Umm, what I thought I was espousing was your approach Tuomo?? I thought the players in Fox and Lion did not know/extrapolate the explicit nature of actual supernatural powers...they certainly played as if they did not.

IMHO though quick resolution to the Rethemi impasse is not in the cards. Both parties have too many men and too many strongholds. Taking a Keep manned by 2 SPs by storm in a month takes at least 18 SPs and a BT and even then you have 13-25% chances. For a Castle (+1) manned by 2 SPs the same amount is 27 SPs and a BT for the same chances.

[...]
I was not aware of these probabilities (as Chafin would not be!), which seem realistic to me. However, I felt that in Nichola's game things were ..more.. slanted to an 'adventurous' angle. I could be completely wrong.

Yes, Nichola's game was more adventurous I guess. Still Chafin should have known, as a knight, the orders of magnitude. (You need at least 200-300 men (10 SPs) even for a minimally manne Keep and even then the success is far from granted and the casualties will high.)

[...] if everyone based their actions on probabilities of success. This probably mirrors the fear induced stable nature of most human affairs , but may not make for the most exciting game for some. (loonies like me)

However I still maintain my Chafin was provoked by good fortune and support...why he was almost given a mandate to destroy Tormau

Well, I'm more into simulations than games myself. I see it now as your Chafin III wanting to believe so bad that he forgot that the Gurim might ship you over and leave you there to rot while he takes over the south. A believable action from a man stressed enough, who sees no clear way out. Still I doubt whether Sir Marag could share my view. He is rather orange and white in his thinking.

A. Earl of Tormau
The Earl continues the activities of last month. IIRC I needed to get to Kustan in Larane – I will therefore need to hurry up. Go to Ithiko get an understanding what is going on there – issue orders and hurry to Kustan. Please let me know if there seems to be an issue of not making it in time.

I will make a proclamation which I will have cried out wherever possible:
“The actions of Herrin Barzak – the current holder of Ithiko – with regard to the daughter of my vassal Baron of Quiso are unhonourable and contrary to law and ways of Agrik. After exhausting all possible amicable remedies, I’ve no choice but to hear the pleas of my vassal and do as is my duty as a lord to protect him and assist him in his bid for justice.

Furthermore let it be known that worship of Morgath is proscribed in Hohnam and shall not be tolerated. The Bukrai is an abomination and has no standing in Rethem.”

I’ll of course let it be known that Baron of Winen has sworn fealty – but this can be a quieter matter for now.


B. Nykkal
1. continue our covert propaganda war efforts and incitement of hatred toward morgathianism
2. Continue building our relationship with both Hyen and Selvos – I want a report on Selvos’ health
3. I expect reports from our spies from Bedenes, Arketh regarding possible preparations for accepting Chafin’s host

C. Setarn
I’ll inform him of the meeting with Ryler. He needs to be prepared to accompany me to Kustan. I intend to take with us but minimum forces and will expect to be safeguarded by our good relations. Setarn must inform me if this is not realistic.

Setarn should be in touch with our closest Kubora allies to make sure they would warn us should Bedenes or Arketh start to march on us.

D. Forester
I expect Tarnys to use all his men and skills to monitor Arketh, Bedenes and possible natural harbours to give us an as early warning as possible regarding hostile movements.

E. Marshal
Continue from previous month. When I get to Ithiko I expect a report on the strength of the besieged forces, possible contacts we’ve made with any potential traitors within the keep, a plan on how we could take the keep with an assault plus a report on the readiness of equipment needed for such an effort (ladders and ram + other possible protective gear). I’ve sent riders ahead to make sure Dagald knows my wishes.

F. Baron of Quste
Continue as before – I expect a report on how things went with Bekar and our letter ruse.

G. Captain of the fleet
Continue as before – I expect a report on the usurper’s fleet, the status of our naval assets and any ships we might have captured these past two months. For next month I want plans on how to ensure that the sealanes to Tormau are as safe as possible for our fair.

H. Senior Peoni cleric + senior Agrikan cleric
At Ithiko there is a vile shrine to Balsha. I want this abomination gone. Please advise on how to accomplish this.

Communications

Letter to Selvos

"Dear Leni,

I regret to not have received any replies to my letters.

I wanted to inform you first hand of the events in Ithiko, lest you be misinformed. The earl of Ithiko, most likely due to some reasons only known to Morgath, has become molesting and abusing his son and his wife. He keeps them in dungeon and has Zaza hold their children. While ordinarily this would be his prerogative, but in this case the wife is the beloved daughter of my vassal – Quiso.

After exhausting all other possible remedies – including pleading to Ithiko’s honor and requesting Arech to intervene, I’ve no choice to hear the pleas of my vassal and do my duty as a lord to protect my men.

I still hope to hear from you. While we couldn’t unfortunately arrange a meeting while I was down south – perhaps you will visit our fair and we will have an opportunity to discuss our common interests then.

