ThatFunkyBunch

☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺☽ [!] A missive is pinned within Nor'asath. ☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺☽ I, Daichia Jusmia, recalls and so states. A vision of the spirits have alarmed me. The Betrayer of Aerial returns. Our true enemy, our scorn. Iblees returns. A vision of the spirits showed me such. The Arch Daemon snarls at mortal kind. Prepare.... Prepare.... For the Third Dread War be upon us.

Qudlia Jusmia stares at the reflective pool. Watching every step of Acria. "You think I do not love you. You are wrong. I watch, always. I merely made room for you daughter. I await your visit. My daughter, you shall be the Primarch I never was. I never could be. For I love you so. It was you I placed all hope to. But I never said such..."

A ker suddenly falls over in the streets. Awakening in a cold sweat. Panic filling his form. "The Arch Daemon.."

Some shaman sits besides a skull candle. Of the magi that had invoked the art of blood at the wedding. "A hallow day...but not for you, my friend. Not, for, you." The dark elf chuckled, flicking the skull that belonged to Kina.

A Ker shaman sits back, and reflects. He had agreed to defend the shrine. Though something stirred in the Maehr. Memories of his youth, where the young spiritualist had cut down Shades and Voidal horrors along side the Azdrazi. What had truly changed so? Their actions against the pharaoh were intolerable. Yet the Pharaoh seemed wise. This issue stemmed from generations of hate bred towards the actions of few. Staining the name of the descendants of the fifth Brother. He would rise soon after. It was time to seek answers himself. Isuz called, and the Maehr was never one to ignore a spirits beckon. Perhaps, peace could be achieved. Though his heavy heart he buried himself. For if it could not be settled, he would have to defend his spiritualist cousins.

Some Ker shaman nods his head a few times. "Elves."

Bless

Event moved to Wednesday 5:PM EST

𝕍 𝔸 𝕌' 𝕃 𝕆 ℤ ☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺ A game to the Spirits. A Missive it pinned to the walls of Nor'asath, near by settlements, and its allies. ☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺ ☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺ A new age beckons forth new and old champions. The Vau'jerian Ker welcome the land to compete in the first task of Vau'loz. The brazier has been lit in the lands of Nor'asath. The games shall begin. Daichia Jusmia has taken up the mantle of Game Master and Task Master. Vau'loz ends once the final trial has finished and a champion has been named. ☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺ THE RULES 1. Competitors are forbidden from using of performance enhancing substances before and during a trial of Vau'loz. 2. The use of magics or magical items are forbidden before and during a trial of Vau'loz. 3. Unless a trial of Vau'loz calls for it, attacking, or sabotage of another competitor is forbidden. 4. Each trial will have their own rules and regulations. ☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺ THE FIRST TRIAL: Votar The first trial of Vau'loz shall take place in the mushroom and cherry blossom forest of Nor'asath. At the start of this competition, competitors shall gather around the Vau'loz brazier where each shall have their equipment regulated and checked. The trial ends when the creature selected by the game master has been slain by the hands of one of the competitors. The victor shall gain a Vau'loz seal, ensuring them a place in the Final Trial, in addition to some alchemical goods and an item of their own making or anothers' to be blessed of the spiritual realm of the hunt. Approved Equipment for the Trial of Votar. One main arm (Spear, long swords, hammer.) One side arm (Bow, dagger, shortswords.) Five Utility Items (No Alchemy, traps allowed, water skins, hunting equipment, baits, scent maskers, climbing equipment.) One set of armor and or disguise of competitors choice. Bed roll, and or tent. Means to cook. Three days worth of rations. A single pack, with mundane or non-magical/non-alchemical medical equipment and solutions (Up to six). Rules of the First Trial 1. No shamanic magics or other magics may be used during this trial. 2. No use of alchemical items. 3. Sabotage of other competitors traps is allowed, their other equipment may not be touched. 4. No outside aid, competitors may decide to form teams, but only one victor can be named. 5. The use of toxins or poisons from outside means is disallowed. Competitors may use the local herbs in the hunting grounds. 6. A competitor may forfeit at any time and receive medical attention. Doing so disqualifies them for this trial. Address this missive by attachments of parchment below. An official shall be around to verify their legitimacy. ☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺ OOC

Tanness Smov consumes great amount of breads. "Nice...you all are nerds." The magi cackles for a moment.

