Empire - User contributions [en]

Zeno's Rest

2018-05-07T17:08:05Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Category: Music Category: Urizen Category: Urizen Music Words and melody by Claire Sheridan. A recording of the song can be found [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyo..."

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]
Words and melody by Claire Sheridan. A recording of the song can be found [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/zenos-rest here].

Composed by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach following events in Autumn 381YE.

<song>

There is a place where hope will never die,
The Onyx Path for us is open wide,
Whatever we embrace,
However dark our fate,
At Zeno’s Rest all stand and stand with Pride.

Through the mud and through the mist the heroes came,
Knowing they might never leave again,
All was dark and mire,
But in us there was fire,
To reach that place and hold it just the same.

chorus

They fought with magic and with shield and sword,
They fought with guile those pirates from abroad.
With sharks they’ve made a pact,
Sharp-toothéd Spring attacked,
And countless they lay bleeding on the floor.

chorus

Six heroes of the Empire gave their lives,
For refugees and armies to survive,
All bloody, broke and torn,
What’s left for those who mourn?
At Zeno’s Rest all stand and stand with Pride.

chorus

</song>

Imperial history

2017-08-19T12:27:31Z

ClaireS: /* (22 YE - 34 YE) Reign of Emperor Giovanni the Peacemaker */

==Overview==
Imperial historians date from the foundation of the Empire. Events that happened after the Empire is created are recorded as '''YE''' for "Year of the Empire" and '''BE''' for "Before the Empire." Most nations had their own calendars before the foundation of the Empire so historical documents that predate the Empire use different systems. A very few Highguard historians stubbornly cling to the numbering '''SL''' for "Since Landfall" dating from the point at which they first set foot on these shores, but this is a largely discredited system.

==Before History==
Between the creation of the world, and the first records of human civilization, an unknown period passes. Some historians speak in terms of eons, others in terms of millennia. Most agree that there was a time before the existence of humans and orcs, when the world may have been dominated by other species - perhaps the dragons whose bones are such a [[Materials#Dragonbone|valuable material]]. This period, and the period that follows it, are sometimes called the Dark Ages - before the illumination of history.

==Ancient==
This period begins with the earliest recorded human habitation of the Bay of Catazaar. it starts perhaps as long as two thousand years before the founding of the Empire. The ruins of the first orc and human settlements date from this period. There is some argument among Imperial scholars as to who was here "first" - the orcs or the humans. Very little is known for sure about the Ancient period, meaning that along with the time Before History it is sometimes called the Dark Ages.

According to historians among the [[Navarr]], [[Urizen]] and [[Wintermark|Winterfolk]], the orcs occupied land that had once belonged to early human kingdoms. What is known is that there were some powerful human kingdoms at this time, but that they were ultimately defeated and overthrown by the orcs.

At some point during this period, the forbears of the Suaq, Kallavesi, Ushka, Urizen, Teruael, and Feni settled around the Bay and began to build their cultures. There are ruins in many other places around the world that date from this period; the Asaveans claim that the city of [[Asavean_Archipelago_ports#Nemoria|Nemoria]] was founded during this period, making it the oldest city in the world.

==Terunael==
At it's height, the Terunael empire may have lasted for between a hundred and three hundred years. During this period, the orcs were slowly driven out of the heartlands of what is today the Empire. The Terunael traded and warred with other human cultures - Imperial scholars believe that the the Suaq, the Kallavesi, the Ushka, the Feni, and the Urizen, or their forebears, were all present in some form or another during this time along with several cultures that no longer exist about whom we have only fragmentary records - such as the Gwerin Morfae.

Terunael culture was centred around their cities. The heart of their Empire, the city of Terunael, stood in [[Brocéliande]] while other cities existed in [[Miaren]], [[Hercynia]], [[Liathaven]], and [[Therunin]]. Some historians believe there were between two and five other cities, located outside the area that the Empire now controls. Exact information about this period is fragmentary, but it is generally believed that the rulers of Terunael were its magicians.

This period ends with the catastrophic Fall, and the creation of the [[Vallorn]].

==Chaos==
After the fall of Terunael, the lands of the Bay of Catazaar descended into chaos. Following the calamity, the barbarian [[orc|orcs]], who had largely been pushed out of the central lands, swept back in. A great many humans were enslaved, or killed, and their continued invasions sped the collapse of whatever infrastructure had survived the Bane of Terunael. Those human cultures who survived were isolated or lived in places the orcs were not interested in - the Suaq and Kallavesa in the north-west, the Ushka in the north-east, and the Urizen in the south-east.

Some historians believe that it was during the latter part of this period that the Vard and the Steinr fell from the heavens, and encountered (respectively) the people who would later form Wintermark and Varushka. Regardless, the Chaos is generally considered to end with the arrival of the Highborn.

Imperial histories tend to place the founding of [[Asavean_Archipelago_ports#Nemoria|Nemoria]] and the city that would become the [[Sarcophan Delves]] during this period, despite the claims of foreign scholars to the contrary.

==Pre-Imperial==
Three waves of colonization brought people that founded new human nations. The [[Highguard|Highborn]] are generally held to be the first, landing in the south, the forebears of [[Dawn]] and [[The Marches]] settled in the east. Some scholars suggest that the [[Steinr]] and Vard appeared in the north during this period, after the foundation of Highguard, but there is no true consensus one way or another.

When the first waves of human colonization began, most of the initial inhabitants were in retreat - the Navarr to their forests, the Urizen to their mountains, the [[Suaq]] and the [[Kallavesi]] to the inhospitable north, the [[Varushka History|Ushka]] huddled around their camp fires, and the [[Feni]] lurking in their wilderness. There were also humans living among the orcs, largely as chattel, slaves or subjects. Where these humans were freed from orc oppression, they were usually assimilated by the conquerors leaving no records of their own culture.

These nations grew in size and power through constant warfare with their neighbours, particularly the barbarian orcs who claimed the land as their own. While the nations were successful, life was hard and brutal for the initial settlers and historians believe that it was only a matter of time before these new human nations would have been overrun and subjugated, like their predecessors.

==Foundation==
===Year Zero===
With an eye to the conflict between the human nations and the risks posed by the orcs, the First Empress began her crusade in Highguard. She gathered around a small group of like-minded individuals from various nations and with their assistance, and with the aid of the Navarr, she brought together the leaders of humanity to discuss the barbarian threat. Her vision and charisma - and the hard work of her allies - convinced many of them to recognise the value of an Empire. The people of [[Urizen]] declined to join, but sufficient folk from [[The Brass Coast]], [[Dawn]], [[Highguard]], [[The League]], [[The Marches]], [[Navarr]], [[Varushka]] and [[Wintermark]] accepted the proposal to allow them to form the Empire.

====(1 YE - 5 YE) Internal conflict====
In the early years the Empire concentrated on consolidating its position. The creation of the Empire led to a brief but bloody civil war in the Marches and the first of many battles with the orcs. During this time the first [[Nationality#Egregore|egregores]] were created through a ritual created by the [[hakima]] of [[The Brass Coast]] to ensure that the various nations are able to maintain their distinct cultural identity.

The most significant conflict was in Varushka where the Imperial forces engaged those of the corrupt boyar [[Alderei the Fair]] who threatened to conquer Varushka and create his own corrupt Empire. With the magical aid of the [[Volodny]] magicians, his armies proved to be a match for the Imperial forces. The efforts of powerful magicians ultimately neutralised the Volodny and the tyrant boyar was defeated by the Marcher general Tom Drake, although his body was never recovered.

====(6 YE) The Senate, The Synod and the Military Council====
The Empress and her advisors laid the groundwork for Imperial structures to support and empower the Empire. Building on traditions of government in Wintermark, the [[Imperial Senate|Senate]] was created to advise the Empress and give the nations a voice in the rule of the Empire. Following a plan developed in the Marches, the [[Imperial Military Council|Military Council]] of generals was set up to coordinate the military forces of the various nations. The [[Imperial Synod|Synod]] was formed by the priests of Highguard, allowing the Imperial Faith to serve as a unifying force with a remit to ensure that the leaders of the Empire did not become corrupt.

====(22 YE) Death of the First Empress ====
The First Empress led her troops from the front, rallying and inspiring them in their campaigns against their enemies. She died on campaign in battle against an orc barbarian tribe on the Brass Coast who were subsequently wiped out. She was interred in the [[Necropolis]] at Highguard, creating the tradition for many dead Emperors and Empresses that followed.

The last known [[Horses|horse]], the mount of the First Empress, died at this time. Highguard tales described the pair's final battle, but Urizen records of army logistics from this period suggest that the horse died before the Empress. Although the first Empress is always shown on a horse, there were no more horses after this time.

===(22 YE - 34 YE) Reign of Emperor Giovanni the Peacemaker===
After the death of the First Empress, [[Emperor Giovanni]] of [[Tassato]] was chosen by the Senate to replace her. An advisor to the late Empress, Giovanni was a statesman and politician rather than a military leader like his predecessor. He set about ensuring the Empire had the infrastructure required to help it prosper. His first act was to initiate a tradition of meeting once every three months at the site of the first meeting where the Empire was formed. A Senate building was built on the site, and it was declared Imperial Territory.

Giovanni approached the people of [[Urizen]] with an invitation to join the Empire, and this time they accepted. In return they offered their expertise as scholars and mages. Urizen scholarship slowly helped to raise levels of education and literacy across the Empire. Harnessing the power of Urizen divination with the expertise of the civil service helped Giovanni to transform the Imperial Civil Service into its current form.

The Urizen worked with the Empire to create the [[Imperial Conclave]], inspired by experiences during the war with Alderei the Fair in Varushka. The divided magicians of the Empire, each jealously guarding their own secrets, were barely able to neutralise the much smaller force of the Volodya, and the Senate was keen to ensure that this does not happen again.

Giovanni also laid the foundations of the [[Imperial Bourse]], and worked with the Senate and Synod to codify the body of Imperial Law. During his reign he established a single [[currency]] based on steel coins issued by the Imperial Mint, based in Tassato under the ultimate control of the Civil Service. Giovanni died in 34 YE but his legacy was at least as durable as that of his predecessor. His relentless commitment to civilisation earned Giovanni the epithet "Peacemaker".

