The Worldship, peacefully resting in port, taking on passengers, and countless tones of supplies, merely the calm before the storm. A storm rock the Grotto, the tide swelling, and the moon covered by clouds as the storm rained down. Meanwhile out at sea, a distressed crew is washed from their vessel. Their ghost-ship caught by the heavy, gusting winds.

A colossal wave the size of many houses carries it to shore. One would assume that the sea spikes would provide safety for the port city against such storms. But the vastness of this wave was overwhelming for the natural defenses of the port city.

Commands, barked and howled by the officers of the Worldship were heard. The hull broke, as water flooded into the storage compartment. Valiantly, without a second thought, volunteers poured inside the soon-to-be-sealed compartment. Their lives depended on how quickly they could seal the hole in the hull.

And such they did, the leak pulled, and the compartment open again. But all was not over, as they still weathered the storm, and the repairs were not yet totally complete. The crew went back to what they were doing beforehand. A small group went about repairing the ship

"A BEAST IN THE WATER!"

A man calls. The crew rushes to the starboard side, watched wide eyed as their captain would duel the beast. Axe in hand, it was slain, but not at a cost to the man. Countless spines of the beast, and bike marks, taking chunks out of the man. The ships medic, and the Grotto's Minister of Health, Sana was quick to patch the man up. A true credit to her vocation.

Soon, the storm would begin to pick up again as the crew, now determined to find safety for themselves and their family received orders. The Captain took the helm, and the crew the lines. The first-mate, Ania Terrialokye-Sterling ran mast to mast, sailor to sailor, checking their work.

"HALF SAIL!"

Followed by a moment of silence as the giant lurched forward, creeping through the water of the Grotto. Cutting through the choppy seas like a hot knife through butter. The large ship, seeming now unshakable by the giant rolling waves outside it's hull.

"LET LOOSE ALL JIBS! AND THE FORE SAILS!"

The ship creaks, ancient, well cared for oak strained under the great weight of the masts, and the bellows of wind. Speed increases as the ship's bow is pushed starboard through the great sea spikes that makes the settlement so notable. The cracks of lightening, and thunder in the distance shake the crew as they leave the port city.

"LET LOOSE ALL SAIL!"

The final command is bellowed from the wheelhouse. It is obeyed. A sudden lunge forward from the giant, it's speed rounding off at nearly 30 knots, remarkable for such a huge vessel. Perhaps the age of sail was not yet over, the all conquering steam-engine had not yet proven it's worth to the Grotto. The ship soon calmed itself, the oak behemoth finding it's calm among the choppy seas. It's size and mass unparalleled by any other ship, or wave.

The order was barked, followed by others, the crew scrambling about the decks to preform the commands as quickly as possible.

The ship, expertly piloted out of the Grotto, perhaps too close for comfort by some standards, though, they'd break for the open sea. Where they'd find some peace from the storm. For now...

The officers met in the Captain's cabin, what they spoke of, unknown to the crew. Quarters were quickly distributed among the sailing men and women, for those that did not have them. Though, they couldn't help but shake the feeling of defeat, and fear of the unknown. Their voyage off to such a bad start... They were grateful to have their lives, and not be crushed under a falling sea spike, or eternally trapped in the Grotto's tropical storm.

"The wonders of our Grotto..." The 'Fenn mutters. Preparing a letter to the Sovereign, his council of ministers, and poster, that he'd hang in the square, and notice board of the tavern.

It reads the following:

"To the Citizens of Talon's Grotto, it's Sovereign of the Depths, and Council of Ministers...
The very ground we stand on cries for us to leave. The world seems to be falling apart. I, Ayred Avandi, as Captain of the Worldship, and head of the Avandi clan, am opening housing requests for our great ship. Some 43 spaces are open, Ministers, and the Sovereign each have their own room, as such is only reasonable. We have all that we need to pilot our society to the next era, and if we do not find a new land, our great ship can serve as a city on it's own. Such is it's vastness. I humbly request that all citizens, nay, whoever wishes to survive, come to the Grotto, even if it's last minute. Claim a room and well, survive. The date of our departure has yet to be decided, though we are ready to leave at any moment.

More members of the crew are always needed. The more hands, the easier our voyage will be. It is requested, but not required that anyone on our ship be willing to lend a hang in any way they can. Such is just decency. 

