these fuckers continue to hunt in our lands it will be Vulpin starving to death. There is not enough for both of us. So are you going to help your Vulpin brothers and sisters survive or are you a supporter of humans who procreate faster than bunnies and need to steal other people’s food to survive?”
With the scolding complete all Vulpin warriors took their position. With a wave of his hand Rowen ordered his warriors to execute his plan.
Cian casually walked around the corner of the pass and approached the guards till about 100 feet. Both Beast-knight weren’t really paying much attention to their surroundings and didn’t the Vulpin warrior coming around the corner. Slowly Cian grabbed an arrow from the quiver on his back and drew back his bow. As he released the string, the arrow shot out of the bow and curved through the sky. With a solid twang it landed right between the feet of one of the guards.
”Yo dominion losers, I know that it’s kinda cool for you naked monkeys to dress up like me but nothing beats a real fur pelt. Just pretending to be an awesome Vulpin doesn’t make you furfuraceous lobberworths worthy of standing in my shadow. Even combined you’re not even half the warrior I am. I really wanted to say ‘I did your wife’ but have you looked at your face? It screams virgin for life louder than a thunderstorm on the mountain peaks. Why don’t you wankers suck my cock? That way I’m doing you a favor so that you can die knowing that you’ve made it to 3th base!”
The string of insults certainly hit its mark. Annoyed, the two Beast-Knights grabbed their longswords. [color=6578F0] “That were your last words, vermin!” Yelled one of the guards as he started to close the distance.
”Whoa, big sword you get there buddy. Compensating for something? Catch me if you can, slowpokes!” Jested Cian as he lured the two Beast-Knights away from the village and onto the small ledge overlooking the cliff.
The ledge was only around half a meter wide and the canyon below was deep enough that no one would survive a fall. The melting snow was making the rock rather slippery but Cian had little trouble maintaining his balance due to his tail. The two Beast-Knights however struggled with the difficult terrain and slippery rocks in their heavy armor.
“Great warrior my ass! All you vermin ever do is talk trash and run away. Quit wasting our time and go back to the hole in the ground that your rodent kind crawled out of.” Yelled one of the Beast-Knights.
Before he could send out more insults the first rocks started to rain down. Quickly Cian pressed himself against the rocky wall of a small cave in while the two Beast-Knights frantically raised their shields above their heads to avoid the onslaught of boulders coming from above. It didn’t take long for the first Beast-Knight to lose his balance and fall over the edge.
As the second one tried to make his way back to the more wider plateau where his village was located he lost track of where Cian was. Noticing the lack of focus on him, the Vulpin warrior seized this opportunity and slammed himself in the back of the large warrior of the Ephan dominion. The force of the small Vulpin’s slam was enough to send the large man over the edge. “ Don’t worry about the fall. It’s the landing that kills you” Shouted Cian with a grin as he watched the last Beast-Knight plummet to his death.
With the Beast-Knights out of the way and the other men from the village not around, there was little that stood in the way of Rowen and his gang. With a wave of his hand the 13 Vulpin warriors stormed the small Ephan village and killed everyone who they could find.
As the screams of the dying fade away, the black smoke of the burning village rises. Some would consider it a victory, others an act of barbarism. But everyone agreed that it was most likely the start of something bigger. As repercussions would surely happen when word of the attack would reach the High Sentinel of the Dominion of Epha.
The Palm Beach Bath house
The Vulpin delegation had settled themselves into their temporary home for the upcoming festivities. Cael Drumain Wintertail watched as the servants unloaded all the baggage their diplomatic delegation had brought to the Arkronian capital. For most nations the amount of baggage was considered small, however the Vulpin generally travel light without excess baggage such as ceremonial clothing, extensive gifts and other trinkets. However for an Arkronian coronation ceremony, no diplomatic delegation could afford to look like a bunch of weary travelers.
The prime servant’s attention quickly turned towards Chief Finlay, the leader of the king’s warband. The stoic warrior was once again instructing his warriors on the guard procedure, as he always did. For a moment their gazes crossed and the icy stare of the warchief pierced the mind of Cael. He knew the warchief didn’t agree with his methods but both vulpin had different jobs. Finlay ran the king’s warband and Cael practically ran the kingdom. The prime servant needed to do what needs to be done to keep his people safe.
It didn’t take long before Callumn Dubhghaill Longear approached the prime servant. A bit nervous the young warrior spoke softly. Uhm, sir Drumain. Chief Finlay said you requested an escort for tonight.”
Cael gave his younger companion a friendly smile and noticed that he had picked him right. Barely enough winters seen to be called a man. Just the way he liked them. Callumn would surely do. “Yes, that is right. I’m going into the city tonight. Arkronia is a dangerous place with perils lurking around every corner.”
”Is it really that bad? I thought the Arkronians are obsessed with order and safety?” spoke the young warrior as he tried his best to hide his surprise.
”Normally Arkronia is the safest place on Mycoria. But not during a coronation ceremony. All the vazals have sent delegations and not all the different people of our realm get along. Things could get messy if we’d run into Ephans or Yuravians. Some nations hardly forget and never forgive.”
”I see, not everyone has forgotten the betrayal that our king did. I’d better keep my eyes open.”
Cael just smiled. Much to his own surprise the young Callumn was even more gullible than he thought. Everything the prime servant just had told him was mostly false. No nation in their right mind would pick a fight with representatives of another nation under the ever watchful eyes of the Arkronian nation. Not to mention that Cael had much different plans for the young warrior.
With the ease of someone who frequented the great Arkronian capital on numerous occasions Cael and his young guardian navigated the mostly deserted streets in the evening before the coronation ceremony would start. The ghost of the Grey Death was clearly haunting the great Arkronian capital.
The prime servant guided his companion through the wide lanes and orderly buildings until they reached the large, walled and beautiful complex known as the Palm Beach Bath house. Steam and smoke rises up from various chimneys and the sounds of talking and laughter could be heared from beyond the walls.
”What is this place?” Asked Callumn as he looked in wonder at the marvelous building and the smoking chimneys.
”A bathhouse.”.
”A bathhouse? Arkronians don’t wash themselves in rivers like us?”
It was clear that this was Callumn Dubhghaill first trip to the kingdom of Arkron. Everything was new for the young Vulpin as this was his first introduction to the very different lifestyle of the Arkronian people. For just one moment Cael recognized himself in the young man as he had once many years ago looked in amazement at the wonders of the Arkronian capital.
The prime servant quickly continued his way to the front entrance of the Palm Beach Bathhouse. Since this was a place that people enjoyed in their birthday-suit, the entrance actually consisted of two separate grand doors. One on the left for the male patrons and the one on the right for the female patrons. In Arkronian culture it was considered indelicate to be exposed when being around the other sex.
Cael quickly made his way to the large counter where a host of servants were waiting for customers to approach and state what kind of service they wanted. ”Alan Arkronis. I am a seeker of knowledge and willing to pay the gold price” Spoke Cael in fluent Arkron.
For a moment the human servant gazed at the two Vulpin in front of him. The fox-like people from Vulpinia weren’t known for being rich however there were always exceptions, such as the owner of this bathhouse.
”What is the name of he who seeks out knowledge?” Asked the servant.
” Tell master Breathnach that Cael Drumain of clan Wintertail seeks him out”
With a small nod the servant left his post only to return a few minutes later. He quickly guided the two Vulpin through a hallway that gave access to the many private bathing rooms this bathhouse offered.The Servant opened up the door on the farthest end of the hallway and let the guests in.
Cael and Callumn found themselves in the dressing room. The room was exquisitely decorated with expensive wooden furniture and offered several cavins in the wall where the guests could stow their clothes away. The floor was tiled with an exquisite mosaic depicting a scene of bathing gods.
The prime servant quickly started to undress himself, neatly folding up his robes and stowing them away just before he noticed that it took his younger companion a while before he followed his example. Maybe the young warrior was a bit shy or just flabbergasted about the sheer size and beauty of the city. It didn’t really matter as long as he proved to be good company.
The servant opened the door and Cael stepped through the doorway, closely followed by a rather nervous Callumn. The eyes of the prime servant scanned the place, from the cabinet filled with exclusive drinks to the various couches on the side and the round bath in the middle. Not much had changed since his last visit to this place.
Peatyr Breathnach quickly rose up from the bath and gave Cael a long hug. It was a common greeting between acquainted Vulpin to hug each other but everytime the prime servant received a hug from this man it sent shivers down his spine. Just the sensation of his touch brought back memories Cael preferred to keep stown away.
” Long time no see Cael. How was the journey to the glorious capital of the realm?” Spoke the owner of the bathhouse as if he was greeting an old friend. Yet both men knew that their relationship could not be classified as friendship. They were acquaintances through common grounds. A relationship that was beneficial enough for both to continue to see eye to eye for as long it would last.
”Yeah, it’s been a while since i’ve visited the Arkronians. If I had known that the place was suffering from a depression i had refused to go on the long and boring trip to Arkronia.”
”Who is your new friend?” Asked Peatyr as he checked out the young warrior with a curious gaze.
”Deya.” Which means payment in the Arkronian tongue awnsed Cael coldly.