A towering mass of chitin runs its antenna all over the paper. Before it, devours the paper.

CLAN JUSMIA ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ SECT ZIRCON ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Zircon was the fifth and final child of Jus and Mia. A slender Mali’ker that saw the world through the eyes of a jaded scholar. Those of his sect in the ancient days believed him the reincarnation of the first Wau’ner. The elven family Jus and Mia came from. Sent forth to ensure Jusmia remained no matter what. Zircon sought understanding of the material world, its building blocks. Creation. Understanding the Aenguldaemons which war in the stars above. Zircon became enthralled with the spirits for once reason alone. The pact between shaman and spirit served both sides, these spirits changed with the mortals, and their reward was a true paradise where stagnation was killed in the fires of the realms of Stargush’Stroh. Zircon sought the might to ensure his kin would ever go forward. His ideals often crashed with his eldest brother, Agate. The two rarely agreed on much. It was Zircons use of blood which drove Agate against him in the end. During the fall of Magara’lin, Garnet was slain. Both Sects Zircon and Garnet watched as Zircon used the corpse of Garnet to fuel the arcane machinations of the caster in the final moments of Magara’lin, which grew hostility and paranoia between the rest of the clan and Zircon. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Zircons’ Function in Jusmia ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Zircon is the first and last line of defense of Jusmia. These Jusmia are tasked with the documentation of otherworldly magics, their effects, how to counteract them, and understanding of their nature. Those of Zircon find themselves in a state of near constant travel. Zircon plays with fire, undertaking tasks that the rest of the clan simply refuses to or entrust of Zircon. The knowledge gathered by Zircon of the world around them is returned constantly to the rest of the clan. Zircon itself retains strange and eldritch rituals which they invoke to prepare the clan for the threats beyond the veil. Zircon tetters the fine line of morality. As their work often requires them to undertake horrific tasks which go against the ideals of Jusmia. For this, upon returning from such heretical missions. Those of Zircon perform near constant worship and praise of the spirits in their downtime to ensure their entrance of Stargush’Stroh. To those of Zircon, words like defeat, victory, honor, dishonor mean little. There is but one truth to the world. Survival. Those of Zircon are to make elven weekly reports of their travels and interactions to the Head of Sect Zircon, which then issues these reports to the Head of Sect Ruby ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Zircons’ Ideology & Spiritual Theorem. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Zircon recognizes the right of other worldly beings to exist. It is vital to the balance of the world. But to them, the spirits hold true as the rightful lords of the material world. For only they are shaped by its actions as taught by Carnelian. Azdrazi, Paladins, Druids, are eldritch but required pieces in the mortal coil, and Zircon may often implore favours with these beings to achieve their own ends. That of the void is carefully watched, as it historically has caused the most damage. Further, those of Zircon believe it vital to keep their fingers close to the pulse of shamans. As shamans which seek to create a second cataclysm of the level seen during the Orgonic Plague surely remain out there. Zircon can not condone the use of manipulating of the soul stream. That which is divine ought not be interfered upon. Yet these beings of divinity ought never seek true control of the material world. Their place is beyond the veil, as the Creator intended. Modern members of Zircon reband to create strife with the being known as Ixili. Traveling far and wide to hunt this creature and put an end to it. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Zircon Tatau ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Zircon Tatau is given upon completion of Sect Trials. These are mortal markings or shamanic markings as proof of growth. Tatau of Zircon Granted upon adoption to Sect Zircon. Tatau of Tenacity Granted Upon Completion of Sect Zircon Tencacity Trials Tatau of Caution Granted Upon Completion of Sect Zircon Theruz Trials Tatau of Wodanaz Given upon completion of Sect Zircon Wodanaz Trials. Tatau of the Beast Given upon Completion of Sect Zircon Beast Trials. Tatau of Divnity Given upon Completion of Sect Zircon Divinity Trials. Tatau of Kor Given upon Completion of Sect Zircon Kor Trials ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Zircon Trials ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ To be counted among the Zircon, the Jusmia must perform and complete at the very least, two Zircon Trails and be marked by their tatau by another Jusmia as proof of completion. Once two trials have been completed, they are marked with the Tatau of Zircon. Trial of Tenacity Those who undertake this trial are survivors of horrors from beyond the veil. In the force of Inferic battles, to the wars waged by aenguldaemons or deities that spill onto the material world, in addition to survival of sieges upon voidal tear or similar rifts which welcome other worldly influence. Upon completion and proof is given to other Jusmia, the Tatau of Tenacity is marked upon them. Trial of Caution Those who undertake this trial are tasked with the full documentation of orders, religions, warrior sects, or general plots which would threaten the life of mortals due to its nature. These documents are to be submitted to Sect Ruby. Upon completion, the Tatau of Caution is granted. Trial of Wodanaz Those who undertake this trial are tasked with the full documentation of non deity magical orders, magics, magical arts, the abilities of magi, the use of mana in different applications. To be observed, never practiced if it threatens the Zircons place in Stargush’Stroh. These documents are to be submitted to Sect Ruby. Upon completion, the Tatau of Wodanaz is granted. Trial of the Beast Those who undertake this trial are tasked with the pacification of a Dark Ancestral Spirit, or known in the modern age as Inferi. Be it lethal, or invoking proper banishment to the Moz Strima or any plane of existence that is not the material world. Proof is to be brought to others of Jusmia in the form of the creature's head or any limb as proof of slaying. Eye witness accounts are desired for banishment. Once completed. The Tatau of the Beast is granted. Trial of Divinity Those who undertake this trial are tasked with the documentation of any deity based magic in the material world. Its abilities, and create a doctrine of what they believe its function to be and purpose in the material world. How these invokers use their mana to connect to these beings, ideologies of these groups and arts. In addition to the documentation of any deity based threat against the material world. Once completed, proof given. The Tatau of Divinity is granted.

