             |
Heard in Haven: September 2000 Title: Architects, Builders and Shapers Sought Though the smell of charred flesh still permeates the environs of Atesh-Gah and there has not been word from the Queen-Maharani of the Varati, nor has there been an announcement of a winner to the Storyteller Contest, shudra and naraki have left the compound with advertisements. The paper versions are posted around Haven while the servants shout out the information to the illiterate. Your services are sought by the Queen-Maharani of the Varati people. Interested applicants are to present themselves at the gates of Atesh-Gah requesting an interview with the Shakir of Khalida or Farzin Khalida of the Queen-Maharani's secretariat.
Title: No Help for You! Many will, undoubtedly, be glad to answer the Varati Queens call to help rebuild Atesh-Gah. Not everyone though. Word has already begun to filter around the mongrel society, especially in Bordertown. "Don't give any help to the Varati, it's only a slave-prison their building, and would you want your parent/spouse/child to be a naraki for them?" Although some dismiss this as sentimental hogwash, many are quick to add their agreement, and to put pressure on other mongrel's and halfbreeds to stay away from the Varati embassy...not even to sign up to be the most insignificant worker, no matter the money offered.
Title: Murder Most Foul! Fowl? News spreads with shocking speed. Before the very gates of the Atesh-Gah, some insane band of Empyreans (they had wings, what else could they be?) Shot at the Agni-Haidar on guard, actually killing one of the famed Lions of Fire, before fleeing...the readiness of the Varati Guardsmen was apparent as, only moments later a full dozen Lions flooded the street, firing after the retreating assailants. An odd side note might be made that a Varati beggar was found, stabbed to death in the same street. Mad times are these.
Title: Uppity Mongrels? Part Deux! In addition to the whispers that filter throughout the streets of Haven denouncing the Varati, and telling all to refuse their request for aid, flyers are now to be seen as well! That's right, next to every scrap of parchment advertising the opportunity for Shapers is one right beside it, reminding everyone that it is the Slavers who offer this opportunity! They're not to be trusted! They want to enslave us and then beg for our help? Ha! They can fix their own bloody Prison-Palace! Everywhere now whispers are becoming murmurs as word spreads and ideas ignite in the minds of Havenites. 'The Varati can't control their own slaves? They can stand up like this? Look at that! First their 'King' and now this!' But of course it is not only the Varati feeling the squeeze, this message has gone out to every race. Though these rumors have yet to reach the upper crust, it is certainly having an influence on the oppressed and the deprived.
Title: Word Confusion Bahfen the street-sweeper looked at all the notices placed up and down the street. "Bah, when they fall off, more things for me to clean." Farther down the street, a teenage mongrel boy laughed with his friend, pointing at both the advertisement for Shapers and the diatribe next to it. "Look at all the pretty black marks." The mongrel boy's friend asked, "What does it say?" The teenager replied with a shrug, "Eh, how should I know." Bahfen ignored the boys and muttered imprecations against both the Varati Queen and these upstarts.
Title: Trouble in an Alleyway At least the Hounds are earning their paychecks. The body found by a random errand boy gave the poor mongrel lad a shock or two of grey hair for his troubles. The corpse was found (as they usually are) in some filthy back alley, strewn with the typical refuse and transients calling that particular locale home. Hands bound behind the back, the victim was apparently positioned on his knees, facing an alley wall. Throat cut literally from ear to ear, in a manner which could only be described as impeccably clean, and left to die. Which he was kind enough to do. Scattered commentary from the Hounds (what little there was) showed cursory motivation to pursue the killer: the victim was wryly referred to as 'professional borrower,' as well as a low-grade pimp. No comment was offered by any of the Hound officer corps.
Title: Snowfall Haven's climate is typically mild and temperate, and one season tends to fade into the next without incident. But not so, this winter. It has been unusually cold, with freezing rain, ice, and snow, and some of its residents are starting to feel the effects. "I hate this. I hate this." "You an' me both, Derek. Second time my tent collapsed 'cause of this damned snow -- and did you see that cart overturn the other day, from a patch of ice?" "Aye, I did. Business ain't worth spit -- who wants to venture out in this? "You don't think the harbor will freeze, do you? What'll happen if all those ships get boxed in with ice?" "Nah, can't happen. It'll let up soon. It has to..." And yet, the snow keeps falling, relentlessly.
Title: An Odd Cooperation Even as the highly unusual snows descend upon Haven, there has been sited something that's a bit odd. Everyone knows that the relationship between the Hounds and any other military organization residing in the city is always tense at best. It is a quite rare event for the Hounds to be working in conjunction with the embassies. So, amidst the incredible snow fall is an equally incredulous pairing. When the Agni-Haidar venture forth from Atesh-Gah, they are invariably accompanied by one or two patrols of Hounds. The Hounds themselves will only mention the recent troubles with the Varati rebellion as their reason for being there and anyone who can get more than a grunt from the Lions of Fire are doing well indeed.
Title: Papers Disappearing It seems that someone has taken it upon themselves to run around Haven and pull down every one of those posted signs telling the mongrels not to work for the Varati. Overnight, just about all of those papers of disappeared.
