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Heard in Haven: December 1998
 Title: Citadel's New Banner It seems that in the midst of war and death, someone has kept her sense of humor. At the crack of dawn, when merchants in the Rialto were setting up their tents and stalls for the new day, something different was noticed. During the dead of night, someone had crept out to do a little redecorating. The Delphic Citadel had a new banner flying from the pole in its courtyard. Bluish-grey in color, it waved and billowed quite oddly for a mere flag. It was soon discovered to be someone's tunic. And on both sides of it, someone had scrawled out a picture of a happy face in thick, dark paint. To the Novices' dismay, the Happy Banner was taken down later that morning.  Title: II Imperatoris on the Move! Citizens of Edessa in the Eastern Empyre have recently noticed the start of troop movement in their area. The 4000 remaining men of the II Imperatoris Legion stationed at Argus began the 'march' toward Parnassus to the accompaniment of the cheers and tears of the populace. Supply wagons rolled a few days in advance, escorted by 400 wingsoldiers. The departure from Argus was impressive and orderly and the air was electric with the drama of the emotions associated with impending war. The remaining 2000 men and women of the II Imperatoris Legion currently in Haven are gearing up to leave as well. Rumor has it that they will depart in the early morning hours after a party that is to be held in the Palladium. Praefect Elidi Eleinos Tritonides Augustin will travel with them to take up her command of the reunited Legion at Parnassus. Title: From the Northwest Word comes to Haven of the billowing black pall of smoke rising from the remains of what was once the capital of the Empyreal province of Arelate, Duropolis. It chases along the heels of the refugees that stream into the nearby cities, most pausing only for water and food before rushing on towards the sea, to be as far away from the destruction they are fleeing. A great number of them flee blindly into the surrounding Sylvan forests both to the west and to the east, blind to direction in their utter terror. They speak of a vast sea of Varati warriors, they speak of the desperate and pitched battle at the walls and in the streets, where the night was lit up by stars come to earth in the form of light sparking off of crossed swords. They speak of the glittering lances of the wyvern cavalry and of the archers who cut down the men from amongst their number, sparing none but the women and children and even some of them falling to accident, perhaps. They speak of the stench of blood and burning and that stench rains ashes down on the nearby cities as the Varati burn the corpses of the thousands of dead. Though the smoke may not reach as far as Haven, the refugees do, and they straggle into the city's gates -- the most wretched and ragged group of Empyreans and mongrels alike to be seen outside of Bordertown. Title: The Departure of Arahael The messenger bears the Emperor's sigil and comes directly from Civitas Dei, accompanied by a small group of Praetorian Guards -- a necessity in these violent times. Before long, the subject of his communique has been made public. Deus Arahael Severin Jove, Orator of the Aegis, has been called by the Emperor Lucian Deiepetes to act as his aide in Civitas Dei -- a summons that few would dare to consider declining. Relinquishing his responsibilities as Orator, Arahael makes ready to return to Civitas Dei for what will likely be a very long appointment in the court of the Emperor. His wife, Dea Megeara Lysandra Acesian Jove, plans to remain in Haven to be close to her family -- as it's unlikely that Arahael's new responsibilities will leave him much time to breathe, let alone be with his wife. Also remaining in Haven is Dralo Atreus Jove, the wise and aged longtime advisor to House Jove, to assist the Dea Jove in her duties to home and House. Title: Attack in the Park Word quickly filters back to the Palladium of a brutal attack on the Princeps of the Empyre when he was visiting a park within the walls of Haven. The assailants apparently used bows and fired from the bushes at Lysander and his wife while they talked on a bench. In the melee that ensued, one Praetorian Guardsmen was killed, and another wounded. The Princeps himself was shot in the arm, but his wife escaped harm. The attackers' motives were unknown, but it was clear they were mongrels. The attack has set the Empyreal community on edge, as many regarded Haven as 'safe,' but are now reconsidering their stance in light of the recent incidences involving Larissa's abduction and now Lysander. A statement was released by the Empyreal government concerning this matter: "Citizens of the Empyre. The attack on Princeps Lysander Acesian was an unprovoked assault against the very core of the Empyre itself! No doubt, those actions against our esteemed leadership could only have been carried out by the machinations of our hated foes, the Varati. Our citizens should be free to wander the territory of Haven without fear of such crimes as 'robbery' or 'assault'. The enforcement of law within the Delphic city lies within the hands of the Hounds of Delphi. The Empyre plans not to force itself on that august body during this time of troubles, but be assured that those responsible for this shall be brought to justice. In light of this brutal violation of Empyreal rights, it has been made clear to this government that any Empyreal citizen within the walls of Haven can be assured the personal protection of the Hounds. It is recommended that anyone who might be travelling the streets be accompanied by no less than two such number and perhaps an equal of our own Praetorian Guard. Any citizen who wishes such protection should contact Altair Januarius, the representative from the Hounds to our Embassy in Haven. We encourage each citizen to use caution and travel carefully, for there are forces afoot which would dare to challenge the authority and sanctity of Delphi itself. We stand ready to support the Citadel in all its efforts to enforce peace."