CLAN JUSMIA ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ SECT GARNET ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Garnet was the fourth born of Jus and Mia. A towering Mali’ker of imposing might. Garnet found life simple. There was little room of middleground, there was no black or white, nor rainbow of confusion in Garnets mind. Life, simply was. The weak would seek protection, the strong would offer it if they so desired. For Jusmia, Garnet so desired. Within the ancient city of Magara’lin, Garnet served as muscle for hire in her youth. Before the Azulian heresy drove her attention to Uradas. She became a Vindicator of Magara’lin. From this day, she served alongside the Vindicators. Those of her Sect were the muscles of Jusmia. To secure the clan from physical threats. Garnet died in Magara’lin, yet not in vain.. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Garnets’ Function in Jusmia ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Garnet serves as the enforces of Jusmia. This Sect of the clan upholds the Laws of the Ruby Senate and maintains observation of Clan Jusmia. Those that violate the Laws of the Ruby Senate are handled as the discretion of Sect Garnet. In addition to serving as the defenders of Jusmia, Sect Ruby reserves the ability to burn documents of Jusmia is the Clan Lord of Jusmia and the Head of Sect Garnet decide documents or information is harmful to the clan as a whole. Those of Garnet train vigorously to maintain their body and martial ability. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Garnet’ Ideology & Spiritual Theorem. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Those of Sect Garnet are to maintain discipline, yet this Sect tetters of the edge of rage. For its dealings bring forth the worst in mortal kind. To see violence scars the mind. Thus the mind must be forged anew time after time to counteract the ancient curse of Azul. Sect Garnet puts their faith in Dazkur beyond most. As this spirit embodies their views of their clan. To defend and protect it. Followed closely by Kezt, for honor in blood is hallow. The spirits deserve praise for one reason and one reason alone. They operate on the means of the world. The weak seek the strong, or attempt to climb the ranks to gain strength themselves. For this, praise of Leyd is far from uncommon in this Sect of Jusmia. The modern Sect Garnet turns to reflection. To learn where and when to act, who and what to defend. To find understanding of the mortal coil, and disway needless bloodshed of the blood of the Four Brothers. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Garnet Tatau ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Garnet Tatau is given upon completion of Sect Trials. These are mortal markings or shamanic markings as proof of growth. Tatau of Garnet Granted upon adoption to Sect Garnet. Tatau of Dazkur Granted Upon Completion of Sect Garnet Dazkur Trials Tatau of Leyd Granted Upon Completion of Sect Garnet Leyd Trials Tatau of Votar Given upon completion of Sect Votar Trials Tatau of the Vindicator Given upon Completion of Sect Garnet Trials ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Garnet Trials ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ To be counted among the Garnet, the Jusmia must perform and complete at the very least, two Garnet Trails and be marked by their tatau by another Jusmia as proof of completion. Once two trials have been completed, they are marked with the Tatau of Garnet. Trial of Dazkur Those who undertake this trial are tasked with the defense of another Jusmia in a life threatening situation, in addition to the defense of mortal life in two separate occasions. Once completed, and proof given to other Jusmia, they are marked with the Tatau of Dazkur. Trial of Leyd Those who undertake this trial are tasked with the non-lethal overpowering of a warrior. A challenge for a spar without weapons to be issued to another warrior mortal. Upon defeating the rival warrior through non-fatal means. Proof is given to the other Jusmia, and they are marked with the Tatau of Leyd. Trial of Votar Those who undertake this trial are tasked with the slaying of a dangerous monster or creature. Upon completion of this trial, and proof is brought to other Jusmia. They are marked with the Tatau of Votar. Trial of the Vindicator Those who undertake this trial are tasked with the pacification of an Azulite. Through lethal or non-lethal ways. If the Azulite is too far gone beyond reason, and their path can not be swayed from the mark of Azul. Those who take this trial are then tasked with the slaying of the Azulite. If the Azulite is not too far gone beyond reason, they are to be reformed by those who take this trial. Once completed and proof is given to other Jusmia. They are marked with the Tatau of the Vindicator.

