Preston has announced the formation of the First Eurusi Crusade to fight to defend the east and to purge the Mourning Isles of the Eurusi threat, their allies and their heresy. He has ordered the Seraphs to levy their Templars and begin to muster - though given the threats that exist in the land, he is not asking them to strip the shrines bear of defenders, but to send those they can - around 1 in 3, which based on the Gyre levy is around 50,000.

Unfurling the crusade banners stored in the armoury - and repairing the moth damage, and no doubt uttering a curse about moths - Preston will lead a service at the Great Cathedral, with full orthodox rites and a nice massed choir singing the canticles. Here he will lead the faithful in a call for the Gods to give their blessing for the undertaking, to strengthen the sword arms of those who stand with the Faith, to harden the will of our troops to stand against the horrors they will see, and pledging a Crusade in the name of the Gods and in obedience to all their commands - to protect the innocent, to free the slaves. One fought with Gloria's honour and the Sentinel's justice, and in pursuit of Skald's choice for all. The banners in procession will be lowered to Orazio to bless, so each Templar company can march into battle with a banner touched by the Most Holy. Preston will spend the 24 hours after the service and before the march in the Great Cathedral in quiet prayer, kneeling in simple linens with Crusader, repeating Templar prayers to Gloria for guidance, swearing by her cause and forgoing food and drink.

Preston will also be impressing on the Templar and other commanders that prisoners are to be treated with honour. Those who are slaves are to be taken to special camps with the Liberators, where they can be shown how to be free, and hopefully released to go back to Eurus once we find a way, to share their hope and their freedom with their fellow people. A thousands sparks to light a thousand fires.

The Lycene and Thrax have confirmed that they can reach Sungreet before the Eurusi arrive, so Preston seizes this chance, Preston will load that first third of the order onto ships at various points along the Arvum shore so that an army can make it to land at Sungreet. Preston has agreement from the Lyceum, Isles, Grayson and Redrain as well as the Faith fleets to help get the Templars across. The Seraph having been recalled by the mission led by Ailith, Preston will invite Duke Ivan to meet with him. He will make clear that the Faith is no longer bound by Guest Right and the Templars are here to resist the Eurusi. If Duke Ivan has not re-conciled with the Faith during actions by Ailith, Preston will give him a final chance to recant and reject the Eurusi. If not, Preston will as Carnifex declare Ivan an Apostate and invoke the old rights of the Faith, where Templars have removed nobles from power who are no longer in communion with the Faith and so beyond the Compact. The formal succession is a matter for Victus, but Preston will make it clear to the heir that he will have Templar support in his claim if he rejects his father's path and will stand Helianthus against the Eurusi and revoke the offer of safe harbour his father made. Preston will be relying in these talks with Ivan and his heir on the diplomats they have brought with them. Unless Duke Ivan forces the matter, Preston will try to keep him alive and imprisoned to be returned for trial.

Regardless, the Templars will take Sungreet and hold it against attack - hopefully with help from the Isles. Preston will bring siege engines up just to counter fire at any siege weapons they employ, but largely he is dependent on the levies having come from across Arvum. When Eurus arrive, he will seek to make clear to them that those who offered them sanctuary no longer are in the position for that - but in the name of the Gods, they may depart back to Eurus in peace. Dame Ida is named Master of the Siege Train.

If they are defeated at Sungreet, they will try to fall back if they can to the eastern coast and the Grayson war camps, where hopefully the rest of the Templar and Crusade muster should have gathered.

Freshly minted as a Knight Marshal, Katryn has little time to grow into the role before having to muster a response to the Eurusi aggression. The wisdom of her betters in tactics leads her to believe that Preston's arrangement of coastal defense and holdfasts - and the swelling of defense and patrol forces - would be a valuable use of troops, provisions, and supplies.

Troops she does not have before entreating her uncle, Philippe Blanchard. By his leave, Katryn pledges and commands the Chevalle Legionairre east, speeding men to the aid of the softer coastal areas. In addition, she accepts Philippe's tithe to the Crusade: a sizeable chunk of military provisions - rations, hardtack, spare weapons and assorted materiel - and practical products for conducting a mobile defense. Katryn adds her own accumulated resources to the task of erecting fresh watch posts and relays, ensuring the coastal lands are shored up and ready to deflect raiding attacks that are expected.

While he remains in the city -- before he heads off on his diplomatic mission -- Alban is going to be doing the work of preparing for the Crusade as best he can. Mustering the troops, speaking publicly on the Glory of fighting for the Faith, and organizing supplies from his own resources as he can provide. He has offered his services fully to Preston for the duration, and is entirely committed to helping prepare for war.

As it is possible they will have to defend Sungreet, Ida has been tasked with preparing the parts of the siege engines so that they might be transported and bolted together quickly on site. Where they might go and who will be setting them up is not up to her; the Templars have very skilled and knowledgeable people who take care of that. She will simply make sure all of the parts are in order and prepare them to be packed efficiently should they need to be used. She will also be on hand to help put them together and lend her strength to moving them, if need be. Not all knights wear shining armor, after all; some wear a simple smith's hammer on their belt.

Raja is not an up in your face combat jocky. However, she /is/ more of a slink around and stab in the back sort of gal. She will help with information gathering and keeping an ear to the streets so to speak. She will offer her body and blade and whatever resources she can spare to help with this endeavor.

Tescelina joins with the Grandmaster of the Templars as a Disciple of Gloria. A knight of the Oathlands, she's prepared to protect others and engage in any hard fighting. But she is not there as an oppressor, or a conqueror, the innocent lives of the people of Sungreet and any Eurusi they come across she will of course take prisoner before anything else. Armed with her alaricite sword and her knightly regalia, she's as ready to be the vision of chivalry as she is to be its instrument.

While Teagan is no combatant, she has served on war councils. She is a member of the Academy of War and a student of strategy. However, she is also a diplomat. She will join Preston in his Crusade -- having been a steady supporter of the Templars -- bringing along a number of the Blackram Stonegiants and the Direhorns they have trained. While she is present to serve as a tactical leader and the Cloudspine forces are present to help if it should turn to battle, she is also there to provide her presence and voice in any diplomatic proceedings.

Oili pledges herself to the Crusade under Preston's banner. Prior to going, she runs around to have a diamondplate bow fashioned and gather as many medical supplies for the crusade and Saving Grace as she can.

On the night before they leave, she'll make a last farewell to her family, beseaching them to join her on the journey. Oili doesn't take much. Her robes, cloak, and as many medical supplies as she can stuff into a bag. She's not expecting to get into a fight. If she does, she's ready to join her ancestors. She'll sneak off to a secluded spot and spend some time dancing around a fire, singing traditional songs, and praying to her gods, the spirits of the world - of everything around her. She doesn't ask for a blessing for herself. Instead, she asks the world to watch after the templars and warriors going off to fight the Eurusians and their abyssals. She asks for their protection, not her own.

Engaged in battle, she'll setup a battlefield clinic where Preston or the chain of command tells her to. She's seen war, the chaos of battle is no stranger to her. Wherever she goes, she'll get to people that need healing and patch them up. Hopefully, she'll be able to give someone the chance to go home that might not have had it.

"Gloria guide us,
Steady our sword arms to strengthen them;
Fly above us to keep our heads held high;
Hold beneath us so we keep our feet planted;
Run before us to lead us and behind us to
restrain us;
Around us to shield us;
Within us that we strike true and with honor.
In your name we meet our enemy,
In your name we will defeat them,
Yours is the glory
Ours the victory."

The entreat to Gloria was spoken over and over, once the banners of the Templar Order were cleaned and repaired the Dominus took his time in ensuring each was blessed individually as a symbol of hope and reinforcement of morale amidst the Faith Militant. Orazio stands beside Preston during the service he holds at the Great Cathedral, standing as a staunch presence in the midst of traditional orthodox rites.

In addition, the Most Holy sets aside time to specifically spend with Templars here in the city preparing for the excursion to Sungreet. He speaks with them, eats with them, laughs with them and most importantly -- he listens to them. Their fears, their hopes, their faith. The weeks leading up to the deployment, the Dominus can be found in the Shrine of Gloria or the Templar Compound devoting his personal time getting to know the men and women risking their lives for this cause.

Princess Sabella is no Templar and she's certainly not skilled with a blade, but what she is very, very good at is seeing all sides of a situation and making impassioned arguments and pleas to try to get people to agree to at least some terms in order to avoid bloodshed. She's along on this little venture specifically to try to talk Duke Ivan down. Let him know that surely while he thinks what he's doing is right, he needs to take a step back and look at what's happening around him. That she too wants to see this end diplomatically and the first step has to be with him. That he can still be a hero of this story, reconcile with the Faith, and keep the duchy in his family should his heir agree to Preston's offer. That a united Compact is a stronger Compact. All the delightful propaganda that might appeal to a man that's clearly looking to have his name in the history books--on the right side. The Compact's side. She is earnest and very, very good at making even unsavory outcomes sound promising. Which is good, because should things come to blows, well. She's there to make sure they don't. Best not to think about it!

Rysen, along with several hundred Crovane warriors and a number of large ships, join Preston on crusade under the Templar banner. He is present for the service in the Great Cathedral, dressed in Northland leathers, and cloaked in the white mantle of the Gold Order. His vigil is held in the Shrine of Lagoma, where he beseeches the Lady of Change for protection and courage in battle, as well as regenerative growth in the lives of the people of Sungreet and the Eurusi slaves who are forced into war.

Skilled in diplomacy, Rysen will serve in that capacity at Preston's pleasure, but should Ivan be declared an apostate, the Eurusi arrive in Sungreet, or both, the Knight of the Northlands, wielding a runed sword of black alaracite, and a rubicund arming sword adorned with shamanic motifs, joins any combat mission the Grand Master may assign him. With Victus's confirmation of Helianthus' role in the death of Asger, Rysen pours all of his blood, sweat and skill onto the battlefield, to bring justice for the murdered Crovane duke and victory to the Templars.

Prince Niklas Grayson on a crusade? Whaaaaaa? Well, it's his home turf! And he has a personal stake in it! So he's coming along with his wife to work as part of the Templars' small core of diplomats, looking to convince the locals of Sungreet that they're only there for the Eurusi and if Duke Ivan stands down and rescinds his invitation to the Prince of Skal'dajan then there will be no reason for any violence. It's all up to Ivan.

Prince Lorenzo Redrain has been sent on behalf of House Redrain to provide the support of the Redrain Navy, assisting the Templars in transporting troops and otherwise assisting their crusade effort. Although his natural empathy and diplomatic charm make going to war a surprising choice, Lorenzo demonstrates clear skills in both leadership and sailing abilities, ensuring the ships are shepherded safely, no matter the challenges. Additionally, his heartfelt belief that Skald's ideas of freedom (which he speaks about frequently, to any who listen) should be brought everywhere, including Eurus, give a certain heart to the journey, inspiring those who travel on the Redrain ships.

It takes precious time to muster the templars for a crusade, and time is in short supply. The forces of the Faith and the Compact are racing to reach Sungreet at Farmorn Point before the massive Eurusi fleet arrives, and templars as guardians of the Faith of the Pantheon are spread through every domain in the Compact of Arvum. But a crusade is called by the first Carnifex of the Faith in generations. Time they can barely afford is spent getting word to every seraph in every domain, who in turn organize their templars, who in turn march to rally points in ports. The logistics are challenging on a scale that few in the Compact can truly appreciate, involving tens of thousands of people and all of their own requirements, with hundreds of ships across hundreds of domains to carry soldiers, their armor, and even the potentially absolutely vital siege weapons overseen by Dame Ida Ferron, but in the end it all comes together with a frenetic haste.

Massive military troop movements are almost always a matter of 'hurry up and wait' and tradeoffs and sacrifices, with trying to make as good use of the time they have available as possible. During the time spent waiting on additional troops to arrive so they set sail, it's a time of moving speeches and solemn prayer. The Dominus Orazio speaks movingly of what is at stake, not just for the Compact but the world. Rysen leads prayers, with his Crovane troops giving homage to spirits of the wind and waves for safe travels, and prayers to the Gods of the Pantheon for much the same. Preston is leading his templars, and sees a glimmers of a fervor that has long been absent in the Compact. Blanchard, Blackram, Crovane, Farsaw along with thousands of templars come together, overseen by Katryn, Teagan, Rysen, Alban and Preston. And always weighing the risks of the Eurusi arriving faster than expected versus moving with too few, they sail.

As speed is critical in trying to reach Sungreet before the Eurusi arrive, there are some sacrifices made in organization. The Lycene fleet meets with the forces of House Thrax, and elements of the Grayson navy and Redrain and Crovane forces help with the shipping, but unless they are willing to risk arriving well after the Eurusi, there's simply not enough time to condense the forces or to instill the level of organization that would create a cohesive order of battle if it came to a massive fleet engagement with the Skal'dajans. Drills happen as they sail to Sungreet, and Lorenzo, Rysen, Preston, Teagan, Alban and Katryn do their best to keep the forces ready by the time they arrive, but anything requiring speed is going to be a matter of trade offs. But fortune is with them as the first signs of Farmorn Point are seen on the horizon- there are no Eurusi yet at Sungreet. The ships of House Helianthus and its vassals after tense moments do not contest the waters but the docks of Sungreet itself have been sealed with a mighty moving seawall, and so his forces make landfall on the beaches a short distance outside of the city. Speed, as always, is a decisive factor.

Thousands of Helianthus troops are there to meet them along with a voice, rather than Duke Ivan Helianthus himself, as the templars arrive on the beaches of Farmorn Point. Far more soldiers than to be expected, and the identity of the voice explains why. In a shockingly crass depature from Mourning Islander tradition, the Voice is the 'honorable' Sir Piotr Grimkin, a leader of the ill-reputed mercenary group the Undrowned Sons. A man of dark reputation even among sellswords, the newest Voice of House Helianthus was disowned by his family for having those who slighted him brutalized and murdered another noble in an honor duel. The companies of Undrowned Sons and House Helianthus are obviously arrayed for battle in a show of force, even if there is still a hope it can be resolved diplomatically. Preston and others waste little time seeing to his own order of battle, and the hope for peace shines brighter as the sellswords and Helianthus make no effort to contest this, without the bloody engagement that might be expected from a force trying to take advantage of the vulnerability of arriving on shore. Talks begin. Preston's demands are given, with the announcement of Duke Ivan Helianthus' formal excommunication reaching his immediate subjects and bannermen, and obvious surprise going through the ranks of some of his soldiers. The Faith's instructions for Duke Ivan's atonement is given, allowing him the chance to recant his views and deny the Eurusi harbor. Sir Piotr and his fellows speak about this at length, giving unacceptable counter offers, and how Duke Ivan needs time to consider the matter. Sabella is instrumental in trying to plead for peace and a diplomatic resolution, but House Helianthus keeps asking for more time to consider it. It becomes increasingly obvious to Sabella that they are trying to buy time for the Eurusi to arrive, and there's word reaching the Templar camps through informants like Raja that the Eurusi are close, and indeed some Arvani have even sailed ahead to meet with them. Sabella can tell they aren't attempting to negotiate in good Faith, and the decision falls upon Preston, who has been declared Carnifex, the supreme enforcer of the Faith.

So Sir Preston, Grandmaster of the Templars and Carnifex of the Faith, declares Duke Ivan Helianthus an apostate. For a long, tense moment it is dead silent on the beaches of Farmorn Point. Just for a moment.



It's not entirely clear who attacks first. Sir Piotr yells "UNDROWNED SONS!" and at the sound of a yell, templars and Helianthus soldiers alike draw steel. There's shouts from the city, and a slightly too pious Oathlands templar near Preston shouts, "DEATH TO APOSTATES!" Even as Preston turns to speak, the first arrows are flying in both directions as Sir Piotr Grimkin withdraws behind a raising wall of shield and spears. Shouts of "KNOCK, LOOSE!" are heard near ranks of archers, and no sooner do the first arrows begin to fall that Rysen is leading his Crovane warriors in a charge, in a desperate bid to stop the shield wall from fully forming up on advantageous ground. Undrowned Sons spearmen on an incline with archers behind them would be punishing if left uncontested, and there's hardly any time to think, as Rysen leads a desperate charge to cover the ground before the enemy can fully prepare themselves. With a valor that draws a roar of battlecries from his Crovane, Lord Rysen leaps into the wall of shield and spears, battering aside spears with deft skill and his dark alaricite sword cutting through shield and platemail as if it was parchment. A break in their line of spearmen form as his Crovane warriors pour through, routing one unit of archers on the closest hill as the battle truly begins.

Teagan on the rear lines is carefully studying the order of battle of House Helianthus and their sellswords, and patterns begin to emerge to her in their strategies. She is able to accurately predict several coordinated movements, and identify the meaning of trumpet calls. She's silent for a moment in intense calculation, and then issues quick orders to her Blackram troops. Blackram pike and archers form up on the far flank of the templars, which had been unthreatened and seems like a poor deployment and draws objections from some templars, which cut off as the thunderous sound of heavy cavalry round a hillside in a surprise bid to hammer the templar flank and try to roll up their lines. There's shout and screams as the cavalry impact brutally with hundreds of disciplined Blackram pikemen, who repulse the cavalry and inflict brutally heavy losses.