====(27 YE) Reclamation of Miaren====
After fifteen years or so of active preparation, the [[Navarr]] destroyed the vallorn of [[Miaren]] with a combination of military might and [[Wither the Seed|potent rituals]]. The city of Seren was recovered and became a center for investigation of both vallorn and the history of Terunael for the next hundred years.

==Consolidation==
===(36 YE - 69 YE) Reign of Empress Richilde, the Sun Queen===
Following the reign of Emperor Giovanni, there is a brief period during which the Throne is unoccupied. The next Empress is [[Empress Richilde]] of [[Dawn]]. Senator for [[Astolat]], this accomplished Dawnish noble parlayed her cleverness and charisma into political influence. She instituted the Imperial bards, served as a patroness of the arts, accompanied the Imperial armies on campaign as an inspirational symbol of the Throne, and worked extensively to encourage both national and Imperial pride. After her death, she was recognised as an [[paragons and exemplars|exemplar]] and later a paragon of [[Pride]].

====(46 YE) Karsk captured====
Imperial armies from Wintermark and Dawn supported the Varushkan force's conquest of [[Karsk]]. The war was long and did not produce tales of heroism or glory.

====(52 YE) Semmerholm defeated====
An unusual alliance between Marcher and Dawnish forces caused the destruction of a major orc tribe in the territory now known as
[[Semmerholm]].

====(54 YE) Scouring of Redoubt====
A combined Imperial force assisted the seers of Urizen in systematically removing the majority of orc occupants from the territory of [[Redoubt]]. Urizen control of the territory expanded allowing it to be represented in the Senate.

====(56 YE) Reikos gained====
Highborn forces finally succeeded in conquering the [[Reikos]] on the borders of the Great Forest of Peytaht. The territory was accepted as part of the Empire although it took over a year to return the first senator for the territory.

===71 YE - 91 YE Reign of Empress Teleri the Pious===
This [[Navarr]] [[Empress Teleri|Empress]] was deeply involved in the business of the Synod, and it was during her reign that they first began to exert the political powers they possessed. During her reign, the Synod gained increasing influence over all other parts of Imperial life, especially the Imperial Senate.

====(74 YE) Westward expansion====
A campaign to secure the western flank of the Empire took the Mourn from orcs and secured Mitwold to the sea, giving the Empire a western coastline.

====(88 YE) Invasion of Kahraman====
Freeborn and Marcher armies concluded a successful pincer invasion of the mountainous territory of [[Kahraman]]. The occupants were split in two by the invasion and forced out of the territory in the following years.

==Expansion==
===92 YE - 102 YE The First Interregnum===
Following the reign of Empress Teleri there is a period known as the ''First Interregnum'' during which there was nobody seated on the Throne. This period is marked by close co-operation between the Conclave, Bourse, Senate and Military Council with the Imperial Synod serving a vital role as supporters and intermediaries. As the interregnum progresses, however, there is increasing dissatisfaction with the dominance of the Synod.

===103 YE - 120 YE Reign of Empress Aenea the Builder===
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] [[Empress Aenea]] spent most of her reign improving the infrastructure of the Empire. Several border wars occurred during Aenea's time on the throne, and at various points the Empire was at war with [[Faraden]], the [[Iron Confederacy]], [[Axos]], [[Skoura]] and even (technically) the [[Sumaah Republic]].

===125 YE to 167 YE Reign of Empress Varkula, called 'The Undying'===
Taking advantage of a weakened and divided senate the ruthless [[Varushka|Varushkan]] [[Empress Varkula]] manipulated (and in some cases, allegedly extorted) her way to the throne. She then set about dramatically increasing the military strength of the Empire. Her reign saw the Empire's borders expand, and also saw a reduction in the powers of the Synod that had expanded in the reigns of more pious Emperors and Empresses.

====(125 YE) Assimilation of Zenith====
The seers of Urizen completed the assimilation of [[Zenith]] after a lengthy campaign involving Highborn and League forces and a long sequence of powerful rituals.

====(136 YE) Fall of Holberg====
Imperial armies from Dawn conquered the territory of [[Holberg]]. The city of Holberg was convinced to join the Empire by League diplomats, leading to a political coup in the Senate that resulted in the territory being assigned to the League.

====(154 YE) Skarsind pacified====
Although it proved impossible to drive the barbarian orcs from [[Skarsind]], enough of the territory was conquered and fortified for it to be declared an Imperial territory.

====(167 YE) Domination of Miekarova====
Steady expansion by the Varushkan boyars over the preceding century led to the inclusion of [[Miekarova]] within the Empire.

===168 YE to 179 YE Reign of Emperor Frederick, called 'The Philosopher'===
[[Emperor Frederick|Frederick Ritter van Holberg]] reigned for eleven years, over a time of relative peace during which the Empire consolidated the gains secured in the reign of Empress Varkula. He was a philosopher and political scholar who fiercely protected the rights of the individual over those of the state, and encouraged citizens of all nations to view the prosperity and security of the Empire as both their responsibility and something in which to take great pride.

===(180 to 198 YE) Reign of Emperor Barabbas===
The [[Highguard|Highborn]] [[Emperor Barabbas]] was driven by the desire to expand the Empire to control the entire Bay of Catazar. He was only marginally successful, managing primarily to alienate the people of [[Iron Confederacy|Surann]] and [[Skoura]] and ultimately seeing his ''Barabbine fleet'' sink in a terrible storm that would have left the Imperial Navy crippled if not for the foresight of his [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] allies.

====(183) Expansion into Segura====
A united front by the Hakima of the Guerra and Riqueza led to the Brass Coast expansion into [[Segura]].

==Turmoil==
This period sees the reign of Emperor Nicovar, and his catastrophic effect on the history of the Empire. It was characterized by a sequence of military defeats as earlier conquests were lost to resurgent barbarian forces beginning with Segura in the Brass Coast in 204 and ending with the war in Karsk in 259. Most of the defeats were eventually reversed, with the borders moving back and forth. By the end of the years of turmoil, the Empire actually controled slightly more land than at the beginning, but the period is still regarded as a low point in Imperial history.

===(200 YE - 209 YE) Reign of Emperor Nicovar "the Mad"===
The first reversals in the Empire's fortune occurred during the reign of [[Emperor Nicovar]]. Initially a brilliant administrator, Nicovar expanded the role of the civil service in support of the Empire. However, a decade of attempting to micromanage every element of the Empire, as well as a reliance on the magic of Day to gather and interpret ever greater amounts of information, eventually caused him to descend into madness.

The [[draughir]] Emperor became increasingly unstable, perceiving patterns in events that appeared paranoid to others. His unpopular policies divided the [[Imperial Senate|Senate]] and the [[Imperial Synod|Synod]], and there were rumbles of civil war. He began to demand extreme amounts of record keeping and it became clear that he was not in his right mind.

Things came to a head in 209 when Emperor Nicovar sent his troops to burn down the Empire's libraries. There was a revolt, which culminated in the destruction of the central repository of records in Highguard and several key spires in Urizen. The mad emperor was executed by the captain of his own guard, the [[Navarr]] [[Thorn]] Isaella. Despite appeals for clemency from the Synod, Isaella took full responsibility, and was convicted as a traitor, while simultaneously being lauded as an exemplar of courage and duty and a hero of the Empire.

The destruction of the libraries left a big hole in the history of the Empire - thousands of books and scrolls are lost. While records still existed, there were many gaps and those that remained were fragmentary. Since then scholars have attempted to recreate the books and records they had lost, but with mixed success.

===(212 YE - 234 YE) Reign of Empress Mariika===
After three years without an Emperor or Empress, the [[Suaq]] [[Empress Mariika]] ascended the Throne. The Empire was on the verge of financial collapse, and Mariika's reign is remembered for her ruthless and efficient reorganisation of the Imperial Economy. She disbanded two entire armies, slashed funding to the Military Council, gave the Bourse control of a number of raw material surpluses, recognised several informal positions as Imperial offices, and generally took steps to ensure the Empire avoided economic disaster.

===(239 YE - 248 YE) Reign of Emperor Guntherm===
The [[Steinr]] [[Emperor Guntherm]] ascended the Throne after a series of successful campaigns against the [[Jotun]] barbarians. He was committed to expanding the reach of the Empire, and chafed under the economic restrictions placed by his predecessor. The early part of his reign is committed to strengthening the borders of the Empire, and a number of castles and fortresses were built during his reign. The latter part of his reign is known for [[Campaigns of Emperor Guntherm|some of the bloodiest battles]] in Imperial history.

===(249 YE - 257 YE) Reign of Empress Brannan===
The [[Navarr|Navarri]] [[Empress Brannan]] followed Guntherm to the throne, and was another military-minded ruler dedicated to smashing the orcs and expanding the borders of the Empire. Ultimately, her abusive attitude to the powers of the Throne, and allegations of improper relations with certain [[Eternals]] resulted in her being the only Emperor or Empress to be [[Revocation|revoked]] by the [[Imperial Synod]]. Despite her failings, some of the most glorious battles in Imperial history take place during her reign, she showed what the Empire was capable of when sufficient resources were given to its armies, and with her support the Navarr made great advances in their fight to destroy the [[vallorn]] and reclaim their lost cities.

===(257 YE - 281 YE) Reign of Emperor James===
The [[The Marches|Marcher]] [[Emperor James]] took the throne as a peacemaker - not to make peace with the barbarians, but to make peace within the Empire. He was responsible for fixing the borders of the Empire..

====(265 YE) Fixing the borders====
The Senate decreed that the Empire was now large enough and argued that further expansion was counterproductive, despite vociferous argument from the Synod and the Military Council. Trade routes with various foreigners were established, and peace treaties were signed with various barbarians,ushering in an era of economic growth and prosperity.

Some barbarians continued to threaten the borders, but the armies shifted to a more defensive role.
==Renewal==
The renewal period starts with the fixing of the borders in 265YE and extends until the end of the reign of Emperor Ahraz. It marks a period of introspection, but also of strengthening and renewing an Empire ravaged by the violence and confusion of the years of Turmoil. With the acceptance of the Imperial Orcs as a tenth nation, the Empire's strength appears assured.