The current officer roster is as following:
Captain: Ayred Avandi
Executive Officer: Ania Terrialokye-Sterling

Quarter Master: Athri"
 

Below, in golden ink is signed Ayred's signature

OOC:
To get a room, show up IRPly and just ask. If you rather fill out a forum, comment with the following:

MC Name:
IRP Name:
Place of origin:

1790

The Talon’s Grotto Militia is currently recruiting new soldiers! The Talon’s Grotto Militia is based within the southernmost port city on the Queen’s Isles within the Sovereign State of Talon’s Grotto. The Militia consists of citizens within Talon’s Grotto who wish to lend a hand in defense of the city if it were to be attacked, alongside aiding in patrols and enforcing laws within the city. The Talon’s Grotto Militia is a non-uniformed organization that is distinguished by the red, yellow, and black patches that are worn on the chest of the individual.

150 Minas are issued to members of the Militia upon the completion of trainings, schedules of which are developed as the months progress. Upon joining the Queen’s Isle Militia and attending at least one training, you will be afforded a signing bonus of 500 Minas.

To join the Talon’s Grotto Militia, simply send a bird to Gail Cordius, Talon’s Grotto Minister of Defense, voicing your interest, and he will get back to your shortly. (camocoat9 in-game, and camocat9#9373 on discord).

Ranking Structure

- = -

Enlisted: The ordinary members of the Talon’s Grotto Militia.
 

Draftee:
Draftees are the newest recruits to the Talon’s Grotto Militia. They typically shadow a higher ranking soldier such as an Envoy to learn the basics of the Militia. Draftees have a trial period of one year, otherwise known as one Saint’s Week, to determine whether or not they are fit to continue fighting in the Militia, with inappropriate conduct typically leading to the draftee being disciplined or discharged. After this year-long trial period, Draftees have the ability to be promoted. But, this does not mean that they have to be promoted. If they require longer to grasp the basics, or have had little involvement such as not going to training, they can stay as a draftee for as long as an officer chooses to keep them there.

Envoy:
Envoys are the recently promoted draftees. They typically make up a bulk of the Talon’s Grotto Militia, and are the ordinary soldier. Envoys can enforce laws and punishments within Talon’s Grotto based on the Talon’s Grotto Book of Laws if reaching a higher ranking member is not possible, even through birds.

Armsman:
Armsmen are typically the senior members of the Militia who have been envoys for enough time to prove their dedication and skills. Although they have no real authority over Envoys, they are typically respected due to their seniority and are more frequently put in charge of things such as patrols or investigations if there is no officer available. Armsmen have the ability to try to become an officer within the Talon’s Grotto Militia, and can freely enforce laws and handle punishments based on what is described within the Talon’s Grotto Book of Laws.

- = -

Officer: Those who assist in running the Talon’s Grotto Militia via hosting trainings and commanding the military.

Ensign:
Ensigns are the first officer rank of the Talon’s Grotto Militia. They have official command over soldiers within the enlisted bracket, and their commands are expected to be listened to. They are most frequently put in charge of things such as training, patrols, and investigations.

Centurion:
Centurions are the senior officers of the Talon’s Grotto Militia. They are ensigns who have proved their worth to the Militia, and are typically in charge of military events such as trainings, alongside being go-to battlefield commanders while defending against raids.
 

- = -

Leadership: The Marshal of the Talon’s Grotto Militia, in charge of all military matters within the city.

Marshal:
The Marshal of the Talon’s Grotto Militia is the head of military matters within the city. The Marshal helps manage recruitment for the militia and training for members within it, and any undefined questions relating to military matters are typically sent through the Marshal.

- = -

Signed, Gail Cordius, Talon’s Grotto Minister of Defense and Marshal of the Talon’s Grotto Militia

~The Grottos Flight~

[!]
The Sovereign of the depths stands alongside a table surrounded by the council members of the Grotto. “How they see us and think they know us is a thing of the past actions forged by those before us.” He states gazing over the group staying quiet, he sighs. “No Longer are we the random cluster of pirates and supposed scum that founded us, it is time that this government reflected that” His voice filling the room as a scribe in the corner begins to take note for public declaration.