Hector Mangarius Title: Diplomatic Missive This message is announced throughout Haven and other cities, wherever Varati messengers would be allowed to travel: "Loud and long, elements within the Empyreal hierarchy have denounced the Varati and said to the world that it is their fault for the outbreak of this war. Yet, the truth is another matter entirely. "The Empyreal woman named Eranthe entered Varati territory, without permission. This same woman was captured by one of the Varati, without prior knowledge or permission of the God-King or the Warlords of their people. "No real diplomatic efforts were made on behalf of the Empyreans to negotiate Eranthe's release once it was discovered where indeed she was being held. If only some real attempt had been made to ensure her release, perhaps many would not have needed to die. Instead, the Empyreans took it upon themselves to invade Varati territory, destroy Varati property, and end the lives of many Varati citizens simply on behalf of one Empyrean woman. This, they claim, is justice. One Empyrean life is worth hundreds of Varati lives. Their arrogance and racism knows no bounds. "When reparations were demanded for this act of war, the Empyreans completely refused this possibility. Assured of their 'superiority,' positive of their dominance over the entire world, they would not consider making amends for the wrongs they had committed to the Varati. And they assumed the Varati would take this insult and withdraw, once more. "No, the Varati people will not. The Varati will not live under the yoke of the Empyreans. Will the other races of this land bend knee to the Empyreans? Will they allow this racism and open attempts at subjugation to continue? This is the time for all to band together, to put an end to these crimes. "It is also one final attempt by the Varati to negotiate a peaceful settlement to the war. If the Empyreans are willing to make amends for their initial invasion of the Varati kingdom, the Varati will withdraw from their Empyre and end the bloodshed. If they refuse, then the God-King himself shall take to the field and lead his army into victory." Title: House Tritonis Along with the prior message, this once is also announced: "Only a short time back, it appeared that real peace was underway between the Varati and the Empyre. During this period, the Dea Damaris of House Tritonis pioneered the way for peace between the Varati and the Empyre. She shared a vision with the Emperor Justinius -- a vision that the Varati and the Empyre could live side by side, coexisting without hatred. Seeking the God-King of the Varati, she spoke to him of this vision and he, weary of thousands of years of warfare, believed in her words. The three of them were in the process of forging real peace: Justinius and Khalid Atar met on more than one occasion and a treaty was about to be signed when Justinius was struck down by assassins. "Some have accused the Varati of this foul deed, yet they had nothing to gain from such an attack. If the God-King had not wished peace, he would not have agreed to the terms. Assassination would be both foolish and unnecessary for him. And Damaris and others in the Empyre realized this, despite the propaganda to the contrary. And she continued to wage diplomatic warfare for physical peace. Blocked in her efforts by Lysander, Cassius and others, she would not relent, for House Tritonis is known for its wise and peaceful ways. The God-King admired this woman and she was always a welcome diplomat in Atesh-Gah. "The Varati ask now, what has happened to Tritonis? Have they forgotten Damaris' dream, her vision? Would she weep for the needless deaths of both Varati and Empyreans? Why have they allowed that war-like minority within their leadership to succeed, when before they were blocked by Damaris and those who believed in peace. Why is the will of the Empyre subjugated to the whims and wishes of those few who desire bloodshed and strife? And what of House Jove? Have they forgotten the enormous and groundbreaking efforts of their Emperor? Did all he do come to naught with his death? Will they allow themselves to be manipulated? And will the Imperator Stavros forget all those negotiations, he himself took part in, on behalf of peace? Can he lead the Praetorian Guard, in good conscience, in a war he knows is unjust? "It is the will of the God-King, that despite the fact that House Tritonis has been unable to prevent the aggressions of others within the Empyreal leadership, they will be not be attacked out of respect for one of the greatest Empyreal leaders to ever wear the mantle of Dea. Even in the field, even if those who wear the name Tritonis attack the forces of the Varati, their lives will be spared to the very best of the Varati capability. The Empyre may forget so quickly peace, but the Varati will not. We urge House Tritonis, House Jove and those who will not be tricked into a false war, to put an end to this madness." Title: ...In the Street! "...In the street, can you believe it?" The fishmonger's eyes widen. "In front of the Atesh-Gah itself?" His mongrel companion nods. "Oh, aye, a bit aways, so I'm told. Far enough from the guards that the one--or ones--who did it got clean away." "Who got away? Who killed that High Priest of theirs in the middle of the