===(281 YE - 300 YE) The Second Interregnum===
After James' reign, a period of relative peace settled on the Empire. The borders were reinforced, relationships between the Senate, the Synod and the Military Council achieved a degree of status quo, and both the Conclave and the Bourse focused on their own interests. Modern scholars suggest that this was a period of increasing complacency and introspection for the Empire, but others point to the high quality of life for most citizens, the various advances in magic, the arts and technology, and consider it a golden age built on the solid foundations laid by Emperor James' reign.

=== (300 YE - 318 YE) Reign of Empress Deanne ===
[[Empress Deanne]] ends the Second Interregnum by taking the throne in 300 YE, primarily in response to increased orc aggression. Her early reign is taken up with organising a fractious and complacent Senate, and helping a largely inexperienced Military Council deal with the dual threat of Grendel invasions along the southern coast, and a major effort by the Druj in [[the Barrens]] to claim [[the Barrens#Dawnguard|Dawnguard]].

====(322 YE - 324 YE) The Orc Rebellion====
Prior to 322 YE, many orcs that were defeated in battle were enslaved. Orcs had no rights in the Empire before this time, as they were not considered people in the eyes of the Constitution. There were slave populations in Dawn, Wintermark and Highguard and especially in Varushka and The League.

During this period an orc hero arose among his people, leading them in [[The Orc Rebellion|armed revolt]] that saw them occupy parts of Varushka, the League, Dawn and the Marches. The Freeborn Emperor Ahraz arranged a deal with the orcs, and a motion to recognise them as people was brought before the Senate. The motion passed by a tiny margin, making the Imperial Orcs citizens of the Empire.

===(324 YE - 329 YE) Reign of Emperor Ahraz "the Liberator"===
The only [[The Brass Coast|Freeborn]] Emperor to date, [[Emperor Ahraz|Ahraz]] came to the throne with promises to end the Orc Rebellion. He did so by bringing the slaves into the Empire, and by recognising the right of orcs to be citizens. His reign was marked with turmoil, and he abdicated in 329 YE a broken man.

====(324 YE - 328 YE) The Freedom Heresy====
A briar priest preaching the heretical virtue of freedom ultimately inspired an [[Freedom Heresy|attempt to secede from the Empire]]. When the rebellion was defeated by Imperial forces, the priest led her followers into [[The Barrens]] where they attempted to found a rogue state; the kingdom of Mountane. In 328 YE the heretics were destroyed by barbarian orcs, and in 329 YE the ringleaders of the heresy were tried and executed for heresy and blasphemy.

==Decline==
===(331 YE) The Decline begins===
In 331YE the territory of [[Spiral]] was lost to [[Urizen]]. This marked the start of the current period called the decline. A greedy and corrupt Senate, more concerned with internal political manoeuvring than the strength of the Empire, supported two weak occupants of The Throne ([[Empress Giselle]] de Sarvos and [[Emperor Hugh]] the Fat of House Rousillon) and a third catastrophically incompetent Emperor (the weak and self-indulgent naga-lineaged [[Emperor Walter]] Upwold who did not enter the Senate once during his two year reign).

The Synod was mostly concerned with dogmatic disputes and began to lose sight of its mission.

In 346 YE the territory of [[Holberg]] was lost to the barbarians. This triggered a defensive mindset and a period of recriminations. More territories were lost, leading to further defensiveness and less inter-nation cooperation. The generals of the Military Council found it impossible to collaborate effectively during this period. The addition of the first [[Imperial Orcs|Imperial Orc]] generals in 351 YE simple made the matter worse.

Several more territories on the edges of the Empire were [[Lost Territories|lost]] during this time.

===(331 - 346 YE) Reign of Empress Giselle 'the unwise'===
[[Empress Giselle]] de [[Sarvos]] of the [[The League|League]] takes the throne following the loss of [[Spiral]] in 331 YE and despite some early efforts entirely failed to re-take that territory. Her reign is marked with a period of political upheaval largely caused by the Empress herself whose blatant favouritism towards the League splits the Senate and the Synod, and causes problems among the generals and the archmagi. Her reign ends with her death during the battle for [[Holberg]] which sees that territory lost to the Empire.

===(348 - 368 YE) Reign of Emperor Hugh, called 'the fat'===
After the death of Empress Giselle de Sarvos, [[Emperor Hugh|Hugh de Rousillon]] of [[Dawn]] takes the crown. Nephew of the Dawnish general Leon de Rousillon, and a noble of a politically and militarily powerful Dawn [[Noble house|noble house]], Hugh was a personable, enthusiastic and idealistic knight with extensive battlefield experience. Unfortunately, he was an absolutely abysmal administrator, incapable of delegation, torn between the realities of political life and his personal idealism. His reign is marked by a dizzying number of feasts, banquets and tourneys during which he desperately tried to woo an increasingly jaded [[Imperial Senate]], as well as a sequence of crushing military defeats as Generals began to compete with each other over dwindling resources.

By the end of his reign, the Emperor was almost unrecognisable as the energetic young man he had been when the took the Throne. Decades of feasting had left him corpulent and unhealthy, barely able to fit into his harness. Trying to stay ahead of the manipulations and machinations of the Senate had left him exhausted and despondent. According to those who saw him in the fateful battle for Karsk that spelled the end of his reign and ultimately his life, he was a broken man who embraced the peace offered by death.

===(371 - 373 YE) Reign of Emperor Walter, the ham-fisted===
[[Emperor Walter]] [[Upwold]] was a [[The Marches|Marcher]] [[naga]] who took the throne under dubious circumstances and was widely considered to be a disaster for the Empire. Under his 'reign' the Senate fell even further into open bickering and factionalism. He choked to death on an olive pit in 373YE during a state dinner with a group of [[Sarcophan Delves|Sarcophan]] and [[Principalities of Jarm|Jarmite]] diplomats.
==Resurgence==

===(374 YE) Coronation of Empress Britta===
A Steinr woman named [[Empress Britta|Britta]] became the nineteenth Empress. In the wake of the disastrous Emperor Walter (who was already being termed "the Ham Fisted") she took up the sword and shield and challenged the corruption of the Senate and Synod. She surrounded herself with competent generals, and began to formulate and prosecute a campaign to recover lost territories and drive the barbarians back.

A popular and charismatic figure, she united the people of the Empire behind her and dealt ruthlessly with her enemies. She had the wisdom to select competent advisors. People began to call her the Young Empress, and hailed her as the reincarnation of the First Empress, come to protect the Empire in its time of need.

====(376 YE) Death of the Young Empress====
The Empress Britta was killed during a disastrous attempt to retake Skarsind. Perhaps galvanised by this, the fastest campaign of conquest in Imperial history saw five territories previously lost returned to the Imperial fold. In the three years after her death, Skarsind, Karsk, Segura, Holberg, and Reikos were recaptured.

===(380 YE) Coronation of Empress Lisabetta===
Appointed by the Senate at the Spring Equinox, Lisabetta Giacomi von Holberg of the House of Seven Mirrors claims she is inspired by her countryman, the intellectual [[Emperor Frederick]], and by the example of the glorious [[Empress Richilde]], paragon of [[Pride]].

[[Category:History]]
[[Category:The Empire]]

Speak of Your Love

2016-07-16T10:56:39Z

ClaireS:

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan.

Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach.
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/c/c4/Speak_Of_Your_Love.pdf]
[https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/speak-of-your-love Recording]

<song>

'''Speak of your Love'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''

O Urizen of lofty Spires
Is not averse to passion’s fires
But if you’re always reading books
None will see your meaningful looks,

O Urizen of snow-capped peaks
Where one thinks well before one speaks
If one does not speak at all
It’s no surprise your love won’t fall.

So speak of your love,
Speak of it truly,
Speak of your love
Before you go;
Speak of your love
This morning, this evening,
Speak of your love
Or they’ll never know.

O Wintermark of ice and snow,
Where brave and bold a-hunting go,
If you stay tight within your furs
You’ll be left to fret and curse.
O Varushka, of the wood and wild,
Huddled snug around your fires,
To keep your heart locked up so tight,
May leave you lonely in the night,
So speak…

O Orcish tribes, with eyes aflame,
Fighting for the Empire’s name,
Who very frankly speak your mind –
Be sure you treat your love in kind,

O Navarr of the forest Trod,
Nimble scouts all leather-shod,
If you hide too long amid the trees
There’ll be none left for you to please.
So speak...

O Highguard, of the tall, proud towers,
Who’d walk around in mail for hours,
Done up so tightly in that skin,
How do you let a lover in?
O Freeborn of the ship and sail,
Who threw aside their cousins’ veils,
Take care, don’t set your price too high
Or lovers, too, will surely fly!
So speak…

O Marchers of the bill and block,
Such energetic, ruddy stock,
But with so much upon your plate
Will you speak before it’s too late?
O Dawn of ballad and fine verse,
Perhaps to speak too much is worse,
For giving them too much to heed
You might not make it to the deed!
So speak…

O Leaguers, with your smashing tights
And cities more alive at night,
To spend your evenings counting coins
Will do no service to your loins!

O people, please, hear my request,
Though much of this is done in jest,
If you’d not be alone this night
Communicate to set it right.
So speak…
.
</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

The Stargazer's Song

2016-07-16T10:45:06Z

ClaireS:

Written by Dave Lowry and Claire Sheridan.
[https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/the-stargazers-song Recording]

<song>
'''The Stargazer's Song'''
''Phoenix Reach''

Looking out,
Dancing in starlight,
Looking out,
What do I see?
Skies on fire,
And dancing in amongst that light,
The brightest vision,
I have ever seen.

Chorus:
And all I see is you in the sky,
But this empty winter’s night,
Needs a thousand sunset skies.

You my love,
Smile down upon me,
And you my love,
Light of my life,
Gentle hands,
So fine the artisans can’t touch,
The finest beauty,
I have ever seen.

Chorus

Evenings spent
Dancing in starlight,
Touch your cheek
With my gazing eyes,
Night on night,
Seeking out the mysteries,
The diamonds glinting,
In your raven hair.

Chorus

Ending 1:
You my love,
Dance on forever,
Skies on fire,
Will never fade.
Looking out,
Though my hair is white and thin now,
You smile down on me,
You never change.