CLAN JUSMIA ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ SECT RUBY ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Ruby was the third-born child of Jus and Mia. Ruby in early life turned her focus to the laws of Magara’lin and the laws of other realms. She studied statecraft with her father, Jus. In early adulthood, Ruby took up public service to the city of Magara’lin. Performing mundane tasks as record keeping. In addition to the recording of members of Jusmia, their roles and sects. Ruby focused her intent on the writings of the mortal world, for in them she found understanding and patience weighed true beyond all else. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Rubys’ Function in Jusmia ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Ruby serves as the Clans voice of reason. Upholding decisions made by the collective clan, recording the actions of members. Adoptees, what resources are spent and traded between Sects, as well as outside nations or populations of mortals. They maintain in the home isle of Reza’jer, the Hall of Theruz. Where documents as complex as ancient treaties to mundane writings as Birth Certificates are stored. Sect Ruby approves, and validates ledgers of all Sects. Each Sect of Jusmia is to give in an elven monthly report to the head of Sect Ruby on their activities. In addition, Sect Ruby maintains and creates laws and regulations for Clan Jusmia. These laws require the vote and agreement of three out of the five Sect Heads of Jusmia. Sect Ruby calls forth the clan to hold Ruby Courts. Where every member of Jusmia is welcome to come and weigh their input of clan matters to be voted upon by the clan. Sect Ruby holds the authority of the Ruby Senate. A group of Jusmia that answer to the Head of Sect Ruby, which revise, adapt, create the Laws of the Ruby Senate. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Rubys’ Ideology & Spiritual Theorem. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Those of Ruby maintain serenity in their lives, as law is order, and order is the boon of life. It is not uncommon for those of Ruby to study the statecraft of cities. Taking pieces of it back to the clan to be implemented in the rulings of the Ruby Senate. Luara sits atop all, as Mother Moon. Thus serenity must be maintained. Those of modern Ruby begin to revise the ancient laws of the Ruby Senate, to ensure they maintain this serenity. Those of Ruby often venture to joining other sects between their workings for Ruby. The spirit Velkumezt holds great favour in this Sect, as the Spirit of Law, Order, and cities aligns greatly with the ideals Ruby naturally reflects in their work. Genthuraz follows next, as the lord of industry and the patreon spirit of Jusmia. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Rubys’ Tatau ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Ruby Tatau is given upon completion of Sect Trials. These are mortal markings or shamanic markings as proof of growth. Tatau of Ruby Granted upon adoption to Sect Ruby. Tatau of Velkumezt Granted Upon Completion of Sect Ruby Velkumezt Trials Tatau of Order Granted Upon Completion of Sect Ruby Order Trials Tatau of State Granted Upon Completion of Sect Ruby State Trials Tatau of Law Given upon completion of Sect Ruby Law Trials Tatau of Senate Given upon Completion of Sect Ruby Senate Trials ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Sect Ruby Trials ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ To be counted among the Ruby, the Jusmia must perform and complete at the very least, two Ruby Trails and be marked by their tatau by another Jusmia as proof of completion. Once two trials have been completed, they are marked with the Tatau of Ruby. The trials of Ruby are ones completed over years. Patience is key. Trial of Velkumezt Granted upon the completion of all Sect Ruby Trails: Trail of Order, Trial of State, Trial of Law, Trial of Senate. Trial of Order Ruby trails revolve around matters of law and state. The Trial of Order entails that who is undertaking the trial is able to disway conflict between any two mortals. Using words and simple reasoning or logic alone. No force can be applied for this trial, for it violates Serenity. Once completed, and proof given to another Jusmia. The Tatau of Order is granted. Trial of State Ruby trails revolve around matters of law and state. The Trail of State requires dedication and time. Those who are undertaking the trial gain the ability to revise and make any measure of amendment to any mortal settlements own statecraft, be it in the form of laws, regulation, or beyond. Once proof is given to another Jusmia. The Tatau of State is granted. Trial of Law Ruby trails revolve around matters of law and state. The Trial of Law, entails that who is undertaking the trial draft a revision or amendment to the Laws of the Ruby Senate, that is reviewed and taken to a Ruby Court. The trial requires that this law passed the voting process of the Ruby Court. Once completed, the Tatau of Law is granted. Trial of Senate Ruby trails revolve around matters of law and state. The Trial of the Senate requires the approval of the Head of Sect Ruby to undertake. Those who undertake this trial are required to host three Ruby Courts, where matters of Jusmia are to be voted upon by doctrine that those who are taking the trial have created. In order for the trial to be completed, more than half of the voting body must vote in favor of the new doctrine. Once completed, the Tatau of Senate is granted.

⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Official proceedings of Clan Jusmia. Nuz'xou inex pu purro xiu pu troe'q okjuku'k. ⋟⊶⊷⋞〄⋟⊶⊷⋞ Gusiam Jusmia: Head of Sect Carnelian. Clan Lord of Jusmia as of the 10th of Snows Maiden. This will remain so until Gusiam Jusmia relinquishes the mantle or passes into Stargush’Stroh. Daichia Jusmia: Head of Sect Agate. Delphi Jusmia: Head of Sect Garnet. Lenora Jusmia: Head of Sect Ruby. Elyona Jusmia: Head of Sect Zircon. On matters of function: Clan Lord of Jusmia reserves the right to summon members of the clan to speak to on any topic they regard as pressing. Each Sect Head reserves the ability to vote on matters of Jusmia. The Clan Lord may only vote on motions pertained by Sect Heads or members of Jusmia. All members of Jusmia retain the right to vote on matters brought up in meetings of the Ruby Court. {The gathering of Jusmia to discuss matters of the clan are to be known as Ruby Courts.} The Clan Lord of Jusmias’ vote counts as a Swing Vote. If a vote is tied, their vote decides the outcome.

After the heated exchange of matters of state, Qudlia Jusmia could take no more. There was no Ghoraza to stop her. Freedom would be hers. Thus the Maehr plummeted from the rooftop of the Nor'asath palace. The shaman wakens in grey sands, she looks younger. Wearing chitin bound orange garbs. Carrying with her the banner of her Clan Sect. Garnet. Qudlia Jusmia was free. Free from the shamans, free from the dark elves, free from the Uruk. Slowly, she strides forward to greet an old friend. The Gatekeeper of Stargush'Stroh. "Is it finally time?" She asks. The graven towering spirit gave but a nod. Holding a set of scales, its hand reaching out to pry open the vast gates. With a noble step forward, Qudlia Jusmia enters Stargush'Stroh. Settling into the boat of Matum'Lur. Not once did she look back. She was free, and no one could stop her. Paradise awaits.

