Village Warriors II: War Captains (IC Thread)

[Jagged]

I have given you all material to start with so we can begin posting turns here....use the other thread for questions updates and new player/writers who are always welcome to join to sign up.

 

[rengadeirishman]

Another Uru fell, his life seeping into the moor. Conan turned and ran another through with his mighty spear, chopping the last down with his sword. The Uru had broken, and the remnant fled the field.

The Imperial Governor had been gone for scant days, and already trouble was brewing. Clan Uru had risen up and made war upon the Warchief, and had forged an alliance with Clan Tau. A roar went up from the lines of the Rau, another victory was their's. Fergo drove the Warchiefs chariot up to him and he mounted up, directing the charioteer to take him back to camp.

"If only Fergo, If i could unite the clans, such a force we could raise. We would be invincible, But instead we squabble among ourselves, clan against clan, when an Empire could be ours!" Warchief Conan Rau said, his voice a roar.

"We will warchief, you shall see." Fergo said as they approached the camp.

"I hope you are right."

 

[Jagged]

The bustle of activity in the hallway outside her sleeping chamber woke Melissa from her bed. She yawned hugely and slowly sat up. She found Abdul-Warith, her guardian eunuch already waiting patiently. "Salaam," she greeted him lazily.

She sighed as Abdul-Warith chivvied her out of her comfortable bed to breakfast on dates and coffee. When it she had eaten, she was bathed and perfumed, her hair brushed out.

She dressed and went to the small garden that was effectively neutral ground in the harem. After a few moments, Abdul-Malik, the chief eunuch entered the garden. He came over to sit with her.

Spy

"Malik," she murmured to him. "If I'm to protect myself, I must know what the others are up to. Please keep me informed if my father's wives, or his other children, get up to anything that could put our position here in danger."

Abdul-Malik, the heavyset man who commanded the palace servants and the harem, grunted an affirmative and patted her hand before leaving.

Train

After Abdul-Malik left, Melissa set Abdul-Warith to send a message to Zaim, the captain of the mamelukes who guarded the palace. Unknownest to most of the women in the harem, she and Zaim had known each other as children, before she had ever come to be acknowledged as her father's child.

Melissa donned a soft blue veil that covered her face and rose, padding to a quiet sitting room. Zaim, of course, would not be allowed in the harem and propiety insisted she stay within. The sitting room would be a compromise, chaperoned by her eunuch of course.

When Zaim came, Melissa had tea waiting. They sipped the tea quietly and Melissa leaned over to whisper in his ear. "Zaim, I must have the loyalty of the mamelukes. The others have alliances and noble families, but if I have the army, they will not be quick to move against me."

Zaim nodded. His position as Captain allowed him to heavily influence the mamelukes, and through them the asshuri.

Abdul-Warith came forward with a small chest, setting it down. Melissa smiled at Zaim, resting her hand briefly on his wrist, then withdrawing it when Abdul-Warith frowned. "Take this chest and give these shekels to the mamelukes and the officers of the asshuri. Tell them to inform their men of my generosity and to train hard so they can protect our island from those who threaten it."

Diplomacy

After Zaim had left, Melissa send Abdul-Warith to carry a brief letter of greetings to Lord Oengus, the imperial governor. She invited the governor to call on her.

Build

Lastly, Melissa met with the powerful iman Farraz. The holy man was a wild bearded man with a fierce stare. He began with a heated lecture on morality. Melissa sat through it, nodding demurely when appropriate.

"Revered Teacher," she murmured to him in a soft voice. "I respect your wisdom and wish I could help share it with all our people. Too long have the Imperials false Gods been celebrated here on Dar El Ma'a. I know if my father was healthy, he would wish for you to build a church here in Illafualla to spread the word of the One God. In his sickness, it falls to me, as his dutiful daughter to do the same."

Melissa donated another small chest of coins to the Iman to get started. Hopefully, her gesture of piety would appeal to the religious conservatives of Dar El Ma'a. Their support could make all the difference in the days to come.


*****************************************************************
Sindri returns the loss of his army he finds himself with a great many ships plague and pestilance must be purged from his land. The land the people the animals are dying in increasing numbers. Slaves are taken in increasing numbers from the neighboring tribes and old slaves bonds man granted there freedom. The only hope s tro continue the infusion creat colonies expand or die.


Colonization/Exploration

Half the horses die and are slaughtered for meat to feed the famished crew and colonist keeping the home island secret. Remains of a seasonal fishing village are found along with massed graves. On the beach skeletons are found with long slashing swords and small needle thin daggers. “damn another pirate attack” the Kofu a pirate race that lived on an off the sea a race of pillagers and rapist. Sindri sent out a search party and found smoked fish his men ate something with there tough biscuits and cheese.


Building

A small moat and bailey is built on the largest hill over looking the village which must be destroyed to avoid infection. Logs are dragged from the water and dried these are used to make on a wall around the camp. Lumber is drawn from the hulls of the ship along with field stones to make cabins. A monument is raised to the gods tribute is placed at the feat of the god. No docks are built the lightened ships are dragged onto the beach the forest burned back for defense.


Science

Spear guns and a compass are found the possibilities for both war and exploration endear the leader. Literate elders and members of the merchant class hoshu a yellow skinned slave and literate man is set in charge under supervision. The hope is of navigation not reliant on the stars that need night and clear weather. Hunting on land and in water would be safer and larger game could be taken. The fishing island and home island lack the materials for the compass. It must have been bought or stolen else were and brought to the village.


Diplomacy

Letters are sent to the merchant guild at a neighboring island controlling trade the guild is ruled by an ancient but related family. Blood and money ties have kept sindri‘s and the other house close. Proposals of a blood alliance strengthen ties have now been made by the merchant house. The trade house has large ship but few warriors the mercenaries they rely on have moved south or been pushed. Pirates take more and more ships for slaves and so they have come to sindri for help.
__________________

 

[Jedi_Khan]

Lord Mitsurugi goes to the Imperial Governor

It was a clear, cool evening in Ichirou as Lord Mitsurugi walked the streets. He had been asked to meet with the local Imperial governor, a noble by the name of Conmac. But this meeting was not what was on Mitsurugi’s mind. No, there were other things on his mind, such as the recent raids on outlying farms by renegade Imperials and the rumors of scout ships belonging to another Asian power being sighted off the coast, some 5 miles down river from Ichirou.

A tapping sound punctuated the cool evening air as Mitsurugi walked along. That sound came from his cane tapping the ground. Mitsurugi had received a hip injury a few months ago that would prevent him from ever fighting as well as he had before. He was accompanied on this walk by two samurai, who followed about a pace behind him on either side.

