Zayuz

Another reservation map update!

The Avakonian Empire Avakonia - Region 51 Terrain Avakonia has naturally come to encompass the southern half of the Strait of Vratis, the channel of water that binds Emjata’s two central seas together. Featuring a Mediterranean climate, they have a tremendous capacity for agriculture in their territories and find that seasons range from dry and hot in the summer to cool and wet in the winter. Snow is very rare here, but not entirely unheard of. Due to the seabound position, Avakonia also features an abundance of fishing and trading. It has always been known that the holder of the Strait of Vratis would enact tariffs on those who pass through their waters, and this practice has only grown more restrictive and costly since the Avakonian empire fell into decline. Not all land along the strait is suited for harbours though, as the steep cliff walls raise the general elevation well above sea level as both a defensive boon and a commonly lamented curse among travellers. The city of Avakon is the namesake of the empire and the capital of her demesne. The largest of several cities in the region, its prosperity and prestige are legendary. Avakon had received the riches of a continental conquest a century ago, and the wealth that brought her made the land decadent from the people to their architecture. Pillars inlaid with shining metals describe Dejan’s conquests, portraying Avakonian brilliance and telling of their most significant battles. The markets they surround stretch for miles, where merchants from all lands come to make their living from the still abundant coffers of the still abundant coffers of that war chest. So goes a saying: If it cannot be found in the markets of Avakon, it does not exist. Due to the area’s development relative to their peers, little remains of the forests that once covered Avakonia. The Atlan Fields are what replaced them when cities did not, grand stretches of farmland as far as the eye can see. They grow many fruits and vegetables, animals, wheat, and alcohol, but they’ve become commonplace and cheap in the city for their abundance. The people of Avakonia covet the exotic and entertaining fruits of other lands, and as such the development of these great fields has stagnated. They have always been enough to feed the cities of the empire, and have even been the site of many a legendary battle. This does not stop them from being an underappreciated mote of beauty in an often dangerous world. History Avakonia was not always the centre of the world politically, even if it nearly is geographically. Distant legends claim that once there were many small city-states in the region that competed for supremacy, coming to desperate wars that tore the region apart until an uneasy truce was reached. None of them - with most legends claiming five - could overcome the other, and this stalemate lasted for centuries until the ruler of Avakon was faced with the combined might of the others, who agreed that their state was becoming a threat with their novel bronze work and military buildup to defend against pirates on the seas. This war went poorly for the coalition and ended in the crowning of the first King of Avakonia, whose name shall be remembered as Domnicus. Since then they have always been prosperous, able to control the strait and impose tariffs on any who pass through their waters. Demonstrating the supremacy of their Goddess Rieba again and again, she came to be the leader of the Perijanist faith through their deeds attributed to her glory. When Dejan married the sister of the King during his vast conquests, he was able to win the loyalty of the powerful region and it became his seat through which his empire commanded Emjata. Under his stewardship and with the sudden tide of riches and offerings sent to the city, it was brought to heights that no land has seen before or since. Trade and taxes poured into the military efforts, and in only five years after his takeover of Avakonia he had united Emjata. Dejan was rarely seen in Avakon, for he had been on campaign for the full five years, but the people still remember him as their fondest ruler for the wealth it brought them. This is the birthplace of Dejanism, though it was never accepted by the clergy in control of the land’s temples. When Dejan died, his brother Andavent assumed control of Estensule (the southwest sub-continent) and with it, Avakon. The general ruled with a gentle hand, prioritizing construction and infrastructure to try and rebuild or at least maintain the vast holdings that the Empire had assumed so quickly. This was concentrated in the capital more than other regions, and when it became clear that the other generals would not rejoin his brother’s empire he used it as propaganda to project himself as the most generous of his successors. His strategy was successful, and his son Dvanik’s marriage to the queen of the Karysites cemented the warrior-women’s enduring loyalty. Their daughter, Rafaela Jenasia Zhekurus, made good use of their talents in securing the Tabratin peninsula, north of the Vratic Strait, establishing the modern borders of the empire. Since then, the empire has been forced to focus solely on the maintenance of these borders, and Avakon’s position to control trade has steadily declined. That said, it will take some time for it to be fully shaken from its place of supremacy over the rest of the world’s trade cities. People The people of Avakonia come from all corners of the world, though they are predominantly humans of bronze skin. To be Avakonian is to know the diversity of the world, for wealth runs through the blood of many in these lands for their ancestor’s deeds in battle, through the administration of the Empire, and the communities of men and women that naturally form when ambitious people come to the world’s wealthiest jewel seeking their fortune. Hard work was once the virtue that all Avakonians built their society, but after so long at the top their complacency has warped this desire for satisfying labour. Culture in the present day focuses more on the excitement that comes from experiencing new trends, separating those at the top from those that cannot afford to keep pace. Communities of merchants from other cultures have formed, with Sea Elves having come to occupy several of the smaller city states with their natural advantages as sailors. Renowned for their ability to navigate hostile waters and deliver shipments against the worst of odds, they have been accepted as an integral part of the Avakonian identity alongside the Dwarves that work the lower districts, and who originally brought the secrets of bronze working to the great city. Though they claim to have lived in the caves under the cliffs before the founding of the city, the other folk have a common understanding that this is a lie they tell to feel more a part of a community in which they are a vast minority. Nonetheless, they and many other peoples are welcome to live among the Avakonians and call the city of Avakon home. The Empire has a lingering issue with corruption, with trade tariffs and tax collectors lining their pockets at the expense of the people. The military as well has engaged in kleptocracy with no checks to stop them, and now live with the same wealth and status as many nobles; the two castes have become almost interchangeable in recent years. Only with monumental reforms might the empire endure into the next age, or else these issues and many others may lead to their collapse as the other three successor states have before them. Resource Avakon has received many boons since the trade boom came with Dejan’s conquest, but it also came with curses. Invasive snakes found their way into the Empire’s capital, and by the time the problem had reached the attention of those with the authority to do anything about it, they were impossible to root out. Thus, Avakon’s resource is Snakes. They require Bronze (Tin+Copper) to maintain their legendary standing army, without which the legions tend to claim they are unfit for battle… Faith The capital of the Empire follows the pantheon of Perijanism, with each city-state in the region claiming a specific deity as their patron god. Minor gods of every shape and aspect had local temples and followings, with the Perijanist temple overlooking the Strait of Vratis coming to be known as the Temple of a Hundred Gods, or more formally the All-Gods Pantheon. Just as the name would suggest, those visitors from afar are encouraged to add and maintain shrines to their local deities here, but the custodians have been quite lax in their requirements. As long as one is maintained and not obviously heretical, they allow it to be present. This has resulted in many spirits of Jalyeong-Bo taking root under the guise of distant Perijanist gods that people now confusingly revere the same way. Some deities are based on local myths that have no evidence of ever existing, and there are even whispers of darker cult deities that hide among the many in the great temple, just out of sight. The patron god of Avakon that most people in Avakonia have come to revere is Rieba, goddess of the sea and knowledge. Overlooking two seas as Avakonia does, she finds a natural place among sailors and traders, as well as scholars and priests who come to this centre of culture seeking the finest education in the Avakonian Empire. She has a sailing guild called the Rieban Merchants Alliance founded in her honour that oversees the tariffs and defence of the strait. One of the divinities that the All-Gods Pantheon dares not accept among them is Dejan, who was a mortal despite his great conquests. Instead, the Cult of Dejanism worships the great Statue of Dejan that was built during his great act of unifying the world using the spoils of faraway lands. This great marble statue stands tall over the city of Avakon, about one hundred feet (32m) tall and made of bronze. The statue is a cultural site of great renown, with the legendary warrior standing tall. His blade was originally designed to be pointed upwards to the heavens in victory, but the construction of this wonder ended up being too fragile if the weight of the blade was added using only the arms to support it. Subsequently, his hand still rests in position to raise a blade to the sky, but remains empty to this day. There is a Majority of Perijanism and Minorities of Dejanism and Jaelyong-Bo in the region. Additional Lore: Slavery in Avakonia Avakonia has taken slaves from other lands during their strong times, typically returning them to their territories to work the fields/mines or as domestic servants for those with exceptional educations. Many of the great monuments constructed during the height of the empire were done by slave labor, but Dejan’s brother and his successors have done what they can to try and root out the practice. This was mainly done on moral grounds, and connects with their desire to be seen as a generous power that is less cruel than the other post-dejan states were. This lead to only mixed success… The practice is officially banned, but almost never enforced due to the Empire’s rampant corruption. It’s not unheard of for small slave rebellions to pop up, especially in recent times as order begins to fray. Flag Credit to RolePGeek as Avakonia's Original Creator, this is my version of the faction for our iteration of Empire!