=-The Rights-=

As a Citizen of Talon’s Grotto, there are five certain rights that are absolute

1. Freedom of Expression-
   A citizen of Talon’s Grotto is free to speak, assemble, and wear what they please, so long as it does not harm or infringe upon others.

2. Freedom of Property-
   Citizens of Talon’s Grotto are able to own private property that shall not be taken, or violated by the government without warrants granted by the Ministry of Law. This does not include slavery.
    

3. Freedom of Acclimation-
   A citizen of Talon’s Grotto has the right to a fair and public trial by the Ministry of Law. As well as the right to a fair punishment. Within Talon’s Grotto borders, Fair is determined by the current High Justicar
    

4. Rights by Birth-
   Those born in Talon’s Grotto are automatically granted these rights and citizenship.
    

5.  Freedom of Armament-
   A citizen of Talon’s Grotto is free to possess weapons and is expected to. 

=-The Sovereignty-=

The monarchical leader and family of Talons Grotto

• The Sovereign/Sovereigness of The Depths
   

As Sovereign, the main duty is to act as Chief of State and Chief Executive. The Sovereign is the Patriarch or Matriarch of the currently ruling Family.

A new family can be elected by the previous family, and approved by the council. Should the Sovereign act out of line to the people or council, a new one can be selected should more than half of the council conclude it is necessary.

Their spouse holds no power or sway within the council should their position is entirely marital.

• The Prince/Princess of The Depths:
  Are considered the next in line to take the throne. They hold no power within the government until they become the new Sovereign. They may, however, seek to assist and learn from the

•  Ministries.

As Prince or Princess, they are the next in line to become sovereign. They are expected to attend events and participate with the public of Talon’s Grotto. They however, have no political duties or requirements.

=-The Ministry of Law-=

The Ministry of Law handles all Legal Affairs within Talon’s Grotto, including approving any law proposed to the council.

• High Justicar: 

The High Justicar is elected by the council of Talon’s Grotto. They are expected to be the Speaker of the Ministry during council meetings, as well as handling major court rulings. They handle the creation and removal of laws within Talon’s Grotto.

• Justicars:

The Justicars are selected by the High Justicar. Justicars are expected to handle any court session and there can be a total of five at any given time. They also have the ability to issue warrants for both property and people, Which then can be passed down to the guard or investigators.

• Investigators:
  The investigators are in charge of the preservation and collection of evidence. They may pursue warrants issued by the Ministry of Law alongside the guards.

=-The Ministry Of Magic-=

The Ministry of Magic handles all magical matters within Talon’s Grotto. This includes issuing magic licenses as well as external affairs regarding magic.

• Archmagus: 

The Archmagus is elected by the council of Talon’s Grotto, but must be skilled and knowledgeable in a range of magic. They act as the speaker for the ministry of magic within the council. It is not required the Archmagus practice magic if they can prove extensive knowledge to offset this.

• Caretaker of Magical Creatures:
  The Caretaker of Magical Creatures is appointed by the Archmagus. They handle registration for magical creatures within the grotto such as Golems. As well as make sure all regulations of said magical creatures are up to date by their possessor
   

• Huntsmen:
  Huntsmen are hired by the Archmagus. They work alongside the guards and the Caretaker of Magical Creatures to help put down any Magical Creatures who pose an active threat to the safety of Talon’s Grotto and it’s people.
   

• Teacher of Magic:
  Teachers of Magic are hired by the Archmagus and military to help educate soldiers and civilians who are interested in learning about magic as well as helping them become a mage by getting them started and furthering their education if able to.

=-Ministry of War-=

The Ministry of War handles all matters pertaining to war and the upkeep of the military

• Minister of War

They hold the power over the Talons Grotto military and guard. They ensure the safety and protection of the grotto and its people. They may add and remove any head under their command as they see fit. They have the ultimate say over any decisions made about any wars or conflicts that involve the grotto. They must abide by the laws made by the Department of Justice and perform legal warfare when called into action. This position is only active during times of declared war involving the Grotto

• Grand Marshal

They are appointed by the council to maintain and train the Grotto’s military forces. They must ensure that their officers abide by the rules of combat and properly train their soldiers. They hold power over any military installations that the grotto controls, such as check points, garrisons, and outposts.