It was not a long walk from Mitsurugi’s ancestral home, the manor of his family, to the Imperial fort where the governor stayed; only a mile across the harbor. Walking at a leisurely pace, and occasionally stopping to talk to some of Mitsurugi’s people, it only took him about half an hour to reach the gates of the Imperial fort. Upon arriving at the gates, Mitsurugi’s mind was brought back to the task at hand. He didn’t trust this Imperial governor very much; only enough to meet the man, but not enough to meet on the man’s territory where it would be easy to trap Mitsurugi. Like all samurai, Mitsurugi carried two swords with him, one full-length katana, and a shorter one as well. While he knew how to use both blades with extreme skill, due to his hip wound he would never again reach that level.

Mitsurugi announced himself as Lord Mitsurugi of Ichirou and was led, along with the two samurai escorting him, to the gardens where he was to meet the governor.

 

[Mantra]

Rome-The Homecoming

Role Play:

Home. Romulas was finally home. He did not smile at the sight of the city he had grown up in, even though he was happy to see home again. Romulas seldom smiled, three years of hell had battered that particular trait out of him. No, the Titan of the Tenth was stone cold and as grim as the death he had cheated time and time again. Still, even as happy as he was to be home, he did not like what he saw.

It was the dead of the night but he did not react as two other men, dressed as he was and equally as grim, came up from the landing boat and stepped to his side. Meridius and Severus had stayed true to him for the entire three years of the campaign through every battle. They were both his Centurions, his First Spears and the best of his officers.

"A warm welcome." Severus said, sarcasm dripping from his voice. "Nearly as cheery and warm as when were were sent off."

"There was a Priest in command of our departure." Romulas commented. "We were heroes and champions then, with the Priest dead and us returning home without an Imperial directive, we have abandoned our posts and failed our quest."

They said nothing but Romulas felt their ire at being thought of as 'failures'. That was good, Romulas shared that revusion. "It will take hours to unload everyone and everything from the ships. Make sure that these pirates do not take advantage of our departure. In fact, I might have some business to talk with them about later. Stick with the plan, I will be heading into the city to see what is going on and report back later."
The two saluted and turned back to the boats, overseeing the landing of what remained of the Tenth Legion.

A few hours later found Romulas reaquainting with his family, his father, Lucidius and his younger brother and sister, Marius and Nera. His brother had only been 18 and his sister 16 when Romulas left, but both had grown, his brother having taken his own place as a Legoinare, but not having been snatched up by the imperium yet. His sister was being pressured to join the brothels, forcing his father to pay more and more Imperial taxes. They talked ling into the night until Romulas finally asked what had happened in the city recently.

"Krom." was all his father said with a snarl. "The damnable, twice-cursed priests made an 'example' of a protest against their taxes. The people resent the looting of Aventine to pay for an army, not sent to protect our island and the abuse of our women. Such things are not right and not just."

"No father." Romulas agreed. "They are not."
************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

It was two hours until dawn when Roumulas rode up to the temple of Krom. Having returned as proper, he was required to report the the Governor-Priest of the Imperium for reassignment. He dismounted and started up the long flight of stairs. Behind him were three fellow legoinares and the Aquifier, the standard bearer of the Legoin, holding proudly the eagle topped Aquilla, the battle standard of Rome. Below, his remaining cavalry made their way around the temple.
He entered the central foyer, a huge marble entryway where worshippers would meet before entering the temple itself.

"One would think that you might have the sense to come in the daylight." came a grumbling voice, heavy with sleep. The Governor was a middle aged priest, wearing the garb of a high priest of the Imperium, although it looked rumpled, having been put on in haste.

"Forgive Lord Governor, but not even the Imperium can command the tides." Romulas replied. "The Tenth has returned to serve the Empire."

"Hmm, yes. And where is your Legion, Tribune?"

"Most are returning to the barracks Lord governor, there are only some seven hundred remaining. I request permission to give them leave of absence and a holiday. Also, they are owed a deal of back pay Lord."

"Back pay? Tribune, do you forget the Empire's due? Did you bring back plunder and reward from your conquests? Pay your men with that after delivering our 10 percent."

"There is no gold, Lord. We made no conquests. Although we slaughtered many heathen savages, we could claim no land that we could hold against their hordes. What gold and ritches we had we were compelled to give to slavers and pirates in return for passage home."

The governor sniffed irritatedly. "No tribute, no conquests, no victory and dealing with pirates? Hardly a glorious return Tribune, er, whatever your name was. And why did you come home at all? I do not recall a request or order from Brother Panval, Tribune. Why have you abandoned your position?"

"Our position was untennable, ther was no resupply, no support nor any place to hold. If we would have stayed, we would have been destroyed. Brother Panval was dead Lord Governor, he could not order nor request anything. It was nessesary to withdraw or die."

"Hmm, having most of your men dead and returning in failure, you do not seem to have won any glory or fortune. Perhaps it would have been better had you made an honorable stand where you were. Did you at least bring back Brother Panval's body for proper burial?

"Brother Panval has been dead for nearly three years Governor."

The governor dismissed Romulas's words with a wave of his hand. That hand went to his mouth to stifle a yawn as he continued.
"So you admit that you returned without proper instructions, a defeated failure who deals with criminals and had led his men to death and darkness. Failed the Imperium and abandoned the safety of its citizens before the North Man barbarian horde. I am dissapointed with you, Tribune. Your failures are a blight upon all who suffer your presence. You are relieved of duty, pending investigation into your criminal act--"

The governor's words failed him as Romulas's gladius slapped into his belly with enough force to penitrate out his back. His eyes buldged, but he was held firm by Romulas's iron grip upon the weapon which held him up in turn. Behind him, the sound of a scuffle as his men quickly subdues those few souls who had the unfortunate task of tending to the temple so early in the morning.

"No." Came Romulas's smooth voice, tinged with anger. "You are relieved, of everything. My only mistake, Rome's only mistake, was ever agreeing to be subservient to a pack of bloated, unworthy hereitcs like the Imperium in the first place." He twisted the gladius, causing the governor to gasp. Blood leaked from between his lips and soaked the front of his robes but still Romulas held him.
"You nearly had to destroy us to best us, and many of you died to subjicate Rome. Now you are looking to destroy us again, all of us. Your precious, Imperium is a relic, a failure to those whom you claimed to lord over. You are a failure, You are a discrace."

Romulas tugged the gladius free and shoved the governor backwards, letting him fall. Romulas knelt down next to him, wiping the blade across the shoulder of his robe.
"And your time is over. Rome will be an empire again, and WE shall decide our own fate."

With that, Romulas stepped over him striding off deeper into the building, leaving the governor to die slowly on the floor of his own temple. Behind him, the Aquifier, stood at the very top of the stairway, waving teh Aquila back and forth high into the air.

