EPHIA: AT WAR

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden



Volume I • Hziran 23rd, IY 7788 - The Declaration of War
Volume II • Hziran 24th, IY 7788 - His Magnificent's Mandate
Volume III • Hziran 30th IY 7788 - Rennik Colmes' First War Council
Volume IV • Hziran 31st IY 7788 - The Skirmish of Sundered Scale
Volume V • Tammuz 4 IY 7788 - The Battle of the Boundary
Volume VI • Tammuz 10, IY 7788 - Sabotage of Lover's Gap Bridge
Volume VII • Tammuz 18-21, IY 77788 - Divan Dipomacy
Volume VIII • Tammuz 26, IY 7788 - The Banafsi Mission Massacre
Volume IX • Maribeh 2, IY 7788 - The Envoy to Il Modo
Volume X • Maribeh 4, 1Y 7788 - Rise of the Grand Serdar at Kardesler
Volume XI • Maribeh 21, IY 7788 - The election of Argent Agyris
Volume XII • Tabbah 1, IY 7788 - The Razing of Arslan
Volume XIII • Tabbah 8, IY 7788 - The Fall of Ephia's Well
Volume XIV • Tabbah 18, IY 7788 - The Clash of Conscripts
Volume XV • Tabbah 20, IY 7788 - To Dance with the Queen
Volume XVI • Illul 5, IY 7788 - Samton's Last Stand
Volume XVII • Illul 19, IY 7788 - The Betrayal of Got Valdhazr

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


Warmaster Colmes and Prince Never-Crown of Got Valdhazr,
surveying the defensive front of the Carved Needles after the slaying of Blakharak the Eviscerator, Tabbah 7,7788

It began not with calamity and surprise attack, nor with naked aggression and troops marched, but with simple declaration. And oddly honorable forecasting of terror to come.

With the dragon slain, Iakmes leaped down into the pit of combat. He grasped his sceptre, from which ancient magicks eminated outwards, stunning each and every Ephian in such a fashion that we could not move. During our stupor, he made his intentions clear. He was going to wage war on the entire Disc, in order to free it from what he sees as "invaders" and "interlopers". During this speech, three strange figures garbed in silvery robes appeared, and began critizing Iakmes. These three seemed to represent some Age of Silver, whereas Iakmes affliated himself with Bronze. After the exchange of words, the trio left, leaving a strange trail of metal in their wake.

Now, Ephia's Well is at war. The fickle skirmishes of the past are gone, as our enemy turns their fully focused gaze upon us, and us alone. While we mourn the brave souls that gave their lives in service of the Well, we should not let their sacrifices be in vain. As such, preparations for war should begin immediately, and allies should be sought as soon as possible.

The Orc'ah as they call themselves, the Children of the Axe. To Kulkund of the North they are known as malicious weapons of The Murderer, to Ynys Eilir a persistent threat and nuisance to every newborn, to the Sibilant Remnants of the South a persistent thorn and foe of Diakos' Forces, to Qa'im they are flesh and bone and flame to shatter their metal legion, to Ka'esh they are fermented of dissident and defiance to be put ruthlessly to the axe by the Grand Serdar - and any who stand with them. To the Seekers-After-Death they are a desperate plea to upend the Great Ash's status quo of permissive atrocity. To Baz'eel they have been a woe ever since Silverknee sought to split the Twin Cities.

To Ephia's Well they are the single greatest existential threat since Red Hill - a time in which undiscly atrocities from the Stars were unleashed by the Humans who sat in rule in drastic measure, weaponizing the Q'tolipan resulting in Blood Plague and more. Now there is talk of "Total Victory", now there is talk of Conscription - to some, Slavery. Now there is talk of Bombs, of titanic Air Ships, of drastic and increasing atrocities by Ka'esh upon the Eastern Front.

This shall serve as record. For better or worse of deeds and actions, of judgements, of victorys and defeats.

This shall serve as a chronicle.

Of Ephia at War.

End Volume I

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden

There can be no greater word than the Sultan's. So I will not expound.

"Now. I arrive today bearing the explicit word of his Magnificence, Osman al-Maribid. I present them to you here.

First. His Grace intends to convene Kardesler. In this his mind is steel. It is marble.

Second. I do not need to educate you, his most loyal and loving subjects, regarding the ongoing threat posed by Qa'immi agression. The balance of power is delicate. The might of Baz'eel is trained upon the Edutu. Therefore, Osman, in his great and infinite wisdom, has decreed that it shall be Ephia's Well that prosecutes the great struggle against this barbarian horde. This trust is a blessing, a great and shining duty. Do not disappoint him.

Third, adjunct to the second decree. It shall behoove the Legates and the Accord to form a War Cabinet to prosecute this war. It is suggested that the Legates nominate a Warmaster, on whom overall responsibility for tactical and strategic decisions will rest. It is imperative to the Sublime Garden that the democracy of Ephia's Well continues to function throughout this period of crisis. Therefore it would be inappropriate for a Legate to assume command of military forces. In case of electoral defeat, disgrace, et cetera. Any other functionaries of this Cabinet - whether Bey of Spies, Ambassdor General, et cetera - the Sublime Garden leaves to the discretion of this Assembly.

Finally, let it be known: all the economic might of Baz'eel, Her great mercantile houses, Her consortiums and factories, Her counting-houses, temples, shipyards, granaries... all the great conglomerate of the City of Gold... All this shall turn to thy succor and aid. Let it be known, that it is the opinion of the Sublime Garden, that Ephia's Well must first turn towards any allies that it might gather. A coalition must be formed. Kardesler may writ these in stone... but it is the slippery work of diplomacy that shall avail you. Even now, our diplomats inform us that the Emirate of Kha'esh is raising troops.

Do not tarry on this. Act swiftly, and with decision.

One final thing... This shall be a long war. Steel yourselves. Embrace your loved ones. Gruelling months lie ahead of us. These are the sentiments, desires and commands of the Sublime Garden, and he that inhabits therein - OSMAN, al-Maribid, Sultan of Baz'eel, Sultan of Ephia's Well, Sultan of Qa'im, Protector of Il Modo, and Alkab, Qadira and Kha'esh. Protector of the Great Ash Desert, and the Sea of Pearls.

That is all."

End Volume II

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


The First War Council of Ephia's Well, Hziran 30th 7788

And by Pyramid of Dual-Purple Legate was chosen - Lieutenant Rennik Colmes. A Refugee arriving to Ephia's Well among the great exodus of 7787. Whose exploits in Ephia's Well would name him one of the more influential soldiers of the modern era of the Sultan's Fourth Legion.

Summary: Once a simple Outring hunter and... Lieutenant Rennik Colmes has come a long way from his roots... Losing his family on the long journey toward the Ash Desert, he came to the Well one more lost refugee...succor within the caring arms of Elossi...But all was to change...took his place among the Sultan's Janissary, his hunger...narcotic replaced...one for Truth.

Colmes rose Swiftly...hunting skills now turned upon those who flaunt the Laws...Trapping others in lies with the same ease...The Arrest...of Shane Gallows...Brooker Merizad, The Investigation...Autopsy of...John Syter... Lawless Nature of the Cinquefoil Rose with...Colmes Doctrine...has seen Colmes be the first of the New Refugee Generation rise to the Esteemed Rank of Lieutenant, and his efforts continue ever onward.
...

