Three keys - Revision history

Twiggy at 02:30, 22 January 2026

2026-01-22T02:30:36Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:30, 22 January 2026
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	During the Autumn Equinox, as a consequence of the [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths\|potent enchantment laid across the Empire]], the [[Zakalwe\|General of Day]] [[Hierarchs of sea and sky#Zakalwe\|offered three boons]]. The Empire chose to accept all three of those gifts.		During the Autumn Equinox, as a consequence of the [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths\|potent enchantment laid across the Empire]], the [[Zakalwe\|General of Day]] [[Hierarchs of sea and sky#Zakalwe\|offered three boons]]. The Empire chose to accept all three of those gifts.

	The first boon was an invitation to the [[Imperial Warcaster]] and the [[Warmage]] to each select an [[Imperial army]]. With the permission of the [[general]], Zakalwe would send heralds to travel with that army, observing it in action and assessing its strengths and weaknesses before presenting a proposal as to a way that army [[Hierarchs of sea and sky#The Key of Focus\|might be honed]]. The armies selected were the [[Bloodcloaks]] and the [[Golden Sun]], and Zakalwe sent heralds to fight alongside them during their campaigns [[Against_the_Jotun#Fire\|against the Jotun]] in [[Skallahn]] and [[Ripples_and_shadows#Murderdale_and_Eastward\|against the Druj]] in [[the Barrens]]. They have duly proposed ways to hone these armies - to change their special quality to [[#Honing the Bloodcloaks\|Woundbinder]] and [[#Focusing the Golden Sun\|Golden Juggernaut]] respectively.		The first boon was an invitation to the [[Imperial Warcaster]] and the [[Warmage]] to each select an [[Army\|Imperial army]]. With the permission of the [[general]], Zakalwe would send heralds to travel with that army, observing it in action and assessing its strengths and weaknesses before presenting a proposal as to a way that army [[Hierarchs of sea and sky#The Key of Focus\|might be honed]]. The armies selected were the [[Bloodcloaks]] and the [[Golden Sun]], and Zakalwe sent heralds to fight alongside them during their campaigns [[Against_the_Jotun#Fire\|against the Jotun]] in [[Skallahn]] and [[Ripples_and_shadows#Murderdale_and_Eastward\|against the Druj]] in [[the Barrens]]. They have duly proposed ways to hone these armies - to change their special quality to [[#Honing the Bloodcloaks\|Woundbinder]] and [[#Focusing the Golden Sun\|Golden Juggernaut]] respectively.

	The second boon was a proposal to work with the [[Rod and Shield]] to identify [[opportunity\|opportunities]] to enhance existing [[fortification\|fortifications]], and perhaps locate places where new defences might be prepared. This has led to several more proposals concerning the [[#The Walls of Meade\|city of Meade]] and the [[#The Third Pie\|town of Sarcombe]] in [[the Marches]], [[#Raising the Seawall\|Reumah's Rest]] in [[Necropolis]], the [[#The Eastern Spires\|Spires of Dusk]] in [[the Barrens]], and the flat, defenceless lands of [[#The Water Tower\|Segura in the Brass Coast]].		The second boon was a proposal to work with the [[Rod and Shield]] to identify [[opportunity\|opportunities]] to enhance existing [[fortification\|fortifications]], and perhaps locate places where new defences might be prepared. This has led to several more proposals concerning the [[#The Walls of Meade\|city of Meade]] and the [[#The Third Pie\|town of Sarcombe]] in [[the Marches]], [[#Raising the Seawall\|Reumah's Rest]] in [[Necropolis]], the [[#The Eastern Spires\|Spires of Dusk]] in [[the Barrens]], and the flat, defenceless lands of [[#The Water Tower\|Segura in the Brass Coast]].