Thanks for the applications everyone! For anyone not in our discord, here's a map of the currently reserved regions. Potato has also added a timeline to the lore section for dates relevant to Dejan's conquests, and we would be happy to let everyone adjust things as needed if this changes their designs! Let us know if you do.

Behold, Avakonia! You may use this region as an example for others, or to draw inspiration from. It contains more details about Avakoinia and her conquests than other posts have. Please keep in mind that while player factions only have one resource requirement, Avakonia has two. I intend to expand the people section to go into a bit more depth before it's fully 'finished,' but it will contain mostly fluff details about ways of life and such. Additionally, Avakonia has a flag seen here. I'll edit the post to be pretty with it when I have some time to toy with MythWeavers formatting! Flag Of course, tremendous credit to RolePGeek as the original author of Avakonia and GM of Empire 4. Below is my adaptation of the concept for our game. As GM I hereby approve my own region. :p Avakonia - Region 51 Terrain Avakonia has naturally come to encompass the southern half of the Strait of Vratis, the channel of water that binds Emjata’s two central seas together. Featuring a Mediterranean climate, they have a tremendous capacity for agriculture in their territories and find that seasons range from dry and hot in the summer to cool and wet in the winter. Snow is very rare here, but not entirely unheard of. Due to the seabound position, Avakonia also features an abundance of fishing and trading. It has always been known that the holder of the Strait of Vratis would enact tariffs on those who pass through their waters, and this practice has only grown more restrictive and costly since the Avakonian empire fell into decline. Not all land along the strait is suited for harbours though, as the steep cliff walls raise the general elevation well above sea level as both a defensive boon and a commonly lamented curse among travellers. The city of Avakon is the namesake of the empire and the capital of her demesne. The largest of several cities in the region, its prosperity and prestige are legendary. Avakon had received the riches of a continental conquest a century ago, and the wealth that brought her made the land decadent from the people to their architecture. Pillars inlaid with shining metals describe Dejan’s conquests, portraying Avakonian brilliance and telling of their most significant battles. The markets they surround stretch for miles, where merchants from all lands come to make their living from the still abundant coffers of the still abundant coffers of that war chest. So goes a saying: If it cannot be found in the markets of Avakon, it does not exist. Due to the area’s development relative to their peers, little remains of the forests that once covered Avakonia. The Atlan Fields are what replaced them when cities did not, grand stretches of farmland as far as the eye can see. They grow many fruits and vegetables, animals, wheat, and alcohol, but they’ve become commonplace and cheap in the city for their abundance. The people of Avakonia covet the exotic and entertaining fruits of other lands, and as such the development of these great fields has stagnated. They have always been enough to feed the cities of the empire, and have even been the site of many a legendary battle. This does not stop them from being an underappreciated mote of beauty in an often dangerous world. History Avakonia was not always the centre of the world politically, even if it nearly is geographically. Distant legends claim that once there were many small city-states in the region that competed for supremacy, coming to desperate wars that tore the region apart until an uneasy truce was reached. None of them - with most legends claiming five - could overcome the other, and this stalemate lasted for centuries until the ruler of Avakon was faced with the combined might of the others, who agreed that their state was becoming a threat with their novel bronze work and military buildup to defend against pirates on the seas. This war went poorly for the coalition and ended in the crowning of the first King of Avakonia, whose name shall be remembered as Domnicus. Since then they have always been prosperous, able to control the strait and impose tariffs on any who pass through their waters. Demonstrating the supremacy of their Goddess Rieba again and again, she came to be the leader of the Perijanist faith through their deeds attributed to her glory. When Dejan married the sister of the King during his vast conquests, he was able to win the loyalty of the powerful region and it became his seat through which his empire commanded Emjata. Under his stewardship and with the sudden tide of riches and offerings sent to the city, it was brought to heights that no land has seen before or since. Trade and taxes poured into the military efforts, and in only five years after his takeover of Avakonia he had united Emjata. Dejan was rarely seen in Avakon, for he had been on campaign for the full five years, but the people still remember him as their fondest ruler for the wealth it brought them. This is the birthplace of Dejanism, though it was never accepted by the clergy in control of the land’s temples. When Dejan died, his brother Andavent assumed control of Estensule (the southwest sub-continent) and with it, Avakon. The general ruled with a gentle hand, prioritizing construction and infrastructure to try and rebuild or at least maintain the vast holdings that the Empire had assumed so quickly. This was concentrated in the capital more than other regions, and when it became clear that the other generals would not rejoin his brother’s empire he used it as propaganda to project himself as the most generous of his successors. His strategy was successful, and his son Dvanik’s marriage to the queen of the Karysites cemented the warrior-women’s enduring loyalty. Their daughter, Rafaela Jenasia Zhekurus, made good use of their talents in securing the Tabratin peninsula, north of the Vratic Strait, establishing the modern borders of the empire. Since then, the empire has been forced to focus solely on the maintenance of these borders, and Avakon’s position to control trade has steadily declined. That said, it will take some time for it to be fully shaken from its place of supremacy over the rest of the world’s trade cities. People The people of Avakonia come from all corners of the world, though they are predominantly humans of bronze skin. To be Avakonian is to know the diversity of the world, for wealth runs through the blood of many in these lands for their ancestor’s deeds in battle, through the administration of the Empire, and the communities of men and women that naturally form when ambitious people come to the world’s wealthiest jewel seeking their fortune. Hard work was once the virtue that all Avakonians built their society, but after so long at the top their complacency has warped this desire for satisfying labour. Culture in the present day focuses more on the excitement that comes from experiencing new trends, separating those at the top from those that cannot afford to keep pace. Communities of merchants from other cultures have formed, with Sea Elves having come to occupy several of the smaller city states with their natural advantages as sailors. Renowned for their ability to navigate hostile waters and deliver shipments against the worst of odds, they have been accepted as an integral part of the Avakonian identity alongside the Dwarves that work the lower districts, and who originally brought the secrets of bronze working to the great city. Though they claim to have lived in the caves under the cliffs before the founding of the city, the other folk have a common understanding that this is a lie they tell to feel more a part of a community in which they are a vast minority. Nonetheless, they and many other peoples are welcome to live among the Avakonians and call the city of Avakon home. The Empire has a lingering issue with corruption, with trade tariffs and tax collectors lining their pockets at the expense of the people. The military as well has engaged in kleptocracy with no checks to stop them, and now live with the same wealth and status as many nobles; the two castes have become almost interchangeable in recent years. Only with monumental reforms might the empire endure into the next age, or else these issues and many others may lead to their collapse as the other three successor states have before them. Resource Avakon has received many boons since the trade boom came with Dejan’s conquest, but it also came with curses. Invasive snakes found their way into the Empire’s capital, and by the time the problem had reached the attention of those with the authority to do anything about it, they were impossible to root out. Thus, Avakon’s resource is Snakes. They require Bronze (Tin+Copper) to maintain their legendary standing army, without which the legions tend to claim they are unfit for battle… Faith The capital of the Empire follows the pantheon of Perijanism, with each city-state in the region claiming a specific deity as their patron god. Minor gods of every shape and aspect had local temples and followings, with the Perijanist temple overlooking the Strait of Vratis coming to be known as the Temple of a Hundred Gods, or more formally the All-Gods Pantheon. Just as the name would suggest, those visitors from afar are encouraged to add and maintain shrines to their local deities here, but the custodians have been quite lax in their requirements. As long as one is maintained and not obviously heretical, they allow it to be present. This has resulted in many spirits of Jalyeong-Bo taking root under the guise of distant Perijanist gods that people now confusingly revere the same way. Some deities are based on local myths that have no evidence of ever existing, and there are even whispers of darker cult deities that hide among the many in the great temple, just out of sight. The patron god of Avakon that most people in Avakonia have come to revere is Rieba, goddess of the sea and knowledge. Overlooking two seas as Avakonia does, she finds a natural place among sailors and traders, as well as scholars and priests who come to this centre of culture seeking the finest education in the Avakonian Empire. She has a sailing guild called the Rieban Merchants Alliance founded in her honour that oversees the tariffs and defence of the strait. One of the divinities that the All-Gods Pantheon dares not accept among them is Dejan, who was a mortal despite his great conquests. Instead, the Cult of Dejanism worships the great Statue of Dejan that was built during his great act of unifying the world using the spoils of faraway lands. This great marble statue stands tall over the city of Avakon, about one hundred feet (32m) tall and made of bronze. The statue is a cultural site of great renown, with the legendary warrior standing tall. His blade was originally designed to be pointed upwards to the heavens in victory, but the construction of this wonder ended up being too fragile if the weight of the blade was added using only the arms to support it. Subsequently, his hand still rests in position to raise a blade to the sky, but remains empty to this day. There is a Majority of Perijanism and Minorities of Dejanism and Jaelyong-Bo in the region.

