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Domarchia Tis Exochias
To the east of Thynglish Peninsula lies a realm dubbed Exochias, an archipelago of long-forgotten, conquered and isolated colonies heralded and traveled by the Medouian hero of old, Chiam. Many stony reefs, mangrove barriers and sandy bogs line Exochias' southern coast, making navigation out of Casuara challenging for simple vessels.
Nowadays, many fierce and diverse cultures inhabit its islands, building great structures and trading between eachother, but staying outside of Casuara's politics. Deeper within, a militant state of insectoid-like people once at odds with Medouian colonies called the Eusócians makes their home.
One Qalos-adjacent civilization remains on the long, rocky stretch of Dyialia. Dyialia is home to the distant cousins of the Qalos and Medouians, Dyiali, who possess more animalistic features and a wider range of body types compared to their western relatives.
These solidary herders, diviners and artisans live in accordance to the whims and wishes of greater abyssal beings dwelling beneath Dyialia's reefs. Otherworldly inspiration, protection and isolation from the mainland cultivated a relatively peaceful nation, that which tends to its lands and seas, and believes those possessed by the greatness of that which lurks below.
Their structures and homes are larger and more communal than those of the Thynglish, with some villages sharing a single burrow or longhouse. Their de-facto governance and way of life is ordained by unknown and cryptic god-like beings only speculated on in Casuaran tales, but the Dyiali have formed a more intimate relationship with them. They are also known to possess foreign tongue and methods of communication involving gentle tapping on water and a sign language shared with dryland neighbors.
With an attempt to restore old overseas ties and dependencies, the Archons and Mayors of Amphorea and Metereion set out to sail to these long-forgotten lands and preach promises of a glorious, unified future. Will the sea gods accept their offer?
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A Traveler's Respite
Liburne reached Metochi, a Smethyng city built atop geothermal activity within the Agamena Hills on the northern end of the Astares Range, and utilizing its riches to host the third largest Temple-Forge in Thyngland. Many layers and shaped mountain faces make up the composition of this once thriving city.
When the war began, its mayor, Gophis was determined to make things better for the declining region's Smethyng populace. Unfortunately, things took a turn for the worse. With Gophis gone, and the Qalos Loyalists taking control of the city, much of the population is under strict watch, imprisonment or displacement to different regions. Liburne watched as the city she called home for many years became a prison for its families.
The Temple-Forge was decomissioned, and was ordered to melt all of its Birthblades. The memories of the fallen will only be grieved and honored silently. Anyone known to resist or conspire against the Iloutou governance will be dispatched in one way or another.
The Caretaker rested within the underground section of the city, in a family-owned tavern that she frequented many years ago. She comforted the younger blades and helped with delivering goods to different portions of the underground before departing the next day at sunrise.
Liburne knew that her work will likely never be over. But perhaps one day, it will all be worth it, and a day will come when no Smethyng has to suffer.
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Loyalty
"How...", Piktaia clutched her chest, sinking in her chair.
A few moments ago, the Archoness' informants whispered of grave news - Ylia Omonaia was found dead in her estate, with the only evidence pointing to Iloutou tampering. Why? Piktaia couldn't help but recall her absence at the meeting of Archons. She was good friends with her. How could Lusithina have done this? Does that girl not grieve for her own family's loss?
Lusi must be so lost and alone. If I allow her to be misguided, more will die.
The next day, the archoness set out for the Iloutou palace, resolved to mend the situation, and convinced that her words could get through to the young despotess.
"I beg you, please. I must speak to her!"
Her audition was declined, as a secretary assured Piktaia that everything was under control, and that her words will be forwarded to the despotess. A spark of desperation ignited within, and the urge to expose Lusithina built up at the tip of the archoness' tongue - before she realized. At this moment, it dawned on Piktaia - things will not be the same. She has been cast away, and it's likely that everyone working in the despot's palace is at odds with Piktaia, and for all she knows, she could be their next victim.
"I...", she trembled, losing composure, like prey surrounded by a pack of wolves.
"...Please tell the Despotess that the relief effort is proceeding as- as planned, although reaching Metochi with haste will require more logistics and supplies for those providing help."
The secretary silently nodded and thanked Piktaia for the report, and watched her hastily depart. She had to leave. She couldn't break down now. She had to do all in her power to keep those she cares about safe. She can't disturb the order now - for she couldn't bear more blood on her hands.
And so, by light of things, the archoness must endure,
Hopefully, this cursed war ends soon.