War:

In accordance with the RP post, my legions will enter the city in groups, the 50 cavalry will take the temple while the bulk of my men , acting as the returning soldiers they are, move into the barracks, guard rooms, armories and palace, just like they belong there. All this will happen at night wnen the bulk of the city and the priests and guard are asleep and unawares. At the signal, in one fluid move, I should be able to usurp and overthrow the Imperium leadership and capture the great bulk of their soldiers. The few that don't will have no place to go, no supplies or support. I am also not above holding their families or lands hostage in order to force their surrender. Take as many captive as possible, I want them alive if possible.

Move quickly and consolidate power in the city before anyone even knows what the hell happened.

Diplomacy:

While on the ships and imeadiatly after, talk with as many of the pirate captains and sailors as possible, there is a position and use for ships and skilled seamen in the new Rome, past crimes might be forgiven and contracts offered if some are willing to remain.

Build:

My support crews and concubines will be organized into work parties to clean up the dead citizens littering the square outside of the city for proper burial. After that, they can bunk down in the city wherever thet can or set up a tent city just outside the walls. My engineers will look about the city to see what is in need of work or repair.

 

[rengadeirishman]

Conan had washed the blood and filth of battle and arrayed himself regally to meet with his commanders and diplomats. He had washed his torc and his hair and beard had been quickly taken out of their war braids and washed, restoring their blood red colour. On his hip sat his mighty war sword, and a clean kilt had been wrapped around him. A wolf and bear pelt mantle had been placed on his shoulders, fastened to a warm wool tunic, dyed a deep huntsmans green, with the bear head and wolf head placed one on each shoulder. On each forearm sat a magnificent silver bracer, etched with emerald eyed dragons. He sat on a throne of ancient oak, built to fit his massive frame as he took his visitors.

War
"Revered chieftain, the campaign goes well in the south. Your brother Vergetorix has won a mighty victory against the horselords of the southern plains, slaying their Khan in battle. He sends word that they have given him homage, and he sends their new Khan, Temur, to meet pay his homage to you."

"Mighty Lord, in the west victory has been secured against the coalition of Clan Pyct, and they come now to lay down their axes at your feet."

"Warchief, in the north your cousin Yalmer has been slain against the northmen. Clan Pyrik deserted the line and their Chieftain, who died alongside Yalmer. Your cousin Thalmer has assumed command, and says they recovered the bodies of Yalmer and Beryyk, the late chieftain of Pyrik, and drove back the northmen at great cost. He says they will retreat to Brolyk pass, where they can better defend the northern marches. Brolyk is dangerous close to the Blademarch, and he requests immediate reinforcements."

"Send word to Jarek in the west and Vergetorix in the south, instruct them to return to the Blademarch as soon as may be. In the meantime, send the Wolfbrothers and the Bearkin to aid Thalmer in the north, the war here is near finished, and as soon as victory is assured, i will attend to the North Men personally."

"As you wish Warchief."

Diplomacy

After his military advisors were dismissed one of his Thanes approached. "Conan, Bjarin Clan Soryn has come to meet with you."
"Send him."
Bjarin approached the throne and laid his sword on the ground.
"Warchief, Clan Soryn believes in your mission, and i have come as High Chief to swear our loyalty to you. Long have we loathed the Empire, and since the coward's retreat we sought to secure a place for our Clan in this new world. The blood of our people has been for far too long used to lubricate the war machine of a foreign empire. We long to be among those whose fire helps forge an empire for our people. I have brought the entirety of Soryn's full warriors with me, to be thrown into whatever battle you so choose, as proof of our loyalty to your cause and the cause of Barbaria."

Bjarin knelt and touched his forehead to the blade of his prone sword, holding his hand together above his head, his bodyguards doing likewise. Conan stepped down and clasped his hands around them,
"Your heart is true, and I have never been given cause to doubt the honour of Soryn. I accept your loyalty, and bid you rise as a Barbaroi ought." Conan said to each in turn. They rose.
"Give us a glorious battle, Warchief, that we may prove the mettle and honour of our clan."

"Go to Brolyk pass with all speed, and aid my cousin Thalmer against the hateful north men. He is sore pressed, and Pyrik has deserted."

"You Honour us Lord Rau."

"The honour is mine."

Build

"Ground has been broken for the library in Bharkad great chief, and scribes have finished compiling the Rau sagas, they are being illuminated and bound in eight volumes, and i am assured they will be a worthy centerpiece to your unprecedented construction. I am also told that work has begun on compiling "The Old Gods" since we have finally drawn out the shamans and druids from their long and secret hiding. I am assured that these works will show the Barbaroi people the propriety of the old ways, and drive out the foreign gods of the Empire."

Trade

"We have come to succesful terms with Trisin in the southeast, they will open their ports and gates to northern steel, wool, beef, and silver. In return they will send us pork, grains of all kinds, salt, and rakum root."

Train

"Young warriors have come from our allies in the east, and a fresh crop grows in Blademarch."


Tired from battle and administration, Conan take his rest.

 

[Jagged]

Arabs

The small garden is peaceful but you notice you are not alone as you talk to your trusted servant. Haleemah lays nude by the center pool and bakes in the son as her daughters tend to her bring her fruit and wine. Her eyes acknowledge you, but only for a moment before going back to gourging herself on breakfest.


Spying


Abdul-Malik doesn't speak to you for weeks following your meeting but one night as you walk in the garden he approaches you with news.

"All wives and several of the concubines have armed themselves or hired body guards. Many are seizing treasures around the palace and hiding them in different place so they will have funds if a crisis develops."

"Haleemah knows that she is the eldest and feels secure in her position and is trying to influence the army. She has support from some of the noble families."

"Rumors abound among the servants that care for Nadia. They say that she has hired Assassins to protect her son. Her and Prince Youssif share an unusally close relationship." He walks around and chooses his words. "it is known that they share a bed."

"Farrah has taken her two boys to receive receive Imperial warrior training. They are in the same group of young boys as the governor and other nobles. Ususally only Imperial citizens enjoy such a privilage."


Train

The war chest you provide for training is very helpful and you hear of better food and new weapons and the Army knows who it has come from.

Haleemah has gone to visit the troops several times and has spoken to them making it clear that she is the state.

Zaim sends you a interesting gift. You get a new and lovely prayer rug but when it is unrolled. Inside is a scroll and it tells you that most are willing to follow you if you make the following changes. Allow the troops to bring their women to camp and give them each a large hut or farm for a term of service. They also want general improvements and wonder what their role will be since they are no longer support troops for the Empire.

Build


Fawwaz the iman take your gold and says it is because god told you to not because you felt it should be done or your father. Still though you hear he has plans drawn up for a large church with several buildings and a library. He is asking for donations and is looking for land around the city that is fitting spiritually.

On the next holy day he condems the Sultan and the Empire in the same breath, but does tell of your donation which goes over well with the population. You also know he asked for money from the Brotherhood...A shadowy group of zealots that include both slave and noblemen. In the years since the Empire began loosing ground they have been very active mostly as assassins.



Other Items of note.