Best Regards,

Sir Denyl"

Letter to Chafin - copied to Hyen and posted by Tuomo earlier

Letter to Arketh
"Dear Akarata,

I wanted to inform you first hand of the events in Ithiko, lest you be misinformed. The earl of Ithiko, most likely due to some reasons only known to Morgath, has become molesting and abusing his son and his wife. He keeps them in dungeon and has Zaza hold their children. While ordinarily this would be his prerogative, but in this case the wife is the beloved daughter of my vassal – Quiso.

After exhausting all other possible remedies – including pleading to Ithiko’s honor and requesting Arech to intervene, I’ve no choice to hear the pleas of my vassal and do my duty as a lord to protect my men.

I hope that you will visit our fair and tourney and we will have an opportunity to discuss our common interests face to face then.

Best Regards,

Sir Denyl"

Letter to Bedenes
"Dear Akarata,

My lawyers want me to clear some legal matters which regard to the status of some holdings in Hohnam – some of them are making odd claims regarding Bedenes which I know cannot be true. Please be kind to send me the copies of the title documents regarding Bedenes, so that I can clear this little matter.

Can I expect to meet you at our fair and tourney?

All the Best,

Sir Denyl"

The CoE was set up by Erebir to guide Melderyn through the centuries.

Throughout its existence, it has fluctuated through periods of strong isolationism and other periods where it deemed Melderyn's interests were better served by influencing other political entities on Hârn (and maybe outside Hârn as well but this takes us out of the scope of the game).

The isolationist periods have roughly corresponded to when the Shek Pvar were in strong majority in the Council. The Eldrich period strongly influenced the SP political outlook, and the training the wizards receive tends to detach them from day to day life. Of course, there are always exceptions, Gwadira and Lothrim being extreme examples.

In recent times, the Council has tended to be more influenced by the interventionist side. This is because the world around Melderyn has been evolving, and events are starting to slip beyond their sedate control. For a long time the "embargo" served Melderyn's purpose by regulating the knowledge level, but this is starting to crack. The emergence of outside powers such as the Ivinians in Orbaal have seriously challenged the efficiency of the embargo, and direct attacks have even been mounted on Melderyn's interests (The Rape of Thay). Also other powers are emerging, which are becoming more difficult to control: Kaldor, Orbaal - and Rethem and Tharda which have been the result of damage control gone seriously wrong to contain the Corani Empire.

The underlying aim of the interventionist faction is to unite Hârn through voluntary adhesion, such as was done with the Kingdom of Elorinar and the (failed) attempt of Chybisa. However, there are some voices that are starting to urge greater involvment. Recently, the CoE took the unique step of banning one of its members, who was deemed to be much too extreme (Gwadira).

The present Council can be deemed as interventionist. Though the Gwadira debacle has cautioned the members about the lure of open power, the Rape of Thay was a reminder that Melderyn's supremacy will become increasingly challenged in the coming decades.

The current council is extending its influence in a stronger manner than ever before. It is working through Tymas of Bashwyl in Orbaal to undermine the Ivinians, it has set an influential agent close to the Kaldoran monarchy, it is tightening the bonds with Kanday through dynastic alliances (Jevas-Eriel) and close ties with the Crown Prince (Anaflas). It has also placed an agent in Rethem who has the ear of the strongest potential opponent to the reigning king (Nykkal of Claswith in Tormau).

One of the next candidate for voluntary adhesion is Kanday. Most of the prerequisites are in place: historical friendship between the realms (through the Aleathian odyssey, help to house Kand), recent ties (wedding between Jevas Toron and princess Eriel), Andasin's apparent disinterest in women, and the ear of Anaflas. There only remains to trigger the external threat that will put Kanday in difficulty and push the realm to ask Melderyn's protection.

This is where the situation becomes complicated, because the west is a complex ménage à trois. The external threat could come from Rethem or Tharda, but if the two ally this threat could become too strong for even Melderyn to cope with. Concurrently, if Rethem is too weak, either Tharda could conquer it and turn on Kanday, or Kanday could and escape from Melderyn's grasp. The scene is further complicated by fluctuating events in Tharda itself.

The current consensus is to keep Rethem non-aligned (with either Kanday or Tharda) and at current state of strength or weaker, but not so much as to become an easy prey for its neighbours. The ideal in this situation would be a feudal state with a less erratic king than Chafin at its head.

If the above policy looks like it would fail, then the alternative would be to promote a very powerful state who could become the external threat to Kanday. Workable scenarios could be a second Arlun-like Kuboran controlled Rethem (Melderyn has a good track record of checking barbarian invasions), or a strong king backed by the most warlike Agrikan orders.