Ending 2:
Looking out,
I didn’t hear you,
Walking out,
Light of my life.
I gaze on,
The only company I keep,
The brightest vision,
I have ever seen.
</song>

[[Category:Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Urizen Music]]

To March with Navarr

2016-07-16T10:35:23Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Category: Music Category: Urizen Category: Urizen Music Words by Jericho-Jayne Cobb to a traditional tune [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/to-march-with-n..."

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Words by Jericho-Jayne Cobb to a traditional tune [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/to-march-with-navarro Recording]

First sung by Jericho of the Suns of Couros in 379YE

<song>
'''To March with Navarr'''
''By General Jericho of the Valiant Pegasus''

I am a soldier of Highguard
In Bastion I was born
And many is the happy hour I’ve spent
On the banks of the river Couros.
But to the war I must endure,
As others of my nation,
To Reikos fight I'd march away,
To save this Highborn nation.

Chorus-
To march with Navarr
March with Navarr
To save this Highborn nation
To march with Navarr
March with Navarr
To save the Highborn nation

The night before we went away
I spent it with my darling
From lowest sun in the afternoon
To the break of day next morning.
And when that we were going to.part,
We lay in each other's arms,
And you may be sure, and very sure,
That we lay discontented.

Chorus....

The very first night we marched away,
I dreamt about my darling,
I dreamt I held her in my arms
And well she pleased my fancy.
And when I woke out of my dream,
And found my bed was empty,
You may be sure and very sure
That I lay discontented.

Chorus....

When we arrived to fight the war
We all were lean and healthy
We planted banners in the soil,
And set our shields and spears
For to the war we would endure,
As others of our nations,
To Reiko’s fight we'd marched away
To free the Highborn nation.

Chorus.

</song>

To Take High Chalcis

2016-07-16T10:28:36Z

ClaireS:

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdycmeAC-qw Show of Hands]
[https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/to-take-high-chalcis Recording]

Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach to commemorate the final stages of the war against the Drujj in Reikos, 379YE.
<song>

'''To Take High Chalcis'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''

From the nations they came to reclaim the land,
All were for Reikos bound, their weapons in hand..
Lights being lit in the chapter house, felt half a world away,
Miles to go over cursed lands, all the way…

It came to a head in the red of autumn,
With rivers that ran full of a plague,
Five armies stood after months of war, at the walls of that great fort,
And their Generals swore they’d push on, all the way...

All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way…

Urizen and the Marchers, Highborn and the League,
Commanded from Anvil, determined to save,
The Valiant Pegasus broke the walls, to end that foul siege,
The four armies held and they pushed those broken gates:

Early next morning, through the clouds and the mud,
Through the Sentinel gate, the heroes came,
Ritual stones causing miasma, the targets of the fray
And for all who had suffered, the Drujj would pay,

All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way…

Flags they were raised, and rituals started,
Mages all focused, soldiers kept foes at bay,
Wintermark, Highguard, Varushka, Navarr and Urizen,
Did Virtuous work in those cursed lands, all the way...

For thirteen years, the Highborn have waited,
Waited to punish the Drujj, and enter the fray,
Actions taken upon the field, gain their just reward,
General Jericho’s orders had won the day.

All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way…

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Won't Lay Down My Pride

2016-07-16T10:10:44Z

ClaireS:

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3eymY52PmM Emily Portman]
[https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/wont-lay-down-my-pride Recording]

Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/e/e1/Wont_Lay_Down_My_Pride.pdf PDF]

<song>

'''Won't Lay Down My Pride'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''

A Sentinel went out the gate,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
To battle Thule tribes was her fate,
I won't lay down my Pride.

They met them on a windswept field,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
They fought to make our enemies yield,
I won't lay down my Pride.

Their victory won, they turned for home,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
But they would not be left alone,
I won't lay down my Pride.

They met another band of Thule,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
Another warband, just as cruel,
I won't lay down my Pride.

The bulk of them had gained the gate,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
They must escape 'fore it's too late,
I won't lay down my Pride.

She moved to the back, to steady the line,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
The Orcs struck through the armies’ spine:
I won't lay down my Pride.

The captives then were marched away,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
And reached the camp by the break of day,
I won't lay down my Pride.

The orcs they kept them all awake,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
Sure that they would make them break,
I won't lay down my Pride.

Said they, "O soldier of Urizen high,"
Pride, soldier, Pride,
"Kneel to us or else you will die,"
I won't lay down my Pride.

They said, "Look at you, dressed up to fight,"
Pride, soldier, Pride,
"A soft thing like you won't last the night,"
I won't lay down my Pride.

But there she stayed and there she stood,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
Said, "All your taunts will do you no good,"
I won't lay down my Pride.

For three long days they went unfed,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
They were beaten and they bled,
I won't lay down my Pride.

And some they cried and some they died,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
And some they joined the other side,
I won't lay down my Pride.

And so the offer came again,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
"Serve now, or not see dawn again,"
I won't lay down my Pride.

So she breathed, and with a mighty roar,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
She fought as she'd never fought before,
I won't lay down my Pride.

Tooth and nail, knee and claw,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
She broke her captor's leering jaw,
I won't lay down my Pride.

And one last thing before she died,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
She lifted up her voice and cried,
"I won't lay down my Pride."

"It's enough for me, enough for me,"
Pride, soldier, Pride,
"To be proud and die virtuously,
I won't lay down my Pride."

''(rpt last verse'')

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Lament for Spiral

2016-07-16T10:08:51Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Category: Music Category: Urizen Category: Urizen Music Tune based on parts of "Dead Boy's Poem" by Nightwish. Words by Claire Sheridan. [https://soundcloud.com..."

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Tune based on parts of "Dead Boy's Poem" by Nightwish.
Words by Claire Sheridan. [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/lament-for-spiral Recording]

A song written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach at the start of the interregnum.

<song>
'''Lament for Spiral'''

So much silence, silence and darkness,
Towering spires, empty and gone,
So much to live for,
So much to die for,
To take back my heart's only home.
Exiled in Morrow, dream of tomorrow,
Destined to drown in your sorrow alone,
Winds blow through Spiral,
Reach for her Wisdom,
Fail, finding nobody.

Every tear that's silently shed,
Only strangthens our resolve,
Ankarien and sister spires,
Will again be ours to hold.

Seek out the strongholds, seek out the armies,
Scry for truth deep into the night,
So much to live for,
So much to die for,
But we will not give up the fight.
Learn all you can learn, strength lies in Wisdom,
Destined to march to my heart's only home,
WInds blow through Spiral,
Reach for her children,
Call, we will soon return.

Every tear that's silently shed,
Only strangthens our resolve,
Ankarien and sister spires,
Will again be ours to hold.

</song>

To Take High Chalcis

2016-06-04T17:55:25Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdycmeAC-qw Show of Hands] Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach to commemorate the final stages of the war ..."

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdycmeAC-qw Show of Hands]

Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach to commemorate the final stages of the war against the Drujj in Reikos, 379YE.
<song>

'''To Take High Chalcis'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''

From the nations they came to reclaim the land,
All were for Reikos bound, their weapons in hand..
Lights being lit in the chapter house, felt half a world away,
Miles to go over cursed lands, all the way…

It came to a head in the red of autumn,
With rivers that ran full of a plague,
Five armies stood after months of war, at the walls of that great fort,
And their Generals swore they’d push on, all the way...

All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way…

Urizen and the Marchers, Highborn and the League,
Commanded from Anvil, determined to save,
The Valiant Pegasus broke the walls, to end that foul siege,
The four armies held and they pushed those broken gates:

Early next morning, through the clouds and the mud,
Through the Sentinel gate, the heroes came,
Ritual stones causing miasma, the targets of the fray
And for all who had suffered, the Drujj would pay,

All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way…

Flags they were raised, and rituals started,
Mages all focused, soldiers kept foes at bay,
Wintermark, Highguard, Varushka, Navarr and Urizen,
Did Virtuous work in those cursed lands, all the way...

For thirteen years, the Highborn have waited,
Waited to punish the Drujj, and enter the fray,
Actions taken upon the field, gain their just reward,
General Jericho’s orders had won the day.

All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way to take High Chalcis
All the way…

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Won't Lay Down My Pride

2016-06-04T17:41:16Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3eymY52PmM Emily Portman] Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki..."

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3eymY52PmM Emily Portman]

Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/e/e1/Wont_Lay_Down_My_Pride.pdf PDF]

<song>

'''Won't Lay Down My Pride'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''

A Sentinel went out the gate,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
To battle Thule tribes was her fate,
I won't lay down my Pride.

They met them on a windswept field,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
They fought to make our enemies yield,
I won't lay down my Pride.

Their victory won, they turned for home,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
But they would not be left alone,
I won't lay down my Pride.

They met another band of Thule,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
Another warband, just as cruel,
I won't lay down my Pride.

The bulk of them had gained the gate,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
They must escape 'fore it's too late,
I won't lay down my Pride.

She moved to the back, to steady the line,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
The Orcs struck through the armies’ spine:
I won't lay down my Pride.

The captives then were marched away,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
And reached the camp by the break of day,
I won't lay down my Pride.

The orcs they kept them all awake,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
Sure that they would make them break,
I won't lay down my Pride.

Said they, "O soldier of Urizen high,"
Pride, soldier, Pride,
"Kneel to us or else you will die,"
I won't lay down my Pride.

They said, "Look at you, dressed up to fight,"
Pride, soldier, Pride,
"A soft thing like you won't last the night,"
I won't lay down my Pride.

But there she stayed and there she stood,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
Said, "All your taunts will do you no good,"
I won't lay down my Pride.

For three long days they went unfed,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
They were beaten and they bled,
I won't lay down my Pride.

And some they cried and some they died,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
And some they joined the other side,
I won't lay down my Pride.

And so the offer came again,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
"Serve now, or not see dawn again,"
I won't lay down my Pride.

So she breathed, and with a mighty roar,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
She fought as she'd never fought before,
I won't lay down my Pride.

Tooth and nail, knee and claw,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
She broke her captor's leering jaw,
I won't lay down my Pride.

And one last thing before she died,
Pride, soldier, Pride,
She lifted up her voice and cried,
"I won't lay down my Pride."

"It's enough for me, enough for me,"
Pride, soldier, Pride,
"To be proud and die virtuously,
I won't lay down my Pride."