”It seems that you’ve acquired the eye for the finer things in life my friend. For complete ownership I can share some of the information you desire.” Continued Peatyr in the Arkronian language.
”You don’t have information valuable enough to gain ownership over a member of the kings warband. You can get sixty minutes. In exchange you tell me everything you know about this plague and how it affects the Arkronian court.” Said Cael coldly.
Peatyr just smiled. ”If that is all you wish to know, then we have a deal. There is a lot I can do in sixty minutes.”
Peatyr switched back to the Vulpin language and gave his guest a friendly nod. “Your Arkronian has once again improved, I’m sure you can handle yourself around the grey court. But the rumours you heard are true. There is a sickness rampaging through the country that only affects the Arkronian people. Other races seem to be immune to this sickness. One of the historians who works at the grand library told me that there are ancient accounts from their homeworld describing this sickness. There is no cure and most who get infected with this disease eventually die from it. The historian said that the accounts speak of an era of great decline that took over a hundred years to recover from.”
The prime servant listened closely as the owner of palm beach spoke. So the situation is far worse than the Grey Men are willing to show us. The era of the Arkronians might end sooner than anyone could assume. “How bad is the situation? Does it affect the Arkronian government and military?
”The situation is pretty bad but it gets mostly hidden from the public. All walks of life are affected. People die in the hundreds every day, thousands are sick. The Arkronians stay at home out of fear of the disease. Commerce is declining, many military units are unfit to be deployed and Amon-Mar IV has died of this disease. The crown prince is sick as well. His personal healer is a friend of mine. He told me that the healers are doing as much as they can to extend his life as much as they can. However there seems to be little doubt that Rakon-Da will die as well.”
Cael Drumain was aware of the fact that Rakon-Da was the last in the current royal bloodline. If he dies, the Arkronian clergy would have to select a new bloodline.
“ Hmm, who has the best papers for being the next Arkronian king?” Asked the prime servant.
“Well, I’m pretty sure Ekram-Rhas of house Rhaskozikan will do a push for the throne. He’s a bit controversial within the court for his rather harsh stances but has some powerful friends who might just help him succeed in his attempt.”
Cael closed his eyes to overthink the situation. The prospect of having Ekram-Rhas as the supreme lord of the realm wasn’t something he was looking forward to. That man did not hide his hate for the other races and was considered a warmonger. If he were to lead the Arkronian kingdom there would certainly be chaos and bloodshed. He would drag the nations of Mycoria into another bloody war and that was something the Vulpin weren’t ready for.
”Who are his opposition?”
”Who knows what might come from unexpected parties. Anyway, you should see the new gardens. I’ve had them remodeled in the last few weeks. They are exquisite.” Said Peatyr with a grin as a sign that he felt that he had shared enough with the Vulpin as his end of the bargain.
The prime servant sighed. He had hoped to get some more information out of peatyr but it was clear he wasn’t willing to share more. Cael could not help to wonder what the man ment with ‘unexpected parties’. Was he referring to some other Arkronian noble houses? Or something different. Was that shady Vulpin implying that non-Arkronian parties could seize the Arkronian crown?
Peatyr Breathnach walked to the cabinet and poured two glasses of wine. He let his hand g over a small bottle in the back of the cabinet. For a moment he considered adding some of the small bottles contents to the drink but for now resisted the urge. He had an hour to do as he pleased so no reason rush.
The owner turned his attention to his other guest who was relaxing in the bath. With a friendly smile he offered the glass of wine to the young warrior.
” So, what is your story?”
Callumn has not given the others in the room much attention. Just sitting in the hot water felt great for his worn out body. He had been carrying the king’s standard for the entire journey to the Arkron capital after all. The sudden question awakened him from his slumber.
”uhm.. My story? I’m not sure if that is an interesting one.” murmured Callumn.
{color=B22222]”Not an interesting one? You’re at your age with the king’s warband. You’re not giving yourself enough credit son” Responded Peatyr.
Of course the older Vulpin knew exactly why the young warrior was added to the warband. It was all Cael’s doing because the Vulpin generally lacked the coin to pay the huge sums of money he demanded in those days.
” Getting into the king’s warband wasn’t really my idea. I never really considered it because I'm not that gifted as a warrior to be honest. I’ve never beaten my older brother once in a mock fight” Spoke Callumn softly as he bowed his head.
” The other warriors in the warband don’t see me as a true member. Just as someone who got forced down their throat. They all have earned their stripes in combat. Some fought in the mountains against Ephan incursions and others in the civil war in Cantor. And me? Nothing. I am just the son of a friend from the king. Not wanted at home and not wanted where I am today.”
Callumn believed that even his father viewed him as a failure. The young warrior would never forget the looks of disappointment when other warriors would have him eat dirt in training or when he returned from a hunting trip with little to show for. He was born in the shadow of his brother and would die in it as well.
“And yet you are here, in the lion's den as a member of the king's warband who has sworn an oath to protect his king. You might feel that you stand in the shadows of those who have accomplished more but your day will come when you have to live up to your oath and earn your stripes. Maybe even sooner than you think.”
Callumn gazed in confusion at the older Vulpin at the other side of the bath. He wasn’t sure what he was talking about and why was he calling the safest city of the realm a lion’s den? So many questions and feelings raced through his mind and body that needed to be answered.
”What do you mean? With sooner than you think?”
”Well, young one. This is the great Arkronian capital. A city built on the backs of countless Mycorians who were forced to give their life for the wealth of a people from far beyond the sea. Nobody really likes the Arkronians and the Arkronians certainly don’t particularly like the others. Not to mention that king Aidar is rather controversial. Especially the Ephan’s hate his guts. They have lost many men due to his betrayal during the 3rth revolution. The city is basically filled with people who consider each other enemies. And many would like to see king Aidar bleed.”
The words of the Vulpin shocked the young warrior. Was he implying that his king is in danger? Was someone plotting to take his life? And why was he telling him this and not Cael? Wasn’t the prime servant not the right man to deal with this situation?
Peatyr noticed that his young guest was at a loss of words for now so he continued to talk.
”I can see you have many questions. Well, knowing things and sharing that information with the right people is my job. It is true that king Aidar is in danger. I’ve learned that the Ephans have hired an assassin to take his life. Well, hired might be a bit much. There is this Arkronian noble, a very influential figure who has a certain peculiar taste for entertainment. He likes to kill members of the other races. He finds the act of rather arousing. He’s so influential that he will get away with murdering a vassal king. Unless of course he will be stopped before he can commit the act.”
Peatyr paused to judge the young warrior’s reaction. If it wasn’t for the young man’s fur, the would certainly be pale right now. As it was probably the first time that someone told him that there would be an attempt on the life of his king. The big question was would he feel obligated to act on this information?
”Why are you telling me this?” Murmured the young warrior. ” Shouldn’t you share this information with Cael?”
Peatyr closed his eyes and continued in a bit more dramatic tone. ”Cael turned a position of serving wine and food into a powerful political office in just a matter of a few years. That man is very ambitious but cannot further increase his political power from his current position. He has been stagnant for years now. In order to further advance in power he will need to become the next king of the Vulpin and king Aidar is not the kind of man who goes for an early retirement.”
It was clear to Callumn that Peatyr was convinced that Cael would not do anything to stop this assasination attempt. The more the owner of the bathhouse spoke about it, the more the young warrior felt that it was up to him to prevent this disaster.
”What can I do? I should talk about it with Chief Finlay, right? He can do something about it.” spoke Callumn.
[color=B22222]”No, unfortunately not. His hands are tied and the assasination will take place during the opening banquet. Chief Finlay would not be able to protect the king. The only way to make sure that king Aidar lives is to take the life of his assassin before he can commit his act.It needs to be done quickly and secretly. He is an influential noble. This is your chance to live up to your oath.”
Callumn knew the man was right. This was his chance to prove that he would be more than just the guy that carried the flag, that he could be a great warrior and do what was necessary to protect his king. The young warrior finely felt that he had arrived at the crossroads of destiny. That he was standing before the choice between insignificance and relevance. And more importantly, that it was his choice to make.
“Tell me the details, I will do what needs to be done” Spoke the young warrior
Peatyr Breathnach just smiled. He had found his gullible chum that was willing to do his bidding.
Royal Palace - Grand hall - Start of the coronation festivities
King Aidar Fir Shadowfax was standing before the grand doors of the great hall with his companions. Patiently they awaited to be called in just like the rest of the crowd that had gathered to attend the opening banquet. Many had been invited to this ceremony passing such an invitation down was not something most people could afford.
It didn’t take long before a servant approached the king and asked his group to follow him to their seats. As the old king and his group entered another servant announced their names.
[color=B22222]”King Aidar Fir Shadowfax of Vulpinia, Prime Servant Cael Drumain Wintertail, Sovereign Raelin Loinsigh of clan Palebrush, Warchief Representing the kingdom of Vulpinia.”
Cael, the prime servant turned his head towards the young warrior who was carrying a large crate behind him. It contained 10 bottles of Vulpinian shining moon. A spirited drink made with grains and various psychoactive mushrooms that is distilled only once a month under the full moon. Only one bottle is produced every month and the drink is generally only consumed by the Vulpin shamans during religious ceremonies. They often say that drinking shiningmoon brings you closer to the spirits. Needless to say that Shiningmoon is an extremely rare item to possess.
