Inspirational Music for the Action


- https://youtu.be/aIHvr5zKquw - Throw off the Bowlines (starting the journey)


https://youtu.be/n-Dh3ftkRAs - Flight of the Silverbird (Wind in the sails and cutting through the water. If you only listen to one make it this one)


https://youtu.be/6qTghUgMOeY - Impossible (an Epic One)


Domonico has been planning a pilgrimage dedicated to Mangata for some time (FLASHBACK 291), intending to visit numerous sacred sites to the Goddess of the Sea and Sky.
The ship transporting the pilgrims will be Domonico's personal caravel, the Tempest, named and dedicated to Mangata and personally blessed by Blessed Madeleine, Archlector of Mangata. The ship will be flying the colours of Mangata for this journey. (ACTION 3706)

The voyage itself will be as important as the destinations themselves, with Domonico doing his best to navigate the Tempest through interesting routes and making sure that the other pilgrims and travellers are able to assist with the sailing on the ship and will encourage 'sea chanties', sung prayers to the Goddess to help with with work on board ship, as even the act of sailing on the seas will be a form of worship.
The wind in his hair and the smell of the waters will even have the stern Admiral smiling most of the journey as well. On the voyage one thing that Domonico will be noted doing every day, is dangling (absail fashion) by a rope or climbing netting, off the side of the ship, just enough to let his hand touch the water, running his fingers through it.

The route will be beginning at Arx with prayers held at the Shrine and on the Beach by the statue of the Goddess and as they travel they will collect water from the different sites to return to Arx with. (if the whirlpool is still in effect then they will have a brief travel to where the Tempest is at anchor on the Gray River).
From Arx, the voyage will head up the river towards the North, the wide river allowing the Tempest to travel a considerable distance up towards there, pausing briefly at the numerous Shrines and aiming to reach the Great Northern Shrine itself.

From there the journey will go back down the river again before heading up the coast to Pearlspire where the ship will moor before cliff jumping and pearl diving will be the main experiences in a form of worship to Mangata.

Onwards the voyage will go, across the sea to the Mourning Isles to pay tribute to the Goddess in the ruins near Maelstrom to visit (clues 3018 and 3019), praising her name. Here Domonico will drink from the fountain statue and gaze upon the murals of her likeness.

After Maelstrom, Domonico will set course for Darkwater Watch, to allow Carita to host the pilgrimage and show them the altar, shrine and healing pool there.

Setting sail from Darkwater Watch, the Pilgrimage will set course towards Southport, the City of Swords to dock and pay tribute at the monument of Mangata that was erected several years ago.(Action 497)

From there the Tempest will sail around the coast towards Ostria to dock at Port Valerio and see the statues of Mangata on the walls there.

The Tempest will then head to the southwest, towards the Cyrto Archipelago and the domain of Magnotta, the House named in honour of the Goddess. There it will allow a while to pause and reflect in one of the natural lagoons off Cyrto Major, a time to rest, relax and swim in the sea before Domonico berths the Tempest at Fort Magnotta and will host and entertain the pilgrims in Caer Morien, the towered city built on the ruins found on the highest mountain on Cyrto Major. Here they will be close to the Goddess's other domain, that of the Sky and the vantage point allows them to look out over the Cyrto Arch and the sea itself.

The Tempest will then give the Goddess the helm, letting the wind fill the sails and see where the winds take them as per the suggestion (in FLASHBACK 291) from Legate Aillith. Where would the Goddess want to take them? A new island? A forgotten shrine? Maybe just the open sea?

Whereever they end up, Domonico will eventually turn the Tempest back towards Arx, taking the pilgrims home, hopefully with a greater love and devotion to the Azure Queen, Goddess of Sea and Sky, Mangata.

Madeleine is very much for a pilgrimage dedicated to Mangata and is delighted to be invited by Lord Domonico. It's clearly something that falls under her remit as Archlector. She joins the voyage for in her capacity as Archlector for a few reasons. She is interested in going on pilgrimage to sites sacred to the Goddess. She is also very interested in creating a new notable route dedicated to the Goddess that others can follow in the future.

She will lead the pilgrims and crew in prayers, as well as leading a few 'sea chanties'. She will sing prayers to the Goddess to help with work on board the ship.

Months and months ago..ok, probably a year ago, Domonico asked his favorite sister(only sister), if she would go on this pilgrimage with him. Of course she agreed! She's in a boat, so of course she did. And she's never gone on such before, so let the adventure begin! Thea is so excited to get out of the city, to get sun, sea, and just away--To learn more about Mangata.

Thea will listen to every story, every prayer(respectfully), every everything from all on board and well-she came to not only go and do the things but well---she's is also going to be the medic. Someone has to make sure if something goes, iry they can get mended.

At every shrine, Thea will pray, leave a little bit of something personal of herself at each place. The final leg of their journey, she will leave something of her late father, Callo Malvici. The most important man in her life.

Miranda's never been on a pilgrimage. This will be her first and she is excited. The Explorer side of her is excited to see the different places they may go and her Malvici half (Father's side) is excited to be amongst family. More, to help her cousin see his way through this necessary step in his life. And for hers! Mangata's been essential in various dealings of nasty Abyssal things and in life, so Miranda is glad to pay homage. She will bring a small vial to fill just a little with the water of each place they go. At each shrine, she will offer something of her own. Nothing big. The idea is to just leave a tiny piece of herself as sacrifice. A strand of hair. Tears. Laughter... at each shrine, each holy place they go, she will let the place 'speak' to her and offer something as a result. She loves to sail and knows Mangata can offer them gentle seas and winds, or storms of terrifying proportions (she's been through both!) and that is part of the thrill. Are they worthy? Will they be tested? Only Mangata knows for sure!

Accompanying Domonico and the others on the pilgrimage, Jasher offers neither hymns nor scintillating conversational skills. What he -does- offer, though, is being there: when not participating in the various rituals of the pilgrimage, rarely a moment goes by when the Thraxian isn't seen checking knots or otherwise doing maintenance suspiciously close to puttering busywork. He also keeps an eye on their surroundings, noting changes in the current or wind when able, and doing what he can to help navigate the Tempest around whatever hazards may be in the way.

Otherwise, Jasher seems to willingly participate in the rituals as they visit the various places the Tempest takes them. He would join the prayers held at the beach where the shrine is, linger near the side of the vessel as it sails so as to relish the feel of the wind and the sea spray, drink in the fountain and the sight of the ruins near Maelstrom, and even engage in cliff diving(!).

"An endless pilgrimage of the heart . . ."

With a mind unfurled and light as the winds and a devotion vast as the ocean, the Legate of Concepts dedicates this pilgrimage to the love of our Lady, Bright Star of the Ocean, Azure Mother, Pearl of Grace - Mangata. In unison with Archlector Madeleine and supported by the attending Godsworn and disciples, Ailith oversees the spiritual needs and ceremonies as well as encouraging the pilgrims with their spiritual journeys.

To the Bay of Arx, dropped to a kneel, Ailith awakens the dawn with a prayer before the sacred statue and altar of Mangata -- sharing with earlier risers the tale of how the devoted in Arx in company of Prince Venteri of the Marin'alfar recovered the ancient altar piece and made offerings before the statue, sharing a tale of white dolphin babies being rescued, sharing of other tales of how prayers across the Mourning Isles empowered the Goddess with the eternal struggle against Leviathan, sharing a tale of the Goddess' kiss upon a young inquisitive girl's cheek opened the possibility of hope and new devotion -- that this morning prayer is to symbolize the devoted to the Goddess (in all forms) and to invite a new beginning for each pilgrim.

The prayer is focused on encouraging pilgrims to seek meaning about their self by expanding their knowledge and deepening their connection with the Goddess. The route was selected, not only for the sacred sites, but the long journey across the waters to allow for seclusion with prayers and contemplation within their cabin as well as opportunities to discuss and share personal experiences related to the Goddess. Emphasizing, Ailith asks each pilgrim to prepare a prayer or offering for the Goddess at the last leg of the journey -- to symbolize what was learned or any grown devotion.

At every stop along the journey, Ailith makes a point to accompany Archlector Madeleine to visit the shrine, local Seraph, and parishioners. The focus is to renew kinship and be among the people, offering charity and means to expand upon these communities. A special afternoon ceremony is held for the pilgrims, inviting the local parishioners and above all the host House nobility to share in these devotions made in honor of the Goddess, Mangata. Each ceremony is personalized to the specific region, a tale the people can identify with, but, too, also become more aware of the Goddess, her gifts, and acts done in her name. For instance, of the Lighthouses that stand as beacons against the night and storms (clue 1087).

At Ostria, Ailith accepts with Archlector Madeleine the very kind invitation by Duke Hadrian to spread good will, charity, and worship upon the faithful beyond the port at Port Valerio. For this specific case, she will carry forth the Ewer of Gods Love (crisis action 3947) to host a special ceremony for them and to pour the holy water in the gardens that Duke Hadrian has permitted (hoping by the shrine).

At the Great Northern Shrine to Mangata, she walks with Archlector Madeleine and converses with Lord Arik as to honor the devoted site built by House Halfshav. To this, she carefully pours these sacred waters from the Ewer by the trees and flora that Duchess Khanne or Lord Mirk personally oversaw in being planted.

At Southport, Ailith shall host a special ceremony to honor those who dedicated themselves in the battle against the Gyre -- sharing the public pieces of her experience and offering chances for the pilgrims such as Lady Eirene and Highlord Victus to share their own. At the very port where the sailors departed for the Gyre War, Ailith pours the sacred waters and whispers prayers in thanks to the Goddess, asking that the winds shall be fair to House Malvici when they are called to defend the Compact and in her honor as they had during the Gyre War.