Hello! I'll be a co-gm for this game playing the remnants of the Avakonian Empire. They're big, bad, and ready to be absolutely rocked by players. I'll be uploading a region writeup for their capital of Avakonia soon, but in the meantime here are some fun worldbuilding elements to consider when thinking of how your faction might perceive them today. - Empress-Regent Aemiliana of the Avakonian Empire is ruling in stead of her son, who is still too young to take the throne. - The Empire is corrupt nearly all the way through, and focused more on internal affairs than projecting power over other kingdoms - Their state religion is Perijanism, which means they serve a pantheon of Gods. Their favourite is Khompur, a God of Earth and Agriculture. - Many of the original holdings of the Empire were lost to their generals claiming independence, and they would love to regain their former holdings if any fledgling powers wish to work with them. If you do this, expect to help them more than they help you. Please feel free to ask any questions here or in our discord if you're curious about Empire! This game is particularly aimed at newer players who haven't participated in other Empires, and though the system can appear daunting it's very simple once you get to know it.

The Bironian Bulwark Actions [Diplomacy] Constrict a HIVE in Kinella (R14) [1/5] [Diplomacy] Sway Government in Control Center (3) Cinder Skye has proven herself a Paragon, and in the midst of the collapse of the Control Centre and its constituent territories this pulls a lot of weight. Many who have lost faith in the government turn to this new leader from nowhere and wonder if it's true. Could a non-human from outside their training programs really be capable of manipulating the galaxy itself? Obvious evidence points to no, but the potential and the desire for hope in times like these make even the most learned desperate for something to believe in. [Economy 5] Trade Route with RAT: Dahlia Shipping Network [Faith] Construct a HIVE in Kinella (R14) [2/5] [Faith] Declare state religion: Soul's Fascination The only major faith in the Bironian Crosspaths has been Fascination for years. Gods and the other great leaders of history are viewed as agents of fate, and only through Chairman Alchire's stubborn refusal to conflict state and faith was the motion to adopt it formally into the ruling philosophies of government. Under the rule of Cinder Skye, the Bulwark suddenly welcomes all of these rich philosophies and culture that come with Soul's Fascination - the syncretic adaptation of two of Badal's most populous faiths. In this faith, the Bulwark comes to believe that this is how great people come to guide fate for many others - great souls of inner peace and potential may do this, and through honing oneself through adapting and overcoming life's challenges they may control their own fate, as well as those around you. Only very few are called to command the fates of others, and it becomes commonplace to believe that the Emperor is the ultimate authority and arbiter of fate in Ophon. Those elected to lead the Bulwark, of course, have some potential in this as well. Cinder Skye questioning the Emperor is watched with bated breath, to determine if she was worthy of calling his attention and challenging this avatar of fate and power himself... [REDO - No action Type] Invent Technology: Novacore Drive Mk2 Tier 2 Economic Technology Requirements: Tesseractic Storage Technology (T1 - Magic Items Resource), Nuclear Fusion Technology (T0), Arcane Amplification Technology (T0), Noble Metals Resource Effect: Allows travel beyond the Great Gulf into the outer system. Huma (Orbit 8) is considered the point of arrival instead of Wakinyan. Summary: With the discovery of the great gulf's outer worlds and Tesseractic storage, the Hazemancers of Novacore Foundaries discover a fascinating application for their art that allows the creation of a portal that curves space into convenient entrance and exit points. Focusing the portal to be vast enough to fit a ship is a delicate art, but one that a reactor dubbed the Novacore Drive Mk2 is able to accomplish. While the magical feats accomplished by the drive would tear most materials apart, the Noble Metal frame prevents the drive or the portal from becoming unstable and tearing the ship apart. The portals seem to have a fixed length to their distance, roughly stretching from Badal to Huma (30AU). Due to this extreme length, curving space using the drive to move shorter distances is a dangerous and computationally expensive procedure. In the worst case when the original Mk1 drive was to be used as a teleporter, many of the ships in test were 'shredded' by the portal on exit - appearing as decimated chunks far off from their intended destination. Contact with the physical realm is impossible while in the realm that Hazemanders have dubbed slipspace, and all slipspace jumps take just over two weeks to prevent future shredding. Though this makes traversal to the outer system relatively fast and easy for some, the extreme cost associated with acquiring the material to operate these drives prevents them from becoming commonplace. Fluff, Non-Actions, and Character Building Support the conversion of the Bironian Crossroads (R17) and Kinella (R14) to Soul's Fascination TRADE ROUTES: The Neon Transitway: Supply BCC with Fuel for their DI in Suaka Beruntung (R15) Receive Tesseractic Storage and Hyperlight Transceivers from BCC Dahlia Shipping Network: Receive X and Y from RAT for the purpose of powering and inventing technology. Imperial Senate: Vote for the Empire to enact no decree. Additionally, request the official faith of the Emperor. In the Bulwark, the Edict choices are given a particularly bad spin by the media, and prompts a panic among the Yinasse people. It warrents a response, as given by Chairwoman Cinder Skye. Fear of the empire's ultimate power can manifest in many forms, and sometimes defensiveness is the shape it takes. A missive addressed to the Imperial Embassy of Kinella, homeland of the Yinasse and province of the Bironian Bulwark: To the Emperor and his resplendent representatives through which order and justice is maintained, One month ago the office of the Bironian Bulwark received an invitation to vote on the next imperial decree. At this news I was overjoyed, for we have long been loyal and devoted servants of the Emperor. Not only have we complied with all decrees and participated in all possible requests (Rep 2, 2 favors owed to BIR), but our liege lord Jié Měifēng of the Black Cloud Coalition has also been nominated for the seats of the Imperial Senate as one of your most stalwart allies. However, this was no invitation to join the Senate; it is a choice between three punishments to be broadly applied to the Elect for crimes yet undetermined. We acknowledge that there are members of the Elect who have proven unworthy of the Emperor's trust, but without clear motive we cannot correct our mistakes in the future. Should none be given, we fear that this could stir anti-imperial sentiment and undermine trust in our protector. The Bironian Bulwark, for one, will be voting for none of these requests until these concerns are addressed or a pardon is given to those the Emperor recognizes as giving more to the Empire than she requests. As a separate matter; the Yinasse of Kinella, people such as myself, have found common ground with the Goddess Coedd for her shared nature and impressive power. I personally view her as a being of enormous magical potential, one of few who share my origin as a sentient being of plant matter who should be reasoned with before being condemned. I clarify here that I do not take her as my Goddess, nor do any in the Bironian government. From Yinasse civilians who have had contact with her through her avatars, I have come to believe that she is merely unfamiliar in human mannerisms and could potentially be educated if she recognizes the glory of the Emperor and the danger she could be in if she refuses. Further, Coedd could be a key factor in spreading new life to the worlds across the Great Gap, as her powers are truly unique among those seen in the talents of the Elect. Even my own powers as High Druid of the Ak'Richi Yinasse cannot compare to her ability to create life. We urge you to remember Edict 213512-C from the year 677 of the 96,455th Era and exclude the Yinasse living in the garden of Kinella from any punishment leveraged against Coedd's faithful, as the Emperor promised all plant-life protections from external meddling in our home and aerostat. This talk of condemning faith in Coedd has raised the question from those in the Bulwark - to what code does the Emperor live his life? Does he take a divine to pray to, regard any virtue, person, or object in particular as sacred, or is the Emperor above such matters as a pilot of fate? This will help us determine our own doctrines and policy going forward. Signed by Chairwoman Cinder Skye of the Bironian Crosspaths and Kinella in the Year 2055 of the 99,803rd Era. Supporting Signatures: Zhen Lithium, Kingpin Alchire of the Neon Syndicate, Captain Almari of the Iridium Order, Archknight Rofl'Biron ... [OOC: DM me to add your character to the supporting signatures section] Pure Fluff (Internal Politics Update) A House of Clipped Wings Mei-lyn Lithium (or just Mei to those she considers friends) is the niece of the fallen Archknight Shi Lithium and sister of the current house head, lending her a strong claim to their house. Collaborating closely with her brother Zhen Lithium since the fall of their mother, they have managed to keep the house together even as it fades from immediate relevance with the civil war, their mother's prestige, and the Archknight title. Assigned to represent their house when doing diplomacy with the Black Cloud Coalition, she would have come to meet her future partners. Mei is very proficient in dueling and military matters, but would have over her relationship with her polycule begun to relax and appreciate the world instead of constantly striving to follow in her aunt's footsteps. She'd enjoy trying those other things that Jié Huīshēng makes her practice, but only really dabbles to spend time with her loved ones as a leisure activity. Perhaps one day she might overthrow the Glix (Rofl'biron) that stole her family's 'rightful' place as Archknight, but she currently lacks the skill and influence to do so. Political Parties in the Bironian Bulwark (Bold is in power) Neon Syndicate (Econ/Intrigue focus, motivated by coin) Oasis Initiative (Faith/Dip focus, motivated by prophecy) Archknight Rofl'Biron (Mil/? focus, motivated by honour) Iridium Order (Mil/Faith focus, motivated by glory) House Lithium (Mil/Dip focus, motivated by legacy) Argon Alliance (Int/Faith focus, motivated by Yanji) Chairwoman Cinder SkyeYinasse are plantfolk from Kinella (R14) that have evolved to use plant matter instead of the flesh of most creatures. They otherwise resemble and are compatible with human life, though they have different needs and cannot conceive mammalian children. Cinder Skye is one such Yinasse, a druid of great magical talent. She can be identified by her long mane of orange leaves for hair marked with red and yellow blossoms that appear interwoven, and she often appears in a robes of Shadowsilk with Noble Metal accents to mark her status. She is leader of the Oasis Initiative, a recent political movement that wishes to put the Bulwark at the forefront of outer system exploration and colonization. To win her election, she used this as well as the stirrings of Soul's Expression to suggest that this would help Biron discover their destiny as explorers and adventurers. Cinder Skye is a name taken by the character to better adapt to the local human culture and the members of the Empire. Her true name is High Druid X'tivi-locorra of the Ak'Richi Yinasse. Though she has left her faith to private matters, she seems to have participated Paragonism rituals, invoked Coedd in her concerns to the Empire, and had Soul's Fascination adopted as the official faith of the Bironian Bulwark - rather confusing to those trying to track her loyalties. (She/Her) Diplomacy: 4 Military: 2 Economy: 5 Faith: 4 Intrigue: 2 Unit Cap: 3/8 Treasure: 3 Ground Units: 1 Space Units: 2 Regions: The Bironian Crosspaths R17 Kinella R14