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The Valley of Death - 1449, Kairne's War (3/4)
24th Day of Storm, Seleca Valley - A lush river valley, overlooked by the steep mountain citadel of Themis, became a battlefield. The Savrolisk riders of Torh Taielmis joined Kairne's main force and established the fortified base of Kairnis, sustaining itself from the various skirmishes and raids on surrounding villages.
Themis could not hold out for more than a few weeks without direct confrontation, and plans were being drafted while debates on whether to fight or flee echoed across the citadel's corridors. While Nikonemo's army slowly pushed through from the north, hope seemed bleak.
Kouneli devised a plan. The Loyalists seeked to sacrifice one of the villages in an act of diversion and bait, as forces from the mountains and a local armed convoy pincered the Revolutionary forces and forced them within the flamespewer's range and into an uphill battle.
Torh Taielmis commanded a charge against a quick-moving convoy of loyalist reinforcements, which ended up acting as living bait for the regiment. In an effort to save the trapped revolutionary cavalry, most of Torh's division became surrounded by Kouneli's forces. Alarmed, the rest of the Revolutionaries began crossing the Seleca river, leaving behind a sizeable army to guard Kairnis and set up siege weapons to fire at the citadel.
Soon, the entire eastern valley was set aflame. Themis withstood countless shots from its firing ranks. The Savrolisk, although massively outnumbered, tore through the Qalos' fragile flesh with no remorse.
Beneath the citadel, Kouneli fought tooth and nail against a pack of bloodthirsty beasts and their equally determined riders. The Revolutionaries' main forces burned and fell rapidly, with only a small amount of Kouneli's forces holding the line.
When Kairne himself appeared, that line did not last. By his wrath, Qalos heads flew one by one, with a few lucky bodies drifting away in the nearby river of blood. The stage was nearing its final act, as flanks of Rhinokerai riders emerged in a blind frenzy, torches in hand and swaying bowls of oil on the beasts' backs, spilling a trail across their route. They trampled over everyone in their way, and while few fell, the distracted Revolutionary cavalry could not intercept them in time.
The cries of war grew more distant, as the rhinokerai reached their final destination, forming a deadly charge towards the settlement of Kairnis - through the fire and flames that formed, they broke through the wooden palisades and sowed havoc, falling one by one due to resistance from the Revolutionary garrison.
As Kairnis fell, the Revolutionaries became truly surrounded. It was a devastating turn of events, as many warriors routed, fleeing to the mountains. Kairne was left with a handful of his most loyal guard, and decided to retreat. A long, defeated trek back to Achotri awaited them, as the Battle of Seleca Valley marked a miraculous victory for the defenders of Themis and a major turning point in the war.
Nikonemo and Kouneli eventually recouped at the citadel, ready to fortify and cut off the Revolutionaries' stranglehold over northern Thynphalis and the outskirts of Metereion.
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The Great Expansion
The smell of sawdust and sea brine filled the air under Amphelitsi's clouded skies, as its docks bustled with life under a new directive - Hundreds of vessels, large and small, being under construction, maintanance, or anchored down from weary journeys ashore.
A giant, square-rigged flat-hulled ship relying only on wind and wheel rested adjacent to the Theatre-Palace in an appropriately sized drydock - the ship of Admiral Venka Skatakis. Venka is the younger sibling of the Amphorean royal family, descending from the same Medouian blood as the rest of them. They chose life on the seas, wishing to conquer riches and suitable Qalos alike, hunting pirates and other lawless wrongdoers.
In the past years, Amphorea has leveraged Thyngland's political instability and regency to diverge its resources into fitting a large fleet of caravels, merchant ships and warships and preparing resources for long journeys and rapid, efficient construction. The region's Archon, Glyko Skatakis, has committed to expanding Thyngland's borders and treasury through forming external colonies seperate from the privilages of the Despotate, composed of prisoners, those driven by ambition to pioneer these new lands and minor nobles seeking power and riches.
Before the war, major reforms swept across the settlements in Amphorea, increasing taxes on oils, salts and iron and tightening laws surrounding land security and areas riddled with theft. This procured many of the goods needed for Thyngland's expansion, satisfied minor nobles and prosecuted the Smethyng populace - many of which were imprisoned in penal districts for minor offenses through necessity or manipulation.
With this influx of profit, the navigators, astrologers, merchants and cartographers were hired to find new routes across the Gnathonean and Thanatai seas to east and west, as well as survey the scarred lands of Exochias - once home to ancient, often mythologised Qalos colonies fallen many centuries ago to the many threats and wars within.
Some of these colonies seem to have been resettled by migrant tribes and remnants or distant cousins of the Qalos. A policy of trade has been introduced to investigate and measure the land's worth, as diplomats and elite retinues are selected to prepare for an eventual landing.