Twiggy at 02:25, 22 January 2026

2026-01-22T02:25:18Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:25, 22 January 2026
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	==Focusing the Golden Sun==		==Focusing the Golden Sun==
	The Golden Sun are the oldest of Dawn's four armies. For many they exemplify the nation; proud knights in heavy harness with swords and shields, always ready to fight. On the battlefield, they are like [[Army qualities#Resilient\|mobile dreadnaughts]], shrugging off blows that would down anyone else, pressing through to where the fighting is fiercest and laying their enemies low. For centuries they enjoyed a friendly rivalry with the [[Hounds of Glory]]; now that the army is no more they fiercely protect their reputation and their sacrifice. In recent years, inspired by the army's victories and urged to seek glory through service to Dawn, thousands more yeofolk requested to join the Dawnish armies and the Golden Sun [[Swords_and_sorcery#Golden_Sun\|was their first choice]]. As a consequence the Golden Sun became the first [[~~Imperial_army~~#Enlargement\|large]] army in Dawnish history.		The Golden Sun are the oldest of Dawn's four armies. For many they exemplify the nation; proud knights in heavy harness with swords and shields, always ready to fight. On the battlefield, they are like [[Army qualities#Resilient\|mobile dreadnaughts]], shrugging off blows that would down anyone else, pressing through to where the fighting is fiercest and laying their enemies low. For centuries they enjoyed a friendly rivalry with the [[Hounds of Glory]]; now that the army is no more they fiercely protect their reputation and their sacrifice. In recent years, inspired by the army's victories and urged to seek glory through service to Dawn, thousands more yeofolk requested to join the Dawnish armies and the Golden Sun [[Swords_and_sorcery#Golden_Sun\|was their first choice]]. As a consequence the Golden Sun became the first [[Army\|#Enlargement\|large]] army in Dawnish history.

	Ketos, Polemarch-Quartermaster of Zakalwe, observes that the Golden Sun – nobles and yeofolk alike – are often significantly better armed-and-armoured than many of their allies. The yeofolk who are drawn to the army are often veterans who are re-enlisting for the second or third time and are often more experienced than the noble knights in the realities of warfare – the dull logistics that allow an army to operate as opposed to the moment-to-moment cut a thrust of glorious battle. The herald also observed that since the sacrifice of the [[Hounds of Glory]], the traditional rivalry between the two armies has metamorphosed into something else. There are few people in the Empire more keen to commemorate the Hounds, and to defend their good name, than the soldiers of the Golden Sun.		Ketos, Polemarch-Quartermaster of Zakalwe, observes that the Golden Sun – nobles and yeofolk alike – are often significantly better armed-and-armoured than many of their allies. The yeofolk who are drawn to the army are often veterans who are re-enlisting for the second or third time and are often more experienced than the noble knights in the realities of warfare – the dull logistics that allow an army to operate as opposed to the moment-to-moment cut a thrust of glorious battle. The herald also observed that since the sacrifice of the [[Hounds of Glory]], the traditional rivalry between the two armies has metamorphosed into something else. There are few people in the Empire more keen to commemorate the Hounds, and to defend their good name, than the soldiers of the Golden Sun.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

2026-01-15T16:49:40Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:49, 15 January 2026
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	* '''In addition to the promised boon, Zakalwe has offered to enhance magic that hones the skills of soldiers'''		* '''In addition to the promised boon, Zakalwe has offered to enhance magic that hones the skills of soldiers'''
	* '''It is now illegal to perform [[Swords in the Noonday Sun]] and [[Loosen the Shackles]]'''		* '''It is now illegal to perform [[Swords in the Noonday Sun]] and [[Loosen the Shackles]]'''
	Finally, the Master Strategist requested that the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]] consider placing an [[Interdiction]] on the magical practice of enchanting entire armies in such a way that their soldiers become prone to savagery. The recent enchantment on the [[Fire of the South]] would be an example of the kind of thing he is talking about, as might the Night magic used to grant the Navarr armies murderous fervour during a recent campaign in Kahraman. The eternal believes that these powers are not good for the soldiers subjected to them, and reflect a commitment to bloodshed rather than victory.		Finally, the Master Strategist requested that the [[Conclave]] consider placing an [[Interdiction]] on the magical practice of enchanting entire armies in such a way that their soldiers become prone to savagery. The recent enchantment on the [[Fire of the South]] would be an example of the kind of thing he is talking about, as might the Night magic used to grant the Navarr armies murderous fervour during a recent campaign in Kahraman. The eternal believes that these powers are not good for the soldiers subjected to them, and reflect a commitment to bloodshed rather than victory.

	During the Autumn Equinox, '''Ashborn Trosk''' [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Interdiction_:_Savagery_of_Armies\|raised such a declaration]] on behalf of the [[Celestial Arch]]. The Conclave agreed, interdicting the practice. In return Zakalwe committed to providing the [[Imperial Warcaster]] with three of his crystalline tokens each season, one-use boons that make it easier to perform [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]] and [[Carve the Crystal Guardian]]. It has also gone some way toward encouraging Zakalwe that he may not be entirely mistaken in his belief that the Empire understands that the ends do not always justify the means.		During the Autumn Equinox, '''Ashborn Trosk''' [[385YE_Autumn_Equinox_Conclave_sessions#Interdiction_:_Savagery_of_Armies\|raised such a declaration]] on behalf of the [[Celestial Arch]]. The Conclave agreed, interdicting the practice. In return Zakalwe committed to providing the [[Imperial Warcaster]] with three of his crystalline tokens each season, one-use boons that make it easier to perform [[Clarity of the Master Strategist]] and [[Carve the Crystal Guardian]]. It has also gone some way toward encouraging Zakalwe that he may not be entirely mistaken in his belief that the Empire understands that the ends do not always justify the means.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