street?" comes the demand. A shrug. "Ach, I don't know. I heard all kinds of things. Some say t'was Grakel's gang. Some say t'was a shadow thief. Some say t'was one of the crazies. But I'll tell you this," the mongrel shakes his finger. "What I also heard was that t'was done with the bugger's wife standin' right there when it happened. Blood all over the streets and I can tell you that's true, 'cause I went there and looked myself, and for sure, the stones were soaked with it. Delphi'd better get quick on their toes; first that thing with that birdie headman and now this. Someone has to stop these Empies and Varati from killin' or trying to kill each other in our fair city." That is spoken with some sarcasm, for the mongrel is a bitter man. "Oh my. Nothing good will come of this. Nothing good at all." Title: Word from Duropolis The laments of mothers and the cries of wives fill the air as the reports come in from the city of Duropolis. Heralds have spoken of complete devastation, the city razed to the ground by the forces of the Varati. The piles of burning dead cast a black smoke into the air that seemed to block out the sun itself. No one escaped the wrath of the Varati: men, women, and even children were killed without mercy by the invaders after the city's defenses had fallen. Few in the Empyre and even elsewhere can remember a time when such a bloodbath had been claimed. The Empyreal military loss was nearly complete, with the entire Seventh Justinius legion meeting its demise in the defense. One Praetor who survived from the Justinius' sister legion, the Victrix pia fedelis, said: "The Varati were everywhere. So many, we couldn't count them all. They swarmed over the walls and into the city. The Justinius was offered a chance to retreat, but they refused to stand down their posts. They gave their lives to give those of us, civilian or otherwise, time to escape that place. I wish I had stood amongst their number on that day. They will be remembered." Title: Statement from the Empyre In response to the attack on Duropolis, the Empyreal government has released a statement: "In all of the days that our scholars have recorded, few can remember a one that called more for lament or sadness. The attack on Duropolis by the forces of the Varati has demonstrated every reason why the Empyre decided to pursue violent action against our ancient enemies. The constant abuses by the Varati against Empyreal citizens has demanded no less. Innocents, women and children, laid to the blade by the violent and self-righteous ways of the Varati warriors then left to burn without proper burial. Atrocities that are unspeakable and so heinous that this goverment cannot help but be moved to continue on this fight until those debts of blood have been repaid. "Even now, Khalid Atar calls for talks of 'peace,' and talks of 'repayment from the Empyreans.' Who will pay the Empyre for the death of those thousands of brave soldiers and innocent women and children? Was it not the Varati who declared war on the Empyre? Was it not the Varati army who invaded the Empyre and so brutally slew a far inferior force? And now they call for a stop to the 'madness.' Who will answer the cries of revenge for the slain? Who will set their troubled spirits at ease? The Empyre will, and reparations shall be swiftly made." Title: Varati Response Announced by the heralds of the Varati: "The statements of the Empyre that the civilian population of Duropolis was wiped out by the Varati forces is an out and out lie. With few exceptions, only those who fought against the Varati army were killed. In any battle, there will always be those tragic civilian losses. Yet, the Varati are not monsters and we have not butchered the civilians of Duropolis. "One must wonder where the Empyre came up with this story? There were tens of thousands of survivors of that battle. Where are they now? Has the Empyre murdered their own people to hide the truth? For if those civilians cannot be accounted for, there is only one reason for it: the leadership of the Empyre has killed or hidden them away so that the truth will not be revealed. "The Empyre continues to attempt to vilify the Varati. We are 'monsters' who hide in our caves. We are 'inferiors' beneath their glorious white wings. Yet, it is only a matter of time before the truth comes out. How many more of their own people will they bribe, murder, and hide away to conceal the truth? And how long is it before the decent citizens of the Empyre absolutely refuse to take part in these atrocities and deceptions that the elite few of the Empyreal leadership spew to the world? "In a final response, the Empyre condemns the Varati for attacking a smaller force. Yet, did they not do that when they invaded the Varati homelands for the recovery of a single woman? And is it not simply a wise military strategy to attack a force that is inferior in size to your own? Would the Empyre have the world believe they are great heroes, capable of defeating vastly huger armies on their own and that they never attack inferior forces? If this was true, would not their 'elite' have defeated the army at Duropolis? "Every word the Empyreal leadership speaks is coated in honey and while their tangled webs are deep and difficult to navigate, if examined closely, the truth can be found. Do