Title: The Storm Continues Havenites scurry to keep the streets clear as the snow continues to fall, blocking doorways and clogging the outer roads, making travel and trade increasingly difficult in and out of the city. The Atlanteans comment that the bay is growing colder, and any who wish to dispute the fact need only wander down to the docks to see the thin sheet of ice forming in the shallow waters. Some fisherman have taken to pulling their boats from the water, lest they become trapped in the ice. Prayers are said to various gods, asking for a release from the bitter cold and the almost constant snow, but none come. Some say that it's because Khalid is gone that the weather has turned so cold, perhaps the God of Fire had kept the colder weather at bay? Others call it rubbish, but still eye the heavens hoping for relief. But none comes. In fact, the storms worsen and the temperature is frigid. Snow falls heavier than ever and the winds howl at night, whipping through the city relentlessly. If this does not stop soon, could Haven be buried beneath snow and ice?
Title: The Storm Arrives! The strange prophecies that have haunted the dreams of clairvoyants for days -- weeks, even -- finally proved to be true. For out of the swirling blizzard on a crisp January morning sailed a dark ship, with a mast like a dragon's head. The ship was strange, but stranger still were the beings who spewed forth from it. Like Empyreans... but not. Like Atlanteans... but not. And two who were a little of both, and yet not quite one or the other. They were invaders, these odd Northlanders. The 'Empyreans' were bigger and bulkier than their southern brethren -- they wore heavy furs, wielded axes and blades, and fought with a zealous fury, grinning as often as they shouted, and apparently unfazed when members of their own fell before Haven's forces. The 'Atlanteans' who accompanied them were unlike those known around Haven's waters. Their skin was as pale as ice so that they could blend into the winter's raging snow, though it was seen to change color later, when they battled alongside their winged companions in the Rialto. Linked by intangible webs of thought, they fought as one -- at first, until the intercession of Pasiphae's High Priestess sundered their concentration. The last two could have been halfbreeds, but that wouldn't explain an appearance that was so similar. Frail and fragile they were, with the sleek bodies of Atlanteans, but odd, membranous wings akin to those of Empyreans -- only without the feathers. They brought whales with them, which were spotted in Haven's bay as the longboat arrived. And they brought the storm, too. The invaders landed on the beach and attacked; their goal seemed to be Delphi, for they moved steadily toward the Tower despite opposition from the Hounds, from Messala's forces, from Praetorians, and from assorted citizens of Haven. Men and women all fought bravely -- gallantly... some died, on both sides. The invaders cut a swathe into the heart of Haven where they were at last brought to a standstill by Delphi's mages. But they had tricks of their own. Their apparent leader, a red-bearded, red-winged giant who called himself Thorvald Drengsen, took hostage none other than the Empyreal Emperor, Drusus Marcus Jove, even as his own people were held fast by clinging vines and earth brought to life by elemental mages from the Rialto's very stones. Negotiations commenced, between two of Delphi's Estrella, and for once, Varati and Empyrean worked together as Niherlas Tritonides and Niamh bin Mazat convinced the barbarian leader to release his prisoner. The man called Thorvald did so, and this seems to have forged an uneasy peace between Haven and the invading forces. The wounded were herded into Delphi's practice-room-turned-infirmary to be tended, but it remains to be seen what will happen next. Who are these strange people from the north, and why have they come to Haven? What do they want with Delphi? And how long will they stay?
Title: Increased Security Since the vicious street battles instigated by the Aesir and their allies, security in the Empyrean Quarter has increased dramatically. No one who does not have established, official business in the Palladium is being allowed within the embassy and the entire Quarter is strictly off-limits to the strange winged people of the north, their whale-folk companions, or the half-breeds born of their mixture. Though, technically, parts of the Empyrean Quarter belong to Haven, any who seek to challenge this restriction are directed to speak their grievances with the Praetorian Guard, of whom Theron Marcellus is the commander.
Title: Abused Naraki Naraki dressed in the colors of all the Varati clans that inhabit Atesh-Gah took to the frozen and snow-ridden streets of Haven. For two days running, the naraki were abused by the elements as they shouted at the top of their lungs the following message from the Queen-Maharani. "Varati of Haven, you are all reminded of Khalid Atar's dictate. None who do not insult the honor of the Queen-Maharani and the God-King may be attacked within the walls of Haven. This dictate also holds true for the strange Northmen who have recently arrived. We are a strong people, we do not need to attack these barbarian kafir to show our superiority. These northern kafir shall walk the Varati quarter unharmed, but will not be allowed through the gates of Atesh-Gah." The poor naraki went out every two hours to deliver the message to the Varati masses, but not a single notice was posted.
Title: Trouble Without the Northern Invaders It would seem that on the same day the strange northern invaders cut their swath through the Rialto, a young Atlantean noblewoman managed to find trouble entirely unconnected to them. No one at the Korallion discovered this, however, until late into the night when a hoarse shout from someone unseen summoned the guards to the bridge connecting the embassy of the Children of Water to the rest of Haven. There, wrapped up in the tattered remnants of her fine velvet cloak, was found the unconscious form of Kaiulani, young cousin of the Pandion Decemvir, apparently rendered senseless by a blow to her head. The maiden was discovered to have blood on her clothing as well, though none of it appeared to be hers. Later on that same night, a second shout once more drew the sentries out... and a second unconscious form was discovered near the bridge, that of Ronan, the younger of the maiden's two Pandion guards. The guardsman was discovered to bear a deep bite to his shoulder, and to have been deposited in the same place that Kaiulani had been. Try as they might, however, the sentries found no sign of whoever had brought the two wounded ones to the Korallion, no sign save for the occasional red sprinkle of blood in the snow....
