The_Mad_Skylord

THE DUCHY OF OSETLAND "Glory is the reward of valour." -------- The Duchy of Osetland is a uniquely human realm, surrounded as it is by Dwarves, Elves, Gnolls, Greenskins and Half-Orcs. Though it remains part of the greater Kingdom of Castirmark, Osetland has fiercely resisted any effort made to taint its bloodlines with Orcish blood and, as a result, the Duchy is almost completely human, due in part to the common folks' remarkable xenophobia. -------- The Marble Court holds absolute sway within the borders of Osetland - the peasantry are nearly as pious as they are racist. Practitioners of heretical faiths are routinely rooted out in Osetland - where the Sacred Order of the Golden Tongue is openly welcomed - and Osetlander houses tend to be a riot of religious paraphernalia. While all of the major deities of the Marble Court are widely worshiped in Osetland, the most popular figures of worship are the two Patron Saints of Osetland, Saint Valdemar and Saint Valerian, both Dukes, who were canonised upon their deaths for their great deeds in service to the Duchy. -------- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BvZhtEqBa-8rthlln508gwOH3zrRu3RdUIpHiKb7BN0/edit?usp=sharing Osetland has ever been a land of chivalry, of honour, of nobility. Ever since Saint Valdemar founded the Duchy after slaying the Red Terror, a wryvern of extraordinary size and might, Osetland has had a strong knightly caste, and strong knightly tradition. It is considered normal for the lesser sons of noble houses to seek status and title for themselves by pursuit of the knightly arts, as Prince Valdemar's original companions did, when they swore themselves to his banner. As is typical of a feudal realm, this knightly tradition is at the heart of Osetland's military tradition, and any Osetlander army is sure to have a strong core of knights, armed and armoured in shining steel, and mounted upon the finest steeds. This shining spirit of chivalry has served Osetland well throughout the years. Saint Valdemar and his descendants used it to drive out the Gnolls, the Orcs, the Goblins, to bring low the Elven princes and to establish the modern borders of the Duchy today, while Saint Valerian and his knights were responsible for saving Osetland in its time of greatest need, by driving out the Orcish invader in the Greymaw War. Osetland is a fiercely independent state, despite its obeisance to the Castyrian Crown, and it has strived endlessly over the years to retain this independence in the face of external threats and pressure from the Throne. Despite this, Osetland has a strangely close relationship to the greater Kingdom of Castirmark as a whole, with a peculiar list of trade laws and agreements, in place largely because of the Kingdom's reliance on Osetland as access to the Valdemere, the north-east's only easy means of trade with the southern Empire. In the modern day, Osetland stands at odds with the rest of Castirmark, a dutiful but reluctant member of an uneasy partnership, born from the end of the Greymaw War. While Osetland has maintained its allegiance to the Castyrian Crown, it has resisted any and all attempts to bring about the Orcisation seen in the northern provinces of the Kingdom, while Castirmark's membership of the Empire is, in part, due to the severe political tension and instability brought about by the Border Wars (wherein the vassals of both Osetland and greater Castirmark engaged in open warfare against each other, allegedly with the secret endorsement of the House of Castaszir-Osetland) and Osetland's intransigent refusal to bring the perpetrators to justice. For now, membership of the Empire has mollified tensions on both sides of the border, but ultimately, the future of relationships between Osetland and Castirmark is something only time can tell. -------- KAZIMIR II, DUKE of OSETLAND, BARON ze TARZESTOR Kazimir II is the only son of the late Kazimir I, a boy of barely 12 who ascended to rule of the Duchy following his father's untimely demise at the hands of a feral Gnollish javelin. While it is yet far too early to tell just what kind of a Duke the boy will be, he already dreams of following in the footsteps of his ancestors, Saint Valdemar and Saint Valerian, and achieving greatness and recognition through martial prowess. Duke Kazimir suffered an unfortunate injury as an even younger child, when he was kicked in the face by his pony. While he survived without an debilitating injury, his nose is flattened as if by a mace, and he has a cruel, hoof shaped scar across his left cheek. JACEK ze MALREZ, BARON ze MALREZ Jacek ze Malrez is one of the leading noblemen of Osetland. Though lesser in title than some of his peers, the Baron's marriage to the late Lady Luiza, Duke Kazimir's aunt, has left him uncle to his young liegelord, who he loves fiercely, following the death of his own son, Jozef. Jacek's close relationship with the young Duke has rendered him one of his chief protectors and regents, which - for now - has put an end to the behavior he is most infamous for. As a border baron, Lord Jacek has gathered notoriety - and a nickname, "Black Jack" - for his vicious and unrelenting raids into Castirmark. While these attacks have never escalated to the scale of the Border Wars, they continue to be a thorn in the side of Castyrian-Osetlander relations. KONRAD ze MORZESTOR, COUNT ze MORZESTOR Lord Konrad is the second member of the Duchy's regency council, and he is also the young Duke's uncle through marriage. Konrad is the premier peer of the Realm, controlling large estates throughout much of the country, and it is little secret that he desires to be name heir presumptive to Osetland, by virtue of his marriage to the Duke's uncle, and by the security of his line, whose future lies in the lives of his two young daughters. Konrad's cause, however, is marred by his blatant unpopularity, and Osetland's strict adherence to the tradition of male inheritance. STANISLAS ze OSETDELL, COUNT ze OSETDELL Stanislas is the oldest son of the late Duke Florian, Duke Kazimir II's grandfather. Unfortunately for Lord Osetdell, he is also Florian's bastard, with no claim to the Ducal title. Despite that, Stanislas was raised as Florian's son, and he has proven to be both an incredibly skilled knight, and a loyal servant of Osetland. With his brother, Kazimir I, Stanislas campaigned against the Gnolls, fought against Elvish incursions in the south, and chased off Orcish raiders in the borderlands. As a result, he has been reward generously for his services, and has made a favourable marriage to the Lady Sasha, a daughter of Mikhail, of the House Irimon. Despite his longstanding service, there is some question as to the Lord Osetdell's loyalty to the young Duke, as he is widely held to be an ambitious man. Intensely popular, Stanislas is currently considered to be best choice to be named as Duke Kazimir's heir presumptive. -------- Southern area on Hell's map. -------- THE KNIGHTS OF SAINT VALDEMAR In the darkest hours of the Greymaw War, when all seemed lost, Saint Valerian rode forth with his most trusted knights, and routed the host of the Red Orc, Vicarus, personally slaying him and scattering his army to the winds. This legendary charge has gone down in Osetlander annals as the pinnacle achievement of the Duchy's knightly caste, and ever since then the greatest knights of Osetland have been known as Knights of Saint Valdemar. While this honour is a title, rather than a dedicated knightly order, the Knights of Saint Valdemar march to war with the livery badges and emblems of both Saint Valdemar and Saint Valerian upon their heraldry, and they are widely regarded as the finest knights yet known to man. One of the honours bestowed upon the Knights of Saint Valdemar is the right to carry the Valdemarion and the Valerianus, two pennants - mounted upon each Saints' lance - that followed the Saints themselves into battle during their lifetimes. To be a Knight of Saint Valdemar is not just a petty honour, however - it is widely believed that the spirits of the Saints themselves follow these warriors into battle, for they have a truly uplifting presence for allied troops, and they inspire dread and fear in all but the most battle-hardened of foes. [Allied troops are inspired in the presence of Knights of Saint Valdemar, whilst enemy troops are unnerved and terrified in their presence.] -------- SAINT VALERIAN'S CATHEDRAL Following the death of Saint Valerian, and his canonisation by the Osetlander clergy, his son - Gabriel I - ordered the construction of an immense cathedral in his honour, to celebrate his saving of Osetland during the Greymaw War. Though the Cathedral took nearly fifty years - and the lifetimes of three Dukes - to complete, it stands now as a truly immense monument to the Saint's achievements. In the years since its completion, Saint Valerian's Cathedral has become renowned for the study of the divine arts, and many mages have been produced in its hallowed halls. [Provides an additional spell.]