A troupe of belly dancers come to the palace seeking employment. The women are of several different nationalities and all can dance and play instruments. One beautiful brown skinned women named Aisha does the wing dance beautifully for your guards.

Kalimah finds a white skinned black haired Imperial child while out walking near the place not far from the body of a dead servant woman. The guards say the woman was beaten badly. Kalimah is very protective of her new little one and has locked herself in her room and guards the child day and night with a long curved knife. She calls the boy Aran and has found a servant to nurse him.

An Imperial grain ship has arrived in port but has not unloaded yet.

Another ship arrives but a silk merchant with his Imperial wife are not secretive at all and buy a spot in the market to sell their product. They have beautiful silks and fine wine they sell by the barrel. One barrel even arrives at the palace as a tribute to the ruler.

 

[Elayne]

After hearing the reports of Abdul-Malik and Zaim, Melissa realizes that her position is dangerous but has potential. She sits in the garden on the lip of the fountain, staring absently into the cool water as she contemplates her next maneuvers.

Spy

The first thing, she decides, is to ensure her own personal safety. "Abdul-Warith," she says to her personal eunuch. "I wish to improve the guard about myself. It is said that no one is better suited to catch a thief than another thief. I wish for you to discretely go amongst the people and find men who are... discreet. Men who can be my eyes, ears, and if necessary, my hands outside of the harem."

Melissa feels that to succeed, she must have reliable spies... or better yet, Hashassins.

Train

Looking over the prayer rug from Zaim and reading his message, Melissa retires to the daughter's quarters to work on embroidering a scarf. As she does so, she carefully slips a note into it and arranges for Warith to slip the scarf and note to Zaim.

"Zaim," she writes. "Henceforth, I will permit mamelukes and askari loyal to me to travel with their wives if they wish. Moreover, any mameluke who survives his service and retires shall be granted a farm and two hides of land to work. He shall be manumitted and be considered a free citizen as shall his children. I shall ask only that the mamelukes defend our island and our interests in trade across the seas, filling the vacuum left by the Imperials, a vacuum that currently threatens our peoples."

Melissa hopes that the appeal to their patriotism and righteousness will inspire the mamelukes, while her promise of better days will win their loyalty.

Build

While a Sultan's daughter is given a reasonable allowance, Melissa knows she must increase her personal supply of wealth if she is to compete with her father's wives.

She instructs Warith to visit Illafalluah, the city outside the Sultan's palace, looking for worthy businesses in which she can invest. She particularly wishes to invest in blacksmiths, horse breeders, and silk traders, possibly even hiring people to create new shops if her limited funds allow.

Trade

Melissa sends for Tamir, a man whom she had thought was her brother for most of her life, until her parentage was revealed. She meets with him in the sitting rooms of the palace to sip tea and discuss matters of trade. Primarily, she wants Tamir to keep her abreast of foreign affairs and trade with the other nearby islands.

Melissa also sets aside some funds to retain the services of the troop of belly dancers who sought out employment. She hopes to take a share of their profits in the short run and with luck, they might even pick up some useful information as well.

Diplomacy

In the afternoon, Melissa goes down to the garden to join Haleemah, the first wife of her father the Sultan. Slipping out of her white robe, the sign of an unwed woman, Melissa lies out on a dias in the garden, feeling the warmth of the sun on her bare back as she sips from a glass of wine and chats with Haleemah.

"Honored Mother," Melissa greets the older woman politely. They chat briefly, mostly small talk. Melissa makes a point of telling Haleemah. "Soldiers mostly obey their stomachs. There is an imperial grain ship in the harbour, loaded down and not unloaded. Why, I shudder to think what would happen to the imperial garrison if that shipment was damaged. Though I imagine our soldiers would delight at receiving more rations."

Melissa hopes to provoke Haleemah, a noted anti-imperialist, into using her sellswords to attack and possibly seize the ship.

After chatting with Haleemah, Melissa goes to the the small room where the wives and concubines exercise, meeting with Farrah, the second wife, who is her father's favorite. Melissa chats with Farrah for some time, saying "I fear for us, Honored Mother. Haleemah acts as if she's already the Sultana. Why she has even met with the askari and mamelukes to try to convince them. It's only a matter of time before she tries to remove her opponents. Why I heard she's even planning on attacking an imperial grain ship."

Hopefully, that will send a shiver of dread through Farrah. If Haleemah acts and seizes the imperial ship, it might even spark an outright confrontation between the two wives.

Roleplay

Melissa reclines on her soft divan in the concubine's dormitory. Though a daughter would normally sleep in the apartments of her mother, Melissa's mother had vanished years ago and none of the Sultan's current wives had extended the invitation to her. Thus, Melissa's bed was a soft mattress laid on the floor amongst the group of women bound in concubinage to the Sultan.

Abdul-Warith slips into the concubine's dormitory and greets her. "Princess," he says formally. "A merchant has come and wishes to speak to you."

Melissa raises a slender, dark eyebrow in interest. "Lead on, Warith," she says idolently, rising and following the plump man towards the sitting rooms.

"Greetings, Princess," the merchant says. Accompanied by his wife, it is clear that the man is an imperial.

"Salaam," Melissa murmurs with a small nod of her head. "What did you wish to speak with me about?"

"Princess, I am a merchant of cloth and wine but recently come to Dar El Ma'a," the merchant replies. "I had hoped to show you my silks so you could see the finest clothes in the Island."

Melissa laughed lightly, kneeling on one of the soft pillows. The merchant's slowly unfolded a changing screen and Melissa murmured, "Show me these silks, good merchant."

The merchant and his wife proceeded to show Melissa several bolts of fine silk in a number of colours. Periodically, his wife would slip behind the screen and change into some different style of outfit to model. "This style of cloth is very popular in the Empire now," the merchant remarked. "It would honor me to clothe a princess."

Laughing soflty, Melissa picked out two bolts of silk, one of the thinnest material in pale red, the other in darker blue, giving the merchants a few coins for their efforts before taking her leave.

 

[Jagged]

Sindri's People

Colonization/Exploration

The seasonal fishing village seems like it has been completely ravaged. Seems every fishermen had a The Large Hut and many have large sheds to store boats, and workshops. The hunting in the area (deer mostly) seems good and you find several herds grazing wildly so it is a matter of time to round up the cows. The pigs have been abandon long enough that they are wild now and acting like boars though. Sadly you do not find any people alive anyway. Most of the buildings are wrecked, but can be rebuilt with fresh timber and hard work.

You find several Kofu shrines with blood offerings to their sea god. Typically it is a wood chalice filled with blood surrounded by heads on pikes.


One building left relatively intact is a large long hut for building long whaling boats. None are left and there are only a few tools left. Most importantly there are many large trees not far away.

Building

You find you have more repair work then anything but the fishermen used small boats, but didn't have docks. For the large boats they rolled logs under them.