The Bironian Bulwark Actions [Economy 10] Invent a Technology (Unapproved) Name: Novacore Drive Requirements: Noble Metals Resource, Nuclear Fusion Technology, Arcane Amplification Technology Effect: Allows travel beyond the Great Gulf into the outer system. Huma (Orbit 8) is considered the point of arrival instead of Wakinyan. Summary: A Noble Metal cage around a (Biron based) super-condensed magical fluid creates a sliver through space that, after charging up to a size that can fit the ship, shoots it out at about 1% of light speed once it moves through. Lacking any braking technology, this makes the most distant worlds across the great gap available instead of the closest. It is not an effective weapon due to the sheet cost of creating the portal, limiting travel to the select few who trade in noble metals. Context: The Bulwark had entered a period of ultimate excitement with the ability to reach the outer system becoming possible. As public opinion shifts hard in the direction of exploration and off-world industry, Novacore Foundries, the most impressive Noble Metal factory in the Crosspaths, makes attempts to find a faster way to reach the outer system with their new wealth from the recent economic boom. The Novacore Drive concentrates the most advanced forms of Bironian Hazemancy in a Noble Metal reactor, forming a level of pressure that destroys even the strongest mundane equipment before forming a sliver in the fabric of space that can grow to form a sort of portal that shoots ships in their entirety across the system. Problematically, these ships that suddenly shoot out at roughly 1% of light speed move too fast. Even the closer planets in the great gap are dangerous destinations with the Novacore drive, as they very often fail to stop before slamming into their destinations or falling apart due to strain of braking. Only the outermost world of Huma is considered a ‘safe’ destination, as the vast distances of the solar system’s edges compensate for these faults. [Economy] Buy R101 Helium-3 TP1: PASS 10 Economy -1 Orbit Penalty With the discovery of a new world across the great gap and the subsequent rush to explore it and its many moons, fuel has become the most in-demand resource in the solar system. Even though the Bironian Bulwark lacks the tech to use it - or any technology at all, being one of few powers not to have adopted a single innovation since the pronunciation of the elect - they know that the Black Cloud Coalition region of R15 requires it for proper function, and this makes the needs of their liege matter more than the threat of foreign competition. [Economy] Impress Merchants in R13: PASS Auto pass Using the Vibrating Crystals of R85, the Bironian Bulwark sways the Merchants of the newly prospected colony producing so much of the Shadowsilk they've become obsessed with. The agreement is mutually beneficial, stabilizing the needs of the land while drastically increasing the financial pull the Bulwark is receiving in turn. A win for free trade! Next, the Bulwark sets their sights upon the new planet across the great gap, if only they had the means to get there... [Economy] Purchase Grigialfheim (R51) Ryban Fish TP2: PASS 10 from Economy Score -1 from differing orbit [Intrigue] Secret Fluff, Non-Actions, and Character Building Support the conversion of the Bironian Crossroads (R17) and Kinella (R14) to Soul's Fascination Support the conversion of Kinella (R14) to Coedd Permit the conversion from Fascination to Soul's Fascination in the Bironian Crossroads (R17) New ruler next round, rolled in rolls section. Name: Cinder Skye (she/her) D:4 M:2 E:5 F:4 I:2 Coronal Catalogue of Duelists: Bironian Single Combat As suggested at the Bironian Bash and Pirate Party, duels are the archetypical way for Bironian succession to proceed. The importance of the leader of the Bulwark to be a character of legendary martial skill has, through all time, been paramount to the culture of the Aerostat. In recent history this is no longer the case, creating quite some friction, but the traditions remain strong. Two people face off in a one on one combat, bringing with them any equipment or preparation they desire. Stimulants, potions, or concoctions, are expected, as it is desired that the competition fights as they would on the battlefield where their life is on the line. However, all actual fighting is limited to martial weapons. Those conjured by spells are allowed on technicality, but each must occupy a hand and primary be used from the grip of the fighter. Duels are until submission, knockout, or death, the stakes for which are decided by the fighters in advance. If, in a non-lethal duel, a participant should be killed, this brings great dishonor to the victor. Their victory stands, but the chivalric values that motivate the contest are considered violated. There are many historical examples of Archknights being refused their position after killing their opponent, their council citing a lack of control or regard for others as a critical flaw in a leader of men. International Renown: Status and Extravagance Among Bironian people, there is a unique ability to inhale concoctions made of Biron and other chemicals that do any number of things to the body. Some are used as combat enhancers, some for highs, and others for any number of purposes. Each lasts in the body for 4-8 weeks, and due to how close to impossible they are to manufacture they happen to be very expensive. Due to this limited availability and cultural significance, bespoke and artisan gas samples are the highest luxury and status symbol a Bironian can possess. Each concoction turns their typically near-translucent bodies opaque and full of color. Those mixtures that provide multiple colors or gradients suggest that a Bironian has one of the most capable Hazemancers in in their sphere of influence - better yet if they can be made to also include other beneficial properties beyond aesthetics. Since the death of the legendary duelist Shi Lithium, no other Bironian has been able to craft a mixture that combines the two - it seems her trade secrets died with her. Pure Fluff (Most relevant to Kythia, Aerin, Role, Imperial Fanatics, and Explorers of the Great Gap) The Iron Masquerade claims Admiral Kazi When Admiral Kazi went missing during the apex of the civil war, most presumed he was dead. He vanished into nothing well before the climactic battle between Yanji and Meifeng, backing the Neon Syndicate. Kazi had a reputation as a brave, often extreme, man of military background. A reputation once known for a career faithfully serving the Archknight and working in the Empire's name on Mercenary contracts across Badal quickly soured as he declared the Emperor unfit for rule due to naming pirates a member of the elect. In his final days as commander of the Order of Sodium, he was supposedly increasingly insane and willing to strike his own people for vengeance against his foes. He was not missed, but many of the former elite would still have preferred he win to the dissolution of their power. Seeing him appear in the clutches of the Iron Masquerade raises Bironian attention to the city of Narsai like never before. What did this mean? How did this happen? A delegate from the noble houses travels to the city for answers, taking with him his priest of Soul's Expression and some cocktails that allow Bironian people to enhance themselves through breathing Biron based chemical magic; that they might remind Kazi of home. "My Lord, where have you been? Yanji is exiled, and the realm remains in the clutches of our foes - weaker and more decadent than ever. We could rebuild the Argon alliance and take back the place of the noble knight as leaders of our realm, we need only to find our lost prince and make the rallying call..." Bulwark Politics - Election Upcoming The incorporation of Kinella into the fabric of the Bironian Bulwark's government would have with the prior system been very difficult. But with the cooperation of the Satrapies, Kinella will now remain the most fortified location on Badal... The people of Kinella demand that the Chairman drastically increase his military presence if they wish for his respect, but he refuses - the economy must come first. With a strong financial seat, he reasons, the new army when it is founded will be better equipped and trained than any of their forbearers. This receives some scoffs. With the election around the corner, despite how much wealth the Chairman has brought to the Bulwark, it seems he may be unseated. Yinasse - Living Plants, and the Oasis Initiative Not all interaction with Kinella is so negative. The Yinassi people - beings of plant material that take the shape of humans - seem to be more interested in collaborating with this new government than their old imperial 'rulers.' Some take their opportunity to move from Kinella to the Bironian Crosspaths where the wealth from trade is accumulating, and begin to take the desolate cities of steel and sand and shape them into grand gardens with real trees and natural beauty. Chairman Alchire adores these efforts to make the Crosspaths more inviting, and becomes close with one of the Yinassi during this time. Her name is Cinder Skye, a Yinassi woman with a long mane of orange leaves for hair marked with red and yellow blossoms. She comes to be something between Chairman Alchire's political protégé and his lover, and founds a new movement among the political groups to make their first priority bringing their civilization across the Great Gap. It is known as the 'Oasis Initiative,' and with the buzz at the discovery of the first planet out there and the synergies with Soul's Expression's desire to find what fate lies out there, it becomes very popular very quickly. Political Parties in the Bironian Bulwark (Bold is in power) Neon Syndicate (Econ/Intrigue focus, motivated by coin) Oasis Initiative (Faith/Dip focus, motivated by prophecy) Archknight Rofl'Biron (Mil/? focus, motivated by honour) Iridium Order (Mil/Faith focus, motivated by glory) House Lithium (Mil/Dip focus, motivated by legacy) Argon Alliance (Int/Faith focus, motivated by Yanji) Chairman AlchireHe wore a clean set of armor, whose interlocking black and white plates, whose texture resembled hardened glass, were highlighted by hints of neon pink beneath. No doubt this was skin, which was apparent enough that he was clearly the same size and shape as a human, though the sawed off horns protruding from his head and that hue of pink suggested that was not the case. Long black hair falls from the back of his helm, which otherwise covered the face. (He/Him) Diplomacy: 4 Military: 2 Economy: 10 Faith: 2 Intrigue: 5 Unit Cap: 3/8 Treasure: 1 Ground Units: 1 Space Units: 2 Regions: The Bironian Crosspaths R17 Kinella R14