2026-01-15T14:48:29Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

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	==Honing the Bloodcloaks==		==Honing the Bloodcloaks==
	*'''Delphysius the Polemarch of Strategy offers an option on how to improve the Bloodcloaks		*'''Delphysius the Polemarch of Strategy offers an option on how to improve the Bloodcloaks
	The crimson mantles worn by the [[Bloodcloaks]] are a byword for the [[heroism]] inherent in the path of the [[grimnir]]. Almost a century ago, the army was destroyed during a disastrous retreat from [[Otkodov]] in the reign of [[Empress Brannan]], and though their skein was not forgotten it was only recently their red banners were raised again. Despite [[Raise_Wintermark_army\|initial opposition]] from the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate]], the army was finally [[Raise_Wintermark_army_II\|reformed]] during Summer 382YE.		The crimson mantles worn by the [[Bloodcloaks]] are a byword for the [[heroism]] inherent in the path of the [[grimnir]]. Almost a century ago, the army was destroyed during a disastrous retreat from [[Otkodov]] in the reign of [[Empress Brannan]], and though their skein was not forgotten it was only recently their red banners were raised again. Despite [[Raise_Wintermark_army\|initial opposition]] from the [[Senate]], the army was finally [[Raise_Wintermark_army_II\|reformed]] during Summer 382YE.

	Delphysius, Polemarch of Strategy, observes that the Bloodcloaks enshrines the philosophy of the grimnir; battlefield healers who do not themselves fight but focus on preserving the lives of their peers. Battlefield healers are a valuable resource, obviously, their Courage is obvious. Yet the army only really comes into its own in a defensive context. Delphysius opines that this is because too many of the Bloodcloaks resources are needed to protect the healers, meaning they tend to place them behind the lines rather than at the forefront of the fighting. Again, understandable, but it limits what the army can achieve.		Delphysius, Polemarch of Strategy, observes that the Bloodcloaks enshrines the philosophy of the grimnir; battlefield healers who do not themselves fight but focus on preserving the lives of their peers. Battlefield healers are a valuable resource, obviously, their Courage is obvious. Yet the army only really comes into its own in a defensive context. Delphysius opines that this is because too many of the Bloodcloaks resources are needed to protect the healers, meaning they tend to place them behind the lines rather than at the forefront of the fighting. Again, understandable, but it limits what the army can achieve.

Twiggy at 13:53, 24 September 2025

2025-09-24T13:53:49Z

Twiggy at 18:08, 14 July 2025

2025-07-14T18:08:26Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:08, 14 July 2025
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	Unfortunately while it is well positioned to protect against a direct assault on the Necropolis, it is nowhere near as effective at protecting [[Necropolis#Longbeach\|Longbeach]] and the trade hub of ''Crown's Quay'' to the west, or the beaches of [[Necropolis#Sanctuary Sand\|Sanctuary Sand]] where the first Highborn ships reached the shores of their new world. The Grendel could establish a beach head with comparative ease – the fortification would make it a more difficult proposition but they would not actually take any losses from the fortification until after they had secured the beaches.		Unfortunately while it is well positioned to protect against a direct assault on the Necropolis, it is nowhere near as effective at protecting [[Necropolis#Longbeach\|Longbeach]] and the trade hub of ''Crown's Quay'' to the west, or the beaches of [[Necropolis#Sanctuary Sand\|Sanctuary Sand]] where the first Highborn ships reached the shores of their new world. The Grendel could establish a beach head with comparative ease – the fortification would make it a more difficult proposition but they would not actually take any losses from the fortification until after they had secured the beaches.

	The heralds of Zakalwe propose to change this situation with a program of expansions for Reumah's Rest, greatly building up its ~~defenses~~, coupled with the establishment of sea walls, watchtowers, bulwarks, and seabells along the entire coast of Necropolis overseen by the garrison. The project is quite white-granite intensive, as they wish to preserve the beauty of the original fortification – something that takes a few members of the Rod and Shield by surprise but they are quite adamant.		The heralds of Zakalwe propose to change this situation with a program of expansions for Reumah's Rest, greatly building up its defences, coupled with the establishment of sea walls, watchtowers, bulwarks, and seabells along the entire coast of Necropolis overseen by the garrison. The project is quite white-granite intensive, as they wish to preserve the beauty of the original fortification – something that takes a few members of the Rod and Shield by surprise but they are quite adamant.