Callumn, you can give the gifts to that Arkronian servant. They will handle it from here.” Spoke Cael as he wondered why the young warrior volunteered to carry the gifts for the new king.
They hadn’t spoken much since their visit to the bathhouse but the prime servant assumed that it was because of what the owner had done to him. Cael just knew all too well what the tastes of that man are and how it affects someone. The young warrior seemed to handle it very well.
The servant took the Vulpin delegation to their seats. Much to their surprise, the Vulpin were sharing the table with the Dominion of Epha, the Saa’kaaleed and assumebly the remaining seats seemed to be reserved for the delegation of Yuravia.
As the Vulpin delegation took their seats, they could feel the gazes of the high Paladins from the Dominion pierce them as they followed every move the fox-like people made. With as much elegance the elderly king of the Vulpin could muster himself and sat himself down in the chair that was reserved for him before giving a friendly greeting to the Ephan delegation in front of him.
“ Greetings, by the looks of it high Sentinel Augustus himself does not grace us with his presence today. I hope he’s in the best of health.” Inquired the old Vulpin king.
[/color=6578F0] “ As if the traitor king cares so spare me those faked pleasantries! Thanks to you many good men died on the battlefield and we’re still living under the yoke of the Arkronians” Grumphed High Paladin Charles McArthur who was clearly displeased that he had to share a table with those wretched creatures.
50 years ago it was the Vulpin who betrayed the rebellion and switched sides to the crown. They lured the Dominion’s army into an ambush and many beast knights died. Something the dominion has not forgiven nor is able to forget. This event alone has severely strained the relations between both the Kingdom of Vulpinia and the Dominion of Epha. In recent years border clashes have become more common.
”Look who’s talking. For centuries you have invaded lands that do not belong to you. If you lot just stay put in your frozen homes there would not be a problem. Just keep your popsicle brigade where they belong. Otherwise you might lose some more of your precious men.” Jested Realin Loinsigh, sovereign of Clan palebrush who ruled the border region between the kingdom of Vulpinia and had to deal with the Ephans on various occasions.
“Big treats coming from mountain dwelling vermin. But we all know they are as empty as a Vulpin’s promise. Everyone knows that if your puny little ragtag gang of oversized rodents ever step foot on the frozen plains you’d get crushed.” Spoke High Paladin Nylah Harlenton agitated as she joined in the verbal exchange of unpleasantries.
[Color=B22222]”And why should we do that? The northern plains are your land, the mountains are ours. It is not us who’s violating the territorial integrity of another nation. [/çolor] Spoke Realin Loinsigh with a smile. She enjoyed this kind of conversation and she was more or less right. It was that just both nations claimed some of the same territories in the mountain ranges.
Before any of the Ephans could respond, the old Vulpin king spoke up once more. “I must remind you all that we are here to celebrate the coronation of the next Arkronian king. I suggest we enjoy their wine and food in peace for the coming days. We would make poor guests if we’d spend our time here arguing about such trivial matters. It is better to set our differences aside for the coming days then invoke the wrath of an insulted host.”
The Rea-Abi of the Saa’kaaleed turned his head and joined the conversation “To debate like hounds in the desert fighting of the last scrap of meat will certainly agitate our hosts. I must compliment king Aidar on his level of wisdom. It has certainly grown over the past 50 years.”
Cael Drumain, the prime servant of the king, had kept himself mostly absent of the small verbal scuffle on their table. It didn’t serve his interest to get into the petty arguments about a border issue that would not be resolved at this table anyway. The fact was that he was more concerned by the fact that the Arkronians had placed their delegation on the same table as the Ephan’s. They were certainly aware of the fact of the animosity between the two nations. Had the Vulpin fallen out of favor or did this situation serve as a warning. The ceremonies had not yet officially started but it already proved to become an interesting evening.
Cael turned his head towards his king and started to whisper in his ear. “Peatyr is convinced that the crown prince is gravely ill. He might not live very long. By the information i’ve gathered, the kingdom of Arkron might be at the start of a steep decline. We might not be able to rely on the deterrence from the Arkronians when it comes to the Ephan border question. I think it is wise to use these festivities to strengthen our relations with the Rheatian Republic and the kingdom of Cor. Otherwise we might run the risk of standing alone when the current order fails.”
King Aider turned to his servant and looked a bit annoyed at him. Did Cael really think that he had failed to notice? The old Vulpin was still aware enough of the situation in the Arkronian capital. The wind of change is blowing and would soon swep everything in its path away.
”I agree with your judgement. For too long we’ve isolated ourselves and neglected our foreign relationships. You should engage in a conversation with the Avans and Ruline tonight. Maybe we can find some mutual ground for cooperation.”
Royal Palace - Grand hall - Start of the coronation festivities - Confederacy of Skekari
“Look at them, just mingling with the other leaders as if they are the true representatives of the Skekari people.” Spoke Lehm Jeteya, the Cynn of the Confederacy of Skekari towards his fellow countrymen at the table. The animosity between the rivaling Skekari nations was well known. Their rivalry was that bitter that they always had joined opposite sides of rebellions throughout their history.
“Yes, if it wasn’t for the Arkronians we could end the triarchs and unify the country under the tribal system. However there are a lot of rumors regarding plague and such. Perhaps the times are changing and an opportunity might arise in the near future to reshape our people’s destiny.” Spoke on of the Skekari clansmen that accompanied the Cynn to the Arkronian capital.
“Perhaps, who is going to keep the Triarchs safe when the Arkronians no longer are capable of doing that? However our current military power is not sufficient to overthrow the Triarchs. We should seek allies and supporters from beyond our lands ” Spoke the Cynn softly.
“I agree. Maybe the Yuravians are interested in an alliance. We’ve fought on the same side during the last rebellion. If the power of the Arkronians is declining, they might be interested in trying to break free from vassalage again. If we want the Skakari to revert back to the old ways, vassalage to the throne is something we should get rid of too.” Whispered the clansman.
The Cynn knew his companion was right. With Yuravian support it would become possible to end the rule of the triarchs and create a unified Skekari nation to fight alongside the rebels against the throne.
“Send to word to the Yuravian confederacy.”
Greetings Chief Leokadra of the great Yuravian confederation,
Rumors of a great plague and weakening Arkronian government must have reached your court as well. We strongly believe that the times are changing and the power of the Arkronians will decline in the near future. Strong opportunities to break free of unfair bonds might soon present themselves for our glorious nations. Opportunities to shape a future for our nations without servitude to a distant monarch.
In the lights of change I seek your aid in shaping a new future. Not only for the Skekari people but for Mycoria as a whole. A future that contains a unified Skekari nation in a realm that is free of Arkronian rule. The Confederacy of Skakari seeks Yuravian aid in overthrowing the Triarchs, mere puppets of the Arkronians and unifying the people under the tribal leadership.
As a unified Skekari nation, we will support any rebellion against the Arkronian crown.
Let me know if the Yuravians are willing to join in an alliance with the Confederacy of Skekari in order to pursue a realm free of Arkronian rule.
Royal Palace - Grand hall - Start of the coronation festivities - An offer to the king of Avans
All parties have their strange guests of whom might wonder why they were invited in the first place. The opening banquet of the coronation festivities for crown prince Rakon-Da was no different. When the political and business elite of the realm would congregate, shady characters would see opportunities to conduct business and would wiggle their way into the place that would normally be reserved for high society only. Peatyr Bretnach, owner of the Palm Beach Bathhouse was such a man.
The concept of a locked door seemed not to apply to him. The dirty secrets he had on many of the attendants of this evening festivities were more than enough to get himself a nice spot on a table with wealthy Arkronian merchants. However he was not interested in what they had to offer. The wealth of the individual merchants paled in comparison of what the Arkronian crown could muster. The coffers of the crown have been the closed thing to a bottomless pit for many years.
The Vulpin merchant casually mingled with the crowd until he had found himself in the area where the vassals were located. He could see the delegation of Vulpinia exchanging pleasantries with the representatives of the Dominion of Epha. As he looked around his eyes found what he was looking for, King William of Cor.
Casually Peatyr Bretnach approached the monarch of the kingdom of Cor.
“The throne of Arkron, twenty five steps into the air the throne towers above all. A seat most unfitting to someone who’s dying of disease, don’t you agree? Many say the stairs were made so that the monarch can look down on his subjects but I rather see it as a symbol. That the ascension to power is a long and difficult climb. It isn’t hard to tell who are going to try the climb but only one can make it to the top. Lets just hope that it will be someone with mild favorite fews for us non-Arkronians. But I fear the worst.
Royal Palace - Grand hall - Start of the coronation festivities
Rakon-Da was leaning on the balcony of his room close to the grand hall. His grey skin was pale and his eyes looked tired. It was clear that the crown prince wasn’t feeling well. As he stared over the courtyard he could hear the healers being busy inside preparing his medicine for tonight. However his mind wasn’t really busy with the healers. He was just staring at the tree that grows next to the balcony, reminiscing about how he used to climb the tree as a young child.
The melancholy thoughts about days that were gone and would never come back were rudely interrupted by the voice of Drokon-Al, the elderly steward of the kingdom of Arkron.