not let yourself be tricked, coerced, bribed or forced into believing the Empyre's version of history. It would be the worst crime of all." Title: Rainmaker... Gone? For somewhere in the neighborhood of twenty years now, Rainmaker has been seen about Delphi, as a student, as a teacher, working in the infirmary, and just generally being around the Citadel somewhere. Today, though, it seems she's no longer there. Having submitted her resignation from the Order to the Avatarati, she merely packed up without a word and... left. To where, nobody seems to know. Nobody seems to have really noticed her departure, either, to make a guess. Title: The Locals are Delighted Well, the locals certainly seem to be delighted: the import of Varati goods (by Varati ships, at least) has dropped to almost nothing. There just don't seem to be that many Varati ships coming into Haven's harbor. As a result, the local Varati traders, merchants, and Clans have resorted to making their purchases from local producers. Of course, the cost is slightly elevated you understand -- the war's affecting us all, isn't it? -- and substitutions must be made. It's a sellers' market and the sellers are thrilled. This isn't to say that there are no Varati goods for sale: no one is more thrilled than those non-Varati traders who have managed to get their hands on items of Varati manufacture. In particular, Varati silk items of any kind (raw cloth, clothing, jackets, armor padding, thread, shoes, gloves) are fantastically expensive and the local Varati have begun to truly pine for native spices and curries. Title: In the Corner... Two women speak as they launder their clothes in the ramshackle part of Bordertown that is Fairway Corner... "Here, no', that bird-woman with the crooked wing's been takin' in some of those poor refugees from the war... and not just the ones with wings!" Her companion, Berta, snorts, "An Empyrean giving a rooster's comb for someone 'sides herself? Ye've been drinkin' too much of that homebrew, Elsie." Elsie hmphs and scrubs at her clothes, muttering, "S'true. Saw 'em myself. She's feedin' mongrels and slaves alike when she can hardly feed herself. Crazy as a bedbug, she is." Berta dries her hands on her apron, changing the topic, "Have you seen how much a bit of silk is costin' these days... Why, a pirate could make a bloody fortune at smugglin', if there was a mind for it..." Title: The List Following a visit to the headquarters of the Heralds in Haven by Dralo Jove, a buzz of messengers begin to make their way throughout the city. First in the Rialto, then at the dock and city gates, then in all quarters of the city their voices ring out. The words cried out are not a denunciation of the Varati, nor are they a battle cry to fire the hearts of men and women. Rather, they are a simple list of names. Simple it may be, but the length of the list is daunting indeed. All Empyrean, the names of the first ten thousand or so are preceded by a military rank. After those, the recitation turns to civilian names -- some given with an occupation, or age, but most simply read off as part of the thousands. Though it takes hours to call out, the heralds do so faithfully -- giving a particular emphasis to the portion of the list which names those of their own profession. No quarter or section of the city is spared the ringing tones of their voices. Title: Further Atrocities As word of the events at Duropolis continues to make its way into Haven, news of further atrocities by the Varati continues to be heard amid the whispers. One however, seems to be given a great deal of attention. From the Palladium, it appears as if Lysander and Eranthe Acesian have adopted a child -- a war-orphan. It is said that the child was cut from the very womb of its mother by the Varati and left to die. Only by incredible fortune was the child able to be recovered and come into the hands of the Empyreal people once again. The infant, whose name is said to be Alexander, threatens to become a rallying point for the Empyreal cause, in the face of what can only be termed 'unspeakable horrors.' With the most recent 'list of dead,' rumors of innocents being butchered, and now this, evidence is mounting that the Varati are capable of about anything while under the 'sway' of their God-King. What else will they do in his name? Title: From the Palladium In the interest of increased security at the Empyreal establishments, those in charge of such things have issued a statement regarding so called "free mongrels." "Citizens of Haven. In the interest of keeping the peace and sanctity of our Palladium embassy and our Eyrie, the following declaration is made concerning the status of 'free' mongrels. Henceforth, any and all mongrels who do not directly serve an Empyreal master must seek out the permission of a House Head or a member of the Aegis in order to enter the grounds of the embassy or the barracks. Any mongrel who is caught on said grounds without that permission shall face the full weight of Empyreal justice. The Empyreal government recognizes that Haven has one of the largest populations of 'free' mongrels, but asks them kindly to abide by our laws and traditions when entering our territory, regardless of the reasons." Title: Response Announced within Haven and all cities that will accept