''(rpt last verse'')

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

File:Wont Lay Down My Pride.pdf

2016-06-04T17:39:17Z

ClaireS:

Treasures of Zenith

2016-06-04T17:35:42Z

ClaireS:

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan.
Recording: [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/treasures-of-zenith here]
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/5/50/Treasures_Of_Zenith.pdf PDF]

Third in "The Black Plateau Saga"

<song>

'''Treasures of Zenith'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire''

By the gates of Urizen
A tea house stands,
Two Naga stand ready,
With helping hands.
In the cool, dark tents,
Of the Sentinel’s Repose,
They’ll soothe your aching mind,
They’ll soothe your aching bones.

The Solace of our nation,
Their main concern,
Into the Realm of Night,
Their vision burns.
In their cool, sharp minds,
The pieces slot in place;
They keep our secrets well,
They keep our secrets safe.

They and I and coven bold,
The Plateau saw,
They and I and coven bold,
Sought out more.
In the cool, high spires,
We showed and made our plans,
We knew where we would fight,
We knew where we would stand.

An Arbiter then came to call
In dead of night,
He brought with him the message,
The time is right.
In a warm, sick sweat,
Two Naga sleeping lie;
It should have been their night,
It should have been their time.

So I’ll sing of our ritual
For all should know,
Of the great deeds done,
On the Black Plateau.
In the heart of the tale,
There always should remain,
Those who know it best,
Elyssian, Elyssiathain.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

File:Treasures Of Zenith.pdf

2016-06-04T17:34:23Z

ClaireS:

The Comical Dreamer

2016-06-04T17:29:35Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Trad. Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/e/ec/The_Comical_Dreamer.pdf PDF] <song> '''The Comical Dreamer''' ''Tra..."

Trad.
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/e/ec/The_Comical_Dreamer.pdf PDF]

<song>

'''The Comical Dreamer'''
''Traditional Urizeni

Last night a dream came into my head
Thou wert a fine white loaf of bread.
Then if may butter I could be
How I would spread
Oh! How I would spread myself on thee.
This morning too my thoughts ran hard
That you were made a cool tankard
Then could I but a lemon be
How I would squeeze
Oh! how I would squeeze my juice in thee.

Lately, when fancy too did roam,
Thou wert my dear, a honeycomb;
And had I been a pretty bee
How I would suck
Oh! How I would creep, creep into thee.
A vision, too, I had of old
That thou a mortar wert of gold
Then could I but the pestle be
How I would pound
Oh! How I would pound my spice in thee.

Once joy in dreaming did I meet,
Thou wert a bowl of brandy sweet.
Oh! could I then the ladle be
How would I pour
O! how would I pour out joys from thee.
Another time by charm divine
I dreamt thou wert an orchard fine
Then could I but thy farmer be
How I would plant
Oh! how I would plant my fruit in thee.

Soon after whims came in my pate
Thou wert a pot of chocolate
And could I but the rowler be
How would I rub
Oh! how would I twirl and froth up thee.
But since all dreams are vain my dear
Let now some solid joy appear
My soul still thine is prov'd to be
Let body now
Oh! let body now with soul agree.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

File:The Comical Dreamer.pdf

2016-06-04T17:28:04Z

ClaireS:

Beyond Apulian's Light

2016-06-04T17:24:18Z

ClaireS:

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Words and tune by Aneurin Redman-White. [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/2/2b/Apulians_Light.pdf PDF] here.

<song>
'''Beyond Apulian’s Light'''

''Ithamar Legacy''

When I was young and scarce eighteen
They said I lacked for poise;
With book or wand was seldom seen
But wine and handsome boys.
My parents to my great dismay
Did vow to set me right;
They said I’d learn my arete
Beyond Apulian’s light.

Apprenticed to a sailing crew
And set aboard in haste,
From captain’s lips the order flew
“There is no time to waste!”
They weighed the anchor, shook out sail
And soon we were in flight
To southward on a summer gale
Beyond Apulian’s light.

Now as time fled I bolder grew
And seasoned in my work;
I ran aloft with my ship’s crew
And would no duty shirk.
When Grendel sought our ship to burn
We triumphed in the fight
I knew that honour I would earn
Beyond Apulian’s light.

We crossed the ocean unafraid
For Asavea bound
Where orichalcum, tempest jade,
And mazzarine are found.
We bargained for their treasures there
And to my bed at night
I took a slave-magician fair
Beyond Apulian’s light.

Soon home to Spiral we returned
And found within the year
My parents’ lesson I’d not learned:
I bore a daughter dear.
But though I’ve travelled far since then
And memories burn bright
Her father I’ve not seen again
Beyond Apulian’s light.

</song>

Black Plateau

2016-06-04T17:23:17Z

ClaireS:

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan. [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/black-plateau Recording] and [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/0/03/Black_Plateau.pdf PDF] here. (Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White)

A song written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach after the first skirmish to the Black Plateau, Spiral, in YE377.

<song>
Through the gate and here we go,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
With courage and pride to face the foe,
High up on the Black Plateau.

There is a place in Urizen fair,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
Where whispering voices fill the air,
Those who tread should tread with care,
Don’t trust what you hear on the air,
High up on the Black Plateau.

Gathered people, wild and cruel,
Up, up on the Black Plateau,
They’ll laugh in your face as they run you through,
High up on the Black Plateau.

There is a place in Urizen bold,
Up, up on the Black Plateau,
Where wild men worship something old,
The sight of it will leave you cold,
They’ll take your blood to feed its soul,
High up on the Black Plateau.

Blades of venom, blades of glass,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
Will stop you if you try to pass,
High up on the Black Plateau.

There is a place in Urizen high,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
Where they’ve got blades to warp your mind,
An anger unknown to our kind,
Don’t lash out or get left behind,
High up on the Black Plateau.

Through the gate and here we go,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
With courage and pride to face the foe,
High up on the Black Plateau.

</song>

Blow the Candles Out

2016-06-04T17:22:07Z

ClaireS:

Traditional.
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/7/76/Blow_The_Candles_Out.pdf PDF] here

An old Marcher song of courtship.
<song>

'''Blow the Candles Out'''

When I was apprenticed in Stockland, I went to see my dear
The candles all were burning, the moon shone bright and clear
I knocked upon her window to ease her out of her pain
She rose up to let me in, then barred the door again

I like well your behaviour and this I often say
I cannot rest contented when I am far away
The roads they are so muddy, we cannot walk about
So roll me in your arms, Love, and blow the candles out

Your father and your mother in yonder room do lie
A-hugging one another, so why not you and I?
A-hugging one another, without a fear or doubt
So roll me in your arms, Love, and blow the candles out

I pray thee speak more softly of what we have to do
Lest that our noise of talking should make our pleasure rue
The streets they are so nigh, Love, the people walk about
They may peep in and spy, Love, so blow the candles out

And if we prove successful Love, please name it after me
Treat it neat and kiss it sweet and daft it on your knee
When my two years are over, my time it will be out
And I will pay my debt to you by blowing the candles out.

</song>

[[Category:Marcher Music]]
[[Category:Marches]]
[[Category:Music]]

Rules of Engagement

2016-06-04T17:18:19Z

ClaireS:

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan.
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/3/31/Rules_Of_Engagement.pdf PDF] here

Written in 378YE.

<song>

'''Rules of Engagement'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire''

Once there lived a Dawnish man,
So gallant and so bold,
His great Ambition was to find
A love to have and hold.
But his path it was not easy,
In truth ‘twas filled with woe,
As our brave and handsome lad
Did a-wooing go.

At first he found a gentle lady,
Delicate as a rose,
Her hair was as the raven dark,
Her skin like fallen snow,
But paler she was, and paler she grew,
As the summer months went on,
By autumn he had won her heart,
But by winter she was gone.

Into another’s arms he fell,
Being quite forlorn,
He bought he circlets like evening stars,
Dresses which shimmered like the dawn.
She took his gifts and more besides,
But when her asked her to wed,
She took herself away and back
To her own true lover’s bed.

When next he fell it was for one
Who bravely took the field,
Together they sounded the battle cry,
And swore to never yield.
But he lay gravely wounded,
She feared that he was dead,
When he came home his wounds were healed
But another she had wed.

Next for a Changeling bright he fell,
With hair gold as the sun,
He was sure in Summer’s beating heart,
He had found the one.
He traced the spirals on her skin,
Thought she would be his wife,
‘Til she answered Cathan Canea’s call
And left for a Herald’s life.

A yeoman next did catch his eye,
A scandal it did cause,
But he thought her perfect,
A woman without flaws.
She visited them often,
He thought she’d be his spouse,
But her true intent became too clear
The day she joined his house.

A Cambion, both proud and tall
Put him to the test,
To fetch her a Chimera’s scale,
To prove he loved her best.
But Chimera’s scales are found on beasts
No single man can slay,
Wisdom calmed his mighty ardour -
He would not find love that way.

One night, drowning in his cups,
The lord told all his tale,
Of loves long lost he’d once thought won,
Of his fate to ever fail,
When one stepped out then from the crowd,
To soothe his aching heart,
She said she’d end his suffering
And that they’d never part.

So she braids flowers in his hair,
He sweet words for her ear,
They pledged to live in harmony,
They pledged to give one year,
And when that year was ended,
They pledged to give a score -
Both merry and contented then,
They lived forevermore.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Severus' Song

2016-06-04T17:15:49Z

ClaireS:

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan.
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/5/51/Severus_Song.pdf PDF] here

Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach after the death of Captain Severus of Phoenix Reach. He was the founder and leader of Severus' Severed, at the time a group of travelling Sentinels learning to fight on the slopes of Urizen. He fell fighting in the Barrens in the Winter of 378. May his passage through the Labyrinth be swift.

<song>
Come one, come all,
Who walk in the mountains,
Come bring your weapons,
And bring your wiles,
Come keep the boarders,
And the passes of Urizen,
The Severed are marching
Out again.

Severus stands in his plume and armour,
New recruit has lost his bow,
He'll have to get himself another one,
From the hand of a new-slain foe.

Living's hard when you're loose on a mountain,
Sleeping's hard when you sleep on rock,
But you can drink and sing and do what you like,
As long as you're up in the morning.

Severus leads from the front of his war band
Training Sentinels row on row,
It doesn't matter if you're new to Urizen,
As long as you're against the foe.