Preston leads the templar main advance and steady march towards the city gates of Sungreet, fighting inch by inch for ground as he steadily pushes back the main line of Helianthus and sellsword troops. With Crusader in hand, he cuts his way through Helianthus lines, the templars screaming 'GLORIA' around him. Several arrows hit Preston's rubicund armor, as he's taking fire as the commander, which doesn't seem particularly fair if anyone was to ask him, but is probably expected. His brief thanks they were still outside range of archers positioned on the walls of Sungreet gives way to consternation as scores of ballista on the walls start to fire, with tree-limb sized spears cutting through the templar ranks as they steadily push forward. And then the top of the western wall of Sungreet explodes in rock and smashed ballistae as the first of Ida's catapults and trebuchets fire, drawing a roar of cheers from the templars.

Dozens of Helianthus ships are moving to ram the Fleet of the Faith as Lorenzo briskly gives orders, his longships answering arrowfire with kind and siege weapons on the dromonds smashing each others decks. Lorenzo manages to deftly sail his ships to avoid the worst of the ramming, but at least two fire ships impact setting ships ablaze, and battle on the decks of the vessels is joined in mass boarding actions.

As the templars draw ever closer to the gates of the City, there's another thunderous rumble as a second wave of cavalry tries to crash along the templar lines. This time, Tescalina leads the cavalary of the templars in a counter charge to meet them, lances lowering and glittering the bright of the noon day sun moments before the two lines smash against one another. The Knight of Sunflowers keeps her horse, fighting a desperate sword duel with an Undrowned Captain before cutting him down, and the Templar cavalry breaks the ranks of the Sons before riding hard against remaining Helianthus archer lines outside the city and putting them to flight. Blanchard troops push back a counter attack by pike, and part of the Helianthus flank outside the city is crumbling.

Arrows start to rain down from the walls of Sungreet as Preston's main lines finally begin to get into range, though Ida's siege weapons are steadily demolishing the western wall and making it difficult for archers to keep their positions. The fight on the main line is intense, with Helianthus' troops giving ground and Sir Piotr Grimkin pulling them steadily into a smaller wedge that will use the gate of the city as a choke point. As the city gates open, there's glimpses past the Helianthus lines of fighting behind them. A figure with a glaive standing in the opened gate fighting Helianthus soldiers, and fighting in the streets between what looks like thralls and Helianthus bannermen. Smoke begins to rise from the city of Sungreet. Raja brings word- a thrall rebellion is underway.


Losses are heavy, with Preston taking one arrow wound in the shoulder that managed to ever so slightly penetrate his armor, and several more that fortunately do not manage to penetrate. Oili is franatically working with the Mercies and other physicians seeing to the huge number of desperately wounded, keeping a triage station as she saves life after life, and eases the comfort of all too many beyond her help. The Helianthus and Undrowned Son forces outside of their main wedge are beginning to be surrounded by Crovane and Blackram troops, fighting in desperate, brutal packets with a fortunate number heeding Sabella's calls to throw down their arms and surrender.

On the sea, Lorenzo's flagship is hit by a catapult which smashes the deck and taking water, and the mighty dromond begins to sink. Lorenzo shifts the flag and boards the closest galley, taking the fight still to the Helianthus fleet which begins to limp away towards Sungreet's seawall.

Step by step, the Templars get closer to the city, and through the gate they can now see Helianthus troops fighting other Helianthus troops. Raja brings word that Lord Trevor Helianthus, the Sword of Sungreet and the Duke's son and heir, has turned against his father which could well be because of the propaganda campaign by Niklas. The rebelling thralls are gaining ground in the city, and Preston sees some freed Eurusi thralls fighting the rear of Helianthus' wedge, screaming the words in Arvani, "FREE! FREE! FREE!" It may be the only words of Arvani they know. With a defeaning crash, the west wall of Sungreet collapses under Ida's siege weapons, and templars and Blackram troops are able to pour around to enter the city. Rysen and the Crovane have rejoined the front lines of the templars, and in a shockingly brutal swordfight in which Rysen takes an ugly sword wound in his side and a scar against his cheek, he manages to run through Sir Piotr Grimkin and some of the Undrowned Sons drop their weapons and run. The front lines of Duke Ivan Helianthus' loyalists are buckling outside the city, and cheers and screams are heard all throughout the templar lines. Hours and hours of brutal fighting, and the sun starting to set, but victory is at hand.

And then there is the sound of war drums.

Marching from down the coast, banners flying the Golden Manacles of the Dune Kingdom of Skal'daja crest the near hill as their drums beat steadily. Disciplined Eurusi spearmen march in tight formation followed by thousands of soldiers armed with scimitars, and in the far rear are men in golden armor. Those soldiers wear surcoats with the symbol of a golden whip and three rubies underneath to represent blood, and carry leashes attached to thirteen collars of soldiers in front of them. At the sight of them, there's screams from several rebelling Eurusi thralls, and the words, "The Anointed Masters!" can be heard. The remaining Helianthus loyalists holding the gates of the city rally, and it's clear to Teagan that the Eurusi mean to pin the templar forces against the city and remaining defenders, envelope and completely annihilate them. And to that, there is a clear answer as the templar and Blackram lines wheel to meet the Eurusi charge. Shouts of Gloria and Eurusi battle cries echo at the same time before the lines meet. And then they clash.

The Arvani lines begin to buckle almost immediately under the onslaught. The Helianthus troops were experienced and dangerous, but the sheer ferocity of the Eurusi infantry is unexpected. To make matters worse, they are obviously extremely skilled- the Dune Kingdoms have been fighting a constant war for over a decade, and these troops are very obviously veterans as they smash against the desperate Arvani lines. Preston, Alban, Rysen, Teagan, Katryn- they are all repositioning their troops against the greater threat as the templar lines need reinforced time and again, and the dead begin to pile as Preston, Tescelina and Rysen fight their way to the Eurusi front.

As the lines buckle, Eurusi and templars devolve into a brutal melee. Arvani and Eurusi are falling by the score, and then the Anointed Masters gradually come into arrow range. They see men with leashed collars around their necks drop down and pull out war slings, which truthfully is somewhat of a relief as slingers are not much threat to heavily armored templars. Most Abandoned in Arvum eschew slings as weapons since they are relatively ineffective against castle forged steel, but the Eurusi seem to be paying that no heed as their taskmasters bark orders. Preston has a moment to notice that Crusader is suddenly extremely hot in his hand as the first slingers start to fire.

It's not entirely clear if they are throwing stones. The projectiles move so fast that it is hard for the eye to track them, but they were probably black stones. Indifferent to the fact that Eurusi and Arvani are tied in a confused great melee, the stones hit and punch clean through heavily armored templars, through the people behind them, and perhaps a dozen people deep before they stop. Tescelina takes a hit in her left arm, brutally wounding her as she keeps fighting. Scores of Crovane and Blackram troops fall and hundreds of templars start to drop in a moment as archers frantically return fire at the Anointed Masters' slingers. The slingers seem completely indifferent to being targeted, as they keep slinging more black stones even as arrows fall among them and several begin to die, while others just keep slinging through their wounds.

One Anointed Master steps forward in his golden armor and unshoulders an extremely ornate black runed bow, shooting an arrow in a high arc above the battlefield. As the arrow arcs and starts to come downward, it splits, and hundreds of arrows rain down over the templar ranks and burst into flame as they land the ground, with smoke and flame spreading throughout the templar ranks. The Master starts to knock another arrow and pulls to fire, but then he has to swing and parry Tescelina's sword with his bow, and drops it to draw a wickedly long dagger pulses with a dark light. Even through the intense, brutal melee and the screams of the dying, the sound of the Master's chanting echoes as he duels with Tescelina. In a whirl of blades, they parry each others blows with the Master finally slipping his dagger deep into Tescelina's chest. As her blood stains the trampled sunflowers underfeet, Tescelina suddenly bursts into flame and the Eurusi screams in horror as the flames surround him, turning him and his belongings to ash as Tescelina crumbles to the ground and lays still forevermore.

Scores more templars are dying by the moment under the constant barrage of the slingers, though the stones falter as a single armored figure is among the Eurusi's rear, a crowned woman fighting with a glaive as robed Eurusi and golden armored Anointed Masters rush her with arcs of fire flying through the air. Even without the stones, the Eurusi infantry is gradually cutting through the templar lines, and Preston frantically is rallying his troops and keeping them from breaking entirely, though even at a quick glance as much of half of his forces are now out of action, and the Eurusi show no signs of breaking as they try to prevent a fighting withdrawal. Friendly Helianthus forces and rebelling thralls are keeping the forces of Duke Ivan at bay, but some Eurusi are in the city, and it is steadily looking like a slaughter.

And that was before a second Eurusi force arrives on the beach. As the second Eurusi charge with another few thousand soldiers, there doesn't appear to be much option but to go for a fighting withdrawal and try to save what forces Preston can. His troops start to shift so they can cover a retreat to the boats, and at least the new Eurusi forces seem to be moving not to cut him off, but to reinforce the other Eurusi lines- which is a small mercy and might well save his command. It looks particularly grim for the forces in the city, as some might be able to slip through the Helianthus loyalists, but the majority will be trapped, including those who organized the thrall rebellion. But perhaps after the rest of the templar forces rally with the rest of the Compact, they'll be able to stage a rescue. If Preston's able to successfully withdraw at all.

The second Eurusi force promptly attacks the first one.

Almost immediately, the tide of the fight turns, as the Eurusi begin to fight a withdrawal themselves and the newly arriving Eurusi put them to flight. The Anointed Taskmasters stop their slaves firing at the Arvani and turn towards the other Eurusi, and Eurusi within the brutal melee fight themselves free and in some cases rout. Inside the city, the Helianthus loyalists fight a withdrawal to the docks, and almost in moments the hostile Eurusi force is withdrawing to their ships while under assault by Arvani archers and the other Eurusi. Leading the friendly Eurusi is the Crown Prince of Skal'daja, Prince Damik'uhl'daja who is accompanied by Lady Monique Greenmarch, Anisha Whisper, Delia Whisper, Prince Sebastian Pravus, Ras, Lady Alessia Mazetti and several Eurusi carrying the body of Swift Grayhope. Prince Damik'uhl'daja asks in heavily accented Arvani, "How does one join the Compact?"

Lady Evonleigh Whitehawk has penned a tragic drama of star-crossed love entitled "A Wager of Hearts," to be staged in the Bard's College. To bring the tale of woe to life, she has pulled together an amazing cast and crew, showcasing the talents of Arx's finest actors, as well as painters, costumers, and musicians. Evonleigh herself will be acting as well as directing.

The synopsis: Perris is the youngest son of Marquessa Rowanworth -- no one expects much of the playboy lord. Delphine is the daughter of an ennobled former knight, Count Lafoy. The two meet at a ball, with Perris instantly falling for the sweet and beautiful Delphine. She is skeptical of his admiration, but the two begin a friendship. Delphine uncovers hidden depths of the young man -- who is in fact a skilled poet and philosopher with deep emotions hidden behind the facade of the nonchalant playboy.

Perris requests to speak with the Count, to formally court her, and Delphine at first declines, disbelieving his sincerity, but Perris makes a bet with Delphine that he will be seen with no other woman on his arm for a month, while challenging her to be escorted by several different suitors in the same time -- because he doubts he truly is worthy of her affections and wants her to be as sure of him as he is of her. This causes both some awkward, comedic moments as it also reveals the true feelings of Delphine and Perris.

When the month is up, Perris is granted permission to speak to Count and Countess Lafoy, who happily approve of the match -- but Marquessa Rowanworth does not. She rejects the betrothal and instead tells Perris to marry Princess Sylpha, a woman of great beauty but one who is spoiled and prone to temper tantrums. Delphine, though brokenhearted, swears she can never hate Perris and that he should do right by his family, and Perris reluctantly agrees to the match.

The courtship period passes with Delphine disappearing from the social scene and from Perris' life. As the wedding day draws nearer, Perris becomes more and more distraught, until on the stormy day of the wedding he can take it no longer. While his household prepares for the marriage ceremony, he sneaks out after a discussion with his sisters Maitea and Amaryllis, who tell him love is more important than rank and propriety, and to follow his heart. The runaway groom rushes through the terrible storm to the Lafoys. Disaster strikes, in the form of lightning, causing the lord's horse to buck in terror, throwing him from the saddle. It is Delphine who finds him in the woods nearby, but his wounds are too grievous and the two whisper their last goodbyes and vow to find one another in another life.

Tabitha has extensive experience with designing and painting set backgrounds, props and other dressings for Prince Niklas and Princess Sabella's plays. Now it's time to put those well-refined skills to work to bring exactly the right mood to Evonleigh's first drama. She's going to work tirelessly to get everything just right, from the elegant ballroom where the lovers meet, to the mournful wood where their love comes to die. Tabitha will also be talking up the play and promoting it whenever she can, because of course she will! It's her cousin's play, after all! She'll be painting beautifully tasteful and evocative posters to advertise A Wager of Hearts, and placing them in the venues where they'll be seen by the sort of people who will best enjoy the theatrical production at hand. (OOC: 500 econ and 20,000 silver added to the action, to be distributed in any way that'll increase chances of success.)

Sabella is more than happy to play the role of one Countess Lafoy, lending her sparkling spirit and infectious joy to the role -- a mother that only wishes the best for her daughter? She's certain she can manage to capture the essence of such a character. She is also very keen on talking up the show to any and all that will hear her, and puts forth her social might in ensuring that the evening should be a smashing success!

Prince Lorenzo Redrain is positively delighted that his protege Lady Evonleigh has taken on such a creative and dramatic project, and he will spare no effort in promoting it. He will use his social connections to chat up friends and acquaintance, nobles and commoners, to ensure that this upcoming play is the talk of the city. He also buys up a block of tickets for opening night and get them into the hands of the movers and shakers of Arx's society, proving that this event is seen by everyone as the place to be. (adding 200 social and 100 economic)

Inspired to assist her husband's protege after reading the play, Gwenna offers to act in the production. Taking the role of Lady Amaryllis, one of Perris' sisters, she will hopefully bring life to the part. Lady Amaryllis is kind, sweet, and believes in love above all, which Gwenna hopes to convey convincingly in the production!

Aerwyna, with her experience in sewing and tailoring has been invited as costumer and will be making the appropriate clothing for the actors in the play. She will be taking measurements of the cast and sewing together the outfits then having fittings and doing adjustments til everything is perfect and to Lady Evonleigh's standards. She will also assist in any other areas that her eye for design is needed and cloth is involved such as any curtains and drapery for the stage. She also donates some silver to help with materials.

Lord Eddard Clement will be taking on his first role in Evonleigh's play. As Count Lafoy, the father of Lady Delphine whom he wishes to find a good match and happiness in marriage. This shouldn't be too hard. To pretend to be Baron Norwood Clement but nicer. And less gruff. And less strong. Acting seems to come easy to him, he foresees no problems in being amazing.

Lord Dariel Bisland has vast experience of acting back home in Pridehall but in Arx he's not had so much work. Even so, he feels it's only natural he'd be getting the role of Lord Perris. Perhaps a playboy Lord isn't too far from Dariel himself, though he having to have to make sure the he is a little more sympathetic.

Dariel is committed to the production. Talking to friends, family and those who stand still long enough. Investing some of his own money as well. Much of this could be down to the fact that he really is get his name out there and become as famous in Arx as he feels he should, though what's an actor without a successful play?

Place Holder: Sapphira would be honored to assist in anyway, be it as a actor/performer or however she can support Evonleigh.

Gesa joins the cast as Princess Sylpha. She attempts to add some comedy to the tragic play by making the Princess's temper tantrums as comedic as possible.

Mikani is playing the Villian ... Marquessa of Rowanworth. While this entertains her that the part is different from herself. She enjoys that she gets to throw herself into the roll. And throw herself in with two feet she does. Mika uses her experience as a child growing up with more traditional families to know the type of woman she is playing. Eager for the adventure to play the villian she readies herself to hit the stage.

Yasmine has been cast to play the leading role of the Lady Delphine, one which she assumes with enthusiasm and grace. She brings to life every emotion invoked within the story of ill-timed lovers, channeling from experiences in her meteoric rise to fame and the many tribulations along the way. Of course, as an actress of the Blackrose Theater, she does more than her fair share of spreading the word among various spheres she frequents, building up anticipation for its premiere.

If there's one thing Mailys is good at, it's playing a seductress! She'll take the part of Lady Laguna, one of the many women trying to steal Perris' attention from Delphine.

Saro is putting her practical skills in woodworking to use by helping to produce platforms, furniture, and any other wooden props that might be needed to help set the stage for the play. It may not be the most glamorous role in the production (yeah, all right, it's probably about the /least/ glamorous role), but she's not one to shy away from practical work. Some of those pieces of prop furniture might end up with some entirely unnecessary highly decorative flourishes, though.

Lady Azolla was offered the role as Lady Murrietta who is one of the ladies that is trying to get the attention of Perris who has currently sworn off other women. This is her first role in a play and she hopes to do well., so she dedicates herself to learning the lines and rehearsing in order to prepare for the show.

Haptenna has been invited aboard as part of the musical accompaniment. Being multitalented and capable of playing a few different instruments, she will be on both the lute and the harp at alternating intervals where necessary for various scenes, or simply confine herself to one if the musical section is filled out enough. She's fine with that. Either way, the young troubador will be in attendance, putting her talntes god good work. Ideally.