In both scenarios the attempt should be made to reduce the Morgathian influence in the area, and in particular its stranglehold on Golotha. The latter should remain a free city, with - if possible - a more diverse Heptarchial Council in which a few members could be bought or controlled. This would enable the CoE to reinstate its subtle embargo in this entry point to Hârn.

You have a prearranged network consisting of a "well placed" agent in four of the major (PC) factions except the Morgathians. Nykkal can be one of these agents. You may also have seven other "well placed" agents in any other organization in Rethem (guilds, barons, constables, etc.). These agents are already paid for - most are in it for "the cause".

You may arrive by ship at Golotha on Nuzyael 1 with 1 SP of 'Low Guard' and 7 GRP in coin. Your Low Guard give you a better chance of getting messages through and getting accurate intelligence. Agents have arranged for a townhouse in Golotha for you to base your operations out of - you must choose your cover story.

The CoE promises support of 1 GRP/month to arrive at irregular intervals, hopefully quarterly. In addition, Prince Anaflas of Kanday offers 1 GRP/month in support of a 'better Rethem'. You have a letter of introduction from the King of Melderyn for Prince Anaflas. Arranging transport for these resources is left to you and Prince Anaflas.

I was unsure on how to interpret "well placed", so I have chosen positions that are fairly strategic but less potentially powerful than the Tormau advisor could be. I have also included a little background for each, to give flavour. This is drawn from canon (and one fanon) source plus some added info from me. Please let me know if they are OK with you:

Majors

Tormau - Nykkal of Claswith. Chamberlain and closest advisor of Earl Denyl Lynnaeus. Sleeps on the fourth floor of Tormau castle, right next to the Earl's room. Nykkal was born in Trierzon, and immigrated to Hârn in 705. He has been working with the CoE since 706 and is in the employ of the Earl since 707. (Tormau 7 and Melderyn 8 )

Shostim - Maryle of Shambren. Proprietor of the "Garden of Delight", Shostim's only house of courtesans. Many men of power visit its chambers for their leisure and much information is gathered during careless pillow talk. Maryle also does some limited business in pleasure slaves. (Shostim 4)

Techen - Egon of Hasslar. Scribe in the employ of Earl Revi Lenesque (note: here I have used the info from the Techen fanon article by Patrick Nilsson and John Sgammato). He is responsible for updating the earl's journal and gathering books attractive to his growing library. (Techen 8 )

If you don't permit this fanon in your p-Hârn, I'll come up with something else for Techen.

Hyen - Hoardal of Keleto. The only Mercantyler/Usurer of Hyen. Hoardal has one of the most difficult situations of any usurers on Hârn. The Copper Hook is constantly squeezing his operation to fund their little wars. It is only through careful bookeeping and clever manipulation that Hoardal has been able to stay in business. Zako of Varian (see below) helps him stay afloat by selling him goods at very low prices and taking good care of his family in Golotha. (Hyen 3)

Minors

Golotha - Zako of Varian (Player Character). Clothier dealing in linen and buckram (used for book covers, amongst other things). See full text in F11, Golotha 31 - Real identity: Vensit of Kelede, a Savoryan Shek Pvar member of the Council of Eleven and head of the network in Rethem . At 32 years old, he is the youngest member of the council and a brilliantly talented mage. (Melderyn 8 )

Vensit arrived in Golotha 5 years ago under the identity of Zako of Varian, a clothier importing linen from Emelrene and producing fine tablewares and altar dressings. He quickly established himself through the success of his vivid orange-dye, a tint popular in Agrikan households. In the last five years he has become very successful and now owns a posh townhouse not far from Chafin's square, next to the Palace of the Silver Orb (guildhall of the Golotha Mangai) and the Mercantyler's hall.

Vensit has been using the cover of his alter-ego's activities to set up his network in Rethem. His household (6 people) is composed of servants and journeymen he has recruited over the years, but who are in fact members of the Melderyn Royal Low Guard and the ossature of his network, as well as his discreet bodyguards. An additional 14 guards are scheduled to arrive this month, carrying with them funds from Cherafir and bringing the contingent under his orders to a full company.

Though this month's treasury will be in cash, the usual funds are received by sea transport on a quarterly basis, through a shipment of luxury Emelrene linen originating in fact from Cherafir. The products are supplied free, and so their resale on the Golothan market provides most of the budget, the balance being in species and accounted as profits from the sale of goods from Golotha on the away trip.

Textile goods are kept in the shop on the ground floor, or in the storage at the back of the shop. Vensit keeps enough money for working expenses in a small intricate safe in his bedroom, made by the master locksmith Charid of Althan, of Cherafir. The main treasury is kept in a hidden underground room that can be accessed from a secret door in the basement, in which three men always stand guard. A tunnel has also been dug from the basement in the last three years, and will soon reach the underworld under Northaven wharf. It is a fetid, dank affair but will provide a much needed escape route once it is finished. The basement also has an armoury, where good quality weapons, shields and armour are kept for a company of men.