=-Ministry of State-=

The Ministry of State handles all matters external of Talon’s Grotto, not including war

• Consul-

The Consul is the overall head of any matters pertaining to external affairs including negotiations and embassies. They are elected by the council of Talon’s Grotto

• Envoy-
  The Envoys are appointed by the Consul to fulfill diplomatic and administrative duties. They essentially speak the will of the consul and the people of Talons Grotto. They can also open trade routes with other nations and discuss prices with the guidance of the Ministry of Wealth.

=-Ministry of Wealth-=

The ministry of Wealth handles any and all things that affect the economy of Talon’s Grotto 

• Treasurer

They control the taxes and business regulations within the Grotto. They are required to file all tax collections and money uses made by the over government members. All requests for funding do through the head of commerce. They also have the ability to set minimum wages within the grotto. This position is voted on by the council of Talon’s Grotto

• Tax Collectors

They are hired by the head of commerce to collect taxes and help with documentation. They are required to keep a record of collection and deposits to the head of commerce.
 

=-Ministry of Civics-=

The Ministry of Civics handles the welfare and is the speaker of the Citizenry

• Grand Orator

The speaker of the Orators and citizens. They are elected by the other orators and reside within the capital city. They handle the civic duties of both the capital and the other vassals.

• Orator

They are elected in their home city to express the will of the people that reside there. Each vassal must elect an Orator so that they can participate in civic politics. The capital does not have an Orator, that duty falls onto the Grand Orator.

=-The Council-=

The council is a cumulation of the leaders of each ministry*

*However, as needed The council may take on or remove members by majority vote to ease strain on the government

Powers of each member:

• Sovereign- 

The sovereign acts as a “Head of the Council” keeping order, and has the power to veto any bill or law proposed but this can be overturned by 50 percent or more of the council.

• High Justicar- 

The High Justicar approves and denies any law proposed by the council. This action can be overturned by 50 percent or more of the council

• Archmagus- 

The Archmagus brings forth any magic-based insight. They can also veto any bill or law regarding magic. This can be overturned by 50 percent or more of the council.

• Minister of War- 

The Minister of War approves or denies any suggestion regarding war or military, they are also responsible for issuing declarations of war or declaration of peace.

• Consul-
  The consul approves or denies any suggestions to the matters of diplomacy. They are incharge of peace talks and any peacetime decisions regarding other nations or charters.

• Treasurer-
  The Treasurer approves or denies any requests made to change the tax laws set within the Grotto. They may also approve and deny anything related to money from the grotto. They can also send government funds to the other ministries that require it.

• Grand Orator-
  The Grand Orator is the voice of the people and the other orators. They offer input on any decisions that the council makes in hopes of keeping it within the will of the people. Any civic building projects may be approved or denied by the Grand Orator.
  
  
  
   

((OOC))
Below is the current list of Council members and their discords for reference, this post shall be updated as positions change. Temp council means that position may be removed if it is no longer needed.

Sovereign of the Depths: Nathaniel Goldblight (Ztrog#0623)

High Justicar: Gail Cordius (camocat9#9373)

Archmagus: Castiel Valaker (RequiemOfLight#2281)

Ministry of war: Reserved for war time

Consul: Count Durlak (jesterofdreams#8440)

Treasurer: Delsos (role_play#0001)

Grand Orator: Ania Sterling (Reledy#5183)

Ministry of Education (Temp Council): Anastasia Dokar (RedRiderYT#7752)

In the absence of Arthur Sterling, I Nathaniel Goldblight, Admiral of the Depths and advisor to the sovereign will be taking over Talons Grotto in his absence. I promise the people that I will continue the great legacy of this town, needless to say, we will begin to search for Arthur, as I am stepping forwards, Ania Sterling, his wife, will aid me in running the city.  

I will begin to reconstruct laws and policies, as well as the council. I apologize for the inconvenience this causes to our citizens and allies, but we are doing all we can to maintain the order we had when he was here. I want to make sure that all of the citizens and orphans of Talons Grotto are well taken care of, if anyone has any feedback or would like to schedule a meeting, please send me a letter. Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely, 

Nathaniel Valorum Goldblight

Issued by his The Sovereign of the Depths, Arthur Sterling, on the 9th of the Grand Harvest, 1738

_____________________________________________________________________________________

TO MR. GODRIC OF MORSGRAD 

    Talon’s Grotto sends its sincerest apologies for what happened to you on the road, these roads aren’t safe with the war occurring and traveling on them is a death sentence. The tragic events around the Morsgrad Caravan Massacre sadden the citizens of Talon’s Grotto greatly and we will gladly support Morsgrad by offering you sixty heads of cattle, five thousand mina to replace your lost assets and a boat so that you may no longer have to travel by the dangerous roads again. Talon’s Grotto also offers all citizens of Morsgrad who were affected by the Massacre and who are in need of medical assistance to come to Talon’s Grotto where the staffed clinic is ready to serve to help alleviate the injuries suffered at the hands of the barbaric bandits.