In between each shrine, Ailith guides prayer circles and encourages the time for seclusion and journaling. She asks for every pilgrim to be willing to share any new experiences or ask their questions to one another -- for together, we can grow wiser by learning and accepting differences. And for fun, she assists with Archlector Madeleine for water coloring! It is a soothing artform that can focus one's mind in meditations or can simply be a fun and enjoyable practice to bond with others.

It is at the very final spot -- the leap of faith. Ailith starts a pilgrimage ritual to send their prayers upon the winds and waters to the Goddess -- letting her hear how her pilgrims grew in their faith and devotion. This specialized ritual relies upon every pilgrim to offer their prayer or gift to the Goddess, to be open with their heart and soul, so she will come to know their individual journey and change within themselves. It is at the bow of Tempest that she begins this ritual, gesturing to each pilgrim to extend their prayer or offering off the bow. Upon conclusion, she seals the ritual with her own devotions -- calling out to the Marin'alfar (touching upon her moon pendant to say hello to Ayllish and Venteri), to the brotherhood of white dolphins, to every sacred gift of sea and sky, to the Seraph of Mangata, and lastly to the Goddess herself -- and offering her water color portrait which represents every water collected at each spot on the pilgrimage, painted in brilliant colors to reflect her worship. She asks that the winds catch their sails and the pilgrims based on their journey be guided to a place under Mangata's eye -- a place her present worshippers may renew to be included in future pilgrimages.

Caelis has been looking forward to this pilgrimage for some time. Having offered her cousin her aid previously in the past, she is quick to join the crew for this voyage. With plenty of soul searching to do, Cae helps out with the day to day managing of sailing as well as using the various tools in her arsenal to make sure the trip is as safe as it can be.

Reese plans to attend this mission and to help sail and fight as needed! She hopes to be there to support Domonico and to help the mission be a success. She will help defend the others if it comes up, fight if they need to and will try to help with the ship or navigating."

Eirene has, as of late, expressed more interest in learning about the Gods and how the Pantheon interacts with one another. So she takes the opportunity to better learn and grow from this journey, enjoying the sea air and sunlight on her skin as they sail further south, after the oppressive Arx weather

Arik Halfshav on a pilgrimage. Impossible. Improbable. It's a pilgrimage to shrines to Mangata. Oh that makes sense. On the journey Arik asks quite a few questions it would appear he has a passing familiarity with the specifics of Mangata. There's a booze contest, he knows about that. There are some elves below the waves that she likes an awful lot. Spring stuff. He asks a lot of questions especially once they leave Cascade Springs for other sites.

His actual participation though is showing off the Whitehold shrines to Mangata. It is more than likely that they don't stop to see them all since Halfshav and its people made shrines at at the mouth of every river in the duchy, by every pond, every stream, every lake within the lands years ago. He'll point to a spot as they float by on the Grey River and tell of oh there's a shrine over there only a half a days ride... etc etc. Once they do get to Cascade Springs itself and the Great Northern Shrine to Mangata, Arik has some things prepared for them. Northern wool cloaks with swirling sea-hued gradient and sumptuous white fur. Upon the back is a silver emblem: an image of two streams coming to meet as one. They are also treated to pudding cups which look like planted springs of mint which are in fact chocolate confections. Finally everyone on the ship gets a tour of the river port town. Arik is rarely long winded but as he was one of the people who built it... He talks quite a bit. How Khanne brought about the shrines in the duchy. How the shrinetown of Cascade Springs became a goal of the Halfshav's a few years after. How there is a Bard's College chaperhouse, notable merchants from every fealty with northern shops here, and of course the Great Northern Shrine to Mangata itself. (see action: 2976 for origin of items)

Leola is there in her role as the Paladin of Creation and as a Knight of Southport. She accompanies to inspire, to support, and to act as a second to the Archlector and to the Dominus as required, supporting them as they need.

Orrin will both be attending the whole of the pilgrimage and, before it sails, ensuring there is an appropriate reception for the travelers in Pearlspire.

Attendance: Orrin's expertise has never been sailing. He loves the sea, of course, but loves it from within, swimming and diving; from above, the breeze on the cliffs of his home; in its foods, seaweed, fishes, mollusk and brine; and in his people, the divers and fishermen, sailors, shipwrights, navy men and other salt-stained souls he calls his. Seeing the sea through sailors' eyes will be a new sort of devotion, and a way of showing his people he understands the gifts they've been given, a way of channeling their gratitude through him as their leader. And so he will sail, and learn what he can, and also enjoy the wind and the water in ways more familiar to him on the way, swimming and diving, eating fresh catch, and letting the sun bake him as happens. Particularly in Maelstrom, he will meditate on his family's relationship to the sea, and in particular Tiga Seliki, shipwright, liberator, and leader.

In Pearlspire, he will ensure a proper feast and celebration is prepared, reflecting the bounty of the sea in its season and the diaspora of peoples of Pearlspire through the range of foods, songs, dances, and games, both cliffside and ready to board the ships so that everything can be enjoyed on the water itself. Games to include of course cliff-diving and swimming races, plus the easygoing enjoyment that is Pearlspire's every day. Local officials of the Faith will be called upon to bless the journey. Those of the pilgrimage who dive and manage to capture for themselves a pearl will be encouraged to keep it and offered settings by Pearlspire's own artisans, and those who are not so bold or lucky will be given a Seliki pearl (with the same offer of a setting) to remember their visit to Pearlspire along the way.

Scythia joins the pilgrimage with her husband, Orrin, though the Redreef born noble is devout in her prayer and pleased to accompany the group for such a purpose. Through the pilgrimage, she tells stories of Mangata, via voice and dance when appropriate, and naturally when they are at Pearlspire she relishes the time with her people.

There will be those who may believe it slightly mad of the Third Reflection to have suggested - nay, /convinced/ - Count Domonico Mangotta to have allowed her beloved, Ravna Culler, to join them on this journey. But Dianna is sure that the wild vagabond is both lucky and beloved by at least one god, either Gild or Mangata -- and this is both a journey, therefore a tribute to Gild, and a journey of the sea, an obvious tribute to Mangata.

She has assured and promised Count Domonico that she will keep the Culler well-in-hand and well-behaved such that this journey is truly successful. She is a Mirrormask, of course; is it so very strange, then, that one of her personal tributes and contributions is one so unusual?

And yet, all things have and must have a balance: Dianna is, of course, sworn to all gods first and foremost. She will bring her lyre and play it, singing prayers with Madeline in support of the sailors, the journey and the various stops. Dianna also brings with her tributes of her own to aid in these rituals: Two casks of Third Wall, her favorite Ostrian brandy, with which she will share a toast with the others at every shrine; and a single bottle of Second Wall, Ostria's juniper-and-fig-based gin, which she will share with her companions when they arrive at Ostria's shores, where she and Madeline may see to the state of the statues Dianna had placed there while she was with House Mazetti (action 1572).

The arrival in Ostria will be, of course, the most emotional part of the journey for Dianna: Being home, being reminded of what she had been, being reminded of what she gave up and for whom: The very goddess she makes this journey for being one of the gods and goddesses Dianna has traded her oaths to serve.

So, the greatest tribute Dianna gives is her own life, her presence. In Ostria, the Third Reflection Mirrormask will offer a special prayer to rededicate the statues to Mangata and will hold a sermon on the divine place of the sea and of drink in Ostria's history, noting the good that can come of even overindulgence in alcohol - for, how many truths are spoken freely by those who are drunk? How many earnest tears spilled, how many honest emotions revealed? How many friendships are sealed so very often in the joy of sharing wine and distilled alcohol - like Third and Second Wall?

Having, of course, invited her beloved parents to the sermon and rededication so they may see for themselves who Dianna is and know of her great dedication - both to Ostria and to the Faith, the Third Reflection hopes they will accept and honor her choice. Of course, they will also meet Ravna, should they accept her invitation - and who knows how they will feel about that wild Culler being loved by their eldest daughter? But, perhaps, they will see her joy in his freedom and love for her; and it will make them smile.

Unconventional, though she may be, Dianna Godsworn is yet always bold - and so very elegant in being so.

Princess Rawen is coming along on the pilgrimage to study over as much of the lands as she can. She wants to find out what secrets may lurk on these isles

On this trip, Ravna will dice with the crew and any who join. He will drink, be merry, and otherwise sing and lounge; enjoying life as only the Drunken Sage can. At each site, he will spin his luck and eyeball these places, the words and riddles within, and in each place riddle, and talk aloud to Mangata herself. Probably while in a hammock. Or so drunk he falls asleep in the green grass.

For Prince Victus' part, he'll be welcoming the whole procession onto Maelstrom personally. Shepherding their ships into the same docks that the Colossus of Mangata overlooks. He will also ensure that several disciples of Mangata are there to meet them when they arrive. Once they're here, he'll join their group to the Ruins of Maelstrom, where he'll recount the history to the best of his knowledge. On the trip back, he'll ensure they're sent off with a proper and formal feast celebrating their journey. Victus will be talking up the worship of Mangata quite a bit during this time. The rest of the Pantheon is great too of course, but Mangata? Hohoho that Mangata sure is great.

Ostria is made ready to receive visitors. This means a few different things. An honor guard tasked with receiving the Tempest in the form of the caravel Valor, two galleys, and four longships from House Mazetti's own fleet move out to meet the visiting caravel and helpfully guide it to Port Valerio's deep waters.

Due to upcoming efforts regarding Port Valerio's use in cooperative efforts between House Mazetti and Velenosa, the visiting worshippers will be advised that their presence is welcomed within Port Valerio itself and the shipyards are strictly off-limits; this is to lessen the possibility of misunderstandings and the fact that the points of worship are quite evident in the sea-side statuary, the wonder that is Port Valerio itself, and the fantastic mural of Marshal Valerio Mazetti (action 3064).