Fighting's hard in the snow storms and hail,
Dying's hard in the wind and rain,
But you can drink and sing and do what you like,
As long as you're up in the morning.

Severus died on the fields of the barrens,
Leading the Reach to fill the hole,
He fought with Pride and he fought with Courage,
That's sure to speed his mortal soul.

Living's good when you're free on a mountain,
With someone to lead you on the way,
And you can drink and sing and do what you like,
As long as you're up in the morning.

Come one, come all,
Who walk in the mountains,
Come bring your weapons,
And bring your wiles,
Come keep the boarders,
And the passes of Urizen,
The Severed are marching
Home again.

</song>

Speak of Your Love

2016-06-04T17:11:29Z

ClaireS:

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan.

Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach.
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/c/c4/Speak_Of_Your_Love.pdf]

<song>

'''Speak of your Love'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''

O Urizen of lofty Spires
Is not averse to passion’s fires
But if you’re always reading books
None will see your meaningful looks,

O Urizen of snow-capped peaks
Where one thinks well before one speaks
If one does not speak at all
It’s no surprise your love won’t fall.

So speak of your love,
Speak of it truly,
Speak of your love
Before you go;
Speak of your love
This morning, this evening,
Speak of your love
Or they’ll never know.

O Wintermark of ice and snow,
Where brave and bold a-hunting go,
If you stay tight within your furs
You’ll be left to fret and curse.
O Varushka, of the wood and wild,
Huddled snug around your fires,
To keep your heart locked up so tight,
May leave you lonely in the night,
So speak…

O Orcish tribes, with eyes aflame,
Fighting for the Empire’s name,
Who very frankly speak your mind –
Be sure you treat your love in kind,

O Navarr of the forest Trod,
Nimble scouts all leather-shod,
If you hide too long amid the trees
There’ll be none left for you to please.
So speak...

O Highguard, of the tall, proud towers,
Who’d walk around in mail for hours,
Done up so tightly in that skin,
How do you let a lover in?
O Freeborn of the ship and sail,
Who threw aside their cousins’ veils,
Take care, don’t set your price too high
Or lovers, too, will surely fly!
So speak…

O Marchers of the bill and block,
Such energetic, ruddy stock,
But with so much upon your plate
Will you speak before it’s too late?
O Dawn of ballad and fine verse,
Perhaps to speak too much is worse,
For giving them too much to heed
You might not make it to the deed!
So speak…

O Leaguers, with your smashing tights
And cities more alive at night,
To spend your evenings counting coins
Will do no service to your loins!

O people, please, hear my request,
Though much of this is done in jest,
If you’d not be alone this night
Communicate to set it right.
So speak…
.
</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

File:Speak Of Your Love.pdf

2016-06-04T17:09:46Z

ClaireS:

Severus' Song

2016-06-04T17:06:50Z

ClaireS:

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan. [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/5/51/Severus_Song.pdf PDF] here

Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach after the death of Captain Severus of Phoenix Reach. He was the founder and leader of Severus' Severed, at the time a group of travelling Sentinels learning to fight on the slopes of Urizen. He fell fighting in the Barrens in the Winter of 378. May his passage through the Labyrinth be swift.

<song>
Come one, come all,
Who walk in the mountains,
Come bring your weapons,
And bring your wiles,
Come keep the boarders,
And the passes of Urizen,
The Severed are marching
Out again.

Severus stands in his plume and armour,
New recruit has lost his bow,
He'll have to get himself another one,
From the hand of a new-slain foe.

Living's hard when you're loose on a mountain,
Sleeping's hard when you sleep on rock,
But you can drink and sing and do what you like,
As long as you're up in the morning.

Severus leads from the front of his war band
Training Sentinels row on row,
It doesn't matter if you're new to Urizen,
As long as you're against the foe.

Fighting's hard in the snow storms and hail,
Dying's hard in the wind and rain,
But you can drink and sing and do what you like,
As long as you're up in the morning.

Severus died on the fields of the barrens,
Leading the Reach to fill the hole,
He fought with Pride and he fought with Courage,
That's sure to speed his mortal soul.

Living's good when you're free on a mountain,
With someone to lead you on the way,
And you can drink and sing and do what you like,
As long as you're up in the morning.

Come one, come all,
Who walk in the mountains,
Come bring your weapons,
And bring your wiles,
Come keep the boarders,
And the passes of Urizen,
The Severed are marching
Home again.

</song>

File:Severus Song.pdf

2016-06-04T17:06:08Z

ClaireS:

Rules of Engagement

2016-06-04T17:02:22Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan. [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/3/31/Rules_Of_Engagement.pdf PDF] here ..."

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan.
[http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/3/31/Rules_Of_Engagement.pdf PDF] here

Written in 378YE.

<song>

'''Rules of Engagement'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire''

Once there lived a Dawnish man,
So gallant and so bold,
His great Ambition was to find
A love to have and hold.
But his path it was not easy,
In truth ‘twas filled with woe,
As our brave and handsome lad
Did a-wooing go.

At first he found a gentle lady,
Delicate as a rose,
Her hair was as the raven dark,
Her skin like fallen snow,
But paler she was, and paler she grew,
As the summer months went on,
By autumn he had won her heart,
But by winter she was gone.

Into another’s arms he fell,
Being quite forlorn,
He bought he circlets like evening stars,
Dresses which shimmered like the dawn.
She took his gifts and more besides,
But when her asked her to wed,
She took herself away and back
To her own true lover’s bed.

When next he fell it was for one
Who bravely took the field,
Together they sounded the battle cry,
And swore to never yield.
But he lay gravely wounded,
She feared that he was dead,
When he came home his wounds were healed
But another she had wed.

Next for a Changeling bright he fell,
With hair gold as the sun,
He was sure in Summer’s beating heart,
He had found the one.
He traced the spirals on her skin,
Thought she would be his wife,
‘Til she answered Cathan Canea’s call
And left for a Herald’s life.

A yeoman next did catch his eye,
A scandal it did cause,
But he thought her perfect,
A woman without flaws.
She visited them often,
He thought she’d be his spouse,
But her true intent became too clear
The day she joined his house.

A Cambion, both proud and tall
Put him to the test,
To fetch her a Chimera’s scale,
To prove he loved her best.
But Chimera’s scales are found on beasts
No single man can slay,
Wisdom calmed his mighty ardour -
He would not find love that way.

One night, drowning in his cups,
The lord told all his tale,
Of loves long lost he’d once thought won,
Of his fate to ever fail,
When one stepped out then from the crowd,
To soothe his aching heart,
She said she’d end his suffering
And that they’d never part.

So she braids flowers in his hair,
He sweet words for her ear,
They pledged to live in harmony,
They pledged to give one year,
And when that year was ended,
They pledged to give a score -
Both merry and contented then,
They lived forevermore.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

File:Rules Of Engagement.pdf

2016-06-04T17:01:15Z

ClaireS:

Urizen Memorial Song

2016-06-04T16:49:07Z

ClaireS:

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/memorial-part-2 tune]
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/2/25/Memorial_Song.pdf PDF]

<song>

We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.
We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.

Immortal spirits, through virtues we try,
To make the most of each of our lives.
To return from the Labyrinth enriched and enlightened,
Beginning again to learn and to strive.

We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.
We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.

The Labyrinth will take us, our own time will come,
To walk for a while away from the sun,
While on the Way our path only moves forward,
Mourn not the soul that is sure to return.

We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.
We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.

Where there is darkness, we will make light,
We will lead others on the path that is right,
Though the price may seem high, life is never lost,
When given in earnest, here in our sight.

We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.
We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.

Follow the Paragons, follow the Way,
Follow your loved ones into the fray,
Each day is a battle for control of the self,
We will triumph ourselves over death one day.

</song>

Edit the categories appropriately. This is important.
[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

File:Memorial Song.pdf

2016-06-04T16:48:25Z

ClaireS:

Blow the Candles Out

2016-06-04T16:44:44Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Traditional. An old Marcher song of courtship. [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/7/76/Blow_The_Candles_Out.pdf PDF] here <song> '''Blow the Candle..."

Traditional.

An old Marcher song of courtship. [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/7/76/Blow_The_Candles_Out.pdf PDF] here

<song>

'''Blow the Candles Out'''

When I was apprenticed in Stockland, I went to see my dear
The candles all were burning, the moon shone bright and clear
I knocked upon her window to ease her out of her pain
She rose up to let me in, then barred the door again

I like well your behaviour and this I often say
I cannot rest contented when I am far away
The roads they are so muddy, we cannot walk about
So roll me in your arms, Love, and blow the candles out

Your father and your mother in yonder room do lie
A-hugging one another, so why not you and I?
A-hugging one another, without a fear or doubt
So roll me in your arms, Love, and blow the candles out

I pray thee speak more softly of what we have to do
Lest that our noise of talking should make our pleasure rue
The streets they are so nigh, Love, the people walk about
They may peep in and spy, Love, so blow the candles out

And if we prove successful Love, please name it after me
Treat it neat and kiss it sweet and daft it on your knee
When my two years are over, my time it will be out
And I will pay my debt to you by blowing the candles out.

</song>

[[Category:Marcher Music]]
[[Category:Marches]]
[[Category:Music]]

File:Blow The Candles Out.pdf

2016-06-04T16:43:51Z

ClaireS:

Beyond Apulian's Light

2016-06-04T16:26:08Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Category: Music Category: Urizen Category: Urizen Music Words and tune by Aneurin Redman-White. [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/2/2b/..."

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Words and tune by Aneurin Redman-White. [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/2/2b/Apulians_Light.pdf PDF] here.

<song>
'''Beyond Apulian’s Light'''

''Ithamar Legacy''

When I was young and scarce eighteen
They said I lacked for poise;
With book or wand was seldom seen
But wine and handsome boys.
My parents to my great dismay
Did vow to set me right;
They said I’d learn my arete
Beyond Apulian’s light.

Apprenticed to a sailing crew
And set aboard in haste,
From captain’s lips the order flew
“There is no time to waste!”
They weighed the anchor, shook out sail
And soon we were in flight
To southward on a summer gale
Beyond Apulian’s light.