VITALISM IS THE WAY

☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺☽ [!] A missive is pinned within Nor'asath. ☾༻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻☾ꈊ☽⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻༺☽ To the Primarch of Nor’asath, to whom which agreements mean moot and whims sway like the wind. That of Onyx remains firm in the binding Concordat signed between us. Yet in our exchanges, you have gone against the Concordat signed. You violated Both Articles V and VI of Political Affairs. Claims of this Concordat are invalid, simply because you now desire so. The haze of your inability to uphold a simple document within but two elven days bears the soundness or rather, un-soundness of your mind. Yee of scorned faith who claims protection and counter-measures have made the steps towards direct division. Onyx has offered to meet once again as outlined in Article V, yet you refuse. Seeking rather an advantage over that which is Onyx. No vantage will be gained, nor disadvantage granted. We will meet as the Concordat remains binding, least you risk violation of this hallowed doctrine. I give you one last chance and bring this to the public. We are to meet as spoken in Article V, before this Concordat can be dissolved, or altered. Do not squander the waning serenity Luara can grant me, young Primarch. You have two elven weeks to arrange the meeting as outlined in Article V of the Concordat. Sincerely, The Primarch of Onyx. Primarch of Onyx, Clan Lord of Jusmia, Herald of Zircon.

War on the horizon of Braevos. [!] Missives flood across the land, with a crude image and words drawn upon it. Time shifts ever on. Already the mortal races are at each others throats. I, a simple elf, believe there to be a solution to honor the Brothers of Brev that died to secure us this land. The Grand Kingdom of Urguan and the Kingdom of Norland, to gather their finest players and meet on the court for the hallowed game of Bucket Ball to settle this matter without needless violence.

RIP a real one...

"The mistakes of Vira'ker, of Ker'nor. The cycle begins again...Dak'ir, mentor. I have failed you." Comments a lone shaman, staring up at the vast temple. She purses her lips into a frown, carefully rolling up the scroll. "We never learn, do we, my old mentor? I understand you better now. May we have the peace we seek in Stargush..."