An escort is assigned for those seeking to explore the port, to ensure that nothing untoward happens to the distinguished visitors. Any attempt to access locations that have been previously advised as closed to visitors? Will result in their being turned away and sent back to the port, up to and including being sent back to the ship which they arrived on.

The visiting Archlector Madeline and Legate Ailith of course have approval to venture beyond the port, mingle with the people, and spread their good word. They are the exception to the rule.

Carita aaaabsolutely loves the salt air, wind in her hair, listening to the various singing voices. She's not much of a singer herself, but she can carry a tune, and she's more than willing to join in when the song calls for it. If there's a drinking game, she'll offer up the rum and whiskey, likely drink someone under the table (or at least look like she did while pretending to be sober) and hate everything the next day. There's not a single port that the group goes in to see that she isn't -right- there with everyone else, quiet, considerate, reverent, observing. She'll tell her own story, how felt like she had an excellent relationship with Mangata since her childhood, and believes that it's how she was brought to Darkwater, through Mangata's guiding hands. When Ailith and Madeleine paint, Carita joins them; in fact, she will most likely set up a little time at each port visited to paint a little, if time allows for it. She'll also spend a little bit of time with the other pilgrims, asking them about their stories to keep a record by writing them down, when permitted, for everyone later so that the trip's memory is forever solidified on paper.

When the journey takes them past Maelstrom towards Darkwater, Carita is happy to host the pilgrimage there. Though, because of the past hurts of the isle, the Countess is protective. Following Hadrian's example, the worshippers will be advised that their presence is welcomed as long as they don't wander to explore without the guards that Carita has offered, who will make sure they don't go any further than the healing pool that the Countess has arranged to show everyone. She'll explain how she believes the pool might be a marriage of Mangata and Lagoma, telling that she witnessed Highlord Victus dip his cut hand into it, once, and pull it out completely healed. That Legate Ailith was there for the shrine's creation, which is carefully built from the weapons of the fallen near the funeral pyre that once burned for Lord Darrow and Koraj Marin--better known as the Gyre. She'll proudly show around the altar are the symbols of each of the Thirteen. And at the base of the altar are symbols - The symbols of the Faith. The symbol of the Inquisition. The symbol of the Sentinel, of a ship. Of a trident, of a hand, a pair of crossed lightning bolts beneath a single flame, and in the center a teardrop.

A small cairn sits to one side next to the altar, a stone cairn with a medallion bearing the image of Sentinel, a faceless helm, atop. And in front of the altar, where careful hands dug a small pool, it has widened now and turned into a reflecting pond. They'll be encouraged to visit the water, but warned to leave the peace flowers around it alone, and their guards would respectfully enforce this as well.

Pasquale is joining the pilgrimage in an attempt to better understand and connect with Mangata, the sailors mindset and each location along the route. He will be paying special attention to the religious aspects of the journey but also wishes to take the opportunity to make contacts and explore parts of the world he doubts he would have visited otherwise.

It is an auspicious day to begin the pilgrimage - clear and cool, under a beautiful autumn sky. The group must travel to the Tempest’s berth on the river, and from there, they sail up towards the North. Although unkind stereotypes often paint the North as a place of barbarism and spirit-worship, the Faith is just as well known in the northern fealties as it is in the Crownlands, and the pilgrimage visits the northern temples on the wide, deep Gray River. When the Gray River grows too narrow and shallow for the great caravel, the pilgrims walk to Halfshav lands to see how the Northerners have honored the lifegiving goddess of sea and sky with beauty and bounty. Arik proves a competent host, despite some initial grumbles from the more Orthodox followers regarding his status as shaman. By the end, even the most skeptical are willing to admit that Halfshav does honor the gods well, whatever quaint customs they also choose to cling to. Ravna spends the entire time drunk, but he makes a lot of friends by sharing his peach liquor.

Along the way, the prayers of the Archlector Madeleine and Legate Ailith resound from temple and shrine, and people flock to be ministered to by leaders of the Faith that they never get to see. The songs and performances by Dianna and Scythia are greatly appreciated, and by the time they get back to their ship, several Northerners have begged for a chance to join the pilgrimage as well. Thus, the Tempest is followed by a small fleet of river boats all the way down and to Pearlspire - only Domonico’s canny captaincy and the help from these sailors enables the Tempest to navigate a branch river to the great river leading to Pearlspire and avoiding the whirlpool.

There, the pilgrims are feted and feasted by Count Orrin. A pearlfishing expedition is remarkably successful; everyone who chooses to dive comes up with a pearl-bearing oyster, and Rawen shows impressive oyster-shucking skills. As pilgrims offer prayers to the sea, the wind kicks up, blowing a large wave up and over the shore; for some reason, Orrin is particularly struck (and soaked) by the surprisingly warm water. When they set out on the sea, it is to cheers and joy. Ravna spends the entire time drunk, but somehow, when he passes out on the shore and almost drowns, he finds a remarkably nice pearl oyster. And almost drunkenly eats it, before some kind soul trades it for more booze.

The sea is, however, a place of dangers, and not everyone honors a pilgrimage as they should. As they are heading towards Darkwater Watch, pirate vessels are sighted on the horizon. To arms, to arms! Unable to outrun the pirates, the pilgrims must fight. All of the pilgrims put up a good fight, but Thea, Jasher, Victus, and Caelis show themselves particularly adept in the defense. As does Princess Reese, who swings to the other ship, and cuts down the pirates’ first mate in a brief but vicious duel across the deck. The captain, finally recognizing the High Lord of Thrax and the legendary Knight of Ribbons, turns tail and flees. Eirene finds the rest of the pilgrimage quite full with treating the wounded, and people are thankful to have such a competent healer along, even if it means she doesn’t get to concentrate on her own prayers as much as she’d hoped. Ravna spends the entire time drunk, but does manage to stumble into a pirate and knock him overboard during the fighting.

In Darkwater Watch, the pilgrims are welcomed by Carita, who moves from pilgrim to host with grace, as well as prayers and feasting. Although the pilgrims are not permitted far into the Watch, they do get to see the beautiful spring rumored to have healing powers - but when they find it, the water in the pool is very, very low, as if the spring is, at last, drying up. Ravna (still drunk) bursts into tears, moaning, “It is not enough. It is never enough.” And, perhaps overcome by the journey, Miranda faints. She is quickly revived, finding herself desperately thirsty, and the pilgrimage continues, although not without some worried murmurs from those inclined to superstition.

Although the curiously persistent escort of dolphins that leads them away from the Watch brightens some spirits, especially in conjunction with the charming sight of Leola teaching them some tricks along the way, it’s still a more sober Tempest that docks at Ostria. And the Ostrian reception is equally complicated, with stern and cautious people who are not as open as many others. But, if they are not effusive, they are welcoming, and Duke-Consort Hadrian is as warm and friendly as anyone might wish. The visitors are confined to the port, but given every comfort. Dianna finds her reception chilly at first, but by the time they leave, she has begun to reconcile with some of her people. Ravna spends the entire time drunk, and is found snoring on deck, draped in seashell necklaces. He has no idea where they came from.

Finally, to Caer Morien, where its heights touch the sky as its roots reach into the sea. Unsurprisingly, with Domonico leading the pilgrimage, the welcome is everything they might wish, and several days are spent in feasting, praying, and celebration. On the third day, a tremendous storm arrives, and the sky itself turns to water with the sheeting rain, the booming thunder somehow a joyful - if potentially deadly - sound as lightning dances over the sky. The next day, Domonico lets Mangata take the Tempest’s wheel, and the winds blow hard, sending the ship skimming over the waves as if it suddenly sprouted wings. The winds blow for most of the day, sending them out deeper into the sea that any of the Compact’s trade goes. There, they are becalmed. The silence is broken by massive bodies, leaping out of the sea around the vessel. Even with the size of the caravel, when they land, the waves shake the ship, and splash the pilgrims with saltwater. Leola gasps, and says a word under her breath...balaen. The great, scaly-hided beasts of the deep sea circle the ship, singing a strange song without cease. And then they sink under the waves. All is calm. Ravna is drunk.

Domonico unerringly guides the ship back to the coast of Arx, although he must find a lesser port to dock the ship, as the whirlwind continues to churn.

As sure as the tides come and go and the sun rises and sets each day, once more the Compact is in danger. There are threats at every turn, enemies at every corner, it can pull one in multiple directions, spread thin while trying to see to them all. It can be a tiresome thing, overwhelming, but Morrighan's focus is set but on one thing right now and one thing only: the Northlands.

Ever since the Battle of Last Oak, her dreams have changed, dreams of the Horned God, dreams of his desire to create a new Triarchy, and the plans that follow. There's no doubt to be had of the concern and threat that alone poses, but there's something more, something the Sword feels deep in her bones, a sense of unease that doesn't dissipate (clue: 3491, gm note). There's something terrible and wrong in the North, and it's something that's growing.

This something needs to be found. With reports of three Heralds up North, whispers of the Great Beast of Midnight having escaped and joining forces with the Horned God, and potentially a dozen Thornweavers last known heading North, to travel in the same direction is no doubt quite dangerous. Morrighan can't perform this mission alone, and so she's pulled together a small, yet highly skilled group to help with reconnaissance. With her own skillsets and abilities put into play, Morrighan will also be relying on those of the group to help track down whatever this source of unease is - and in the process keep them all out of harms way.

The objectives are thus:

- Get in and out of the Northlands with as little detection (preferably none) as possible. Acquiring the attention of any of the three major threats would be very bad news.