THE HOUSE OF VRIZIA "Glory is the reward of Valour." Year 2 of the Third Age Roland sat in his tent, surrounded by his brothers and his liegemen. His rent mail hung from a stand in the corner, and his sword hung carelessly from the back of his curule chair. "We have taken losses we can scarce afford to lose. De Vries is dead, Morton too. Denair has lost a leg below the knee, along with three sons - his fourth is not of any use to me either, being barely fit to lift his father's sword, nevermind don his mail and wield his lance." He glanced out the tent, his brow furrowed, and his expression dark. "Our new friends have made our stay here difficult, and for now, we must withdraw." There were no angry shouts, only a few ill humoured grumbles from the most blockheaded of the company. "We have a good price for the prisoners, which dampens this defeat a little, but we have no choice but to withdraw northwards." In silence, the knights depart, and leave their liege to his brooding. ----- From atop a low hill, Roland looks imperiously out across the vast lands, green and bountiful, that seemed to stretch endlessly along the River Ynn. “It is unfortunate that we were unsuccessful at Tamerick Town” he spoke, to his brother Tancred “but this is a green land, and when we set out from Vrizia, we could not have hoped to find better than this.” He turned in his saddle, to look Tancred in the eye. “This, dear brother, is as good a place to settle as any, I think. We’ve ridden for years, let us now build a nation in this place.” Tancred shrugged, seemingly disinterested in this new plan of Roland’s. “What will you call it then?” his younger brother grumbled. Roland grinned. “Vrizenland.” ----- -More miners are employed. (5000C, 2 B) -Roland leads his followers north, where the Vrizians settle upon the banks of the Ynn. -Filled with wrath and eager to spill blood, the Count of Vrizia leads his horsemen on campaigns against the local villages, intent on forcing them to bend to his rule. 205 Knights, 150 Light Cavalry. (Mod)

THE HOUSE OF VRIZIA "Glory is the reward of Valour." Far to the east, across vast plains empty of life or livestock, through rugged mountain passes populated with creeping, mutated goblins, over mountains swept bare by wind and Ancient wickedness, in dark, dank forests, bereft of light and populated by horrors that still haunt the dreams of Roland, lies a castle, the namesake of his house. It was a grand castle in its day, a tall stone keep, thrice expanded by old Lord Robert, surrounded by a pair of high curtain walls, with a deep ditch circumnavigating it all. It had been a warm place, strangely warm for a castle, heated by the Ancient springs deep within the earth, vast pools of heated water treated by whatever sorcery the Ancients had employed. He remembered it well, did Roland, even now he could see it in his mind's eye - not as it had been at the end, covered in enemy banners, burning, with collapsed walls and strewn with corpses, no, he remembered it's airy grandeur, it's wide open halls, the vast courtyard where he had trained with axe, sword, bow and lance, the rooms where his brothers had been born, where he had been raised. He stood on a tall hill, letting the cold wind blow around him. His eyes were closed, and he swore he could nearly feel the rough hewn stone beneath his fingers, could touch the tapestries, sink deep into the lush furniture his father had loved so dearly, but when he opened his eyes, there was nothing save an open plain, covered in low hillocks. He felt a sharp stab in his heart and, despite himself, tears pricked at his eyes. It had been home, that castle, and its loss was a bitter blow. Still, there was little time for such reminiscing. He glanced to the ground, where he had carelessly cast his sword and helmet, before turning his gaze back to his encampment, in the field below. The tents, once fine pavilions, were patchwork now. The banners and the pennants thin and frayed, the surcoats and livery coats tattered and worn. Still, he reminded himself, the horses had thrived in these open grasslands, and the men were fighting fit too, and that was more important than any number of flags and banners and coats. "We've been in worse states, Tancred." He called to the big, hulking figure striding up the hill, clad in mail, missing an eye and most of his cheek. Tancred, the eldest of his younger brothers, reached the top and sat down in the grass, sprawling in the warm air. Roland smiled, gently kicking his brother as he sat down beside him. "We've managed to find some twelve hundred more men, Roland, nought more than levies, mind." Roland nodded, staring down the hill towards the encampment. "Then we'll march at dawn." He looked to Tancred, and cracked a smile "After all, there's a kingdom to be won!" ------- -Roland employs a new miner. (5kC, 2 B.) -The House of Vrizia rides to war….