Now as time fled I bolder grew
And seasoned in my work;
I ran aloft with my ship’s crew
And would no duty shirk.
When Grendel sought our ship to burn
We triumphed in the fight
I knew that honour I would earn
Beyond Apulian’s light

We crossed the ocean unafraid
For Asavea bound
Where orichalcum, tempest jade,
And mazzarine are found.
We bargained for their treasures there
And to my bed at night
I took a slave-magician fair
Beyond Apulian’s light.

Soon home to Spiral we returned
And found within the year
My parents’ lesson I’d not learned:
I bore a daughter dear.
But though I’ve travelled far since then
And memories burn bright
Her father I’ve not seen again
Beyond Apulian’s light.

</song>

File:Apulians Light.pdf

2016-06-04T16:25:05Z

ClaireS:

Black Plateau

2016-06-04T16:11:24Z

ClaireS:

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan. [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/black-plateau Recording] and [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/0/03/Black_Plateau.pdf PDF] here.

A song written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach after the first skirmish to the Black Plateau, Spiral, in YE377.

<song>
Through the gate and here we go,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
With courage and pride to face the foe,
High up on the Black Plateau.

There is a place in Urizen fair,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
Where whispering voices fill the air,
Those who tread should tread with care,
Don’t trust what you hear on the air,
High up on the Black Plateau.

Gathered people, wild and cruel,
Up, up on the Black Plateau,
They’ll laugh in your face as they run you through,
High up on the Black Plateau.

There is a place in Urizen bold,
Up, up on the Black Plateau,
Where wild men worship something old,
The sight of it will leave you cold,
They’ll take your blood to feed its soul,
High up on the Black Plateau.

Blades of venom, blades of glass,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
Will stop you if you try to pass,
High up on the Black Plateau.

There is a place in Urizen high,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
Where they’ve got blades to warp your mind,
An anger unknown to our kind,
Don’t lash out or get left behind,
High up on the Black Plateau.

Through the gate and here we go,
Up, up to the Black Plateau,
With courage and pride to face the foe,
High up on the Black Plateau.

</song>

File:Black Plateau.pdf

2016-06-04T16:09:51Z

ClaireS:

The Ritual On The Black Plateau

2016-03-15T12:06:54Z

ClaireS:

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan.
Recording: https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/the-ritual-on-the-black

Fourth in "The Black Plateau Saga"

<song>
'''The Ritual on the Black Plateau'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire''

It began on a starry night,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
We were told our time had come,
Bring to bear Poise and Arête both:
Citizens were gathered, plans were laid that night,
Shone light on our work so all would know,
With the Twins’ assent, we’d end the foul torment,
We’d make Spiral a place we’d once again call home.

The Ritualists took up the task,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
To mark out the vital sign,
Bring to bear Poise and Arête both:
Gather up the mana: lay it out with chord,
Bring all you can bring to make it so,
Now by Virtue’s light, we must get it right,
We’d make Spiral a place we’d once again call home.

The Sentinels took up the task,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
To consider every foe,
Bring to bear Poise and Arête both:
Highguard played the madmen at our captains’ word,
The Cultist’s dance performed just so,
Sword and rod and shield were bound to make them yield,
We’d make Spiral a place we’d once again call home.

The Urizen went out the gate,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
Now to use what they had learned,
Bring to bear Poise and Arête both:
Madmen rushed the circle as we laid it down,
As inside, so without, we fought the foe,
For our blood they cried, even as they died.
We’d make Spiral a place we’d once again call home.

With our Archmage at the fore,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
And the General close at hand,
Bring to bear Poise and Arete both:
Egregore stepped forward to the circle’s heart,
As Eudaemon pulled the magic’s flow,
Nicassia repelled them, Vulpes struck them down,
To make Sprial a place we’d once again call home.

Now don’t rest your mind too soon,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
Though a great wound has been healed,
Bring to bear Poise and Arete both:
Peace is settling gently, minds are whole again,
But this is not over we all know,
We have work to do and we must stay true,
To make Sprial a place we’ll once again call home.
</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Treasures of Zenith

2016-03-15T12:06:17Z

ClaireS:

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan.
Recording: https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/treasures-of-zenith

Third in "The Black Plateau Saga"

<song>

'''Treasures of Zenith'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire''''

By the gates of Urizen
A tea house stands,
Two Naga stand ready,
With helping hands.
In the cool, dark tents,
Of the Sentinel’s Repose,
They’ll soothe your aching mind,
They’ll soothe your aching bones.

The Solace of our nation,
Their main concern,
Into the Realm of Night,
Their vision burns.
In their cool, sharp minds,
The pieces slot in place;
They keep our secrets well,
They keep our secrets safe.

They and I and coven bold,
The Plateau saw,
They and I and coven bold,
Sought out more.
In the cool, high spires,
We showed and made our plans,
We knew where we would fight,
We knew where we would stand.

An Arbiter then came to call
In dead of night,
He brought with him the message,
The time is right.
In a warm, sick sweat,
Two Naga sleeping lie;
It should have been their night,
It should have been their time.

So I’ll sing of our ritual
For all should know,
Of the great deeds done,
On the Black Plateau.
In the heart of the tale,
There always should remain,
Those who know it best,
Elyssian, Elyssiathain.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Treasures of Zenith

2016-02-26T13:57:57Z

ClaireS:

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan.

Third in "The Black Plateau Saga"

<song>

'''Treasures of Zenith'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire''''

By the gates of Urizen
A tea house stands,
Two Naga stand ready,
With helping hands.
In the cool, dark tents,
Of the Sentinel’s Repose,
They’ll soothe your aching mind,
They’ll soothe your aching bones.

The Solace of our nation,
Their main concern,
Into the Realm of Night,
Their vision burns.
In their cool, sharp minds,
The pieces slot in place;
They keep our secrets well,
They keep our secrets safe.

They and I and coven bold,
The Plateau saw,
They and I and coven bold,
Sought out more.
In the cool, high spires,
We showed and made our plans,
We knew where we would fight,
We knew where we would stand.

An Arbiter then came to call
In dead of night,
He brought with him the message,
The time is right.
In a warm, sick sweat,
Two Naga sleeping lie;
It should have been their night,
It should have been their time.

So I’ll sing of our ritual
For all should know,
Of the great deeds done,
On the Black Plateau.
In the heart of the tale,
There always should remain,
Those who know it best,
Elyssian, Elyssiathain.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Treasures of Zenith

2016-02-26T13:57:18Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan. Third in "The Black Plateau Saga" <song> '''''Treasures of Zenith''' By Nicassia of Phoenix Reac..."

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan.

Third in "The Black Plateau Saga"

<song>

'''''Treasures of Zenith'''
By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire''

By the gates of Urizen
A tea house stands,
Two Naga stand ready,
With helping hands.
In the cool, dark tents,
Of the Sentinel’s Repose,
They’ll soothe your aching mind,
They’ll soothe your aching bones.

The Solace of our nation,
Their main concern,
Into the Realm of Night,
Their vision burns.
In their cool, sharp minds,
The pieces slot in place;
They keep our secrets well,
They keep our secrets safe.

They and I and coven bold,
The Plateau saw,
They and I and coven bold,
Sought out more.
In the cool, high spires,
We showed and made our plans,
We knew where we would fight,
We knew where we would stand.

An Arbiter then came to call
In dead of night,
He brought with him the message,
The time is right.
In a warm, sick sweat,
Two Naga sleeping lie;
It should have been their night,
It should have been their time.

So I’ll sing of our ritual
For all should know,
Of the great deeds done,
On the Black Plateau.
In the heart of the tale,
There always should remain,
Those who know it best,
Elyssian, Elyssiathain.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

The Ritual On The Black Plateau

2016-02-26T13:54:09Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan. Fourth in "The Black Plateau Saga" <song> '''The Ritual on the Black Plateau''' ''By Nicassia of ..."

Words by Claire Sheridan. Tune by Aneurin Redman-White and Claire Sheridan.

Fourth in "The Black Plateau Saga"

<song>
'''The Ritual on the Black Plateau'''
''By Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire''

It began on a starry night,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
We were told our time had come,
Bring to bear Poise and Arête both:
Citizens were gathered, plans were laid that night,
Shone light on our work so all would know,
With the Twins’ assent, we’d end the foul torment,
We’d make Spiral a place we’d once again call home.

The Ritualists took up the task,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
To mark out the vital sign,
Bring to bear Poise and Arête both:
Gather up the mana: lay it out with chord,
Bring all you can bring to make it so,
Now by Virtue’s light, we must get it right,
We’d make Spiral a place we’d once again call home.

The Sentinels took up the task,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
To consider every foe,
Bring to bear Poise and Arête both:
Highguard played the madmen at our captains’ word,
The Cultist’s dance performed just so,
Sword and rod and shield were bound to make them yield,
We’d make Spiral a place we’d once again call home.

The Urizen went out the gate,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
Now to use what they had learned,
Bring to bear Poise and Arête both:
Madmen rushed the circle as we laid it down,
As inside, so without, we fought the foe,
For our blood they cried, even as they died.
We’d make Spiral a place we’d once again call home.

With our Archmage at the fore,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
And the General close at hand,
Bring to bear Poise and Arete both:
Egregore stepped forward to the circle’s heart,
As Eudaemon pulled the magic’s flow,
Nicassia repelled them, Vulpes struck them down,
To make Sprial a place we’d once again call home.

Now don’t rest your mind too soon,
Talk of the madness of the Black Plateau,
Though a great wound has been healed,
Bring to bear Poise and Arete both:
Peace is settling gently, minds are whole again,
But this is not over we all know,
We have work to do and we must stay true,
To make Sprial a place we’ll once again call home.
</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

The Three Pillars

2016-02-26T13:18:31Z

ClaireS:

Tune by Dave Lowry, lyrics by Dave Lowry and Claire Sheridan.

A meditation on the key concepts underpinning the Urizen.
<song>
'''The Three Pillars'''
''Ioseph & Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''

We shape and we perceive,
We hide and grow.
The Realms move and concede;
We move the flow.
A word can break a wall,
A rune a soul:
We'll know and name them all,
Make this world whole.

'''Chorus:'''
These three pillars hold our nation,
Stronger than mountains, clearer than a stream,
Virtue carried to our horizon,
These three pillars.

We document and own,
We learn and grow:
All knowledge can be known;
It's ours to know.
We reason and apply,
We use with care,
Our Spires touch the sky,
Destiny’s there.