Behold, the first Bironian conquest! This region writeup comes with the formal request to change the resource name of region 14 from Yinasse Plants to Yinasse Flowers. It was interesting to write a flora species that filled that category yet no others, from valuables to food to textiles. edit: Resource complete: Requesting Chemical Reagents as the secondary category for Kinella's Yinasse Plants. Region - 14 Region Name: Kinella Geography The Kinella Aerostat is an aerostat of lush greenery, bearing the most consecutive forest and jungle of any Badali region. Originally designed as a place of harvest and sustenance for the planet, it has long since departed its role when a ban on harvesting natural resources came into effect with the arrival of the Imperial Court. Recognizing the inspirational beauty of an agricultural ecosystem on a man-made system, yet entirely distinct from the interference of sentient life, it was designated a protected zone on a bill so old as to be practically unreadable. Since then, the encroaching wilds have gone unabated until formal lines for civilization were drawn up in only the last two or three generations by necessity. Due to the lack of interference and pooling of the solar system’s most beautiful and interesting plants in a single space, the Kinellan greenery is rather unlike any other. It is primarily a single immense platform that tends to be larger than most countries of the non-elect on other worlds, kept aloft by not-quite-blimps, but magical clouds that hover both above and below the land to shroud it in a sort of mist and keep it from descending into the depths. It has long been suspected that powerful generators lie at the core of Kinella, but mining operations have and shall always be entirely forbidden. Speaking of forbidden things, hunting and killing of wildlife under any circumstance violates the land’s purpose and the culture that’s developed. Not because all life is sacred, but because preserving this life is an imperial decree, and is more important than any others. As such, Kinellans are known to import all animal products. The cities and towns on Kinella are in designated zones along the edges of the land, teetering on the edge and often leading to smaller aerostats that technically are not a part of the mainland to get around the strict regulations in the region. The Imperial Court is as such, as is much of the largest city of Araku on the southern tip of the aerostat. People It is known that the Empire’s loyal are mainly humans, and Kinella reflects that with the presence of the Imperial Court. About 80% of the population according to census data confirms this to be the case, while the remaining fraction of native inhabitants identify themselves as Yinasse. Yinasse are distinct from humans in that they tend to form a hybrid between plant and animal. Remaining humanoid in shape and build while their body is weaved of plant cells and the associated materials that compose them. Often, Yinasse find their physiology keeps them from participating in the world in the same way that humans do, and they live in separate societies because of this. Because they technically fall under the imperial edict of protection on Kinella, they are allowed to live among the wilds despite their sentience. Not all of them do, but many communities of druids and peoples free from the structure of the Empire thrive among the abundant wilds in clans that tend to keep to themselves. They still reproduce sexually, making them ‘compatible’ with other mammals despite being unable to create offspring with them. For the Yinasse, fire is abhorred and feared. Their myths claim that a great spirit of nature created them to represent its will to humanity, and aid them against the God of flame and industry. This mission has been a highly successful one within the sphere of Kinella, creating a fascinating dualism that had long influenced the land's culture and traditions, which focus around the question of what the balance should be between artificial construction and wildlife. Where one ends, and where the other begins. Tradition states that this should be based on needs, where the industry is prevented from becoming too strong by taking only what is necessary. Were it not for the inter-aerostat trade and tourism the land receives, it might be very poor indeed. Human culture on Kinella is based on honor and warfare, quite unlike the Yinasse. Following the will of the Emperor as sacred and above all else, they have shaped industrial civilizations on the edges of the aerostat and warred among themselves many a time. Further details about their traditions can be found in the faith section, but they have always been one of the prominent militaries upon Badal and quick to force the will of the emperor on their peers. It is a wonder among them that the Imperial Satrap was not chosen as a member of the elect when the call was made, but they trusted in him to keep the best interests of the solar system at heart - even when it lead to their conquest at the hands of the Bironian Bulwark and their Glix allies. Having a strong tourist presence, safaris and other sightseeing activities are some of what Kinella is known for as well. Good food comes with the lush atmosphere, as private farming is granted an exception to the edict for sustenance that goes into famous local cuisines of salads and pasta dishes. Due to the heavy military presence and the lack of turmoil in the world, it can be considered a safe destination to bring the family as long as recent history does not shake things up too strongly. Religion Imperial Traditions are the culturally significant faith of Kinella. Until recently, they were also the only faith, now overcome by trends of Paragonism and Soul’s Expression. These traditions manifested in the strict adherence to imperial code and near-worship of the empire. Through trade with the empire were the needs of the people met, and the identity of the governments that vied for control over the aerostat all fashioned themselves in their own image of the emperor. Leaders were called Imperial Satraps, and cities functioned similarly to the empire’s relationship to the elect does currently. The emperor will create decrees, and the elect obey. The most loyal and powerful help decide the direction of the empire, and those that disobey lose their legitimacy and are conquered. These traditions followed through in ceremonies and priorities, making having an extensive standing army a first priority so that they may defend the empire. Not only that, but the would-be elect known as the Duchies of Kinella fought among themselves with blade and magic. This fostered strong martial traditions, most effective and repelling outsiders. To love and trust the guidance of the real Emperor was implicit and expected of all, and even today with these traditions entering the background the people still feel a fierce loyalty to the father of the solar system. Most spectacularly are the grand balls held each half-decade, in the ‘Emperor’s Summer Palace’, though the emperor has never been there. Paragonism has appeared to have gripped several of the magically gifted across Kinella, especially among the Yinasse people who practice magic as their foremost method of war and art. A school of thought come to be known as the 'Great Blossom' arose as a mix of Soul's Expression and Paragonism, wherein a prophecy is born of a Yinassi who will bring the beautiful flora of Kinella to distant worlds and make them lush paradises through her devotion. It will elevate her above all people, a new Empress beyond the great gap. This belief is very taboo, but also seems to have ingrained itself deeply in the people... Resource: Yinasse Plants Due to harsh restrictions on farming and tampering with the abundant flora of Kinella, the potentially lucrative harvests of Kinella are forbidden to harvest. Potentially life saving medicines, beautiful fabrics, and exotic fruits all sealed away for the sake of tradition and environmentalism. What can be taken, however, are the flowers that fall from the Yinasse people throughout the region. As a willing gift or property to be sold by sentient flora, these flowers naturally grow, blossom, and fall every 2-3 weeks. They often happen to be multicolored blossoms, resembling lilies with greater ‘poof’ and grow from the heads in place of hair. Known as fine, seasonal decorations or edibles for salads, they cannot be regrown on other worlds and that makes them a valid export for the restrictive Kinellan economy. Fascinatingly, they happen to create significantly more oxygen than most other plants - making them a highly sought after aid for space travel and life support. Or better, just bring a Yinasse as crewman.