Vensit communicates with his network through a bronze mirror located in the secret basement room. It is a large standing piece which needs two men to be carried. Vensit can only communicate with people who have been attuned to the mirror, which can only be accomplished by physically laying both hands on its surface. So far only the CoE, Anaflas (it was done during a stopover in Aleath on the way in), the network agents and the 6 low guards in the household are so attuned. The communication can only be initiated by Vensit, and has to be accepted by the recipient. The mage contacts his agents once a week, and makes a monthly report to the Council of Eleven - Sorry about this small bend about what I said about magic. I felt it was rather reasonable under the circumstances and I did not want to repeat my pigeon idea from the previous game (it will probably be taken up by others anyway).

Golotha - Ald of Ernaldin. "Master" of the Seaman's Guild. His younger brother works as housecleaner for the Cohorts of Gashang (see F44, Golotha 34). Ald was a harpooner who lost his left hand many years ago in an accident he does not discuss. The ship he was on at the time was on a whaling campaign in the Gulf of Ederwyn and got caught in a storm. When the wind calmed down, the ship was near Gyzem, an island of ill-repute. The crew caught sight of an enormous whale and decided to give chase. Ald harpooned the animal, who came back to the surface in a fury. The whiplash from the harpoon line caused it to wrap around Ald's left arm and sever it below the elbow. In shock, the harpooner didn't hang on when the beast rammed the vessel and fell into the water. This is when he realised it wasn't a whale but a horrible tentacled monster. The leviathan crushed the hull and then tore it apart, plucking Ald's shrieking comrades one by one and throwing them in its beaked maw. To this day, Ald does not know how he survived and still squirms in his sleep about that terrible night.

Chymak fishermen rescued the half-dead harpooner a few days later. He was nursed back to health by the tribesmen and learned about their beliefs. He became convinced he had survived an encounter with the god Eder and started worshipping to propitiate him. Ald was taken off the island a few months later by traders from Karveth. He was questioned by the local Save K'nor temple about his shipwreck and was allowed to consult the temple's texts on Eder and Ridow. This confirmed him in his belief. A ship then took him to Cherafir, where he was contacted by men who told him they could bring him back to Golotha, but that he would have to stand ready one day to serve the designs of the Great God Eder. Terrified, Ald aquiesced.

Some years later, men showed up at the Seaman's Guild. Upon seeing their medallions with Chymak-style octopus carving, Ald knew instantly who they were. They have brought him to meet the Grandmaster once, where he performed a ceremony by laying his hands on a cold surface. Now the Grandmaster calls him in his dreams with instructions, and Ald sometimes hosts men at the guild. The password is "Great Kualturlu". He has once seen the Grandmaster in the street and learned that his name was Zako of Varian. He has pledged to obey him unquestioningly. (E1, Golotha 25)

Golotha/Peran trade - Daquer of Iyesin. "Scarlet Dak" is Golotha most successful Peran trader. Many know Dak's mother was Kuboran but few know that his abusive father was a Rethemi cooper who was killed in 695 when the Kandayan troops took Selvos. Daquer and his mother were taken in by a Melderyni mercenary, who over the years developed a strong bond with the boy. His name was Erbold of Iyesin. After Ezar's war was finished, Erbold took them back to his mother's tribe, the Tiraen. He stayed with them a few years, but finally left for his homeland, coming back from time to time to see them when work took him to Tormau.

In 706, during one of his visits, Erbold offered to Daquer to take him back to Cherafir. Dak accepted and spent the next few years visiting Melderyn and apprenticing with his stepfather, who had become a mercantyler. He was impressed by the conditions in the kingdom and became adept at trading. In 709, he felt going back west and Erbold gave him enough money to start his venture in Golotha.

Six years later, he met Zako of Varian, then newly established in the city. Zako brought him letters from his stepfather and the two men became friends. Quickly, Daquer learned that Zako was not who he pretended to be, but was in fact a Melderyni mage with a mission. Very impressed by his powers, Scarlet Dak agreed to work with him. He is now Vensit's eyes and ears during his Peran trips, and also profits from the furs Zako purchases from him to adorn his choicest clothing pieces. (F14, Golotha 31)

Quiso - Daneel of Kinte. A bard in the employ of Baron Bothal Yonan. An excellent artist, he has a lecherous streak that caters to the baron's perverse tastes. He also writes plays for Yonan's decadent court. Although on permanent retainer, he sometimes leaves Quiso - with the Baron's permission - to regenerate his "creative juices".

Themeson - Arfain of Zhyss. Arfain is the timberwright master and does good business with Crasel of Merbed, the Akarata of the Cohorts of Gashang. The Cohorts guard the extensive lands owned in the region by their parent order, the Eight Demons, and are engaged in shoring up the orderial manors in the area as well as maintaining the Keep. Arfain has a logging operation in the forest north of Senun and floats the trunks until Themeson. He has a depot in Senun where he ages most of his wood.