Title: Dead Dogs in the Old City Garden? After the Northern invaders carried out their battle in the Rialto, it seems that violence on a much smaller scale visited the Old City Garden, later on that same day. The next morning, Mongrel beggars spread rumors through Bordertown of six dead dogs found in the Garden -- one of which appeared to have frozen to death, but the other five of which were obviously slain. All five hounds, mangy, starving mutts of various shapes and sizes, had sustained knife wounds in various vital and non-vital parts of their anatomy... and one had had its neck broken to boot. Whatever -- or rather, whoever -- killed the beasts was unable to be determined, but the hungry beggars who made the find weren't in any mood to debate such things. Nor did it take them long to chase off the carrion birds from what was left of the carcasses, so that the remains of the frozen canines might be hustled off and devoured. Hungry as the beggars of Haven are going in the grip of the brutal winter, none of them are about to question even this particular dubious source of meat -- and indeed, more than a few of them are eyeing the starving hounds competing with them for food, as if considering following the example of the unknown dog-slayers....
Title: A Reflection of Ashur Masad... Late in the day, the brilliance of Ashur Masad threatened to slip beneath the horizon, leaving behind winter clouds bleeding reds and oranges. In these waning moments, a reflection of Ashur Masad appeared in the north, blazing and strong. The reflection sat upon the northern horizon, showering the land with a great gold hue. Now and then monstrous bars of light and fire would stretch from the son on his perch down to the ground. When these fingers of fire caressed the ground, the horizon would blossom brightly for a moment, and then grow dark again. When Ashur Masad slipped beneath the horizon, giving way before the onslaught of night, so too did his reflection disappear...
Title: The Blood-Splattered Snow... Twilight saw the streets of Fairway and North plunged into a macabre bloodbath that left dozens of rent bodies strewn carelessly about the snow covered cobble. Tendrils of steam drifted skyward from grisly wounds that left many of the corpses without heads or limbs. From the hideous wounds of these discarded al'Gul, Agni-Haidar, and Hound bodies, blood and melted snow ran in the crevices of the street and collected. Soon it became a nightmarish stream of acrid crimson that collected in a puddle amidst the wagons of Rialto merchants. Overnight the puddle froze, and the morning saw mongrel workers trying to chip away at the lifegiving refuse of the fallen. Yesterday's afternoon saw the birth of the hideous scene. It began with the struggling and mutterings of Haven's citizens as they tried to negotiate the strange obstacle of ice and packed snow that claimed so many, pulling them uncontrollably groundward. So focused were they on finding purchase on the slick streets that only a few noticed the Hounds leading a contingent of Agni-Haidar and a palanquin they guarded. The procession, carrying the standard of the Maharani herself, moved carefully towards the Delphic Citadel. It did not get far. Just north of the Bastion, the alleyways exploded and disgorged heavily armed and armored Clan al'Gul warriors. Leading them was the man who had proven to be a bane to the city for weeks past, the Seraskier Mehtar. The attacked momentarily stunned the Hounds, but Agni-Haidar merely hefted hand crossbows and unsheathed blades. Yet the attack did not immediately come, it was stalled by the slick ice that claimed some of the al'Gul's number. Others were felled by a handful of black bolts that sought the skulls of the attackers, but that only delayed the assault. When the al'Gul warriors slammed into the Agni-Haidar defenses, the fight became a hideous affair. Black bolts ruined the faces of attacking clansmen and falcare wielding guardsmen slew those who came too near. Yet the numbers of al'Gul continued to collect around the palanquin, and the sheer weight of their warriors pressed inward against the Agni-Haidar and began to open up seams in the defenses. Largely ignored were the Hounds, who quickly rallied and bravely hacked against the flanks of the al'Gul warriors that outclassed them in arms and armor. Skulls were cloven, armor rent, flesh torn, and blood spilled. Soon the bodies of the felled collected on the streets. Their wet blood, crushed organs, and eviscerated bowels added to the icy slickness of the streets, causing warriors on all sides to lose footing and stumble groundward into the filthy gore. In the midst of the madness, al'Gul Clansmen penetrated the Agni-Haidar perimeter and found the palanquin. The litter carriers were slaughtered, causing the palanquin to tumble to the ground and spill it's precious contents: The Maharani. Cries of exultation arose from the al'Gul, their victory so near. In the center of the chaos, the Seraskier Mehtar battled the Kaimakam Amipal for the life of the Maharani. During this melee, the clansmen was distracted by something about the Maharani, allowing the Agni-Haidar officer to severe a morningstar wielding hand from his body. In a fit of absolute rage, Mehtar battled the Kaimakam to his knees when he cried that the Maharani was a false one and they had been tricked. From the ruin of the shattered palanquin, the Shakir of Clan Khalida and the daughter of the God-King himself arose and flashed a victorious feral grin at the Seraskier of al'Gul. Immediatly the clansmen tried to disengage from the mortal melee but stumbled on the bodies of the fallen and the Hounds at their backs. Outclassed, the Hounds fought valiantly and smartly. They focused their combined energies on a single warrior, and then worked not to subdue but to slaughter the attackers. The Hound Caleb led the endeavor and was said to have crushed the skull of a monstrous warrior with repeated blows of his heavy quarterstaff. The retreat of al'Gul was also hampered by the appearance of an Atarvani Akhund. Already an imposing figure, he began to change upon witnessing the sight of the Agni-Haidar locked in combat. His head grew wider and hands larger. The pupils of his eyes became slits and teeth grew into vicious fangs. The Akhund assumed the half form of a Lion and descended upon the al'Gul, ravishing their ranks with his wicked yhatagan. One of the final sights of the grisly scene was that of this Akhund brutally sawing through the armor of an al'Gul foe, slowly and torturously harvesting his life. In the midst of the al'Gul retreat, the Seraskier Mehtar abandoned his mortal fight with the Kaimakam Amipal and tried to flee the scene. Clutching a ruined wrist that refused to stop bleeding, he stumbled into the Hound Commander Caioma. He towered over her and grinned a knowing, cruel, and insane smile. The clansmen tortured his prey with unyielding taunts hinting at some past encounter and then leapt at Caioma. The two fought briefly, but Mehtar's loss of blood caused his attention and attack to falter. It was not long before the Commander managed to bury her sword's edge into the unprotected neck of the Seraskier, but at a price. Exposing herself by attacking, she absorbed a massive blow to her midsection by the clansmen's morningstar and the blow sent her reeling. But the victorious blow came too late to save the Seraskier. The warrior's eyes went wide and he tried desperately to protect his neck's wound with the hand that no longer existed. He stumbled to a knee and ultimately toppled groundward, lifelessly still. Blood from wrist and neck pooled as one, melting the dingy snow mixing with that of others'. Those clansmen that could flee did, but it was a pitiful few and they left behind a wealth of men in the torn and rent bodies that remained, among them the man called Mehtar who brought so much chaos upon his arrival in Haven.