THE HOUSE OF VRIZIA When old Robert of Vrizia - oft called a myriad of names in his later life, ranging from the Bold, to the Fearless, to the Grotesquely Fat - first arrived to the castle of Arnlynden, some miles beyond the boundaries of Illesia, he came as but a mere knight, unlanded, with only the smallest of Lances in his service. Within a year of his entrance to the service of the Baron of Arnlynden, he had earned himself a moderate estate, wherein he built a respectable manor he christened Vrizia. It was that year he whelped the first of his twelve sons on the first of his three wives, and his efforts quickly amassed him some considerable wealth and renown. Lord Robert was by nature, however, a discontent man, and his life in Vrizia swiftly became characterised by violence and blood feuds, as he rode against his neighbours, raided their lands, and redrew the boundaries to suit himself. Despite this vicious disregard for the Baron's rule, Robert's prestige - and the surprising number of hardened warriors eager to follow him - discouraged the Baron from taking action. Eventually, Robert found himself usurping Arnlynden, taking land and title for himself. Ever vain, he decided to rechristian his new title, changing the name from the Baron of Arnlynden, to the Baron of Vrizia, and within six months he had already decided to promote himself to a count. Robert's usurping, warmongering ways continued for years, once again focused on his neighbours, and it was in this violent reality that Robert's sons learned their trade, as they grew older, they became adept with lance and sword, and served in their father's service, each gaining their spurs, and their own minor estates. Robert's depredations were not to last forever though, and the House of Vrizia eventually found itself rooted out of its home keep, at the hands of an overwhelming alliance. Old Lord Robert was killed, and the leadership of his house fell to his eldest son, Roland, who led the House westwards, in the hopes of achieving fresh land and title in an undiscovered territory. For years the brothers traveled, and slowly they were abandoned by all but their most loyal retainers, but now Roland, Count of Vrizia, has arrived to the ripe lands of Illesia, and already fighting men flock to his banner..... --------- ROLAND, COUNT OF VRIZIA The firstborn son of Lord Robert, Roland is every bit the ruthless and exploitative robber baron his father once was. Hardened by his father's constant petty wars, and served by a band of loyal and capable retainers - including his brothers - Roland's ambitions are mighty, as he aims to carve out a Kingdom in this new land. Roland is a tall man, thick with muscle from years of wielding sword, shield and lance. Never particularly handsome, his looks have been made worse by the mace blow that crushed his nose, and the many scars that crisscross his face. His hair is black, cropped short, and he sports a short, pointed beard. THE SONS OF ROBERT Tancred Roger Simon John Hugo Paul William Percy Richard James Thomas --------- Vrizian Longbowmen Despite the longstanding preference for cavalry within the ranks of his father's armies, Roland has come to understand the benefits of massed archers, capable of pouring volleys of arrows onto the ranks of enemy troops. In order to provide a plenitude of such troops, Roland has ordained that all common folk in his service train with the longbow, and take to the battlefield as cheap, easily raised and unarmoured archers. [No metal cost Medium Archers] --------- A Lord and his Lances It has long been the tradition that when the knights in service to the Count of Vrizia march to war, each must contribute a Lance to their liege lord's service. For the typical unlanded knight, a Lance is defined as 2 Longbowmen and a Man-at-Arms. This system has long allowed Vrizia to muster capable armies for campaign. [Heavy Infantry and Heavy Cavalry count as knights, and each knight is accompanied to war by 2 Longbowmen and 1 Medium Infantryman.] --------- A Family Heirloom Old Lord Robert discovered, in the course of his travels, an ancient artefact - a signet ring from which he took his coat of arms - this ring is capable of creating earthquakes powerful enough to topple stone walls, and it currently adorns the ring finger of Roland, Count of Vrizia.

A lanky, and rather unfortunate looking, bard by the name of Agamedes puffs out his chest and begins to sing in a fine tenor voice; "Elves they are foul and elves they are rude, Elves are obnoxious, smelly and crude, They are a plague to be thrown from our land, So come all men with sheep-sheers in hand! Throughout our homes these child thieves do stalk, Vicious, stupid and crass in their talk! They oogle our women and our children enslave, Come brothers, all, our homes we must save! Friends if ever an elf at your door you do find, Wait not until he has robbed you blind! Whip out your clippers and claim both his ears, And let the scum know that them we don't fear!"

KONINKRIJK AADRENSVELD-RHYNSLAND Early 1891 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ THE FIRES OF INDUSTRY! RJIKSTAAD'S IMPERIAL FLOATYARDS TAKES MAJOR CONTRACTS! Imperial Floatyards, a prominent, privately owned shipwright located in Rjikstaad, in the Fatherland, has accepted major contracts from the Imperial Sechsian Navy and the Marine Aeronautique d'Acadie. Though this turn of events is unsurprising - given Aadrensveld-Rhynish superiority in ship construction - it has brought huge profits and increased employment to the city of Rjikstaad, which has suffered greatly in light of recent economic hardships and grain shortages. MARRIAGE! HIS HIGHNESS, CROWN PRINCE FRANZ-HEINRICH, TO WED LADY MARIAM OF TYREL! His Royal Highness, Prince Franz-Heinrich van Aadrensveld, is to wed Lady Mariam Kassadan of Tyrel, daughter of the sitting Archduke, in an Autumn ceremony. The ceremony will take place in the Cathedral of Hieromar, built by Heinrich III and located within Coenstaad, and the traditional venue for Royal weddings. Lady Mariam shall spend the remaining time before her wedding in Aadrensveld-Rhynsland, coming to know the country she is eventually to be Queen of. RIVALRY IN THE ADMIRALTY! THE FIRST AND SECOND SKYLORDS EMBROILED IN BITTER CONFLICT OVER STATE OF THE FLEET! A bitter argument has taken hold of the Board of the Admiralty, as the First and Second Skylords bicker viciously over the future of De Koninkrijke Marine. The First Skylord's proposed doctrine of "Strength by Land and Skies" has met bitter opposition from the Second Skylord and his faction, bitter advocates of their own doctrine "Steel Horizon". Steel Horizon advocates the pursuit of total aerial supremacy, by means of the construction of a capital ship focused fleet, while Strength by Land and Skies calls for a mixed balance of power between the Navy and the Army, with the Koninkrijke Marine designed in a manner that will allow the provision of maximum support to Aadrensveld-Rhynish ground forces, in the theoretical scenario of a large scale Continental conflict. MURDER INVESTIGATION UNCOVERS THIRD MURDER, NATION SHOCKED! Officers investigating the murder of two prostitutes from the Reksville slums have recently uncovered the murder of a man known as Fredrik Djik, a known gambler and drunk. The Nationaal Politiebureau continues to investigate both crimes, though there are currently no indications that either murder case is linked. NEW STOCK TRADER OPENS IN COENSTAAD! LADEMANN AND MANES, BROKERS, SEEKS NEW BUSINESS! A new stock trader opens in Coenstaad. Though no governmental sponsorship has currently been offered, Lademann and Manes have already secured the business of major corporations, such as Imperial Floatyards and Slanker Heavy Manufacturing. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Rain. Always rain. The heavy winter rains, filled with frigid snow and sleet, had given way to the spring rains, carrying with them the hope of a new year and new life. There was no promise of life in the air for Major Martin de Coninck, or his young aide, Lieutenant Olaf van Hee. The two officers of the Nationaal Politiebureau strode silently through the heavy streets of Reksville, fine uniforms and raincoats covered with mud, and worse, as they made for their destination. "Down here." Called van Hee, gesturing to an alley, which lead to a number of hovels that the wealthy factory owners who owned them called "tenements". Both drew their revolvers, and the Braun & Jannsen Model 1882s glistened wetly in the endless sheets of water. They neared a door, and Major de Coninck rapped it smartly. They had been directed here by a pimp, known as Big Bjork, who owned a brothel down on the Diddler's Way. Two of Bjork's girls had been killed in what appeared to be the actions of a serial killer, and the man who lived here was a known regular of both girls - occasionally at the same time, when the thoroughbreds had been good to him. "Mr Djik?" Called de Coninck, rapping again "Please open the door, Mr Djik." Silence. Coninck steps back, readying his weapon, and nods briskly to his young aide. With a flurry of soaking oilskins, van Hee kicks the door open, the lock bursting out of the light timbers, and the policemen step inside. Immediately, both are hit by a dreadful stench, and they choke on the scent of soaking, rotted purification. They proceed to the next room, where they find what remains of Djik, lying in a puddle of crusted, dry blood, a bloated, maggot infested and half eaten corpse. Coninck crouches down, and lifts a shell beside the corpse. "Not very professional." He tucks it into a pocket. "Run down the street, Mr van Hee, best call the Staadspolitie, have them lock down the street. We shall need to interview every neighbor we can lay our hands on." Van Hee runs out the door, and de Coninck walks around the room, casting an eye around the meagre furnishings and the even more meagre possessions. With van Hee gone, he takes the shell out of his pocket again, feeling a chill as he does. He couldn't be sure, but the Major could almost swear that the shell was from a police issue revolver. He frowned, adjusted his hat, and stepped back out into the rain. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ACTIONS -A survey of the local habitants of Vriesia is undertaken. If possible, Aadrensveld-Rhynish agents are instructed to thoroughly map the area, and make contact with the local tribes. -Celebrations across the country! With the establishment of Vriesstaad in Vriesia, the Government declares ownership in full of the new continent, and designates it as the Protectorate of Vriesia, to be administered by the newly appointed Kommandant-General, Rear-Admiral Rudolph Broeker. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FINANCE -2 new colonies are founded (8 M, 60’000 Kreuens) --Vriesstaad in Vriesa --Zoetveld in Middeiland -2 new Civilian Districts are built in Coenstaad (2 M, 20’000 Kreuens) -3 new Material Industry. (30’000 Kreuens) - 6 Vitriol, 3 Coal sold -12 Destroyers and 2 Light Cruisers are commissioned on behalf of Sechsia. (60’000 Kreuens Build Cost, compensated with 74’400 Kreuens.) -3 Heavy Cruisers and 3 Destroyers are commissioned on behalf of Acadia. (67'500 Kreuens, paid by Acadia.)

KONINKRIJK AADRENSVELD-RHYNSLAND Summer, 1890 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ MURDER! TWO DEAD, SIGNIFICANT POLICE INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY! Two bodies were discovered in the Reksville slums, in the city of Coenstaad, Friday last, at three pm. While the Coestaad Staadspolitie (CSP) initially declined to comment, the case has since been taken over by the Nationaal Politiebureau (NPB), who have confirmed that both victims died as a result of strangulation by garrote. Believing the deaths to be the work of a serial killer, the NPB have opened a full investigation, under the command of senior police officer, Major Martijn de Coninck. WAAKZAAMHEID DISCOVERS NEW CONTINENT, DE VRIES TO BE COMMENDED! The discovery of a new continent by ZMS Waakzaamheid earlier this year caused great jubilation and celebration within the nation - while the pride of the fleet, Waakzaamheid, and her commanding officer (Mikhail De Vries) are to remain on home station until further notice, ZMS Osterhoudt has been dispatched to further explore the new territories. This new discovery promises to usher in a new era of wealth and prosperity to Aadrensveld-Rhynsland and De Vries, Captain of Waakzaamheid, is to be commended with a knighthood. Furthermore, this new continent was officially designated as “Vriesia”, by Parliament in the last sitting. TREATY OF RJIKSTAAD FALLS THROUGH, EASTERN KATSUMORE-AADRENVELD-RHYNISH RELATIONS COOL! Talks with the Eastern Katsumore Clan collapsed early this week, as the delegates of Katsumore Iwamoto to the Rjikstaad talks opted to reject generous treaty terms out of hand. Tensions heighten as territorial concerns increase, and the First Skylord calls for further naval rearmament. FIRST SKYLORD CALLS FOR RENEWED NAVAL REARMAMENT PROGRAMME, IN LIGHT OF TANNIC AGGRESSIONS! Admiral Frederick Pijlmann, the First Skylord of the Admiralty, calls for renewed funding for a major naval rearmament programme, in light of recent Tannic aggression on the Continent. In an exclusive statement to the Varsthaven Gazette, Admiral Pijlmann said; “While I acknowledge there is little desire within the nation for interference in strictly Continental matters - excepting, of course, the needs of our allies in the Jena Pact - recent diplomatic and political developments make it vital for the swift rearmament of De Kroninkrijke Marine, which has been woefully understrength since the Reform of ‘84 decommissioned the Navy’s older, pre-dreadnought battle fleet.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Summer rain tinkled down rooftops and rattled through old, rotted drain pipes as a pair of tall figures strode through the muck and filth of the Reksville slums. Both wore the black jackets and white breeches of Nationaal Politiebureau Officers, and both hunkered under their heavy rain cloaks, desperately trying to ignore the rancid smell of the foulest, poorest slum in the capital. “Where were they found?” says the older of the two men, carefully inspecting each crime ridden alley way as he moved along. “In alleys down the Old Street, Dhr Major,” replies his aide, a police lieutenant known as Olaf van Hee “both were prostitutes, relatively young, undiseased.” He struggles through the muck, slipping slightly as he tries to push his rain cloak out of the way, so he can reach the notepad in his pocket. “Marguerite and Katrin - both called Voorgeld, but unrelated to each other. They both worked for Big Bjork Bjorkson down on the Diddlers’ Way.” The Major chuckles a little. “Of course they were both called Voorgeld. I suppose it’s a pragmatic name for women in their line of work.” The pair of men finally turn a corner, and the grim, ugly and smutish Diddlers’ Way comes into view. About halfway down the street, the two NPB officers find the sign they’re looking for - faded black writing on a cracked white background, reading simply “BIG BJORK’S BJORKERY”. Without wasting any more time, the Major, and Lieutenant van Hee, step inside, taking off their hats as they do so. As they step through the ancient, half rotten door, a rotund little man comes hurrying down the steps to greet them. “Officers, officers, it is unusual that we have custom so refined as yours down here, but worry not I shall send you the cleane-” “We are here on police business.” snaps Lieutenant van Hee, looking thoroughly offended “Are you Big Bjork Bjorkson?” The old man gives an uneasy kind of a laugh “No, no, I am Little Bjork, his father. Please, come through, my son will make time to see you now!!” He sidles towards a door, opposite a rickety staircase, with a plaque reading “OFFICE” in cracked lettering. Shifty, weasley eyes examining them as he opens the door and hurries in. “Come in! Come in!” The Major and the Lieutenant step through the door. Sitting directly opposite them is an enormous, muscle bound mountain, crammed in behind a cheap desk, sitting on a rickety chair, with reading glasses perched on his nose, and a typewriter carefully sat in front of him. “Big Bjork Bjorkson, I presume” calls the Major as he steps forwards “I am Major Martijn de Coninck, I have a few questions for you….” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ACTIONS -A second expedition is sent to do a more thorough exploration of these new territories. While ZMS Osterhoudt and her screens are instructed to remain within relatively easy distance of home, the warship and her escorts begin the exploration and categorisation of the surrounding areas, seeking areas abundant in resources, points of interest or native life. (Mod) -A delegation is sent to the Archduchy of Tyrel. The envoy seeks a suitable bride for Prince Franz-Heinrich van Aadrensveld, the eldest son of King Bartholomeus III. While this envoy would rather a bride from amongst the ruling Archducal Family, he is instructed to consider brides from the lesser aristocracy, provided they are accompanied by a suitable dowry of either coin or some kind of equivalent assets. (Mod) -New security concerns prompt the Chancellor, Johann Frederick van Alfrenz, to establish the Kantoor van de Nationaal Veiligheid (KNV), or the Office of National Security. The newly founded KNV begins to fill its ranks with talented officers from the army, navy and police forces. (4700 Kreuens) -The National Treasury takes a loan of 20'000 Kreuens from the Bantu baseZulwini. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FINANCE -6 Civilian Districts (60'000 Kreuens, 6 M) --1 Coal CD --4 Vitriol CDs --1 Luxuries CD -2 Material Industry (20'0000 Kreuens) -20 NP sold

KONINKRIJK AADRENSVELD-RHYNSLAND 1890 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The sun slowly rose, creeping inch by inch over the distant horizon, casting long shadows on the deck of warships as it rose slowly through the morning clouds and mist. Silent, oilskin-clad airmen raced across that slippery surface, barely faltering as they rushed to clear for action, as a shrill, piercing whistle cut the chill air. As the crew finished their preparations, one of their number - a groundsman, not yet even considered as Able - slips, hitting the deck hard and slipping violently across the steel floor. He lets out a shrill scream as he nears the edge, before being hauled violently to a stop by his safety harness. Harsh, abusive hands quickly pull the fool to safety. From the experienced hands, he receives no sympathy - the grounder had destroyed their division's time. Finally they reach the hatch that leads them into the steel belly of the vast beast, just as the guns begin their slow mechanical whine, rotating clockwise to a target off the port side. "Three minutes and eleven seconds, Captain." Reports a prim young Lieutenant with a pocket watch. The Captain, Mikeal de Vries, shakes his head, clearly irritated. "This is Waakzaamheid, Mr Janssen, three minutes and eleven seconds to stow the upper decks for action is far too slow - this is Waakzaamheid, and we are De Kroninkrijke Marine." He turns to look out the glass on the bridge. "Let us see if our gunnery is any better - have the guns fire as they bear." As the vast metal behemoth, now fully risen above the clouds, finally sights her target - an ancient, anchored hulk, once the battleship ZMS Vermetel, now used only as a gunnery target, her systems totally outdated. An enormous plume of fire streaks from the muzzle of the gun, and earth shattering noise follows the colossal explosion. The Gunnery Officer, in the prow turret, seizes a telephone as the shot misses, and listens intently to the instructions relayed to his over the phone. "Correction! 2 degrees starboard, 1 degree elevation!" Another shot roars from the enormous guns and, four kilometres of empty sky away, the shell strikes the midships of Vermetel and an enormous explosion rocks the aging vessel. Captain De Vries nods, pleased. Their gunnery was quick, and effective. "Mr Janssen, as officer of the watch please instruct the Wardroom that they are invited to dine with me tonight - it is only right for a new Captain to entertain his officers." As Janssen nods, De Vries leaves the bridge, stepping downstairs into his stateroom, where he carefully breaks open the letter with his orders, and reads the command written within.... ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ACTIONS -As the year begins, Waakhaamzeid and four destroyers are instructed to make a short routine patrol to the south-west, to investigate reports of a new continent, close enough to the Homelands to be easily influenced. Waakzaamheid, precious as it is, is instructed not to go far, and is ordered to run at the sign of any significant trouble. (Map in Discord) -The Archduchy of Tyrel is invited to open an embassy in the capital of Coenstaad. (Mod) -A small patrol is sent into the Coenstaad Caverns, where they are instructed to begin exploring and mapping the tunnels. (Mod) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FINANCE -4 Material Industry (40'000 Kreuens) -20 NP sold to the market (80'000 Kreuens from sale) 52700 Kreuens saved

Koninkrijk Aadrensveld-Rhynsland Capital: Coenstaad Official Languages: Thuis Praten-Natie, Lingua Herin Religion: Het Statsgelooft (87%), Hieromaric Church (8%), Miscellaneous (5%) Government: Semi-Constitutional Monarchy Head of State: Bartholomeus III Van Aadrensveld ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Kingdom of Aadrensveld-Rhynsland is a semi-constitutional monarchy, with an elected lower house of Parliament. Though Parliament bears responsibility for many aspects of national decision making, it is the King who holds executive authority. The chief officers of the state are selected by the King, who can appoint and dismiss these officials at will. Furthermore, the King serves as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, and is the primary decision maker in regards to foreign politics. Aadrensveld-Rhynsland is a prosperous, if small, nation, on the path of rapid industrialisation. Isolated for a significant portion of its history, Aadrensveld-Rhynsland only opened itself up to the world following the discovery of airships in 1791. Since then, Aadrensveld has been embroiled in a technological, social and industrial revolution. Aadrensveld-Rhynsland has undergone rapid urbanisation since the first opening of the country to the outside world, and the state has quickly turned from an agrarian, farming and rural based economy, into a fully industrialised state. Furthermore, as industrialisation has become more and more prevalent in the country, the desperate need for materials has also increased, which has led to many within the upper levels of government turning their eyes outwards, to the newly discovered New World. This new colonial focus meshes well with the government’s primary military focus – defence of the Fatherland by means of overwhelming airpower. Aadrensveld-Rhynsland has spent much of its history totally isolated and, as such, is not dominated by the Lingua Herin, speaking instead its own, unrelated language – Thuis Praten-Natie, literally “the national talk”. Furthermore, the religious makeup of the country is considerably different to that found in the outside world – in Het Statsgelooft, Hieromar the Progenitor is considered to be a single, all powerful diety, and the existence of the “Saints” and other “Grandmasters” is simply not acknowledged. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Aadrensveld was colonised in the final days of the Conflagration, by a desperate gang of refugees, led by a man called Aadrens. Over time, the nation developed here, under the guidance of the monarchy. In this long period of history, a very narrow strip of safe passage was found from Aadrensveld to the small neighbouring island – named Rhynsland, in honour of the then king, Rhyns I Van Aadrensveld. Since then the nation has persisted onwards, eventually becoming a semi-constitutional monarchy, following a series of major famines in the mid-1600s. Upon this change in government, the current national flag was adopted, featuring the Orange of Aadrensveld and the Blue of Rhynsland. In the early 1800s, the world finally took to the air. It was during this time that the country was finally opened up to outside influences, and since then the country has been steadily modernising, with an extreme burst of industrialisation and naval militarisation during the last decade in particular. Now, under the rule of Bartholomeus III, Aadrensveld-Rhynsland turns its eyes outwards, towards the New World, and the prospect of fresh rich and resources, with which to power its rapidly expanding industrial base, and to further expand the might of De Koninkrijke Marine, the main source of the Kingdom’s power. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Unique Military Units (Max 3): Osterhoudt-class Dreadnought Designed to serve in colonial or convoy raiding roles, the Osterhoudt-class is capable of serving as a main line battleship, as a raider or on independent action. The class is named for Admiral Lord Klaus van Osterhoudt, whose long service and prestigious career ensured his ennoblement following his retirement, and the honour of being named for a line of battle warship following his death. The Osterhoudt-class forms the core tenant in Aadrensveld-Rhynische naval doctrine – detailing a strong, versatile corps of dreadnoughts, capable of flexible action, as the primary wing of De Koninkrijke Marine. 5/5/5 dreadnought Majesteus-class Fleet Carrier The Majesteus-class is a long range fleet carrier designed for rapid strategic movement. Incredibly flimsy and poorly armed, the Majesteus is instead designed to travel immense distances, swiftly, at extreme altitudes, undetected. 5/1/1 carrier, +1 unit capacity Kuiper Sturm SAAG-89 The Sturm SAAG-89, manufactured by Kuiper airyards, is an advanced assault granship, designed specifically to attack enemy airships – capital ships, in particular. The SAAG-89 is equipped with a high power aerial torpedo, designed to punch through thick armour and do the maximum possible damage to the targeted ship. The SAAG-89 is also designed for long range missions, and is capable of traveling a great distance away from its base. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ National Idea: The Steel Horizon De Koninkrijke Marine (The Royal Navy), is by far Aadrensveld-Rhynsland’s primary military wing. The Navy receives most of the focus of the government, and as a result, the nation is home to a great many shipyards, and possesses a great deal of knowledge in the development and production of warships. -1 to capital ship construction time ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Point of Interest: ZMS Waakhaamzeid ZMS Waakhaamzeid is, without a doubt, the largest and most powerful warship in service in any navy in the world. She is faster, better armoured and better armed than any other craft, and is outfitted with enough comfort and luxury to please even the King. Waakhaamzeid serves as both the flagship of De Koninkrijke Marine, and as the Pride of the Fleet. Her duties, outside of her military functions, primarily involve representing the state of Aadrensveld-Rhynsland by carrying the King or the upper ministers on various visits to other nations. As befitting her status, Waakhaamzeid flies not only the naval jack and her Admiral’s pennant, but also the royal coat of arms and the national flag. Waakzaamheid is a unique vessel – she was repurposed from ancient technology discovered in an archaeological dig in Rhynsland. Waakhaamzeid is irreplaceable – unless another such relic of the past could be found, of course. A 6/6/6 dreadnought. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ National Traits: Military – Advanced Logistics Economy 1 – Industrial Giant Society – Coloniser Resource Deficiency – Textiles Army Doctrine – Air Power Naval Doctrine – Capital Ships Economy 2 – Heavy Industry

AGE OF RUIN https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqtttbbYfSM “Freeholder Infantry, the Battle of Arnau…” Autumn comes to the Broken Coast, as the leaves begin to fall from the trees. It is a cold, wet Fall this year, and heavy rains wash over the war torn region. Bloody conflict persists across the Broken Coast, as the armies of Einzner descend upon New Prospect and lay it under siege. So far, the conflict has been nothing but defeat following defeat for the Coalition, and a Munznenberger Corps is utterly defeated and scattered at the Battle of the Crossing, and a second battle in the region is imminent, as a second Munzenberg Corps moves to engage Iurd. In the north, fierce fighting erupts in Waltberg, as Pithish and Proctish troops engage General Kruger’s Army of the North in and around the city. The Shogunate, meanwhile, continues to do little of note. Einzner continues to fight hard for victory, and fresh Kempennenische corps are raised this year, in and around Volksburg. In Arnau, the last remnants of the Revolutionary Republic is crushed by Bob Kellum and his roving vagabonds. Westmark pushes into the last remnants of Middenland, and lays siege to the remaining stronghold of General Klein, the leader of the Military Authority. In the west, new developments arise, as an expeditionary force from the Concordat marches across the mountains, and claims much of the badlands for themselves. Konigreich Arktis-Munzenberg The Metternichische Freikorps is raised, some 15 thousand green regular infantry, 6 thousand green light cavalry and 5 thousand regular heavy infantry. Telegraph research begins. (Discord) Tsardom of Ligmagrad B7 falls to the Tsar, but B9 resists, as the Church once again rears up its ugly head The 24th Expeditionary Legion A5 is claimed. The lowlands of A4 are claimed, but the mountains are filled with savage, curse ridden madmen, who raid the outposts established every night. Before long, Legionaries are forced to withdraw from the area. There is no problem building railways to neighbouring countries. The Concordat is pleased. (Discord) Westmark Republik Westmark’s war against the last remains of Mittelland continues. Yashida Bakufu The Shogun shall have a basic network of iron roads constructed by Spring 3252. Kawahkwara Shogunate Westerveld receives the ambassador. (Discord) The hunt for magicians begins. (Discord) The Commonwealth The war continues, as Einzner fights hard to crush his foes, one by one.

Wrong sub-forum

Wrong forum guys, this forum is for play-by-post roleplay games. Totally unrelated to LOTC.