Thiri - Wuereck of Ermansil. A riverine trader, Wuereck is based in Thiri and operates two talbars, with a crew of five men (they are unaware of his part in the network). He ferries goods from Golotha to Geshtei and back. A supplier in Golotha is Zako of Varian, whose wares he sells on the markets of Thiri, Phira, Techen and Geshtei. In the latter town he often deals with Meryl of Tokess, the local clothier (not part of the network) who specializes in fine wool and silk clothes embroidered with silver and gold thread. He also likes to have a drink at the Raftsman's Inn (Geshtei 3), and learn the latest Thardan news.

Starting next month, on the night of the Yaelah, Wuereck has been instructed to pick up a chest of silver delivered by Kandayans on the north side of the river from Rylosin (west of Zerien, in Kanday). During those forays he will not be accompanied by his normal crew, but by three men of the Low Guard. He is to deliver the silver to Vensit the day after, hidden in a shipment of cloth.

Zaza - Robeyn of Lauksly. He became Baron Styfen Paque's huntsman after the previous one never returned from one of his forays three years ago. He is sometimes seen at the Vulgar Stallion Inn in Ithiko, where he likes to toss a few drinks while supposedly out hunting for the baron's table. Some say he is the lover of the apothecary Susyne of Larade (Ithiko 3 - not part of the network).

Well, if it makes you feel better, the Morgathians had absolutely no spies in the Tormau camp. Including the one who got caught. No idea whose he was, but he wasn't mine.

2. I want a very public execution of some accomplice of Rabbal of Uross. If Vavryse can’t find a real one, he should find some other suitable candidate (somebody not liked in his community). Vavryse should make it clear that this accomplice is known by all to be Morgathian who schemed with Rabbal to spy in Hohnam and assassinate me and sheriff of Winen on behalf of the Usurper. The event should be memorable enough so that news of it would eventually reach all corners of the kingdom. Make sure Sheriff of Winen is present for the execution and is convinced that there indeed were Morgathian spies and assassins plotting against us and him.

So my closest advisor and spymaster was playing for the other team as well? That's why I got no useful reports from my spies...

if you got baptized as a Laranian (which Henwe did quietly towards the end of the game),

Vensit of Kelede's orders:

1 - In the last 5 years, Zako of Varian has been a regular (and generous) customer of the House of Five Pleasures (Golotha 14 - B8), Golotha's only House of Courtesans. As far as he knows, Zako has established a good rapport with Wyrene of Charo, the owner. Of late, master Varian has been more and more relaxed in her presence, and he has finally confided in her the need to draw near the "Empress of Opulence" (i.e. Halea). However, in the current climate, he is hesitant to simply cross the temple's threshold. Would mistress Wyrene know of a more discreet way? (OOC: the House of Courtesans is contiguous to the Temple of Halea).

2 - Since he is in Golotha, Zako of Varian has also been a visitor to the archive section of the Temple of Save K'nor. At first restricted to the common records, he now has access to more private documents (regular tithing and a letter of introduction from the Shea-Al-Aecor helped greatly) and a good relationship with the Ibarti. Of late, master Varian has expressed the need for reseach that would require more field work. Does the esteemed Ibarti know of Sir Adelrin Lanegrun, a master of the Chantry of Arcane Lore? (Golotha 41 - I2). Is master Lanegrun of fitting character and can he be trusted to do a good job? Concurrently, Vensit has been searching in the archives for an eventual trace of Fylath and Danal Eskawne, or the Norgalens - disappeared descendants of Arlun (see Kuboran dynasty/Rethem 5). Has any clue been uncovered?

3 - Master Varian likes to attend the House of Bagnax from time to time (Golotha 39 - H9). He is fond of the representations held by the thespian troupe there. Zako has already made several financial contributions to the troupe's fund, to show his appreciation of their work. The Clothier thinks he has achieved a bond with Corto and his sister Beneala, especially since he once had Beneala divinate for him, and she made contact with a powerful spirit (in fact Vensit's own workings...). Beneala seemed more shaken than Zako after this session, but the ghost recommended to Varian he continue his patronage of the arts. Zako has already discussed with Corto about creating new plays, but no definite theme has been found yet. The clothier also likes to talk about the troupe's experiences when touring southern Rethem.

(OOC: let me know if I have to devote a GRP to represent the various financing that have been done above)

4 - Ask Wuereck of Ermansil (based in Thiri) to scout for a safe house in Techen, in case the Golotha headquarters have to be evacuated.

5 - Ask Scarlet Dak if he has already worked with the Dead Men mercenary company (Golotha 38 - H5). What is their performance and does he think they have connections with the Morgathians?

6 - A long-term plan would be a rapprochement with the Aerth clan, a powerful family in Golotha. Does Vensit know if Arvind of Aerth (Golotha 34 - F41) has a daughter of marriageable age?