- Find the source. This terrible wrong, this thing that's growing, whatever _it_ is, it needs to be found, and as safely as possible.

- Avoid crossing paths and conflict with the enemy, engaging in combat with three Heralds, the Great Beast of Midnight, or a dozen Thornweavers isn't really ideal or on the agenda. Scouting and reconnaissance only.

Lord Arik Halfshav has patroled Whitehold lands ever since he was a young man. Being able to judge the potential threats of not only the land but others that are traveling it was crucial to his survival. While journeying with Morrighan and the other companions he focuses all his attention on their surroundings, knowing that the abyss can do unnatural things but often leaves a sign he seeks out the disturbances to nature and the hints of odd animal activity as a precursor to any ambushes or in pursuit of the source of Morrighan's concern. Should the worst come about and the party is ambushed Arik will dedicate the bulk of his efforts to saving Dame Morrighan Marin the Sword of Farhaven then the Legate Ailith Godsworn... Everyone else definitely knew what they were getting into.

Before the research party ever leaves Arxlandia, "The Pettening" ultimately commences: of all the Cats and all the Dogs -- ALL OF THEM -- who the Scout Rowenova can possibly find. First and Foremost, this also includes the soulful hound Sir Floppington, of course. Then, the hound-and-human duo head out to the Northern lands with their research party, doing so with the determined objective to carry out those three objectives as expressed above.

With Nova as their luck charm along with Flop as a sensitive nose, they can hopefully help with digging up something substantial with their keen senses!

Ailith is faith, Nova luck, Arik wit, Morrighan wisdom. Lilah, then, is the weird. She contributes her lore skills and ability to detect Abyssal or arcane traces (clue 1202) to help the group avoid direct encounters with their enemies: House Thornweave (theory 516, 557; clues: 3248, 3443*, 3321*, 3244); Legion; the Horned God (revelation 61); and Shaivassa (clues: 357, 2964, 3020). She blends her survival skills with the deep font of occult expertise to ensure a (relatively) safe recon mission. Focused directly on finding signs of Thornweave or this newish Abyssal activity, she communicates the interpretations of these signs so they can build a greater picture of movements and pending trouble. This includes keeping tabs and notes on active use of certain kinds of magic. Making sense of what this threat actually is and getting back to describe it is /high/ on her list of things to do.

As a secondary function, she's using an active counterintelligence strategy to keep the group hidden from their enemies' notice. For example, watching for the enchanted thickets signalling Thornweave/Sylv'alfar magic. Her approach shifts according to observed threats, working closely with Ailith if they're heavy on Abyssal or Arik/Mo/Nova if it's Adepts or such. She is coming well-protected, in various bits of fireweave, steelsilk, Mal's coat, and her alaricite bow.

There and Back Again. Ailith and her Sword Sister, Morrighan, traversed across the Compact on a mission that half relied on a plan with a hammer and the other half as a leap of faith [GM Event 1441, 1446, 1454, 1463]. When there is faith, a direction can be guided by a lit path -- all one needs to do is make the first step. Ailith shall gear up (armor and holy diamondplate sword from PRP Event 1674), pack her holy water, prayer beads, and sacred lantern -- items that have guided her through the darkest of times. She offers to the party, blessings to lend them assistance along their journey -- prayers to the Gods.

She admits to not being stealthy, a tracker, or a survivalist. What she brings is her faith -- the full trust in her gods and being at the side of her Sword Sister. She's aware of all the big threats headed in a similar direction and hasn't let that deter her from finding the source behind Morrighan's unease -- whatever this new threat is for the Compact -- She is well aware that the objective is to detect the abyssal taint that exists outside the main known forces (demons, heralds, and fiends, oh my!) and do her best to bring justice or recover the needed knowledge for justice to be done.

Morrighan came asking for his help in a adveture she is going on to the North, speaking of the dangerous and what is going on Cillian has agreed to go up North with her. He will be doing scouting for her, its where he is most at home in the woods of the north it is where he grew up and lived till he came to Arx. He will be taking his caribou Akkar with them, he will be making sure he is set on supplies and armor before going. He will be lending his skills as a scout on this mission.

They are careful and skilled. They track in a half dozen different ways. Morrighan observes at and through. Arik traces disturbances in birds and beasts. Rowenova sets Sir Floppington sniffing. Delilah looks for dark traces and thickened thickets. Ailith takes deep breaths and gives blessings every so often. Cillian and his caribou slip through the shadows.

They are careful and skilled, but without any indication of having been seen, they stumble into . . . something. The air is thick with wicked crows, crows that Floppington cannot smell, cawing mockery. The shadows buzz with anticipation. The ground seems soft and fragile under foot. They stand in the darkness and realize that there does not need to be anything growing in the north besides the Horned God and his New Triarchy, the abyss they expect rather than the abyss they don't.

And by the time they get to that point, they seem too far in. The air smells like singed paper and burning metal, like sweat and insect wings and damp fur. They turn around and what they can see of the path is unfamiliar. They are not certain how they got where they are. The path, a loose track through the woods, is growing dark, their footsteps filling with murk. The crows' laughter seems both everywhere and targeted at them. They feel vague, blurred, as if they were falling into each other, as if they were losing themselves.

They try to make it back. They avoid the filling footsteps. They cling to each other. Their vision blurs. They see fire in deep water, they feel themselves drowning. They feel themselves helpless, dying, dissolving. They raise a hand and are not sure whose it is. They are dissolving. The shadows are devouring them. Or the crows. Is there a difference? Is the darkness from without or within? They think they feel chains as far as they can feel anything, the suggestion of chains around their limbs, dragging them together. And down.

Then, suddenly, two things happen. Rowenova and Sir Floppington howl at once, and Delilah sees a path, a true path, out of the shadow, a glimmer of hope in the darkness. She and Rowenova and Floppington thread the line, and the rest of the team finds themselves step by step. Ailith blinks and sees the path like a golden thread binding herself and the Compact back together. Arik feels strong as iron and beast, his every footstep like a tree re-rooting. Cillian finds his hand on Akkar's back. He feels lighter. Freer.

Then they're back. Then the shadows are gone. They remember this place. The hut in the distance with the soft eddy of smoke. The crooked tree overhanging the gully. They can't see what they stumbled into -- whatever it is doesn't seem to be a place, at least, not a place that one can see. Not now. But Delilah feels sure that this has a direction, and Sir Floppington's nose agrees (he doesn't smell anything, but there's this . . . tingle). Toward the Gray Forest. Past Old Oak. Delilah feels that the New Triarchy wants a crown.

It's just when they're settled back into themselves that they notice they're not alone. A great winged darkness passes to their left, amorphous. The shadow does not fall on them; not this time. The trees twist in the shadow underneath, tangling together into what Morrighan's team swears is a word. "Fugue." Then the amorphous darkness wings south, and the trees relax into their normal configuration.

The Ravenseye family have always been seafaring people while others of the North focused their attention elsewhere. It is no secret that Stormheart still relies heavily on the seas and rivers that lead to the city, and Aella has never made it a secret that she wishes more for her family since they have joined the Compact.

Grand plans for a Naval Shipyard to be build on Ravenseye land will increase productivity and income for the County while also providing the North a local ship yard to have their vessels built rather than relying on Mourning Isle families. The closer proximity should allow for Northern materials to be brought to Stormheart so each ship built is done so at a discount to the buyer.

The Naval yard will be in dedicated in honor of Mangata so that the Goddess may watch over each ship created and those who sail on them.

(The social resources are for PR. Buy Ravenseye! The north can be a difficult sell for ships, it certainly isn't their strong suit. Economic resources are for materials and trade agreements with other houses. The Military resources are reserved for protection of the ship yard, as well as making military type ships.)

Lord Arik Halfshav has some experience with development projects over the last few years so after offering his services to Countess Aella Ravenseye she finds a tidy sum of economic resources committed to the project (4000 economic resources) to entice merchants. Not only that but the Halfshav Lord helps with coordinating of caravans and timetables, reports and labor schedules. All the tedious day to day of making sure people get something done.

As the Minister of Fealty for House Redrain, Princess Elgana is more than happy to bring support to Countess Aella's grand plans of a naval yard. While Elgana only knows what she's read about sailing and shipbuilding, it isn't nearly enough to entrust such a task to her, so she leaves that to the professionals. What she does bring, however, is the aid of House Redrain in the form of Elgana working to secure the best merchant contracts possible (5,000 Economic Resources).

She'll talk up the good works of House Ravenseye with building this naval yard to various merchants. Having such independence while also being incredibly thankful for allies in Thrax, such as House Kennex for helping with maritime growth in the north, is a great thing that will bring prosperity, new trade potential, and military might to the Northlands. Who can argue with that?

Rosalind knows next to nothing about building ships, BUT, she's charismatic, gets along with well--anyone and has a really big mouth! Because she enjoys people. Geez! No really--ask around! So she's decided to talk to EVERYONE! All the people! Hey you! Do you know how to build ships? Yes?! Come home with me and build great ships and help with our naval shipyard, Stormheart is amazing, you'll love it! Oh you sail?! You're great at it you say?! Ohymygosh, we need you too! She does know just enough about boats to give out the correct information!

All of this will be spread everywhere, a smile on her face and of course a whiskey in hand. A northerner is always a northerner and alcohol seems to make even more friends!

Princess Consort Donella Redrain will make sure the diplomacy of this task is set up. She will also speak to her connections on Thrax to make sure that things are on the up and up on the basics of construct. The rest will be left up to others. She will make sure to speak to people about how this is a good move and they should support it.