	Their proposal requires 120 wains of white granite, 30 wains of mithril, and 450 crowns. It would take a year. At the end of that time, Reumah's Rest would be a rank three fortification but crucially it would also protect Longbeach and Sanctuary Sand as if it were in that region, if they were attacked from the sea, for instance by a force involved in a [[Navy_orders#Shore_Offensive\|Shore Offensive]]. That means its effective strength would be doubled to resist against an attack from the sea on the two coastal regions.		Their proposal requires 120 wains of white granite, 30 wains of mithril, and 450 crowns. It would take a year. At the end of that time, Reumah's Rest would be a rank three fortification but crucially it would also protect Longbeach and Sanctuary Sand as if it were in that region, if they were attacked from the sea, for instance by a force involved in a [[Navy_orders#Shore_Offensive\|Shore Offensive]]. That means its effective strength would be doubled to resist against an attack from the sea on the two coastal regions.

Hailmur: /* The Walls of Meade */

2024-06-27T18:40:17Z

The Walls of Meade

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:40, 27 June 2024
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	<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 65 white granite and 195 crowns</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Cost:''' 65 white granite and 195 crowns</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Special:''' Costs 95 crowns less if named after Senator Bridget Talbot</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Special:''' Costs 95 crowns less if named after Senator Bridget Talbot</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Fortifies Meade and creates the title of ''~~Alder~~ of Meade''</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Effect:''' Fortifies Meade and creates the title of ''Merchant of Meade''</td></tr>
	</table>		</table>
	<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''~~Alder~~ of Meade'''</tr>		<table class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"><tr><td style="background-color: LightGreen;">'''Merchant of Meade'''</tr>
	<tr><td>'''Type:''' Marches National</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Type:''' Marches National</td></tr>
	<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' [[Tally of the Votes]]</td></tr>		<tr><td>'''Appointment:''' [[Tally of the Votes]]</td></tr>
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	The plans require 65 wains of white granite and 195 crowns in labour, but thanks to the work already done, would take only six months to complete. Once finished, ''Bridget's Walk'' would be a rank one fortification. There is support for the project among many [[alders]] of the city. They have proposed that the fortification be called ''Bridget's Walk'' in recognition of the contribution made by one of the most popular Senators of Mitwold in recent times (in Meade at least). Provided it is, they'll contribute almost half the money needed to build the fortification reducing the cost to 100 crowns, provided the work is begun in the next year.		The plans require 65 wains of white granite and 195 crowns in labour, but thanks to the work already done, would take only six months to complete. Once finished, ''Bridget's Walk'' would be a rank one fortification. There is support for the project among many [[alders]] of the city. They have proposed that the fortification be called ''Bridget's Walk'' in recognition of the contribution made by one of the most popular Senators of Mitwold in recent times (in Meade at least). Provided it is, they'll contribute almost half the money needed to build the fortification reducing the cost to 100 crowns, provided the work is begun in the next year.

	The increased security offered by the fortified port, coupled with the opportunity to hire mercenary ships to protect trading vessels operating from the city, would encourage traders from Faraden to send their own goods back to sell to the people of Meade. The alders, who would be purchasing most of the trade goods, have suggested that someone be appointed to oversee the trade. They suggest that a title be created, ''~~Alder~~ of Meade'' who would receive guaranteed rates on the purchase of metals and fine Caitun swords, provided they were an alder themselves and the title had the responsibility to represent the interests of not just Meade but all market towns of Mitwold.		The increased security offered by the fortified port, coupled with the opportunity to hire mercenary ships to protect trading vessels operating from the city, would encourage traders from Faraden to send their own goods back to sell to the people of Meade. The alders, who would be purchasing most of the trade goods, have suggested that someone be appointed to oversee the trade. They suggest that a title be created, ''Merchant of Meade'' who would receive guaranteed rates on the purchase of metals and fine Caitun swords, provided they were an alder themselves and the title had the responsibility to represent the interests of not just Meade but all market towns of Mitwold.

	<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">		<div style="width: 400px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;">

Hailmur: /* Resolution */

2024-06-27T18:39:01Z

Resolution

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:39, 27 June 2024
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	==Resolution==		==Resolution==
	The Imperial Senate voted to [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_Spires_of_Dusk\|Amend the Spires of Dusk]] during the Spring Equinox 386YE. The fortification was remodelled over the season to remove [[Druj]] elements and made it a monument to the sacrifice paid by the [[Hounds of Glory]]. Following the Spring Equinox 386YE '''Lofyn Blood-cloak''', general of the [[Bloodcloaks]], called on the army to look to the role of the scildan and provided the mithril and weirwood necessary to [[#Honing_the_Bloodcloaks\|hone the Bloodcloaks]].		The Imperial Senate voted to [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_Spires_of_Dusk\|Amend the Spires of Dusk]] during the Spring Equinox 386YE. The fortification was remodelled over the season to remove [[Druj]] elements and made it a monument to the sacrifice paid by the [[Hounds of Glory]].