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The Caretaker's Due
Liburne rode through the arid highlands of Gethena. There was no hesitation in her actions, trusting her steed, Karitas to deliver her to Porpyrea. Liburne rode unbothered across the arid countryside, for she has no enemies. She made several stops in smaller villages, embracing their hospitality and helping with the villagers' morning chores, before heading out once more - hidden in the shadows of the Astares Peaks and then basking in sunlight past noon.
The young caretaker avoided the warrior polis of Aethos out of respect, instead resting by a ridge overlooking the plateau and outlying hills of northern Gethena. She looked towards the stars with her blank and undecipherable gaze, receding into her mind as she haltingly traversed the cosmos. She searched, as her forefathers did. And she searched, as all those who wandered, and yet she could not find her answer. Was she simply meant to endure, as the world does?
Dust gathered up and flew past Liburne, interrupting her introspection with a sense of urgency. There was a commotion within the rocky maze below. She calmed Karitas, mounting him and promptly descending the steep ridge.
Footsteps - hurried and desperate. The young caretaker sought to intervene, charging through crags and ridges, from hill to hill towards the source.
There, she spotted a young, onyx-horned Smethyng clad in a plethora of simple garbs and cloth, worn upon eachother in layers - backed into a canyon's corner. The Smethyng's hair was long, hastily tied halfway up, yet unkempt, with strokes of gray flecking a vibrant auburn. Its horns were broken, with no weapon in sight, yet its visage seemed whole.
Beside it was a smattering of Qalosi figures, all wearing non-identifying gear and wielding simple blades and clubs that reflected the moonlight above. As Liburne laid low, she watched the situation unfold:
"Traitorous cur! Give them back, and we'll spare your life!", barked one of the assailants - swinging their mace threateningly.
The Smethyng shouted, trembling: "No - You'll have to take them from my cold, shattered hands, then.", it did indeed seem to possess something of value: three small and intricate blades, hidden beneath its cloaks. Before Liburne could assess things further, the assailant raised their weapon again.
"Gladly!"
The Smethyng pressed against the harsh canyon rock - trying to shield the blades and itself with its own body. The ruffian Qalos whirled their mace and struck - a crack, and a pained groan - and struck again - crumbling the Smethyng's elbow.
Liburne could seemingly watch no more. Together with Karitas, they leaped down, ramming the attacker and sending them into the wall. In a flash, Liburne stepped between the two sides.
"Leave. At once."
Leave they did not, as a battle broke out between Liburne and seven Qalos assailants. The Caretaker did not lift her blade, for she has no enemies. She endured and dodged, and stood in the face of death with an intense and distant stare. Minutes passed. The Qalos, humiliated by a rusted Smethyng and her goat, became increasingly frustrated and abandoned their fighting spirit for a malice in their eyes. They split up, attacking from all sides - letting many attacks scrape and wear Liburne down, as her attention had to be divided in all directions.
Then, in the heat of combat, and in the corner of her eye, she witnessed a sleight - as Karitas was pushed away, one of the attackers charged at the terrified onyx Smethyng, seeking to crush its skull!
As gently as the breeze, Liburne unsheathed her rusted blade. Within a single step, she cut through the body of whoever was in her way, and sprinted towards the scene - kicking the ground to gain a final bit of leverage and, once in reach, slicing through the Qalos' head without hesitation.
The decapitated body fell flat before Liburne, and the whole canyon fell silent. The remaining Qalos momentarily froze with a reminder of their mortality, discordantly retreating with no heed for eachother.
Liburne did not flinch, for she has no enemies - Only obstacles. Liburne would save the dying land through her impenitent mercy.
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Runes
The Smethyngs are attuned to that which is solid - the unkindled stone which is struck with the progenitors' inscryptions and flares with the same life as the thyng. These stones heighten and augment the varied forces of nature, propagating its cycles by invoking primordial elements and astral signs. These inscryptions, said to be fragments of a formula that once shaped this world, are altered and merged by its most studious and accomplished elders, maddened by the truth that is not meant for mortal minds.
And those deemed the Runecarvers, they wander in search of the truth, which they carve onto the stones and upon which they pray so that those who would rather seek validation of sequence and causality than the proof of continuance, waging war on that which is solid - the kindled stone which is struck with the progenitors' truth and flares with the same life as the world itself - would wander themselves. And the world endures, so that We may wander.
– Fragment of an ancient Smethyng folk tale, as seen in several temple-forges in Thyngland and beyond
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1449, Kairne's War, Greed (2/4)
[It's been a while and I'm still getting back to the swing of things so I'm a bit rusty. Hope you enjoy this nonetheless!]