The Bironian Bulwark Actions [Economy] Purchase R13 TP1 Shadow Silk from OPEN - SUCCESS [Economy] Purchase R13 TP2 Shadow Silk from OPEN - SUCCESS Shadow silk is the wear in the Bironian Crossroads following the 'great economic boom' that followed the new democratic government. People have the income and the means to secure foreign goods, and the new colony by the United Houses of Senkar has lots of it with nowhere to sell to. In the interest of free trade that the Bironian Bulwark is suddenly so enthusiastic about, they not only secure a full half of the exports but cut into United Houses colonial profits by their fervor and obsession with the good for the next major company. None of this is intentional, but rather an effect of demand being so high at home for fabrics that are light and beautiful. ...Not to mention they pair very well with Noble Metal armor, making the most striking outfits that the Knightly Orders have ever seen. [Economy] Purchase R85 TP1 Vibrating Crystals from OPEN - SUCCESS +1 from Treasure! -3 from orbital distance! Sometimes you need something shiny just to own something shiny. The rich in the Crossroads, as well as the imperial representatives in Kinella need a way to display their fabulous riches, and soon enough thee Vibrating Crystals from a distant orbit are how it's done. The acquisition was difficult and the trade route is expensive to supply, but it certainly makes the intended mark as walking into the rich noble houses is now accompanied by magical glows, lights, and hums that their people have never seen the likes of before. [Economy] Philanthropy: Extraordinary Research Grants Approval (2 Treasure) Culturally, the Bironian Bulwark regarded the empire as the natural order of the solar system and the pinnacle of honor and prestige until their conversion just a few years ago. Though they may no longer regard the Empire's will as holy, the respect and cooperation towards the Emperor is still very present. When the court requests further funds from the Elect to spur technological innovation, the Chairman is pressured into donating a huge sum of the national budget into this effort by his subjects. Though he privately laments that these funds would have been more effectively invested into the economy and military reconstruction efforts, it does show that the democracy component of the new order is functioning as intended. This ends up being celebrated as the first 'proof' of universal democracy's success in the Bulwark. Never before has the vote of the common man mattered, let alone brought about a result that was contrary to the desires of their elected ruler. [Diplomacy] Sway Government Support in Kinella (R14) - SUCCESS Spend 1 treasure! +2 from conquest last round! Kinella is very different to the Bironian Crosspaths in almost every way. The one way it isn't happens to be in government, with the former Satrap and the decentralized cities along the rim of the Aerostat bowing to one leader who relies on their cooperation without being able to give them real commands. This system has recently been phased out in the Crosspaths, and so it goes the same in Kinella. Each satrapy is made to swear to the chairman after their conquest, recognizing that as an elect they carry more of the empire's favor than their own ruler did. Most noble houses are placed under martial law for the first few years to assure that their loyalty and commands will be followed, and only released once enough Bironians are placed in office to assure that any disloyalty will be made aware of well in advance. Clever satraps use marriage connections to get out of this bind. Less clever ones suffer under the Chairman's heel. Fluff, Non-Actions, and Character Building Support the conversion of the Bironian Crossroads (R17) and Kinella (R14) to Fascination Rofl'Biron returns successful from the conquest of Kinella, serving the people of the Bulwark a taste of victory over their stellar rivals and vengeance for the beloved Shi Lithium. Though they lack the Sword of Revolutions as their were initially urged to find, the Chairman and the Council of Knights recognize that finding a single blade in a battlefield after Yanji inevitably fled a second time with it would be nothing short of impossible. The ascension ceremony has received a few modifications due to the Archknight losing executive power over the Crosspaths and the decay of Knightly Traditions over the last decade, instead taking up elements of Fate's Fascination melded with the personal excellence pushed by Soul's Expression. The new Archknight must swear to remain loyal to the interests of the Council that advises him, to see honor and glory brought to the Bulwark, to hone his combat skills as a symbol of personal excellence, and to become the 'Sword of Fate'. The procession finishes with a classic knightly chant, and then a decree from the new 'Fate-reader' that has captivated the people over these last few years: "The Sword of Fate must take actions that pushes the solar system towards becoming its best. At times these actions will be uncomfortable - we must remember that we have placed our trust in Rofl'biron, who has ascended according to the traditions of old and at the behest of our most loyal men." ...The Fate-reader spends quite some time with Rofl'Biron and the Chairman in the coming years, attempting to convince each of them of the majesty that the randomness of the universe possesses - that this unknowable fate is the key to manifesting the reality they desire, and that by honing themselves they can position themselves at their best state to take advantage of the opportunities that the world may grant. Because this cult was initially seeded by Yanji, the Chairman keeps his distance and attempts to block Fascination from gaining official place in government, but his efforts have begun to decay now that the faith has gained so much momentum... Rofl'Biron must, as Archknight, select several members to aid in his rule of the Knightly Orders. First, as all members of the council must, he selects a priest to provide counsel. This priest may be of any faith, but is traditionally a scribe from the Chivalric Orders. Currently, priests of Fascination are becoming more prominent instead... Second, he requires an administrative advisor for the purpose of running his newly granted fleet of ships that doubles as his estate (once owned by Shi Lithium) and legalizing decrees over the Orders. Before the civil war this role was expanded to aid in governing the realm, but this is no longer necessary. Finally, he must choose a regent to reign in the event that he becomes unable. Long live the new Archknight! Further from the high politics of Chairmen and Archknights, the lay people have enjoyed the end of Serfdom in the Crosspaths thanks to the efforts of the Neon Syndicate. No matter what the actions against internal dissent may look like, the fact is that people are freer and often happier than before. Though many mourn the loss of their old culture and traditions, the beginning of industrialization and cross-orbital trade bring the common man goods and wealth that he had never dreamed of before. The dream of earning these through righteous combat is still extremely popular, but has taken a twist with the rise of Fascination to be a warrior fighting to bring Karma to the deserving and freedom to those denied their fates instead of the coin and honor that was the root of the Chivalric traditions before. Most prominent among these new knightly chapters is the 'Iridium Order,' a group of once minor knights from the inner Flagstone that have seized the contracts dropped by the orders that died in the civil war. Preparing for the war before tensions died down: As the Black Cloud Coalition marches against their foes, the peace among the elect in Badal is once again shattered with the Bulwark at the center of it. The factions that are warred against were well-liked among the people for their honorable diplomacy, though the rapid expansions do tend to scare others. An officer from among the Syndicate that has run mercenary work among the Utopians has the audacity to openly defy the anti-slavery mission, claiming that showing themselves on the same side as Coedd against foes who have not even partaken in the practices they wish to denounce has demonstrated how lost the new rule has become. Once his statement has been broadcast, it takes under ten minutes for the defecting fleet he represents to be destroyed by orbital defenses before it can seek out Yanji and pledge themselves to him. With another traitor eliminated, the Chairman assures the people that this deeply treasonous statement undermines the pillar of cultural acceptance and freedom that the new republic stands for. Worse - failing to do your duty for liberty and justice in the solar system disgraces the soul as it denies the oppressed their fate. Let those loyal stand and fight against slavers and evil in all lands - arm your knights and prepare for conflict! Chairman AlchireHe wore a clean set of armor, whose interlocking black and white plates, whose texture resembled hardened glass, were highlighted by hints of neon pink beneath. No doubt this was skin, which was apparent enough that he was clearly the same size and shape as a human, though the sawed off horns protruding from his head and that hue of pink suggested that was not the case. Long black hair falls from the back of his helm, which otherwise covered the face. (He/Him) Diplomacy: 4 Military: 2 Economy: 8 Faith: 2 Intrigue: 5 Unit Cap: 3/7 Ground Units: 1 Space Units: 2 Capital: The Bironian Crosspaths (R17) Regions: Kinella (R14) Treasure: 5