7 - Master Varian inquires with Rylend of Laben (Golotha 31 - F12) and Fyedur of Skuldrov (Golotha 38 - H4) if they would be interested to set up a gladiatorial school and team with him. Fyedur would provide the training and the premises. Rylend would provide the combat slaves, though freemen could also apply. Zako would provide the cash flow but remain a discreet partner. All would have a 1/3rd share in the venture. Zako thinks that if the business could be set up before the Slaughterfest (held next Ilvin, in 720), then the returns could be very good. What do they think?

OOC - the aim here is manyfold: enter in a business venture with a member of the Aerth family (Rylend's wife is the sister of Parqu of Aerth, the Mangai representative on the Heptarchial Council); create a force that could act as 1 SP in case of emergency (yet could be more or less sustaining business-wise); and give opportunities to sollicit Agrikan Fighting-Orders as sponsors (political, not financial). I'm thinking it could open interesting possibilities with underrated orders in Golotha, such as the Pillar of Fire/CoG or the Fuming Gate/Copper Hook.

8 - Ald of Ernaldin is to keep 7 bunks in the hostel for the incoming crew. He will also purchase (with funds given by Vensit through an agent - let me know how much) a large talbar (about the size of the brothel boat [g] in the Northaven underworld, Golotha 27)). This talbar should be large enough to house the remaining incoming 7 Low Guards, and to evacuate the whole company in an emergency. Ald will arrange a berth for the boat, at the deepest part of the underworld (south of [g]), near where the escape tunnel of Zako's house should exit.

9 - A letter to Merele of Kantar, Viriahna of the temple headquarters of the Order of 8 Demons, in Shiran. It is borne by an agent until Shiran, near the temple, where he will give a coin to a street urchin to bring him to the temple gate guards. Once he has seen the guards take the message (from a safe distance), he should melt in the crowd and come back at once to Golotha.

The message reads:

"Esteemed Grandmistress,

For too long, the Eight Demons and the Cohorts of Gashang have not had their rightful place in the Kingdom of Rethem. Yet the Cohorts have proven their worth by wresting Themeson from the feeble Red Shadows. However, this very victory could prove a liability to the order. Through impious bargaining between King and Senate, the Order could be despoiled of its rightful gain.

But there is a way to an even more glorious victory. Themeson can be a stepping stone for true recognition in Rethem. In Golotha, there is an Heptarchial seat that is not filled. The degenerate whores of Halea tremble with fear and have abdicated. This seat must be filled by a worthy Agrikan, and not by those who tady to the Chaos. Offer Themeson to Chafin and ask for that seat in return. Hence the 8 demons will yield real power in Golotha and avoid being cheated of their harvest.

Signed: True Followers of the Emperor of Flame

P.S: this message is but a gift to you and needs no reply. However, if you wish to speak with us in the future, fly a red V'hir banner from your temple in Golotha on the last day of each month. We will contact you."


10 - A letter to Debryne of Tilry, Aramia of the Silken Voice and Salara of Hârn (Primate of Halea). It is borne by an agent (not the same one as above), until Shiran, near the temple, where he will give a coin to a street urchin to bring him to the Solithars. Once he has seen the guards take the message (from a safe distance), he should melt in the crowd and come back at once to Golotha.

"Revered Salara,

It has come to our knowledge that the Halean seat of the Heptarchial Council in Golotha is under threat. Rumours abound of negotiations between Agrikans, Morgathians and the king or Rethem to fill in the vacant place. A persistent one is that Chafin III would attribute it to the Order of the 8 Demons in exchange for Themeson.

We understand how dangerous this position is for the daughters of Halea, yet we despair at having one of the last parcel of power in Golotha fall yet again in the hands of opponents of pleasure and prosperity. Isn't there a way to prevent this?

If the seat is reassigned, we fear the next step will be the closure of the temple here. How are we to thrive if we are banned from the worship of our Goddess?

We wish to help the best we can, but the unfortunate circumstances here force us to remain anonymous for the moment. If you feel it is worth to send a representative again and wish to discuss with us about our assistance, we beg you to fly the golden stocking of the Goddess on the temple of the Silken Voice in Golotha on the last day of the month, and we will contact you.

Signed: Concerned Haleans in Golotha"

OOC: a write-up on both the above VIPs can be found in Shiran 7.


11 - OOC: my strategy will probably fluctuate heavily throughout the game since I can have any real actions only through influencing others. Therefore, knowing what they do (insofar as my network is able to find it out) is doubly crucial. If possible, could you begin my status situation on every month by a small report from each of my agents? (if they have something to say)

1. Wyrene of Charo of the House of Five Pleasures indicates that attendance at the House of Five Pleasures is tantamount to visiting the temple itself. However, should you wish for the more learned counsel of the priestesses, she would be glad to convey any messages.