			Following the Spring Equinox 386YE '''Lofyn Blood-cloak''', general of the [[Bloodcloaks]], called on the army to look to the role of the scildan and provided the mithril and weirwood necessary to [[#Honing_the_Bloodcloaks\|hone the Bloodcloaks]].

Hailmur: /* The Key of Commitment */

2024-06-27T18:38:48Z

The Key of Commitment

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:38, 27 June 2024
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	The only exception is that Zakalwe will ''not'' extend this benefit for covens from [[Varushka]], although his heralds are reticent to say precisely why this restriction is in place.		The only exception is that Zakalwe will ''not'' extend this benefit for covens from [[Varushka]], although his heralds are reticent to say precisely why this restriction is in place.

			==Resolution==
			The Imperial Senate voted to [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_Spires_of_Dusk\|Amend the Spires of Dusk]] during the Spring Equinox 386YE. The fortification was remodelled over the season to remove [[Druj]] elements and made it a monument to the sacrifice paid by the [[Hounds of Glory]]. Following the Spring Equinox 386YE '''Lofyn Blood-cloak''', general of the [[Bloodcloaks]], called on the army to look to the role of the scildan and provided the mithril and weirwood necessary to [[#Honing_the_Bloodcloaks\|hone the Bloodcloaks]].

Hailmur: /* Making the Change */

2024-06-27T18:24:27Z

Making the Change

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:24, 27 June 2024
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	* '''Upgrading the army requires 50 wains of mithril and 100 ingots of orichalcum'''		* '''Upgrading the army requires 50 wains of mithril and 100 ingots of orichalcum'''
	* '''The general of the army must submit an appropriately worded order and have the materials in their inventory'''		* '''The general of the army must submit an appropriately worded order and have the materials in their inventory'''
	* '''This opportunity is available ~~for~~ the ~~next year~~'''		* '''This opportunity is available until the start of the Winter Solstice 386YE'''
	Putting Ketos' proposals into effect will require some investment. It will take 50 wains of mithril and 100 ingots of orichalcum to equip the yeofolk with fine building tools, and provide sungold armour to the knights in support of more mobile tactics.		Putting Ketos' proposals into effect will require some investment. It will take 50 wains of mithril and 100 ingots of orichalcum to equip the yeofolk with fine building tools, and provide sungold armour to the knights in support of more mobile tactics.

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:30, 22 January 2026
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	During the Autumn Equinox, as a consequence of the [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths\|potent enchantment laid across the Empire]], the [[Zakalwe\|General of Day]] [[Hierarchs of sea and sky#Zakalwe\|offered three boons]]. The Empire chose to accept all three of those gifts.		During the Autumn Equinox, as a consequence of the [[Bright Eyes Gleam in the Depths\|potent enchantment laid across the Empire]], the [[Zakalwe\|General of Day]] [[Hierarchs of sea and sky#Zakalwe\|offered three boons]]. The Empire chose to accept all three of those gifts.

	The first boon was an invitation to the [[Imperial Warcaster]] and the [[Warmage]] to each select an [[Imperial army]]. With the permission of the [[general]], Zakalwe would send heralds to travel with that army, observing it in action and assessing its strengths and weaknesses before presenting a proposal as to a way that army [[Hierarchs of sea and sky#The Key of Focus\|might be honed]]. The armies selected were the [[Bloodcloaks]] and the [[Golden Sun]], and Zakalwe sent heralds to fight alongside them during their campaigns [[Against_the_Jotun#Fire\|against the Jotun]] in [[Skallahn]] and [[Ripples_and_shadows#Murderdale_and_Eastward\|against the Druj]] in [[the Barrens]]. They have duly proposed ways to hone these armies - to change their special quality to [[#Honing the Bloodcloaks\|Woundbinder]] and [[#Focusing the Golden Sun\|Golden Juggernaut]] respectively.		The first boon was an invitation to the [[Imperial Warcaster]] and the [[Warmage]] to each select an [[Army\|Imperial army]]. With the permission of the [[general]], Zakalwe would send heralds to travel with that army, observing it in action and assessing its strengths and weaknesses before presenting a proposal as to a way that army [[Hierarchs of sea and sky#The Key of Focus\|might be honed]]. The armies selected were the [[Bloodcloaks]] and the [[Golden Sun]], and Zakalwe sent heralds to fight alongside them during their campaigns [[Against_the_Jotun#Fire\|against the Jotun]] in [[Skallahn]] and [[Ripples_and_shadows#Murderdale_and_Eastward\|against the Druj]] in [[the Barrens]]. They have duly proposed ways to hone these armies - to change their special quality to [[#Honing the Bloodcloaks\|Woundbinder]] and [[#Focusing the Golden Sun\|Golden Juggernaut]] respectively.