...declaration of War against Iakmes...election...the Accord to put forth individuals...as dictated by our Illustrious Sultan...Lieutenant Colmes garnered...most support from...the Accord.

And in Declaration of Warmaster Rennik Colmes himself, "In the days to come, the following individuals deserve your ear, your attention and your assistance, should you be called to provide it-- for they act in concert against Iakmes' hoards. Zain al-Saiba. Naelin Karstwen. Bashir Khatara. Aurelio d'Lyon. Mirielle Rosseau. Zol Nur. Sister Selsi.".

And act his War Council would. With alacrity and purpose an immediate march southward was declared. That for the first time since the Red Hill would the Accord in singular unison with righteous mandate from the Holy Sultan, agreed by the Assembly, a singular and unbreakable force would be mustered. Not one to be solved in a decisive battle but from the sacred Divan a lengthy campaign. Long into the night and for many hours they would debate and strategize...

...Come morning The first great battle of the Age of Bronze would come.

End Volume III

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


The Skirmish of Sundered Scale, Hziran 31st 7788

"Live and Drink!" - These words rang out in Hziran 31st, 7787. The Funeral of John Syter in which mourners raised blindingly strong liquor and Ephia was graced by princess presence.

Hziran 31st, 7788 brought similar solemnity. As Warmaster Colmes' forces marched southward on the heels of harrowing news: That unshackled by the Sibilant defeat in the south, a Troglodyte King was open to negotiations with Iakmes. A combination of forces of old which would mean dire portent for Ephia's Well and further amassed monstrous force.

A bolstering of such forces would amplify the difficulties faced by the nascent War Council and yet untested forces of the Accord against the newly bolstered Thousand Clans beneath the Grey Grasp of Iakmes. At the risk of deviation the largest tactic espoused by Ephians in facing the Orc'ah is "Avoid Fire". Thus Bolstering the ranks of Iakmes with the remnants of the Sibilant Host would be dire. For a great many veterans remember the horrors of Red Hill and the Troglodyte Gas Fanatics who brought lungrot among survivors and throatblistering death upon the field. To see Gas, to see Acid, to see more added to their arsenal and tactics a crippling portent.

It is with these stakes in mind did the Warmaster's forces march upon the Ruins of Lakkar. A twisted and winding labyrinth which would go on to prove as dangerous in terrain as it did in the fetid Troglodytes and vile Orcs seeking treaty in its depths. And it would be there that first blood drawn, as tusks shattered and scales sundered.

For upon the Chips would the Bellows ring far, ring wide - Ephia was Victorious. Iakmes would not purge the Disk with such ease. Ephia's Well would stand in defiance. The Warmaster's forces would draw line in the sands of the Great Ash.

The Skirmish of Sundered Scale was won.

...But not without Cost.

...On Hziar 31st, in the Imperial Year 7788, did the Thousand Clans under Warlord Iakmes, enter treaty with the Troglodytes of the shattered Sibilant Host. In the disruption of this Treaty, in ensuring the Clans garnered no allegiance that day, did we lose several of our own:

Of the Balladeer College:
Balladeer Siegward Eyck, and Student Rani Amra.

Of the Banda Rossa:
Recluta Gard Gisault, Recluta Rathal Luceros, Recluta Theron Vlasc

Of the Fourth Legion:
Scarab Siegfried Wolfhart

Of Ephia's Citizenry:
Peporette the Jester, Jimmy Janosch, Pauvera Contadino, Danir Zarim, Badger Dedmarsh...

End Volume IV

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden

"Survivor's Guilt" - The Battle of the Boundary, Tammuz 4 7788

It is easy in times of peace to espouse the virtue of war. It is easier in times of war to espouse the virtue of war when that war is cast kilometers, leagues, in incomprehensible scope of distance away from your home. In what would become one of the first truly monumental choices made by Rennik Colmes' War Council would be a tactical decision cast in black and white. The Request of Arslan and the Request of the Boundarymen. The logistics involved in any battlefield decision cannot justly be weighed nor judged by those outside the minds of the commander. It is the duty of those who raise Chronicle to only share what the outcome of those choices come to be.

It was so decided that upon Tammuz 4th, IY 7788 that the Warcouncil's Forces would march to the aid of the Mercenary Fortress in what would soon become one of the most grim and brutal conflicts that Ephia Well has seen to date in the fabled "Battle of the Boundary".

To march for the self is preservation, heroism is to march for others without reservation. And in the rallying efforts of the Accords, would twelve brave souls board ashsail and make trip Southwards. Far south, far and beyond safety and reasonable venture. To the edge, the aptly named boundary fortress in what would be a Massacre without reinforcement.

Ephia though did not act out of purely the generosity of its heart. For a company of Mercenaries indebted, saved from certain defeat, would certainly find way to repay such a cost in the ongoing struggles to come. But that does not diminish the heroic efforts undertaken by the daring dozen.

It would prove to be one of the most violent skirmishes as the Thousand Clans lived to their name. However so too the danger did not merely come from the conflict - for the forces of Iakmes are tended by a cruel cunning. Be it the working of the Orcish Void Caller plotting the starchart or merely Agaslakku's fury upon the peace-loving Ephians there on the horizon came a storm.

Racing against the horizon did the Ash Sail streak out of view from Ephia into the maw of the massive and swirling clouds of Ash itself. The steadfast Sixth Legion, plying their lessons from the Baz'eelan Academy brought to bare Geomancy woven to buttress the brazen.

Landing was hostile, immediately. Tales varying far and wide of the total sum of Iakmes' forces unleashed amidst the storm and swarm. The details of those of the Accord varying from Rose to Cinquefoil to Janissary, but what is known is this excerpt from a local Toast that has overtaken the wateringholes and mizzar dens of Ephia-

"Twelve did Depart,
Eight have Returned,
And the Boundaryman Loyalty, Ephia earned"

For the first time in the course of this strife Ephia did Bleed ranking blood. Officers of the Accord. Former Legates. Men and Women who meant a great deal, to a great many. It is said by many that the Battle of the Boundary, the clash of Bronze, sits the true start of this War.

...For it is easy to espouse the virtue of war when it is far away.

Another thing entirely when burying Hero.

On Tammuz 4th, in the Imperial Year 7788, did the Thousand Clans march on the Fortress of the Mercenary Order known as the Boundarymen. Weeks prior, did they request the aid of Ephia's Well in repelling this invasion, and answer the call did Ephia's Well. In ensuring the Thousand Clans did not seize this strategic outpost, nor slay the brave defenders, did we lose several of our own:

Of the Tower of Q'tolip
Apothar Cosine Mevura

Of the Fourth Legion
Sergeant Atreya Lightdew

Of the Banda Rossa
Recluta Baako Mahmoud

Of Ephia's Citizens:
Former Legate Akna Ymir

Yet in their mourning and grieving,
None could have known,
That the choice of the Boundary over Arslan,
Would be one over which many would have to atone.

Though such a tale for later volume.

End Volume V

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden

'Lover's Quarrel' - Sabotage of Lover's Gap Bridge, Tammuz 10, 7788

Honor. Glory. These tenants of The Axe, The Protector, the Warrior, The Murderer, Agaslakku. The code by which the Orc'ah have been bred, raised, and hammered into bronze to champion. Taught from hidden Lodges to more public displays of violence and battle amidst the Great Ash. That they know not fear in the face of defeat. That their glory eternally carved when their deeds weighed upon death. That their legends carved into the very memories of the world. That they stand eternal.