2. The Ibarti of Save K'nor allows that he is acquainted with Sir Adelrin Lanegrun. Sir Adelrin is a fine scholar, and should absolutely be consulted about anything related to the Corani Empire. Nothing is found concerning the fates of any of Arlun's 'lost' descendants.


3. The House of Bagnax is most appreciative of your patronage, and would consider any themes that interested you.


4. The above activities have consumed 1 GRP over the past months. Financing a play would likely consume 1 GRP.


5. A safe house has been identified in Techen. Purchase will require 1 GRP.


6. Arvind of Aerth has no daughter of marriagable age.


7. Your inquiry is rebuffed by Rylen of Laleld. Fyedur will train anyone you care to pay for, but has no interest in speculation.


8. Chafin III has arrived at Caer Chaftar by sea along with the King's Guard.

8a. A crier outside Caer Chafter has been proclaiming daily.

"Hear Ye, Hear Ye.

His Majesty Chafin III, wishes it to be known that he is in residence at Caer Chaftar and will be in attendance for the spring months of Nuzyael, Peonu, and Kelen. During this time, he will be taking audience with his vassals and foreign magnates to discuss the future of the realm of Rethem. Let it be known that any direct vassal not returning notice of communication or attending the King personally by the 30th of Kelen will be declared traitor and his lands be forfeit."

8b. The Sheriff of Zabin, Constable of Norienar and Baron of Bekar attend Chafin III in Caer Chaftar.

8c. An ambassador from the Thardic Senate has met with Chafin III. It is said he has made the usual demand for the return of Themeson.


9. Daneel of Kinte in Quiso reports that the baron seeks to ransom his daughter and grandchildren from the Earl of Ithiko.


10. Scarlet Dak reports Ryler the Southron seeks to unite the tribes and make war upon all of western Harn. He has gained a fair amount of support with the various tribes. He has worked with the Dead Men in the past, but will not again. They wear the aura of death about them.


11. Hoardal of Keleto reports that the Copper Hook have prepared a small baggage train.


12. It is reported that the Baron of Henwe has hired a company of mercenaries (1 SP) in Golotha.


13. It is reported that the Order of the Copper Hook has hired two companies of mercenaries (2 SP) in Golotha.


14. Your men (1 SP) and cash (7 GRP) have arrived from Cherafir. A ship and appropriate bribes costs 2 GRP.


15. Prince Anaflas reports that negotiations with the Earl of Tormau (just like Dead of Winter, only without the complications and the Nolah) are difficult. The Earl of Tormau seeks military aid, but Andasin IV is unlikely to support any military action. Financial aid may be possible, but difficult. He suggests the best immediate action might be to get Saval and Hesela Lynneaus out of Rethem.


16. Nykkal reports that he is in Weseda with the Earl of Tormau. Sir Berel reports that negotiations went as well as could be expected. Kanday will continue to pressure both Hyen and Chafin III to the extent they can, though military action beyond Hyen is unlikely. Financial aid may be forthcoming in the future.


Status:
1 SP Regulars in Golotha
4 GRP in Golotha

You think Rylen's refusal to deal had to do with his unwillingness to deal with a stranger.

Parqu has no daughter of marriagable age. Kyrmit has a widowed daughter with a one year old girl. Klarina of Queldstar is widowed and 47 it is rumored she poisoned her first husband for his franchise.

The Baron of Henwe has hired Thorfinn's Marines.

The Copper Hook has hired Falner's Firemen, noted for their Agrikan leanings and willingness to put a village to the torch.

Your understanding of your financial situation is essentially correct. Only about a third of a GRP went to bribes, the rest paid for the ship. About a half a dozen bribes were paid to the pilot, the bonding house, the Lia Kavair, etc. The ship can be as you specified.

No flags have flown above any temples. I will be sure to let you know if they do.

Arfain of Zhyss has nothing of interest to report.

The ambassador from the Thardic Senate is indeed still in Golotha.

Scarlet Dak reports that Ryler is charismatic, but faces some opposition. It is unlikely the whole of Kubora will move this year, but perhaps a quarter could.

The information you have just received is for Nuzyael 1, 720. Your orders will be for actions you wish to take during Nuzyael. The next set of orders is due January 24.

A few more points I'd like to check/accomplish before I send my Nuzyael orders:

Since the Thardic ambassador is in town, send a few agents out to follow him around and check his schedule: where does he live, where does he go, and if there is one place in particular where he would be more vulnerable. They are to follow him from afar, take no risk and make sure they are not detected.

Have one member of the team that is quartered on the Skarth in the Northhaven underworld throw a message discreetly in the Golden Swan (Goltha 27, [b]). This should be done when Ja-an-Aral is out, and the agent is either coming in or going out of the underworld, so as not to arouse undue interest. The message is written on a parchment tied around a stone. It reads:

"We have heard that you sometimes offer your services to solve difficult problems. A certain foreign dignitary currently in town could be one of our problems. We wish to know if you are willing to solve it for us. If it is the case, tie a red cloth to the bow of your boat and we will contact you".