“My liege, it is almost time. The guests have arrived and are seated. Please take your medicine. It will give you some of your strength back for the coming hour. Just remember to return to your room after the second course for a new shot.”
Drokon-Al simply nodded and walked back in. For a moment he stared at the table where all kinds of pots, leafs and other equipment was placed that was required to make his medicine. The potion the healers were brewing wouldn’t do anything to slow down the disease. No, it would simply give the crown prince a sudden rush of energy to help him through the festivities.
As he drank down the fluid from the bottle he could feel his energy return to him, his legs felt more stable and some of the color on his skin returned.
One of the healers quickly spoke. “We’ve placed the bottles on the table. One bottle for every two hours. What is here should be enough to get you through the dinner. We’ll excuse ourselves now. May the gods hold you in favor for eternity my liege.”
With all the guests seated, the Arkronian government officials took their places followed by the six kardinals. Drokon-Al commanded the room to silence. When the last voice had died the old steward rose from his seat.
“All rise for Rakon-Da, crown prince of Arkron.”
With solid steps the crown prince walked towards his seat at the base of the stairs. He looked around and just wondered how many of his guests were aware of how gravely ill he was. Probably more than anyone would admit. But thanks to the medicine he looked better than he actually felt.
Rather than sitting down the crown prince remained standing, standing as firmly as possible in front of the many people that he would share the banquet with tonight. As for this night, he had prepared a speech.
“Alan Arkronis.”
This is a day of something more than just a national consecration. And I am certain that on this day my fellow Mycorian expect that on my coronation as monarch of Arkron, supreme ruler of the realm, I will address them with a candor and a decision which the present situation of our realm impels.
It is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly. Nor need we shrink from honestly facing the conditions in the Kingdom of Arkron today. Our great nation will endure, as it has endured and will help the realm of Mycoria to endure.
So first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is chaos itself. Nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror caused by disease and the ambition to take advantage of those who are struggling. Only in the darkest of times, the people turn to their darkests of thoughts. Once we turn away from the light, only chaos and violence remains.
In such a spirit on my part and on yours we face common difficulties. They concern more than only the kingdom of Arkron. These difficulties concern the very foundation of the peace and stability that has blessed the realm for the past 50 year.
And yet our distress comes from no failure of substance as we are stricken by a plague. A plague that some might see as a blessing or even a justification to turn away from the light that has been guiding the realm on the path of peace and stability. However be not mistaken, those who threaten the order, the foundation on which the realm as whole thrives will be met with vigor and endurance.
However order, peace and stability does not just come from the threats of violence and retribution. It comes from extending your hands for mutual beneficial cooperation. So tonight we do not dine as overlords and vassals but as fellow Mycorians.
The speech of the crown prince came as a shock to many within the Arkronian government. As it was both openly admitting that the kingdom faced great difficulties and that the times were changing. Rakon-Da seemed to recognize more than many hardliners that these changing times required the kingdom to redefine her relations in order to preserve the order that had brought prosperity to its people. It was clear that this historic speech was both extending their hands in friendship while still remaining committed to defending the order. At least for most Rakon-Da seemed to be less of a hardliner than his father.
With the speech over, Rakon-Da sat down on his chair. For a moment the entirety of the grand hall remained silent, as the words spoken by the future king had to sink in. Then the first Arkronians rose hesitantly from their seats, clapped three times and spoke the traditional Arkronian greeting as a sign that they at least somewhat approved the message. The banquet could finally start.
The Bacchus brew was mildly filled with patrons this night. Many humans had hit the tavern to spend their hard earned coin to drink, sing and dance away the worries of living under Arkronian rule as second class citizens. However that was not the case of Carl Jacobson, the leader of the Forgotten Tribe in the kingdom’s capital.
The Arkronians considered this middle aged man a terrorist but he regarded himself a freedom fighter. Needless to say that he wasn’t shy to use violence as a means to reach his goals. In Carl’s opinion, humans have lived far too long under the Arkronian occupation and it was time to drive these grey men back into the sea too where they came from.
Lisa Wright looked at her leader with a sense of curiosity in her eyes. With her 22 winters this brown haired lady was the youngest companion within the inner circle of Carl Jacobson’s cell. Shy might be the youngest but she was as fierce and dedicated to the cause of the Forgotten Tribe as anyone else in her group.
Do you really think anyone will show up, carl? What have those scalies ever done for us? Except failing rebellions?
Carl just smiled. If the Sa’kaaleed had traveled by land they could not have missed this change of time. Everyone with a bit of perception should have noticed that something was brewing, that the winds of change were about to sweep through Mycoria and that it was up to those who lived in the realm to decide who was going to get swept away.
Just as the leader was about to respond a group of lizardfolk entered the bar. Closely Carl observed them as they went to the bar. Being lizardfolk, the Saa’kaleed naturaly stood out from the human crowd in the tavern. Just as much as Any Arkronian would stand out in this place. That is why the middle aged human closely watched who entered the place after the group of Lizardfolk.
Do you know him, Lisa?” Asked Carl as an unfamiliar face entered the tavern just a minute after the group of Sa’kaaleed entered the Bacchus Brew.
Lisa looked closely, she had a gift when it came to remembering faces and knew pretty much anyone who frequented this establishment or lived in the neighborhood.
Nope, never seen him before. You think he’s a snake?”
Could be, we should be careful. Go take care of it. No place for snakes in Bacchus Brew”
Lisa gave a short nod and left the table. She walked straight up to the bar and ordered two large pints of ale and walked to the man who sat alone at a table too far away from the group of lizardfolk.
From the corners of his eyes Carl noticed how one of the Lizardfolk left the group and made his way to the Alcove he was sitting in. So the Sa’kaaleed were interested in talking. Hopefully the Lizardmen were interested in supplying him with weapons.
He turned his head toward the hooded figure and raised his pint. “It’s uncommon to see any Lizardfolk in this part of town. I would almost think that you’ve got my invitation.”
Drokon-Al stared down the giant window of the cabinet meeting hall. The governmental meeting room offered an excellent view of the palace’s courtyard and the grand entrance gate. From his place up high he could see the first delegations enter the palace compound. From the small fox-like creatures of the Vulpin to the large Ruline from the Raethian Republic. The other delegations would soon arrive for the coronation ceremony too.
With the evening falling the old steward could not help to wonder if the kingdom of Arkron was seeing her last ray of lights as well. The grey death was spreading across her people and the once unchallenged superpower was heading towards her biggest crisis in history. Many of the Arkronian civilians lived in fear of the grey death while many of the Akronian leadership lived in fear of losing power. If Drokon-Al knew one thing, it was that fear offered bad council.
The old Arkronian finally turned around and walked towards his seat at the conference table. All ministers had gathered once again to discuss the most prominent matters during the evening session. He looked around the table and knew that all men gathered were thinking the same, that the crown prince is too sick to become the next king and yet that he is the last member of his bloodline.
Usually the Arkronian nobles would have fought over the topic of which house would deliver the queen for the wedding ceremony but they all knew that the crown prince would not be able to have physical contact with a member of the other sex. The risk of spreading the sickness was simply too great. No, all these men at the table were thinking of which house should become the next royal bloodline.
“Alan Arkronis”
The ministers responded with the same greeting. A formality that opened all conversations in Arkronian culture. The second formality was the establishment of the agenda for the meeting. Lots of topics were going to be discussed this night as the management of the kingdom of Arkron was a complicated and never ending task.
“Ministers of the great Arkronian nation. The first topic of this meeting is the end of the civil war in the Hegemony of Canthor. I will give the word to our minister of foreign affairs Horish-Namar” spoke the steward.
“Ministers of the great Akronian nation. The hegemon has conquered the last republican stronghold, the city of Irrida and declared the final victory. It is safe to assume that the hegemon has solid control over the territory of the hegemony of Canthor. The Arkonian nation has invested significant resources in securing the victory of the Hegemon faction and we should ensure that those investments are repaid in full.”
“It took them 50 years. Even after extensive military reforms with our guidance. If the civil war in Canthor shows us one thing, then it is that humans make poor soldiers.” Proclaimed Ekram-Rhas.
Ohrahm-Braz, minister of intelligence took the word. “It is unwise to underestimate any race, lord Ekram-Rhas. Informers have reported that the Hegemon’s forces have made significant improvements to the capabilities and organisation over the years. With our help of course. It will be wise to remind the Hegemon that our friendship and involvement made sure that he can now rule over all of Canthor. ”
“Hmmpf. Since when is the great Ohrahm-Braz such a fan of insignificant creatures created by the gods of chaos?” Responded the minister of the army annoyed.
“I am merely stating that we live in a hostile world and that we should not underestimate our vassals. Under our great leadership they can prosper and we should always make sure that out relations remain mutually beneficial, so that all they learn from us won’t be used against our own nation.”
Drokon-Al looked at both the minister of the army and minister of intelligence as they got into a rather pointless argument about the value of humans. The viewpoints of Ekram-Rhas greatly concerned the steward, he was too radical for his taste. A warmonger that longed for the glory his father earned during the 3th rebellion but could never gain due to the mostly peaceful times. At least the minister of the army did not really get along with Ohrahm-Braz well. It would be bad if those two men would unite their forces to present a unified radical front.