Mankind, I and others who have come to learn the humans of this Great Ash Desert, are not so bound. These ragged survivors who wander the wasteland growing increasingly desperate, thirsty, hungry. They are capable of tremendous charity but by equal measure unbridled atrocity. Their knack for adaptation to circumstances is undeniable as an asset. But it is so too equally measured by their depravity when pushed to the brink. When pressured. When threatened.

Warmaster Rennik Colmes is a great many things - But the forces of Iakmes learned first hand: Honorable is not one of them. Honor, battlefield engagement, glory. These festering wounds of pride and hubris has no place in Wroth's gaze. Upon Tammuz 10th did the Sabotage smirk with glimmering glee. For Battlefield was disregarded in favor of Sabotage of a more traditional sort.

in the wake of the Battle of the Boundary, Ephia was reeling. Their cups raised in victory but it was a bittersweet one. Beloved Officers of the Accord buried, but not forgotten. Emotions gave way to tension. Adapting to the circumstances when word came of threat not from the south, but upon the Eastern Front, did the Warmaster introduce new tactics to the newer front - Cruelty.

A training camp for novices and fledglings, tusks barely beginning to jut, was amassed to the east of Ephia's Well and just south of the Lover's Gap. A Great Bridge was secured and being used to transport the unbloodied of the Orc'ah, cargo, and more as a vanguard for a greater force to come in the coming weeks. Hundreds though had begun to amass and assemble under the auspices of a staging ground for the Bronze Butcher's eastern front to conquer the Great Ash Desert and purge the Disk of all "Interloper".

Ephia's Well though would not lose its Officers without taking its pound of flesh. Enter the Sagebrush Scouting Corps. A raggedy band of once-politically avoidant refugees fleeing the Torchbearers for their political aspirations, turned champions of the Gold League of Ephia's Well with Prelate a heartbeat away from Legate. This force of outriders and explorers favoring independence from most affairs and buttressing the Legion - having made robust fortunes head-hunting for the Fourth upon outlaws when not scouting forward Orc'ah posts.

On the fateful day in question though, along with Engineer Mark Miller and the Missing Mage Zuli, did the Warmaster's strike force cut discreetly into enemy lines. Traversing the dangers of the Vanguard Encampment with soft step, cowardly invisibility, and Worth's unbridled malice. Like specters traversing the dunes they made their way past the numerous training pits of the Novice Orc'ah. Beyond the Feasting Tents where the Orc'ah Hunters prepared meal. Through the Tented Camps where they lay to rest.

A rare glimpse of the Orc'ah at peace. Placated. Uprepared. Ripe. Through clever machinations and a well timed detonation of Mark Millar's tinkering tonnage, a massive eruption of flame engulfed the bridge. Smoke billowed and wafted high into the sky while chunks of Orc'ah meat sprayed across the Lover's Gap. In a fury the survivors attempting to find the perpetrators of such a disgraceful act - but Ephia's force had fled the field moments after the detonation.

The Eastern Advance, now halted, through cruel and potent means. Flames burning so bright even the Orc'ah would burn, augmented by odd and potentially heretical cogswork. Thousands of Orc'ah would be unable to so easily traverse the pass, and a proverbial line drawn explosively in the sand. Another route would be forced to take, more delays to their efforts, their path stymied. Above all though - A new tone set for the War.

The Southern Front would become isolated pockets of resistance upon which the Grey Grasp of Iakmes was the tide. As spear and tusk descended like plague of locusts upon fortifications as if they were livestock and hearty grains. Baz'eel and the Purple League's rallying cries of Ephia Invictus would ring out amidst the many sieges, find itself scrawled on abandoned and shattered wagons, palisade, and more along the Rampart Nusrum. Hope that if they called loud enough that those of Ephia would descend and be their salvation.

The other though.

The other Front would take a far differing tone.

From early in the war The Sultan's warning of Ka'esh's barbarism mustering for a march eastward. La Banda Rossa's scouting efforts and unofficial and undocumented activities no doubt living to their terrifying reputation. And now Warmaster Colmes and the Sagebrush Strikeforce's defying the Agasian rules of engagement to slaughter novice to buy a few weeks delay in deployment.

...In response to the delay the Orc'ah would go on to prepare some grotesque, cruel, and hideous siege piece among newly dug in Eastern fortifications. The full extent of which to be revealed at later stage of the War.

How Ephia would respond to such, time would tell, but this proved the first documented time that the Eastern Front was introduced to the Gold League's War philosophy by way of their Sagebrush Supporters - Total Victory.

End Volume VI

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


Divan Diplomacy, Tammuz 18 IY 7788

In the wake of the Lover's Quarrel, the successful sabotage of the Lover's Gap Bridge, came a groundswell of Gold League support for the operation's success. So much so that six days later came Legate Balstan Gloamingdaith of Sandstone College to the First Seat of Legate. The Purple Pyramid was cast aside as now the austerity of Baz'eel's Ephia Invictus philosophy would be weighed against the Gold League's pursuit of Total Victory.

As the Eastern Front was stymied and the Southern Front quelled for the time being the mission of the War Council would take a dramatic shift towards Diplomacy. Kardeslar was demanded by the Sultan and the Warmaster Colmes would abide such a Mandate. Runners would be sent to the four winds in search of those who would be so bold to stand aside Ephia's Well in rebuking the onslaught of Iakmes. To Banafsi, to Tlonsiyya, to Ka'esh, to Il Modo, to Kulkund, and beyond were diplomatic seals stamped by the delicate fingers of Vizier Bashir and gifted to couriers for the dangerous task of striding into the Dunes.

As in most things, be it Red Hill or otherwise - It would be Ka'esh to first answer the Call. At the behest of Ambassador Tariq audience was to be had with both Legates immediately. A dispatch had arrived of invitation from the illustrious Emir Jaiyan himself. A party was assembled, but as they were heading to leave a declaration was made - That Vizier Azarmidokht the Golden wished the famed mask of the deceased Apothar Cosine Mevura.

...To the Vizier's Chagrin upon arrival it was claimed to have been lost. However did Champion Aurelio of the War Council give forth a promising offer from the Cinquefoil Rose on behalf of his Grandmaster. It placated the Emir and Vizier enough to continue negotiations but it was far from the robust offerings of others who had sought to court Ka'esh. As after all Ka'esh is so beloved, by so many, for its military might and magical immanence.

Though negotiations began rocky with Ephia's former allies of Red Hill, ultimately terms would be set:

The Emir and Vizier made it quite clear...offended by the lack of communication after the Battle of Red Hill, especially regarding...The offense was ...ploy to make...demands of us, in exchange for Kha'esh attending Kardesler as "a brother"...

As we left...curious figure...seen standing next...Emir and Vizier. I suspect that this might've been...diplomat of...some sort.

Water, Knowledge, and History would be the demands of the oft Dinar ravenous Ka'esh. Negotiations would continue for a time, but it would be through the Sisters of Cinquefoil Rose that attempt made to solidify Ka'esh's arrival to Kardeslar.

Regrettably, amidst the negotiation of the Sisters did the Assembly of Ephia's Well break down into feud and strife, resulting in a potentially calamitous affair.