The bloody tug of war rages on, bringing in hundreds of casualties every day. The siege on Qaleia holds strong as the defenders' supply lines become more sparse.
7th - 13th Day of Storm, Offensive of Charamados - Attempting to stop the push to encircle both Metereion and Gethena, Nikenemo and their Unyielding have focused a considerable throng of soldiers to breach the mountain bastion of Charamados. The army marched through two paths, encountering great resistance and losing a significant amount of comrades to arrows from above in the Scorched Pass. Eventually, the advance broke into all-out combat between both sides in the town's streets. Nikenemo and their elite guard swiftly cut down their greatest warriors, leaving only crumbled statues in their wake. Charamados was retaken.
9th Day of Storm, Sacking of Pletagma - Kaphka continues her warpath, leading her troop straight towards the crossroads town of Pletagma, placed upon a plateau overlooking the nearby seas and designed as a major point throughout the western Thynglish trade routes planning to venture out to sea. The attack was met without much resistance, as the mayor was cut down remorselessly. Pletagma burned, and those that survived the attack either fled or were taken as captives to serve Kaphka's warband. The rest of Habythea was her for the taking, as the twin fortress of Exoqaios stood alone in a sea of blood.
15th Day of Sotrm, Siege of Prosychos - Those loyal to the Despotess still maintained naval dominance in most of Thyngland, confining the rebellion to the harsh mountains. Ankhaema, the fierce strategist, issued a command to attempt to seize the Polidromian island of Prosychos and establish a foothold there. A mix of quinquireme-like flame-spewing ships and sebeco galleys gathered in formation and advanced, intercepting two transport ships and demolishing the small fleet guarding Prosychos with little casualties, capturing some of the usable ships.
16th Day of Storm, Similari Landing - An marine force moves across the bay, hoping to take advantage of the distracted Riman fleet and attacks the sparsely-defended townships of Similari, gaining control over the strategic point that had secured the last remaining supply line to Qaleia.
And on the 24th, a deciding battle breaks out between the armies of Kairne Lapidaris and the garrison at Themis, lead by Kouneli herself... (Stay tuned for Part 3!)
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1449, Kairne's War, an Overview
Southern Thyngland is aflame. The final pieces fall into place to set the stage for the last months of a bloody war. Qaleia, with Galide Poliplei at its head, has been under siege for months, with many of the people left behind before the evacuation starving and its garrison significantly weakened. Surrounded by a mountainous chain held by Kairne's armies, the southern capital is supported by its outwards allies:
Thynphalis, once co-lead by Kairne Lapidaris and Kouneli Aphidisi, is now split between the considerably larger influence of the Smethyng and the northern shore being mostly subsidiary to Qaleia. Their most important temple-citadel, Themis, has been a key location during the war and has stood despite the multiple attempted sieges of Kairne's forces and is where Kouneli currently stands firm.
Gethena, lead by the sun-archoness and leader of the Unyielding, Nikenemo Merkou, who's armies currently stand rank and file across its borders as an unstoppable wall of spears and tall shields, being forced to give up Qatastrophi in a deciding battle early in the war. The walled port of Kolasol has been attempting to wrestle for dominance over the western coast by harassing the settlements of Sophki and Taiemakos, but failing to find any ground.
The eastern province of Rima and the brilliant tactics of its archoness, Ankhaema Thanatou have been successful in fighting back and supplying its allies by helping secure the route through Thynphalis to Qaleia.
Metereion, being mostly a conglomeration of port cities and the large mountains east, inhabited by unwilling and neutral Smethyng communities, has been under constant threat of rebel raids and takeovers, with archon Kotali Krephachai sending most of his troops through the northern roads to supply Rima and left to defend his port cities and the mountain town of Manteio Astares.
Finally, Habythea has suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of Kaphka Allagis, a relentless warrior known to turn foes into crystal with a single stab of their spear. Polidromi burned and fell, with its Island of Prosychos becoming a prison for all the survivors and Habythea's archon, Liphokos Entyphou, left at the mercy of the occupiers, as the rest of Habythea slowly fell to Kaphka.
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A Confrontation
Alyssa rode past the ruined landscapes of Mauphos, clutching the cracked blade of Gophis and trying to avoid the attention of patrols. The only thing that could save her would be the Great Forge of Metochi - where Gophis could be restored.
On the way, she abandoned her trusted rhino, Anro, and took a side path into the Agamena Hills. She sought to spend the night in one of the many uninhabited caves of this region, but was disturbed in her attempt to rest by an unexpected visitor...