After forcing both arguming men to silence Drokon-Al took the word again. “There are still some elements we need to discuss concerning the situation in Canthor. First, there is an invitation to celebrate their victory. We will need to send a proper diplomatic mission. I propose that minister Horish-Namar of foreign relations and minister Ragid-Can of trade will attend the Canthorian celebrations and see to it that their end of the deals we’ve made.”
Both ministers bowed their heads in agreement.
The steward continued with the next topic regarding the civil war. “The hegemon has requested from all nations that any rogue elements be apprehended. Minister of intelligence, do we know where such rogue elements are currently located?”
“Yes, steward. We are keeping tabs on several of the republican leaders. Many have fled Canthor and are currently hiding in neighboring nations. I would like to make a suggestion on how to handle the situation. In my modest opinion we should seek them out and offer them refuge. We never know when the need arises to create a civil war in Canthor. Just see it as a little insurance policy.”
“Are you sure about that? If republican loyalists are spotted within our territory that will put a strain on our relationship with the Hegemony.” Responded the Horish-Namar.
“I am well aware of that minister. That is why we should hide them in various other countries. Maybe send them on a nice holiday to the Skekari beaches. I’ve heard they have beautiful beaches and a pleasant climate. Of course, we would not all send them to the same spot. Spread our investments wisely so that we can always insert some capable rogue agents when the need arises.”
The ministers nodded in agreement.
“Alright, then we will move on to the next topic of our meeting. The impact of the grey death on our nation.” Spoke the old steward as he commanded the room. He knew this was going to be a difficult topic. “We’ll start off with a status report from our armed forces. Minister Ekram-Rhas, you have the word.”
The minister of the army looked at the documents before him before he spoke. “First corps reports 10 deaths, and 122 sick. All assumed to have the grey death. All sick soldiers have been put in isolation and their regiments are put in isolation too. Second corps reports 18 deaths and 185 sick. Third corps reports 9 deaths and 98 sick.” After a long summary the Ekram-Rhas finally came to a conclusion. “The current death toll in the army is 289 and over 3000 soldiers and officers are reported sick. 57 regiments have been affected by the grey death placed in quarantine. The current policy is that if no new cases of grey death pop up for two weeks in a regiment will be available again for active service.”
Next was the minister of the navy Ridhouan-Tag. “ Seven more warships have been put to harbor due to cases of grey death among their crews. All affected crews have been put into isolation. So far 133 sailors and officers have died and over 900 are sick. 27 ships are currently unable to set sail due to crews being in isolation or short staffed.”
After the minister of the navy finished his report Ikra-sha, the minister of economic affairs took the word. “Commercial activities across the entire kingdom are in decline. Reports state that many citizens are decreasing their spending on everything except life’s necessities. However more alarming is the rapid increase in food prices. Wealthy merchants are buying up large quantities of grain and even go as far as buying future harvests. All in fear that the grey death will result in food shortages. For the small artisans, soldiers and other low to medium income families getting the daily required amount of food becomes an increasingly more difficult undertaking.”
“Yes, I am well aware of that development” Responded Bakhal-Amar, minister of the interior. “Reports from our police forces state an increase in feelings of discontent among the human underclass. There has been a slight increase in crime. However one event is concerning. Two days ago a grain caravan was assaulted by a band of human thiefs. Our officers have tracked the grain and believe it was distributed freely by the Forbidden tribe among the human underclass in the capital. It is safe to assume that the forbidden tribe will exploit this situation to strengthen their influence.”
“Of course they will! That is what you get when you allow such lowly creatures within our society.” Replied Ekram-Rhas. “Humans can’t be trusted”
“That is enough! We are aware of your point of view minister. However, we the Arkronian people were created by the gods to bring guidance to the other races. It is our divine duty to lead them to the path of light.” Spoke Cardinal Orign-Eltar, minister of religious affairs with a raised voice. “I suggest that you do not stray away from the path that Ak’ron, the god of order has given us! Otherwise you might risk falling out of favor.”
It was a clear warning from the highest religious leader in the kingdom. With the end of the royal bloodline on the horizon, falling out of favor with the gods was not something an ambitious man like Ekram-Rhas could afford. The minister of the army quickly toned down on his remarks regarding the other races for the remainder of the meeting.
Suddenly Ohrahm-Braz, minister of intelligence rose from his seat. “You will have to excuse me, ministers. I’ll have some urgent business to take care off.” And before any of the others were able to protest his sudden departure, the small Arkronian had left the conference room.
The rest of the evening the other ministers discussed the final topic of the meeting, the coronation ceremony of crown prince Rakon-Da. The festivities would open with an official banquet on the first evening. It would provide a setting to socialize with the various world leaders and would of course be an opportunity to impress the world with the excellent cuisine of the Royal Palace.
On the second day in the late morning the official coronation ceremony would take place followed by the pledge of fealty of the vassals to the new king. This was the moment where the delegations would also hand over the many gifts they had brought with them for the new king. This event would be followed by a military parade. The second day would end with another banquet, feast and fireworks.
Arkronia - The palm beach bath house
Personal hygiene is important within the Arkronian culture. Not only was bathing considered a social activity, it was also closely tied in with the Arkronian view on medicine and health care. Arkronian healers share the idea that washing yourself and relaxing can cure many ailments. Often bathing activities were complimented with various forms of massages that include medicinal oils. Needless to say that in a time of plague, bathing is seeing a surge in popularity.
Many large villa’s have their own private baths while the large cities also host a variety of public bath houses. Some of those are small and sober places that cater towards the lower classes while others are large luxurious buildings which offer a wide variety of bathing area’s. In general Arkronian bath houses consisted of a large hot bath, a smaller cold bath and an area where the bathers could get their various massages and skin treatments. Another important part of the typical Arkronian bathhouse was the courtyard. Every bath house offered a garden closed off by a high wall from viewers where the visitors could walk and relax on various types of benches.
The Arkronian bath house is strictly separated for the different sexes. Bathing is an activity that is done in nudity and being nude in the proximity of members of the other sex you’re not acquainted too is considered indecent and obscene behavior in the Arkronian society. The Arkronian state even went as far as to outlaw such indecent behavior in their extensive moral laws.
The Palm Beach Bath house is the most luxurious of bathhouses within the capital. All the others pale in comparison when it comes to the sheer beauty and size of this Bath House. Her exquisite mosaic floors and walls are unparalleled throughout the country. And yet that is not what the Palm Beach is famous for. Unlike any other, Palm Beach bath house offers more than just the regular bathing facilities. This specific place has raised the bar by integrating various other elements such as a steam bath and hot saunas.
However what truly makes Palm Beach remarkable was the fact that they offered private baths. These rooms could be booked by groups or individuals who wanted a more private experience. Often merchants would invite their business partners to discuss deals away from the ever listening ears of their competitors or the social elite would meet up to gossip. However there was also a dark side to these private baths. As the services that could be acquired in these private rooms went a little bit further than your average relaxing massage.
In Palm Beach the Arkronian elite could indulge in the pleasures that are frowned upon by society and prohibited by law. Drawn by the pretence of privacy, many of the most virtuous Arkronians would give in to their darkest of vices once the prying eyes of the public could not see them. However the truth about Palm Beach Bath house was that regardless of the amount of privacy the place offered, Peatyr Breathnach, the owner would always know what his clientele was doing. Some considered the Vulpin just an exploiter of brothels while others understood the value of the information he gathered.
In a society built around orderly and virtuous behavior, knowing the darkest secrets of the social elite made you a powerful man. Just the idea that your sinful behavior could become public gossip scared many of the Arkronians into doing his bidding. The Vulpin lured his victims in with the pleasures of their wildest dreams and then playfully reminded them that he knew what they had done. Knowledge is power and if you know the right kind of information you practically own people. Especially in a society where a public image of order and virtuous behavior is extremely important.
As usual Peatyr spend his evening in what he called his office. The only private bath room without secret spots to peek through. The room was relatively large and everything was centered around the round bath in the middle. Against the walls of the room were several sofa’s and tables where he and his guests could relax. Near the entrance door was a large wooden cabinet which holded a variety of alcoholic beverages from across the continent. The ceiling consisted of a large glass cupola to let the daylight in. However since the sun had set, the cupola provided an excellent view of the night sky.
The owner found himself gazing at the stars with a glass of fine Skekari wine in his hand. He recently had acquired some very interesting information about the selection procedure and criteria for if the crown prince would succumb to his disease and the cardinals would have to choose a new royal bloodline. Combine that with the fact that half of the cardinals are regular customers of Peatyr’s offered services and the Vulpin was in an excellent position to influence the decision making. However, he still had to find the right buyer for it.
His string of thoughts was suddenly interrupted by 3 short knocks on the door.
“Enter” commanded the Vulpin as he turned around, only to watch one of his human servants coming through the door.
“There is a man who would like to speak with you mister Breathnach. He is Arkronian sir.”
The Vulpin stared intrigued at his servant. It was unlikely for any of his important Arkronian clients to disturb him at this hour. “Does this Arkronian have a name?”
“He did not tell his name. He merely stated that he was looking for a merchant of knowledge and was willing to pay the gold price.” Responded the servant.