Cadern isn't particularly helpfl for ship sand building but he will help in convincing people to join. This would be a mix of finding and recruiting shipbuilders and incentivizing them to join. He will happily talk up Stormheart and convince people it's THE place to be and go to and assist in recruiting able sailors as well. Cadern focuses on getting the good word out about the project.

Volcica doesn't know much about ships, building, or shipbuilding, but she does know a lot about the spirits. She'll be a guiding hand for House Ravenseye's project, helping to make sure that the spirits and the Pantheon are appeased and happy with the placement of the docks!

While Baltus doesn't know much about building a port or building ships, he does know ships. Which ones are good for which missions and tasks, the quality of one already built. He also knows sailors and knows the tides. And so he offers what help he can in offering advice and organizational assistance.

As a vassal of Crovane, House Ravenseye will receive full support from Duchess Fianna for its naval yard construction. Stormwall has recently built a new port and Fianna will use her experience to assist Ravenseye with its construction, as well as provide black lumber for supply and ships for protection during the process.

Llyr is going to help by giving darwings of design to help woith the ability to vizualize what will be built.

Infrastructure is Kaldur's avocation if not his particular area of expertise. He leads with enthusiasm and vigor for the project, venturing to the worksites as the crafters and laborers toil, unfussed about getting in and helping - particularly when anything needs done in the water. He'll be on boats helping sink pilings, swimming, diving, uncannily at home in the water, as much or more than he is in the saddle.

With his recent experience dealing with large building projects, Valdemar will focus on helping out with the design of the naval yards and the coordination of construction crews for maximum efficiency.

Countess Carita is more than happy to help those that ask her to. When Countess Aella asks her to use her building skills from Darkwaer, Grimhall's naval academy, Clearlake's docks, and numerous other areas, she's built up quite a list of names for people that know the people that get things done quickly, and efficiently. This should be cake, right? Who knows shipyards better than Darkwater?

What a magnificent shipyard it is! Such a massive undertaking increases everyone's standing for a time, and the help this necessarily provides to the Redrain fealty is much appreciated. Building ships in Stormheart is a little cheaper now, which is like to increase its importance.

Arcadia is keen to build her house's trade agreements and solidify it's links to the compact.

After speaking to house Halfshav, she decided to utilize the new port at Cascade Springs. She has found a suitable plot of land south of Bonespire, just before the boarder of Whitehold which can be used to create not only a trading post, but also a Shrine to Gild with attached lodgings for those who need to travel to the far North, specifically the knights of solace when they come work in the north.

So, she will do what she can as the new Marquessa-Consort, she will rally support, write plans, add supports as she can. This is a big project and she is going to try to keep it going as fluidly and as quickly as possible.

Rysen invests resources and contributes craftsfolk from the Arterius College in Stormwall to see to the construction of the shrine and outpost. He will also offer incentives for traders to use the roads between Stormwall, Bonespire and Cascade Springs, and contribute guards to protect Crovane assets as well as contribute to the general safety of the outpost and protect visitors to the shrine.

Lord Arik Halfshav is helpful in pointing out where that border between Whitehold claimed lands and Stahlben lands are. Then he is actually helpful in contributing economic favor and labroers to the project ensuring the road is in good repair and the projects are sufficiently staffed to complete in the window of spring and summer.

Etienne is always eager to assist in the creation of new Shrines for Gild wherever they may be erected, trade and civilization are good for business (of Faith). To this end he supplies resources, lovely illustrations of some of the more popular shrine designs gathered from around the compact and an offer to wield any large cutting shears to defeat any opening day ribbons that may threaten entry.

Arcadia's got the Compact side of the equation, and so Volcica will help with the.. shav side. The shaman side, more accurately. She'll be conferring with spirits, making sure that the place chosen is amenable and that local spirits are properly appeased. A new trading post doesn't need angry spirits, after all! She'll help Arcadia with the design details, as well, marrying Compact expectations with Bonespire style.

Marquessa-Consort Arcadia Stahlben has been busy. Working to rally support, write plans, engage others to help - she has called on allies like Lord Arik, and Lord Rysen, the Faith in the form of Archlector Etienne, and of course her own family Lady Volcica to help her. Together, they have increased trade and productivity, and simultaneously built a new Shrine to Gild as part of the settlement of Cascade Springs, a trading outpost recently established. Overall, it's a good thing that increases the economy in Bonespire and makes her look good doing it - she has allies, she has friends, she has the support of family, and she's clearly honoring the Gods. All in all, those looking to Stahlben leadership are pleased with the Marquessa-Consort at the moment.

The second phase of expansion in Cascade Springs begins in earnest. While the first phase was about expanding the footprint of the town and ensuring its security, the second phase is all about building it up even further – new infrastructure, new facilities, and all the growth in population and trade and guard forces needed to exploit it. Arik Halfshav has stepped in to help lead and coordinate this phase of the growth allowing his family members to help where they are most talented.

* Countess Carita Darkwater is employing her considerable knowledge of Stewardship and experience from rebuilding Darkwater to oversee construction of the docks and warehouses, as well as any other necessary facilities in the city, to transform this small shrine town into something befitting its growing size.

* Nightingale and Softest Whisper Gianna is opening a branch of the famed Bard's College in Cascade Spring with the understanding it focus and promote northern arts and storytelling traditions while bringing talents from all over the Compact.

* Sven, Vincenzo, Perronne, Bethany, Lore, and Draven are all taking advantage of agreements with House Halfshav to expand their business to Cascade Springs and open storefronts with warehouses for their trade. Reduced rent and taxes with the only requirement being to employ or train Halfshav commoners.

* Brianna, Ajax, Thena, and Rowenova are all providing security for the trade of Cascade Springs as well as the sudden influx of activity during construction of all of these shops and infrastructure. Brianna has the Cascade Springs Guard (#367) to assist her as she is Captain of the Guard for this growing town. Mirk has also instructed Halfshavs Troop Patrols (#369) to assist the Knights of Solace in defending the Great Road traffic during this time.

* High Lady Donella Redrain is working with the Sword of Farhaven Dame Morrighan in bringing members of the Crafters Guild of Arx to Cascade Springs. One speaks to the people while the other creates a unique design to be sold in shops to the pilgrims that come to the Shrine of Mangata.

* Lord Mirk Halfshav and Lady Acantha Clearlake attempt to build confidence in the shrinetown of Cascade Springs so as to make it a desirable place to live and fill out its growing buildings.

After his leadership of the first section of the expansion, Mirk is stepping back to focus on influence instead of direct leadership. He's spreading the word of Cascade Springs, to merchants who might bring wealth, to commoners who would be hired as builders or farmers or other laborers the project will need, selling everyone on the merits of the place and building a grand vision of the future of Cascade Springs.

Countess Carita Darkwater has done much for Darkwater and in so doing has learned just who to talk to and how to organize a project and how to get things done efficiently while doing her own projects. For Cascade Springs she'll help by talking to those people of influence that can get the docks placed in just the right location for trade on the river. She's personally investing her own money into the project, to show her faith in House Halfshav.

Gianna will be directing the construction of the Bard's College. Well, not in a get-your-hands-dirty kind of way. Just organizing the traits the building will need to have (acoustics, acoustics, acoustics) and how many bard blue banners will need to go up and so on. She'll also have to select some talent from her pool to entice over thataway to run the dang place.

Vincenzo is investing in the Cascade Springs project to the tune of 100,000 silver and 200 economic writs. The intent is to build a second shop in Cascade Springs, and send his best steamstress North to head up the operation. She will be producing his designs while learning the fashion sensibilities of the locals and starting to incorporate that into her work. She's also going to be sending the best apprentices, hired locally, back to Arx to train under Vincenzo. The idea being to provide Northern talent opportunities to study under a Lycene tailor and train them up to be successes on their own and ship them back to the North.

As per contract with the Halfshavs, Ajax is working under the Commander of Lady Brianna in setting up Caravans to the town. Along the way Ajax is using silver and resources to attract additional independent sellswords for protection to take the entire weight off the local Garrison. Ajax speaks Northern Shav fluently to help avoid particular mishaps of miscommunication but for most part is just trying to keep everyone coordinated and the goods moving.

Perronne has been hired to put together a trade fair and entice merchants to visit, trade, and invest in Cascade Springs. She is most enthusiastic about this task, and will be contacting the merchants she knows to explain the economic advantages to having a thriving trade hub in Halfshav lands. For the trade fair, she's looking to highlight both local goods AND local purses - bringing in a variety of vendors of attractive trade items the North doesn't see very often for the locals to buy, while ensuring locals have the chance to display their best goods and argue their case for building new exchanges so that the Oathlands and South can receive those goods at profitable prices. To bolster the pitch, she's even purchasing and setting up her own trading house to run in Cascade Springs, having been promised a discount on the land/building, and reduced tariffs and tolls on select goods for the next two years.

The Bruvir family (Draven, Nova, and Flop) have put together 500 styled (economic styled) with which they start up a second home with a shop front in Cascade Springs. They ultimately combine their Alchemy and Medicine (Draven) along with their Security and Survival (Nova & Flop) for a thriving business which hopefully improves the living conditions of their purchasing patrons.
Besides this, Nova and Flop routinely participate in security work around the Halfshav township, too, making sure to be threat detectors/deterrants of the highest degree and team up to consistently report their observant findings!

Bethany brings with her the considerable weight of the Mercier trade family, who will be using Cascade Springs as a trading hub through which they'll be able to expand to new, totally untapped markets in the north. Having supervised the initial phase of construction, Bethany knows the nuts and bolts of the nascent city well enough to make sure that her family has every possible advantage, something she will use to entice them there.

