ABRAXAS MODS (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
abraxasmods) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
abraxasooc2022-09-05 09:56 am
abraxasmods) wrote in abraxasooc2022-09-05 09:56 am
Entry tags:
INTERLUDE: RETALIATION
Interlude - Retaliation
After the chaos that struck Thorne and the Free Cities at the end of August, the situation remains grim throughout the three factions as summer fades into autumn.
Prime Minister Marlo refuses to let go unanswered what she sees as an unprovoked attack from Thorne. In return, the Free Cities has sent an amphibious warship that quickly travels over the desert and across Lake Circinus. A ship of this nature has never been seen before, with many in Thorne anticipating the Free Cities having to travel the long way around to reach their territory.
Caught unawares and with the crown's limited influence in Nott, on SEPTEMBER 8, those in Castle Thorne will awake in the middle of the night to thick smoke filling the sky. The farmlands around the lake north of Nott and south of Thorne, while finishing their harvest, have been set ablaze. Grain stores and crop fields are in smoldering ruins, and many rural homes have been destroyed.
Marlo will claim she has shown more grace and restraint than Thorne demonstrated to the Free Cities: she has only attacked their harvest source - not an entire city full of women and children over groundless assertions. It remains to be seen how much restraint the future continues to hold.
While Thorne has been working to preserve the Castle's stores, this is still a great blow to the people and their livelihoods. It also places a large strain on Borrel to provide not only for the military forces who reside there, but for the entirety of Thorne, including Hayle, Nott, and Castle Thorne.
Prime Minister Marlo refuses to let go unanswered what she sees as an unprovoked attack from Thorne. In return, the Free Cities has sent an amphibious warship that quickly travels over the desert and across Lake Circinus. A ship of this nature has never been seen before, with many in Thorne anticipating the Free Cities having to travel the long way around to reach their territory.
Caught unawares and with the crown's limited influence in Nott, on SEPTEMBER 8, those in Castle Thorne will awake in the middle of the night to thick smoke filling the sky. The farmlands around the lake north of Nott and south of Thorne, while finishing their harvest, have been set ablaze. Grain stores and crop fields are in smoldering ruins, and many rural homes have been destroyed.
Marlo will claim she has shown more grace and restraint than Thorne demonstrated to the Free Cities: she has only attacked their harvest source - not an entire city full of women and children over groundless assertions. It remains to be seen how much restraint the future continues to hold.
While Thorne has been working to preserve the Castle's stores, this is still a great blow to the people and their livelihoods. It also places a large strain on Borrel to provide not only for the military forces who reside there, but for the entirety of Thorne, including Hayle, Nott, and Castle Thorne.
The Factions
Quests this month will be related to the events described in this post and will be connected to what's happening in each faction. Please read the below before signing up for any quests!
Thorne
In Thorne, King Brydan Galdwin III, who has largely been in the shadow of his wife, steps forward for once to aid the situation. Most interested in protecting his people, he has opened communications with Solvunn to ask for their aid in providing the grain and supplies necessary to keep their people fed through Thorne's notoriously harsh winters. The Summoned can take on a Quest assignment in relation to this if they wish.
Official word will be released on Grigory Jannus' passing, which was due to a corrupted protection spell. In an attempt to defend him from an attack, the spell instead caused him to suffer a massive internal rupture. Anyone capable of reading between the lines can safely infer that Grigory burst like a balloon. A formal burial will be planned and held shortly, with everyone in Castle Thorne expected to attend.
Queen Ellya's temper has not waned. With Solvunn providing much-needed supplies, the Queen's focus remains on the Free Cities, as well as her court. The dungeon, which has seen little use since the Summoned escaped, is beginning to fill again with those accused of going against the crown. A high turnover rate has struck parts of the Castle, with those who are not arrested sent to parts far away in exile or otherwise forced to "retire" their position. So far, the Summoned have escaped any scrutiny, but they would do well not to raise too much dissent.
Borrel's military base has seen the greatest rise in activity both on land and around its harbors where warships are beginning to deploy. Portals to the city of Castle Thorne have opened regularly for the army to enter. The number of soldiers in the city and the castle has increased exponentially, and the Queen's uncle - one of Borrel's highest decorated military captains - has been seen visiting her in the throne room more than once.
That said, the Summoned do have a few opportunities to solidify their position in the Castle. In addition to the Quests they can undertake, they can also do the following:
Official word will be released on Grigory Jannus' passing, which was due to a corrupted protection spell. In an attempt to defend him from an attack, the spell instead caused him to suffer a massive internal rupture. Anyone capable of reading between the lines can safely infer that Grigory burst like a balloon. A formal burial will be planned and held shortly, with everyone in Castle Thorne expected to attend.
Queen Ellya's temper has not waned. With Solvunn providing much-needed supplies, the Queen's focus remains on the Free Cities, as well as her court. The dungeon, which has seen little use since the Summoned escaped, is beginning to fill again with those accused of going against the crown. A high turnover rate has struck parts of the Castle, with those who are not arrested sent to parts far away in exile or otherwise forced to "retire" their position. So far, the Summoned have escaped any scrutiny, but they would do well not to raise too much dissent.