Knight Gianis Korimonou was trailing the deserter archon for a while, finally gaining the chance to confront her many miles away from prying eyes. Alyssa of course recognized Gophis' right-hand general, nary able to look at them in the face - for she was the murderer of Gophis. Gianis exclaimed loudly and passionately, with a somewhat mocking tone:
"What do you think you're doing, 'archoness' Alyssa?!"
"I... I wished to return the Metochai ruler's- the Metochai ruler to the Great Forge."
"-You- killed Her, idiota! You-did-this! I should hammer you into this grotto's walls until nothing but unidentifiable goop is left!", Gianis took a few exasperated breaths, gesturing around.
"I know. I'm sorry. I'm just trying to make things right.", Alyssa lowered her head in humiliation, standing somewhat lifeless and mortified before Gianis.
The knight groaned, throwing their hammer on the cold stone floor behind them and approaching Alyssa.
"You absolute bullhead! Look at me when we talk! They'll be searching for everyone entering the temple for her! Do you seriously think they'll just let you in now? You fled together with your damned ex- and your plan was to just get caught again?! Pathetic!"
The Qalos fell silent, clutching the hilt of Gophis' Birthblade tighter. She admitted defeat, breathing in and staring at Gianis solemnly.
"Ugh- Look, I didn't follow you all the way over here to scream at you. I care about her as well, alright?", their voice softened, somewhat emotionally exhausted. "Give me the blade, and for your own safety, go back. She would've wanted you to live."
"I can't."
Gianis tilted their head, puzzled.
"I'll do whatever it takes. Let me help you... Please.", she carefully adjusted her grip on the blade of Gophis, and peacefully extended it out to the knight.
"Huh... Keep it, then. The plan is to hole up, stay hidden in the mountains until this war is over. Find a way to get Gophis back, sooner... or later."
"Come on, there's a shelter up ahead.", they sighed, gesturing out of the cave and leading Alyssa across the rough hillsides, leading up to one of many forgotten valleys of this region, whereupon a rudimentary shack stood.
From then, Alyssa and Gianis worked together to survive, alone and hidden in the world, while slowly gathering information about the ongoing war and trying to maintain Gophis' blade until they can restore her.
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The Chivalrous Messenger
Devoting your life to a cause isn't easy, especially when you've chosen to embrace the rust eating away at your body with each passing day. Liburne, the Caretaker, selflessly helps those in need while serving under Kairne Lapidaris and pursuing the dream of peace and prosperity for both Smethyngs and Qalos.
She and Kairne are in many ways two sides of the same coin, with Liburne being his voice of empathy and the one people of Thyngphalis will flock to as their beloved caretaker. She quests across the lands, bringing justice to those wronged and rebuilding what was lost. In truth, there are many caretakers, but Liburne is their voice and face - especially in time of war, when cleaning up Kairne's mess becomes a top priority.
The two meet in the heat of battle, at a burning wheat field in a village nearby Sophki. As Kairne decapitates yet another soldier from the masses approaching him, Liburne sits on a rock nearby, resting her weary body.
"Lapidaris. You are being too harsh."
"Hah! We're making the mother of all flatbreads, Liburne - can't fret over every kernel!"
"You are being nonsensical."
"Nah, I'm on fire! Both North and South are nearly ours!"
"Perhaps it's time you issued a second formal demand for surrender, Lapidaris?"
"Screw formalities!", he exclaims, spitting on the pile of Qalosi corpses beneath. "These stuck-up FREAKS won't listen to me, no matter what. Not until all of their precious palaces burn to the ground!"
Liburne ponders, with an ever absent-minded expression, dissaproving of Kairne's choice of words.
She eventually pushes herself up, "Very well, I'll be on my way - stay-"
"No, wait. You go."
An odd silence falls upon the two, despite the screams and warcries nearby. "Me?"
"Yeah. Go, and tell the Iliotou kid that we- you -plead- them to surrender, or else both of Thyngland's metropoleis are falling to rubble!"
"...I understand. Very well, I'll be on my way. Stay strong, Lapidaris."
"Yeah, yeah. Be careful on the road, alright?"
"I always am."
Thus, she departed as soon as she spoke - mounting her trusty steed, Karitas, and following the road through Gethena.
"That kid... She's something, alright!", remarks Kairne, seemingly to the enemy he's currently engaged with, just before chopping them open with a swift cut of his axe.
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The Nemoian Resurgence
Thyngland's northern population is largely disconnected from Thyngland's matters, being once part of Nemoia - an ancient kingdom rivaling the southern city states and dominating most of the Thynglish Peninsula at their peak around 670 BO (Before Overturning). The Nemoians are known for being a Smethyng-dominated culture that constructed giant structures throughout history, including stone bridges that spanned wide chasms and ravines and large ancient statues dedicated to powerful rulers. They historically interacted with the northern Otterfolk and western folks of sea and wind, often raiding them in older times and sometimes being raided by latter, while now keeping mostly to themselves and establishing minor trade across the mountains.