The play titled "A Wager of Hearts" has become widely praised in Arx and beyond, an immensely popular performance that has left an impression due to its deft social commentary and sympathy towards neo-nobles in the Compact. Produced by Lady Evonleigh Whitehawk, the play tells the tale of Lord Perris Rowanworth, with Lord Dariel Bisland in the role. Lord Perris' tragic love with the Lady Delphine LaFoy, portrayed brilliantly by Yasmine Champagne, calls upon the common themes of love warring with noble duty, and particularly of the lack of regard given to neo-nobles as old houses consider marriage alliances, as Perris attempts to win Delphine while being pursued by rivals such as Lady Laguna (charmingly played by Mailys Corsetina), and ultimately wins a betrothal from the count and countess LaFoy (as played by Eddard and Sabella respectively). Much of the audiences enjoy the light satire of the fragility of certain marriage pacts and associated negotiations as portrayed by Gesa Whisper playing the comically spoiled Princess Sylpha, who wins a marriage pact with Lord Perris with the approval of Mikani as Marquessa of Rowanworth, negating all the efforts of Perris and showing the crushing burdens of duty placed upon nobles to do well by their family. Lady Evonleigh herself plays Perris' sister Maitea Rowanworth, who along with his other sister Amaryllis (played by Princess Gwenna), give a stirring speech on in the play detailing the struggles of nobles in sacrificing love for duty, and how they should be forgiven for pursuing their hearts, and that neo-nobles are worthy of matches. The tragic death of Perris at the end of the play, thwarting his family and trying to win Delphine at last, is a hotly debated message by much of the Compact, with traditionalists particularly in the Oathlands and Mourning Isles seeing it as a morality play showing that Perris failed to uphold his obligations to his family and was punished for it, while less conservative elements in the Lyceum see it as a criticism of the institutions that doomed the star crossed lovers. Fortunately, the play is good enough where individuals mostly argue with each other and firmly believe that the play supports their own biases. There's widespread recognition for all the cast, and even for the crew, with Aerwyna as costumer, Tabitha's props, Haptenna's music, Saro's set construction, and Lorenzo's advertising.

As a result of "A Wager of Hearts", traditionalist antipathy towards neo-nobles softens ever so slightly. This is a fragile thing, likely to not last if there's more ennoblements, but it makes life easier for current neos.

With each new tragedy there are people that never come home and often times efforts to help them focus on only the families that are suffering from the latest tragedy. Princess Sabella Grayson wants to make sure that no family is forgotten and will be pushing a huge fundraising effort to help those that have lost loved ones during the recent skirmishes surrounding the Great Road, the Lodge, the Gyre War, and even the Silent War. Families don't stop grieving when a new crisis arises and Princess Sabella wants those families to know that the Compact remembers. The funds will be used to put together packages that include food, clothing, household items, and toys where applicable. Further arrangements will also be made to help family members who are looking for it find positions as apprentices or squires or household servants so that they can further help their families

Kaldur's own assistant is someone who lost one of her brothers in the Gyre war. Her brother Aonghus was found and brought to Arx. He's invested in this personally and on a larger scale. Kaldur has got a big heart and isn't shy about sharing it. Plus, with the Eater stirring, remembering people and stories and events is more important now than it ever was.

This is Sabella's passion and damn if Nik isn't going to get in there and do what he can to help realize it! So he helps by using his connections in the Isles and the already-softened sentiment created by the war with the Gyre, the specter of a future war with one of the new foreign powers or Reveka Tyde, to fundraise for Sabella's works. Surely the greatest of us can find it in ourselves to give for the meanest among us.

The College assists, via Gianna. Bards circulate through the city, drumming up interest as best they can. The bards passing through are encouraged to spread the word as well, so who knows how far this will spread? Gianna herself? She'll perform. Surely, the legendary Nightingale will draw a crowd, singing a heartbreaking song of sorrow.

Olivia isn't as skilled at rallying people and gathering supplies, but she still wants to help. So she will be helping with the actual delivery of the supplies gathered. That way she can go to the villages and provide physicians services for free to the people in need of it.

Liara helps with the organisation and administration of the charitable effort. She does enjoy organising. This includes assisting with the direction of resources and ensuring that they are properly used, using her not inconsiderable capacity for and experience of stewardship. She largely stays out of the public eye for this one.

Tabitha's efforts are focused through her art. She'll be painting beautiful but tasteful posters to bring awareness of the fundraising efforts, and will place them in strategic locations to draw the attention of wealthy philanthropists. She'll also put up paintings for auction -- considerate works that symbolise the worthiness of compassion and helping those in need.

Reese would like to join this charity and try to help raise money and help. She lead the Grayson troops in the War of Silence and Commanded the navy in the Gyre word. She also also at the lodge battle. She would like to do what she can to help those who were harmed by such and their families. She would like to make a showing a the Knight of Ribbons and encourage as much support for this project as possible.

There's immense appreciation for this, as the many victims from the different conflicts are gratified to be remembered and to be receiving much needed aid, particularly in families that found the pensions just didn't stretch as far as they hoped. Their prestige greatly increases.

The Great Road. What a cock up! Saoirse Velenosa has been tasked by the King to find a way to fix it. She and a team of diplomats are going to work to find compromises via a signed accord between the Houses along the road bringing them together in the spirit of cooperation. For this first stage, the Great Road Negotiators are going to meet with houses along the road to hear feedback and propositions in regards to possible treaty issues. Saoirse is generally sending lords and ladies from the assorted fealties to handle their own, to listen and be seen. In addition to listening to Houses' wishes, Saoirse will also propose to the houses a toll on the roads, paid in part for the upkeep and safety of the road and in part to the houses that are along said road.

The ultimate goal of the Treaty will be to establish a broad base of support that brings the houses on the road together with tangible benefits and expanded cooperation.

As a diplomatic sort himself, Alaric is quite happy to lend some assistance to the project he has set before Saoirse of identifying the benefits merchants and Houses are getting from the Great Road and assigning Crown personnel to go out and get input to find out what's working so it can be made better or easier, as well as put together a wish list of things they'd like to see to help commerce develop, and also float some ideas by people to see if anything gets traction. A standardized system of barrels and crates for easier goods transfer and inspection? Traveling veterinarians paid for by a collective donation? A system of amnesty for bandits that give themselves up to be sworn to the Knights of Solace for training and posting elsewhere? Ultimately the goal is to find out what sort of things have enough widespread support to form the basis for an accord spanning most of the Road itself.

Gwenna will travel the affected areas in the Northlands, especially those along the contentious borders with the Oathlands. She does /not/ go as an authority figure, Voice of House Redrain, seeing as she believes quite strongly in the autonomous nature of Houses, but as a diplomat who also happens to be born of Houses Redrain and Laurent. While she can not fix what has been done, she will speak to the positive history between the fealties, of alliances forged by marriages after bloody wars. Princess Marian, now a respected War Chief of House Redrain, for example, came to be known after a marriage that started in such a way with House Valardin. Lastly, she pledges to make this trip a yearly one going forward should things settle, visiting each of the Houses and hosting small banquets with them, if they allow. In sum, she will be a firm but soft voice requesting negotiations and peace.

Donella is a pragmatist at her core. There are plenty of people talking to the folk along the road where havoc is having a heyday, so she focuses on touring the nearest neighbors of impacted holdings to make them understand what their skin in the game is. She can only be in one place for a given amount of time, but changed or empowered minds are there all the time to put the pressure on. Donella is saying that if the Road endeavor fails, then it will continue to be difficult, costly, and slow to move manpower, materiel, and intelligence across Arvum. And that equals death, deprivation, and darkness for damn-near everyone. If it succeeds, everyone benefits-- defensively, economically, and strategically. She can also point out that the High Lords of Sanctum, Bastion, and Maelstrom are going to be taking as dim view of vassals' violent incursions on the holdings of their allies, just as Darren Redrain does. So let's calm things down, shall we?

Zara has never thought the roads idea was bad, but she as many knew that with any advance there were by setbacks as the people got used to the ideas and sadly others would take advantage of the change and unrest follows. That is what Zara will be helping with. Soothing the fears, offering suggestions on personal levels and in general putting people at ease for the houses she steps in front for, and doing the same in the background//in support of the others Negotiators.

Desiree will talk to the people and listen to what they have to say. She will do what she can to put their mind at ease and see if she can help them work something out.

While Sabella still doesn't believe the Great Road was a failure or a bad idea, she is all for going out and talking to people about it to try to keep bad feelings down to a minimum. She'll listen, talk to people, put a positive spin on everything, and then either delegate to the proper vassal houses to go deal with their people or go out to talk to people herself. Focus on the positive!

Diplomacy? It's not actually Berenice's /foremost/ strength, but getting people to agree to compromise? That is something she is very, very good at. The more intricate details of treaties and the like are often beyond her: instead, she focuses on finding ways to give people what they want -- and compromise what she needs them to compromise. She'll be there to ply her whims on the heads of the various houses they visit, so very attentive to their hopes and wishes, and finding those points where she needs them to give a little. She's not above fluttering her eyelashes where she needs to. (She is, in fact, so far below.)

Sophie, the Mother Mercy of Arx arranges Mercies to accompany the diplomats on their missions in an attempt to both reduce the loss of life, and to help drum up goodwill with the Abandoned tribes along the road. The Mercies will provide healing to all who need it, regardless of fealty, and they will share knowledge of healing techniques with any abandoned healers that wish it. The Mercies throw their support behind this effort to bridge the divide between the compact and the abandoned tribes along the Great Road.

Selene seeks the most vocally opposed and stubbornly resistant to the Great Road, banking on the reputation of Whisper House as quiet negotiators between troubled parties. Any particularly troubling snarls are where she wants to be, playing the compassionate listener, patient diplomat, and only then proceeding to address the concerns. Organizations she takes a direct hand, noble houses she sends words and messengers with, offering to help mediate any concerns. She will speak to ongoing economic and social advantages, using examples of the Empyrean Trade Route, interest expressed by merchants, and similar infrastructure projects in other lordships or realms. Point out the positive, downplay the negative. Groups that need further encouragement how they might benefit, she'll offer ideas or suggest connections to proper parties like the Scholars for research or the Crafter's Guild and Silver Consortium. She presents a sympathetic, willing ear to their worries and problem-solver par excellence as need be.

Does anyone in the Compact know how tedious and difficult it is to get literally scores of different houses to agree to a uniform anything? Probably not, but everyone involved in this treaty effort now does. It is excruciating to get dozens upon dozens of proud (the diplomatically polite version of 'obnoxiously arrogant') lords to agree to nearly everything, as virtually all of them expect special treatment where of course every -other- domain should be taxed endlessly, and be forced to make massive commitments of troops to keep their roads safe, but by virtue of their own importance they should be spared any such considerations. Fortunately, this effort has ten of the finest diplomats in Arvum involved, and they are able to make progress which would have been hopeless for anyone else. That they are almost all leaders, exceptionally important in their field, and supported by the King helps. Also, that they are almost without exception charming and stunningly attractive doesn't really hurt either, since most of the leaders they are dealing with are not and very not.

In the end, Saoirse and her team manages to create a sprawling treaty of hundreds of pages dealing with a million exceptions for the Mill That No One Cares About Except Baron Stubbornface and similar circumstances, while creating some very, very basic rules for dealing with territorial disputes that come up from the Great Road, and basic guidelines for uniform tolls paid by travelers that can contribute to upkeep and increased patrols to increase safety.

More importantly, while most of the brushfire conflicts already in progress continue, the diplomatic team has headed off, by their calculation, probably several hundred wars started by total idiots. Preventing something from happening is, when you get down to it, a vastly underappreciated triumph.

Some time ago the idea of improving County Pearlspire's infrastructure was seeded. The idea began as a military effort, improving roads to improve troop movements. Which would improve trade. And like the bit of grit that eventually becomes a pearl, the idea has grown and taken shape. And grown some more. Inspired by Lord Michael Bisland, the success of the Empyrean trade route, and encouraged by Marquessa Deepwood, Lord Kaldur has begun shepherding a massive infrastructure project - an overland analog to the Empyrean Route that will set a series of trade roads through Grayson's principalities and farther. /From Stormwall to Ostria and beyond!/ says young Kaldur, with emphasis on 'and beyond.'

When the planning is done and construction begins in earnest, Lord Kaldur is a man who prefers to lead from the front when he can. In County Pearlspire he will work tirelessly alongside the men and women (and horses!) of the Seliki Engineering Corps as they plan and execute the work laid before them. He is a steadying presence with encouragement and focus at setbacks and ready with praise for work well done.

(OOC: Recommended support is 100-200 resources for Baronies and Counties, 200-500 resources for Marches and Duchies; but any and all support is welcome)

As work proceeds all over the Compact, who knows what will be discovered!!

Lady Peri Seliki has a strong relationship with the prominent traders that already flock to Pearlspire's shores and has reached out to those that she tipped off previously to some lucrative opportunities on lumber. She gathers information from them on where the best routes would benefit from roads to add to her brother's efforts and arranges for them to get the word out to others, both to fulfill the gap in transporting materials to the workers and in preparation for the new network.

Considering that some adult supervision will be required, Kalani would be happy to go along and serve as a stand-in for said-adults. Chiefly, if anyone is going to build anything, someone is bound to get hurt in the process. It's a natural outcome of people + tools = broken body parts.

Samantha is wholeheartedly invested in this notion, especially with Old Oak (presumably) being one of the stop points on the road. She'll invest resources into its creation, and encourage the hiring of the March's population for all levels of its creation. She will also look into facilitating the formation of security for the road, and aid in the diplomactic and economic efforts surrounded projecting its cost to create and projection of its maintenance.

As a purveyor of stone, particularly granite and marble, Grazia is going to have stone shipped to the Selikis for Pearlspine. Some of the stone will be used for the very roads it is to be transferred along, but the bulk of it will be sailed along the coast to the actual port city to be used to build the harbor. This is an important trading endeavor, and Grazia expects that due to the long-term nature of the project that it will offer a nice economic boost for her quarries.

Aviaron's Peak rests atop a MOUNTAIN, which means its architects and workers have experience working in... the MOUNTAINS. So Rhea will consult with her stewards to put together a crew of advisors and workers to help with Kaldur's project, lending them valuable experience. Aviaron's Peak will also provide any necessary metal for the project at a discount.

As stewards and protectors on the roads of Arvum, and as followers of Gild who favors trade, civilization and hospitality, the Knights of Solace lend their aid to the project with the promise that it will feature a few Solace waystations and shrines for pilgrimage. Thena offers the Solace soldiers stationed near the proposed route for protection and manpower. She also sends resources and silver for the project. Once complete, the route will be added to the Knights of Solace regular coverage.

Ann believes in Kaldur's efforts for a trade route and signs Stormwall up, understanding that he needs support in many ways to see success in the long run.
*She puts her economic mind to use, saving Kaldur where she can and maximizing profits.
*Pours over paperwork with him to make sure no one is pulling a fast one on him.
*Assigns Crovane's reserves to patrol the route inside Crovane lands.
*Uses her Inquisitorial contacts to make sure no one is sharing the details of the road to those outside of the Compact for their own benefit.

Michael Bisland rounds up maps and engineers who know how to READ said maps to help a vassal in need. Or in want. Since Kaldur doesn't /need/ these roads but he sure does love to talk about it. So much. Just constantly. Leave me alone, I helped!

Grady is following Samantha's lead here, helping smooth the way for increased security and infrastructure between Pearlspire and Old Oak, ideally helping both domains grow stronger and more secure. He talks to people, he negotiates, he encourages the soldiers, and he keeps a careful eye out for any rising arguments, moving to help quell those as swiftly as possible.

Gabriel Bisland is encouraged by the younger generation's drive to see the Compact reach new heights. He adds the weight of the mighty House Bisland to the project. Not only to fund the improvement (or new construction of) roads in Pridehall, but so that the project over all might avoid the danger of dipping into the red.

Giulio will assist in helping those that wish it in building a uniform code / set of agreements to make the best money they can on this.

Stonewood is no stranger to road building, having recently refurbished the road to Pridehall that helped put them on the map. What's not on the map, however, is a great way to cross the river at Stonehearth. So in coordination with this network of roads, Malesh will oversee the creation of a bridge or ferry (whichever is more practical/profitable) crossing the Gray River not far from the docks at Stonehearth.

Recognizing the opportunities for trade and also for his house, Fecundo is lending his diplomatic skills to getting the project moving, working through any of the lands where the road is planned to go. It also doesn't hurt that he'll be able to point to the quality of output from the Gemecitta stone.

Etienne has a vested interest in the pursuit of the expansion of civilization, trade, commerce, and the cause of safe journeys. All of which are accomplished by a well funded and functional transportation system. Etienne will be contributing silver generously provided by the Faith as well as speaking well of the endeavor whenever possible to those that need help convincing. Etienne would indicates the funds are for the builders, and those that support them, soldiers, cooks, and the like. Etienne would also be on hand for cutting any ribbons with hilariously large scissors.

Eddard uses all of his wiles and charm to help speed along permits and coax constructions crews to take on the needed jobs. If Duskshire ends up on the new set of roads, thats not so bad, eh?