Brianna will be taking care of the military presence in Cascade Springs, trying to keep people who are working and building safe. The family has employed various sellswords and has gathered a small troop to assist. There will be patrols through the area, keeping an eye out for people who shouldn't be on site, with guards stationed at buildings and build sites.

With prior agreements having been made with the Crafter's Guild, Morrighan's role is that of Assistant Guildmaster and Seamstress. She gathers members of the Guild, and with the help of Princess-Consort Donella Redrain (who does most of the talking), conveys the benefits and deal to those willing to uproot and make the move to the new township in the Northlands. Secondly, the dame is hard at work, creating a stunning piece to represent and honor both Cascade Springs and the Goddess Mangata. In a variety of sizes for toddlers up to adults, Morrighan provides hooded cloaks made of the finest wool found in the Northlands, dyed in a swirling sea-hued gradation, and lined with sumptuous white fur. The hem and edges are embellished with silver embroidery taking the form of crashing waves, and upon the back is an intricately embroidered silver emblem: an image of two streams coming to meet as one, and in the background is a mountain region with the sun beginning to rise over them with Mangata's likeness found in the sky. It's completed with a clasp of faceted aquamarine set in a pewter setting, shaped into a drop of water.

Vercyn is going to set up shop in Cascade Springs itself with a veritable army of messengers. He means to co-ordinate the efforts of the expansion of cascade springs, sending word and receiving it from his central location. He wants to make certain that things run at peak efficency and so they are well informed of any emergencies or shortage of workers or supplies.

Lady Acantha Clearlake has been asked to help with the more Diplomatic things concerning Cascade Springs. She's also good with campaigning on why it's a good place to visit/move/pilgrimage to. She's going to promote the township. She's also going to provide silver and social writs to make sure things go smoothly with the talking. Why should people move there? It is secure, it has trade, there are jobs, and new goods from the Compact. Why should people trade with the town? It's on the river, it's safer than the great road, and we secure trade routes to and from the shrine town. Also the largest shrine in the northlands to Mangata is there so it is also a pilgrimage site.

Per the deal with Halfshav, Lore is investing money and resources into a warehouse and storefront where Artiglio can sell and trade their goods and materials with a people they don't often have access to. Artiglio can expect a reduced rate on rents and import/export tariffs for two years, and will further invest additional resources into making the warehouse/storefront look more appealing as well as bring in some early goods to get a jumpstart on sales. Extra resources have also been invested into spreading word of this new trading hub and the store carrying special and exotic goods and materials. She is looking to set up an Artiglio cousin to run the operation but will be hiring locals for general labor and to apprentice in the merchant trade.

Dame Thena sends a number of veteran Knights of Solace to guard the supply trains to Cascade Springs, and to train the guard and other troops in the finer points of guarding the roads. She also donates silver from the Solace coffers.

Once notable for charitable works in the lowers, Donella attempts to help the effort by speaking to craftspeople known to live and/or work there of the advantages of life in a new settlement. It's cold in the north, but the air is fresh and clean, and the coin flows at a higher rate where there are not so many competitors for business. More space for families to grow, and for apprentices and journeymen to establish themselves. Better to be a big fish in a smaller pond, than a minnow in a reeking, massive fen.

Draven does his absoulte best to help Scout Rowenova, the best Wife ever, set up their home and their shop in Cascade Springs. He has already gotten his documentation on what herbs are in the area, so he is using the data to get a good idea on how to help people the most, with that.

As a representative of his family and their brewery that has up until now largely only been serving their drinks in Whitehold proper, Sven is investing time, effort and resources(400 econ) in making sure that visitors and residents in Cascade Springs will have access to some of the best spirits in the north.

Cascade Springs is becoming the fastest growing, most significant new settlement in all of the Northlands, and Halfshav lands are expanding enormously in terms of economic strength because of its tremendous growth and improvement. The security of the town, despite the strength of Halfshav forces, was by no means guaranteed. Perhaps the single greatest drawback of the Great Road is how swiftly powerful shav forces can travel along it, and it is a testament to the skill of Brianna, Ajax, Thena, and Rowenova that both the town and the roads leading to it stay secure. The fact the town grows in the wild, uninhibited Northlands without routine friendly brawls turning into something much more serious is a further sign of their great influence.

Waves of crafters and artisans, representatives of the Crafters Guild of Arx, head to Cascade Springs at the behest of Dame Morrighan and Princess-Consort Donella Redrain. The booming nature of Cascade Springs does put housing at a premium, and the amount of craftsmen coming up from Arx lets Cascade Springs almost keep up with demand, though it's still quite tight.

Carita uses her experience in rebuilding Darkwater masterfully, which is most visible in working with the different Northlands merchants who are starting the different businesses that will keep contributing to long term growth of Cascade Springs, particularly the families from far more distant parts of the Compact. Among those many merchants and businessmen and women of the Compact are Sven, Vincenzo, Perronne, Bethany, Lore, and Draven- each of whom are helping grow their own interests there.

Softest Whisper Gianna opening a branch of the Bard's College in Cascade Springs is wildly popular, as the Northlands have long had a disproportionately high representation among bards historically. The college branch opening is praised throughout the Northlands, and taken as a sign of the Whisper House's esteem, which is much appreciated.

As word spreads from Acantha's and Mirk's propaganda efforts, people from all over the Compact are coming to have a look at the town. Of course, whether the tone can sustain its growth and support the booming population it has long term is an open question, but for now it's tremendously successful.

Much like those who came before her in preparation for the ritual to cleanse primum, Morrighan has produced thirteen items to commit to the flames. Each has been made by her hand (obviously not the fabric itself), large tapestries of elaborate needlepoint embroidery. Though not a painter, she has created art in a different fashion - the fabric her canvas, the needle her brush, and the various threads and colored glass beads used in the creations - her paint. They all display a different scene, but there's a common theme among them, of not only what's important to her, but in what they promote. Of her vision for the Dream. A world that's safe, a view of safety and protection, of comfort and family, a view of magic and unrestricted knowledge, a view of love and loyalty, creativity and determination, of being strong, either of will or body. Together it paints a vision of a better world, kinder and filled with love and family, where the means to learn magic is widely available, so all that's important can be better protected and defended from evil, as those who came before had done.

Attention to detail has been paid with these thirteen tapestries, each stitch meticulous, every thread carefully chosen for color and brilliance, every sparkling glass bead placed for a visual impact, and combined they create stunning imagery that in and of itself is artwork.

Lord Arik Halfshav takes the time to review the tapestries that Morrighan has created. Whatever he sees in the artwork he goes *huh* quite a bit. Prior to the actual ritual he would take a trip to the Stone Grove to focus on the tale the images told before coming to support the Sword of Farhaven's efforts.

Donella's parents left her instructions before their death. Vague instructions, true, but the spirit was clear: She was to help leave the world better if she could. In this instance, she can, and so she will, as a witness and supporter to Morrighan's ritual. Prior to the event she will isolate herself in a dim, quiet place for a few hours, to compose herself and sharpen her mind to focus on the effigies and Morrighan's vision for what should be.

Sir Floppington sets up as a perimeter guard for the magical ritual. Meanwhile, Scout Rowenova Bruvir of the Ranging Wolves will be doing the magical ritual, herself. She thoroughly prepares by carefully observing all the wonderful tapestries, too, along with scribing down her friend's visions for The Dream which will be rest before her to be easily seen during the ensuing magic which will take place, to make sure that no matter what distracting poison there may be, she will not lose focus.

Joscelin takes her time studying every tapestry, looking it over not just with the critical eye of an artisan, but a woman who understands the vision behind the made world, having glimpsed many times the fingerprints inherent in the world around her, the world she exists in, the many touches of beauty and love by them that created it. Whether she's successful in 'Seeing' those markers and fingerprints now, she wears her seashell necklace, the one that first helped her see the World, the Dream underneath this one, in the hopes that it might help her focus on being there for Morrighan, to help her hone the intent her dear friend has bent upon.

Morrighan gathers those close to her and begins her ritual. There's something about the tapestries that catches the eye - not just because of the needlepoint, but because of something ineffable upon them that draws attention. Each is a different scene, and rather than explaining each one audibly, Morrighan presents them together, sacrificing each one in turn to the flames.

The scenes are family. A world that's safe, protected. Comfort and family are there waiting, magic and unrestricted knowledge as a woman sits in the archives of Vellichor and reads. Love and loyalty, Creativity and determination. It's a good, safe, happy vision.

But as she gives each one to the ritual there is something else there. A wistful sorrow - this is a world that Morrighan has never known. These are her dreams for a better future than her past. And the sorrow and loneliness of dreaming and reaching for a thing so long denied is a poignant, bitter pill.

But as the flames consume the tapestries, a voice speaks from the flames. "Daughter, you will always have family." And then the flames flash for joy and salamanders leap from them and circle the room, and the flame grows as it consumes the last tapestry and takes the shape of an ancient elemental. And suddenly the room is filled with warmth, and hearth, and the welcome of home.

And then the ritual is done, and peace is left in its wake.

At his family's urging, Mirk has brokered deals to secure the necessary help to start the project of creating a proper township out of the small settlement growing up around the Great Northern Shrine to Mangata, at the origin of the Grey River in the runoff of the White Peak Mountains (see: Halfshav landmarks at http://play.arxmush.org/topics/org/54/). A month of meetings and promises had gone into the project, before he so much as turned his eyes to the North.

It's a massive undertaking, involving numerous people and resources, but with the flow of support, hopefully it will be the beginning of a prosperous township, called Cascade Springs.

As the first step, Mirk will clear out land around the settlement and secure the site with fortifications. This will also require investment in housing for soldiers and construction crews.