Among the most impressive cities in the region is Nemossa, built around the plateauing Alsetha Mountain and the drowned river valleys encompassing it, with a colossal image of Ydres Alsead, the first and only Smethyng Conqueror of Thyngland carved on the mountain's flank, holding the main city's square in one hand and opening a ravine across the mountain with the other, from which the Alsetha River flows. Giant swathes of farmland are distributed among the many surrounding lands, connected by strong bridges and holding many communities of their own.
Today, the Archon of Nemo, Anotaki Askead, acts the de-facto ruler of the Nemoians with his suave attitude and unmatched prowess in combat. He considers the revolutionary Kairne Lapidaris as his sibling and has declared war on the Iliotou loyalists along with them. The rest of the northern archons were quick to follow, with Lothena and Gigara reinforcing their borders and staging a siege on Inios while the somewhat outdated ships of Nemo and Gigara assumed dominance over the northwestern coasts, blockading the way to both key locations in Mauphos and Inios.
With news of Gophis' defeat, the shores of Mauphos and Gethena were raided as troops shipped to Thynphalis to assist Kairne.
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The Silent Despot
Lusithina watched all the death, dirt, and flame in Porpyrea from the windows of the old Iliotou Palace tower, for the first time bereft of her family's solace. She seemed oddly stern about the situation - perhaps drowning away the sadness with her partners' comfort.
Once news reached of the victory in the northern citadel of Avanta, Lusithina called for the present archons to meet her at her estate, as the soldiers were commanded to put out fires and catch any deserters via organized patrols. The former request was unusual, but not uncalled for in such a situation - the young despotess felt safer here, surrounded by loyal attendees rather than the court, where they died. She was also prepared, devising a way to interact with her new subjects.
The meetings proceeded on a one-by-one basis, with each of the three present archons asked to report and speak about whatever they wish to regarding the war, be it their suggestions, opinions or requests. Lusithina would not respond, walking alongside the informant through the estate along a specific route. Once enough has been said, she would thank the archon and dismiss them for the next to come.
The archon of Amphorea, Glyko, arrived first, bearing joyful news of the successful counter-resistance's efforts throughout their journey and within Amphorea. They seemed ecstatic to tell about the victory under Avanta, sending short regards to general Statakles' death and mentioning Alyssa's absence for, stating that she was heavily wounded during combat and had other matters to attend to. Glyko also mentioned the discovery of the new world, suggesting to consider re-establishing the Qalosi colonies, especially with the ample prisoners they might acquire throughout the war - and requesting to approve of sending small fleets of caravels scouting and marking land beyond the western rocky trenches. With that, Glyko was silently dismissed. They seemed to be very eager to talk without prompt, which pleased Lusithina.
Piktaia Katakou, the shining archoness of Mauphos stood up to join the despotess. Piktaia was a fluttered person known for being a good friend of the late despotess Agamena. She reminisced about them, expressing great sadness over Lusithina's loss and awkwardly trailed onto the next subject, uncomfortably realizing she won't get a response. A large part of Mauphos has been devastated, resulting in the loss of two years worth of grapes, dye and flax, among other things. The question of Metochi and the Smethyng communities nearby is also up in the air, with Piktaia pleading for a relief act and trying to amend the situation. She was also concerned for Alyssa, who seems to be currently missing in action. Soon after, the archoness was awkwardly dismissed.
Ylia Omonaia, archoness of Porpyrea, wasn't interested in entertaining Lusithina with a one-sided report, and left the estate before their turn.
#ostrich project#thyngland#worldbuilding#art#reworking the titles of the Thynglish rulers to Despot -> Archon -> Mayor
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The Unyielding
The Unyielding are an elite body of around 8,000 Qalos infantry soldiers currently commissioned by the archoness of Gethena, Nikenemo Merkou, and being historically tied to the warrior polis of Aethos within the region for over a thousand years. It serves in dual capacity as both Gethena's royal guards and its standing army. The Unyielding have played a key role in the colonization and subjugation of the Thynglish Peninsula and in establishing military rivalry between the Smethyng tribes' own forces.
Their ranks are most well known for being clad in steel and coral, posessing distinct helmets with protrusions resembling sunrays and having a wide array of weapons for every occasion. The Unyielding carry the uniquely-shaped Thynglish shields painted with the crest of Thyngland or Gethena.