As for the problem regarding the establishment of a trade caravan: if we had been properly informed, we would have had hoped to prevent such a brutal event from taking place on the roads. Though since no trade agreement was formally made with the Director of Exterior, and only a lone merchant the agreement was unknown to the Talon’s Grotto government and we believe Morsgrad was deceived into believing that Talon’s Grotto was the one who established the agreement. The Office of the Director of Interior Trade will also be conducting an investigation to see if there is any evidence showing that the establisher of the Caravan had hired the bandits to attack it on the roads and if this is proven true then they shall be punished both here in Talon’s Grotto and shall be expetitated to Morsgrad to face punishment there.

______________________________________________________________________________

Signed, Signed: Arthur Sterling, Sovereign of Talon's Grotto

Arthur Sterling signs the letter and waits for a reply from the leader of Morsgrad.

(OOC) Atrex sits in a Publix parking lot making this post as his car won't start... send help.

          The navy is finally here! Led by Ania Terrialokye, the Sovereign and now fleet Admiral, the navy strives to serve! We are looking for you to join the fight to prevent conflict, insure international partnerships, and keep our land secure from all looking to harm us.  They are a vital part of the Grotto’s power and success in all areas.The Navy of Talon’s Grotto focuses on keeping the water clear of oceanic threats to the people through its powerful crew and ship combat. The seamen of the navy will assist in the protection of the Grotto through naval units traveling the depth of the sea. The navy is here to train,  prepare, and organize combat ready Naval forces for wars while maintaining safety and obviation through constant authoritative being. 

          All are accepted to apply for the navy no matter race, with only a minimum age of 18, to join the crew. Joining the crew, although being a large responsibility, will open you up to a new world of companionship and family. Not only is the Navy fighting but also taking part in their own events to support the trust within the crew and maintain an intriguing experience within the fleet. Those around you will be with you through it all, battle and out. As members of the Navy, included in your goals would be the protection of your fellow seamen. By joining you make a promise to serve everyone around you to the best of your ability and keep the Grotto the safest it can be. 

          To join please apply below with the following information and a letter to Ania on your desire to join the crew:

IGN:

Character Name:

Discord:

Letter to Ania:

If you have further questions you would like answered please get a hold of me on Discord (Reledy#5183) or in game (Reledy), Thank you!

For long as sentient beings have walked on the world there has been history. And this history must be protected and preserved for future generations. By order of the Sovereign of the Depths, Arthur Sterling may he live long. The Historical Society is now formed to protect our history!

History can often be desecrated by those who wish to forget what has taken place in history. As sentient beings living in this world, it must be our job to preserve anything and everything about the history of the world we are living in. So that is where we come in, the founders of The Historical Society came together in agreement in the protection of history itself. Acting as a council of like-minded intellectuals they would form our society with one goal in mind, preserve history at any cost. 

Our goal is to go out and collect items of history from the past of many around the world. To then bring these relics, pieces of writing, and art back to our library of knowledge. Where we shall teach these ancient artifacts with the proper care that is deserved. While teaching many of the histories that lie behind each piece and what it stands for, what many have forgotten.  

   Now for the roles of the Historical Society will be the following. 

Archaeologist:

An archaeologist will go out into the field, going into the darkest depths. Searching through the tomes of the dead, scouting into dead civilizations themselves. Their jobs are to research and bring back artifacts they find while working along with research historians. 

Research Historian:

A research historian’s job will be to gather up knowledge and data from various sources throughout the world to analyze to find other historical objects in the world. And to even find future archaeological sites to discover even more artifacts. 

Military Historian:

Military historian's work is to gather data and information from ancient wars, battles, and past events with the conflict of past wars. While putting the pieces together of these historical events of militant groups and the such to formulate a history on the art of war.