AGE OF RUIN “Freeholder Infantry at the Battle of Jamesvale…” Winter, 3250 After the Departure https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2W1Wi2U9sQ As the last leaves wither and fall, the grass dies back. The nights grow long and the days grow short. The few still foolish enough to fight in these months must leave their dead where they lie, for the ground has frozen hard, and burial is no longer possible. Winter has come, and all pray now for the return of Spring. Tragedy strikes in the Kingdom of Artkis, as old King Klaus, respected and revered, finally breathes his last. Ill for several years, the late monarch passed away in his sleep, to the dismay of his lady wife and his four daughters. With neither a son or any close male family, the nobility conferrs in parliament for several days on who should take the Artkis throne. After a week of deliberations, this parliament votes to offer the crown to Reinhardt von Hausser, King of Munzenberg, a powerful neighbour, and also husband to Klaus von Holle’s eldest daughter. Long live the King! Tensions rise in the far west where Mirasol continues to watch the expansions of her two closest neighbours with rising trepidation. Feeling isolated and clearly soon to be surrounded by their unfriendly neighbours, Mirasol takes the drastic action of inviting the Concordat into the country, giving all contracts for supplying the Royal Army and Royal Navy over to the great power, along with signing a number of treaties that invite the Concordat to reform the Mirasolian military. The Triumvirs have finally gained their first foothold in the Broken Coast. Winter has arrived, but that has not stopped the bitter fighting in the Bush War. Though the war is as of yet undeclared, the forces of the Freeholders’ Republic and Middenland met at the small town of Jamesvale for pitched battle, to decide control of the Bush, an inhospitable area of dense trees and harsh brush, separating the two nations. Though the battle was fought in late November, no knowledge of the result has yet spread beyond Middenland or the Freehold, slowed by the coming of Winter. Kempennen says nothing further to the Commonwealth on the subject of Kessler - though their ambassador delivers a rather fiery letter declaring his thoughts on the subject to President Harriman. Despite von Einzner’s silence, the “Tyrant” has opted to heavily man the border between the two countries, and the FIC hears rumours of further military reform, with talk of the Potentate creating a dedicated artillery reserve corps, for army level control of artillery support. Westerveld continues to build their iron road, working hard even in the winter to lay the tracks across the vast, flat plains. In the north, Jan Sharps’ Commando still hunkers down on the border of Middenland, guarding the border from the Veld’s treacherous and warmongering neighbours. Yashida Bakufu Though the war has been painful and bloody, and not short of humiliations for the Shogun and his ambitions, the recent victories against the Jizuru Clan, and the fact Field Marshal Gorou lays siege to Jizu has done much to sanitise the world’s image of Yashida arms, leading to some prestige for the small state. (+2 Prestige) Konigreich Munzenberg With the death of his father-in-law, Reinhardt II von Haussen is invited by the nobility of Artkis to assume the Throne, to rule as monarch and protector of the Konigreich Artkis. (Discord) (+3 Prestige) The King’s scientists report that a working locomotive will be available in the Spring of 3251. Konigreich Zunderland A force of Mujahideen roll down from the mountains and seize the Outsiders bridge in E5, occupying it, in an attempt to cut off the line of retreat for Zunderland’s Royal Army. (Discord) Sugondasigrad The Tsar’s horsemen spend a harsh winter galloping around D1, subduing the mostly empty region’s sparse tribes, who are largely happy to accept the Tsar’s authority, on the off chance it might improve their miserable lot even a little bit. Probably not though, you know how it is with Tsars. The Kawahara Shogunate Kawahara finally finishes its conquests of F33. The rapidly approaching winter prevents the conquest of F32, however, and the army is forced to withdraw into friendlier territories, lest they be exposed to that frigid climate. The Commonwealth Little of note happens in the Commonwealth, over the course of these few months, though Kessler apparently chases off what he describes as “an enemy patrol”, on the northern border. Regardless of what the truth of the incident may be, the General’s claimed victory stands the Commonwealth in good stead. (+2 Prestige) The Kingdom of Procteland Procteland marches into F31, and manage to bring the King's rule to the province. The Vrenian Principality The concert is a resounding success, and musicians of great renown arrive from all around the Broken Coast to play. Even an officer of the Concordat, stationed in Mirasol to train their troops, but a renowned artist all the same, arrives to compete. The most popular performer is an unsponsored man from Soglasigrad, however, and his grand performance is the one that summons the New Year. Pyotr Tchadvoksy plays in the New Year, with an incredibly rousing piece in the Tsar’s honour, concluding in a massive crescendo to the thundering of a dozen 12 pounders rolled up onto the stage (to the shock, and delight, of the concert attendants). (+3 Prestige for Vrena, +2 Prestige for the Tsar.) The attempts to map Klandestan are not met kindly, and the KKK’s Sentinels waste no time in making this opinion known to the trespassers. While they have no weapons fit to actually sink the airships, they quickly take to climbing to the heights of their enormous mountains, and taking potshots with what appears to be highly advanced rifles. A dozen would-be cartographers meet their end this way, and the airships are forced to desist, lest they lose too much trained talent. The Relic arrives to the university safely, and the copy-pasted Felsen character quickly begins her study of it. (Discord) Though Vrena easily subdues C4, it fails to make headway in C5, where it meets heavy resistance from followers of the Church, who appear to be combing the area for something. With neither foot nor artillery available, Vrena is unable to dislodge these zealots. Westmark Republik The actions of Middenland have turned public support in both Westerveld and Westmark against their mutual neighbour. The Parliament of Westerveld is more than happy to accept the Westmarksiche delegation, and are glad to listen to what they have to say. Eidgenossenschaft Middenland All is quiet in the east and the south, with Westerveld and Westmark both petulantly sitting, staring across the border at their near neighbours. Meanwhile, the War in the Bush continues, even through the Winter months... Freeholders’ Republic The war continues in the Bush, and Bob Kellum shows no signs of backing down…. Mujahideen The Mujahideen seize the bridge, cutting off the King’s line of retreat.. (Discord)