As the centuries passed, the Unyielding have lost their prominence, being largely overshadowed by the Musikants, Echo Knights and sophisticated military organization and tactics that spread across the country. Despite this, they still practice their traditions and train new members with strict discipline
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No Glory, War in Mauphos 3/3
1st Day of Bloom - 21st Day of Bloom, Gophis' Charge & The Siege of Porpyrea - Gophis' armies rally towards Porpyrea as the fishing town of Porthmaia is swiftly sacked and disregarded as a hasty siege was prepared. Gophis and their troops were running on borrowed time from the distraction caused by the raiders from Saltses and Aksuchori's brave defense. A grand total of 15,500 troops stood on Gophis' side stood against a hastily counted estimate of 9,000 willing defenders, determined to hold out until reinforcements arrived as Lusithina along with most of her council evacuated into the southern area of Porpyrea.
The defenders, lead by Statakles, held out at the ancient northern citadel of Avanta. Flaming boulders rained down upon the city walls and citadel. A miraculous shot struck one of the pillars supporting an ancient temple holding many of the garrison's supplies, resulting in the building's collapse and the death of 200 or so people. Despite this, the Porpyreans continued to defend the citadel. More days passed, as the walls of the city were breached and the citadel's ancient walls crumbled. On the 20th Day of Bloom, a war horn was heard from the distance, signalling the arrival of allied forces from Amphorea and Qionia. As Gophis' army prepared to defend themselves while breaching the citadel, the two armies marched forward, spearheaded by Alyssa Qionis herself. The charge cleared the ash before them, as dozens of Musikants chanted a haunting melody and the Unyielding breached the city in tight formations, with a smaller squad guarding Alyssa's flank nearby.
The citadel was set on fire, and as its ancient walls crumbled and roofs collapsed, many of Porpyrea's defenders fell, including Statakles, who's lungs passed out from the surrounding fire while saving whoever he could. Gophis' troops set themselves up on the remaining walls and inside of taller buildings, attempting to resist the intoxicating fumes and the Musikants' melodies resonating within their helms. When infighting broke out, as a last ditch attempt, Gophis called for a duel between the foe's strongest champion, to at least save her people. The two knew eachother from various past meetings, being seemingly on favourable terms and attending eachothers' feasts with interest - but now must fight to the death, for the sake of their people and themselves.
The two met amidst the burning streets, each covering their faces from the suffocating ash. Both exchanged intimate, solemn gazes.
Alyssa asked a simple question: "Why?"
Gophis scowled.
"Why, indeed. You stand on a side of history doomed to mockery. The despotate hungers, and in time, it will come for you as well, friend."
"You still have the power to change this, Lyssa."
As the expectant crowd drowned any sensible thoughts, the two took deep breaths and engaged in savage combat, striking with wild abandon and unable to look eachother in the eye. Their blades dented against their worn armour, and blood quickly spilled into the muddy street.
Gophis fought with unbridled ferocity, unleashing resonant shouts with each swing of the blade that bound her Smethyng soul. In response, Alyssa stood her ground stalwartly, taking each consecutive impact with increased resolve. Her conflicted thoughts were broken up by the clashing of metal, growing increasingly distance as a feral instinct took over. With a masterful riposte, she bashed her shield into Gophis' exposed flank, knocking her away and proceeding to pelt her with her hooked sword repeatedly.
At that moment, there was no glory - no grace - no love. Only wild beasts, formed and clad to appear as anything more on the outside. A pleading cry was cut short by a ruthless slash to the chest - driving the Malachite Smethyng to its knees. Alyssa had to stop herself from delivering another blow, seeing the battle was over. The onlookers fell silent. The two combatants exchanged a final gaze, with Gophis drawing her final, trembling breath in a sign of relief.
Alyssa threw down her blade and shield, gasping for what felt like the last thrums of air left. She did not feel like herself - another gaping wound opened, not within her body, but her soul.
The siege of Porpyrea was won by its defenders and allies, with Gophis' soldiers either found dead, lost in action or bound in chains. Glyko Skatakis decided to personally visit the despotess, while Alyssa Qionis dissapeared into the ashen mists, absent for both mourning and celebration, with Gophis' bloodied and bent blade curiously following suit.
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The Evening's Tide
A Spring evening's sunlight pierced Mauphos' purple olive trees, under which a joint encampment stood, counting hundreds of tents, carpets and rudimentary shacks meant for a temporary rest before the charge into Porpyrea at dawn. Two renowned archons decide to get some fresh air - Alyssa Qionis and Glyko Skatakis, respectively dictators of Qionia and Amphorea.
Glyko's antlers wriggled contently along with her gestures, living a life of their own, as is not uncommon of an ancestral Medouian. Alyssa presented herself with a stalwart posture at all times, shedding a slight smile of familiarity.