Title: While in Hibernation, Still I... ... dream... It has been a cold winter, and I, Siraj-Mah, sleep upon the last rat taken from the Rialto's infestation. I long for the day when the sun may warm me. When I may lie upon heated rocks and coil within the tangle of renewed life. But... it is not time yet. I can feel the world is still cold... in moments when I think to rise... I lay curled in my basket, upon the cloth that should be my clothing when as a man, and serpentine the images come to me. I dream of fire. Fire that licks against the iron of a metalsmith's anvil. Fire that tastes of the air, even as I do... forked, searching. Fire that consumes the ore of the earth until it drips gold and red. I dream of wind. Cold wind. Frigid wind that does neither quenches nor cools the fire, but fans it. Encourages it. I dream that it freeze the earth. I dream that there will be no sun's return or promise of summer... I dream that there will be no sweet fruit, no more baskets to steal within... I dream... And though I fear it, I cannot wake...
Title: The Return When the sun finally slipped beyond the distant horizon and the curtain of night was drawn behind it, stars blazed in earnest high up in the distant sky. Not long after their appearance, one of their number seemed to move across the void. This star blazed brighter than the others, and soon its light became even more brilliant as the celestial body descended from the heavens. When it neared Haven, the nature of the star became more obvious. What was thought to be a star was not, but rather a monstrous phoenix wrought from the flames of Ashur Masad himself. Massive wings of fire stretched wide to break the divinely forged creature's descent, but not enough to prevent the shudder that rippled through the city upon its landing. The sudden appearance of the fiery being sent patrons of the Bordertown into terrified retreat. They abandoned their shanty homes and pitiful belongings so that they might more quickly flee the scene. The Phoenix surveyed it's domain for a moment, and then dissolved, shrinking and changing shape so that it became a winged man swathed in flame. Soon too did those flames vanish into the night sky, leaving behind a veil of ash to obscure the dark and brooding features of the Varati God and King. Khalid Atar watched the panic around him with a gaze of flame. After long moments, the Varati faithful appeared, drawn by the omen in the night sky. Upon witnessing the return of the God, they prostrated themselves before him in loyal greeting, the Atarvani at the fore. The Amir-al walked among the faithful for a moment, speaking sparingly, and then strode towards the monolithic embassy of Atesh-Gah.
Title: The Watching ...and where the Varati faithful prostrated themselves at the return of Khalid Atar, Delphi stood. And watched.
Title: The Unseen The night sky spat out a star, and that star became a flaming bird and that bird, a flesh winged man. This omen-made-living deceived even the finest of observers into believing that the Khalid Atar returned from wherever he'd been, alone. But the very few who may have lingered, or returned, after the God-King's exit would have noticed the frayed and gaunt figure of a brown-winged halfbreed. Still, Kiera stood, as if struck dumb and blind. Still, and with her wings cowled around herself defensively as she listened to the night-time sounds. Only when one of the Faithful -- Kasim al-Behzad -- offered to lead the halfbreed home, did she animate -- and then only into exhausted agreement. Those on the streets may have observed the pair as the Varati man escorted the stumbling, shuffling halfbreed to the gates, and as Kiera was received within Atesh-Gah.
Title: Rumors of Peace Since the return of the Varati God-King, joyful rumors trickle through the gaping maw of Atesh-Gah telling of an end to the Varati Civil War. This they all agree on. The nature of this peace is a disputed thing. Talk of Clans destroyed is mated with contrary stories of sacrificing kshatri heirs to honor Khalid Atar and spare the Clans a fiery fate. Other rumors tell of flocks of boys and young women to be surrendered to the Varati God. The women are to be used as his concubines to fill his new harem. Varati say that the boys shall be awarded to the Agni-Haidar to replenish their awful losses suffered in fighting the massive Clan armies. Also, the office of Pasha in the Kingdom's provinces are eliminated and Atarvani shall be made Advisors to see that the God-King's will is enforced. Perhaps most alarming of these stories is the one concerning Avalon. For insults delivered unto the Varati god by the mongrel nation, the Amir-al is revoking his protection of the fledgling nation and invites any clan who desires that land to seize it for their own mulk.