Science

Hoshu had built an impressive throwing harpoon which he says is both light and strong and can penetrate water. He proves it when he heads out in a small boat with two young Vikings and returns with a large swordfish with a harpoon in it's chest. He cooks it over a large bonfire and many are interested in getting the new weapon.

Diplomacy

You hear back from the merhcant's council and it is not what you hoped. They want you more established then you are now. If you have any hope of protecting them you first have to be able to protect yourself.

Other Events

A small group of three Asian Vessels come into view one day and come to trade. Normally they buy fish to resupply but they will gladly trade bolts of silk for repairs to their ships.

Wolves used to feasting on corpes of humans and animals in the village come dangerously close very often.

 

[Jagged]

Lord Mitsurugi

As you walk to meet the governor you think all that is well right now.

You have enough rice to provide for your house hold from your own supplies and you will have a surplus to provide for your military or trade.

Your defenses are in good repair and the military is will maintained.

Several of your barbarian guides have built The Fortified Farms outside the town and have taken local wives and have bought slaves. Many are already enjoying the hunting and fishing. You have received a battle axe as a gift to their lord. You haven't used one before but it is impressive.

A group of Monks came to you about constructing a new church for them to tend. If it was built they could recruit more members which means more loyal warriors besides the handful who live there now and a work shop to forge weapons that can be blessed.

Governor Conmac makes you an interesting proposal when you arrive. Not at first he offers simple things like promising not to collect taxes or fees from you, but it is clear to you he is not speaking from a place of strength. He says he wishes to become one of your lords. Naturally he will turn over some of the imperial property to you but he wants to keep a large share for himseld...and to provide for his people. He has three small but long range vessels and he says he will gladly turn over the best to you. He wishes to become a lord and pay taxes to you like the rest and promises payment in gold for at least the first few years. He asks what your terms are....?

 

[Jedi_Khan]

Lord Mitsurugi

Mitsurugi knelt quietly before the shrine to his ancestors, thoughts of his duties as Lord of Ichirou dominating his thoughts, but as always, in the back of his thoughts was his ill father, who lay three doors down, on his death bed. It was only a matter of time before Mitsurugi’s father joined his honored ancestors. Mitsurugi’s younger sister, Kaoru, was doing her best to ensure their father’s last moments were comfortable.

Diplomacy:
The Imperial ambassador (formally the Imperial governor) had expressed his desire to become one of Mitsurugi’s lords, or Shoguns. He had promised to pay taxes in gold and to hand over some of his Imperial holdings. In exchange, he wanted to know what Mitsurugi’s terms were. Mitsurugi had told him that the terms were as follows:

1. He was to do what he could to control the renegade Imperials that were raiding outlying villages and farms;
2. To determine the accuracy of the rumors of ships belonging to another Asian power being spotted offshore, some five miles down river;
3. To hand over any and all documents pertaining to Imperial activities within his territory (essentially, within anything he had power over as the Imperial governor; this includes navigational charts, maps, etc.);
4. To attend the monthly meeting of the Council of Shoguns and to report on his activities and duties as a Shogun;
5. To protect and serve Ichirou and Mitsurugi when called upon.

Those are the terms as stipulated by Lord Mitsurugi.

Building:
A group of monks had come to Mitsurugi asking for permission and funds to construct a new church for them to tend. Before Mitsurugi made his decision he had inquired as to the nature of religion they served. If it was the religion of the Empire, he directed them to the former governor. If it was an Asian religion, not of the Empire, he gave permission to construct the church and provided a sum of 250 gold pieces to fund the construction.

Training and Defense:
To aid in the defense of outlying farms and villages, Mitsurugi has sent one samurai, with their escorts, to each village. There they are to improve the defenses of the villages and to further train the citizens. They are also to serve as the local authorities and mayors, if the villages do not already have such. In the cases where a Shogun lives in the village, the samurai are to report to him, and assist the Shogun in the affairs of his village. The samurai are to also report on the actions of the Shogun and have the authority to intervene in any illicit activities the Shogun maybe involved in. This intervention includes stopping the illicit activities, collecting evidence to prove the Shogun’s involvement, and to arrest the Shogun provided enough evidence.

In total, 25 samurai are sent out to the villages, five of them going to villages where Shoguns reside.

Other Actions:
For the barbarians who had given Mitsurugi the battle axe as a gift from their lord, Mitsurugi gave a finely crafted katana and shoto set in return.

End of turn

 

[Jagged]

Why I have been away

OOC I know you all have experienced delays and some of you are mad...understably so and I want to say I am sorry. That being said that isn't enough so I will tell you why I have been busy. I have had a long search but have finally found a nice place I can afford and I am closing on it tomorrow. After that I think I will have more time again...or at the very least a weight will have been lifted. In any even I will have some free time as I am moving and restablishing my home base. Thanks to all of you for being dedicated...there are more great things to come shortly


be well all of you

 

[Jagged]

The Roman Lord Returns Home....and Hell comes with him

"I have a high art, I hurt with cruelty those who would damage me." - Archilocus, 650 B.C.


It is good to be back on the Fortified Farm farm but it only reminds you of imperial repression. Your father's fields would yield a high profit if they were not taxed so heavily. The imperials have hit your area hard with imperial drafts, but as your mother fills your bowl with soup she smiles at you and tells you she doesn't mind doing the farm work with your father and the help your father can hire.

Marius and Nera are happy to see you and both have so much to tell you of their lives. Marius has built a large hut there and has space to train and farm. He wishes you to meet his new wife Moira.

He jokes with you and pushes you..."I have her a fat belly brother." You mother just sighs.

"Talk to your brother they aren't married, she isn't a citizen, and oh she still works the farm. Oh never mind she is a Pagan." She pushes your brother playfully.

"She was a server at a bar. And when he passed out she carried him back to the barracks and stayed the night." Your brother looks shocked.

"Mothers knows all...," She laughs and turns to you. "No war brides for you or even a companion?"

Nera is happy that big brother is home and tells you she had been busy with her studies and tends the family shrine to Juno and has setup a pottery work shop.

"Father wants me to marry but I am not ready...will you talk to him for me? Oh I know you are older but I kept your room like you left it. Oh and Philippis wishes to see you as soon as you can."

Philippis raised all three of the children in your household. A slave of Amazon stock she was given as a gift to your father many years back on a campaign. He treated her well and allowed her weapons and much freedom. Though he tried to free her she stayed out of loyalty to him. Since then she has taken a modest wage for care of the children and the horses. You have fond memories of all three of you wrestling with the strong woman, and you and your brother being chased by her for spying on her and a lover. She now lives not far from your brother and has a small herd of war/work horses. Though she sells to other she mostly takes care of your father's animals.

"She misses you brother. I even think she cried the day you left." That is saying something considering she didn't even cry when she was thrown from a horse.
*****************************************************************
War/Action Phase
Chosen son of the emipre, Venerated elder, Bureaucrat.....but he died like anyone else. And soon his red Krom robe is blood soaked for real.