Lord Bedivere Whitehawk will be acting on behalf of his dear newphew (Baron Silas Whitehawk) to lead forth Whitehawk soldiers to help out on the road project for Lord Kaldur Seliki. Bedivere himself will be out there as a managerial force to help out every day.
He seeks the help of huntsmen and cartographers in the area to help map the road around mountainous and hilly terrain to connect agricultural communities.
Since gravel and paving is time-consuming and expensive, wood is used in these instances to limit excessive sliding on the steeper side of a hill.
Whitehawk soldiers are deployed to help with security and digging where soil is already worn away, close to the bedrock, so muck will be less of a concern.

While the Volkov Woods is one of the newer areas of the map, and that they may not come anywhere near the proposed current trade route - Ruslan is hopeful that someday, when the trade route starts to create the terciary routes, that the Volkov Woods would be part of this future. As such, he has created a small patrol of 150 troops to be sent to provide security and protection for the crews along the route.

Lady Rey Laveer, as Voice of Laveer and a Mercy has decided that roads are more than needed to connect trade routes, but as a side not would be good for movement of healers to farther reaches of Arx. And has offered her House's support as well as her personal support to the Roads Project.

Given the Twainfort's traditional seat as a trading hub due to its control of the fork of the Mother in the Daughter and Son Rivers, it's simply good sense to see that more and more overland routes from far-flung, land-locked Houses can reach Riven's ports and speed the passage of their goods along its way. Mia will work with a number of her advisors, particularly those most familiar with the landscape and locations throughout her County, and those recently joined Prodigals from surrounding areas of the Gray Forest to find the appropriate blend of transversible but also defensible routes through the woodlands.

In her role as minister of upkeep to Inverno, Mirella will be working on behalf of the house to aid Lord Kaldur's project. Alongside advisors from house Inverno she'll be investigating the safest and most convenient routes for roads to the island city of Caina and any surrounding settlements, as well as figuring out required costs prior to these roads being built. She'll share this research with the Seliki Engineering Corps and assist them in any way that's helpful and beneficial to Inverno and Seliki. She'll also be donating 100 economic resources to the project, representing Inverno's ministry of income rising to the task to provide funds.

Though their home is an out-of-the-way island, the Truesworn are often keen to participate in the broader life of the Compact. A grand project to improve the infrastructure of the coastal trade routes evidently meets with the Truespeaker's approval. Sudara duly brings to bear all the Setarcan know-how and book-learning she can muster, in guiding her people through work to develop Esterhold's internal structure and develop its external trade.

Tenebrae, a warrior above all things, will help in this endeavor by both allocating and commanding soldiers to protect the works, as well as using soldiers as workers on the Isle of Esterhold. They will be learning from the engineers as much as possible, while also ensuring no resources go missing, and protecting lives. This protection also applies to guarding the sea lanes to ensure the transport of resources, skilled craftsmen, and the money to pay them.

The Marquessa of Nilanza is happy to supply as much as we can of the materials and labor required for the stretch of road to be built across the march, if the engineers to see it through can be provided by other means. Then we, House Malespero, can contribute both economic and social resources to the effort, and to all upkeep.

Belladonna has received an invitation to take part on Kaldur's new efforts to build a more cohesive network of roads for commerce. She will be seizing that opportunity and trying to convince other lords, traders, merchants, crafters, etc, to join in with some of their own resources, thus investing much of her Social pull into this. She wants to make Setarco, the whole island, a place of culture and wealth. She will know places to avoid and where the roads should go through.

Lord Sebastian Pravus will be visiting Setarco during January of 1010 as part of some other work. While there, he will talk with local contacts to get an understanding of the breadth and scope of work needed to build roads on the island, as well as the best ideas for placement to assist the engineering corp. Additionally, he will assist the project by spruiking the benefits of a well-built trade road far and wide with his many contacts in Arx and especially within the Pravus lands to drum up additional support and interest in the project and its potential benefits to the local economy.

Following her sister's lead, Celeste is offering her expertise in terms of patrol schedules, strategic importance to areas, most likely to be ambushed here... that kind of thing. She'll further take effort to extol the virtues of this project to important and influential figures in Arx and Setarco.

Mikani helps Kaldur understand the unique location that is Redreef. She gathers funds and encourages the infrastructure project through out her Barony. Mikani addes in economic resources to help with the building of the roads and other paths knowing that anything can be useful.

Baroness Skye Blackshore is a founder of the Empyrean Trade Route. She provides all the mappings where the ships will stop along the way, providing recommendations for fortifications so that goods can be transfered from the ships to the land. Then she will using her mapping skills and knowledge of war to figure out potential ambush points and provide that to people who are going to managing security of this route. She will also use her economic skills to assist Duchess Ann with negotiating better building rates, using her woodworking and infrastructure talents to make sure they get the necessary supplies for building without spending to much.

Dycard is going to help out with the persuading of people that this is a good idea and one that should be supported. After all, roads help farmers get their produce to market as well as letting military forces travel much faster, and that has to be to everyone's benefit come tax-time, right?

Tyde lands are connected both by more traditional roads on Tyde Isle, but more often by more watery roads. Increased trade is good by land, but with goods arriving all the time and boats being a bit more infrequent but with larger cargo capacity than a cart, it is important that there are places to store the goods and efficient places to load and offload. As part of Kaldur's efforts, and to connect this large Grayson road network to the Empyrean and the Isles, Tyde makes land and resource available for the construction of proper warehousing and expanded stone piers to allow for efficient offloading, and offer this same expertise to help build them on the Grayson shores.

Mirk had planned something similar himself, so there's no hesitation when he's offered the chance to connect Whitehold and Cascade Springs to this planned network of roads. As the Minister of Coin for the Halfshavs, he brings some of his House's resources to the table: chiefly stone for the main roads, but also access to scouts with experience finding routes through the mountains. He acts mostly as a diplomat and negotiator, working with others to see to it that those resources are used where they'd be most effective.

Magnus will participate by guiding and assisting in the direction and protection of the roads approach to the Bonespire and surrounding winter wasteland. Utilizing his tactical and martial aptitude he will make himself available to personally advise on any potential known threats or Shav'arvani bands in the area's which they pass through as well as coordinate the protection of all participants with other collaborative members of the team, to include the usage of a detachment of assigned Bone Warden's.

With the building and improving of roads into the far reaches of the Compact, some things might be discovered-- or rediscovered that are best left alone or need a Shaman's expertise to navigate. Volcica will be lending all of her skills to this effort, making sure the spirits remain content in Stahlben's lands and as far out as she can help.

House Ravenseye will happily do their part to be included in a road project to try and make their remote area a little more accessible. Cadern will be sending out missives to Ravenseye and some of their neighbors to avoid any ruffled feathers and ensure things get handled amenably for the usually isolated northerners.

As Voice of Steelhart, Col will invite the trade road to Highhill and provide some military support and strategy as needed to ensure everything is kept safe.

Believing this to be a good endeavor for his house (roads are great for horses), Count Philippe signs up for the project. Alongside his officials, they lay the foundation for dirt paths, making sure to disturb as little as possible of their natural resources by routing the road system through ground that has already been used. Philippe is adamant about raising ranger stations for the Knights of Solace on these roads.

The Rivenshari know other roads, those of the water ways that move through the lands. Which is not a bad thing, they can use that knowledge to help intergrate the two road ways together as well as the roads that will run through Riva. Eshra puts her best minds to this, with the Knights of Solace already having a barracks in Riva and the trade routes that have already been established.

Sasha is gather up 500 economic writs, 500 social writs, and 500 military writs for the roads coming through Giant's Reach. She is also offering to aid with the spreading of the good word of the trade route.

As Marquis of one of the more remote holdings, Gaston is thrilled at the prospect of expanding the Roads and making Cloudspine more accessible. Aside from lending Blackram's political support for the effort, Gaston will also dedicate silver, and military resources to help protect the engineers as they work through expanding into the wilder parts of Arvum.

Cullen will work with his brother-in-law, Lord Alessandro, to make sure that the section of the road that will link Greenhaven to the network (by running along the south bank of the river and establishing a ferry system just west of the fork, ideally with the aid of Rivenshari river captain expertise) will be well-defended during its construction. He will take personal command of a troop of light cavalry and archers. He will also inform any other soldiers, including the engineers, where the safest - and most dangerous - places in the area lie, and how best to fight in the region.

As Minister of Upkeep for Greenmarch, Alessandro is eager to collaborate on a project such as Lord Kaldur has put forth. He will work with the Seliki engineering corps, as well as all other engineers who are assisting, to devise the best route through Greenmarch lands for the roads, perhaps partly running near the river as suggested by his brother-in-law, Lord Cullen, for easier trade with those houses such as Rivenshari and others who are at the forefront of maritime trade. He will also assist with bookkeeping, allocations of funds if necessary, and various economic portions of the endeavor, should it be needed.

The Voice of House Lyonesse takes a personal hand in the great roadworks project, enthusiastic for the potential of growth it can bring to Lyonesse lands and its people. Lady Jenessa temporarily returns to Lyon's Redoubt to assist, providing insight into the geography of the area as well as the best routes for travel. Not only does she oversee the exchange of lumber for proper stones for the road surface, she also plots out the route itself with the Seliki engineers and Lord Kaldur. Furthermore, the Lyonesse offers use of what sailworthy ships they possess to expedite the transport of building materials up and down the river to the surrounding holdings of those involved. Not only is time spent and investments made, but Jenessa further encourages the locals of Lyon's Redoubt to make the experience a memorable one for the visiting engineers and Lord Kaldur himself, throwing a modest but personal banquet for the guests of House Lyonesse and all the workers who put in time and labor.

Reigna had been planning on building roads throughout Oakhaven to stimulate trade and facilitate troop movements throughout the March. Kaldur's plans dovetail perfectly into this plan, and she shifts her focus from just Oakhaven to the surrounding areas as well. She will be contributing resources from wood and stone, to engineers and laborers to help with the construction.

Olivia will draft a plan for House Ashford's particiaption, along with providing some necessary material support. Given her area of expertise, she will prioritize roads in Ashford territory to provide good access to typical regions of agricultural surplus so that these products can be moved to market more quickly without risk of spoilage.

Lilia Telmar offers maps and recommendations for routes through the Temarch, with particular diligence paid to their placement in respect to pre-existing towns and trading routes. She's trying to find that sweet spot between maximum efficiency in road construction and minimum disruption to the people of the land, who might like to use the roads but who don't want to give up their lands. She's tagged a particular river crossing for the establishment of a new bridge, and indicated that it is likely to become the site of a thriving inn catering to travelers.

In an effort to bring more interesting people to Acorn Hill, and support the travel development plan, Tessa is personally funding the construction of an inn in the town of Acorn Hill, with stables enough for larger groups of merchants, mercenaries and travellers that may be passing through. The Golden Dame, as the inn is called, also keeps a very comfortable room always open and free of charge to any musicians or entertainers that are willing to perform for their supper so to speak. The HOPE is that this will make the stays for every one more pleasent.

Kritr will put people working towards a road in the land he controls to link it with the rest of the road system and accept whatever help of engineers is offered.

House Grayson will be taking advantage of the economy of scale of the overall effort to acquire the supplies to improve the existing roads surrounding Bastion and Arx at favorable rates, with an eye to planning linkages for future expansion to the ducal territories of the Crownlands.

Saikland Greens is a small area but a link and a junction along the path between areas to the north and Iasu to the west and Ostria to the south should the route extend that far. The route, if it succeeds, is an opportunity for networking with other houses and fealities, for enhanced trade opportunities. The mappers, guards and engineers provided by Lord Kaldur to begin the initial planning and feasibility of the route are welcomed and she accompanies them during one of her trips to Saikland to make sure they find places that do not disturb the farming and vineyard, existing businesses, have resting points with water, camping areas, spots near villages and military posts for protection and provisions. They plan out areas to avoid such as difficult stream fords, the small bog to the south that moving inland a bit can circle. Lucita adds some of her military forces to the group as they look over the areas to the south and north and around the perimeter of Saikland, careful not to intrude into Fidante Holdings but to see the locations and condition of any existing routes and trails, help secure the areas within and adjacent to Saikland and the number and location of any abandoned groups along the way. Her charm and propaganda skills can sooth the way and help persuade some to join the compact rather than resist and prey upon the merchants using such a trade route. Once areas are secured, she will assess to see if improvements to her docks becomes necessary.

Sabella is well aware of the issues that might come up with this road and so she is ready to be on hand to talk it up to anyone and everyone that wants to listen. And even those that don't want to listen, painting a picture for people of the Compact of safe, faster travel and trade, and trying to pitch it to the Shavs that instead of having Compact people traipsing their way everywhere through their lands this will keep them all in one place and hey, they can set up stalls to sell them products along the way and everybody wins! Yay roads!

Tikva thinks this is a terrible idea. She has been repeatedly insistent that it is a terrible idea whenever it has come up. However, a number of her vassals are insisting on involving themselves in it anyway, and despite her best efforts to persuade him and others otherwise, the help of House Grayson has been sought. It is not in her to refuse what aid she can offer in order to defray some of the hazards that she perceives in creating a massive overland trade route through lands that are not held by the Compact. She does what she can to ensure that any workers are actively protected by soldiery, that there are relay stations set up along the route that she believes to be an ultimately doomed project so that messages and emergency cries for help when the raiding parties come can help protect them. Tikva does not anticipate that her efforts will be able to prevent anything from ending in disaster, loss of life and potential deep economic distress for those houses embarking on an ill-advised venture, but at least if she does something to try to stave off some of the worst, maybe she can mitigate the damage to people who insist on failing to follow her good advice.

Niklas will mostly make jokes about how they should extend the road to Stormward. Like, hey guys, why can't we do a road to Stormward? This is a massive undertaking, but you know what would really make you guys legends? Uh. A road to Stormward. Really, he'll keep doing it until people are annoyed with him. But only the people who are actually working on the project. For everyone else the celebrity prince will turn on the megawatt smile and gladhand like the white hot grease fire of charm and charisma he happens to be. He's no good with a sword, he doesn't run his own domain and he doesn't have an army to offer, but what he does have are contacts who can help to make sure the money gets to where it needs to be and parts more easily from those who may be reluctant to turn it over. Call it monetary logistics. You don't need to know what you're moving, you just need to move it.

As Minsiter of Infrastructure for the Crown, Jaenelle understands the captial city is certainly a hub of activity. Arx will continue to assist where needed, making sure the roads leading to and from Arx are kept safe to the traders as well as making sure the steets themselves are kept free from holes, cracks, or anything that might make travel harder. Jaenelle's focus will be the roads directly around Arx.

Jennyva has been given permission from Duke Malcolm to sign Graypeak up for this project and contribute writs, time, whatever Kaldur may need. Her expertise is in negotiations and marketing and she ensures that the merchants know to use these new roads to their advantages.

As a capable steward and Voice for Blackram, Teagan has stepped up to oversee her family's participation in this expansive project. As remote as the Cloudspine is, such a road will be greatly beneficial. She will gladly see to aiding in what ways she can beyond providing what Blackram will for the connection of their holdings to the road: primarily with her economic skills.

Sir Andry Bayweather seems more then interested in the idea of helping connect the compact into a more unified whole and is helping arrange patrols with the Knights of Solace as well putting in work to arrange funding for any sections which otherwise seem to be neglected

Seymour believes an effort like this can only further enhance the trade network between fealties, to the benefits of trade at all levels. Seymour is ensuring that there are ample resources to ensure the holdings in Stormwall and Ashford he is responsible for can be a part of this, and to establish new trade posts for Oak Mercantile where the need for additional trade along the new route may exist.

The Great Road is easily one of the most ambitious projects launched in recent years in the Compact, though the scope is so vast and the current state of travel in the Compact is so dangerous that it verges on quixotic. Still, the bold ambition is embraced by scores of notables in the Compact, and ambitious or no, they get to work with the massive project.

There are numerous challenges. First and foremost, the traditional respect for the autonomy of every domain holder. The Compact has always had paths, or even rough mud roads between major thoroughfares, and the Knights of Solace have long patrolled many of the most popular, but the proposed brand new road attracts notice of every domain holder that they would pass through, and this is hundreds of them. The majority welcome the increase in trade... provided a) it doesn't stir up an Abandoned response and b) that they aren't responsible for patrolling it with their own funds. That is relatively little help, and they are happy to profit from it, if it is at no cost to them. A smaller number enthusiastically welcome it, and are EAGER for an Abandoned response, and are actively looking forward to doing battle with their hated enemies. Particularly in the Oathlands, there's talk about 'cleansing their lands for good and all', which goes well outside the bounds of a friendly trade agreement, and is more than a little worrisome. Some of the talk goes well past a little worrisome, in fact. And a very few outright refuse to have any new road built on their land, despite all reasoning, pleading, threats, forcing the road to be built entirely around some random baronies and counties that simply do not wish to risk any sort of conflict with Abandoned or increase the flow of riff-raff through their borders.

But with initial agreements signed up, then comes construction. This is thousands upon thousands upon thousands of miles of road to build a road that unites the different domains on somethnig more than dirt, often overgrown, hunting paths. The sheer engineering this takes in laying down the stones and creating the waystations will stand as one of the most remarkable marvels done in the Compact in centuries. Much of the land goes through Abandoned controlled territory, even if it is ostensibly owned by the Compact, but the amount of forces brought make most of the Abandoned steer clear aside from the odd skirmish here and there as the road is being built with overwhelming force. But the key words are 'as the road is being built'.