“Isn’t that interesting. A mystery guest that seeks me out. Well, make sure he’s undressed and pour the man a drink of his liking.”
“Yes, mister Breathnach” said the servant as he closed the door behind him.
Peatyr folded his arms on the side of the bath, resting his head on it. He wagged his tail slowly through the warm water creating circles through the movement. The Vulpin could not help to wonder who was looking for a business transaction this hour. His eyes tracked the movement of the door as it opened again as the servant let the guest in.
Through the door stepped a rather unremarkable Arkronian male. He was rather small for an Arkronian and did not possess the athletic physique that many Arkronians strive for. It was a rather disappointing sight to a connoisseur of the male body. Especially when you factor in the fact that the guest was lacking some distinctive male attributes. However Peatyr instantly knew who his guest was and that he could not treat him lightly.
“color=008000]“So, the stories I heard about you are true. You aren’t really king material. Offspring would be rather difficult to produce with your….condition, Ohrahm-Braz.” [/color] Peatyr paused a bit to judge his guest’s reaction but soon continued. “I’m afraid that even the healing properties of my bath house can’t cure your ailment.” Joked the Vulpin.
Ohrahm-Braz, the Arkronian minister of intelligence walked to the cabinet next to the door and went through the fine selection of wines. Purposely he opened up the most expensive bottle and calmly poured himself a glass. The jab about his lacking masculinity did not seem to get to him at all. Ohrahm-Braz seemed to be extremely confident with his own body.
Calmly he walked up to the Vulpin who was still resting his head on the side of the bath. Ohrahm-Braz only stopped inches before the owner and looked down upon Peatyr Breathnach before beginning to speak. “Of course those stories are true. I told everyone about my birth condition, everyone who wanted to listen and those who refused, well I shoved it in their face, visually. I paraded naked through the royal palace. Symbodically waving my piece in front of the king. You see Peatyr, everybody thinks that being born with a disfigured body is some sort of weakness. Something the likes of you can exploit. The truth is that you can’t change what you are. You can only try to hide it or embrace it. Those are the only options to choose from. I don’t need to tell you which choice I made.”
Peatyr looked up and stared in what seemed to be nothingness. He could barely lift his head high enough to look at the minister’s eyes while his jaw dropped as he listened to the words Ohrahm-Braz sproke. Instinctively the Vulpin moved backward just to regain eye contact with the Arkronian that towered above him. He could not help to notice that the minister possessed a limitless amount of confidence. Ohrahm-Braz’s presence was dominating like the pitch black clouds before a severe thunderstorm.
As Peatyr made way the Arkronian minister stepped into the bath and seated himself on the spot where the Vulpin sat just moments ago. For a moment he closed his eyes and enjoyed the hot water on his grey skin. Suddenly Ohrahm-Braz opened his eyes and looked Peatyr deeply in his eyes. “You are going to arrange the early passage to the afterlife of someone for me.”
With disbelief, the Vulpin looked at the minister. This was not the kind of request people would generally ask of him. Assasination wasn’t really Peatyr’s trade. After a moment the owner of the Palm Beach Bath house regained his composure and was capable of responding. “That sort of business is not really my area of expertise. I believe you have perfectly capable people in your employ….”
Before he could finish his sentence Ohram-Braz suddenly lunged forward and grabbed Peatyr by the head and pushed the unsuspecting Vulpin underwater. Desperately he tried to fight the powerful grip of an Arkronian but a small Vulpin was no match. The hot water filled his lungs and blood pounded behind his eyes as Peatyr desperately fought for survival.
Suddenly he was dragged through the water and thrown on the side of the bath. Disoriented Peatyr rolled on his back and couched heavily to get the water out of his lungs. For a moment, he was unaware of what had just happened, the Vulpin layed on the floor gasping for air.
As he regained some of his composure Peatyr stared at the Arkronian who towered above him. “I….I don’t fear death” Sputtered the Vulpin.
Ohrahm-Braz sat down upon his victim and grabbed him by the throat. Slowly he moved his head and whispered in Peatyr’s ear. “I know. You’re a devil and the only thing a devil fears is getting kicked back to hell.”
“You don’t know what my hell is.” protested the owner of the bath house.
“On the contrary. It is so obvious that even an Ascarian can figure it out after only a century of thinking about it. You’re a fucking Vulpin. Born in some muddy shithole spending your summers hunting rabbits and your winters hungry. You were born an insignificant nobody with nothing and look at you now. The owner of the largest bath house of the kingdom. The merchant of information. More coins in your pocket than you can spend in a lifetime and I can take it all away whenever I want. Don’t you ever forget who is keeping the authorities off your back. The minister of the Interior would love to shut your little pleasure palace down. Never forget who’s little pet you are!”
Peatyr knew the minister was right. His Establishment violated more Arkronian laws then could be written down in one book. The sad truth was that the only reason the Palm beach bath house could remain in business was as long as Peatyr Breathnach remained of value to the likes of Ohrahm-Braz.
“Who needs to die?”
“The crown prince, During the opening banquet.”
Arkronia - Bacchus Brew Tavern.
The light of torches casted shadows through the tavern hall of Bacchus Brew, hiding some of the patrons in the shadows while others basked in the light. The tavern got his name from an old god that was once worshipped by the humans who lived in this part of Mycoria. However those practices and beliefs were mostly left behind when the Arkronians arrived. There is however a small group of humans that still cling to these ancient ways. A secret society whose name is only whispered when no Arkronian ears are around to hear it. The forbidden tribe.
“We did good.” Proclaimed a man to his companions when he raised his pull of ale.
“For humanity!” Proclaimed the others.
Carl Jacobson, a large build human with short black hair, looked at the three others who were with him in Bacchus Brew. They were the core members of The forbidden tribe in the capital of the kingdom of Arkron and some would consider them a more radical element. Just a few days ago they had robbed a grain transport and distributed the food for free among the human underclass of the city.
The humans might not get sick from the plague but they were suffering many of the negative backlashes from it. Rising food prices, prejudice from the Arkronian population who rumoured that the grey death was of human origin and much more.
“We need to grow bigger. We can’t help our brothers and sisters with just the four of us.” Continued Carl.
“We don’t have enough weapons. Getting them on the black market is extremely difficult with Arkronian police all over the place.”
Carl turned towards the only female companion in his small group. He valued the bright youngster who was always quick to give her opinion and never afraid of asking the difficult questions. The black haired human often viewed her as the daughter he never had.
“I’m aware of that Lisa. However with the coronation ceremony drawing in close, the city will be filled with delegations from all over Mycoria. Not every vassal likes the throne. With this plague running rampant among the Arkronians I am sure there will be parties interested in throwing some more fuel on the fire”
Lisa took a large gulp from her pull and looked the leader of her group in the eyes. She knew all too well the the Arkronians weren’t loved by everyone but would there be any country stupid enough to start mingling in their internal affairs? If the Arkronians would find out there could be dire consequences for the parties involved.
“Who are you going to ask for aid?” Asked Lisa.
“I am going to dispatch messengers to the Yuravians, The Dominion of Epha and the Saa’Kaleed Abiat. One of our friends works as a gardner in the Royal palace and he will deliver the invitations to meet us here.”
“How do you know they won’t betray us?” Asked Lisa.
With the plague running rampant through the Arkronian people their power is in decline. We believe that this situation offers an opportunity for all other races to regain their freedom from these grey oppressors.
We, the humans of Arkronia seek out the help of all who hate these grey invaders and are looking for opportunities to work together for our common goal.
Meet us at the Bacchus Brew tavern so that we can discuss how to beat our common enemy.
The forgotten tribe.
Arkronia - Royal palace - Start of the festivities
It was his big day and yet it didn’t feel like it. In fact Rakon-Da felt terrible. Not only because he was sick but also because his coronation would be rather pointless. The healers hadn’t much hope about him recovering from the grey death and even if he did, he would be king in nothing except name. A figurehead, forced to ascend a throne by the law he could never do justice. Those who survived this plague were often crippled psychically and mentally for life.
As the many palace servants raced around him to do the final preparations for the opening banquet Rakon-Da just stared at the throne as it loomed over him. At best his reign would be short, at worst his reign would be the one that would go down in the history books as the most pointless that ever existed. The crown prince could not help but wonder why the gods have given him such a cruel fate.
”Your Highness, please remain in your quarters until the evening starts. You will need your strength for when the grand hall is filled with the rulers and nobility from all across our realm.” Spoke Drokon-Al, the steward of Arkron.
Rakon-Da turned his head and looked at the one man who was leading their glorious nation in the absence of a king. The crown prince could not help but to give the old man a faint smile. Not because he valued his concern or compassion but for the absurd fate that the gods had chosen for the great Arkronian nation. His father had passed away, Rakon-Da himself was too sick and the steward was in his final days before retirement. Who would be left by the end of this year to lead their nation through this crisis?
“I am alright. The healers are preparing an extract of several plants to help me get through the evening. It will ease my pain and give me energy. Just live through the coming days and the great kingdom of Arkron can pretend to have a king.” Said the crown prince with sadness in his voice.
”That is what our laws command us to do. The next one in line must ascend the throne, regardless of the question if he is fit to rule.” Spoke the Stewart.