Varati heralds: "Once more, the Empyreans attempt to vilify the Varati. And while the Varati ambassadors may not possess as smooth tongues as our feathered counterparts, nor as creative imaginations as the politicians of the Empyre, our capacity at telling the truth appears far greater than their own. First and foremost, it is clear that the Empyre does not wish peace with the Varati, with their continued attempts to rally the nations of the world against them. Any statement otherwise is a mockery, a sham and a lie, for only those wishing 'moral justification' for continued bloodshed and war would mount the massive campaign of lies, deceptions and half-truths that the Empyre has done against the Varati. So it is clear that the Empyre not only desires continued war, but will accept no alternative. Or rather those in power, such as the Princeps, do not wish peace. His attempts, and the attempts of his allies, to bring hatred against the Varati people is clear, blatant and undisguised. The Varati do not butcher women and children. It is not our way. It goes against the very fundamental concepts of honor that our culture is rooted in. And while there will always be individual exceptions to this belief, they do not represent the Varati people as a whole. It is the people of the world who must sift through the lies and determine for themselves what the truth is. Do not be led like sheep to the slaughter, by the extravagant and extreme tales of the Princeps and his minions, into doing or believing something that is fundamentally wrong. Finally, while the Princeps and his puppets in the Aegis cry long and hard about Varati atrocities, one must wonder why he has hired pirate captains such as the notorious Giraldine and others of her ilk to raid innocent and unarmed Varati ships traveling without weapons to Haven? How many peaceful merchants have died at their hands? How many wives will never see their husbands, because the Empyre has stooped to using criminals for the dirty deeds that they will not do themselves? This is truth. This is fact." Title: Speech The following speech was given to an assembled group of diplomats and bystanders both in Haven. "Honored greetings people of Haven. I would first like to take a moment to apologize for what will assuredly be a boring speech. I am neither as skilled as the Princeps or as daunting as the God-King, yet in lieu of my liege Khalid Atar who has regrettably been forced to take to the field, I stand before you and will present a few questions that the Varati government seems unable to answer with the hopes of gaining insight from the esteemed audience. "First and foremost, the Varati government is confused on the state of the child Alexander. Since it is well known that Varati honor forbids our people from killing women and children, we are perplexed as to the reason for why our soldiers would cut the baby from the womb of its mother. I mulled over this question for many hours and still was able to find an answer that made sense to me. "I said to myself, 'Kiral, could it be that those Varati soldiers were hungry?' No, that makes no sense. The God-King provides his soldiers with excellent rations. And why would they eat a child? That would be horrific. And if this was their goal, why did they not devour the child, instead of leaving it aside? "So then I said to myself, 'Kiral, could it be that the Varati soldiers needed sport?' No, I said, for that would be dishonorable. And we already have plenty of games that we enjoy. In my youth, I was quite the zondalo sportsman and it is much preferable to such atrocities as cutting children from the wombs of their mother. If any in the audience are interested in zondalo, I would be happy to give them a demonstration of the game after this speech. "Then, I wondered to myself, 'Kiral, could it be that the Varati are monsters?' No, I said, for we bleed and cry and mourn for our dead as much as any other. And we share in life's joys and tragedies, alike. So this could not be the answer. "Unable to come to some sort of answer to this question, I faced another question. How did the baby Alexander survive? According to the Empyreal reports... Oh, one moment. Let me shuffle through my papers. There are so many different reports on the same event produced by the Empyreans... Title: Speech 2 Continued from the previous speech: "According to one report by the Empyreans, all or almost all of those within Duropolis were slaughtered by the Varati. In fact, they went to great lengths to list all the names of the dead of Duropolis. From what I understood from Empyrean reports, the Varati killed all within Duropolis -- or so said one report. So, I wondered to myself, how did this baby Alexander survive? "Then, I faced another confusing question: How did the baby Alexander survive even if the Varati did not kill all the citizens of Duropolis? Duropolis was taken and destroyed, from what I understand. No Empyreal soldiers or army has been able to take back the location as of yet. So if there was a child there, would it not be left for dead? Or killed by the cruel Varati soldiers? "But even if this was not the case, how did it survive the gruesome event of being cut from the womb of its mother? I spoke with not only Varati healers, who I assure you are the foremost experts on 