Archive Historian: 

An archive historian is responsible for recording and compiling data that is gathered at the library of the society. Then to put the information into one large collection for visitors and fellow researchers of the library. 

Curator:

   A curator's job is to maintain the artifacts, displays, and collections within the library of the Historian Society. They are also responsible for helping to educate the general public about the history within the library of the society. 

Now, this is an open invitation to all those who wish to become a member of the Historian Society and help preserve the knowledge of old and history itself. Send a bird (pm) to one of the founders of the society. 

Signed: Arthur Sterling, Sovereign of the Depths, Sovereign of Talon's Grotto

Signed: Lilaccia Sterling, Princess of the Fathoms, Princess of Talon's Grotto

Signed: Professor Fredrick Joseph Carmen Ellise Julianes Giorno Tesla Silvester Pierre Commodus Montoya Ford Newton Speedwagon XVI, founding member, and Head Archaeologist 

[OOC] For more information pm myself Ztrog#0623 or Arthur Sterling at RealPeopleGames#2925 on discord

For years the Citizens of Talon's Grotto have lived in fear of the constant attacks of Pirates, thieves and villains of every sort, That ends today, by order of the Sovereign of the Depths, Arthur Sterling, long may he reign, a new brigade has been formed, tasked with the defense of the Grotto and it's peoples!

Ranks

I.

Grand Marshal: Khalid Al-Nabeel

The Grand Marshal is the absolute highest ranking of icer within the Brigade. He is treated with the utmost respect, as he serves as the sword and shield of The Sovereign of Talon’s Grotto . The Grand Marshal assigns all soldiers their ranks, and plans the overall activities of the Brigade, they may also appoint their own Chevalier with the Sovereigns approval.

II.

Depth Keeper

The Depth Keepers of Talon’s Grotto are Chevaliers who have given themselves fully to protecting the Sovereign of the Depths. This order of Keepers serves as the Guards of the Sovereign and the Sovereign's Family at all times protecting them from harm when ever needed.

III.

Chevalier

The Chevalier of Talon’s Grotto hold the highest prestige within the Brigade and are the forethinkers of the cities defenses and war-time tactics,They're also considered the utmost honored of the military and are to be treated with the highest regard and respect only being directed by the Grand Marshal, High Justicier and or the Sovereigns of the Depths.

IV.

Lieutenant

Lieutenants lead the Sergeants in large exercises ranging from patrols to large organized war games. Lieutenants are responsible for carrying out the orders handed down by the Chevaliers and working with the High Justicier to prevent crime in the city.

V.

Sergeant

Sergeants are expected to host training sessions and patrols often, keeping the brigade warm, active, and ready for battle. Though Sergeants are given the right to command, they still must answer to their superiors. The Sergeants report to the Lieutenants for their orders and when needing to report in.

VI.

Tide Keeper

Tide Keeper is only a title given to Armsman signifying that they have taken the Oath of the Tide Keeper. Desertion after taking oath is punishable by death. Failure to uphold oath leads to a dishonorable discharge. Armsman who have taken oath now have the opportunity to rise to higher ranks within the Brigade as well as the right to declare a specialization into a field of swordsmanship, caviary, archery, siege and etc.

Oath of the Tide Keeper:

I am the calm in the storm Born from the waves I serve this Grotto I carry a torch even in the darkest times And shield the innocent from the waves of demise I, (name) swear to be the sword for the weak, Loyal to Sovereign of the Depths who leads me, And a protector of Talon’s Grotto even in it’s darkest times, So with this Oath, I swear myself to the tides.

VII.

Armsman

A trusted man or woman amongst the first ranking are known as Armsman, this is the first promotional status you'll receive of many. The Armsman is the true bulk of the cities defenses, you're to enforce the city law fluently under the supervision of Tide Keepers and second ranking of icers.

VIII.

Draftee

Draftees are newly enlisted members of the Brigade. Their first Saint’s Week within the military is given to prove their worth within the military. If granted, they may begin their days as a Soldier of Talon’s Grotto. Draftees are often assigned to gate duty, but expected to attend the same activities as Soldiers.

JOIN TODAY!

Enlistment Form

Name:

Age:

Past Posts?

[OOC]

Username:

Discord (Required):

Timezone (Optional):