	The second boon was a proposal to work with the [[Rod and Shield]] to identify [[opportunity\|opportunities]] to enhance existing [[fortification\|fortifications]], and perhaps locate places where new defences might be prepared. This has led to several more proposals concerning the [[#The Walls of Meade\|city of Meade]] and the [[#The Third Pie\|town of Sarcombe]] in [[the Marches]], [[#Raising the Seawall\|Reumah's Rest]] in [[Necropolis]], the [[#The Eastern Spires\|Spires of Dusk]] in [[the Barrens]], and the flat, defenceless lands of [[#The Water Tower\|Segura in the Brass Coast]].		The second boon was a proposal to work with the [[Rod and Shield]] to identify [[opportunity\|opportunities]] to enhance existing [[fortification\|fortifications]], and perhaps locate places where new defences might be prepared. This has led to several more proposals concerning the [[#The Walls of Meade\|city of Meade]] and the [[#The Third Pie\|town of Sarcombe]] in [[the Marches]], [[#Raising the Seawall\|Reumah's Rest]] in [[Necropolis]], the [[#The Eastern Spires\|Spires of Dusk]] in [[the Barrens]], and the flat, defenceless lands of [[#The Water Tower\|Segura in the Brass Coast]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:53, 24 September 2025
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	Delphysius, Polemarch of Strategy, observes that the Bloodcloaks enshrines the philosophy of the grimnir; battlefield healers who do not themselves fight but focus on preserving the lives of their peers. Battlefield healers are a valuable resource, obviously, their Courage is obvious. Yet the army only really comes into its own in a defensive context. Delphysius opines that this is because too many of the Bloodcloaks resources are needed to protect the healers, meaning they tend to place them behind the lines rather than at the forefront of the fighting. Again, understandable, but it limits what the army can achieve.		Delphysius, Polemarch of Strategy, observes that the Bloodcloaks enshrines the philosophy of the grimnir; battlefield healers who do not themselves fight but focus on preserving the lives of their peers. Battlefield healers are a valuable resource, obviously, their Courage is obvious. Yet the army only really comes into its own in a defensive context. Delphysius opines that this is because too many of the Bloodcloaks resources are needed to protect the healers, meaning they tend to place them behind the lines rather than at the forefront of the fighting. Again, understandable, but it limits what the army can achieve.

	The Polemarch presents a proposal to train and equip warriors whose entire purpose is to protect the healers, allowing them to venture into more dangerous areas. It builds on an old near-forgotten Wintermark tradition of ~~scildan~~ – a warrior who would carry a shield to protect a thane, banner-bearer or grimnir. Each healer in the Bloodcloaks would be accompanied by a warrior ready to give their lives if need be to ensure their charge is able to work their healing arts without interruption. Where possible, these ~~scildan~~ would also be trained healers to support their charge, but this would be secondary to their primary goal of fighting off anyone who tried to harm the healer.		The Polemarch presents a proposal to train and equip warriors whose entire purpose is to protect the healers, allowing them to venture into more dangerous areas. It builds on an old near-forgotten Wintermark tradition of scildran – a warrior who would carry a shield to protect a thane, banner-bearer or grimnir. Each healer in the Bloodcloaks would be accompanied by a warrior ready to give their lives if need be to ensure their charge is able to work their healing arts without interruption. Where possible, these scildran would also be trained healers to support their charge, but this would be secondary to their primary goal of fighting off anyone who tried to harm the healer.

	There's more to the proposal (such as establishing quick set-up and break-down hospital camps, making the procedures for getting injured warriors to a healer more efficient, improving the logistics whereby physicks and apothecaries receive herbs and create potions, expanding training around triage of the injured and the like), but training the ~~scildan~~ forms the backbone of the proposal.		There's more to the proposal (such as establishing quick set-up and break-down hospital camps, making the procedures for getting injured warriors to a healer more efficient, improving the logistics whereby physicks and apothecaries receive herbs and create potions, expanding training around triage of the injured and the like), but training the scildran forms the backbone of the proposal.
	<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=BloodCloak_Colour.png\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 300px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=BloodCloak_Colour.png\|align=right\|width=300}}</div>
	===Making the Change===		===Making the Change===
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	* '''This opportunity is available for the next year'''		* '''This opportunity is available for the next year'''

	Putting Delphysius' proposals into effect will require some investment. It will take 30 wains of mithril and 20 wains of weirwood to train the first of the ~~scildan~~, and put some of the logistical changes (mobile hospitals in particular) into operation.		Putting Delphysius' proposals into effect will require some investment. It will take 30 wains of mithril and 20 wains of weirwood to train the first of the scildran, and put some of the logistical changes (mobile hospitals in particular) into operation.