It's no peanut butter but it'll do

Three days passed by the time the threshold of the jungle had been breached. A unit six strong forsook the carrier of flat treads in the sand. Covering the hulking metal vehicle with a red and brown tarp to obscure it from sight. They traveled from a city of red mud and reflective alloy, from childhood, they had been told this alloy was used to cast off heat from within. Carrying with them kinetic weaponry with as few mechanical parts as possible. The uniform consisted of a synthetic silk alloy that appeared hard and unyielding. Yet under further scrutiny bent and contorted as the wearer did. Colored a strange miasma of greens, and yellows, covering most of the body. Their helms featured an oval visor, a small antenna protruding from the left of this helm. Their traveling packs are made of the same material. Fixed with buckles and clamps within and outside to avoid unnecessary noise during movement. Five days passed, carrying them into the harsh yet colorful wilderness. Trees lurch overhead, casting them in near-constant darkness. Trunks were wider than the buildings the unit had grown up around. Taller than the dunes of the red sea they called home. Most unlike the red sands, filled with water and life. Frogs as large as one's hand leaped away from their approach. Reptiles with long snouts and webbed fingers varied in size. Giving only passing hisses when they dare encroach. From vibrant blues, yellows, reds, pinks, and various shades of green. Plant life ruled where the sun was able to pierce the canopy far above. Which was notley along the streams and ponds encountered in their journey. Fungi grew where sunlight failed to reach. Though it appeared carnivorous and even cancerous on the surface of rocks and trees. Eating away slowly at the materials, adding them as a part of their collective mass. The unit made clear to away from any path that might lead them closer to such fungi. For in their largest clusters, they littered dark patches of the jungle. Where two species grew, one wide and red like a bowl. From its hollow red, red veins grew outward and onto the decaying forms of animals unlucky to cross its path. Its partner was a deep blue and green. Constantly vomiting yellow spurs into the air, which had been observed pacifying creatures with a respiratory system. As a boar had been observed, still alive but laying on its side. As the red veins grew into the body and slowly turned flesh to a mush of pink ichor. Eight days passed, and the unit met locals of the area. Dressed in the fiber of the forest and crude iron. They had known of large populations of humans deeper in the jungles, as trade on its border was rather common. They lived in towering cities over the trees and ventured down to gather minerals and food, and tend to crops. They were by no means an archaic civilization. Using firearms and similar ordinance to defend themselves. Though, unlike the unit of six, these firearms operated on powders compared to their magnetic weaponry. After being given a map in exchange for one of their filtering canteen, the unit set off once more. That night they had gathered around the flame of their campfire. Pouring over the contents of the map on a flat rock with flashlights and markers. The task set for them was to explore an ancient research station in the jungle. Their collective society has discovered through excavation in the sands, a bunker of flawless stone and metal alloy that showed no sign of decay. Within they had discovered several terminals, an armory of the same synthetic armor they adorned now. The locations of several more of these bunkers, and mines that dated back nearly a thousand years. Soon an industrial revolution had made way. Ignoring the skeletons of passed humans in each they found. It was from a location not far from the jungle that the discovery of a site known only in the record as Facility: H.B.C -sercbw&a:0078 was discovered. In most of these underground complexes, logs were hard to restore. Either due to solar flares or other disrupting factors to their systems. A unit of six was selected and sent out ahead of a larger convoy to explore and document the area around the supposed research station. The map which was now being discerned on the rock confirmed the existence of the complex. It was shown as a towering pyramid structure shaded by a firm grey. Surrounded by nothing, the map suggested a good thirty-hard radius of the complex was nothing but flat grass. The dimensions of the building were unknown, though the locals claimed it towered up to the trees. When questioned if any had entered this complex, the locals expressed it was impossible. It had no visible doors or windows. Any attempt to climb it revealed no viable entry point. They bickered among themselves over the best approach. By river would keep them from any of the aggressive flora that had been documented. Though added an estimated three-day journey, which dug into rations more than collectively enjoyed. By the next morning, they decided to continue down the river and catch what fish they could to avoid cutting into the share of packaged food. Ten days passed, arriving at the site of the complex a day earlier than expected. The river came to a sudden halt, by which it was fed into a metallic wide grate secured in the ground by smooth stone. Much like the bunkers in the desert, it had seemed untouched to time. The metal showed no sign of rusting, and the stone, no sign of erosion. The grass that surrounded the complex was perfect. Only three inches tall, nothing but itself grew. It displayed no signs of care, that no one had tended to it. Yet it remained still and unyielding. Flora from the jungle suddenly stopped, roots coiled back on themselves and away from the grass. The sun shined down clearly on the black reflective material that made the complex. It stood in the shape of a harvested crystal almost, far less a pyramid save for a pointed top. Its base jutted out from the ground at a sharp ninety-degree angle, before steadily turning in to form the spike at its height. It loomed over the local trees, which had progressively gotten smaller near the structure. The unit spent the remainder of the day studying the exterior. Attempts to take samples of what comprised it proved impossible. Nothing they did left