It comes to pass that...is quiet, and we have peace to speak...
The Vizier asks for our offer. I begin to negotiate. It is provided.
We speak...of power and guides.
The Vizier laughs...We smile.
We speak of...lost in the dark...of lights.
The Vizier laughs...We smile.
There is a disturbance...Bellows in relation to...Assembly...Vizier privy to feuds...in Ephia...its peoples scheme...undermine these talks as they happen.
We speak of...knives driven into each other...
...Vizier laughs. We smile.

Amidst highest stake negotiations regarding the Sultan's demand for Kardesler, the conflicting concerns of Ephia Invictus and Total Victory come to a precarious head. Upon the tip of a knife the future of Kardesler, of the War, of the Disk would hang in the very balance.

Ambassador Zafirah Tariq
Let it be known that the Legates have altered the terms they agreed to before all and sundry before the Assembly of Ephia's Well. The alteration is thus: they refuse to provide Kha'esh with the passphrase, most precious.

I go now to relay this information to the Vizier, the Golden One. His wrath and fury shall be unrelenting.

...The Vizier does not laugh as much this time....

The negotiations would drag long into the night within the Caravansari of Ka'esh. The magical powers of Ephia's Well in the Sisterhood seeking to undo the damage done by Assembly, negotiating with the magical powers of Ka'esh in Azarmidokht the Golden.

Ultimately it would come to pass that they would indeed arrive to the Sultan's Kardeslar.  Their price though, and their demands, and their recompense for these breaches of trust would only come to be known at the Valley of Wisdom.

What would later reveal to have been a ploy by the Astronomers of Q'tolip, Apothar Mae Stern of the League of White was banned for life from the Divan by Warmaster Rennik Colmes. The cause for potentially sundering these negotiations before they even began in proclaiming the Mask's whereabouts unknown. She was furthermore banned from any Diplomatic envoys for the duration of the War.

Where Ephia knows well how to win a victory in battle, success in Asterbadian politics and City-State Negotiation continues to be elusive.

...as only all too well highlighted by the fateful trips Regarding Banafsi and Il Modo in the weeks to follow this near catastrophe.

End Volume VII

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden

"The Curtain Call" - Banafsi Mission Massacre - Tammuz 26, IY 7788

War. War never goes as predicted. It is oft said by scholar and soldier alike that the moment the choice is made it cannot be unmade shy of peace or obliteration. More often than not even Peace itself is a falsehood unless it is borne of erasing an entire culture - for Culture in all its forms is a history of deeds, of acts, and of purpose. The story does not end merely because you demand it so. Burn the books and the Hakawati shall spread tale.

Diplomacy though is equally tumultuous and though budding agreement was formed between Ka'esh and the nascent War Council of Ephia's Well it is not the only power in the realm. The small island city-state of Banafsi was widely reknown for its textiles. Now it is known only for its civil strife, its Archon pledging to dread Qa'im, its peoples beleaguered by Djinn, and its "True governance" in a state of fled exile.

This would be the stage for one of the most tragic tales of the war, while not the first time the unified Ephia came to strife, it would be the first time in recent memory and in the throes of war. Once more Ephia's Well would be called to court and treat with a foreign power. The promise of aid for the War, the promise of soldiers by the proclaimed numbers so high it's hard to believe, the promise of alliance towards bringing about resolution to the Chief of Chiefs, Iakmes.

Answering the clarion call of Diplomacy was a motley band of Torchbearers, Cinquefoil, Nadiri, and a newly arisen coterie to Ephia's Well. The court of the exiled Prince Arjuna of Qadira. Some called a bastard, some called a Tiger, some called a fraud, others merely a pirate with a panache for performance. As this force made its way to aid Banafsi - the tales therein begin to muddle.

Some say it was borne of the pride of two men, a Student and a Pirate Prince. Others that it was entirely orchestrated from the start as their size of their coterie eclipsed most if any other organized force presence - bolstered by mercenary and sellsword. That amidst a mission of gravity and diplomacy the festering gash of wounded pride took hold. While some men and women fought to press the mission onward - The Prince and his Coterie stood firm refusing to partake for some sleight or another.

As many great tales however the details stop being told of the scenery as the stage is set. A legend begins to swirl about of greater proportions and overtakes what may be considered the truth. The tension, the drama, the tragedy, these begin to give momentum. That special and difficult to codify magic that turns some tales to immortality and some merely cast in the wayside of history.

For amidst battle itself did the Pirate Prince Arjuna cut down student Devlin Cross of the Cinquefoil Rose. The considerations of what draws to men of such action - it is said there was some manner of conflict over pride in the past, or perhaps on the island, that lead to the forces of Qadira to stand down a portion of the battle. This led to words, to tensions, to details which are lost as the grains of salt in the sea itself.

What is denoted though is when the Student of the Cinquefoil Rose was cut down an irrevocable choice was made. This ceased to be a tale of Ephian Diplomacy, of bolstering march and mission on behalf of the Exarch of Banafsi. This became a tale of bloodshed, of woe, and of tragedy the likes of which Ephia's Well has not seen in so very long. With alacrity lines began to form - The Banda Rossa in some form or another bound to Arjunda - oft patroned by Argent Argyris of the Gold League to hunt Orcs - a man who all would come intimately familiar with in the coming days. Opposed by which the more steadfast and dutiful Balladeers, Torchbearers, and others of Ephia's Boardworkers.

La Banda Rossa, torn between two conflicting contracts, is said to have moved in one form or another to defend Arjuna after he cut down the Student. Sellswords following Gold is not unheard of, doubly so if it is the Gold League. Those of Purple and White and Rose and more however took great umbrage at the downing of the man. What they failed to realize however as lines were drawn and tensions rose -

Tigers have claws.

They say it was not as quickly over as it seemed. That the forces of the Qadira-by-Gold ally of Ephia and the Torchbearers, Rose, and more fought for a time as positions shifted, as spells flew, and as blood spilled. Yet what is known and was well documented by many was while some of Ephia's forces moved to curtail the Qadirans - a number, a great number, gracious such a number of them. They merely stood and watched the spectacle unfold. Of those would be heroes and would be villains of this grand tale clashing on stage set by Banafsian Diplomacy 'neath the Curtain of War.

When the smoke settled, when the dust cleared, what was seen is not what any would have anticipated in any capacity. For Ephia is no stranger to bloodshed, it is no stranger to violence, but it has in its peace come to grow complacent. To grow sporting of violence, as spread by Agasian Virtue and Cinquefoil nobility. A Tiger though, while it has claws, also has teeth.

Corpses. Men and women of Ephia's Well. Voiced. Voiceless. Students. Executed. The fate of the mission was overtaken by grief, by woe, by tragedy of this tale. On swift wings did word begin to spread far and wide. That the tale of the Banafsi Mission Massacre would reach Ephia's Well.

That members of the Accord were executed by Gold League war asset. That Torchbearer and Banda Rossa crossed steel. That the Bastard Prince of Qadira had ripped out the throat of Alejandro Benjazar after his sharp claws raked him to the dirt.

That the Minister of Culture of Ephia's War Council was dead. That no longer would his hidden poems be left behind like sprinklings of joy wherever he hid them for intrepid explorer. That no longer his thousands of tales would flit across the verdant stage of the Krak de Rose.

Not by Orc, not by casualty of this Mission, but by pride and politic. The first non-mission casualty to reach the War Council.