The Bironian Bulwark Actions [Economy] Purchase Noble Metals TP3 in the Bironian Crossroads (R17)! (Pass) [Economy] Purchase Eskor's Eskorian Orchards TP1 (R30)! (Fail) [Military] Invade Region 14! Send 1 Ground unit and 2 space units to attack. Aided by the Glix Commonwealth! Leadership and tactics are deferred to them, but BIR will take the region on a victory. Chairman Alchire commands the space front (mil 2) Rofl'hesk will prove herself worthy of the title Archknight where Shi Lithium had failed. Again the Bulwark rallies against the Satrap Qil'un of R14, and this time they cannot rely on Yanji's influence and knowledge of the Bulwark's weak points with the bulk of their forces being Glix. [Economy] Purchase R14 TP1, Paradise Builders! (Fail) The dominance over the enemy lands must be assured, through economic power as much as military! [Economy] Purchase Eskor's Eskorian Orchards TP2 (R30)! (Pass) Fluff, Non-Actions, and Character Building Support the conversion of the Bironian Crossroads (R17) to Fascination Disaster strikes as the Bulwark strikes out towards the largest military power in their region, foolishly seeking a fight 'equal' to themselves. Shi Lithium has died, and the Sword of Revolutions has been lost. With it, the mandate of the old rule has been unshakably ruptured, and the Neon Syndicate's position that the Archknight system is outdated and weak seems more true than ever to the bulk of the populace. The last ruling line was expelled by internal revolution, and now the greatest warrior of the Crossroads has been slain in her first conquest? This crisis of confidence has brought the Knightly Orders to a drastic place to secure relevance... The Glix champion Rofl'hesk, the sole victor over Shi Lithium in the grand tournament hosted by the Bironian's new Liege, the Black Cloud Coalition receives an exclusive offer... Avenge the Archknight with the Bironian forces in R14, reclaim the Sword of Revolutions, and become the first outsider in history to hold the title of Archknight, the leader of the Knightly Orders and admired by all warriors to be. With this he may secure his dynasty as the co-rulers of the Crossroads, and influence the course of history as few so rarely do. The Bironians fail to consider the ramifications of placing a foreign member so high in their command structure, though, allowing tradition and honour to outdo common sense. This challenge goes the other way as well. If the Satrap Qil’un succeeds a second time against the invasion, then the rights will instead go to him. This decision, however, outrages the Chairman. An ally of Yanji's reclaiming the position of Archknight would be ludicrous, and lead the people of the Bulwark into a civil war for a second time. Stability must come first, and he declares Qil'un an enemy of the state for cooperating with their ex-leader on the run. He would rather purge the Knightly Orders in full than see this come to pass. With the fall of Shi Lithium, every single civil war leader from the last decade is dead or missing. The direction and cohesion of the Bulwark is at an all time low, but Chairman Alchire is determined to bring prosperity to his people alongside their new allies. He just needs time, but if the lifespans of the other Bulwark leaders are anything to go by... Chairman AlchireHe wore a clean set of armor, whose interlocking black and white plates, whose texture resembled hardened glass, were highlighted by hints of neon pink beneath. No doubt this was skin, which was apparent enough that he was clearly the same size and shape as a human, though the sawed off horns protruding from his head and that hue of pink suggested that was not the case. Long black hair falls from the back of his helm, which otherwise covered the face. (He/Him) Diplomacy: 4 Military: 2 Economy: 6 Faith: 2 Intrigue: 5 Unit Cap: 3/6 Income: +0 Ground Units: 1 Space Units: 2 Capital: The Bironian Crosspaths (R17) Treasure: 3 + 0 per round EMP: 0 rep / 0 favors WTU: 0 rep / 0 favors BRG: 0 rep / 0 favors REN: rank 0

OOC: I have been moving this week and unable to write, very sorry! I will be making Shi Lithium's rolls in this post to at least not hold us up there. Knightly Duel: Shi Lithium is legendary for her knightly duels, the mode of fighting which had determined her ruler of the Bulwark in Yanji's absence. Typically, she fights with two blades, but has adapted to a sword and dagger style since coming to possess the Sword of Revolutions. Her style is to study her foes, and then come upon them with blinding speed and overwhelming strength. Her physical attributes are considerably higher than most would consider possible for a Bironian, given their typically weaker physiology even accounting for what the strongest noble concoctions can grant to a fighter without them suffering from overdose. There have been whispers that she's either a half-breed or uses a new type of concoction that grants her additional attributes, but none of these whispers have any proof to back them. She claims it's all in the training, which can be enhanced by the right concoctions for Bironians... In any case, she has won hundreds of knightly duels in the past. Defeating her here will be no small accomplishment, and one that will likely earn the awe of many Bironians. Pirate Brawl: Staying defensive and watching her foes does not work well in a crowded environment where quick thinking is needed. Thrown out of her element, Shi Lithium scrambles to acquire a weapon she's familiar with and put up against her foe. Her masterful techniques with traditional weaponry only come up randomly during these fights, in case something she grabs is capable - and so she ends up relying on her raw strength and stamina to try and overwhelm her opponents. Caged Streetfight: Oh, but this is the fun one. Taking her techniques from her knightly duels and enhancing them with a collection of alchemical concoctions she breathes in through her mask and the noble gas tanks on her back, she can switch from defensive augments to offensive ones, or one of many other sorts just by choosing how she breathes. Opponents here can expect a master duelist who adapted to everything they do almost instantly (so long as she is aware that it is happening), but it's worth noting that the concoctions do have limits on the augments they can provide. One can only become so strong or so fast. --- Results: Vs Console Prisca: Duel (L), Brawl (W), Streetfight (W) - Net Result: Victory Vs Sydney Xia Emery Harper: Duel (W), Brawl (W), Streetfight (L) - Net Result: Victory Vs Monite: Duel (W), Brawl (L), Streetfight (W) - Net Result: Victory Vs Rofl'hesk: Duel (L), Brawl (L), Streetfight (W) - Net Result: LOSS Vs Cyberduelist Duan Li: Duel (W), Brawl (T), Streetfight (W) - Net Result: Victory Vs Artavasdes II: Duel (L), Brawl (W), Streetfight (W) - Net Result: Victory Vs Eighbris: Duel (W), Brawl (W), Streetfight (W) - Net Result: Victory

After spending some time in the embassy, Chairman AlchireHe wore a clean set of armor, whose interlocking black and white plates, whose texture resembled hardened glass, were highlighted by hints of neon pink beneath. No doubt this was skin, which was apparent enough that he was clearly the same size and shape as a human, though the sawed off horns protruding from his head and that hue of pink suggested that was not the case. Long black hair falls from the back of his helm, which otherwise covered the face. finally frees himself from the stricture of diplomacy and formal meetings. Though the Arkhive to his understanding was a popular and well-known faction from one of the other worlds, he didn't actually know much of anything about them. Something about honey and knowledge and hives? Suffice it to say, he didn't recognize their sigil from Pekoe the Orange or Slate Cinereal's garb. They weren't the huge fuzzy alien bees that came to mind, but people like everyone else. The armored man steps up to the younger of the two guests and gestures with his hand to catch their attention. "You two strike me as travelers - got any tales from the outer worlds? I'll trade you a drink for some tales. Haven't been able to sail the other skies in years." There's some longing in that last word, the adventurous mercenary having been trapped in civil war and statecraft for so many years now... Though the media might paint her that way, Shi LithiumDark blue skin, ram horns, and a long, thin blade that burns with crimson flame - the fabled Sword of Revolutions. This item is a renowned relic said to change the fates of the wielders, often to unpredictable ends. She wears very light armor, robe-like Bironian clothing that hides most of the skin, but leaves room for flexible movement. These 'battle-dresses' were designed for combat, offering only minor protections in the form of metal rings meant for catching blows intentionally. Her hair is silver, worn in a ponytail that falls just past her shoulderblade. was not all anger and violence. She was also the head of the house of Lithium, one of the oldest and most respected families in the Bironian Crossroads. Normally she would proudly represent her house in meetings with foreign nobles, extending her house's offer of mercenary service and making some friends abroad; but this time was different. This time she was fresh off the 'loss' of a civil war, in which she compromised her right to rule, now sharing it with a council. Though they'd been surprisingly agreeable thus far, she had no illusions that their priorities would remain aligned forever. This shaken confidence had no place in her approach, as the Archknight steps towards the well-armed company to greet them at some point before the tournament truly takes off. She has a small entourage of knights with her, adorned in heavier armor with various weapons of their own - but they stay far enough back. "Fine weapons you carry - I am looking forward to testing them in the ring. Which of you will be participating?" Shi required no introduction, as the namesake of the tournament she would be known by all attendees who had the influence to receive an invitation. "And forgive me if I'm mistaken - Caipe Ushere, right? We couldn't get any good wine during the civil war, actually. The poor Bironian fields barely provide during peacetime... If you have any in store, I'll take it easy on you during the fights." A cocky smile crosses her lips. Always a force to be reckoned with, Shi Lithium enters the tournament! Pirate Brawl: 5 (Intrigue) Knightly Duel: 10 (Custom ruleset) Caged Streetfight: 10 (Custom ruleset)