The good news is that trade spikes up immediately, and many of the traders in the Compact are absolutely thrilled to have better overland paths in order to move their goods when rivers are inaccessible or impractical. It's a boon many of the domains, and the economic consequences should be strong, in the long term. The bad news is that there simply are not anywhere near enough Knights of Solace in the Compact to patrol thousands of miles of road. Certainly they do what they can, but the raids start immediately, and in great force, and the losses from the Knights of Solace start to mount, even as caravans start to hire sellswords and travel in greater numbers for protection. Which in turn, has prompted stronger raids. Much stronger.

The Great Road is an economic success, overall, despite the raids. And fame comes with such a large, daring project. But the social and political consequences are another matter all together, and those will be forthcoming.

Sorrel has written seven songs that she wishes to spread far and wide to educate the public about the Metallics and remind them of their heroes from long ago. To this end, she's employing an army of bards to get the music out about Iron, Steel, Gold, Brass, Copper, Cobalt, and Silver. She's also trying to provide some historical context for her songs to those that are interested. Some songs are catchy, some are a little sad, some are a bit romantic, but they're all slightly different and designed to be memorable.

Please note that the text of the songs are contained in @theories 369-275, with a bonus track in 376 that will not be spread far and wide (even if Tyrval found it hilarious). There will be a relative slow roll-out of songs, to give people time to start singing them and learning about them, and the events for them are going to increase in magnitude as they go. The coordinating calendar listings are 2455 (Iron and Steel), 2579 (Brass and Gold), 2523 (Cobalt), 2524 (Copper), and 2525 (Silver). Songs will be hosted either in the Hall of Heroes or the Bard's College or another appropriate place for a musical party. Silver's song shall be hosted in the palace, per the king, as the grand finale.

Galen's going to be bankrolling the main tracks of this little would-be Metallic Opera with a substantial amount of resources.

Lisebet is going to help organize parties and she will use her social acumen and singing skill (which may not be bard quality, but it's not bad!) to help spread the songs. Hearing them over and over will definitely work in favour of this initiative.

Tikva will absolutely help Sorrel with this, and she'll do so by adding her songs to her performance repertoire and using them to entertain and educate at every available opportunity! Why not? Sorrel's lyrics are all better than hers anyway!

What's that about an army of bards? Gianna has one of those! Or at least the closest thing to. The College bards will be taught the songs, and Gianna will sing them herself as well, using her reputation, prestige, and social resources to help. If any College types are on their way through Arx going elsewhere, they'll be encouraged to spread those songs. Even other non-member bardic types will be encouraged. This is one of the reasons the College was founded, after all.

Y'know what would be a real boost to a show like this? Having one of the most prestigious people in the ding dang city jumping on board to tell people how very excited he is about it! Oh, wait a second! Niklas is one of the most prestigious people in the city! And he's willing to use that. I mean, when you're It then everyone wants to do the stuff you want to do, right? Might as well put that to good use.

Clover is not a singer, no. What she is, however? Is a very smart propagandist. And so that is what she is going to do. She is going to spread these songs far and wide. She is going to get everyone talking about them. She is going to mention to them to everyone she knows. She is going to get her people talking about them. And she's going to start creating little pamphlets with the verses of the songs, and spread those about the city as well!

Sparte is no singer, but he can tell a half decent story. Converting songs to taletelling, he'll try to inspire emotion not with the power of music but that of the listener's own imagination.

Sir Corban is not a bard. But he does sing. How is that? Well, on their morning "jog" around the Ward of the Crown, the King's Own must carry a cadence. And as First Captain, Corban often gets to call the tune. He will in particular promote the song of Silver, the founder of the King's Own. And as the King's Own's drills are often a matter of public spectacle, the songs will spread in that way.

Have you heard about Princess Sorrel and the Metallics opera she wrote? You haven't? Well, Sabella will tell everyone she meets ALL about it, enthusing at what amazing prose Princess Sorrel has come up with and also the music! She composed it all herself! And it tells such an important story. Oh, you have heard about it? Well, let's enthuse about it to everyone around us! She will be talking this up to EVERYONE, pointing out how important it is that these things be taught in many forms, especially ones with catchy tunes attached!

Sanya will use her charm and musical ability to help educate the public on music about metallics. She's hoping she can show her musical range through this job.

Eddard is a bard and is quite capable of putting voice to song. Comfortable clothes and no silks adorn him when he ventures down into the lower buroughs. People /probably/ know him, but nobody should raise their nose at him singing on street corners to anyone who will listen.

Giulio will help with those seeking to learn more of the songs, working to teach of their meanings and provide insights and details regarding those spoken of as necessary. Moreover, he will work to make certain that something akin to 'hymnals' on the subject are available for such.

Orelia is a much better singer than she is teacher or propaganda artist, so she'll take the songs out and go sing them for the public. Most of that will probably be in taverns, bars and pubs as well as other possibly less than savory places, but it may help the songs reach a new audience. She'll sing other places as well of course, more public places.

Sapphira is a bard, and loves to sing songs everywhere she goes. She will sing them to her family, to random strangers, or to the birds. The tunes will be shared and with her angelic voice as she explores the city.

Throughout the history of humanity, many have sacrificed everything for the Compact. Those heroes who stood alone against unbeatable odds. Those who stood in that moment when darkness would consume the world. Those who refused to give in, whose actions were more than could be expected of a mere mortal - who stood and fell as a guardian not just of a city or a fealty, but of ideals great enough to encompass all - those are enshrined in the Hall of Heroes. Many who travel to Arx only once in their lives spend at least a day touring the Hall, reading the stories. Looking at history.

And over time, these stories became allegories. Became morals. Became legends used to guide the next generation, and the generation after, and the generation after that. That is what enshrinement in the Hall of Heroes meant. But memories fade over time, and these legends were faded too - the statues worn in places with touches over the stone, the words carved into the pedestals not always legible. The thoughts more of the morals therein, the examples - and less on the people who sacrificed their lives in these ways.

But Princess Sorrel Thrax has changed that. With a series of concerts, researched well in Vellichor's Archives. With the blessing of the King, with support from Whispers and Bards, from people across the Compact, she has written songs about the Metallic Order. Of Iron and Steel, Gold and Brass, of Cobalt and Copper and Silver she sings. They're catchy songs all - some sad, some joyous, some heartrending. She sings them - and they spread so swiftly through the Compact.

Princess Tikva, Gianna Whisper - the Nightingale of the Bard's College herself - Lord Eddard, Lady Sanya, Lady Orelia, Lady Sapphira - all of them aid, either as fellow singers in her concert, or by singing the songs themselves, or both. Officer Sparte is no singer, but he tells the stories too, reciting them to inspire as he can. Sir Corban is no singer either, but he teaches the songs to the Hundred as a cadence - and now on the morning "jogs" of the Silver Swords, they're drilling while using the cadence of the Metallic Cycle - especially the song of Silver. They teach the songs, the stories to others. They encourage the songs to spread. And spread they do.

'Have you heard the Metallic Cycle yet?' It's a common question among the socialites too. Count Giulio, Princess Sabella, Prince Niklas, Lady Lisebet, Duchess Clover, and many other famed and famous people are encouraging everyone to learn, to hear, to sing. It's on everyone's lips - and Princess Sorrel is becoming the Singer of Heroes, even as everyone reminds themselves of the promise: "As Arx endures, we will remember."

The Good Duke of Gemecitta, a musical comedy by Prince Niklas Grayson

It's time for another Niklas Grayson SPECTACULAR!

With the help of Nightingale Gianna Whisper, Niklas has put together an entirely new form of theatrical entertainment. They've taken one of his older plays, his first real hit, a comedy called The Good Duke and have rewritten it so every scene is a song, every line is a lyric and the entire play is an extravaganza of dancing, singing, acting and (in some cases) fighting. With extensive choreography, music from a number of popular genres and an all star cast, this reimagining, called The Good Duke of Gemecitta, is set to be a genre defining event.

Almost as important as the play itself is the fact that it will be the first theatrical performance held at the Bard's College, meant to demonstrate the worthiness of the College as a venue for all sorts of entertainment. That the show (which Niklas has termed a 'musical', so as to keep it separate from the somewhat artsier 'opera') contains such a mix of performances will allow the auditorium at the Bard's College to show its versatility.

Niklas also pulled together a cast made up of some of the city's most well known singers, dancers and actors. Backstage are legendary and famous artists putting together sets and wardrobes. As well as a veritable army of PR people out there hyping the whole thing. As Niklas has said in his humble and low key manner, this will either be the greatest spectacle in the history of the Compact, or the biggest disaster since the city burnt down. Either way, worth the cost of a ticket, right?

And finally, this is meant to be a big charity event. Once the commoner participants are paid all other funds will go toward Princess-Consort Alarissa Thrax's Thursday's Child project. But wait, what about paying the venue?! Well, it turns out that when you're Assistant Nightingale of the Bard's College you can cut yourself a 100% discount. So every last silver that doesn't go to pay (commoner) cast and (commoner) crew will go toward helping to pay off the debt of thrall children. Given that his brother freed hundreds of thralls, but did so in the dumbest way possible, this is something about which Niklas is actually quite passionate.

There will be no event and as such no specific plot writeup. In a highly general sense the musical is about a conflict between (the wholly made up) Duke Enzo Rubino and Duke Giacomo Zaffria which gets farcically out of control when they schedule weddings for their heirs to occur on the same day. Lady Giulia Igniseri (Sorrel) is betrothed to Lord Stefano Rubino (Alejandro) and Lady Carina Zaffria (Yasmine) is engaged to wicked Prince Marco (no house name, Lumen) and wants out as she and Lady Alessandra Rubino, Stefano's older sister (Bliss) are in love. And of course Lady Eleonora Zaffria (Evonleigh) is in love with Lord Stefano. Marco's sister, Princess Valentina, (Sabella) isn't in love with anyone except herself, but she acts as the narrator and routinely breaks the fourth wall to address the audience directly, generally to make humorously unkind comments about the people on stage. There's humorous lyrical dialogue, some of that broad physical comedy from the second act of The Playwrights, three dramatic sword fights (including a three way fight between done to a jaunty saltarella) and a couple of love stories. There's drama, but since this is Nik, there's a happy ending for most characters and only the jerk prince (whose house is never named) ends up getting killed due to his own shittiness as a person. (Note: though his marriage contract allows him to keep publishing as Niklas Kennex, he's decided his old family is full of nerds, so he's going to be Prince Niklas Grayson for purposes of this show.) And while the show gets a lot of comedic mileage out of the unique setup of Gemecitta's duel dukes, the show is respectful toward the city itself, including the intro song sung by Princess Valentina that talks about how great, if weird, Gemecitta is.

Gianna helped write the songs and is providing the stage - the Bard College's Performance Hall - as well as some of the talent, some funding from the College's account, and using the bards to spread word of mouth and up the hype. The problem with all this involvement is that she has a personal stake in how good the singing is, and she is highly critical and determined to make sure the songs are flawless, even if that means people have to learn to sing better. She can show them what they need to do, and she will, but she will not be pleasant to work with. She probably has to be removed from the process at some point. Good thing Niklas has a really high Diplomacy skill! Seriously, there are good reasons she has instructors that aren't her at the College.

Sabella is simply thrilled to take the stage for the very first time acting in her husband's musical as Princess Valentina, wicked Prince Marco's sister and narrator to the story that often breaks the fourth wall to interact with the audience and make fun of the other players. Not only will she eat nothing but lettuce in the months leading up to the production to make sure she looks her best for the role, she will throw herself into learning the lines and the songs and practicing her improv so that this is the very most amazing show that ever existed! BEST PLAY EVER!

Ah, the theater! Princess Elgana is enthused there is to be another play put on but the fact that it is a production by Prince Niklas is just the icing on the cake. How could she ever dream of saying 'no' to a chance to promote his latest work? There is an all-star cast! Music! Drama! Laughter! It has everything and she's going to bend the ear of anyone who stands still long enough around her to get the word out about this production and how amazing it is going to be and how anyone who is ANYONE in this city ought to be there on opening night.

Berenice has agreed to help promote Niklas's newest production, but she's taking a very particular spin on it: she's talking up her interest, certainly, dropping it in conversation about how excited she is for opening night, but more than that, she's going to be flexing her wiles to get all sorts of people competing for the honor of escorting her to opening night. Will it involve duels? It might, you never know. Will Berenice _encourage_ people to duel over getting to take her to the theater? One hundred percent absolutely. She's going to make an absolutely delightful game of the whole thing. Who will actually take her to opening night? THAT'S NOT IMPORTANT. Hopefully there will be tears and fights and DRAMA before the curtain even opens.

Once again, and to her great excitement, Tabitha will be lending her efforts to any tasks that require the skills of an artist: painting sets, creating props, applying stage make-up and so forth. She'll happily work with the team of artists as a whole, as well as on her own when appropriate. She's an organised busy bee who likes to get get along with others to help a project reach its full potential, so she'll be at her smiling and enthusiastic best among like-minded people of a creative bent.

Sorrel being the Bladesong is a triple threat: an incredible soprano, an excellent dancer, and a swordswoman of some note. She's set to play Lady Guilia Igniseri, the Rubino-Zaffria vassal, in a stylish, charming way. She's quite involved in training the actors and actresses for the show, and she and Bliss are working out choreography for when Lady Alessandra Rubino and Lady Guilia bring swords into their squabble over who should get the world's most useless and undeserving prince, before making up and singing a brilliant duet about how neither of them need that particular man. Sorrel is mainly concerned with helping to showcase the talents of commoners whose livelihood she would like to boost with this all-star cast and in training those with less experience to have more confidence.

Yasmine will be bringing her formidable skills as an actress, singer, and dancer to the role of Carina Zaffria, the apple of her father's eye, yet not without considerable cunning of her own. In the part, the Ravashari embodies the dual characteristics of the 'stereotypical Lycene' by being both sweet and relatable to the audience while also conducting machinations to attempt to assert her own will. On the stage, Yasmine beguiles, whether with her ability to fully embody whatever role she plays, her rich contralto voice, or her expert dancing.

Lumen will be embodying the wicked Prince Marco, intermingling her on-brand impishness with the debonair stylings of a highness entirely lacking in moral high ground. This is not Lumen's stage debut. She portrayed a man in Lord Niklas Kennex's The Playwrights.

Delilah might be a pretty ornament to the stage, but her real threat originates in the province of the pen. Prince Niklas has scored the masterpiece for the stage, and she will be lending the ghostly weight of ink and inspiring words to seed excitement and interest far and very, very wide indeed. Given the Lycene flavour of things, she is gently applying a particular impression to build fascination or interest. That means scattering tidbits to the right people. Influencing the right sorts to carry on the word, to build up a buzz (even if they weren't all that aware before, they sure will be now...). She sends breathless excerpts into the Hundred Cities, stitching and building a train of anticipation about how good things are. Sentiments peppered with the taste of mysteries and drama on the stage, the historical wonders, the *intrigues*. Did we mention intrigues? Possibly scandal? The things that sell tickets and cement the memory are a grand tradition of developing stories, and she will spin one about the tireless playwright, the dashing and debonair actors, the brilliance waiting to be seen like a cut diamond until it's basically Hamilton 2.0 of Arx.

Alejandro takes his talents to the stage for a second time in this new production, playing the role of Lord Stefano Rubino. While his life's focus has typically been in music, he possesses enough natural charm and performing ability to once again handle an acting role. Putting his all into his performance, he focuses his time and practice mostly on the swordfighting aspects he may be called upon to perform. It's probably more a dance than a fight, so he feels comfortable enough. Alejandro works hard, devotes himself to the role, and attempts to put on a good performance.

Initially getting involved in this only for a lark, more or less, Tikva's largely present as a very dramatically loud _voice_ -- there are many actors and musicians in the city who she has no interest in intervening in the livelihoods of, but what weight she can lend to Niklas by putting her showmanship to use here, she does, cheerfully and with great embrace of absurdity.

Lady Evonleigh Whitehawk will be performing in Prince Niklas' play as one of the actresses, of course! She's been trained to do it all -- singing, dancing, comedy, tragedy... Though let's be honest: it's a good thing it's a musical comedy. While Evon's singing voice is sweet and on key, she has not the depth or richness of tone nor the range of a proper vocalist. Any songs she performs in are "sold" by virtue of her acting ability and her charm. The acting, she has the chops for, whether a comedic or dramatic scene, and she will do her best to win over the audience with every line, smile, or sob.

As a lover of the arts, and a tremendous fan of Gianna Whisper and her patron Prince Niklas, Countess Carita is very proud to support Prince Niklas' talents as a playwright and the Bard's College's very first theatrical performance by donating from her own personal funds. That the cast will be a group of people she has come to know well for their musical talents has made Carita dig deep in to her pockets to support them, adding 5000 silver to help ensure the production's success.

Aurora was the costumer the first time this performance was put on, and will reprise her role this time. The costumes don't change too much, just because its a musical this time doesn't mean there is a dramatic shift, though tailoring is done to ensure that the costumes fit their new wearers. More have had to be added too, to include the chorus and other stand ins on the stage.