Title: The New Caste "Hear ye, hear ye. On this fifth day of February, in the year three thousand nine hundred seven, let it be known that the Tower of Delphi shall recognize the caste of Aether Elementals." That's what the Heralds have been calling for most of the day, until the cold weather and more interesting rumors soon tosses this bit of news to the wayside. Some more closely affiliated to the Tower chat about the private ceremony held in the dead of night, presided over by Sibyl Cassandra Adeera and Adept Cepheus Tritonides, the former Archon. Some expected that Estrel Constantine Danaides would have acted in Tritonides' stead, since he holds the rank of Magus Aether Elemental, but for some reason this was not the case. Those who were wondering if there would be new kaftans for this caste did not have long to wait before finding out. As is traditional for the Elementals, grey is the chosen color, trimmed with purple to signify their specific ability. The amethyst was selected for their rank pin pips.
Title: Caravans of Silk "I've never seen so much silk and gold," the girl said with awe. She looked down at her own clothing -- by Haven standards it was fine and rich, but in comparison with the passing splendor she felt like a pauper. Ponies and horses bedecked with fine jewel-encrusted trappings stepped lightly through the cobble-curbed streets of the Varati Quarter, bearing warriors of stiff and important demean. Hands on their swords and spears, the men's eyes scanned the vicinity for danger. There was none to be found in the crowds that gathered on the verge to watch the caravan pass. In the center, three palanquins swayed, the most lavishly decorated of all. "Who is it?" The girl said, awed, looking up to her elder brother. He peered at the heraldic signs woven into the silk, at the delicate writing painted and embroidered on the masses of ribbons waving from the palanquins' posts. "It says...they are Vizkar, that's the Clan name. The Jorin's caravan was finer," he noted. "It's all so lovely," murmured the girl. She stepped closer to her brother as those around her jostled for a better view. "It's as if every Clan is sending the Khalid a concubine. It's like a festival. How many days will it last?" "I don't know," said her brother. "A long time, I think. Look," he pointed up and down the road. "When the merchants set up booths along this road, you know it's going to go on for a while."
Title: Rumors... Questions arise from the most recent incident in the Palladium, the attack of Cassius, the Deus of House Augustus. Even if they managed to escape the Praetors, how is it they managed to avoid the Hounds that seem to be ringing the Palladium? And what part of the city is being left unguarded?
Title: Also from the North As quickly as you can slip on an icy cobble, word travels through the Palladium and beyond: although delayed by sleety skies, the Empress has finally returned to Haven after hearing news of the invading Northlanders -- and with concern, surmise the more romantic gossips, for her husband after his brief capture. She arrives after a long sojourn in the war-ravaged northern provinces of the Empyre. Warming their winter-coarsened hands upon skyphoi of specially spiced ambrosia, the less taciturn among the Schola who escorted her on her travels relate the Dea Maxima's various missions of mercy in past months: her no-nonsense aerial tours of each town and surrounding countryside so that she might assess remaining war damage; her calm discussions with fretful provincial governors and Aegians; the careful notes she had taken on their food and building supplies as well as on their future plans, so that the Empyre's reconstruction efforts might be better coordinated; the carts of clothing, blankets, canvas, and grain she directed toward camps of refugees; even the autumn morning when she was asked to inaugurate lessons at a freshly-rebuilt school, a catch briefly evident in her voice as she led thirty rambunctious winged children in a simple, ancient song devoted to rain, earth, sun, wind, and finally the Emperor. Perhaps now, though, such energy is needed more in Haven...
Title: The Siren's Song... Its cold. Damned cold outside. Yet there always seems to be a fire and warmth inside the Siren Song... and good companionship too. Long known as a haven for anyone, the Siren Song is always open for new visitors. There are the Cyprians moving about making sure EVERYONE is having a good time. If that does not get you moving (you've not got a pulse) then there is always a card game happening or getting close. Watch out for flying mugs though, cause things can and will get rowdy in the Song. Course, that may just be that some of the Cyprians are dancing, but it could also be a brawl breaking up a friendly bit of banter. Fight all you want boys and girls, just remember not to draw weapons, or Bruno, Eric, and Dani may have to get involved. When that happens, people are usually seen to the door, and who would want to go back out in that cold?
Title: The Prodigal Returns... ... or something like that. As the ice breaks and slowly-shrinking floes float about, it is still nearly impossible for larger trading vessels to navigate the bay. But weaving through this ever-changing maze came the sleek lines of a small, but somewhat familiar ship. The Sea Urchin, which spent most of the past six months and the milder summer season tied to its berth on the docks, fled Haven on the wings of Elemental-born wind just before the winter storm descended upon Haven, closing it off from sea trade. Now, it has returned, its body weighted down in the water with whatever precious cargo its captain and mate managed to find in their spurious voyage south--cargo interesting enough to draw no little attention and warrant the setting of guards upon the ship until such time as it can be offloaded. As well, the captain and owner of the ship--an unassuming slip of a girl known around Haven as Grace, and a relatively unfamiliar Empyrean fellow going by the name Anders--seem to be doing quite well for themselves. While they show signs of the hard voyage the marks of warmer, friendlier climes to the south are unmistakable upon them both.