Meridius and Severus and the rest of your men attack the palace silently and swiftly. The Imperial garrison rushes to meet the threat, but few waken in time. Many imperials only meet your men in nothing but a loin cloth.

The fighting is squick and brutal and you make show there experience. You are told of on legionaire who encounters five imperials by himself. First on dies from his javalin before he surged forward knocking another down and running him through with his short sword. He swiftly blocks the other three and stakes off the head of another stabs the forth driving the blade so deep he cannot pull it out. He turns to the last one who runs away and drops his shield and chases him down and pounces on him and strangles him and breaks his neck.

Meridius always the brute takes is battle ax to every imperial he can find and even beheads a horse as the ride comes after him.

Severus was a largely responsible for the quiet entry into the palace. With a face made black with soot he goes to work on the sentries with his thrown knives. he is also the one to go to the roof and change out the Imperial flag for the old Roman standard.

The cavalry join you at the temple and are soon fighting with the priests. The Long swords of Krom bang against the shorts swords and spears of Rome. Your men's experience is matched by the priest's fanaticism and the fighting on the temple's grounds is by far the most brutal The priests lack their famous red guards so they're better trained. Still though by the early light of dawn they all die. With men like that you don't take prisoners. Sadly 18 of your men are dead or wounded.

Diplomacy

On the far side of the temple grounds near the woods there is a large chapel two Luna with several other large huts. There a handful of priests hold your men at bay with knives and bows drawn and their war dogs growling at your men.

Echephyle the priestess stands at the head of the woman with her sandles foot on the throat of a wounded legionaire. She is in a short blue dress that barely covers her voluptous frame and she is in her wolf breast plate weilding a spear and a torch. when she see you she looks right at you.

"You Roman...we speak. I have children and sister to protect. I will die doing so but perhaps we talk...HHHmmmm..what says you? Most of the children have Roman fathers. Maybe even you? We talk?"


At some point during the day the pirates agree to meet with you...Well not exactly. The "fleet captain" in a flowing red bandana hang from the rigging and talks to you.

"Your offer is a tempting one sir...but the seas are rich with loot. We don't serve under another man. Perhap we will be back to sell but our business is done now. Good luck to you."


Building

Your people get to work burying the dead and exploring the battered city. Most people respond positively. Imperial citizens are caughtious though and hide in their homes. Some that have the means are preparing to leave in their own ships....some have already left. There are many abandon homes though where Roman families used to live, but were arrested and evicted.

There are some happy reunions though and even you run into a few childhood friends. You see a pair of elderly parents welcome home their son. A skinny good natured boy when he left he is a muscular scared and tattooed brute but they are still happy to see him and only see the boy that stabbed their scrare crow with a hunting spear.

Severus's two wives who are are both skilled with the spear and blade take a house for their husband near the palace. The own a die hard Imperial supporter finds his head on a spike in front of the house. He was a knife maker and has a well built and stocked shop. Severus is not sure whether to be happy or dismayed at his wives' behavior, but he listen's to his women and asks to move in.

 

[Tonofnoise]

Dear God Jagged.

Dear God Jagged, you have another one of these forums running. Well the sleeper has finally awoken. What villages do you have for me to lead.

In addition Mantra, I saw your name out there. I know your Roman, so I hope we could finally have our match.

 

[Mantra]

The Rebirth of Rome

Role Play:

With a quick, sweeping blow, Romulas parried the long sword, knocking it aside. Reversing his swing, the Tribune jabbed upwards, driving his gladius into the throat and under the chin of his opponent. The Krom heritic died in a frothing, fountain of blood as Romulas shoved him away to meet the next. For the better part of the night, the fight raged but in the end, the Tenth endured, just as it always had. At long last, the sounds of battle eased and those who still stood, each wore the proud breastplate of a Roman.

Romulas looked around, slowly circling as his eyes took in the sight of his bloodied and triumphant warriors. With a great, victorius snarl, Romulas lifted his bloody gladius high. All around him, his men roared their victory.

"Down Krom, UP MARS!"

"Down Krom, Up Mars!" shouted him men in unison.

"Now my brothers," Romulas called. "Find me the so-called leader of this pack of heritecs! Let him lie in his own blood next to his failure of a governor!"

His men again roared and began to sweep through the temple grounds. As the moved however, Romulas signaled to his ever loyal First Spears.

"The battle is not yet over. Meridius, take two cohorts to the waterfront. Seize the docks and wharf. Send one cohort to each village outside the city. Rout out any lurking Imperials and hold their boats for now. The villagers are not to be harmed, but martial law is now in effect. "

"Severus, take command here and the barracks. You know what to do. I shall meet you both at the Temple."

"Yes Tribune." they answered.

"Tribune?" Severus called. "There is a disturbance near the woods which may require your attention. A temple of Luna, the priestesses call for parley."

Romulas nodded, then retuned their salute, dismissing them both. Turning on his heel, Romulas headed immeadiatly towards the holdout temple. Even as he moved to reclaim his horse, Romulas's entourage, two centurions, his Aquifer, trumpeter and another two Legionares, imeadiatly fell in behind him, departing as he did.
They all came to the scene quickly where this blue dressed woman stood over one of his soldiers.

"You Roman...we speak. I have children and sister to protect. I will die doing so but perhaps we talk...HHHmmmm..what says you? Most of the children have Roman fathers. Maybe even you? We talk?"

Romulas did not hesitate, or even seem to acknowledge the danger. The Tribune nearly leapt off his horse and quickly strode, with long, powerful steps towards the woman. He did not remove his helmet, nor draw his weapon. He didn't need to and it would not accomplish what he wanted anyway. He ignored the sound of the bowstrings as they were pulled taut, paid no attention to the snarling, growling dogs behind the woman. He did not even acknowledge the wounded man at his feet.

"You will address me as either Tribune, or Sir." he said coldly. The woman was not afraid to die, that was good. But she and her like were not ready to die, not ready to sacrifice anything for victory. That gave the advantage to Romulas....and he knew it.
"Now what could you possibly have to say to me that is even worthy of my attention?"

War:

The ports, docks and warehouses will all be closed. All boats and ships will be seized as will their crews and cargos (if any). No one shall be allowed to leave the island or board any kind of boat. The island is to be locked down. The only exception shall be in pursuit of any fleeing Imperial citizens. No one may leave. All ships or boats belonging to any Impireal citizen will be seized by the State as well as any warehouses, stocks, supplies or merchandise. Dock workers, accountants, scribes and the like will inventory and sort what has been captured.
There should also likely be some shipping schedules and maybe some sea charts. If possible, I'd like to set a trap for any visiting ships. Act as business as usual, let the ship dock and move my workers to help unload the cargo. (or load if they are picking up) These will actually be seasoned Legionares, masquerading as harbormen. At the right moment, capture the ship and crew.