Prelude - The Neon Age (Who won the civil war? Who rules the Bulwark?) None expected the day where Bironians and the pirates of the coalition would walk freely among the other's territory. Not in a million years would the diehard fanatics and loyalists to the Argon dynasty have stepped foot on these lawless lands and not borne arms, intent on delivering order to their arch-enemies upon the horizon. Wasn't it foolish? Now that the Crossroads had been freed from their ancient, stagnant traditions of decentralized knightly orders in government, the impressive flow of trade had begun. Finally, an age of advancement - the first in five hundred years. No more Archknights, this was the dawn of the Bironian people's climb to the interplanetary stage where they belonged. After the dust had settled and the factions who were too stubborn to accept the future had been culled, nobody stood atop the wreckage. The leader of the Loyalists, the stubborn Yanji Argon, had vanished into thin air. The leader of the Sodium extremists had been taken in what could only be explained as a mysterious foreign intervention, and then the leader of the victors - Treasurer Boyin - had been felled by a coup. A failed coup, in that they never established control, but they certainly killed Boyin. That left him in command, the charming second in command that founded the Neon Syndicate with him. Admiral Alchire, who was said to be a knight disgraced. One wouldn't be able to tell from looking at him though, as the mysterious figure had maintained no small degree of anonymity among even his own people. He wore a clean set of armor, whose interlocking black and white plates, whose texture resembled hardened glass, were highlighted by hints of neon pink beneath. No doubt this was skin, which was apparent enough that he was clearly the same size and shape as a human, though the sawed off horns protruding from his head and that hue of pink suggested that was not the case. His face was covered, and long black hair falls from the back of his helm, which covered the face. "Welcome Chairman Alchire, hero of the People's Revolution of Biron and Kingpin of the Neon Syndicate." An automated voice coming from a robotic companion announced his presence, taking his seat at the embassy where he had promised to remain until the tournament was to be underway. Though the compromise with the House of Lithium had been made and allowed them to lead the army and keep their titles, he was for the fight time in an age the true leader of the Bulwark and there was a clear way to do business with them beyond making a deal with one among hundreds of minor knightly orders and the occasional noble house born from their legend. The Master Duelist - An Expression of Rage Countless ships marked with the sigils of knightly orders had docked among the green zones, and as many of their people walked now among the markets as the humans did. Bironians were distinct in that they used a concoction known a cocktail to alter the color of their skin and enhance the body, giving them unique talents in combat that the orders had used and passed on for generations. Some had horns, but all of them appeared closely enough to humans. Their culture of martial honor and competition could not have been better suited for a tournament such as this, and those that could not fight had been eager to help host. There were three venues for the dueling to take place, one in pirate style, run by the coalition, one in knightly style by the bulwark, and a third, more diverse set where all equipment was self-serve and no particular influence ruled the area. While the knights dueled among themselves though, a certain character had been quick to abandon them - having bested the leaders of all their orders at some point in her career. Shi Lithium was the rightful ruler of the Bulwark by the ways of old, if one were to disregard Yanji's claim. She took the mantle through martial prowess and proved in the civil war her ability to hold her own and negotiate with foreign powers. While others clung fast to ideals and let it blind them, she was purely pragmatic. Losing her throne for the stability of her world was a good thing - the war had already taken enough. This negotiated surrender allowed her to maintain their traditions and her influence on her world, but she never felt fully 'cool' about it, no matter her composed words. That's why it felt so good to let her mind go blank and do what she was best at: tearing up a battlefield. Dark blue skin, ram horns, and a long, thin blade that burned with a crimson flame when, the fabled Sword of Revolutions. Her movement was as a bullet: exacting and blindingly fast. Long had she abandoned the knightly duels for the free-form ones, taking on at present a team of three Sansari humans who charged at her with unified steps, one throwing a cloud of dust upon the ground in an attempt to blind their competition. As if with sixth sense, she cut off the first with a parry and a knee to the stomach, throwing him to the ground and stabbing the blade intentionally into the tip of his chest - stopping before it pierced to the heart, but deep enough to leave a wound. The other two fall as quickly, and she rises from her competition as the dust settles with unquenched anger in her eyes. "NEXT." She wears very light armor, robe-like Bironian clothing that hides most of the skin, but leaves room for flexible movement. These 'battle-dresses' were designed for combat, offering only minor protections in the form of metal rings meant for catching blows intentionally. Her hair is silver, and drenched with sweat. She must have been in and out of the combat rings for at least two hours, but the understanding was that fighting her here would count as a fight in the tournament... OOC: I have run out of time to write for tonight but may interact with and seek out specific players soon!

What about spending treasure on the battle as a whole? Perhaps that would count?

The Bironian Bulwark Actions [Economy 5] Trade Route with the Black Cloud Coalition: The Neon Transitway After the dust settles, the financially motivated Neon Syndicate melds into the government of the Bulwark. In charge of trade and foreign policy, they are eager to reward the allies that helped them reach their hard-fought victory. So begins the Neon Transitway, a project to unite the economies of the two budding powers in a way that few other lands have been before - especially not for a power such as the Bironian Crossroads, who have such an undiversified economy. Trade ships and companies from the Black Cloud Coalition are given a specific type of passport that allows them to transport a great variety and quantity of goods past Bironian security, which had previously been especially tight against their rivals. Even restricted military goods are now allowed to flow the other way in their direction, including the coveted noble metals. Those who cling to the knightly codes cringe at the arrival of this day, but as the wealth starts to accumulate for the Bironian people and life among the Crossroads becomes less steeped in systemic poverty opinion turns the other way. Glory to the Neon Syndicate and the Black Cloud Coalition, the bringers of freedom and prosperity! [Economy] Purchase Eskor's Eskorian Orchards TP1 (R30) It is known that the Knights of the Bironian Crosspaths do not sow seeds. Through mercenary contracts made to the locals and some foreign investment, the newly appointed Chairman is intent on preventing his people's focus on warfare from allowing them to starve to death. -1 To roll from orbital penalty, negated by spending 1 treasure! Despite the best efforts of the Bulwark, it seems that the flow of goods does not move to the crossroads. (Roll Failed) [Military] Invade Region 14! Send 3 Ground units and 2 space units to attack. Shi Lithium takes the ground front and the region on victory (Score 9, Tac doc: Overwhelming Tempo, artifact: +2 to leader losses for self) Chairman Alchire commands the space front (mil 2) Use one treasure for a +1 to battle With the civil war in the Crossroads abated, the militant forces of the Bulwark suddenly have no enemies to point their blades at. Aiming to keep the militant among his people occupied as to prevent them from causing strife within, the Chairman does an assessment of the aerostats of Badal and finds that without exception, every single region has been laid claim to by some faction or another. Despite lack of actual power in several of the regions, any move would be considered contesting another faction's territorial claim. Hoping to keep the nation in her neighbors' good graces for the stabilization period, the imperial embassy is selected as the destination for the Bulwark's attack. Is it not laughable that the embassy to their Empire is not ruled by one of the elect? By omission of the Emperor's Legitimization, Chairman Alchire declares, they have been chosen as unworthy to rule their aerostat. Let the battle begin. [Diplomacy] Aid the Black Cloud Coalition in Construction a WTU base in the North Way Cluster! [Diplomacy] Increase Reputation with the Emperor! Success! (+1 to the roll from Imperial Decree) 2 Treasure Spent this turn! 0 Treasure Generated! Fluff, Non-Actions, and Character Building NON ACTIONS Allow the WTU to inspect the working conditions in the Crossroads. The Bironian Civil War has ended! With the Neon Syndicate claiming victory over the Loyalists and the Order of Sodium thanks to the Black Cloud Coalition's backing, the matter of rulership should be simple. ...However, it is not. The Kingpin of the Syndicate has been murdered by his associates, leaving nobody in charge when it comes time to make the final compromise with House Lithium, who still holds the throne and the right to rule it by the old ways. Yanji and Admiral Kazi may yet live on some unknown worlds, but they cannot press their claims with their armies in shambles and the Coalition Fleet hovering over his skies. With the requirement for leadership at this time of paramount importance, the kingmakers in the Coalition get to hand-select a certain character for rulership, though he may not inspire quite as much confidence as the previous leader did. Chairman Alchire has been a mercenary and a former knight of the Crossroads, experienced in the matters of stewardship that kept the mercenary company in business. The compromise comes to the following conclusion: The Bulwark will be ruled in three parts, with the Chairman of the Neon Syndicate functioning as the official head of state. The other two parts are the provincial councils, dictating local budgeting and direction, while the old Archknight and her circle of nobles keep the military and judiciary roles that they have always represented in Bironian culture. Shi Lithium finds the Coalition leader Jie and her representatives to be surprisingly agreeable, and thanks to their attitudes of placing peace and stability as the foremost priority she comes away from it more pleased than she expected to. It is still humiliating to have much of her power as would-be head of state stripped, but not demanding the destruction of their culture or her house's personal estates paint things as less of a personal failure. The Knightly Orders will endure, and this war will be over before the Crossroads become impossible to pull from their cycle of instability. Chairman AlchireHe wore a clean set of armor, whose interlocking black and white plates, whose texture resembled hardened glass, were highlighted by hints of neon pink beneath. No doubt this was skin, which was apparent enough that he was clearly the same size and shape as a human, though the sawed off horns protruding from his head and that hue of pink suggested that was not the case. Long black hair falls from the back of his helm, which otherwise covered the face. (He/Him) Diplomacy: 3 Military: 2 Economy: 5 Faith: 2 Intrigue: 5 Unit Cap: 5/6 Income: +0 Ground Units: 3 Space Units: 2 Capital: The Bironian Crosspaths (R17) Treasure: 5 + 0 per round EMP: 0 rep / 0 favors WTU: 0 rep / 0 favors BRG: 0 rep / 0 favors REN: rank 0