”I wonder if those laws are any good when they put a sick man on a throne when the nation is standing before it’s greatest crisis.”
”Still i’d rather have a sick man as the leader of our glorious nation than Ekram-Rhas. responded Drokon-Al.
”Yes, that man will run the kingdom quicker into the ground than any plague can do. You better make sure that he will never ascend the throne. Only bloodshed and chaos can come from his reign. I’ll be off to my chambers now. I’ll heed your advice and take some rest before the banquet will start.”
The old Arkronian steward looked as the crown prince left the grand hall. He knew Rakon-Da’s rule won’t be long. After he passes away, a new royal bloodline would be chosen and there weren’t many Arkronian noble families who he deemed capable and desirable for such a task. Drokon-Al could only hope that the gods would not choose house Rhaskozikan for the new royal bloodline.
As the many palace servants cleared the hall after completing the final preparations Drokon-Al looked around. In front of the stairs to the throne was the large table of the crown prince. Two seats were placed at it with appropriate distance to each other as a measure to prevent spreading the grey death further. At the other side of the crown prince’s table were the seats for the delegation of the Aegire Oligarchy. A nation the crown wishes to strengthen her relationship with.
To the sides of the crown prince's table where the tables of the ministers and the Cardinals. Arguably the most powerful men in the kingdom of Arkron. Close to the tables of the Arkronian leadership the delegations of the vassals were seated. Some were held in high regard while others were distrusted. However all were members of the realm and subjects of the crown. Their attendance was demanded and they must be placed according to their statue within the grand hall.
The grand hall was filled with neatly decorated tables. Endless rows of expensive porcelain plates, silverware and crystal wine glasses filled the tables. Servants took their places and the musicians did the final tuning of their instruments. With all set in place, the banque could be opened as planned.
At the sign of the master ceremony the musicians started to play. The steward, Arkronian ministers and cardinals all took their seats before the guards opened the elegantly decorated doors that gave entrance to the grand hall. First the Arkronian aristocracy would enter. Every high born that entered through the door was announced by name and taken to their seats by a servant.
The entry was as methodically planned as anything in the Arkronian nation. First the Aristocracy would be seated, followed by the delegations of the vassal states. Next up would be the lower aristocracy, military leaders and members of the clergy. The last guest to enter would be the few low born who were invited. Many of the most successful merchants were of humble birth but had acquired vast amounts of wealth and influence in the Arkronian state. When all guests were finely seated, the arrival of the crown prince would be announced.
“Why do I have to carry the king's banner, it’s really heavy?” complained a Vulpin warrior. He had been carrying the king’s banner ever since leaving the Vulpin capital five hours ago. His small statue, large ears and boyish face betrayed that this warrior from clan Longear had barely seen enough winters to be called a man and yet, he was one of the warriors escorting the old Vulpin king to Arkronia.
“Quit yer yappin and keep the banner straight, Callumn! It’s the king’s banner, treat it with the respect it deserves!” Scolded one of the older warriors. The man seemed particularly displeased with the fact that there was such a young and unaccomplished warrior among the king’s own warband.
Quickly Callumn straightened his back, tightened his grip on the heavy wooden pole and raised the banner once more. The young warrior knew that his companion was right. Even though he could feel his soar arms struggling with the weight he was carrying but knew he could not let his king down. To carry the banner of the nine tails, the symbol of the unity of the Vulpin clans was a position of great honor the older warriors had told him. So he had to accomplish this task no matter how much his arms would hurt.
And yet, there was this trace of doubt in his mind. At times he struggled with the weight it was like he could feel the smirks of his companions as knives that stabbed his back. As if some were enjoying his struggles. Maybe they were just jealous that this task of great honor was bestowed upon him. Or was it just a chore that was forced upon him because the other warriors believed he had no right to be in the king’s warband?
Warriors in the king’s own warband were always selected because of their battlefield prowess. Even though the times were mostly peaceful, many had distinguished themselves fighting Ephan’s in the mountains while or had found their way to the battlefields of the civil war in Canthor. Others had shown their prowess during the yearly Vulpin games. Callumn Dubhgail Longear had none of that. He was only part of the king’s own warband because his father was the sovereign of Clan Longear and had a close relationship with king Aidar.
The young Vulpin knew that he had to work hard in order to receive the respect of his fellow warriors. No matter what he had to endure the young Vulpin warrior had sworn an oath to serve and protect the King of the 9 clans. If that meant to carry his banner all the way to Arkronia through the muddy roads Callumn would do it.
With renewed vigor the young Vulpin warrior marched on through the hills and fields of Vulpinia and into the forests of Akron. Everyday Callumn carried the banner with pride, eager to prove that he could do it and earn the respect he longed for.
If the Vulpin were known for one other thing except their legendary betrayal it was their ability to walk. The anthropomorphic foxes just looked like they could march forever at a quick pace. Needless to say that walking has been their prefered method of transportation. However for their old king Aidar, walking all the way from the Vulpin capital to Arkronia was just too much for someone who had nearly seen 80 winters.
The king of the Vulpin sat comfortably in his moose drawn carriage. The high quality of construction and intricate carvings revealed that the carriage was not of Vulpin origine. The fact was that the carriage of the king was a gift from the Arkronian overlords for their service during the 3th rebellion. For some it was a symbol of victory, for others a reminder of the Vulpin’s shifty nature. For king Aidar the carriage meant another agonizing trip to a far off destination that he should not visit in his old age.
However a coronation ceremony for the next Akronian king was not something that could be handled by some noble or servant. The Arkronians had expectations to be met and as long as they were the dominant power in Mycoria, you’d better be on their good side.
King Aidar Fir Shadowfax stared out of the window of his carriage. He hated traveling by carriage as every bump in the road would send an agonizing pain through his back. For a moment he longed for the days that he was younger, fitter and could have walked the entire route to Akronia with the rest of his entourage. But deep down inside the old king knew that such thoughts were the signs that his reign was overdue.
The king turned his head towards his two guests in the carriage and dropped the question he had been dropping way too many times already. “Cael, how much days before we arrive at the capital of Arkron?”
The prime servant was slightly annoyed and yet gave his king a friendly smile. When you spend weeks in a carriage’s confined space together the topics you can talk about run dry. “The same amount of days I told you the last time…. Minus three hours. We should arrive at Akronia’s grand gate late noon tomorrow. ”
“But I’ll have to excuse myself now. I need to stretch my legs a bit before I get as stiff as the old man” Spoke the prime servant as he opened the door of the carriage and gracefully jumped down in a way that was totally unnecessary and yet only someone who still possessed a strong and youthful body could do as a jest towards his old king.
Cael looked around and quickly founded the person he wanted to talk to. The 5 ft 8 hulking giant of a Vulpin could hardly be missed, as long as he was in a crowd of Vulpin. The various patches of white fur on his arms and across his cheek highlighted the many battle scars this man had suffered throughout his years and were a testimony of his prowess as a warrior.
The king’s prime servant quickly approached the man and sarcastically spoke “Isn’t it a little bit cruel? To let that young man carry the banner for nearly two weeks? Chief Finlay ”
“What a pleasant moment for the king behind the throne to grace me with his presence. How is the old king?” Nodded the chief of the king’s warband.
“Still breathing.”
“So we’re stuck with your rule a little longer....” Remarked Finlay sarcastically.
“But you’re not here to do small talk Cael. Get to business because I have better then to listen to your attempts at scheming.”
Prime servant Cael Drumain gave the highest ranking warrior in the kingdom a friendly smile and scratched the back of head and spoke. “Don’t be so negative. Just see me as supporting our king in the best way I can.“
Cael paused a bit and pointed his finger at the young warrior who was carrying the king’s banner since the start of the journey. “I need to borrow him for the first night we arrive in Arkronia,”
Finlay quickly turned his head and gave the prima servant of the king an inquisitive stare. If he wanted to borrow Callumn then Cael must have had some hand in him joining the king’s warband. “What’s yer business with Callumn?”
“Nothing too special really. I just want to visit an old acquaintance in his bathhouse in Arkronia and need an escort. The streets of Arkronia can be dangerous.”
The request shocked Finlay. He knew that the streets of Arkronia were the safest in the realm. An escort would not be needed. As the war chief had been on multiple occasions in the Arkronian capital with his king. Based on the request, Finlay was fully aware about whom Cael was talking. “No, I will not cooperate in this request of yours. Even though he has no business in being in the warband, he still is my responsibility!”
“It would be such a shame if the old king learns that his war chief refused to provide adequate protection for his entourage, don’t you think?” Whispered Cael in the ear of the warrior.
Finlay growled and clutched his spear even stronger. Angered he stared in the eyes of one of the most influential men in the Vulpin kingdom. Part of him wanted to rip Cael’s head clean off because he knew what the servant was planning and yet he was in no position to refuse his request. As he finally calmed down Finlay spoke. “And then you’re calling me the cruel one.”
By the end of noon the Vulpin delegation finally reached the grand gate of Akronia. Her large white walls, enormous towers and iron gates dwarfed anything the Vulpin had ever constructed. Those who were visiting the Arkronian capital for the first time stared in awe at the magnificent creations the overlords had constructed over time. In the face of these creations of sheer beauty and size the Vulpin looked like insignificant forest critters.