Title: Delphi Declares Peace The news spreads quickly from Delphi -- borne first by Heralds, and soon thereafter by the ever-churning rumor mill. Delphi has negotiated a peace with the Northerners -- the Najada and Aesir. Chief among the word that passes along is that the Northern invaders have agreed to pay blood-money, what the Aesir call wer-guild, to the families of those Hounds who fell in the defense of Haven. Similar offers, word holds, have already been made to the Atlantean and Empyrean governments, and likely a similar offer waits only on a formal meeting between the Northerners and the Varati. The Northerners, the Heralds go on to say, have also sworn never to take up arms against Haven or its inhabitants, and have agreed to henceforth be subject to the laws and judgement of Delphi while within Haven. As a result of this agreement, Delphi has lifted its restrictions upon the Aesir and Najada -- who may now move freely throughout Haven, sell and trade under the same taxes and tariffs as any other, and even acquire property. That is, if anyone should care to sell. Haven has acquired a strange new set of inhabitants...
Title: Peace, and Rumors of Peace While the word from the Heralds coming out of Delphi is rather rosy sounding, the whisper-stream of rumor and innuendo casts a somewhat harsher light. "Ya heard, right? All this about the Aesir payin' blood money, well, it ain't all that clear. See, the way I hear it, only their Hoevding chap is payin' it. And that crazy lech Axel is chippin' in a wee amount. But get this, to them, it's an insult to even offer it. And they figure that anybody what takes it is showin' themselves as weak. Somethin' bout not payin' blood money to real warriors." "Ya know what else I heard? The deal only lasts as long as the one what made it is the Hoevding. And only for his clan. And there's loads of other clans up there. I even hear some of 'em are looking to buy their own land near the city... establish a colony or some rot. Can ya imagine?"
Title: New Archon Throughout the city of Haven, the Heralds are being kept busy with the latest announcement from Delphi. Calls of "Hear ye, hear ye!" punctuate the frosty winter air, and once enough denizens have gathered about, the report goes something like this: "Let it be known that on this day, Sunday, the eighteenth of February, in the year 3907, Archon Pro Tem Dohosan Eagle-Eye has resigned. In his place, the Council of Estrella has appointed Amaris Caioma bint Tariq al'Shirfa to the position of Archon of the Hounds." There's little more to say than that, officially at least, but gossip seems to question how well a woman will rise up to her new rank in comparison to Cepheus Tritonides or even Dohosan.
Title: They're at it Again?? Gossip starts to float on the winter winds, seeding the Rialto with the flowers of open ears. In the midst of a midday break, three merchants get together to talk about events of the day. Atlantean: Hey, did you hear about that Praetorian Guard stuck in the Palladium? They've got a dozen Hounds watching the place for him! Mongrel: Wha? That Antoninus guy? Heard 'e was a big time killer. Killed some seven 'er so people, including Atar's old Foreign Minister! Empyrean: I don't know what you guys are complaining about. I think the man's done a big service, killing off some of these Varati that infest the city. Especially that Kiral Khalida. What a big mouth. Atlantean: Oh come off it. You know that guy was making at least /some/ sense. Some say that's why he was killed. Mongrel: I dinnae know anything from anything. I'm jus' passin' along what I 'eard. Empyrean: Well, I know that the guy trying to arrest is going to get it. That Commander Chryseis? They say the Imperator pulled all his rights to enter the Palladium again. And good riddance. He's so beneath those Nobles, he doesn't deserve even the rights to polish their shoes. Atlantean: Julius, I think you've lost your mind somewheres. That Commander Chryseis has been working his tail off to try and keep the city safe, against both incredible odds and hostile politicians. You have to give the man credit. Empyrean: Hmph. You can give the man credit. Me, I won't give him a lead dinar. The man's a Varati lapdog and everyone knows it. Just like the rest of the Hounds. Mongrel: I know where this 'ere conversation's going... Atlantean: Now you just hold your tongue, Julius! The Hounds are neutral guardsmen! Just because the Empyreans get into more incidents with them doesn't mean anything. Why, .... And so the conversation moves on into the realm of politics in general.
Title: One Less Hound... Few may remember the noble countenance of Hound Commander SunHawk; he blended well into the background of the Rialto and was familiar to some by face if not by name. Because of his understated presence, a few days may be required for some to realize he is no longer about. Not in the Rialto, not in the Bastion, not in Haven. It is said that someone some distance away required him, perhaps his own family - Empyrean noble, it is believed - but no one knows to where he went. What is certain is that his commission was resigned from the Hounds, and what he took with him was the entirety of his possessions. Rumors state that his letter of resignation was left on the Archon's desk before dawn, and he departed with no word of farewell. He disappeared, as it were, as soundlessly and unobtrusively as he arrived.