Eyewitness Accounting with immediacy upon return to Ephia's Well by the Survivors lead to a firestorm of movement. The Qadiran Prince and his sycophants who fled the mission after the massacre were roundly exiled by Balstan Gloamingdaith, Legate of the Prelate who had so emboldened the Pirates against the Forces of Iakmes. Calls were raised far and wide for Janissaries, for Justice, for Wroth.

Clarissant Llancarfan
The Banda! The Prince and his whole Court! They murdered Caddick, and several of her students. Others too! Among them, Alejandro of the Warcouncil.

They also repeatedly intimidated the Exarch and his men. Not only are they damaging relations with our allies but they have sabotaged us by slaying our greatest and a standing member of the Warcouncil. They are all traitors.

The impending chaos brought with it many actions, with swift succession. Firstly - The mass exile of the Bastard Prince and his coterie, men and women of all walks of life who had taken to serve him as mercenary. Secondly the woman, Marigold Boffin, was revealed to have been a Gold League plant within his organization - though some claim this if fallacious and duplicitous - to ensure if it came to it the Tiger would be slain. Thirdly a Blockade that was in place from Qadira upon Ephia's Well was immediately lifted - for what little that gained with so much of the Sea of Pearls abstaining from the War or embroiled with Feud or Treachery with Qa'im. Fourthly a mass-seizure of tens of thousands of Dinar worth of property and possessions from the mercenary outfit of the Prince which held Voiced Property in the Plaza, numerous rooms in the Krak de Rose, the Trade Hall of the Souk, and more in glorious trade with the Gold League.

But just as the Gold League gives, they operate on Merit. And with their merit dissolved did Legate Balstan see the full force of Ephia thrown at the perpetrators of the Banafsi Mission Massacre.

Many would weep, many would morn, but to many - It was the first introduction on the grand stage to the Prelate Argent Argyris. Who in the wake of this tragedy is credited with the Execution of the Qadiran Bastard Prince, arriving from the Creep with a bloodied tiger pelt in tow. Who would go on to become an instrumental figure in the Kardesler of the Sultan, in the coming weeks diplomacy and politics, and ultimately himself run for Legate of the Second Seat in the month of Maribeh.

Who by word of his Legate Candidate Rival Sephidra Niridhe, Captain of the Torchbearers, and Survivor of the Banafsi Mission Massacre, paints a very different picture.

Sephidra Niridhe
I ask you to not be so easily deceived. Argent was Arjuna's closest friend. His own hired killer Marigold fought for Arjuna when the Balladeers confronted him for Devlin's murder. Argent was crying over the bellows because Arjuna made him look like a crook. And he killed him for it.

I fought Arjuna on that cursed island. Tried to defend the citizens that died in vain. I only stood down after they had fallen or been killed. And left when ordered too by the victor. I am the one who saw them exiled.

And yet the legates have failed the people who died on that island. Tempo, Devlin, Alejandro. Because the five people who enabled Arjuna. Who gave him the means to commit these atrocities. They cannot be held accountable. The Janissaries have tried. But the law is poorly written.

And this is one of the most pressing issues I wish to address in the coming term! Our lawbook has been chipped away at the past year. But the only people benefitting from this are the crooks. With your help in committees and assemblies both, I will see them all checked and expanded upon.

...But let us not get ahead of ourselves in this tale.

There is yet much to come of Diplomacy and the War before the Dragon of Ephia takes Flight.

End Volume VIII

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


"Hundred Barrel Balstan" - Envoy trip to Il Modo, Maribeh 2 IY 7788

Upon the back of Groknak did the Envoy of Ephia's Well set off. They embarked with nary but a prayer to the Wheel and a hope that they may prevail where others failed. Legate Marcellus Saenus famously being bamboozled and tricked by the slippery and savvy Il Modan politicians to "Recognize" Il Modo's independence from Baz'eel and part with barrels of water for barrels of "Eel Oil".

Accompanying the Legate Balstan Gloamingdaith were Prelate Sephidra of the Torchbearers, Vizier Bashir, the illustrious Floating Fantasia, and others. The Floating Fantasia though for those unfamiliar are a wondrous troupe of fire-jugglers, lion tamers, strong men, clownery, and even the "Largest Baby". A veritable spectacle wherever they set foot with gusto and celebration following in their wake. The sort of thing that children clamor for and men and women yearn to enjoy to distract from the harsh reality of War.

While their invitation was a shrewd one, it is unfortunate that with near immediacy was the visit to the Grand Ducal Palace marred with embarrassment.

At the Grand Ducal Palace...became evident that we were considered unwelcome guests...tense atmosphere, Legate Balstan presented the Council with a gift... necklace from the era of the Caliphate....was not well received, as the Council thought it was meant to message a return to that era's power...which the Modini have no fond memories of. Prelate Niridhe also produced...necklace, related...history of Il Modo and Qadira...did not produce much of a reaction....

Where History failed the scholar though, his companions did not. The Floating Fantasia was supremely beloved by the Council of Il Modo for their games, gimmicks, and jaunty tunes. The dazzling displays from the lands afar brought to the floating Isle in dramatic fashion. And then...

The Disc's Biggest Baby. Uproarious howls, cheers, amazement, shock, a degree of revulsion but only in that way which makes one only more excited by the prospect. How is it so large? Is this the work of the Wheel? Of the strange waters of Ephia's Well? Do the Giants yet walk among the Great Ash to produce such offspring? The questions were manifold and even Paula herself took to amazement at the display.

With gifts and merriments abounding it came time for negotiation. The Il Modan gift for negotiation was put on full display as last time the request was a few barrels - now, with the war on, with the threat to come, with all that such entailed - 100 Barrels of Ephian Water!

Ever the shrewd negotiator the Legate Balstan offered 80 Barrels, to counter such Paula requested that a signature be placed recognizing Il Modo's Independence. A step beyond merely Marcellus speaking the words. A cunning trap. For a time the Game of Knives gave way to a dance of words and negotiation, before we found the demand - 100 Barrels and arrive as "Friends". Friendship though was omitted by Il Modo in the next round of negotiations and merely 100 barrels, and they found themselves squarely where it began, and around and around the dance went, until -  Well. Some matters of history are  Best summed up by first person recollection.

Prelate Niridhe told Legate Gloamingdaith...go ahead and sign...thus...hundred barrels...promised for Il Modo's attendance at Kardesler...also allowed us to hire Modini mercenaries, yet...this was a mere trifle that we could've done without the Council's permission, anyway....did not have enough time to recruit any Modini mercenaries...our ship left.

Though in time many would come to try and refute that 100 barrels but a drop of the Well's water output, it was given as a charitable gesture and freely. Many say the Gold Legate acted supremely Baz'eelan with such charity. Others say it was once more a Legate of the backwater refugee outpost of Ephia's Well finding themselves bested in the political arena by Il Modo. Those who were given so much, so freely, for merely sitting in upon a diplomatic meeting of the ongoing War. Among the White and Purple it became commonplace to throw this accusation at the Legate, with the Warmaster Rennik Colmes coining the phrase 'Hundred Barrel Balstan'.

Time would tell if this was a shrewd gamble by the Gold League's Legate, a scholarly sort of Sandstone College. If the old portents and ancient texts scoured showed some enlightened gamesmanship and path to negotiation with Il Modo of whom few if any have ever successfully out maneuvered.