Mirk will be leading the entire project, but he will also oversee the land clearance personally. He will bring in foremen and workers as necessary, but his goal is to organize the residents of the settlement to do as much as possible, and he'll offer them silver and favors to secure their service - this village elder gets a position in the new township, that one places his niece as a House servant, and so on. He will bring in offerings to the spirits for each place where brush must be cleared out or a tree cut down, while consulting with the planners and engineers to insist that nature must be preserved wherever possible. It will be a delicate balancing act, but one Mirk is confident that he can accomplish.

An overview of the rest of the project:
* During the land clearance, Kace will survey likely farmlands, and Draven will harvest and catalogue herbs from the countryside for local apothecaries.
* Construction, overseen by Bethany, of wooden fortifications designed by Vercyn, with Tesha's assistance. They'll begin with a small palisade around the settlement, and expand to include the entirety of the planned township. It'll also include modest housing and other infrastructure needed to support a population of soldiers and workers, such as the beginnings of an expensive chapterhouse for Violet's Crimson Blades.
* Establishment of a military presence in the area under Arik. He and Taldolf will train guards to man the fortifications, while Rowenova will provide scout support to locate potential threats. Violet will lead Crimson Blade mercenaries on patrol to keep Shav tribes away from the settlement, while Harlex leads soldiers on surgical strikes where threats are identified.
* Import deals and support from allied Houses to secure building materials, military stockpiles, and necessary supplies. Sasha and Tesha will provide this support, and Mirk will add his own favors and resources to facilitate their efforts.
* Whispers will spread news of the settlement and its upcoming expansion throughout Halfshav lands, with Juniper as their point of contact. This will draw people - and workers - to the settlement.

Lord Arik Halfshav the Sword of Whitehold supports the township project by seeing to the training of the longterm town guards with Taldolf. The pair of them drill the guards on things to watch for, shav tactics, the way Halfshav expects the law to be handled in the town, and other forms of honor and discipline. Once the guards are trained and their martial skills approved by Arik they are handed off to Scout Rowenova for some field experience during construction.

Marquessa Sasha Sanna answers the Halfshav call for investment in the township project. Not only does she aid with financial favors but she aids in seeing ever silver and favor called due for supplies goes just a little bit further. She has a mine for economics and trade and utilizes it thoroughly to increase the efficacy of the entire project from the clearing of the land to the hiring of labor to the supplying of food and equipment. If there is a ledger Sasha has her hands on it and is ensuring everything is following a common sense approach.

Tesha travels north with the Halfshavs and assists Duke Vercyn on the fortifications. While he handles the overall design of the fortifications, she adds in details such as arrow holes, strategic spots for burning pitch atop the wall, or signaling methods to quickly convey information between the troops. With those added insights and refinements on his design, she conveys the plans to those in charge of the construction and insures that their vision for the fortifications is realized.

Scout Rowenova and Sir Flop (the soulful hound) are prime spotters on the trip North, making sure commanding individuals are swiftly notified about any potential benefits/hazards. Upon finally arriving, these two lead forth those trained guards (from Arik and Taldolf) to scout out hunting grounds and any nearby shav tribes. She draws up detailed reports concerning all the surrounding terrain (good and/or bad) for future roads which will go toward Whitehold (and eastward, too). While staying attentive to Nature's needs, the whole group sustainably fishes/hunts (new stock being given over to Bethany), too. During breaks/camping, she helps out with verbal/written translation for whatever Draven might need to clearly communicate, also making sure he and everyone else is staying safe with survival advice and so on for good health.

Commander Taldolf takes a break from his duties to House Sanna to support House Halfshav's newest expansion efforts. While Lord Arik is taking the lead on training the new longterm guards for the settlement the Sanna Commander is helping keep the women and men being trained in line. Proper motivation and passing along orders from Arik to other trainees to ensure communication is open and well understood by the recruits.

Juniper travels with the Halfshavs up the river. Her purpose is to speak to those they meet along the way, recruiting settlers and workers. Charming to a fault and willing to speak to anyone, she mingles as if born to the area and targets those looking to make a change in their life, or contribute to something greater than they've ever done before. The benefits of the settlement are extolled, as are the merits of the organizers, their foresight and vision. It isn't all just rainbows and unicorn farts-- she's practical and down to earth about the challenges such an enterprise faces, having come from humble origins herself-- but she's an adept at finding ways to balance descriptions of hardship with the good which can come of uprooting to join the settlement. To lend credence to her efforts, she comes armed with letters of introduction and other outside resources provided by Halfshav and their allies, and she will also be deploying 200 of her own social resources as a glamourous (but relatable!) Whisper and common girl made good.

Bethany brings her financial acumen and skill at people-wrangling to act as a steward of personnel for the project. Like a conductor overseeing a grand symphony, she makes sure that supplies and workers get where they need to be when they need to be there, everything runs on schedule, and the construction generally hums along with the brisk efficiency that she expects in all aspects of her work. She brings in assistants from her own family, people who she knows well and knows that they know what they're doing and will get the job done.

Kace will be travelling upriver witht he Halfshavs to look over the land around the burgeoning town. She will be checking soil and grass quality to determine where is best suited for farmlands, where would be the best grazing land for herds, the best spots along the river for fishing, and where to clear out space for a lumber yard as well as a barracks and training yard. In addition, she will be seeking out any potential underground water sources that the city can tap into, as well as any possible hotsprings that may run beneath the city.

Duke Vercyn could hardly miss the expansion of the Great Northern Shrine to Mangata. Not only is he a publicly devout member of the Pantheon but this may be the largest construction effort in Halfshav history and it is under his tenure as Duke with his own nephew doing a fair bit of the work. His primary goal is to use his vast experience as a military commander and war chief to design the fortifications and guard assignments so that they are organized in the optimal fashion with the right width and height to the walls, the correct number of towers, and enough guardsmen for the township and wall. In addition his personal participation is a validation that this is indeed the will of House Halfshav and a new chapter in the growth of the domain underneath his families leadership. Also he names the town: Cascade Springs

After a discussion with Lord Mirk and coordinating with the Commandant's efforts closer to the settlement, Harlex intends to take a group of mercenaries ahead of the caravans set to venture to the settlement. Their goal? Preemptive strikes. Scouting and clearing out ambush raiders/highwaymen that lie in wait for the traveling merchants, workman, and settlers. It's much more effective than waiting for those ambushes to spring, potentially frightening off commerce. While the caravans are protected, he coordinates riding out with his soldiers to take down any impending threats, traveling up and down the routes; eliminating targets and generally being a suppression force against would-be attackers of the caravans should they be shav, brigands, or others. Specifically only those who seek to harm or destabilize the routes of the new settlement. They utilize the tactics inherit to their Company; swift, precise, and deadly when provoked to violence. All in the purpose of making sure those deep pockets aren't scared off from the township by frequent attacks.

In terms of military and protection for the building project, Halfshav has hired the Crimson Blades. Especially since part of the new building of the town will include a new chapter house for the Mercenary Company. So Violet herself spends her time in the area. Working as hard as her soldiers and making sure that the protection of the budding settlement is secure. But more importantly making connections with those who are building it. And those who will probably one day live there, or already do. Building bridges for the future of the Blades.

Scouts are sent out ahead of clearing parties. Making sure there are no dangers, human or otherwise, for the new township. Violet herself goes and patrols the area with her troops. They take great care in their sweeps. Never attacking right away unless absolutely necesarry. However problems -are- dealt with swiftly and with the precision and care the company has been known for. Attacking the problem with tactics rather than just lots of muscle and weapons.

Perhaps much to the dismay to the soldiers he is going with, being allowed to tag along on with the Halfshav party has only left the incredibly energetic Draven even more excited. Quite simply, he can't seem to sit still throughout nearly the entire journey, and the only time he stops talking is when he is sleeping. Everyone in the whole group will have heard about the differences between Things and Stuff at least a hundred times, and none of what Draven says really will make much sense unless translated by someone who knows him well. Then, however, when they get to where he can start his work, they see a whole new person left in his place. When Draven is left to do what he came to, Alchemy and Herbalism, he is entirely dedicated and focused, even if none of the notes he makes in his log make any sense to anyone. He was tasked to help catalog the plantlife in the new township, and to help treat the sick and injuired along the way, which he actually does exceptionally well.

Construction on a new township in Halfshav lands, a place called Cascade Springs, has finally been completed. Under the guidance of Lord Mirk Halfshav, the entirety of the project has been overseen carefully. Princess Kace works hand in hand with Rowenova and her faithful hound to scout the area, selecting the perfect place to build. Marquessa Sasha answers the Halfshav call for investing in the township. Lord Arik supports the project by sending guards he has personally trained to see to its new town defenses, managed and directed by Commander Taldolf.

Duke Vercyn works with the designers to create defenses for the new township, with Lady Tesha assisting him. To add to the defenses, Commander Violet and Harlex Valtyr work to establish a barracks for the Crimson Blades nearby. And Bethany Mercier is established as the steward of this new township, with Draven doing whatever alchemical things a Draven does best. And as Juniper Whisper leads the social scene in talking about all these goings on, it's clear that the township is the talk of the town.

All in all it's a huge success, and the new Cascade Springs is established with care and precision.

Prince Victus and a team of trusted warriors head north, to the lands of Crovane after being told by their Marin'alfar friends that there is a companion in danger. Their objective is to retrieve Venteri alive and get the fuck outta there as soon as possible. Smash and grab is the preferred route here. They will be taking a warship (dromond) and four longships as escort. The team that will make the rescue itself will be comprised of Victus, Valerio, Marian, Arik, Luca and Barric. Others will stay ashore in the North to receive them and provide healing or back-up if it's necessary.

They will also be bringing along the following tools by the grace of Princess Katarina, Cobalt's Compass and Cobalt's Lantern. It's hoped they'll light the way to Venteri and back home safe. Hoped.