Playing the role of Lady Alessandra Rubino, Bliss emerges onto the stage in her element - or at least, hopefully so. This role was practically written for her, and whether it's the swordfights, the speaking parts, or the saltarella, the Champion Whisper is more than able to keep up. Indeed, she's going to bring a high level of exuberance to the role, and while the swordfight will of course display skill with the weapon - it's not really about the speed of movement, is it? No, it's about how flashy and entertaining she can make it. Tricks that would never see the sands are going to come out in the show - movements of the blade meant to awe and impress. Hopefully no one gets too hurt, and if they do? Hey, that can be part of the show as well. Maybe even just having her name on the billing will bring in a certain type of fan, as well, that will increase the name recognition of the show. We can only hope.

Rook is, as ever, the hypeman. Patron of the arts, magnate, and philantropist. It's his duty to encourage people towards the burgeoning shows within Arx, and for those that aren't politely within his company simply to get something, they normally even listen to his suggestions. Utilising his extensive contacts within and outwith the Peerage, such as the merchant rungs, Rook targets high profile individuals for putting bums on seats for this event. For those that know his lovely partner, of course, Yasmine will be involved! For the royalists, oh by the Pantheon, House Grayson's own has authored it! It simply cannot be missed.

Caspian is the stunt trainer. He is showing the actors how to perform various stunts and choreographed fights and makes sure everything is nice and polished for when the curtains rise and the show begins.

Liara, with all her customary cheerfulness and passion, talks up the production no end, particularly among the more junior nobles of the Crownlands and of Arx with whom she so often associates. They simply must see it! Or so she says. She even sends a few letters back home to try and wrangle up visitors from Bastion, assuring them that it will be an unmissable spectacle.

There is no acting, no singing, no performances from Alarissa with regards to the latest production of Prince Niklas Grayson. Not in the least. Anyone who thinks they might see her get on a stage and act is going to be disappointed. But what she does do is promote the hell out of the production. She has a good reason to given the deal Niklas struck with her in exchange for applying her social weight. And so when she is out and about, at parties, fluttering a fan, sipping tea, eating with friends and perusing stores for the latest and greatest of trends, she's encouraging people to go see this latest production. Likely to be the talk of the town, filled with notable of society both noble and less than noble, prancing about the stage and giving their all. Shouldn't they go and support their fellow blooded? She thinks so, she's even going to be front row - well, up in a box and away from the rabble of course - and watching. And it's a way to help say you were -there- when this happened, and to indirectly support Thursday's Child in the process. Charity -and- entertainment all in one? Besides, it's bound to be entertaining in some fashion yes? Yes? Probably.

Prince Niklas Grayson is at it again. Or Lord Niklas Kennex? Something about the marriage contract and he's writing under his original name but then he's also Princess Sabella's husband and everyone knows Princess Sabella so now it's suddenly confusing. So they just start calling him The Playwright, and it sticks - and now no one has to remember surnames and contracts not their own.

In any case he's written a new play, calling this one not an opera but a musical. But the names have the starry-eyed among the theater in awe. Princess Sabella acts in her first title role as Princess Valentina, her turn both hilarious and touching. Her humor makes people gravitate toward her, and she is widely hailed as a resounding success in her inaugural role.

Princess Sorrel Thrax, Bladesong and Singer of Heroes, takes a break from astounding the Compact with her own work to perfom someone else's - and she too is a hit. In fact more people than usual come just to see her perform - can you really blame them? Of course not.

Yasmine Champagne, popular model, fashionista, and not-quite-as-scandalous-as-she-used-to-be Prodigal acts, sings, and dances her way across the stage. She reminds everyone why she is so often the talk of the town with another stellar performance.

Bliss Whisper plays a part too, and where her exceptional enthusiasm is, can the Nox'alfar be far away? The entire second floor is bought out opening night by a Nox'alfar delegation, who come en masse to see Bliss perform. They're only a little disruptive of course - their cries of BOO! every time Bliss leaves the stage, and the standing ovation that grinds everything to a halt when she enters gradually stop - about fifteen minutes before the end of the play.

Lumen, Radiant of the Whisper House herself, plays the lead in a performance by turns dark and witty. Sometimes both in the same turn. She outdoes herself and shows why she is so highly sought after in the Whisper house.

Princess Tikva, Alejandro Rossetti, and Lady Evonleigh join this all-star cast. Maybe some are taking it more seriously than others but this musical has it all - ranging from the dramatic to the comedic, there's a part to play for everyone and everyone has their part to play.

And where there is music, is the Nightingale very far behind? No she is not - Gianna Whisper wrote the music herself for this play. Sets are by the incomparable Lady Tabitha and they veritably take one's breath away. Aurora, the legendary seamstress, provides unbelievably beautiful costumes. Caspian trains the actors in their stunts, the Grandmaster of the Champions Guild helping make sure the fight scenes are entertaining indeed. It's like he's done this before.

Princess Elgana, Princess Berenice, Lady Delilah, Countess Carita, Princess Liara, Princess-Consort Alarissa, and the Redoubtable Rook all publicize the event. They're all going to opening night, and to random nights thereafter - and that's enough to ensure that this new play by The Playwright (who might be a Kennex or might be a Grayson or might be both but it doesn't matter) is a roaring success.

For the past half year, the Bard's College has been under construction. Curiously, it was essentially the perfect building when Gianna first found it; the work has mostly been restoration and the construction of a stage suitable for putting on plays. Donations from various supporters has fueled rapid progress, and now the College is ready to open, fully functional. There will be an event. Gianna will perform at this event.

As the Voice of the Bard's College, Nik will be pulling all the strings he has to make certain that the grand opening of the Bard's College is seen as a momentous and defining cultural occasion in the history of Arx. The Black Rose what? The Empyrewho? It's all about the Bard's College. Your premiere source in the entire Compact for becoming the best performer, musician or singer possible and, for the party host, your source for the finest entertainers in the whole damn world. You heard me, Cardia! Your barbershop dragon quartets got NOTHIN' on the Bard's College! So he'll gladhand his fellow nobles and convince them that the grand opening of the Bard's College is easily the most incredible thing that's ever happened to them, even if they have beautiful children or fought in ugly wars, the Bard's College still comes in at #1! This could be THE moment of this era. Why would they not want to be part of it? And if they're going to be part of it, why wouldn't they want to donate so they can /really/ feel like they participated in a generational shift for Arvum? What's a few (thousand) silver if it means you can be a part of history? Legends come and go, people, but Nightingale Gianna is an ICON and ICONS ARE FOREVER. Be a part of her story! It'll only cost you your money.

Sabella will be going all out talking up the Bard's College opening to anyone that will listen! It's the first time something like this has opened in Arx and don't you want to be part of history?! Especially nobility--there's always a need for skilled musicians at parties and wouldn't you like the Whispers you hire to be able to mingle? Well, now they can because you'll have such wonderful, trained musicians to choose from thanks to the Bard's College! Why not show up for the opening and maybe make a donation!

Porter Kennex spends some time dragooning the more urbane ship captains, and the ones who were just inclined toward music in general, about the opening of the Bard's College. They should come. Bring your wives, they'll love you for it. Most especially, he provides a donation and starts a stipend to the Bard's College.

Aahana is using her charm and ways of conversation to mention EVERYONE who is ANYONE should attend the grand opening of the Bard's College. She provides social and economic writs in aide.

Who loves the arts? Elgana loves the arts! And nothing makes her heart soar more than the idea of assisting with the grand opening of the Bard's College. She knows how much love, blood, sweat, and tears (and maybe booze) that Gianna has poured into this, so Elgana will do her part, play her role, and ensure that it is the talk of the city, the Compact, for years to come for all the right reasons. Anyone who will give the Redrain princess a moment of their time will leave her presence knowing it is the place to throw their silver, their time, and the place to be seen if they want to be at the forefront of the social scene. Who doesn't love a good bard? And since she knows how much Prince Niklas and Princess Sabella love the arts she'll work with them as well to assist in spreading the love and the word to get those donations rolling in.

Given that Lucita is part of the bardic college, and Quenia is Lucita's protege, she wishes to see this organization thrive. She puts some of her social might behind it, as well as some of her economic might, and talks to all of her friends and allies about the organization, and how they teach others how to be the best performers they can be.

Wylla loves art! Of course she does. She wants others to love it too. She'll be providing a blessing at the opening of the Bard's College, and will be using her status as the Archlector of Jayus to throw some theological weight behind the college as well.

Eddard Clement takes to announcing himself as a member of the Bard's College everytime he performs at a low-key corner of a tavern or pub. Then reminding patrons of the soon upon them Grand Opening of the Bard's College! His time is well spent practicing songs of this sort or the other to ensure he is ready to *perform at the grand opening*.

Perronne does not necessarily LOVE art, but she likes art! And she likes the idea of the Bard's College, so she will go to her fellow merchants and speak with them about the economics of an organized group of bardic entertainers, who could potentially aid in the promotion of various goods and services, if well-payed and well-treated. She also points out the value of hiring bards on long caravans, and that bards trained and patroned by the College have a much lower possibility of being thieves or brigands in disguise. She donates significant of her own funds towards the opening and initial support of the college, and encourages her peers to do likewise.

The opening of the Bard College is a grand affair, hosted by - and hosting - many notables across the breadth of the city. The Nightingale herself performs - this is not a surprise, since the establishment of this has been her focus for years now. Prince Niklas handles publicity, organizing an army of people to talk about every facet of the upcoming event - Princess Sabella, Lord Porter, Lady Aahana, Princess Elgana, Marquessa Quenia, Archlector Wylla, Lord Eddard, and an adventurer named Perrone move through the city doing their best to make sure everyone knows what's coming.

And people show up from all across Arx, some even coming to the city for a visit with plans to see the College. The bardic tradition is important, and rumor has it that this old building, newly-refurbished, is quite beautiful indeed. And on the night of the grand opening, everything is stunningly perfect and polished within an inch of its life. The music is glorious, the company sublime, the acoustics absolutely amazing. And the mural? The mural on the floor is gorgeous, and no one can seem to agree on what they liked best about it.

In fact, upon closer examination the mural seems to shift depending on who's looking at it and when. Cleaned and restored, the night of the party people mention their favorite parts of the mural - a hooded figure with a lute, a woman with laughing green eyes and a sly smile opening her mouth to sing, a choir of figures singing in the woods, and sometimes it looks like the trunks of the trees have faces. It's a fascinating piece of art, and new details are seemingly noticed every day.

Sorrel gathers friends and family to her, around a warm brazier. "The time has come," she says, "To cleanse the primum and to sing the world as it truly is. This is my song. This is my ritual. Yours may be different, in turn, for it must truly come from you. I pray that each of you supports me wholeheartedly in this and that you take this as a sample to perform your own ritual."

"Let me sing you a song of love in thirteen verses, each one carefully written with time and creativity. Let me sing Love into the Dream with joy and sacrifice:"

Each bit of the song is pinned to a scrap of fabric that is meant to represent the person or thing the verse of the song is about. The first one is a scrap of violet baby blanket. The second one is a square of gray fabric with a Thrax sea serpent embroidered on it. The third is simply plain gray fabric. The fourth is a bit of aeterna, very plain. The fifth is another square of plain gray fabric, this one with the sigil of the King's Own. The sixth is a square of green seasilk with a sword worked upon it. The seventh is white silk with a spiraling red vine embroidered on it. The eighth is white aeterna edged in gold threads. The ninth is a dirty piece of wool. The tenth is brilliant green seasilk, embroidered with tiny clovers all over it. The eleventh is umbra with the sigil of House Wyrmguard embroidered thereon. The twelvth is also umbra, this time with the sigil of House Thrax. The thirteenth is umbra edged in gold. As the song is sung, the appropriate bit of fabric is placed into the brazier to be consumed.

1 Kyrios is a hope for the sanctity of life, a beautiful new thing being born, something that can grow into something new and greater than that which proceeded it:

Precious love of mine
For nine long months time
Small one within me
No greater love than thee

2 Galen is love. Passion, ambition, attraction, and all the things that attract people to one another. Let the world be full of love and lovers:

My great love for you is a burning flame
Now one and whole, we are never the same
Half of me is you; what am I to do?
To your dear love I will always be true.

3 Leona is faithfulness and fidelity, the choice of a dearest friend. Beautiful and true, a close bond of spirits in trust and friendship:

Sister not of body but of spirit.
To you do I tell secrets; you hear it.
A special bond of choice and freedom dear:
Our friendship in the purest sense is clear.

4 The Choir is a group of us with similar talents who all sing the Dream as it really is. Freedom and love and beauty:

Beautiful dreamers, listen now to me
Hear my song truly; it lets you be free
Power and strength coming with every note
Let the world be as my song is so wrote.

5 Corban is strength and honor, the true knight. Given the opportunity to do something the right way, he will take the path of righteousness:

Brother you are, though no brother you be
Like my own kin is how you are to me.
To you I entrust the most precious weight
Knowing that you are a knight very great

6 Luca was a Champion, and he stood for the honor of others. He also fights for the Light as a member of the Inquisition. Although he may not be a knight, he is a great man, admirable and true:

A fighter you are, champion to all
Dueling for true, never taking the fall.
Working for Light yet behind the closed door
We're lucky to have you give 'em what for!

7 Tikva represents sisterhood and platonic love. The sort of love that comforts you through tears and is joyful for you when you're joyful, love that melds in harmony:

Beautiful singer, sing your songs with me
Together meld in perfect harmony
Best friend and girl friend and companion true
I'll always be found singing next to you.

8 Ailith is Faith, a friend who has recently found her way to greater heights. Faith and love of the gods is important, a real true religious sort of love:

Peaceful, faithful, knowing of mystery,
Joyful, respectful, caring of history.
Guide me in the ways of the gods and love:
Advice that is tempered by those above.

9 Ian is loyalty. Love born of loyalty between soldiers, comrades in arms, in the field true. Love that is camaraderie:

Always at my back, you do yourself ride
Your right sword hand always at my side
Forever my protection with your men
Come! An adventure! I'll need you again!

10 Clover represents family love, the love that comes from sharing the same life growing up and the natural love and loyalty that inspires:

Beloved sister, bound by blood ties --
We would be best of friends yet anywise.
Bubbly temperament, always a joy:
When you were born, I was glad not a boy!

11 House Wyrmguard is where I grew up and how I developed my fascination with dragons. The love of House Wyrmguard, an ancient house, is one of fealty and devotion forever:

Though on the ground, the wyrms may yet lumber
The House recalls: Not all dragons slumber.
Danger is near? They will not surrender
As Valardin lives, they will remember.

12 House Thrax is where I married and to whom I currently owe fealty. Although I am not a sailor, I am learning to love the sea, and though I have reservations about some of their traditions, I am learning to love their culture:

A mariner's dream, so the current flows
Whenever the tide is out, there Thrax goes
Rough Islanders living off of the sea
One of their number is where you'll find me.

13 Music is what I want to fill the world with. Beautiful music is the song to which we should all live our lives, singing the Dream true and full of love:

A song is a song, but in the right key,
It can be a balm for you or for me.
All the world's dreams can be sung in music:
Finding the right words is the only trick.

Cora will learn the ritual through being present when Sorrel performs it so that she might perform it herself to teach others.

Sabella will quietly watch Sorrel's ritual with rapt attention!

Charlaine will learn the ritual through being present when Sorrel performs it. Charlaine will definitely try to perform it herself later in order to spread the knowledge and asisst in cleaning the primum.

Sparte will be present to observe, learn, and lend support.

Amari will sit in to watch Sorrel enact the ritual so she might learn and perform it herself (not nearly as awesomely, but she'll try her best when it's time)!

Having been invited to witness Sorrel's ritual, and hoping to learn it, Alexis attends to bear witness - and if necessary, offer protection, presuming any danger is even physical.

Carita will observe with awe, take notes as she listens, and quietly lends her support to the cleansing of the primum. There are moments when Sorrel's song brings tears to her eyes, or a smile to her face and while she might want to close her eyes to let that song wash over her, she doesn't so that she can witness every last moment.

Invited to bear witness to the ritual, Denica will stay with them and study with her so that she might perform the ritual herself someday.

Caspian watches the ritual with interest, and when it is over, he can already be seen scribbling down verse ideas!

Katarina is but one of many invited along to bear witness to the ritual that may very well begin cleansing the primum of its poison in the land. She listens, watches with rapt attention and intrigue, ready to help however she may.

Sina has been invited to witness the ritual to learn it. She has agreed to bear witness and learn, that the primum may be cleansed.

Ohboyohboyohboy! THIS IS IT! IT IS HAPPENING! /MAGIC/!!! Well, the first step towards it anyway. When Sorrel invites her to come observe the ritual, Caith is the first one there. Bright and early. Probably even before she and Galen and the baby are even awake that day. 'Don't mind me,' she'll shout through the door at the Thrax Estate. 'I'll just wait out here in the hall until you guys are ready!' A few minutes will go by. 'Are you ready now?' A few minutes more. 'How about now?' Five minutes later: 'Do you need help in there? Have you fallen down and hurts yourselves? Come on! Let's get a move on! IT'S RITUAL DAY! WHEEEE!' Caith is there with paper and pen and ink, all bright-eyed and bushy tailed and ready to take /NOTES/. And when Sorrel is done, she will ask /QUESTIONS/ to double-check, triple-check and cross-check her notes. Because, and maybe this isn't clear but: Caith is VERY INVESTED in this.