	The Bloodcloaks quality will permanently change to ''Woundbinder''.		The Bloodcloaks quality will permanently change to ''Woundbinder''.
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	The heralds of Zakalwe, perhaps surprisingly, point out that the ''[[This_land_is_your_land#The_Third_Pie\|Third Pie]]'' as it is occasionally referred to might be a suitable investment for the Senate to make if it wishes to protect Mournwold from Jotun raids. The town already has some reinforcement, and there are some remnants of the original fortress built by the Jotun that might be incorporated into a set of sturdy walls and a radial ring of watchtowers.		The heralds of Zakalwe, perhaps surprisingly, point out that the ''[[This_land_is_your_land#The_Third_Pie\|Third Pie]]'' as it is occasionally referred to might be a suitable investment for the Senate to make if it wishes to protect Mournwold from Jotun raids. The town already has some reinforcement, and there are some remnants of the original fortress built by the Jotun that might be incorporated into a set of sturdy walls and a radial ring of watchtowers.

	The proposal is about more than just a fortress at ~~Sacrombe~~ however. Recent events have shown how vulnerable the Mournwold is to the Jotun. Barely six months ago Jarl Haakon [[Shallows_and_miseries#Choices_.28Conjunction.29\|returned to the territory]] establishing hidden caches in Southmoor leaving the entire Mournwold vulnerable to invasion. It's entirely likely that they might be able to make similar preparations in Green March and perhaps Alderly.		The proposal is about more than just a fortress at Sarcombe however. Recent events have shown how vulnerable the Mournwold is to the Jotun. Barely six months ago Jarl Haakon [[Shallows_and_miseries#Choices_.28Conjunction.29\|returned to the territory]] establishing hidden caches in Southmoor leaving the entire Mournwold vulnerable to invasion. It's entirely likely that they might be able to make similar preparations in Green March and perhaps Alderly.

	Inspired in part by the recent Marcher decision to [[At_the_dog_and_eel_show#Beat_the_Bounds\|support the beaters in protecting the Marches]], and by the establishment of the [[Bailiff of the Downs]], the plans drawn up by the heralds and Marcher members of the Rod and Shield involve establishing a series of towers and hidden sanctuaries around the borders of the Mourn, supported by armouries at the new fortress, Farstrider's Watch, and Landskeeper's Bulwark.		Inspired in part by the recent Marcher decision to [[At_the_dog_and_eel_show#Beat_the_Bounds\|support the beaters in protecting the Marches]], and by the establishment of the [[Bailiff of the Downs]], the plans drawn up by the heralds and Marcher members of the Rod and Shield involve establishing a series of towers and hidden sanctuaries around the borders of the Mourn, supported by armouries at the new fortress, Farstrider's Watch, and Landskeeper's Bulwark.

	The project would require 50 wains of white granite, 30 wains of weirwood, and 240 crowns. Thanks to existing structures and investment in ~~Sacrombe~~, the work would take nine months to complete.		The project would require 50 wains of white granite, 30 wains of weirwood, and 240 crowns. Thanks to existing structures and investment in Sarcombe, the work would take nine months to complete.