'war injuries,' but to healers of various races. I was told repeatedly that it would take a healer of amazing skill to have kept the baby Alexander alive under such horrific conditions and that the healer would have to have been present moments after the event to save the child. "Yet, how could there be Empyreal healers of such skill there, so soon? I said to myself, 'Kiral, everyone knows that the Empyre has the least amount of magi in this wonderful world of ours. How could such a great Empyrean healer have been there so soon?' "I scratched my greying hair for many moments while I wondered about this. I also began to wonder why the horrific Varati soldiers would not have killed all healers and other magi in Duropolis, for would not such evil monsters do so? Especially against an obvious threat as magi. Healers could be used to heal Empyreal soldiers quickly, so that they may march against us again. It was all so confusing for me, I am afraid..." Title: Speech 3 Continued from the prior post: "In the end, I was left with so many questions. Confused beyond belief, I asked the great Khalid Atar whether he would entertain the idea of me being his fool instead of his diplomat. But alas, I was granted no succor. My liege spoke to me and told me that I was too intelligent to be a fool. When I look upon the audience here, I realize that all of you share the same fate as I. No escape for us; we can never be fools to a court, I am afraid. "Still, I do not believe I am skilled enough to be a diplomat. When I look upon the words issued by the Princeps Lysander, I marvel at his mastery of language and statesmanship. If only I could twist words in such a manner and make them do tricks that mortal ears would not believe! Or if I could ignite the flames of righteous fury in the hearts of others, as Cassius of House Augustus does, I would never wish to be a fool again! In his infinite wisdom, my liege said that I should offer both the esteemed Lysander and Cassius to teach me their arts and skills. So I hereby extend the offer that my king has given to both great men: an 'extended' vacation in Masada where they may not only tutor me in their vast abilities, but where my king could repay them in kind by teaching them a few of his own special skills. He even mentioned to me that such a thing could end the war. Ah, what a glorious king he is and what a small price to pay for the ending of this bloodshed! "Alas, I am reaching the end of my speech and am still confused. I wonder if I should not hit my head repeatedly against a hard object and then offer myself to be the fool of the Princeps. It may aid me in understanding all of this. For still I cannot understand the existence of the baby Alexander, except to be used as a bloody banner for the Empyreans to rally around against the Varati. "Oh, on a passing note, the Varati government would like to announce that the child Allegra Dionysia, formerly an Empyreal citizen, has renounced her ties with the Empyre and has pledged fealty to the Varati. Khalid Atar himself took her oath of fealty when it was learned that the poor orphan girl had no other to turn to and had been abandoned by her own people. My liege was so good as to give the child full citizenship in the Varati kingdom without bias or discrimination." After the speech was given, Kiral stayed around to play a few games of zondalo with interested parties. While winning a few demonstration matches, he ended up losing with good humor to a couple of younger, sprightly Sylvans. Title: Pirate of the High Seas "A Pirate! Ha!" The Captain of the Memphis, lounging languidly on a bench in the galley of the Memphis has called her crew together along with a few key Empyrean and Varati messengers. She takes a grape from one of the Varati raids and tosses it into her mouth. "Mmm. Anyways, the Khalid, like those," she points to a bag of rotted fruit discarded in the corner, "is suffering from sour grapes. Yes, I am an ally of the Empyre, for they made the best offer and they asked first." She turns to a crew-member, snickering, "They early bird gets the worm, eh? And what a worm those birdies got! I would like to clarify, however, that there have been no Varati deaths by my, or any of my ship's, hands on the sea. All ships that are captured are made prisoners of war and dropped at the nearest Empyreal war camp. If they die there, it is not by any of Giraldine's wishes." Pausing to toss a grape at one of the crew members and have a hearty laugh, Giraldine takes her time continuing. "Ah, the ships are filled and what I find, I do with what I wish, yes. But no one suffers. When the war is over, the seas return to their prior freedom. So," She says simply, as if it hadn't occured to anyone else, "End the war." A short smile before it is down to business. Serious, now, Giraldine announces quite loudly, "I would like to say to those that have said my ships are attacking Atlantean ships: You are deadly wrong. All of my men and women understand that if they even board an Atlantean ship for reasons other than peace, they do so on the pain of death. The Atlanteans are not my enemies in this war. The Empyre is an ally, but no matter what, I will not fight the Atlanteans." She pauses, listening to the quiet mumblings around the room. A question from one of the Varati