...Or if this would show first hand why Sandstone College is roundly mocked by the Greater Academies of Baz'eel.

End Volume IX

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


"The Saenus Gambit" - Rise of the Grand Serdar at Kardesler - Maribeh 4, IY 7788

Deep within the Valley of Wisdom, carved into the very bedrock of civilized life from aeon past lay the sacred site of Kardeslar. An assembly of gravity, weight, and prestige among the Great Ash Desert in which the Powers-that-Be assemble to debate, negotiate, and plot the course of the Future of all who dwell within their kingdoms. Graciously it is allowed that spectator permitted. And in each ceremony the fate of the Disc shifts and changes upon the wisdom espoused therein.

As ever from proximity, Ephia's Well was the first to arrive to discover her magnanimous self - Princess Shaimela - A firm believer in constitutional monarchy and the rule of law seated in presiding. Soon then would come the parade of City-States. Some would come gleefully, some ruefully, and some in Frostports case, outright insulted.

For brevity I include small samplings of the exchanges:

• For while Banafsi's woes are known to many did Sergeant Reyer attempt to sway his old friend the Exarch promising "One Million Men" - though to date none have been seen.
• Did Senior Scribe Bashir take to flattery and more to try and sway Tlonssya to little avail
• Gold Prelate Argent Argyris offering Arjuna's Tiger Pelt to the sobbing young woman from Qadira to no aid
• Gold Legate Balstan's pleas to Il Modo fallen upon deaf ears, interrupted by that scoundrel Dashir al-Dashir the Il Modini Bravo revealing to be Rashid al Rashid, spilling the brought barrel of water and protesting Il Modan involvement
• Purple Legate Marcellus granting Ka'esh's feared General known as Yatagahn granted the title of Grand Serdar, with full control over the war
• Frostport sending a rancid hunk of meat to sit and bake in the sun upon the chair gifted their attendance, with many bemoaning the wrong man was sought by the War Council for invitation.

Amidst this though came one shining light - The Dwarves of the auld hold of Got Valdhazr.

That hold of dwarves, who in time immemorial swore vengeance against the 'Children of the Axe' - the Thousand Clans - and have, since that day, waged terrible war against them.

Little is known of they, save that what few people resist the onslaught of Iakmes to the south have taken refuge behind the heavy stone walls of the hold.

It is generally agreed, however, that the fate of the war shall rest upon their shoulders.

A rallying force out of the storybooks of old as these proud, grim, oft said doomed dwarves coming forward sacrificing Kulkundic pride to ask for Alliance. For Aid. The gravity of this gesture lost on no one.

For now the Union assembled had rallying call.

DOOM!
Doom to Iakmes! Doom to the Thousand Clans!
Doom to the Murderer! Doom to they...
...or doom to we.

The new Union formed at Kardesler with eyes for the Eastern and Southern Theaters of War.
The new direction taken by the Grand Serder with a focus upon the Easter in preparation for Southern salvation.
The new pledges of old allies, embarking on not merely a war for survival but with direction.

While previously was written of the Eastern Front descending into a brutal campaign, and the Southern front being highlighted by a Salvation effort, Kardeslar all but solidified such.

To the East, Total Victory.
To the South, Ephia Invictus.

And while Kardeslar gave new momentum for fresh new victories,

Upon the horizon unbeknownst to all...

Internal strife looms upon the horizon...

Insurgency, Conscription, Financial Crisis, and more...

...As a Dragon's wings begin to spread.

End Volume X

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


"Let's change the whole world" - The election of Argent Agyris, Maribeh 21 IY 7788

The Monochromatic Pyramid, a victory first seized by the White League. The result of which was a Coup, Trial, and suicide of Legate Ricario Cassella. The Dual-Purple Pyramid was accused of austerity measures, favoring a bloated treasury over services to the peoples. What then would the Gold League cast as its spell upon the Stele? What awaited of the fiercely independent, merit-focused, supporters of "Total Victory, Nothing Less".

It began of course, as politics often does. Titles. Within the first half hour a number of new positions were etched into the Stele. Palatial Architect, Expeditionary Captain, a White League rival (suspected plant) raised to Vizier, and more. This though is not an anomaly in Ephia - an Election is over, the supporters shall enjoy their time in the shade.

Swiftly though matters grew terse as tensions rose with the Purple League and the Warmaster Colmes. Numerous accusations against the newly raised Vizier two days after his trial, overseen by Legate Balstan. Now the more grandiose and bombastic Argent rising from Prelate to Legate - and in the Dragon's wake tension swirled. While some politicians balk at such he reveled in it. Billowing smoke rings amidst the crows and cries of those deemed lesser. On more than one occasion gladly espousing that if he is to be cast as a Villain, he shall act as one - If it means the District raised, if it means the War won, if it means Total Victory.

A number of political overtures swirled despite the best efforts of the entrenched purple political bureau. While tensions rose with the Scribes of Baz'eel, the Janissaries of the Fourth, there was little or nothing that could stymie the continued and compounded might of the Gilded Pyramid. Legal Reform brought sweeping changes to what many beleived were bedrock laws - new classifications of what it means to be voiced or voiceless, disobeying a Legate a punishable offense, Janissary dragging their feet on cases put to task, and the undermining of legates a capital offense.

On the backs of such came a spltiting of Ephia through its usual lines. The Accord, the Political Leagues, and the Adventuring Populace. A rare conjunction occurred however in the failed effort of "Conscription".

That men and women of Ephia's Well, be they old Voiced or new Refugee, will and must commit to Total Victory. What began as a Warmaster's effort to bolster forces for higher risk missions to ensure victory over mercenary apathy turned into a Gold League watershed - Who decides merit, who decides conscription, who decides what goes where. In the chaos many made their fortunes, as is the want of opportunist, but a number of loyalists found themselves given pause.

But we get ahead of ourselves... for the tenure of the Dragon is a lengthy one - and amidst sweeping changes towards "Total Victory" in Ephai's Well - Upon the horizon begins to billow plumes of smoke.

For while Ephia has adopted the philosophy of Total Victory espoused on the Eastern Front? Ka'esh created it. Harsh mercenaries taken to a free enterprise, doing whatever in their power to maintain that freedom and hold position precariously between Baz'eel and Qa'im - yet managing to out-maneuver both by any means, by the only means.

Incredible magics of its Vizier. And the ruthless conquest of its General now named the Grand Serdar of the War. The Eastern Front would shift to become the focus of both Ka'esh and the Gold League in the coming weeks.

...At Any Cost will be put to the fullest test.

For now the Dragon celebrates victory with large smoke rings and lounging on its throne. Scholar Balstan given the supportive co-Legate to enact many of his philosophical queries and academic proposals put into real world practice. An unconventional but wholly effective partnership that began as Legate and Prelate but would go on to be one of the most impactful pairs to ever sit upon the Assembly Chamber.

But impactful is a loaded word, with many outcomes. For soon? Soon comes Arslan....

End Volume XI

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


"Total Victory." - The Razing of Arslan, Tabbah 1 IY 7788

"Total Victory. At any cost." - As written of previously, this statement was the clarion call of the Gold League in counter of the Purple League's Ephia Invictus. A stylized Ka'eshan practice of asymmetrical warfare eschewing Agasian Honor and embracing a singular notion that the Ashfolk have espoused since the Twin Cities began their ancient feud - War is unsavory. Where others may shy from its brutality and hardship the Gold League's call of Total Victory. At any cost. Sympathy and mercy may be had during recovery if one survives the war.