even a hint of damage to its integrity. Lacking equipment to study the phenomenon which was the unchanging blades of grass. They settled for the evening, to resume work when morning came. Elven days passed, and progress had been made. Establishing communication to the convoy still in the desert, early when the sun barely broke the trees. The conversation lasted at most twenty minutes, a brief explanation of the complex and its nature. Followed by the promise of new equipment delivered via rocket. It was near the evening when the rocket landed in the clearing, sending a cloud of dirt upon impact. At this time, the unit broke up into three small groups based on their function. They traveled with a medic, a geologist, two marines, a technician (He never specified what of.), and what the rest only knew as a 'scientist'. Which did not do the sixth member of the unit justice for their role in the operation. The technician began to dismantle the rocket. Its contents were covered in a white foam that required force to break them free. Guessed to be designed for the impact of the ground. He took out a sliver tube that was cold to the touch, lined with three vials of liquid coolant. Its surface held a layer of frost even in the evening sun. Followed by a metallic cylinder that hosted one dial and a switch. When activated, hot plasma ignited forth akin to an archaic flare. Which was expanded or thinned by the dial. Instructions followed with the tube. Within the tube was a small computer chip, which was to be placed within the hand, between the thumb and index finger. Stated to be powered by the body's natural bioelectricity. When placed upon the complex, leaders of the convoy expressed it should bear a reaction or even reveal passage inside. One of the Marines volunteered to have the chip placed within. After a quick cut along the skin, the top layer was peeled back and the small device was placed within before being sealed by the medic with a quick foam spray designed to keep small cuts closed and safe from infection. Around half an hour was spent circling the structure, the marine put an outstretched palm on every inch of surface he could reach to no avail. From here, he began to walk the grounds around the complex in a wide circle. After the second or third circle from the building, he gave a shout. By the time everyone had gathered around, a section of grass had retreated into the ground. Revealing a descending ramp wide enough to fit what they speculated was for vehicles. One by one they filtered in, holding their kinetic rifles idle. The technician took the lead to a clear door, kneeling down at eye level with a numeric pad. Everyone else remained behind as a hole was created by the plasma device retrieved from the rocket. Allowing its face to be removed and exposing wiring beneath. Little to no conversation had been held by the unit in their travels, either too impersonal or simply poor with social skills to express themselves beyond direct concerns of noting wildlife, and the terrain. Now at the gate of their prize, murmurs began to rise. "Should we be expecting any hostility inside, like, has any of the bunkers had any latent security measures?" Asked a concerned geologist. "My understandin is that a few of the bunkers had automated turrets, some that function. Most seemed unresponsive. I'll go with a hard, perhaps." Responded the technician, who had an arm deep within the wall now. "What are you doing?" The 'scientist' asked, stepping forward now to leer over. The technician responded with a grunt. Wrapping his fingers around a handle. "A hunch, now lot o' the time, maintenance will have easier ways to get in, in case wirin is fried or something is unresponsive." He slowly rose, with his arm and Turned the handle he had found. Creaking sounds rang out from within the walls. "Now I'm guessin we can pry the door apart." Removing his arm fully, and returning to the group huddle. With effort, each part of the sliding door was shoved open. One by one they filtered into the room beyond. A ramp carried them up into a circular room. With four elevators positioned the same as the cardinal directions of a compass. Trucks made of the same materials as the exterior of the complex lined the sides of the room. Flatbeds filled with green crates that were held down by worn orange straps. The first sign of the decay of time was these fabric straps. The rest remain pristine, unyielding to the decay of gravity or oxidation of metals. As the Marine with the small chip stepped closer to the center of the room, the smooth floor glowed in a circle of light before it faded. Breakers large enough to be heard flipped on their own, and the electric hum of lights illuminated the darkness. The ceiling above them had an open hole that revealed the interior of the complex was a fast network of walkways and suspended cubes. All shared the same ivory hue as the rest of the building, blue stained glass acted as guards for each of the walkways. It resembled a strange hive, chaotic, connected all over. One could seamlessly reach one end by any one of the pathways far overhead. Beneath the same Marine's feet, a green line appeared. Which moved with an arrow to lead him towards one of the walls where a line of monitors hung from the wall, angled up to face whoever stood at them. When within two feet of the monitor, the silhouette of a hand. Which was soon covered by Marine's own hand. The screen beneath flashed a bright blue, and his hand was removed. Words appeared for a few moments. Long enough to be read as 'The Human Biotics Corporation, welcomes you back Howard Che Lamort.' Everyone gathered now at the monitor, which displayed a clear menu of several options. 'Clock in. Clock Out. Contact Management.' Though this was disrupted by a sudden message on the screen, accompanied by an electronic voice from the device which resembled a woman. 'Hello, our records show that you, Howard Che Lamort are more than 11430000 hours late for your shift. If our records did not register as the only remaining janitor alive on staff. You would be terminated and your family's rations taken. There is much work to be done. Thank you, the H.B.C appreciates your continued loyalty.' Silence washed over the unit. And the anointed 'scientist' was the first to break it. "That's over a thousand years."