ambassadors: "Are you, then, acknowledging your Atlantean heritage?" Finally! Darkly, Giraldine answers: "No. I am acknowledging the fact that Atlanteans want nothing but peace, and I am trying to keep them on that road, even if war erupts around them. I am not Atlantean, and neither am I Varati or Empyrean or even Sylvan. I am Halfbreed. My loyalties lie there." A few more questions are yelled out, but Giraldine waves her hand. "One more thing, any 'free mongrel' who does not wish to remain in Haven is invited onto my ship and under my protection. I have a bevvy of ships, they may pick to crew on any of them." She dismisses the messengers and feasts with her crewmates. Title: Public Statement Once more, Kiral Khalida takes to a public forum in Haven to make an announcement: "Honored greetings citizens of Haven and representatives of the nations of the world, I regret that that I have been instructed to make a statement that would put my personal idol, Princeps Lysander, in bad light. I can only hope he forgives me, for this comes directly from my superiors. "The Varati government, having established that the Princeps Lysander's statement on the baby Alexander is blatantly false since it defies all principals of reality, urges the Aegis and the government of the Empyre to conduct a full-fledged investigation of the Princeps Lysander, Cassius Augustus, Eranthe Acesian and other closely tied cabal members of the Aegis so as to uncover the truth on the baby Alexander and other associated events. Since the Princeps Lysander has lied in this case, lied to the Aegis and the people of the Empyre, and since his intent was to force the Aegis and the Empyre into continued warfare against the Varati government, such crimes would be considered capital. The Varati government strongly urges the Aegis to ask for the aid of independent telepaths and clairvoyants from the Atlantean government and the Delphic Citadel to interrogate all above stated members on the issue of the baby Alexander, the motivations behind the war against the Varati and other similar issues. This case is no minor matter whatsoever -- if the Princeps and his allies are found guilty of manipulating the war on behalf of their own private agenda, then the lives of thousands of Empyreans and Varati are on their hands. The Varati government also requests that the Princeps Lysander and Cassius Augustus be turned over to their government, pending the end of the Empyreal investigation for a Varati trial in which both members of the Aegis are accused of war crimes. "Now that the formalities are finished, I must once again apologize to the Princeps Lysander. I cannot believe for a moment that the Princeps Lysander has any ulterior motive or that he has orchestrated this war for his own personal benefit or agenda. I have always looked up to the Princeps, much as a mountain lion looks up to the vulture that soars well above it! "Still, I imagine that such an investigation could solve many misunderstandings, for the Princeps Lysander is such an overworked individual and I am sure his thoughts must be scattered on the matter. Perhaps if a telepath or clairvoyant were employed to assist the Princeps, we could help him piece together all the clues in his mind and find the solution to his problems! "I am hopeful that this will solve many questions, for I am still baffled by certain aspects of the war. Admittedly, I am not a mathematician, yet I am having problems understanding how the life of one Empyreal woman in the case of Eranthe Acesian is equal to hundreds if not thousands of Varati lives, as is such the case when Princeps Lysander heroically led his army into Varati territory to recover her! The only clue I could garner were from some of the Empyre's political texts in which they stated that many in the Empyre believe that because they have the gift of flight and may soar above all other races, they were fit to rule over the world and would do so, even if war was the necessary step to ensure this result. "If that is the case, then I will hurry back to my liege and politely ask him to surrender his armies so that the women and children of the Varati kingdom may become slaves to the Empyre! What a fantastic solution this will be! Ah, I must thank the Princeps for his grand inspiration." Title: On Giraldine Kiral Khalida, much overworked, takes yet again to a public stage: "I will attempt to make this statement brief, since I am sure all of you are as tired of hearing me speak as I am of speaking. "The Varati government feels obliged to point out to the Captain Giraldine that indeed Varati crew members died upon the ships that the Captain accosted. This information was verified by one ship that escaped the Captain's attacks. Perhaps the Captain was enjoying a leisurely drink upon her ship while these events transpired? I can only say, that while the Varati merchants endeavor to do their best to satisfy their customers, even they have problems simply giving up their merchandise to any pirate that comes their way without defending themselves. "Also, the Varati government is slightly confused as to how the Captain can nonchalantly compare the state of the war and the lives of Varati merchants to a bag of sour grapes? While I profess to be no farmer or expert on produce, somehow this statement seems