In time though would the Eastern Philosophy begin to bleed southward as Iakmes amassed victories - unconventional as they may be. Maribeh 18th came word that the city of Arslan had fallen - surrendering to Iakmes believing it shall spare them fate. This was discovered by a band of Slaves freed from Orcan caravan by the Torchbearers and Cinquefoil Rose as it crossed the Exodus.

Today...Maribeh 18 7788...rescued slaves from a clan convoy...people...rescued were from Arslan...had opened...gates to the clans...surrender, believing...would be spared. But they were put to...axe. Most of the women, children and elderly...killed...rest...captive. The captives...not know why...being transported north.

Arslan...now held by the Clan. We do not know if...all of the people that had been taken into slavery or...yet more in Arslan.

Acolyte Narwen Alendiel
Seat of Research and Culture

Supplication. Surrender. Yielding - met with massacre, with enslavement. This would go one to set the tone for the entirety of the Gilded Pyramid as the tragedies brought by the Clans upon Arslan removed any sympathetic thought or notion of coexistence. That this was not a war over territory, or resources. That this was a war for Survival. That if Total Victory was not achieved would Ephia's Well meet the same fate. Women and Children slaughtered in the street the likes not seen since La Banda Rossa was unleashed upon Ibithal's reign of this place. That the survivors would be sold into slaves and sent "Northward" for reasons unknown. That life as it is known in the Great Ash would come grinding to a halt as Boardwork, luxury, and all carved here cast to ruin.

Eleven days later did the armies of the Grand Serdar reach Arslan from Ka'esh. Upon Tabbah First it would be seen first hand by a dispatching from Ephia's Well. As the forces of Ka'esh razed Arslan and purged the lands of any would by sympathizers. Tales and reports vary as they are want in these affairs but I have through archaeological practice attempted to string together a cogent understanding.

Beginning first with the records of Senior Scribe Bashir, of the Diplomatic Seat.

Bashir Khatara
Live and drink... The toll of war is heavy... To the east, not much remains of the communities of Ghrep, or Tu'ral Tur... If you had loved ones who lived there, you have my deepest and most sincere condolences...

This was the first showing of what was to come, as matters escalated further. What was witnessed in Arslan was not spread far and wide, but the implications of such began to be felt across the populace at large.

First from seats of power...

Council,

...outskirts and streets are now swelling once again with refugees...from Arslan, a place made a ruin...a fortress by the generals of Iakmes.  ...observe, hear, and confirm any news about this place.

I am opening this file so that we might...would like interviews conducted of the refugees from here...numbers tabulated if possible.  Can they be armed?  Are there useful folk among them?

Let this file be...for all our concern...regarding this aggrieved nearby neighbor.

-ARGENT,
LEGATE,
DRAGON

While the Gilded Pyramid's focus was on potential use of the refugees as allies and forces for the coming strife with Iakmes, after all those who lose their homes to Orcs may well be eager to march upon Orcs anew. There came from other reportings inklings of possibilities on the wind, of a more clear and organized effort. Reports scattered and sparse.

Buried cache of weapons...discovered during a journey to the Ayyabas...weapons were iron, lacking any maker's mark...and of a quantity to supply roughly twenty to forty warriors... recently hidden. As the Orc favor bronze...likely that these weapons were intended for another. I have my suspicions about exactly who...

...The weapons cache was destroyed by the Vizier. Too hastily...reaching out to the Astronomers to see...dummy box...buried in its place...warded as to alert us...uncovered by its intended recipient...we will want to know.

Lt. R. Colmes
Warmaster

Influx of refugees...odd hidden weapons caches... A picture begins to paint itself.

Though hindsight is forever the utmost clarity that any diviner could ask for rather than foresight, I share a simple message overheard many weeks later between Balestriere Mirielle Rosseau and Legate Balstan in the Krak de Rose.

"We did, Balstan.
We objectively did abandon them."

A choice was made to aid the Boundarymen over Arlsan, prior to the fabled Battle of the Boundary in Tammuz. It was objectively decided by the War Council that the Boundary would be prioritized over Arslan. In that time since Tammuz did Arslan be reached by the Orcs, surrender, suffer and be enslaved, scatter to the winds, and find death at the hands of the Grand Serdar and Ka'esh's armies.

...and in the coming days the Seekers-After-Death would remind all of Ephia's Well of that fact.

With their own version of Total Victory, at Any Cost. As Tabbah would be the month the entire scope and scale of the War would be forever changed.

...as Tabbah 8th, control of Ephia's Well would change hands for the first time since the fall of Ibithal.

End Volume XII

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Scribe of the Sublime Garden


"The Fall of Ephia's Well" - The Battle of Broken Inkwells, Tabbah 8, IY 7788

As the Gilded Pyramid began its robust efforts there were so many undertakings. Broadening of travel, boosting of trade, a rise of merchants visiting, negotiations underway with Gohari Heavy Industries of Baz'eel, and more. The Maestro's Union, after small quarrel with the Glaziers of the White League, building an economic hegemony within the Souk of Salt and Spices. Prosperity abounded as new political titles gave way to new wealth circulated and new business. Yet there is a saying among the Great Ash Desert. Spread far and wide across the sands by caravaneers, boardworker, Stonefolk Laborers, and more:

"Tabbah.
Sweltering Tabbah, wicked Tabbah. Tabbah when Pra'raj dances wanton in the skies,
 and sizzles the skin; claims the elderly, the too-young.
Tabbah, that cruel month."
-Hakawati Proverb

For every two dinar changing hand, there were refugees baking in the cruel sun. Sweltering beneath the misery of Tabbah. Amidst them - whispers of inequity. Tabbah 8th was a day as so many in Ephia's Well. Janissary tending their patrol, Boardworkers tending their contract, Senior Scribe Bashir cleaning up another of Martin Ashbury's unfortunate mistakes, Apothar Estellise Azimi stoking conflict with the local denizens, the Maqbara's call to prayer and mourning, and so much more. For Ephia is a large place housing many and there is always something going on.

Until the quiet of the morning was shattered by a chant of "Bread and Safety, Bread and Home" rising on high. Not from the Bellows as usual feud taken, not in the Plaza with copper cups partaking of water and Voiced debate of antiquity. These were the Refugees, so lauded by the Whites as in need of help. So lauded by the Purple as those that must be protected if they are leal. So lauded by the Gold League as potential allies if they show merit.

A prince in distress, shook the city.

Zosmere Never-Crown
RIOTS...IN THE SOUK. FIRE...SPLINTERED WOOD.
Gather...courage, your discipline...resolve, and extinguish the fire of unrest.

In the sweltering sun chaos ruptured like a blister. Upon the steps of the Temple of B'aara did battlelines begin to draw between the Golds and Whites, between the populace and the Cinquefoil, between fury and anger. A clash of Merchants and Refugees that threatened the age old political feud of the settlement of Ephia's Well. Smaller fires gave way to larger fires, cracks in wood gave way to splinters, and above on high did the Demon merely laugh and laugh.