The Temple to Krom and the palace will be sacked and looted, but the buildings are not to be damaged. Every Priest of Krom and Imperial government high official will be put to death if they were not killed in the takeover, for 'High crimes against the Roman people.' all their lands, posessions and servants, everything, will be seized. Likewise will be everything owned by any Imperial soldier killed in the takeover, any Imperial citizen who fled the island or attempted to flee. Those soldiers who were wounded or captured will be allowed to retain their posessions for now. all captured soldiers and the wounded will be taken to the training grounds for now. Tents will be made available for them to live in while my soldiers take their rightful place in the garrison. All captured wealth will be taken to the treasury for sorting. Seized land and estates will be gifted to my loyal officers, the Centurians first, starting with Meridius and Severus. Afterwards, if there are any suitable shops or places for my retainers, like smithies, tanners, potters, etc, then they will be given to my entorage. Romulas will move into the palace along with his servants, entorage, three Asian concubines and his brother and sister if they wish to live there.

Diplomacy:

The pirates will be let go and encouraged to return if they have anything useful for trade or sale.

Meanwhile, Romulas will make a public appearance a few days after the takeover. The remains of the Imperial Governor as well as the High Priest of Krom will be hoisted up onto a crusafix for public display. The charges will be read to the masses, explaining that they were put to death for high crimes against the Roman people and betrayal of Rome itself.

Romulas will then pass new laws;
- All Imperium taxes and levies are abolished.
- All Romans arrested or tried for any crime against the Imperium will imeadiatly be pardoned.
- The act of taking Roman women as prostitutes will be abolished and all tax debts will be nulified.
- Any Roman citizen evicted by a member of the Imperium will imeadiatly be restored to their rightful property.
- Imperium legislatures, decrees, juristiction or demands are null and void.

My Asian women will take their places in the brothels and as attendants in the public bath houses or be sent to serve in the garrison, Centurion's estates or among my retainers.

That should win me a great deal of public support for now.

 

[Jagged]

Long Over Due Reply To the Barbarians

Mean while back at Blademarch home of the Rau Clan.....

Barbaria-large kingdom.

2000 Warriors. ("light" infantry, spears/axes/swords, shield, clothing.)

400 Thanes. ("heavy" infantry. Leather/hide/fur armour, torcs. better quality weapons and shields, more experienced.)

200 Chieftains ( "teh omfg wtfpWnsorz" better everything, often ride chariots or horses into battle. varied households, accompanied by honour guards)

10,000 peasants familes.
4000 middle class
16,000 slaves

advantages

Hale and Hardy- The Barbaroi live a very rough and tumble existence, in a wilderness on the edge of the world. Their land is cool and wet most of the time, hot and humid part of the time, and freezing and icy all the rest. It is a wild land filled with dangers. They are a physically large and very strong people.

Warlike- Barbaroi culture and life is centered around war. They fight constantly, from simple tumbles in the village square, to barroom brawls, to laying waste to everything they set their eyes on. This makes very tough and able combatants.

Religious War- The empire coveted the use of the Barbaroi hordes in battle, and taught them the Imperial Religion from an angle of glorious death in battle. This "live for the gods, die in battle" attitude is part of what makes the Barbaroi so ferocious and wild in combat.

Disadvantages

Fractious- The Barbaroi are far from a united people. There is never any guarantee that they will follow the Warchiefs orders, or even not turn around and attack him. Clan and tribal enmities run deep through generations of blood and revenge.

Technology- Although the Barbaroi make weapons exceptionally well, they are not a wealthy people, and so very few have metal armor, other then helmets, mostly limited to individual pieces (for example, they might own a pauldron and vambrace and would wear them) the wearing of which adds to their wild and chaotic appearance.

Imperial domination.- The empire was the only thing resembling law and order in Barbaria, and without it it falls to the Warchief to somehow forge a kingdom out of the fires of war. Without the guiding hand of the Empire, the barbaroi are even more contentious and difficult to govern, which has resulted in battles with North Men, lost that shouldnt have been.

Sailing- The barbaroi are very superstitious, an attitude which was fostered by the Empire, are deeply mistrustful of undertaking long sea voyages, although they do a lot of fishing off the coast.

Warchief Conan Rau

Fearing your people the Imperial governor and his household set sail one night and have not been scene since. Imperial troops have abandon the administration building and with their clergy are held up in the fort. There is also news that there is an Imperial fleet searching around to land and find a new home base.

(Update for me)



War....And the Aftermath

As you fight to secure your home island in the wake of the imperial pull.... Many are concern about the threat in their own backyard.

The governor of your area that was once Imperial terroritory has deserted his post with his household and as many troops as he could rally to his banner and escaped in the few remaining yachts and cargo ships to an unknown location. Since the collaspe of the main Imperial fleet pirates and other free booters over run rampent all across Imperial water ways.

Few worry about the savages to the North now because of the collaspe of the Empire has turned allies into enemies as brother fights brother to seize whatever resources they can prior to the arrival of the savages. What news does arrive at your capital is both strange and distrubing.

On the positive side you hear that many groups have thrown off the yoke of Imperial repression and have driven out or are actively fighting the local Imperial authorities. Along with rebellions though several cults have begun to spread. Some preach a doomsday message and declare all is lost and there has even been mass suicides. Others have abandon Imperial and Native beliefs and are founding a new religious movement that is reallying to fight and is talking of new gods. And there are still others who are more then happy to give the North Men what they want even children and military equipment.

This is all distant news though and as warlord you are the leader and your rule is absolute and as you sit on your throne you hear the news of the day.

*A large mercenary clan of Franks eager to show their loyalty to their lord and Master have sent you many interesting gifts. They worked as mercenaries for the Empire and many of their number fought as warriors in the Norse. They bribed an Imperial merchant for transport home and are now trying to reassert their influnece in the area. There gifts include...

20 barrels of wine
30 Virgin maidens of Luna
10 Empire Warhorses
Also smaller amounts of Pottery, Jewels, furs, and scrolls of poetry plundered from around the empire.

*Though your warriors have been through the governor's abandon estate and government buildings and found little that was not taken or destroyed there is still the matter of the small stone and wood Imperial fort on the rocky out cropping by the sea. The inner walls and buildings are all made of stone, but the outer wall which stretches the length of the base of the peninsula has thick wooden wall. With the walls is a model imperial town with shops, supply houses and farms. Those who didn't leave with the governor can be found hold up there.

The priests of Gorm have taken command of the fortress and now every soldier has twin blue lighting bolts painted in their shields to show their devotion to their cause. Many Imperial civilians have also joined or been forced into militia units and they also have a good number of Imperial wardogs (crossbred with wolves).

Though they haven't moved from behind there walls they are within striking distance of your community and the sandy beach that is nearby could provide a good landing site for ships to land under the protection of the fortress. A Imperial fleet has been spotted by merchants and fishermen in the area, but few know anything about the phantom fleet.