to trivialize one of the worst wars this world has seen in recent memory. I can only imagine that the sour grapes she speaks of are grandly important grapes, indeed. "In addition, the Varati government seems troubled by the Captain's idle attitude to the war. She speaks of worms and early birds and better payment. The Varati government is concerned that the pirate Giraldine seems to devalue the lives lost and the seriousness of the events transpiring. I, on the other hand, believe that the Captain Giraldine was simply making an enigmatic statement on fishing when she referred to worms. "Still, one last question pops into my own mind. I am confused as to how the Captain's Empyreal-funded attacks on Varati merchant ships helps keep the Atlantean people out of the war. The only instances of violence on the seas, to this date, have been perpetuated by the Captain Giraldine and her Empyreal allies. Bloodshed on Atlantean territory, therefore, has been conducted by the Captain. And while I applaud the Captain's heroic efforts on behalf of the Atlantean nation, I am somewhat at a loss to understand how indeed this actually aids Atlantean desires and laws. I am sure the great Captain will explain all of this to me in length, for I am eager student." Title: Pirate, Hmm? Quiet news from within the harbors along the coastal cities: Those ships under the control of Captain Giraldine of the Memphis (The Whip) have started to dock themselves at neutral ports. Sylvan areas, Atlantean areas, and Haven's own docks are filled with mongrel and halfbreed-run ships. Varati ships now pass through the oceans without any of Giraldine's crews 'attacking' them. Giraldine, herself, is said to be in Haven on her ship. The reason for the massive pull out has not been given and many speculate that the Captain has had a sudden change of heart. Or, a sudden heart attack. Either way, the 'Queen of the Top of the Sea' seems to have retired to be the 'Queen of the End of the Docks.' Title: Hound Patrols.... It has not gone without notice that the patrols of Hounds on the borders of both the Varati and Empyreal territories have exponentially increased in the past several weeks. Instead of the occasional single patrol moving through the streets of the area, the frequency of the patrols has steadily increased to the point that it is hard to not be able to see a minimum of one patrol at all times. These patrols are clearly not minor in that they are seldom unarmed and never a single man. They are always made up of mixed-race groups and patrol the districts with an even frequency. This balance between the Empyreal and Varati interests comes as a clearly deliberate move, although no official announcements have come from the Hounds. The patrols have yet to cause any problems with the area businesses or the activities of the governments, but one is forced to wonder what the Archon has in mind. But for now, there is now hardly ever a time on the streets of these districts when a pair of eyes isn't watching. Title: Flight of Fancy Reopening An art merchant and a collector are chatting in the Rialto one day.... Merchant: Hey! Did you hear about that old shop over on Palisade and Vicina? Collector: What? The one that was run by that mongrel smithy? Been boarded up for a dog's age? Merchant: That's the one! The Flight of Fancy! I hear that there was an Empyrean over there yesterday, moving in a bunch of boxes and paintings, and removing the boards from the place! Collector: An Empyrean artist is taking over the old shop?? Merchant: That's what it looks like! Collector: That would be great for me! Finally a good artist in the neighborhood to commission some artwork from! Merchant: Yeah, if he sticks around. They say the guy looks like he's not long out of Civitas Dei, and that shop is situated perilously near the Behzad Clan Hall. Collector: *laughs* All the better! If he gets bumped off by a couple Varati, then his artwork will double in value overnight! Merchant: So true! We'd better start buying from the fool as soon as possible! Both: *Laughter* Title: Arrival in Haven A small caravan of merchants arrived from Varati lands today, unusually accompanied by an escort of Agni-Haidar. Once inside the gates of the city, one small wagon and the elite escort moved into the Atesh-Gah. Rumor has it that two female figures cloaked in crimson silks emerged from the wagon and moved immediately inside. Luggage was unloaded and carried inside by shudra. The whispers from the Atesh-Gah proclaim that the arrivals were two of the Khalid's more favored concubines. Title: Another Arrival About one day after the two more favored concubine's arrival, another wagon,
escorted by more Agni-Haidar came into the city from the Varati capital of Masada.
The proceedings that followed were much the same, though the girl seemed somewhat
more hesitant about just where to go, even if she didn't obviously stray from the correct
path. She didn't have very much luggage at all, either. Rumours are vague, this is one
of the Khalid's newest concubines, and certainly not from any clan of great status.
Lilita would be the girls first name, her clan name alam Zulyat, that tiny kshatri clan,
to the extreme northeast of the Varati realm. Country cousin, so to speak.
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