Borrel's military base has seen the greatest rise in activity both on land and around its harbors where warships are beginning to deploy. Portals to the city of Castle Thorne have opened regularly for the army to enter. The number of soldiers in the city and the castle has increased exponentially, and the Queen's uncle - one of Borrel's highest decorated military captains - has been seen visiting her in the throne room more than once.
That said, the Summoned do have a few opportunities to solidify their position in the Castle. In addition to the Quests they can undertake, they can also do the following:
◎ Help take inventory of supplies and equipment, including food stores, potions, ingredients, and so onThe above is not all-encompassing. If your character is interested in fueling Thorne's darker ambitions regarding the Queen's suspicions of dissidents among her own or its war against the Free Cities, or if you have other ideas, you can contact us on the Plot Engagement post.
◎ Assist with reinforcing wards and spells
◎ Help train new apprentice mages in Academic Magic, if they are a student of Thorne's preferred style of magic or possess similar magic of their own
◎ Volunteer for the infirmary, run errands, or provide research assistance
Free Cities
In the Free Cities, the roads are open again and portals to Libertas have been provided. Quilleth Kaur, Libertas' representative, is mostly focused on the well-being and safety of her people rather than firing back on Thorne. Makeshift infirmaries have been set up throughout the rubble of the city, and Cadens and Aquila have both opened their gates to take on those who need a temporary home. The Summoned can take on a Quest assignment in relation to these matters if they wish.
Prime Minister Marlo has declared a state of emergency as a result of the waging conflict. Among other things, this has most notably suspended any upcoming elections until further notice for all government officials. While the curfew has been lifted, the army's presence is hard to miss as they patrol the city's borders. Newer Summoned may have to answer a few questions when entering or leaving at odd hours (very late at night, for example), but those who have been in the city for some time and are recognized by the soldiers will not be bothered.
Some shops owned by those accused of having close ties to Thorne have been vandalized, although performance artist Theany Newland, known for controversially embracing his Thornean roots, has stepped forward rather than hiding to bring about a union among everyone who calls the Free Cities home. He is moderately successful as many who once lived in Libertas are now in Cadens trying to rebuild - meaning their brand of free-thinking politics has permeated across the city further. Due to the vastly diverse population in the Free Cities, support for war does not go unchallenged and many feel more violence is not the answer even if nearly all agree Thorne's attack was uncalled for. They feel that the Free Cities' resources should be better spent rebuilding and defending their homes, not waging an invasion on foreign soil. Aquila, a city that relies on vacationers, innovative arts and fashion, and its thriving marketplace of imports is equally divided, concerned the war will impact profits and their way of life.
The Summoned have a few opportunities to contribute. In addition to the Quests they can undertake, they can also do the following:
Prime Minister Marlo has declared a state of emergency as a result of the waging conflict. Among other things, this has most notably suspended any upcoming elections until further notice for all government officials. While the curfew has been lifted, the army's presence is hard to miss as they patrol the city's borders. Newer Summoned may have to answer a few questions when entering or leaving at odd hours (very late at night, for example), but those who have been in the city for some time and are recognized by the soldiers will not be bothered.
Some shops owned by those accused of having close ties to Thorne have been vandalized, although performance artist Theany Newland, known for controversially embracing his Thornean roots, has stepped forward rather than hiding to bring about a union among everyone who calls the Free Cities home. He is moderately successful as many who once lived in Libertas are now in Cadens trying to rebuild - meaning their brand of free-thinking politics has permeated across the city further. Due to the vastly diverse population in the Free Cities, support for war does not go unchallenged and many feel more violence is not the answer even if nearly all agree Thorne's attack was uncalled for. They feel that the Free Cities' resources should be better spent rebuilding and defending their homes, not waging an invasion on foreign soil. Aquila, a city that relies on vacationers, innovative arts and fashion, and its thriving marketplace of imports is equally divided, concerned the war will impact profits and their way of life.
The Summoned have a few opportunities to contribute. In addition to the Quests they can undertake, they can also do the following:
◎ Provide medical aid, donations of food and clothes, or other efforts to those who need it mostThe above is not all-encompassing. If your character is interested in fueling the Free Cities' militant tendencies and suspicions against those who have supposed ties to Thorne or in combating those things, or if you have other ideas, you can contact us on the Plot Engagement post.
◎ Volunteer in hospitals, orphanages, and temporary shelters set up for those who have come to Cadens from Libertas
◎ Enlist in the military (naturally)
◎ Help transport goods and supplies to and from Cadens, or even gather those supplies themselves
Solvunn
In Solvunn, the war may be at a distance but not as far as many might prefer. With Thorne having reached out to Solvunn for their aid, Solvunn has agreed to provide a portion of their abundant harvest from this year to assist. So as not to be seen as choosing sides, Solvunn is equally offering assistance to the Free Cities. They have decided to send a supply of herbs and potions used in medicine to aid the people of Libertas. The Summoned can take on a Quest assignment in relation to these matters if they wish.