Bianca will also be observing so that in the future she too may perform and teach others for the betterment of all humanity.

Sasha will sit and carefully watch the ritual as Princess Sorrel performs it. She is eager to learn to so she can help the Primum be cleansed.

Olivia is likewise joining in to watch and learn!

Edain willl participate and observe the ritual. He will be somber and respectful, but he will be paying close attention. His intention is to attempt to perform this rite at Cairn Valardin in the very near future.

Desiree will be there to witness and study the ritual. She is hoping to learn to perform it.

Zoey will be there as well, watching and, knowing her, probably taking notes. Because ritual. Learning rituals. Et cetera.

Fredrik will, of course, join in these proceedings, knowing how valuable this ritual is, both for himself and for the Compact as a whole. For all our futures, it must be spread.

Reese will join this and will try to assist Sorrel however needed. She will attempt to pay close attention and to learn how to do the ritual herself so that such can be done when the time comes for her own. She will be respectful, helpful and largely quiet during the ritual.

Richard will be present in Sorrel's ritual. So that he may learn it and use it in the future.

Victus is here to learn. He doesn't know much about what he's looking at, so he's taking down notes with a quill and parchment and saving all the details in his head.

Kace will be joining in on the ceremony in order to learn the ritual that she might complete it herself someday soon.

Sorrel gathers friends and family to her, around a warm brazier. "The time has come," she says, "To cleanse the primum and to sing the world as it truly is. This is my song. This is my ritual. Yours may be different, in turn, for it must truly come from you. I pray that each of you supports me wholeheartedly in this and that you take this as a sample to perform your own ritual."

"Let me sing you a song of love in thirteen verses, each one carefully written with time and creativity. Let me sing Love into the Dream with joy and sacrifice."

And then she sings, feeding each slip of verse and a small piece of fabric into the fire, and with each one she weaves love through them all. The love of a child, the love for her husband. For her sister of the heart, for the choir. Freedom and strength, chivalry and righteousness. Honor and comfort, joy and harmony. Faith now, and loyalty. The love for family and home, the love for duty carried long through the generations, for fidelity and for music and happiness.

With each verse her love, deep and abiding and joyous, wraps around all of them. It pushes away the darkness, it pushes at the poison. She is seeking to reshape the future and her contribution is love, and there is one timeless moment where everyone assembled feels that love course through them. And while it fades, each of them knows they will remember always the strength of Sorrel's heart as she fights for the people she loves the most, for her family, for her friends, for the Compact, for humanity.

Since the weather has gotten good again it's time for the Second Annual Season of Free Children's Plays to start up in Nightingale Park the Lowers! Princess Sabella Grayson along with a host of others has pulled together some of the city's greats for one night a week while the weather holds to entertain the many orphans and poor families of the Lowers. Just a way to bring a little art and fun to the lives of those that need it! Light refreshments to be served at each performance with actors, painters, playwrights, musicians, and of course Princes and Princesses able and willing to talk to interested children about things after the show! The season will run until the cold of winter makes it prohibitive to sit outside. The current lineup looks to be:

The Seafoam Princess, The Fox and the Rooster, The Grumpy Gryphon, The Brothers Redrain, The Dragon and the Mouse, and The Reflection's Wish.

For the most part Niklas' participation is in writing the plays and helping Gianna write the songs. Otherwise, he goes where needed. Need an actor for a show? He's there. The Nightingale's got a cough? He'll sub in. Need a background painted? Well, it's not really his thing, but he can do it! Whatever it takes to make certain this series is a big success! He's also willing to hobnob so as to add his celebrity to bring more attention to the cause.

Tabitha will be happy to use her painting skills for set design and the creation of props, aiming to make them eye-catching and lovely in a way that will charm young minds. After each show she'll also be delighted to talk to the children for as long as they want, possibly doing some wax crayon drawing with them if seems like a fun and fitting idea.

Gianna leads the Bard's College's efforts to help the plays be a success. This means composition of music (themes for characters!) and possible involvement in Acting if there's a need for someone dignified and beautiful. No? Fine. Music, then. If Gianna has a soft spot, it's dealing with disadvantaged kids.

Who is that bubbly woman wearing a rooster hat and trilling out a merry cock-a-doodle-doo? Who is that laughing lady with the faux-fox tail pinned to the seat of her trousers chasing the children around before the play? Who is that spirited lass huffing and puffing dramatically in her dragon get-up for all to see? Why, it's Princess Caith! Every show, she shows up in some outfit (let's just tell it like it is: they're costumes .. ridiculously cute costumes) themed to whatever play is being performed. She plays games with the children as they wait for things to begin! She offers her lap to anyone who doesn't have a mommy or a daddy here with them (let's circle up and watch together!)! She hands out little stuffed toys (foxes! roosters! gryphons! dragons! meeses and mices! a princess doll with brushable hair!) after the shows and gives out hugs to any kid who wants or needs one! 'Wasn't this fun? Oh, I do hope to see you again at the next one! I will save you a spot beside me!'

But she's not just here for the fun of it (although it /is/ super fun). She's also representing the Heart in Hand charity! Caith has care packages for the parents, things that they will find useful in their daily lives. Bread and hard cheese for the tummies. Blankets for a good night's rest. Hats and mittens in the colder months to keep warm, lighter cloaks in the summer to keep off the rain. Things of that nature. And if they need something else, she lets them know: reach out to Heart in Hand because Heart in Hand can help!

Evonleigh will perform in the plays as an actress, happy to draw on her years of acting troupe performances to put on a show for the children of Arx. She will of course happily talk to the audience in the post-show talks as well.

As a child of the street, Jareth is looking forward to lending his name, aciting talent, and story to help those in the burroughs. Jareth the great, even in his own mind, being a great example of a way out of the slums and dangerous life of crime and poverty that ends so many lives prematurely. Also the fact the Princeess Sabella has asked if he would help, for one cannot say know to a patron of the arts like the princess!

Alessandro is here to help in any way he can! Be it ushering, looking lawyer-ly to discourage pickpocketing, or whatever Sabella needs on the day. He has also brought along his and Margret's new ward, Valarienne, one of the children rescued by Prince Ainsley, so that she can see the show and perhaps play with some of the other children.

When the question is asked, 'Won't somebody think of the children?' - inevitably Princess Sabella answers back, 'I'm on it!' And with this particular venture, The People's Princess arranges for the Second Annual Season of Free Children's Plays to start up in Nightingale Park the Lowers!

With the help of Lady Tabitha with set design, Gianna Whisper - the Nightingale Herself!, Lady Evonleigh performing, Jareth the Actor also performing, Prince Niklas filling in wherever needed, and Lord Alessandro making sure everything goes smoothly, the plays are put on exceptionally well. The Seafoam Princess, The Fox and the Rooster, The Grumpy Gryphon, The Brothers Redrain, The Dragon and the Mouse, and The Reflection's Wish - all wonderful children's stories the children of Arx know well - come to life on the stage.

And off the stage, Princess Caith is handing out smiles and stuffed animals to all the children who want so desperately to attend, paying special attention to children who seem like they might not have too many toys at home. All in all it's a grand, joyous affair, and the people of the city are happy to see Princess Sabella taking the lead in being so wonderful to the children.

To introduce the newest Grayson Prince to their subjects, Princess Sabella and Prince Niklas will embark on a tour of the Crownlands taking with them family and friends that will help entertain the populace and make good impressions all around. This is not only to show people that Princess Sabella and Prince Niklas are amazing, but to introduce them to other family members (or in the case of Cassima should she join, future family members!) and remind those around Bastion that the Graysons truly do care about their people! There will be a parade, some charity work/donations, some free concerts, short one act plays, and maybe even a ball put on for commoners and nobility alike to attend! None Greater Than Grayson!

Is Niklas writing those one act plays? You bet your ass he is. Is Niklas occasionally singing with Gianna when she's okay with it? Uh, yeah. And, should Tikva decide to join them, is Niklas joining the Princess to banjo the living shit out of the good people of the Crownlands? Oh yes! But what Nik is really there for is gladhanding. He's there to let people know that as the new Prince of Grayson, and as the husband of Sabella, the People's Princess, he's there to be the People's Prince. As such he will be putting the majority of his effort into making friends with locals, especially the magistrates or mayors of the little towns and villages they visit along the way, as well as important commoners in Bastion itself. This isn't to say he's ignoring the Grayson family or their vassal lords at the steadfasts where they make their stops, but he wants to make certain the people know the story of Niklas and Sabella, the difficulties they faced and overcame in making their love match become a reality, and the happy ending that they're going to have. The two of them are the fairy tale so many commoners would like to believe the nobility live, and his job is to give each and every person he meets share in that magic.

Gianna is doing what she does best: singing. Singing and music, but she's always on about her best instrument being her voice, so really, she's just accompanying herself on the citole. May as well use that new instrument!

Delilah will gladly contribute to gathering stories, charming the populace, and listening to the various tales and concerns of the people. She's all about listening and showing a direct interest in the pulse of affairs in their home. After compiling all the information she can, she'll present a bound book of stories, legends, tales, and findings -- such as is appropriate, obviously any ribald love poetry or such gets a good scrubbing -- to the happy couple.

Roxana will be turning on the charm and accompanying Sabella on this diplomacy tour on behalf of her marriage and House Grayson. She'll subtly direct conversations towards the Princess' own virtues and good taste, as well as to the very successful history that Prince Niklas has as a playwright. Surely the Grayson vassals and common people can appreciate the arts, and how proud Grayson is to have such a famed talent now among their own. Roxana will use this opportunity to boost morale regarding House Grayson as a whole as well as the future of the Compact with Grayson at the helm.

Liara heard that someone might want a ball for Sabella and Niklas, and now there's going to be a ball, if she has anything to say about it. It will be hosted in Bastion, in the very biggest ballroom she can wrangle up. She's going to go ahead of the others to make sure it's all arranged to her liking. She plans on an extravagant affair, with abundant food and drink, music and dance, lots of floral decorations with pink peonies (their wedding flower, as she might explain to anyone asking) featuring strongly, and one big pelican-shaped cake.

Tabitha will naturally be talking up her wonderful patron, Princess Sabella, and the equally fabulous Prince Niklas, but she'll also provide her painting skills to add some artistry to their tour. Beautiful posters, invitations and cards will be made to advertise events as needed, and in addition she'll do whatever she can to provide decorations, props and other bits of loveliness to them. Yay! It'll be fun!

Princess Sabella and Prince Niklas are touring Grayson lands, and it seems Marquis Fairen was actually already planning a similar event, to have the Leary Family take the time to visit the citizens of Leaholdt together and show his people his care for them. While the tour goes on, Fairen makes it a point to visit with his people directly, speaking with the merchants and gentry of his Holdings to get a better, personalized understanding of the issues they face. Not to mention, he ensures to hold court, and resolve the issues he can in person, rather than through a messenger sent between Leaholdt and Arx. As for the Prince and Princess that are visiting, he welcomes them readily and hosts a dinner for them to honor not only their union, but the future Grayson Prince or Princess the pair of them have conceived. Additionally, for his own family, he encourages them to tag along, and expresses that they will get the opportunity to see the lovely Lady Valitina Leary II should they come along.

Using her incredibly commanding presence, okay not incredible but darn commanding darn it, Coraline will show her leadership capacity and help keep everything all organized and in military precision.

Kaldur will cut a fine and noble figure in the touring party, he and his fine, palomino warhorse Dumpling, a display of resplendent, martial gallantry. He'll turn on the charm, flash his dimples hither and yon, and polish his green griffins armor to a fare-the-well. The armor is a from none other than Princess Reese Grayson! Flying Seliki colors with the colors of the Great House to which he ultimately owes fealty. He'll also bring along Captain Hajo Xander and Cobalt, Commander of the Seliki Engineering Corps' cavalry to have the commander's face known.

Duke Bisland arranges a warm welcome for the new, happy couple when they visit Pridehall. Though he will not be there himself, being required in Arx, he does send word ahead to his family and Voice there, so that the strong relationship between Grayson and Bisland is put on display.

Prince Niklas and Princess Sabella, newly married and eager to settle in, make a tour of various Grayson lands. They start in Bastion with a parade, and performances by Gianna Whisper. Princess Roxana welcomes them too, showing family feeling and support and carrying the glad tidings of their arrival. Princess Liara throws them a party - she likes parties and it's clear she likes Sabella, and she does an excellent job of ensuring it goes off without a hitch.

They travel through Hawkhold with Lady Delilah singing their praises (metaphorically, she's not trying to compete with the Nightingale after all), and the people are clearly taken with the beautiful artwork Lady Tabitha makes for the goodwill tour. They travel through Leaholdt with Marquis Fairen, are welcomed in Pridehall by Duke Gabriel himself, and are made comfortable and at home by Lord Kaldur in the heart of Pearlspire.

Overall it's a joyous, occasionally raucous party made all the more safe with Princess Coraline providing some security for them, and keeping them all on schedule. At the end of the festivities, it's pretty clear that the new Prince Niklas has been welcomed into the fold, and that both he and Princess Sabella clearly believe there's None Greater Than Grayson.

Jeffeth Bayweather got the High Lords and the King to sign the treaty as agreed to previously.(Action #2328). He has raised a good amount of funds. It is time to get to business!!! Jeffeth himself will be using his crazy physical prowess to help do the actual manual labor, he'll be hauling stone and moving logs all the livelong day, singing as he goes. Come on guys! Back to work! Yay!

He would like to thank: Archduchess Eleyna Velenosa, Prince Victus Thrax, Prince Darren Redrain, Duchess Belladonna Pravus, Archlector Aureth Grayhope, Marquis Orvyn Harthall, and Prince Edain Valardin for their generous donations to see that the site get built. Let it be known they were the ones who funded this endeavor!

This is to be an orphanage and an abbey. It is meant to honor the Gods and honor Sandrine as a Hero of the Faith for her sacrifice long ago as told in the story of Sandrine. (Clue 29486). But it is not a gaudy shrine or statue, there will be a plaque telling the story of Sandrine, leaving out the part of her current residence. Other than that it is an orphanage and an abbey. Originally Jeffeth had been raising enough resources to build a combination, but people wanted to give and give. So the site shall be one building to serve as the abbey and another as the orphanage. Both will be inside a wall with the inclusion of two watch towers on either end of the walled in bailey. A small area for gardening and farming and some housing to support the staff, soldiers, and clergy who will be serving at Morning Mist Hill.

Jeffeth will also be including a special room in the orphanage. Bigger than it ought to be a room for one person that will more than likely go empty most of the time. It will be comfortable, but not lavish. It will have a large window that overlooks the entire yard where the children will play, with a sword rack positioned to face the window, designed so that the hilt of the blade can face outwards to the window.

Jeffeth will be working hard to help make sure the site gets built, and that it's know that this is now a place of pilgriamage.

Thena contributes the services of the Knights of Solace out on the road to guard and protect those moving to and from Morning Mist Hall, and adds it to the regular Solace patrol routes. The Hall will also become a waystation for Knights moving through that area. She is also SUPER PROUD of Jeffeth even if she doesn't tell him to his face (but she might, who knows).

Being an orphan herself, Harper has volunteered her time with the Knights of Solace as a way to pay them back for helping orphans. So when Jeffeth tells her about this project, she is not only willing to help, but she is also enthusiastic about the entire project. She will pitch in alongside Jeffeth to help build it and to provide whatever support is needed that she can offer. If Jeffeth needs an errand girl then she'll be it. If it's climbing up ladders or other nimble feats to accomplish it then she's more than happy to do that as well.

Jeffeth had no idea how close to Aureth's heart this was going to be, but it totally is, and he supports him wholeheartedly and vocally, both in rounding up support for the project, and arranging for prayer books and Faithy, Deathy accoutrements for the abbey itself. Aureth can be a real powerhouse when it comes to marshalling religious support about something about which he is really passionate, and Roland and Sandrine are pure and good and lovely and he loves them, so.

There are many things that Orvyn does well, but there are some things that he needs to do better and when it comes to charity work, this would be one of those areas that he needs to learn more from. Sir Bayweather has been a long time client and almost friend, sadly the two have not had an opportunity to speak with each other as much as they would both likely enjoy, however the Godsworn Knight of Solace has always been a shining example to Orvyn when it comes to what to put one's effort behind. With that in mind, Orvyn has studied the Knight closely, following his rise in charity and in doing so, has found something that he can finally apply his skills to. Offering funding from the Harthall coffers, as well as his expertise in economic facilitation, Orvyn will ensure that all funds sent to charity will be utilized to their utmost and that not a single silver goes unaccounted for. Unforatunately he knows how beuracracy's work and it is Orvyn's will to see Jeffeth's dream and orphanage realized to the utmost.

With roots twined with the Lowers and having been an orphan himself, Andry eagerly volunteers to be the project's jack of all trades. If there's something that needs to be done, he'll do it. Whether it be assisting with the heavy lifting, or taking on extra Solace patrol duties, spreading the word, building things -- if it needs getting done, Andry's the guy to make it happen. One piece of the project that he takes particular care overseeing is the outdoor play area and the building of physical structures for the kids to enjoy. He makes sure there are plenty of things for the kids to climb on, crawl through, and swing upon. Hey, he might even test a few those swings and crawl spaces out himself just to make sure that, you know, they're functional (and fun!). He won't sing, but he will most certainly whistle while he works.