	Once complete, the new fortress and the two established ones would support beaters and local folk in scouring the territory for Jotun incursions, ending them where possible, and escalating the problem to someone who can deal with it where they can't. This would remove the ''under threat'' quality from South Moor. In addition, as long as all three fortresses were under Imperial control it would make it impossible for the Jotun to create the “under threat” quality, or a similar that would ease invasion, anywhere in the Mournwold. Any attempt by an attacking army to use an order that makes it easier to create a beachhead – such as those used by the Bear-Who-Swims among others – would be ineffective, defaulting instead to Balanced Attack.		Once complete, the new fortress and the two established ones would support beaters and local folk in scouring the territory for Jotun incursions, ending them where possible, and escalating the problem to someone who can deal with it where they can't. This would remove the ''under threat'' quality from South Moor. In addition, as long as all three fortresses were under Imperial control it would make it impossible for the Jotun to create the “under threat” quality, or a similar that would ease invasion, anywhere in the Mournwold. Any attempt by an attacking army to use an order that makes it easier to create a beachhead – such as those used by the Bear-Who-Swims among others – would be ineffective, defaulting instead to Balanced Attack.
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	===The Last Hound===		===The Last Hound===
	* '''Instead the Senate could remove the Druj defences and remodel the Spires to make it a lasting monument to the Hounds of Glory and Dawnish power in the Barrens'''		* '''Instead the Senate could remove the Druj defences and remodel the Spires to make it a lasting monument to the Hounds of Glory and Dawnish power in the Barrens'''
	Not everyone is persuaded by the idea of enhancing the existing Druj traps and defences that protect the Spires of Dusk. It is true they could be enhanced to make the fortification more deadly for any army attacking the region, but the Spires are where the last of the Hounds of Glory gave their lives to defeat the Druj and conquer the Barrens. Some of the Dawnish yeofolk who are cautiously returning to Dawnguard and Murderdale argue that in light of their extraordinary sacrifice by the ~~Houds~~, something more glorious is appropriate for their final resting place.		Not everyone is persuaded by the idea of enhancing the existing Druj traps and defences that protect the Spires of Dusk. It is true they could be enhanced to make the fortification more deadly for any army attacking the region, but the Spires are where the last of the Hounds of Glory gave their lives to defeat the Druj and conquer the Barrens. Some of the Dawnish yeofolk who are cautiously returning to Dawnguard and Murderdale argue that in light of their extraordinary sacrifice by the Hounds, something more glorious is appropriate for their final resting place.

	To that end, they propose that instead of Zakalwe's proposal, the Empire could use a Senate motion to [[Commission#Altering_an_Existing_Commission\|completely remodel]] the fortification. The ~~Duj~~ traps would be torn out and the last traces of their power swept clean. In their place there would be beautiful gardens, filled with black roses, each incorporating a number of statues to commemorate the Hounds who fell taking the fortification. The name could be changed, after-all dusk is when the sun sets... one troubadour suggests the fortification should be called the "Last Hound".		To that end, they propose that instead of Zakalwe's proposal, the Empire could use a Senate motion to [[Commission#Altering_an_Existing_Commission\|completely remodel]] the fortification. The Druj traps would be torn out and the last traces of their power swept clean. In their place there would be beautiful gardens, filled with black roses, each incorporating a number of statues to commemorate the Hounds who fell taking the fortification. The name could be changed, after-all dusk is when the sun sets... one troubadour suggests the fortification should be called the "Last Hound".

	The work would not be cheap, it would require 50 thrones to remodel the fortification and 10 wains of white granite to create statues to immortalise the Dawnish soldiers who died capturing the fortification. It could be completed in three months however and once done, it would make the fortification into a lasting memorial to the glory of the lost army and a durable symbol of Dawn's determination to rule the Barrens. Removing the last traces of Druj power and replacing them with an imposing symbol of Imperial rule would send a clear signal to the Empire and every sept in the Barrens, that the territory is Dawnish, now and for the future.		The work would not be cheap, it would require 50 thrones to remodel the fortification and 10 wains of white granite to create statues to immortalise the Dawnish soldiers who died capturing the fortification. It could be completed in three months however and once done, it would make the fortification into a lasting memorial to the glory of the lost army and a durable symbol of Dawn's determination to rule the Barrens. Removing the last traces of Druj power and replacing them with an imposing symbol of Imperial rule would send a clear signal to the Empire and every sept in the Barrens, that the territory is Dawnish, now and for the future.
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	The Imperial Senate voted to [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_Spires_of_Dusk\|Amend the Spires of Dusk]] during the Spring Equinox 386YE. The fortification was remodelled over the season to remove [[Druj]] elements and made it a monument to the sacrifice paid by the [[Hounds of Glory]].		The Imperial Senate voted to [[386YE_Spring_Equinox_Senate_sessions#Amend_Spires_of_Dusk\|Amend the Spires of Dusk]] during the Spring Equinox 386YE. The fortification was remodelled over the season to remove [[Druj]] elements and made it a monument to the sacrifice paid by the [[Hounds of Glory]].

	Following the Spring Equinox 386YE '''Lofyn Blood-cloak''', general of the [[Bloodcloaks]], called on the army to look to the role of the ~~scildan~~ and provided the mithril and weirwood necessary to [[#Honing_the_Bloodcloaks\|hone the Bloodcloaks]].		Following the Spring Equinox 386YE '''Lofyn Blood-cloak''', general of the [[Bloodcloaks]], called on the army to look to the role of the scildran and provided the mithril and weirwood necessary to [[#Honing_the_Bloodcloaks\|hone the Bloodcloaks]].