Solvunn continues to decline to take part in the conflict, denouncing the wicked actions of both sides and expressing sympathy for the common people and innocents whose lives have been affected. They will continue to provide humanitarian aid to both Thorne and the Free Cities. While Solvunn has taken action to increase their defences and wards, the Council's response has been subdued in order not to alarm their people. Their goal is to ensure the commune feels safe without raising too much fear and paranoia.
In addition, locals have turned their focus even more towards pleasing the gods. They believe that the gods have shown them grace and mercy by preventing tragedy from striking Solvunn's borders. The shrines see increased activity, and offerings continue to grow. The Summoned are often requested to participate or attend various ceremonies and blessings. These range from decorative wreaths, bone charms and shrines, and the occasional animal sacrifice should any of the Summoned have the stomach for it. Animal sacrifices are often performed deep in the woods, away from the general populace. Only those who choose to attend will witness it.
In addition to the Quests, the Summoned can undertake, they can also do the following:
Solvunn continues to decline to take part in the conflict, denouncing the wicked actions of both sides and expressing sympathy for the common people and innocents whose lives have been affected. They will continue to provide humanitarian aid to both Thorne and the Free Cities. While Solvunn has taken action to increase their defences and wards, the Council's response has been subdued in order not to alarm their people. Their goal is to ensure the commune feels safe without raising too much fear and paranoia.
In addition, locals have turned their focus even more towards pleasing the gods. They believe that the gods have shown them grace and mercy by preventing tragedy from striking Solvunn's borders. The shrines see increased activity, and offerings continue to grow. The Summoned are often requested to participate or attend various ceremonies and blessings. These range from decorative wreaths, bone charms and shrines, and the occasional animal sacrifice should any of the Summoned have the stomach for it. Animal sacrifices are often performed deep in the woods, away from the general populace. Only those who choose to attend will witness it.
In addition to the Quests, the Summoned can undertake, they can also do the following:
◎ Help harvest or tend to crop fields to ensure Solvunn has enough food for the winter, as well as a surplus to ship to Thorne and the Free Cities as neededThe above is not all-encompassing. If your character is interested in exploring Solvunn's deep-rooted beliefs in their gods or in swaying Solvunn to choose a side, or if you have other ideas, you can contact us on the Plot Engagement post.
◎ Craft charms, blessings, and other tokens meant to invoke the power of the gods
◎ Prepare offerings to the shrines around the commune or help maintain the shrines by weeding, cleaning, or decorating them
◎ Assist with children who might be anxious or fearful about what's happening
Notes
As with all interludes and preludes, this is not a formal game event! Rather, players can use the details described as inspiration and incorporate it into any threads or CR plans they may have. You can handwave as much or as little as you want regarding this occurrence. If you'd like, you can use this OOC post to plot with each other.
Nocwich will be watching how events unfold to decide how they proceed next, including if they will choose to open their doors regularly to the Summoned.
Nocwich will be watching how events unfold to decide how they proceed next, including if they will choose to open their doors regularly to the Summoned.
Questions and Answers
If after reading these you're still unsure about anything, or your question wasn't covered, please feel free to hit up our Questions thread below!
- What is the overview of the politics in Abraxas right now?
- Right now, the Free Cities and Thorne are in conflict, though neither side has formally declared war. Both Thorne and the Free Cities see Solvunn as a potential ally. While they're currently preoccupied with the fallout, they will soon consider if it will be possible to sway Solvunn to their cause. Solvunn at this time will not involve themselves beyond providing humanitarian aid.
- What is the current state of Libertas? Is anything left standing?
- Libertas has suffered a great blow and the casualties are high. That said, the Free Cities has been increasing their fortifications since May, so while the attack caught them off-guard, Libertas has fared better than what the initial rain of destruction suggested. About half of the city, the western portion, remains standing, with some of the meteoric fireballs having been deflected by shielding towards the hills and ocean.
Technological advancements have also helped save lives in the aftermath and will continue to do so. Many surviving residents of Libertas have chosen to find shelter in Cadens or Aquila for the foreseeable future, and the people of both sister cities have opened their doors. - How is Nocwich involved in all this?
- Nocwich will also decline involvement on the basis that they are a small nation that has neither the influence nor power to intervene in such matters. They have their own civil unrest to contend with, as well as the Feywilds, so they are not interested in adding someone else's war to their problems.
- What about the natives outside of Castle Thorne? How do they feel?
- As with all nations, sentiments differ across the population. Those at the Castle are not speaking up due to the Queen cracking down on anyone who displays signs of sympathy towards the Free Cities, or anyone who demonstrates any reluctance supporting Thorne's war against them. Borrel, home to Thorne's military, is also staunchly loyal to the crown. However, further away in intellectual corners such as Hayle or places that have separated themselves from the castle such as Nott, there may be more rumblings of discontent.
- Will there be an event post for this?
- There will be no event post! Players are welcome to use the details outlined here to flavor interactions in their personal logs and threads. Our upcoming event will be in October.
no subject