AGE OF RUIN “General Ishikawa Kais leads his men across the border into Yashida lands…” Autumn, 3250 After the Departure The days grow colder, the nights grow shorter. The sweet odours of the dying season hangs in the air, as leaves colour and fall, while flowers wilt and die. A short time of haunting beauty comes with the pleasant Autumn breeze, as the harshness of Winter grows ever closer. In the early days of summer, a conflict known as the Fools’ War of 3250 erupted, between the nations of Westmark and Middenland. Though the conflict was short, with both sides displaying criminal cowardice and indecisiveness in their military planning, it still came at a cost of several thousand lives, as the capitals of both transgressors were shelled heavily in the inconclusive fighting. Peace came bare months after war was declared, after Middenland declared the entire conflict to be the fault of Westerveld. Westerveld’s Parliament, understandably upset, has proceeded to denounce Middenland, and to embargo them, henceforth prohibiting the passage of all Mittelandische goods through Westerveld. Additionally, Parliament has cut diplomatic ties with the country, deported any of its citizens and withdrawn its own ambassadors. The divisions of Kommandant-General Sharps’ Commando have been stationed in defensive positions along the border, lest the treacherous Middenlanders attempt to use their false accusations as a cassus belli. Huge fanfare erupts in the ports of the Commonwealth, as the Kesslerische Freikorps and its commander, the dashing and daring General, the Lord, Heinrich von Kessler, Count of Zaunschweig arrives. Kessler accepts commission as a Lieutenant-General in the Commonwealth’s Army, as well as authorisation to raise his Freikorps, in a clear move by the Commonwealth against Joszef von Einzner. Kessler fled Kempennen after the defeat of the Lord Governor-Generals, the old aristocracy of the nation, at the hands of von Einzner after the Battle of Volksburg. As one of the senior most remaining members of that old rebellion, Kessler has sworn to tear down von Einzner’s incredibly popular rule. Since the General’s arrival in the Commonwealth, he has wined and dined his way through half of the city, and has reportedly bedded the wives and daughters of nearly all of the Commonwealth’s senior ministers, in the fashion of a true hussar. Jozsef von Einzner, meanwhile, has reacted poorly to the news, and has issued an immediate demand to the Commonwealth for the General’s extradition, citing von Kessler to be “...a rebel and enemy of the state…”. The Jizuru Clan, victorious against the invading Yashida Shogunate at the Battle of Tsurei, do not cower and wait for the return of the enemy invader. Not long after their victory at Tsurei, Lieutenant-General Ishikawa Kais, long standing servant of the Jizuru Daimyo, leads his army across the border and into Shogunate territory, seeking to inflict a decisive defeat upon their enemies, and to end the war on favourable terms. ---------- Yashida Bakufu War! Following the disaster at Tsurei, the Jizuru army presses on, launching an offensive into Yashida lands during the autumn months! Konigreich Munzenberg Wedding time! Humina humina humina!!!!! The people of these two proud nations rejoice! Konigreich Zunderland The lands to the south (C1) are somewhat less barren and desecrated than the regions around them. They even host a small number of settlements and petty, insignificant nations. Beyond the rocks (A4), they discover the land to be a lawless, barren, waste. Teeming with horribly dangerous creatures, derelict structures half buried beneath the seas of rock, sand, and glass. Among them are small parties of Ruiners who seem to be perpetually picking through this wasteland in search of lost treasures. General Elsteeden marches south, crossing the great bridge before decisively crushing the small tribal confederation which had previously resisted the Zunderlandische in the spring. Unfortunately, they find the area to already be partially occupied by the Mujahideen. (50%) Sugondasigrad The Tsar’s cavalry continues its ride north. Upon entering the targeted region, they clash with a sizable group of Church Clerics, Paladins, and Crusaders, as well as a small horde of their loyal militants already present in the area for some reason or another. The conflict does not escalate into anything beyond a handful of brutal skirmishes, but the Tsar’s cavalry, lacking much infantry support, is unable to pacify much ground. The Church has established itself in a handful of minor settlements and villages, and numbers at least a few thousand. They show no sign of leaving any time soon. Alexei’s Engineers estimate they will have a workable “iron road” for the fall of 3251 The Kawahara Shogunate Envoys arrives from both the Concordat and Kaph. (Discord) Telegrams will be ready by Autumn, 3252. The Pith border appears to be only moderately staffed, by shoddy, poorly trained troops. Fighting continues in E20, and the province is eventually conquered by late summer. Progress in F33 is somewhat reduced by the mountain crossing, and only half the province is taken by the end of summer. The Commonwealth Kempennen demands the extradition of Heinrich von Kessler and the Kesslerische Freikorps. (Discord) The Commonwealth will have a working Locomotive prepared for the fall of 3251. The Kingdom of Procteland The Iron legion marches beyond the western river, claiming yet more land for the Kingdom. Their attempts to cross the mountains are thwarted midway through by a number of small avalanches as well as the emergence of several small groups of thinking-metal soldiers, all reported to bear a “B” insignia. The Vrenian Principality The Queen Amelia Piano Concert appears to be a great success, as it hasn’t actually happened yet! Many private musicians from across the Broken Coast show interest in attending, as well as many from Mirasol. The KKK have yet to reply to this invitation, and many suspect it will probably remain that way. Maps are made to the best of their ability. Klandestan accepts, as does Westerveld. Ass-storm’s division is able to secure and integrate a portion of the wastelands over the course of the summer. During his expedition, his army roots out a small band of Ruiners found excavating an Outsider ruin. They are overpowered in short order, and among their belongings is a Holy Relic which they had apparently uncovered. Ass-storm has it sent back to the capital at once. The team estimates they will have working telegrams for use by fall of 3252. The study of logistics as a science has reached its current peak. The chemists reason they will have a water resistant fabric which could easily be mass produced and issued to the military prepared for summer of 3251. Westmark Republik The Republik will have a working Locomotive prepared for the winter of 3251. The Government’s investigation finds no evidence of foreign involvement in the situation which sparked the brief war between Westmark and its neighbor. Eidgenossenschaft Middenland The Middlandische effort to colonize the bush regressed significantly in the brief months in which their army was forced to withdraw from the area. Torching what holdings they had gained during their retreat does not help matters either. Upon reentering the province, it is clear that the inhabitants of the area are wholly in support of resistance. A full military invasion and subsequent occupation of the region will be necessary. Middlandische engineers estimate their locomotives and railways will be ready for the fall of 3251. Freeholders’ Republic The clever boys up in the science building swears they’ll have Concertina bombs ready for next spring! The boys galavant south into swathes of previously unclaimed bush (E13). Here they find the folks to be in a bit of an uproar about some middle-ladder-ers (a bunch o’ drongos and bogans really) tryna take em all over or some jazz. They say these freeholders seem like nice blokes, though, and the whole province apart from the parts occupied by the Mittelandische have joined the republic. Mujahideen The brave Mujahideen finally break out of the mountains and highlands of the province only to find that the rest of the province has been occupied by strange infidels from beyond the river…. Vyacheslav Confederacy The Confederacy makes little headway in their research. The properties and uses of gunpowder is a rather new rediscovery, all things considered, and they simply do not know of similar substances or even a way to improve the explosive yield.