*There are days of celebration and nights of feasting as the Wolfbrothers and the Bearkin clans prepare for what lays ahead. The promise to avenge your slain kinsmen and promise to give the Northmen a good fight. In private though they concede it will be a tough fight and there return is doubful, but being brave warriors in a few weeks time they set sail on merchant ships paid for from your treasury. They take with them 200 warriors from their households and an additional 100 clanless warriors and 200 slavic mercenaries.

* The Khan Temur, comes to homage to you and he does it in all the regal splendor he can manage. His procession includes 100 mounted warriors in full armor and 100 female slaves dressed in silk following with many camp followers close behind. They setup their yurts not far from the capital and wait to discuss terms with you in the wake of your victories against them and others. The Khan also presents you with many...exotic, impressive, and strange gifts.

You are given 100 bows with quivers and arrows made by master craftsmen of the Khan's lands. They're the same as those carried by his elite guard who enter the city and are as beautiful as they are deadly.

One of his aids personally presents you with a pair of warrior horses for breeding. They're fast and strong and each come with impressive saddles and barding.

Other items include a small chest of jewels, an ivory handled long sword, and the severed head of the Khan's second wife an imperial princess (he wished to show his devote to you.)

Diplomacy

Your bonds are strong at home and many clans bring you tribute ranging from furs to weapons to more exotic gifts. One clan even brings you an exotic zebra and another sends you barrels of a ale you have nevered tasted. Your rule seems secure for the moment.

A ship carrying representatives of a silk traders guild arrives in the harbor and sends you several bolts of silk as a gift and wishes to speak with you.

Imperial renegades hiding in the great woods send word to you through a local clan chief that they're willing to talk and are interested in forming their own clan since many have barbarian wives.

Clans Longbeard and Stonehill have gone to war over a dispute about grazing lands and several have died so far.


Building

The new library is a very impressive structure and many noble families have donated writings to be stored in the great library. The saga Rau is already displayed prominently in the main hall along with other great works. This has impressed many people who thought only the Empire could build such structures.

Some are calling for schools to be build for the children.

Many peasants around your capital is have upgraded...

The Farm House

The large hut doubled in size and much nicer. It has a larger store room and a workshop to make tools and basic weapons. It has a garden and a field for growing crops or a space to graze livestock, and a large shed or a barn. These homes also have a shrine that needs to be tended by a priest, but can be used to create minor religious items. Alternatives include fruit trees, trees for harvesting, or take away the field (can keep the garden) and add a dock and boat house you have a fishing operation. These are good stone and wood structures and they show that your people have prospered. There is also an area to brew spirits.

A group of Greek merchants have started to building several warehouses and workshops and plan to sell pottery, metal cook pots and tools, and some luxury items. The have also built a chapel to their Gods and Goddesses as well as a large....Fortified Farm

The farm house design on steriods. Thicker walls and strong thick double doors. Larger store rooms, and two workshops, one for tools and another for weapons (armor and hand weapons only). The will also have a chapel dedicated primarily to a wargod but there might be shrines inside to other Gods and there is a love level priest. There will be a training area near the fields and targets for missile weapons. There will be a barn and grazing area if they are cavalry troops. There is a brew house which a place to brew spirits and a place to sit and drink and meet.

These are really a cluster of small farms that are walled in and have several families and farm workers (slaves or hired help) band together. The compound is surrounded by a stone or wood wall and has two months of supplies at any even time. While these structures are seldom seen within cities and towns they're highly popular on the the frontier or the coast where people have to defend themselves.

Trade

As by your decree trade begins and soon steel, wool, beef, and silverare regularly traded return for pork, grains , salt, and rakum root as well as many items.

A few have even begun to build Manor houses near the harbor.

The Manor House

If the fortified farm is geared towards war and defense the manor house is geared to making money. Manor houses have double the fields and gardens a farm house has and grazing space for animals and there are plenty of store rooms to keep large amounts of supplies. There is one large workshop for mass producing tools or weapons and a smaller for household work. There is a large brew house for storing and making of spirits whether it is wine or beer and there is a hall to drink and meet in. There is also a chapel with a full time priest and students and education for the children. The chapel has its own garden and store room.

This land pays for itself like all farms but it turns a profit and your middle class and nobles ususally call them home. It depends on the owner, but their defenses are similar to the fortified farm, but not as extensive.


Several local chiefs have even begun proving local roads and several store houses have been built. A visiting Roman architect has been commioned to design a new impressive system of docks that lead to warehouse which in turn are easily accessed by roads.


Training


Your Eastern allies young warriors have learned well and know how to use both spear and sword fairly well and can perform. There has been some brawling with the local youth buy that is to be expected.

 

[rengadeirishman]

Conan personally led the assault on the fortress held by the priests of Gorm. His new Archdruid had come to rededicate the site to the Old Gods so a grand fane could be built.

Conan cut down another soul unfortunate enough to stand against his fury, adding to the trail of broken corpses he blazed through the fortress. He came upon the High Priest, who shook before him, standing at the altar.

"p...p..please, don't kill me!"
"Come now, stand and face death like a man."
"i b..beg you..."
"Have you no pride? Is this the kind of servant your craven god accepts? Stand or i shall stand you"

the priest continued shuddering.

"Pathetic..." Conan seized the priest by the throat and lifted him onto the altar, two of his men holding the priest down by the arms and legs.

"Hear me Gorm, if you truly exist, your reign here is ended! Wodan, The All-Father reigns here again, and Tor enforces his law! Gods and Daemons bend at his might, and so shall you! Look to me! Watch as Wodan feeds on the blood of your dog, at your table! Wodan, All-Father, Grace me with your ear, accept this sacrifice, paltry and unworthy as it is, Barbaria is once again yours!" he roared and drove his sword into the chest of the high priest with the mightiest blow he had ever struck. So forceful was the strike that his mighty sword pierced into the marble of the altar. and pinned the priests body to it. He stepped back and saw the glorious image of his sword hilt standing from the middle of the altar. His men stepped back in awe, marveling at the power of their gods.

Build
in the days that followed, the word of the miraculous blow spread around the country. The old fortress was torn down and construction began almost immediately on the High Fane that was to take its place.

War
new warriors were blooded and soon clan pyrik was subdued, Conan's rule was virtually universal throughout the island, the Northmen had been handled for the time being

Trade
Conan had met with the silk traders and brokered deals to trade iron and wood for silk

Diplomacy
Conan met with the leaders of the Imperial Renegades and had given them permission to found their own clan, taking them under his personal protection. He advised them to consult the druids and shamans to pick an auspicious name for their clan.

Training
Conan ordered the Horse lords to teach their miraculous riding ability to others and was currently in the process of forming the very first Heavy Cavalry unit ever fielded by a barbarian warchief