“Alan Arkronis” Spoke Finlay as he approached one of the Arkronian guards. The chief of the warband was considered large by Vulpin standards but the Arkronians towered above him. “I present King Aidar Fir Shadowfax of the kingdom of Vulpina and his entourage.”
The Arkronian guard looked down at the small fox like creatures and spoke the proper greeting. “Alan Arkronis”. It wasn’t hard to miss that the grey man didn’t hold these visitors in very high regard. However they were still representatives of one of the vassals and should be treated accordingly.
He called all members of the delegation to form up in front of him so that he could do a headcount, record every member of the delegation and explain the laws of the city to the Vulpin delegation.
“Welcome to Akronia, capital of the realm. Residence of the King of the Arkronian nation and supreme overlord of the realm. Before entering the city I must first inform you of the most common laws. The carrying of weapons within the city walls that are longer than 16 inches is prohibited. Violating this law will result in disarmament and arrest by Arkronian police. All weapons that are prohibited must be left at the gate. These will be administered and stored upon leaving the city walls, these belongings can be repatriated by request in compliance with Akronian weapon laws as stated in the book of weapon laws, chapter 8, section 17, appendix A.”
The guard paused a bit before he continued. “The drawing and usage of weapons is considered a violation of the law until proven otherwise in front of an Arkronian court. Weapons should remain sheeted in public at all times. Being caught with unsheeted weapons by Arkronian police will result in disarmament and imprisonment. In accordance with the laws as written down in the book of weapon laws, chapter 12, section 4. The carrying of weapons within the walls of the royal palace is only allowed in the guest quarters assigned to the diplomatic mission.”
The guard continued to state a long list of laws. With an ever increasing amazement Callumn the young warrior listened to the guard as he told about laws that controlled on what side of the street you are allowed to walk, the prohibition of urinating in public, what parts of the body must remain covered by clothing, how to properly behave and many more topics. If it existed, the Arkronians would have a law for it.
Other members of the delegation who had traveled to Akronia before had been through this chore already and the old king struggled to remain awake during this tedious endeavour. King Aidar had been in the Arkron capital on various occasions and knew the laws all too well. Yet every time he had been at the grand gate he had to go through this boring law speech.
However after almost 20 minutes of law reciting and weapons collecting the old king and his entourage were picked up by an Arkronian host and made their way onto the marble lane. This famous lane is two miles long and runs from the grand gate of Arkronia straight to the royal palace. When foreign delegations arrive the sidewalks generally fill up with curious Arkronians to watch the parade of strange people making their way to the royal palace. But not today, the lane seemed to be mostly deserted with only some scattered people who came to look at the delegations entering the city
The old Vulpin king looked out of the window and the scene was nothing like he remembered from last time he visited an Arkronian coronation. The lane was still as methodically cleaned and taken care of but unlike 30 years ago the sidewalks remained mostly empty. Even those few Arkronians who came to look at all those strange creatures from foreign lands seemed to keep a distance from each other. As if they had become afraid of their own kind.
“Hmm, they did put out all the flags, garlands, flowers and other decorations but forgot to invite their people” Remarked Railin Loinsigh, the female sovereign of clan Palebrush sarcastically.
“There might be some truth about the rumors we have heard about a plague that is spreading through the Arkronian people. Maybe that is why they haven’t come out en mass to uhm... greet us.” Responded Cael.
It was clear that something was going on in the capital of the realm. What and to what extent remained a mystery for the prime servant. However he had the contacts within the city to shed some more light on the situation and prior to departure Cael Drumain made sure that the right currency for the exchange was added to the king’s entourage.
The Arkronian host escorted his guests through Marble lane towards the center of the City of Arkronia. Many regarded Akronia as a place of beauty and wonder but the truth was that it was more a city of walls and secrets. The city was organized into strict districts all protected by their own inner walls. There were special human districts, the dockyards at the great river, residential areas based upon social status and wealth and at the heart of the city lies the Royal palace.
The Royal Arkronian Palace was more than just a single building. Many would regard it as a district in its own right. The palace was in essence a large walled complex with many buildings inside. At the heart was what most would call the palace. The gigantic white granite structure was modeled in an octagon shaped outer structure with eight towers. The octagon is the part of the palace where the ministers of the kingdom of Arkron have their offices. Inside the octagon is the second part of the structure known as the Royal residence.
However the Vulpin delegation would not yet be taken that deep into the Royal Palace. For official diplomatic missions the Akronian Palace had many guesthouses near the outer walls. These were large villa-like buildings which holded all the facilities a king and his entourage would need during their stay in the capital. From luxurious large suites for high ranking guests to dormitories for servants and guards. The dining hall of these guesthouses are lavishly decorated and the kitchen well stocked. The Arkronians have a habit of spending huge amounts of coin to impress their guests.
With the evening approaching the Vulpin delegation settled into their guesthouse in the Royal Palace. King Aidar sat near the fireplace and felt the warmth as if the flames were surrounding him. Even though the old king had resided on multiple occasions in such a guesthouse it never ceased to amaze the Vulpin. Where his wooden keep in Vulpinia was a drafty place and a nightmare to heat, the Arkronian guest quarters were a marvel of engineering that always seemed to have the right temperature.
King Aidar looked up as one of the servants approached him.
“My liege, you have an unopened message from Canthor” spoke the servant.
Curiously the old king studied his servant. Usually it was Cael who would barge in with such messages. He quickly took the parchment that had been sent to him from by the Hegemon and noticed that it had arrived before their departure. He quickly read through the message.
“It seems that they are done fighting each other in Canthor. As expected the Hegemon has won the civil war. He’s throwing a party to celebrate his victory after the coronation ceremony. What is that man thinking? I’m getting too old to travel all across the continent. Cael, arrange that the Hegemon is invited to a drink in our temporary residence to celebrate his victory. ” said the king a bit annoyed.
“My liege, Cael isn’t here.”
“What do you mean by isn’t here? He’s always at my side”
King Aidar looked around the room and now only noticed that it was just him and the servant. He could not help but to feel that he was getting too old for his job as he did not notice that his prime servant had left his side.
“I think he has left the royal palace sire. I saw him leaving the guesthouse with one of the new warriors in your warband.”
The king sighed as he heard the news. Once more he turned towards the fire and looked at the flames. “He took Callumn Dubhghaill with him, right?”
“Yes sire, the young one with the large ears.”
The king closed his eyes. If Cael had taken the youngest son of clan longear with him then he knew exactly where his prime servant was going. “Nothing good can come from dealing with that man.” murmured the old Vulpin as he watched how the flames engulfed a piece of wood in the fireplace.
Dear Nidor Xuleyn,
We are delighted to hear about your final victory in the civil war. May the end of the war be the start of an era of peace and prosperity for your people.
I would like to invite you to have a drink in celebration at our temporary residence in Arkronia. We have brought some bottles of Vulpin moonshine with us. A perfect strong spirit for bringing a toast to your victory.
Yours sincerily,
King Aidar Fir Shadowfax King of the 9 Vulpin clans
@Conrad Looks good but there is one elephant in the room that needs to be addressed.
Military: Since the formation of the Hegemony, the military has now been reformed. Armies are now semi-professional, centered around geographical regions of the realm. In times of war, each region will provide a regional army composed of no more than 8.000 soldiers, as agreed with the arkronite crown. In total, Canthor is legally allowed up to 24.000 soldiers, split along three main regions: Western Canthor, Middle Canthor and Eastern Canthor. One army is composed of 5.000 soldiers, 2.000 cavalry and 1.000 auxiliary (engineers, siege experts and miscellaneous). In reality, Canthor's manpower can effectively raise up to 50.000 military personnel altogether. The traditional light marine infantry used for centuries in riveranian warfare has been steadily replaced, due to the hegemonic campaigns against the republicans, with a modern elite heavy infantry units composed of pikemen, halberdiers and bowmen, with an elite corps of heavy cataphract cavalries. However, levied peasants remain an integral part of the armies, and are the main bulk of the mobilized armies. The only remaining separate military unit is the Shanna's Chosen, a religiously fanatic sect of military trained soliders specifically chosen to guard the capital and the hegemon.
Some guidelines about nation creation: * I don't care about numbers, avoid using them. Rather write about how your society functions and what the effects of the terrain and climate are on their culture. <------------ * Work together with your fellow roleplayers to write some shared history. Prior to the arrival of the Men from Beyond the sea most nations where at eachother throat and old wounds might still exist. * Players can create their own races as long as they follow the following guidelines; The general guidelines are that the races must resemble humans in their capabilities and how they live. In short, they must live on land, eat food, drink water, breath air walk on two legs and be in a decent size range compared to humans. Avoid races that are warped demons, that fly, live underwater or live in total hellscapes that are inaccessible to others.
The military part is not really in line with the guidelines for nation creation. Can you rewrite that section without using numbers? I like the splitup between regions. Something along the lines of "Each army consists primarily of infantry supported by some cavalry and specialist auxilliary forces." will do.
There is also another question I have. You've said you wanted to extend your territory but never posted a new map. Can you do that so that I can adjust the map?
Lord Wyron
Silverwind Blade
Expendable
Abstract Proxy
Fetzen
Yankee