Title: Missing Child Reward Distributed throughout Haven by either word of mouth or on flyers posted visibly at busy street corners: MISSING! LARGE REWARD IF FOUND! Last month a young Atlantean by the name of Aquafina disappeared from her ocean home for unexplained reasons. After an extended investigation it is believed that the young maiden has run away from home although kidnapping has not been completely ruled out. If you have seen or know about the whereabouts of this young teen please contact your local authority immediately. A partial reward will be given if she is found. If you can capture young Aquafina that too is allowed but she must be unharmed in order to receive the full reward. The girl possesses magic abilities and must be returned quickly to home for her own wellbeing. Please make haste, her parents are very worried. Description: Approximately 5 foot, light build, pale skin. Sea green eyes with matching finger and toe webbing along with elbow fins. Dark hair with fair features. *Animal features are a possibility.*
Title: Avalon, an Update Not often does any news come down the line from Avalon, the Free Mongrel Country, which is a good hard day's flight with a tailwind for even the Empyreans, but recently, in spite of weather and threat of Funny-Lookin' Birds and Fish, Haven has had an influx of them. "It's those damned Varati!" someone might be heard saying. "Sure, they might be rebels, but that don't make them any better." Dark murmurs, in dark bars and in the places many Avalonians are looking for work, suggest that the Varati themselves will have to deal with them eventually ... and might not stop until they're standing at the Gates of Haven. In fact, if I can entertain everyone with a recent joke I heard on the Streets of Haven. "How many Varati does it take to start a war?" / "Is this a trick question?"
Title: Ares Ascendant It would seem that there has been rather a 'changing of the guard' of sorts in House Ares. Constantius Stephanos Areides, son of the late Stephanos Martinus of same House and the Lady Julia Livinia Verus, quite a political unknown in Haven, has emerged as the new Deus of said House. He had a slightly distinguished military career of some years back, but reportedly had no desire to ever Praefect, reveling in the bureaucratic and strategic duties that rank afforded him. Word has it he's spent years cultivating House Ares holdings throughout the Empyre, a bit of a recluse in society. But if it is understood correctly, he's come to Haven and taken up the reins of power within House Ares in order to finally settle down. One might wonder, however, just what sort of plans this unknown quantity has in store, when even his own family has little knowledge of his personality and tendencies.
Title: On The Move The young boy is in awe. "I tell you, it was a swarm. They covered up the sun!" The girl is skeptical. "I can't imagine a bunch of chicken-wings being able to cover up the sun." "But they did, and they was glittering, too. My Pa said he'd seen it before, he said it were a bunch of them soldiers, what was going off to war." "Prae--prae-tor-ians?" The girl works her way carefully through the question. The boy nods. "Yeah, that was it! He said the glittering was their spears. He says they was heading up to Avalon. He was confused about that, he was, and worried too -- he says them mongrels like us up there, they better be careful, 'cause the soldiers would just as soon turn around and make slaves out of them as help them. But he says them bird-men hate the 'Rati more than they love taking slaves." The boy is referring to a recent military flight from Civitas Dei heading inland towards the beleaguered Mongrel nation; Haven has seen few of these as rumor has it troops are being called from other portions of the Empyre. However, Praetorian orders for various useful goods and material from Haven merchants has increased -- from Empyrean merchants, mostly, so while they brag that their wealth is increasing they are likely to keep mum on the topic of exactly what is being shipped.
Title: Turning the City Upside Down "Hear ye! Hear ye!" Heralds circulate through the streets of Haven, pausing at every corner to read aloud the text from neatly scribed parchments. "Due to its refusal to enforce Delphi's laws, the Praetorian Guard's law enforcement power in the city of Haven has been revoked by the Estrella. Effective immediately, no Praetor has the authority to act as a city guardsman. This policy will remain in effect until such a time that Delphi's confidence in the Guard's commitment to uphold the laws of the city is reestablished. "Until that time, the Hound forces will be supplemented by soldiers belonging to Clans Messala and Khalida and also by the Korallion Guard. Each of these additional guardsmen will wear an indigo and black sash over his standard uniform to signify the fact that he is acting in cooperation with the Hounds." Having delivered the message, the Herald then moves on to the next corner to begin again.
Title: Varati Amongst the Empyreans? Word begins to spread in light of Delphi's proclamation, and rumors scatter through the streets like streaks of flame through dry brush. Apparently, there is a movement in the streets that is causing quite a bit of interest. It seems that the Hounds have all but pulled out of their patrols in the seaside/docks district, leaving only a bare skeleton force behind. In their place are patrols of Atlanteans wearing Korallion Guard insignia and sashes of indigo and black. The normally sparse Hound patrols in the Empyrean quarter have been beefed up, and they're being supplemented by four-person patrols of Varati soldiers bearing those same indigo and black sashes over Clan insignia. What's the world coming to? There are Varati Clansmen charged with enforcing the law in the Empyrean quarter!
Title: Praetorian Response With Delphi's latest pronouncement, and Varati patrols on the streets of Haven's Empyreal Quarter, the Praetorian Guard had a few tense moments tonight. The arrival of Legate Claudius Areides, in Haven for the night to attend a function in the Palladium, eased tensions somewhat as the newly-named Aegian took charge of the situation. The word quickly went out to all Praetorian units that, effective immediately, their powers and duties as guardsmen of the city were revoked. Instead of vanishing from Haven's streets, however, the Praetors were quickly redeployed in the Empyrean section of town, with orders to protect and defend Empyrean citizens and property only. After receiving their orders from the Legate Areides, the Praetorian Guard resumed their patrols, offering no challenge to the Varati troops acting under Delphi's auspices. When asked, the Guardsmen would only say that they were on routine exercises.