Prince Barric is going to travel north with the rest of the rescue team and prepare to do bloodshed. Given the speed in which the team wants to move (And because metal sinks in the ocean) he will use his leather armor. When the fighting starts he will use Elvesbane and focus entirely on smashing, and grabbing. He will prioritize protecting whomever is holding the Compass and the Lantern at all times so that the group has the best chance of success.

Marshal Mazetti will of course travel with the team Prince Victis assembles. Valerio also ensures that there is a selection of the Guardian elite there to choose from, and makes some of the Ostrian navy ready for use as needed. Either to the mission directly, or to patrol where Prinnce Victis decides in order replace the Thraxian units utilized.

Cora will be staying back in a secondary camp as support. A sword if needed and a healer if needed but not part of the main team. She will be ready to assist as necessary.

Alarissa will be traveling only as far as the secondary camp where the group is set to fall way back to after they have found and rbought back Venteri and any of the other Marin'Alfar that Venteri was sent to find, if they are alive. With skills in patching people up as well - not near as fabled as a mercy or even a member of the physicians guild - and organization, she'll be working int andem with Coraline to ensure that all is ready for when the group makes their way back and be ready to move if they need to seriously fall back even further because of stuff (tm).

Princess Marian doesn't have any sailing skills so she'll primarily assist in the rescue and fighting their way out of their if need be. She'll be outfitted in her exotic leather and using Second Chance for her weapon. She will bring her bow, Artos, in case there's long distance fighting. She will work in tandom with Barric to make sure the Compass and Lantern are covered at all times

Luca's coming along for this smash and grab adventure that promises a chance at both challenge and death. He'll be armored in his mix of exotic leathers and steelsilk, and carrying both his alaricite blade and his ancient-forged Cobalt blade. The mission is to rescue Venteri, and so that's what he will focus on. The only two things that will break his stride in cutting down whatever stands between his group and Venteri is if Marian Redrain is likely to lose her life, or if Barric Grayson manages to lose Elvesbane (by death or accident, you know), wherein he'll attempt to recover it, the thing being Grayson's heirloom sword and all.

Arik Halfshav is going with the group to rescue Venetri. Like as not he'll be focused on Venetri's safety as well as ensuring the artifacts are not lost on the trip. Some mix of steel and leathers will be in his gear and Frostfang will be in hand.

A ship returns to the port in Arx and a somber delegation disembarks. High Lord Victus, Princess-Consort Alarissa, Princess Coraline, Lord Arik, Prince Luca and Princess Marian walk down the gangplank. With them are two bodies - Prince Barric Grayson and Lord Valerio Mazetti rest on wooden planks, carried by their companions off the ship. Rumors fly - they left on a mission of mercy, a rescue mission. And though they were successful it was not without great cost. They say Lord Valerio died standing between Lord Arik and danger, selflessly giving his life that his companion could live. Rumor has it he saw the Shining Lands as he died, and his final words were a greeting to his long-dead, beloved wife. And Prince Barric? Beset by controversy and rumor, it is said he was firm in the face of danger, courageous against the evils of the abyss (surely that is hyperbole, but the peole nod anyway because it makes a better story), and that his final words were to confirm his loyalty and love for his family. "None Greater Than Grayson," he said as he fell.

Seax and company will travel north and begin in the eastern pass. From there they will progress west, stopping in whitehold, and all other Halfshav settlements and villages. At each location they will reach out to the people. They will speak of defending their lands, their families, their way of life. They will tell of the threats forming against the North. They will offer hope through strength. Seax especially will be speaking of the Noble Savages, a unit of men and women formed on the words of House Halfshav to protect each village and each settlement. When necessary they will also attack those that threaten Whitehold lands, wiping them out. He will provide a brief explanation of how such a unit of soldiers can be effective in his speeches.

The High lord of the Northlands will accompany the Halfshav progress through their holdings with his retinue. This time, he will leave it to the Halfshav lords to reach the hearts and minds of their people. Instead Darren will apply his not-inconsiderable resources and experience to recruiting and forming the Noble Savages in the wake of Seax's speeches. The High lord will see to the administration, formation and supply of these units, leaving behind the defensive force the Halfshavs envisioned.

The Sword of Whitehold is supporting his cousin on his first independent progress through the Halfshav lands. He is there to show that the War Minister explicitly endorses the formation of a home guard in the Noble Savages but instead of making speeches he is meeting with township and settlement leaders. He is charming if blunt with them as is his way. He speaks of the winter months, asks about raids or difficulties, and mentions the newly prodigal tribe of White Fox to each of the settlements. His primary purpose besides reaching out to the leadership of the settlements is to ensure that volunteers are properly equipped and housed.

Marquessa Sasha Sanna is a loyal vassal to House Halfshav and speaks passionately to the people at each stop. Her approach is less militaristic and more social. She appeals to the safety the Noble Savages will provide. She gushes about the honor they will bring to the families of those who serve. It's all glowing and bright in the future where they heed Lord Seax Halfshav's vision, according to Sasha anyway.

It's not easy to get started, but with the help of Prince Darren, Marquess Sasha, and Lord Arik, Lord Seax managed to start getting the word out. Using Prince Darren's resources, Seax buys a Siege Weapon and then sets the propaganda machine in motion. Arik and Sasha are working on it and it does in fact lure people, knowing that they'll be well equipped and well armed. The first few recruits are an exciting development, and though more will be needed for this army to truly be fearsome, it's a good beginning.

Princess Marian Redrain wants her people to be prepared to defend themselves for whatever comes next. She recognizes in times of peace our soldiers need to have activities to keep their skills honed. With the permission of High Lord Darren, Marian is going to create bands of 4 to 6 soldiers that are skilled in matters of warfare and then send them to the various villages in Redrain to start training their people how to fight. For those that show a gift for the sword, these villagers will be invited to join the Redrain military. Veterns who no longer can actively serve will be given an opportunity to take up training positions so the knowledge can be continued after these initial groups return to the army. In addition, Marian herself will be traveling with High Lord Darren, Princess Gwenna and an retinue of nobles to deliver the pensions and oversee this training.

While Marian and Gwenna handle the training and administration, Darren will be delivering the pensions directly to the families of the fallen in each and every place the delegation visits. He will take the time to console losses and thank families for their ultimate sacrifice. He won't be giving fancy speeches or raining empty platitudes, but having simple, genuine conversations. He will hug widows and kiss babies in an effort to be seen and felt by his people.

While boasting no martial prowess herself, Gwenna will instead encourage those in the villages toward learning to fight to defend themselves or honing their skills. For those who show promise and might hedge on joining the Redrain military, she reminds them of their chance at history, of serving along side the legendary Marian should they choose to join. She will listen to the tales told by the veterans who can no longer serve and how important it is that they share these stories and their knowledge with the next generation. Lastly, she will take time to speak with the families once they receive their pensions, sincerely wanting to learn more about their loved ones who were lost. Gwenna's role will be that of listener, encourager to the people, and support to both Marian and Darren as they travel.

Arik is not a chipper man and nor is he a diplomat. As the main group goes forth to hand out pensions Arik is part of the soldiers that are sent from place to place to train those willing to join the Redrain Military. Arik makes no secret that he is the Sword of Whitehold and a Halfshav Lord supporting his liege. During his time with the commonfolk he challenges them if a Lord from hundreds of miles away can come and help why can they who live on Redrain lands not step up. Any who answer the challenge get pointers from the man along with suggestions on what weapons would best suite them. He doesn't spend more than fifteen minutes per willing serf. Simple iron weapons are provided by Arik himself until supplies run out!

Lydia will accompany Marian, Gwenna and Darren to deliver pensions. If Lydia gets the opportunity, she will "spar" with those who come to learn... she's not a very physical character, but not everyone they meet will be a gladiator and she might just learn something herself, make friends, and find connections. She is young and will encourage those like her that the world will rise up to meet them if they step up and take part in it, as she herself is evidence of this.

Donella will accompany her husband as he delivers the pensions personally, following suit by breaking into personal conversations with those that come forward. She will listen to their problems and try to make them spread the word of how their sacrifice was important for the realm and how House Redrain will not forget about those who shed blood for their cause. During her conversations, she'll try to show how joining the army will protect them all in the long run and how a strong, big and unified army will guarantee fewer losses.

Under the direction of their Warlord Princess Marian, the Redrain family makes a tour of their lands. High Lord Darren delivers pensions to those who lost family members in the recent fight against the Pirate King. He offers words of encouragement and genuine conversations. These are not speeches for the masses, they're private words that show how much his heart lies with his people. With Princess Donella at his side, and Duchess Lydia Nightgold joining them, the trio reach out to those who have suffered losses and truly touched their hearts. "We mourn with you," is the message they offer. "We grieve. We grow closer. We will not forget. We will rebuild." It's a comforting message in this time of sorrow, and their genuine outreach is very well received.

Princess Marian takes the lead in recruiting now too. She spends time with people who might have an aptitude for swordwork. She encourages them to join the army. "This is how we protect what we love," she offers. She brings with her Princess Gwenna and Lord Arik Halfshav and together they offer to teach and test whoever is willing. Any of those who want to join the military and show an aptitude for it are offered a slot. Princesses Marian and Gwenna are quite well received - though Lord Arik comes across as not having much time for the people, his approach of "spend no more than fifteen minutes with each person" not exactly well received. And yet even with that social gaffe the three manage to see recruitment numbers swell.

On the whole, it's a successful trip, the Redrain army has new recruits, pensioners are taken care of, and the royal family of Redrain (and friends!) is spoken of fondly as they see to the needs and the hearts of their people.