Ask Robeyn if the sons of Geyal Barzak (who are fostered with the Baron Paque) are sometimes allowed outside Zaza's keep (even if accompanied), or are always kept inside.

Ask Scarlet Dak if he thinks the Utcin Kubora could be persuaded to mount a quick raid in Zaza's surroundings (not on the town itself) against payment. The aim would be to kidnap two boys and deliver them to a boat who would be waiting on the shore of the Hohnam marshes.

Inform Anaflas that the Copper Hook has recruited 2 companies of mercenaries reputed for their Agrikan leanings and assembled a small baggage train. They could be preparing for a strike in Kanday. It is also possible that they act in Rethem itself, for example Henwe (and hence Tormau) who has also recruited a company of mercs. If the latter, it would mean that the CH could be aligned with Chafin.

Through discussions with Nykkal and Anaflas, try to ascertain what it would take for Andasin to support Tormau financially and what are the blocking points in the negotiations. Does Nykkal know if Tormau would be willing to send Saval and Hesela outside Rethem? If Kanday is not acceptable to him, would another destination be considered?

Chafin III speaks...

Zako of Varian listens respectfully to the King's speech without making any comments. If questioned afterwards by his peers, he states that he is cautiously optimistic about the King's words.

A red cloth is tied to the bow of the Golden Swan.

A skiff approaches the Golden Swan while its owner is home. Three black-robed and cowled men are onboard, with a red cloth tied to the prow. The two men manning the oars stay in the skiff while the third one - who appears to be the leader climbs aboard. During this manoeuver, the neck of the robe flies brieffly open, revealing a medallion upon which the Durangash gleams dully in the torchlight The man quickly closes his robe with his free hand. He adresses Ja-an-Aral in Hârnic, but with a faint Lythian accent - maybe Azeryani:

"We wish you to kill the Thardic ambassador in Golotha.It must be done soon - during Nuzyael, and before he goes back to his country. The payment will be half before, and half after the deed is done. Name your price"

OOC: The price Vensit would like to put in such an action is 1 GRP but the agent has authority to negotiate up to 2 GRPs. He has 1 GRP in silver on him, in two bags of 1/2 GRP each. He will give 50% to Ja-an-Aral now if a deal is struck.The agent is armed only with a poniard. The two men in the skiff are armed and armoured under the black capes. A team of ten men is armed and ready on the skarth, which has benn untied and ready to pole out to the aid of the 3 agents if something goes wrong. Agents are under orders not to be taken alive.

Scarlet Dak says the Utcin are independent and will not do anything at the behest of any outsider.

Have Nykkal tell the Earl of Tormau that he has been contacted by someone who can tell them when the two sons of Geyal Barzak venture out of Zaza keep. The man claims to be from the baron Paque's household and asks 1 GRP for this "service". He suggests the earl uses some of his Kuboran mercenaries and disguises them as Utcin or Suyari tribesmen. They would "raid" Zaza's surroundings when signalled and kidnap the two boys.

Aboard the Golden Swan, Ja-an-Aral speaks...

"Surely, an assassin doesn't need to know - nor ask - by whom or why he is hired. Do you take the task, or not?"

OOC: By now, the agent is VERY suspicious. If there is any other answer than "yes" (and within the budgeted prices), he retires to the skiff without another word and the three men disappear into the gloom.

Nykkal says he will tell the Earl upon their return to Tormau, for it would seem odd for him to get information from Zaza in Weseda.

OK

Have Nykkal tell the Earl of Tormau that he has been contacted by someone who can tell them when the two sons of Geyal Barzak venture out of Zaza keep. The man claims to be from the baron Paque's household and asks 1 GRP for this "service". He suggests the earl uses some of his Kuboran mercenaries and disguises them as Utcin or Suyari tribesmen. They would "raid" Zaza's surroundings when signalled and kidnap the two boys.

Heh, so while Copper Hook thought Henwe was loyal to him and I thought he was loyal to me, he was playing his own little game with Selvos all along. Nice. And I thought his new road to Selvos plan was proposed to please me and offered as proof of his loyalty...

Seeing other people's orders I realize I should've poked my spies a lot more. On the other hand I was bleeding resources so fast that I hardly could've spend more.

I spent quite a bit on the palisade and a new well in Tormau. Would those have helped me in game terms if Tormau was besieged (as I see Chafin was planning to do)?

Also I tried to take some long term view into account with the fair and tournament - as it turned out the timing wasn't too good for it, but how were you planning to handle those?

BTW Nichola, thanks for the good job done as a GM. I might've been frustrated at times, but the game was thoroughly enjoyable nevertheless!