Title: Varati Presence in the Empyrean Quarter? By the time midday has come and gone, and Varati presence has been in the Empyrean Quarter for the better part of the day, do the insults truly start up in earnest. Praetorian Guards, stripped of their Haven rank, still walk the streets of the Quarter, giving wide berth to the Varati Hounds, although words shoot back and forth before the two groups faster than any amount of arrows could. Aside from scattered instances of some brick tossing, and a few fistfights, it is amazingly peace, considering the parties involved. Although it seems that peace is due to be smashed soon. A group of Praetorian Guards have started to gather near the gates of the Palladium. Just barely out of Haven jurisdiction, the hotheaded firebrand known as Zephyr can be seen preaching, cajoling, and in general, raising the rabble against the "offense of being "protected" by groundhugging rats placed within our glorious quarter by that council of halfbreeds, dark magicians, and cyprians." with a crowd of people around him, of the noble, commoner, and Praetorian castes. The bigger problem is that more than a few can be seen walking away, nodding in agreement with the marked Praetor. How much longer can this tense peace last between the citizens (and denizens!) of the Empyrean quarter and the Clansmen Hounds of the Varati?
Title: Northern Exposure Despite all the irregularities and tensions of recent events on the streets of Haven, commerce goes on. After all, as many say: the business of Haven, is business. Today the Rialto is buzzing with news once more of the Northerners. This time, however, the talk is on trade. "Have you seen what they're selling?" one portly cloth merchant asks his fellow. "What, raw meat and blood?" a lady passing by sneers. "No! Furs! Furs like you've never seen, either! They're thick and soft, not to mention warm enough to make what we have seem like paper! And white, too. I heard one of the dyers crowing about how well they'll take colors, and how it should increase his business to boot!"' "Hmpf," the other merchant snorts, "like I could afford that. What else do those damn barbarians have?" The first merchant grins, always appreciative of an interested audience. "Well, they've got the most interesting bone carvings, call it scrimshaw or something. They say it's from whales! They've even got this game, called tafl, where the pieces are made from carved bone. But that's not all. They've got some of the strongest mead I've ever tasted, not to mention this new drink they call akavit. I don't know what's in it, but it tastes like fire, and laid ol' Burrt flat on his back after just a few sips." There's some more interested conversation, then the small knot of people disperse.
Title: Dancing up a Storm... "Like what y'see, boys?" The young red-haired Cyprian sidles up to a couple of sailors. "Uh... yeah..." A couple of jaws are hanging open at where Jenean has just finished another dance. "She... uh... gettin' better at that dancin'..." Kat giggles, slipping into one of their laps. "Mmm. No kidding." The owner of the lap's arms go round her, involuntary. "It true she ain't had a fella as a customer in weeks?" "Mmmhm.." A provocative wiggle and a knowing laugh. "Ain't had anyone..." "Yeeah. Dancin' like that she c'd have whoever the heck she liked. If she's got somethin' needin' scratchin', why don' she flamin' ask?"
Title: Preacher Man "They took 'im down." The mongrel nodded sagely to his companion. "Said he was a demi-god or dema-god, or somethin' like that.." The companion arches an eyebrow, "Are you sure? He doesn't seem like the type to just roll over.. even for his superiors in the Guard..." The mongrel nods and grins toothlessly, "That's what I hear.." With two days of preaching to the population, and inciting those within the Quarter, the gates of the Palladium falls silent again.
Title: Shipping Out! It would seem that there is a great deal of action upon the docks, despite the fact that the weather is still bitter cold. Yes indeed, large crates, supplies, food, and men are milling about the Amarada, readying her to set sail, her Empyrean Captain, Demetrius, often seen upon her decks surveying the work and making sure that everything is going smoothly. But who would be putting out in this kind of weather?? It would seem that Captain "Dauntless" Demetrius, so called by those who find his wild exploits and dangerous journeys too crazy and perilous for their liking, has found the sea calling to his very blood. Word on the docks is that he has agreed to act as cargo hauler for the Aesir - he will be taking goods from Haven to their homeland, along with some of their sailors, and will be returning with a shipment from their shores back. Those who know the sailor smile and place wages on just how fast the Amarada will grace the docks of Haven once again, while others who are less confident bet on the good Captain ne'er returning to these shores again ....
Title: Grumblings With the Varati now added to the Hounds of the Delphi, it seems that all the suspicions of the people have been confirmed. "Yep, see! I told you the Varati controlled the Delphi!" "You sure did! I knew it! I knew they would make the Delphi let them take over the Hounds!" "Its just the next step towards them taking over the Estrella positions and then officially running Haven!" "They already have the Estrels in their pockets, that halfbreed king of theirs is probably gonna take Niherlas as the next member of his harem!" chuckles "He'd probably look good in one of those outfits those girl's wear, neh?" *more laughter* "You know how he fancies them Empyreans and their pretty white feathers.." "I don't care what anybody says, its happening, the Varati are officially taking over Haven, and I'm getting out before they start trying to kill us all again just because we don't carry weapons or go to that blasted temple to worship the halfbreed or his collection of Empyreans!" "Yer right, I'm trying to get out too." The word on the street has many uneasy about the Varati 'joining' with the Delphi. Most seem to believe it is just another way for the Varati to assert their supremacy over the other races of Haven. ...And this is despite the fact that the Atlanteans have been assisting the Hounds as well. That seems to have gone more or less unnoticed.
Title: Departure from Haven Rather than taking to the air on a wyvern queen, an entourage containing Thalia Jovia Tritonides Khalida left Haven late this afternoon. Rumor has it that Khalid Atar has removed her status as Queen-Maharani of the Varati kingdom. The woman was escorted by Agni-Haidar, but did not take members of her household.
|