('''Chorus)'''

So ever on we strive,
Ambitions grow.
Through Poise we show our Pride
In what we know.
Our work will strengthen all;
We'll pass it on.
Others will heed the call
After we've gone.

'''(Chorus)'''

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

The Three Pillars

2016-02-26T13:17:57Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Tune by Dave Lowry, lyrics by Dave Lowry and Claire Sheridan. A meditation on the key concepts underpinning the Urizen. <song> '''The Three Pillars''' ''Ioseph & Nicassia of ..."

Tune by Dave Lowry, lyrics by Dave Lowry and Claire Sheridan.

A meditation on the key concepts underpinning the Urizen.
<song>
'''The Three Pillars'''
''Ioseph & Nicassia of Phoenix Reach''

We shape and we perceive,
We hide and grow.
The Realms move and concede;
We move the flow.
A word can break a wall,
A rune a soul:
We'll know and name them all,
Make this world whole.

'''Chorus:'''
These three pillars hold our nation,
Stronger than mountains, clearer than a stream,
Virtue carried to our horizon,
These three pillars.

We document and own,
We learn and grow:
All knowledge can be known;
It's ours to know.
We reason and apply,
We use with care,
Our Spires touch the sky,
Destiny’s there.

(chorus)

So ever on we strive,
Ambitions grow.
Through Poise we show our Pride
In what we know.
Our work will strengthen all;
We'll pass it on.
Others will heed the call
After we've gone.
(chorus)

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Peace of the Mountains

2016-02-26T12:53:56Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words by Claire Sheridan to a traditional tune. Traditional Urizen call and repeat song. A leader sings a line, the chorus sing it back. Can also be sung as a round if sung c..."

Words by Claire Sheridan to a traditional tune.

Traditional Urizen call and repeat song. A leader sings a line, the chorus sing it back. Can also be sung as a round if sung continuously.

<song>

Peace of the Mountains

Long I have travelled through mountains and vales,
Seeking new wonders, new path-ways, new trails,
Grace of the mountains, dear to my heart,
Grace of the mountains, ne’er let us part.

Tall Spires we built here and long have they stayed,
Long since their cornerstones deeply were laid,
Strength of the mountains, silent and sure,
Strength of the mountains, hold for e’er more.

Fine herbs are found here and mana beside,
One day we will know all the great mountains hide,
Gifts of the mountains, ours to control,
Gifts of the mountains, ours to extoll.

Long I have wondered and much I have seen,
But nowhere have I found a place so serene,
Peace of the mountains, soothing my soul,
Peace of the mountains, making me whole.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Captain Decius' Song

2016-02-26T12:50:24Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words and tune by Claire Sheridan A song by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach after the death of Decius Cascade. <song> Now inside the Spire, There sits an empty chair, For Courage..."

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan

A song by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach after the death of Decius Cascade.

<song>

Now inside the Spire,
There sits an empty chair,
For Courageous Captain Decius
No longer sits there.

Decius was brave and bold,
He wore the General’s sash,
Though it was voted off him,
For his actions were too rash.

He fought our foes with life and limb,
He gathered many friends,
We took great Pride in Decius,
Until he met his end.

His Loyalty sustained us,
His face in battle grim,
He took such grievous injuries,
Our chirurgeon’s sustained him!

Bandaged Captain Decius,
Always quick to smile,
He counselled with humility,
He went the extra mile.

Now inside the Spire,
There sits an empty chair,
For Courageous Captain Decius,
No longer sits there.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

I will make you brooches

2016-02-26T12:46:27Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words by Claire Sheridan, to a traditional tune. A song for the Flower Festival, which is held in Urizen in the Spring. It is a time for the citizens of Urizen to comment an..."

Words by Claire Sheridan, to a traditional tune.

A song for the Flower Festival, which is held in Urizen in the Spring. It is a time for the citizens of Urizen to comment and receive comment on their Virtues from other Urizeni citizens. It can also be a time for expressing feelings of love or attraction to others, or letting other citizens know that, as busy as one may be in search of Arete, one would like to share that search with someone else.

<song>
I will make you brooches and flowers for your delight,
Of birdsong at morning and star-shine at night,
I will make a purpose, fit for you and me,
Of working together, and so all may see.

I hope you will Prosper, with wealth that you may share,
So yellow’s one flower that I’d have you wear,
With Wisdom you will find the path that suits you best,
And so I would place a white bloom upon your breast.

To take action takes Courage, so I’d deck you out in red,
And with pink to take Pride in what’s done and said,
I’d never want a coward to work beside of me,
I’ll always take Pride in those I keep close to me.

We should all be Loyal, so I’ll make a bloom of blue,
When those vows are spoken may we keep them true.
I’d have you see the danger before the danger’s here,
For Vigilance green is the colour we wear.

The purple of Ambition I’ll give to drive you on,
May our works remain long after we’re gone,
Now bound up in ribbons, this gift I give to you,
Now give me an answer before this song is through.

</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Lucia's Song

2016-02-26T12:38:15Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Words and tune by Claire Sheridan. Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach in Proud memory of Lucia Cascade. <song> Part I Light up the Spires, Light up the night, Come see t..."

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan.

Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach in Proud memory of Lucia Cascade.

<song>
Part I

Light up the Spires,
Light up the night,
Come see the stars’
Silver light;

Reach out your fingers,
Reach out your voice,
Mages of music,
Rejoice.

Part II

Cascade of stars
Silver-blue glow:

Strike, strum, call, chant
Let it flow.

Part III

Light up the Spires,
Light up the night,
Come see the starlight;

Reach out your fingers,
Reach out your voice,
Mages of music rejoice.
</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Urizen Memorial Song

2015-03-29T18:53:39Z

ClaireS:

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/memorial-part-2 tune]
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/9/91/Memorial_Song_actual.pdf]

<song>

We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.
We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.

Immortal spirits, through virtues we try,
To make the most of each of our lives.
To return from the Labyrinth enriched and enlightened,
Beginning again to learn and to strive.

We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.
We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.

The Labyrinth will take us, our own time will come,
To walk for a while away from the sun,
While on the Way our path only moves forward,
Mourn not the soul that is sure to return.

We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.
We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.

Where there is darkness, we will make light,
We will lead others on the path that is right,
Though the price may seem high, life is never lost,
When given in earnest, here in our sight.

We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.
We are all human, our spirits live on,
Though these vessels who were our companions are gone.

Follow the Paragons, follow the Way,
Follow your loved ones into the fray,
Each day is a battle for control of the self,
We will triumph ourselves over death one day.

</song>

Edit the categories appropriately. This is important.
[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

Light Festival Song

2015-03-29T18:52:38Z

ClaireS: Created page with "Category: Music Category: Urizen Category: Urizen Music Words by Claire Sheridan, tune by Claire Sheridan and Aneurin Redman-White. [https://soundcloud.com/herec..."

[[Category: Music]]
[[Category: Urizen]]
[[Category: Urizen Music]]

Words by Claire Sheridan, tune by Claire Sheridan and Aneurin Redman-White. [https://soundcloud.com/herecosyouare-1/light-festival-song] recording

Some rediscovered lyrics arranged by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach and Eudaemon of Halcyon Spire for the Light Festival YE379

<song>
Fear not the darkness,
We will bring light,
Push back the shadows,
See them flee before us.

Bright lamps and candle-flame,
We will bring light,
Our own stars to guide us,
Lighting all before us.

Lightstones of the mountains,
We will bring light,
There need be no darkness,
Light The Way before us.

Guardians of the Empire,
We will bring light,
Push back our enemies,
See them flee before us.

Fear not the darkness,
We will bring light,
Push back the shadows,
See them flee before us.
</song>

Speak of Your Love

2015-03-29T18:52:07Z

ClaireS:

Words and tune by Claire Sheridan.

Written by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach.
Manuscript by Aneurin Redman-White [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/mediawiki-public/images/5/56/Speak_Of_Your_Love_actual.pdf]

<song>
O Urizen of lofty Spires
Is not averse to passion’s fires
But if you’re always reading books
None will see your meaningful looks,

O Urizen of snow-capped peaks
Where one thinks well before one speaks
If one does not speak at all
It’s no surprise your love won’t fall.

So speak of your love,
Speak of it truly,
Speak of your love
Before you go;
Speak of your love
This morning, this evening,
Speak of your love
Or they’ll never know.

O Wintermark of ice and snow,
Where brave and bold a-hunting go,
If you stay tight within your furs
You’ll be left to fret and curse.
O Varushka, of the wood and wild,
Huddled snug around your fires,
To keep your heart locked up so tight,
May leave you lonely in the night,
So speak…

O Orcish tribes, with eyes aflame,
Fighting for the Empire’s name,
Who very frankly speak your mind –
Be sure you treat your love in kind,

O Navarr of the forest Trod,
Nimble scouts all leather-shod,
If you hide too long amid the trees
There’ll be none left for you to please.
So speak...

O Highguard, of the tall, proud towers,
Who’d walk around in mail for hours,
Done up so tightly in that skin,
How do you let a lover in?
O Freeborn of the ship and sail,
Who threw aside their cousins’ veils,
Take care, don’t set your price too high
Or lovers, too, will surely fly!
So speak…

O Marchers of the bill and block,
Such energetic, ruddy stock,
But with so much upon your plate
Will you speak before it’s too late?
O Dawn of ballad and fine verse,
Perhaps to speak too much is worse,
For giving them too much to heed
You might not make it to the deed!
So speak…

O Leaguers, with your smashing tights
And cities more alive at night,
To spend your evenings counting coins
Will do no service to your loins!

O people, please, hear my request,
Though much of this is done in jest,
If you’d not be alone this night
Communicate to set it right.
So speak…
.
</song>

[[Category:Urizen Music]]
[[Category:Urizen]]
[[Category:Music]]

File:Speak Of Your Love actual.pdf

2015-03-29T16:42:39Z

ClaireS: Manuscript for "Speak of your Love" by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach

Manuscript for "Speak of your Love" by Nicassia of Phoenix Reach

File:Memorial Song actual.pdf

2015-03-29T16:39:39Z

ClaireS: Manuscript for the memorial song of the Nation of Urizen.

Manuscript for the memorial song of the Nation of Urizen.