Such delicious tumult. The chaos long bubbling beneath released. Would these refugees assimilate as the Tonsured accepting the Yoke of Voiced and will of Baz'eel? Would these refugees embrace-

Before any questions could be answered came a call of distress that sent a chill through the spines of all who bore the small clay chip upon their Toga's lapel. All who stuffed the small clay chip into their Worminger's sack. All who stuffed the small clay ship into their potion satchel to hear of the next boardwork contract.

Bashir Khatara
A great throng of orcs is amassing at the Echoing Canyons! They're coming! Please assist in thwarting their passage if you are able!

From the west a massive host of the Orc'ah, the Bronze of Iakmes descending!

They.

Are.

Coming.

Amidst the clarion call of Legate Balstan Gloamingdaith did Commander Rosseau of the War Council begin to amass forces. One of the largest hosts in memory assembled upon the Sand Gate, to march westward and meet the Orc upon the Field lest they reach Ephia's Well and the least defended of its many gates.

As their march began the shade took to rippling with the barest flickers of ash, mixing with the fires coming from the Souk's riot that continued without relent - a number of Janissaries making to secure the outer gate and prevent it spilling into the public space. Orders given that the Refugees outside the Walls - primarily the Gate of Sand where attack expected, were permitted entrance into the City. En Masse they raced and rushed to the fortress of the Krak de Rose in terror and panic.

While reports of the skirmish in the Echoing Canyon vary it is said that by the moment did the Ash grow thicker and start to burn the lungs. Raising ankle deep as Orc'ah rangers and scouts blended and tore through the Ephian Militia with coordinate precision. As the Storm worsened though came call from the Astronomers of Q'tolip - That the storm to the West makes way for Ephia proper. That Citizens should seek refuge beneath the Shade.

While the tale is gripping it is important to take pause. For this is where the stage is set.

Within the Souk at this time the Riot had taken on a robust Gelleman glee, was it a party, was it a riot, was it wanton for the sake of? None I have spoken with could give clear answer but what is known and flung about assemblies even to this day is that Lyrist Domergue and others had sided with the Refugees in arguments vouching for their points and purpose. Ever the champion of the Downtrodden as the White League's impact on history time, and again. Wherever there is injustice they shall aspire.

Within the Krak de Rose, after the Gold Legate's Decree of Sanctuary, did the refugees pour in droves into the city abandoning their makeshift tents and squalor to huddle as throng among the Fortress of the Cinquefoil Rose. A reprieve not only from the threat of orcs to come but the Storm that was expected to ravage much of the region with Ash.

To the West engaging the forces of Iakmes was one of the largest hosts that Ephia has amassed since the War, spurned on by the fact that the Orcs were this time not on the defensive but the Attack - making a direct marching path towards Ephia's Well for the first time in this Conflict.

And in the Plaza of the Pyramid begins to be a fourth outbreak of chaos - The Janissaries of the Fourth Legion begin to redirect their patrols - pulling back from the Gates, pulling back from the Krak de Rose, while they maintain perimeter of the Souk to prevent the riots from spreading further.

And in the cracks between, smiles the Sabotage. As all the chaos comes to a screeching halt. A dead silence overtakes Ephia's Well. The chanting of the Souk dulls to a low din as the despondent no longer worry over the inequity of taxation, the scared whimpers and concerned pleading in the Krak de Rose to allow the throng to stay muted as the blood begins to rung cold.

Scribe Martin Ashbury
[Quivering.] Uhm...

.. help.

The Palatial Pyramid, the seat of the Sultan, the home of the Stele, the path to the Divan of War, the beating heart of Ephia's Well and denoted symbol of Baz'eel's colonial efforts, the very source of the strength of the Accord.

...barred and sealed.

She-The-Annihilate
[The voice of the demagogue who, just hours before, caused such chaos among the Souk, resounds crisp across the Bellows.]

Hark now...the voice of the dispossessed. To the voice of life.

We have taken...your Pyramid... hostages. Great notables...fetid Voiced...Scribes.

Try to force your way in...we will kill them all. Try to slither in...furtive, we will kill them all. We know...your secret ways, your passages. We know the shape of your heart.

We wish to negotiate...

For on Tabbah 8, The Battle of Broken Inkwells had begun.

...Ephia's Well had Fallen.

End Volume XIII

[Random_White_Guy]

Ephia: At War
By Celebyuin Hui'nalyw
Provisional Nadiri of Q'tolip

"CRASH THE GATES" - The Clash of Conscripts, Tabbah 18, IY 7788

The attack of Tabbah 8 would call not only the security of the once aspired "Fortress Ephia" into question, but the very path of Ephian politics for the first time since the death of Legate John Syter and the reveal of Diakosian betrayal. Blood pooling in the streets of the Well as the Pyramid taken, as Martin Ashbury executed, as negotiations undertaken, as orcs attack the Well in full, as Sabotage attempts of the Shade.

As many would anticipate the Government response of the Gilded Pyramid was the pursuit of Total Victory. The long debated, defanged, refanged, and contested "Conscription Act" was put into effect with immediacy. Overnight what was a growing city with aspirations of Metropolis, engaging in war afar, was thrust into the horrors of the Axe brought to the very heart of the city.

Human sympathizers alongside the Orc'ah collaborating during an Ash Storm to exploit Ephia's greatest weakness - It's morality and trust. Masquerading as Refugees upon the Walls, learning the lay of the land, the ins and outs of the politics. Watching, learning, growing. Until the single perfect opportunity to rip at its very soul.

In the aftermath came a swath of mixed emotion - for some, fury. Unbridled fury. Revenge and Wroth spitting across the Bellows. For others, dread. A life of Voiceless hardship in Ephia's Well was now giving way to the orders of Conscription.

La Banda Rossa's rising Balestriere Emiliana Laurenitis was empowered to command the host of Conscripts Voiceless, the Accord were free to "Pick and Choose" among the Voiceless who would make up their hosts, and the Voiced were given a leisurely time period to decide which force of the Accord they would choose to side with.

Scribal hands shaking not from too much coffee, but from the last sobs of Martin Ashbury before being thrown from the top of the pyramid, enacting these new laws and commands as quickly as they could muster. But in the cracks of a vengeful governance the wounds would begin to fester.  Civil blood smeared across sacred stones by most uncivil and violent means.

Ten days later. amassed the force of Cinquefoil and Legion Conscripts, dozens sent to crash the gates of a nearby Orcan encampment. Promises of vengeance, of a better life, of a future draped in Baz'eelan riches. Of the many sent - only a mere five would return alive, be gifted their voice, and be lauded.  Total Victory, at any cost.

This news sent shockwaves through many already unsettled, particularly among the Krak de Rose as quiet consternation grew to open dissidence.  A handful of days later amidst a flurry of calculating declarations by the Dragon Argent - The Grandmaster of the Cinquefoil Rose and Warmaster would march in tandem up to the Pyramid's steps with host behind them in confrontation at the Chamber of Rule.

Tension gave way to debate which gave way to resolution - With a demand that she bow with an actor's aplomb, Conscription was ended with the ease it began.

Lives spent with uncertainty gave way to a question of future upon the battlefield.

...And on the eve of another march that had been scheduled well in advance by the Warmaster to march Conscripts against the great Siege Engines of the Orc'ah.

Only now such would be done without Conscript. Amidst political turmoil at home, conflict abroad, and many still processing their grief as only Ephian's may - Through boardwork, Wine, and Mizzar.

For in a matter of hours would be a massive conflict at the Eastern Front.

End Volume XIV