"It's dirty work, isn't it, Alyssa? Many of these valiant Thyni will have to die tomorrow."
"Hopefully we can minimize the losses. What's in it for you?"
"Oh my, I just want this whole ordeal to be over. After all, I have big plans for the despotess' new reign.", Glyko smiled playfully.
"Of course you do."
Alyssa sat upon a nearby rock, her gills adjusting to the incoming breeze.
"Our last census revealed the -disastrous- states of affair of our beloved country. Do you know how much fish and salt makes us these days?-", a short moment passed.
"-Right, and the Thyni clearly aren't cooperating with our mining quotas. The wealth they sit on is immeasurable - it's appaling that the late Agamena didn't take action against our lovely neighbours!"
"...You're smart enough not to poke at the hornet's nest, Glyko. What are you saying right now? You realize the Smethyngs need their materials to survive?"
"Oh, of course! I would never be so cruel towards those who are practically my kin! What I have in mind is something that could satisfy both our kind." She reached within her sleeve's mantle, rolling out a map of white parchment. It seemed to be of foreign origin, and retained some of its salty scent with it.
[Map made by @escarava]
"Gaze upon a new world! The Luceans beat us to it, but there are ripe opportunities beyond this boorish, rocky cape! I have spent years in the archives studying our ancient epics and records - our might came from the vast lands we enriched! Surely, you see that there is no space for us here?", Glyko calmed down after her excited speech, taking a few exasperated and liquid breaths. "I simply suggest to convince the high despotess of this cause, and reclaim our glory across the seas."
"I have- I heard rumours.", Alyssa stops to ponder, clutching her cephallic claws close to her chest. "Now, on first thought I agree, but let's not jump to conclusions. Let's talk, and think this through, alright?"
"Ah, but of course! We shall plan our petition to the despotess someday else, for tomorrow - glory awaits, my dearest friend."
The two exchanged pleasantries and began returning to their respective tents, greeted by their loyal guards and adoring fans amidst the army.
An idea has spread, as Amphorea's dockyards were already set in motion to create better, sturdier ships and stockpiled goods for the journeys ahead.
Amidst a bloody conflict, a new age approaches.
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The 1449 Civil War, Mauphos 2/3
2nd Day of Rise, Siege of Aksuchori - a fortress/mining town on the highlands' edge. After a sizeable amount of Aksuchori's soldiers rode north, the garrison was left with a little over 1,000 dissident forces to push back against an Akronosi army of about 1,600, with the bulk of Qionia's forces destined to arrive in the next few days. The siege consisted of a few deadly skirmishes and was ultimately ineffective against Aksuchori's defenses. However, when an army of 3,000 personally lead by Alyssa Qionis arrived on the other side of the foothills, raining fire over the town, a secondary assault began. The dissidents fought until their last breath, causing hundreds of casualties for both sides of the conflict until around 700 were slaughtered, resulting in their surrender.
7th Day of Rise, Raid on Iphansos - having seized 3 fire ships and 5 galleys, the captors of Saltses were tasked with disrupting the villages south of Porpyrea. A naval battle ensued between a sudden intercepting Porpyrean fleet, resulting in heavy damage to the captured ships and a forced landing on Iphansos' shore, where 600 rebel infantry took the mostly unguarded village hostage and garrisoned there, taking out the meager 80 troops defending it. In the morning, the Porpyrean fleet landed in Inphansos, taking up arms and leading to a bloody battle within the village, resulting in many civilian casualties and a pyrrhic victory for the seamen, who lost most of their crew but managed to rout the raiders. The citizens of Iphansos celebrated this, lauding them, and their captain, Evankulos, as heroes and offering their hospitality.
10th Day of Rise, Assault on Straphoteios - the farming town didn't have much in the ways of defense, but a sizeable garrison of around 2,000 was maintained in order to keep the rebel supply line from Metochi intact. Glyko Skatakis' army, containing 5,000 troops split between several of their generals and around 40 Musikants, marched from the mountains after successful skirmishes near the Agamenai Hills. A battle quickly broke out between the two forces, in which the dissidents suffered severe mental trauma and were compelled to infight. As near 1,000 rebel Smethyngs and Qalosi fell, those sane enough to think for themselves surrendered, seeing the folly of fighting the Musikants. Several Smethyngs were executed in fears of spreading further dissent in the town and the nearby region, and others were taken captive without accounting. This marked a decisive victory for Glyko and the counter-resistance, as the army sought to convene with Alyssa's under Phasilophos and strategize.
Meanwhile, Gophis' main army pushed through the evacuated town of Porthmaia without issue...
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