Martin was delighted when Sir Jeffeth brought this particular project to him. Like many others who are donating their time and energy to the cause, Martin, too, spent many years after he retired from the road as a teacher and caretaker within the local orphanage in Arx itself. He donates what he can in the way of silver and other material goods, as well as the assurance that once it is built and functional that he will continue to offer his time there as well, as a teacher of both religious and secular subjects.

Sabella is talking to all her noble friends about what an amazing endeavor this is! How helpful it will be for the children, how important to the Faith, and how wonderful it is that legends such as Sandrine are honored in this way. She will talk it up while not so subtly hinting that donations would be nice--materials, money, but also manpower to help get this built. The faster it is, the better for the children! She will also stress how wonderful Sir Jeffeth is to have put this all together. What an amazing man to have risen as he has!

What's an orphanage without people to fill it with love? Without priests and knights to open their arms and welcome the orphans, Morning Mist Hill would be just a building and nothing more. So as the site is being built, Caith is going around and talking it up! She is telling people about Sandrine's story, about their journey through the Grey Forest to find the site of her last stand, about how the Reaver's would only allow them to build an orphanage in her honor on that spot if the Compact would agree to a treaty to leave their lands alone, about how all the High Lords AND the King came together to sign the treaty because they all believed in the importance of the orphanage /that much/ and about how now -- right now -- the orphanage is being built. She is bringing people together and she is recruiting folks to staff the orphanage so that on day one?

Morning Mist Hill will be more than an orphanage. It will be even more than a shrine. It will be a HOME.

Sir Jeffeth Bayweather, fresh from the events at the Tragedy, has not just cleaned the orphanage but also continues to show his charity toward orphans. Working, or so it is rumored, with the Nox'alfar themselves he has gotten approval from the Compact's allies to build an orphanage. There is also a rumor that the King and the High Lords of the Compact have signed some sort of treaty protecting that area, and Sir Jeffeth has raised funds himself to build it. And so the Morning Mist Hill Orphanage and Abbey is built. While he hauls rocks and helps the workmen, he is often heard praising all those who gave aid and generous donations to assist in the establishment of this place special to his heart - Archduchess Eleyna Velenosa, Prince Victus Thrax, Prince Darren Redrain, Duchess Belladonna Pravus, Archlector Aureth Grayhope, Marquis Orvyn Harthall, and Prince Edain Valardin.

The Morning Mist Hill Orphanage is not just an orphanage though - it is also an Abbey. Dedicated to the Pantheon, Sir Jeffeth makes sure that the Gods are honored here, and works with the Faith to ensure that the orphans housed there have every opportunity to learn about the Faith and to potentially find in it the home he has.

And they have heroes of their own, too. This is no ordinary site, but the location where it is said the Dame Sandrine, Knight of Solace held against demons to protect orphans from the forces of the Abyss until relief could arrive. There is also a library there, a quiet place for tales of heroism and faith to be read, and this he makes sure is dedicated to Brother Martin, who has inspired so many to walk a path of Faith and Honor.

Grandmaster Thena adds the Orphanage to the list of waystations, and many a Knight of Solace takes an evening's rest there - to recover, to recouperate. In some cases, Knights recovering from grevious wounds ask to work and serve there helping with the orphans. It benefits all concerned and starts to become one of Solace's favorite places to be.

Archlector Aureth also supports the effort, representing the interests of the Faith in the Abbey, making sure its distance from Arx does not cause it to suffer any neglect. Harper Ashdown, an orphan herself also gives what aid she can. Jeffeth's brother Andry helps quietly, with Princess Sabella, Princess Caith, and Marquis Orvyn aid in spreading news about this new orphanage, recruiting staff, and making trade arrangements to ensure that the highest quality materials are used at excellent prices, so that it is built to last.

And everywhere, the memory of Brother Martin and the legend of Dame Sandrine are waiting - in every quiet corner and every stone, from floor to roof this is a place that speaks poignantly of home, love, and chosen family.

Action: The newly established Bard's College has been given a task by Bliss Whisper on behalf of the Whisper House: they are to use 500 social resources the House already donated to find some of the best instrument makers in the compact and see if they can discover new sounds.

This is also a great opportunity to talk about the Bard's College in various villages, towns, and cities: hopefully this will encourage traveling musicians to make a stop at the College in Arx and might lure some musicians to the city as well.

Gianna will be holding performances as she travels, testing instruments by playing them, and so on and so forth. Basically, she will use her charm and skill to hype the college as much as she can, which should help legitimize it in the eyes of the Compact.

Porter isn't what one would call connected within the musical sphere of influences, but there are a number of musical instruments that do have their uses in the navy. Drums to keep the beat of the rowers, signaling horns, and even more for parades and events. And he has a few ancillary connections, socially, that he can direct toward the Bard's College. Porter will primarily seek out his military contacts, as they are industry sources. Even if they aren't able to meet the needs, they surely know who the bespoke instrument dealers are.

Performances you say? Well, performances need audiences and Caith is just absolutely adorable and charming AF -- she is sooper dooper good at flittering into bars and taverns, salons and dance houses, theaters and halls and getting people excited about hosting a performance by Gianna -- THE Gianna -- from the Bard's College. Oh yes, the Nightingale herself! These concerts become the /must-attend/ events everywhere they go and anyone who is aaaaaanyone makes certain to be seen at these parties.

River has been touring the various taverns inns, and concert halls putting his harp skills to good, use, using his small area of skill in the area of social areas to talk up the bard college. While he doesn't seem to have much in the way of military connections he is plenty connected to the various circles of lords and ladies, his music and talent allowing him to be at various parties and events, where he is able to let others know of the Bard's college's work. This increases his donations of silver, with many benefactor's pushing both social clout and Economic backing to the college.

If there is one thing Princess Elgana Redrain loves it is a good show. When word reaches her about Gianna's tour she jumps at the chance to bring the Nightingale, and her talent, that much closer to the North. She'd accompany the tour as far north as Gianna dares to travel in winter using her own social contacts, and pull as a Princess of Farhaven, to spread the word amongst the populace and help secure lodging and even helping hands for the tour. She'd ensure that not a single person was left not knowing of the Bard College or Gianna, the Nightingale. Back in Arx, she'd see about working with any others on getting crafters excited to be a part of the Bard college by either helping fix up the college itself or create musical instruments for its use.

Sabella will happily reach out to any contacts she knows, both those in the crafting world when it comes to people who might make instruments and also just people in general in the areas that Gianna is traveling to in order to secure lodging and talk up the Bard's College. If nothing else, maybe it will allow her to stay in elevated lodging and play for some nobility while she's at it! To add to this (and ensure the nobility trust that the Bard's College is totally serious and on the up and up), Sabella will accompany Gianna on a few of her stops, happy to talk up the Bard's College, but also the perform with the Nightingale (should she be all right with it!) to show that hey, if the Bard's College can teach a princess to sing that well maybe there's hope for everyone!

With a mission and with friends, the Bard College denizens sally forth to find better quality musical instruments, and maybe even uncover something new! Lord Porter helps, with contacts far and wide. River Whisper helps too, holding concerts and showing off his harp skills. Princess Elgana helps as they travel north, introducing them around and bringing the Nightingale to cheer the Northern taverns and push away the cold up in Redrain.

Princess Caith and Princess Sabella choose to divide and conquer, working together to spread the word far and wide in support of the Bard College and the concerts they're holding. And overall it's a huge success. In the dead of winter, the warmth of music is an almost tangible thing, and the travelers find themselves welcomed everywhere they go. And the merchants are glad to show them their finest instruments, and these journeymen bards get their pick of some of the best instruments in the realm.

And the absolute best find is a beautiful, masterfully carved instrument something like a viole, called a "citole" by the peddler who offers it to them after a particularly fine performance, telling a story of how it was passed through her family for generations, but she can't really even play it. And so they return to Arx, their mission successful and a new instrument to try to figure out during the rest of those cold winter nights.

Let's put on a show!

After some dawdling, it is finally time for Niklas Kennex to have his debut at the Black Rose Theater featuring his comedy The Playwrights, a play about two (somewhat familiar) playwrights, and their growing rivalry during a royal playwright contest. The final synopsis of the play can be found in the The Playwrights - Final Version book (Other The Playwrights objects are of a draft and are owned by people who refuse to junk them because they are dust addicts, not that I'm talking about anyone in particular, Bastien.) and in a black journal to be posted 6/18/18. Niklas and his entourage will be working tirelessly to drum up excitement for his debut.

The following PC actors are being invited to participate in the action. (Most have been confirmed as participating. Other roles will be portrayed by NPC BRT actors.)

Lumen Whisper as Master Ashby Ravelin
Alejandro Rossetti as Lord Eduard Planchard
Yasmine Rovashani as Mistress Bailey
Jareth as Sir Miles Gloriosus

Direction by Bastien, set design by Mailys Corsetina (carpenter) and Lady Tabitha Whitehawk (painting), costume design by Aurora Thornburn, music by Nightingale Gianna and general hype by Princess Sabella Grayson and Rook Grayward.

And no, Lumen! Eduard and Ashby don't kiss!

Bastien is...grudgingly directing. But even though it was not his first choice of project to work on, he never works with anything less than total focus and dedication. The play is not his particular style, but he hones the comedy til it's sharp enough to cut -- if not in style, then at least in precision and timing. The actors likely get very tired of hearing "Pick up your cues!" but by the time the show opens, it has the pace it needs for the comedy to thrive.

Ashby and Eduard do /not/ kiss in the play. However, he will grudgingly allow the production to at least skim across a moderate amount of sexual tension. IF HE MUST.

Jareth looks forward to returning to the stage with the debut of a young protege playwright, Lord Niklas. An elder of the Black Rose Theatre, the lithe and charming actor will bring his usual flair and dedication to his craft in hopes of whooing the audience and holding them into the palm of his hand even when not the lead.

Yasmine Rovashani has made a name for herself by playing secondary characters in many of Arx's most popular productions. The Ravashari's natural comedic timing and, let's face it, ability and experience in working with Bastien, bring the character of Mistress Bailey to life in a way that makes the character relatable and yet does not detract from the performances of the leads. She'll also leverage her current popularity as a dancer and model to hype up the play and, hopefully, lure in the audience that it so richly deserves.

How does one do justice to a man as complicated and deeply, deeply, deeply feeling as Bastien--err... ASHBY. Lumen is bringing the brand of demure preciousness she's best known for to this all-around lovable grump! The whisper hides the tender, longing heart of Lord Eduard's best friend forever behind a protective armor of condescension, theatrical arm-crossing, and childlike pouting fits --- but not so thoroughly that the audience won't see the genuine man beneath, longing for others to reach out to him for unsolicited companionship!

...and then they kiss, right?

Aurora Thornburn, the prized tailor for the Mummers, creates each costume worn by the actors in the performance. She takes into consideration color, detail, and the importance of clothing in being able to portray the right feel within each scene. She wants the clothes to shine in their own right, creating emotions and bonds between stage and audience.

Almost any play is improved by having a good set and props. Therefore Tabitha will lend her skills as a painter to help out with the creation of both of these things, and maybe also with stage make-up should it be required. She'll also be mentioning the play whenever she can, talking up Niklas and the rest of the cast and crew; but really, her main task is to take care of the artistry. How fun!

It's Gianna's first time providing instrumental accompaniment for a play. Thankfully, she realizes she is providing support here and not trying to steal the show. Various musicians associated with the College will be helping her out.

Princess Sabella has been waiting her WHOLE LIFE to be able to talk up a protege like Niklas! And she will do so at every opportunity! Don't you want to be there for Lord-maybe-Prince-by-then Niklas' debut at the Black Rose? Have you seen any of his other plays? Well, this one is even better and incredibly hilarious! He's such a brilliant playwright and no party, tea party, quiet passing in the street or at the market will go without her brightly and cheerfully trying to ensure all of those seats are filled opening night and beyond!

Rook's a hype man, it's true, he can make a dozen well connected people get all very excited over one thing and obsess over it for weeks. In regards to Niklas' play, since Rook's own proteges are both acting in it and designing the costumes, it only makes sense that Rook is stirring up a craze here too! He's going to push the angle of two of the most prestigious commoners having a hand in the show; Mistress Aurora Thornburn is one of the most famous crafters within the city and Yasmine is known as one of the most well known models as well. The courtier's approach is going to focus on the upper echelon, clientele and investors he works with daily, hopefully to get some real money-movers and influencers in the house that evening.

Two of Calista's protege's are involved in the production of this play and this truly makes her one happy Duchess. She supports Alejandro and Jareth completely in all their endeavors. The Duchess of Roses adores the theater and as such offers additional 'hype' for Niklas' efforts as well as silver so that the newly crowned Prince playwright can pay his actors, stagehands, and crafters. Calista has a broad circle of influential people and she makes certain they all hear about the upcoming play.

Though acting is not his main strength, Alejandro has been recruited to take the role of Lord Eduard Planchard. He throws himself into studying the lines and the delivery of said lines, relying on his hard work and natural talent to help him perform as best he can. Being in front of a crowd like this will be new for him but he's not particular nervous. Just focused on getting it right.

In the long winter months, what is there to stop people from losing their minds with boredom? Why art, of course! And Playwright Niklas Kennex means to deliver! He takes his troop of Mummers out to the further ends of the Compact and starts debuting his play. At first, it is decently received, but as the troop gets more and more comfortable with their parts, and starts making each part their own, the audiences become more and more appreciative.

The closer they get to Arx, the greater the acclaim, until it seems all of Arx itself - or at least all those interested in the theater - are holding their breaths in anticipation of Opening Night at the Blackrose Theater. Direction by Master Bastien? Jareth not in the lead - but still playing a supporting role? Audiences do love him, and he's known for hamming it up. Yasmine, character actor and dancer? Lumen Whisper as a... man? Alejandro in a lead role?

Even the setup is amazing - Legendary seamstress Aurora making the costumes, music by Gianna, set and prop painting by Tabitha? This could be a changing point in the Black Rose history - or at least an exceptionally amusing play.

Certainly they're finding support from the haute monde, as it were. Lady Calista, Princess Sabella, and Rook all actively promoting their proteges and talking about the upcoming comedy. They plan to LAUGH and CRY and TALK ABOUT IT WHILE USING EXCITEMENT AND WILD GESTICULATIONS.

And as opening night approaches, the theater-philes of Arx are eagerly in line for tickets and ready to make it a night out on the town!

Reese would like to make a huge push to protect the Shavs of the Gray Forest from the influence of the slaver. She would like to go in a systematic pattern visiting all the villages in the area and keeping documented records of where she was been and what she has found. She would like to encourage Shavs who are not yet under the influence to move for the own good and to help protect them while moving. She would like to try and take down half-finished huts, knowing it is a risk to herself and any who join her. She would like to leave the villages with a finished hut alone until she figures out to help them in a safe way, but she will talk to them and let them know she is trying to help. She will protect any from danger who she runs into along the way.

Reese is interested in trying to establish a barony in the Gray Forest to help protect the land and people there from the slaver. She will ask about interest in such as she goes along on this task. She will not use any force for pressure, but rather will try to lean upon her charm and reputation as a defender of the forest. She will feel out for interest, but will not make such a requirement for protection. She wants to get the mood and see if the Shavs in that area will be overall interested in such. She would like to travel the forest, protect the shavs and lay out the ground work for one day setting up a barony.

Alexis is, primarily, muscle and a meatshield with an impressive sword to put in the way of any harm that seeks to befall the people they protect - but her skill in the forest with regards to tracking and foraging isn't to be disregarded either.

To combat the strange mind enslaving huts

Sabella will happily help Reese out with the diplomatic portion of this mission! She will accompany her sister to all the villages she would like to visit, speak with them about their concerns and also Reese's concerns for their safety, and more importantly listen to what they have to say. She will talk up the Compact and the safety that it offers as well as how a Barony could do a lot to stabilize things for their people if they were interested in going that route. Should they be very resistant she will not push the issue, but inquire to how they are doing in that part of the forest, what their ways of life are like, and just generally anything they feel like they want to talk about.

Titania has been helping Reese and others with trying to keep the the Grey Forest safe, she has gone wiith weapons out this time she goes with Reese with her weapons at her side and her mind on Diplomacy. She will do he best to help Reese on this diplomatic mission.

The Gray Forest has shifted and changed quite a bit in the two years since Princess Reese has first started defending it. It's a place of opportunity, of shifting alliances, of uncertain population and security. Perhaps no one in the Compact is more familiar with the Gray Forest than Reese, and the shav of the forest are more familiar with Princess Ribbons than any other representative of the Compact as well.

And now there is ample reason to believe that these shav are ready to bend the knee at last. It is their last-ditch effort to try to find some kind of security, and the Horned God's cultists have convinced them to try to make the security of the Compact theirs at last. In uncertain times, this is the lifeline they're grabbing at, and now they come together to respond to Princess Reese and her diplomatic effort with Princess Sabella and Countess Titania, and the obvious protection represented by Dame Alexis.

Shav from the Compact are ready to bend the knee, they just need to know who to bend the knee -to-.