The Tale of Hieronymus, Part Three,

Subject: The Tale of Hieronymus, Part Three,
Author: Hieronymus Graubart
Posted on: 2016-06-21 14:00:00 UTC

is obviously a sequel to this.

The humble hermits request was met with grace. But rather than finding the rest he had hoped for in that tiny corner at Arkive, the archivist’s new apprentice was immediately sent off to demonstrate and improve his Eich-Tee-Ehm-Ehl skills in the devastated lands.

While Hieronymus was supposed to travel between Arkive and the river Freewep, he somehow became sidetracked to the City of Borrd. He arrived just in time for the annually Baronial Council, where he barely escaped imprisonment and prosecution for treason and libel by Baron Thanasius Ampelius. Had he not conveniently gone lost in the wood of Kar’eer again, Hieronymus would certainly have talked his head off.

On his flight from the baron’s ire, the hermit fell into a dubious dungeon. But that is another story and shall be told on another day – if Hieronymus ever reveals how he got out of this maze again.

The way through the dungeon may have led to an alternate universe, for Hieronymus clearly remembers that he got out of the forest by following Baron Dann from Castle Tegnoh to La Wunj, where he attended a great festival, apparently held annually to celebrate a victory over the ypurs. His memories of spotting Dame Karrin the Blue and Baron Thanasius Ampelius, and making an awkward attempt to apologize, are much less clear. Before he could hear a response, Hieronymus fell to the floor, very drunken, rolled under a table, started to snore and never spoke another word in Iric.

When he woke up again, all the Ops and Dars of Iric were gone, La Wunj lay mostly abandoned, none of the few citizens Hieronymus still found remembered any recent festivities, and when he asked for Baron Dann, glares and stares were the only answers the hermit got, for everybody knows that south-eastern Plort is and always was ruled by the fair Baroness Delta Juliette. Thus, Hieronymus joined the last trek that left La Wunj to the east, and since he became more invested in the Riding of Sittorese, he travelled on until he reached the Empire of Fanvik-Neht, where he built a secret hermitage which he hopes will once become a stronghold of goodriding.

How he got across the ocean and then back again, is still one of many mysteries, but while the Baronial Council assembles again, the archivist’s apprentice is back to his job of dusting off old scrolls in Arkive. Cetera censeo, even if some strange fate takes him to Borrd again, Hieronymus the hermit should not be by common non-objection the Commonwealth of Wechi’s delegate at the Baronial Council of the Union of Plort. See? There is an objection.

((I had so hoped for an opportunity to finally put one line into the IRC while having an excuse to ignore all further discussion. Alas, it was not meant to be.))

HG

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Say, isn't it time for Plort? by Desdendelle on 2016-06-18 22:27:00 UTC Reply

Or, specifically, the Baronial Council thread?

Provisional Proceedings of the 2016 Baronial Council by Hieronymus the hermit on 2016-06-25 17:27:00 UTC Reply

((Here is what I got so far:))

This Baronial Council was held from the twentieth of June until the twenty-fourth of June in the City of Borrd.

Attendees: ((so far))
Lady Iximaz (a baron of Plort)
Baroness Juliette
Baron Phobos
Baron Thanasius Ampelius
Baron Neshomeh was absent on a campaign against the Subjugator, but did send a message.
Baron Huinesoron was not present and his messengers were apparently not quite sure what they were meant to message.

Non-deciding attendees:
Filius Caeli, a knight from the City of Borrd in the Protectorate of Borrd
Freckles, messenger of Kwenaya
Hieronymus the hermit, a civilian from Wechi
Sandra, messenger of Kwenaya
Sir Hardric, a wandering knight
Sir Matthias Snow, a knight from Tumblar in the Riding of Sittorese
Ye Scape-Grace, a knight from Keep De'endee in the Protectorate of Borrd

Agenda:
The Matter of Sittorese – The Riders of Sittorese were invited to present their choice of civil government.

An invocation of the Edict of Bast – Reinstating Barony July in western Sittorese, eastern Wechi and eastern Borrd.

A proposal by Baron Phobos to cede the part of Barony Araeph West of the Hyparlink Route to him, and the part of Barony Cassie South of the Godreve Road to the Barons July, Juliette, and VixenMage to be divided up as they see fit.

A proposal by Baron Thanasius Ampelius, in reaction to Baron Phobos’s proposal, to cede the territory South of the Godreve road to him, because he feels an attraction to the Riding; but he did not say what he intends to do with his territory in Ozerbord.

Decisions:
No rider of Sittorese showed up to present the Riders choice of civil government. (Sir Matthias Snow spoke only in the discussion about the distribution of territories, in favor of barons who are actually present.) Sir Filius Caeli suggested having the Baronial Council rule the nation, like may be the custom in Borrd. ((Clarification required: Is the Council of Borrd (redlinked in Protectorate of Borrd) the same as the Baronial Council or an assembly of barons who actually hold territories in the Protectorate of Borrd?)) This suggestion was not supported by any of the barons. Although there may have been some mix up with the barons’ military duties, the resident Baroness Juliette actually spoke against council rule over the Riding. Since the 2015 Baronial Council already proclaimed that supplying the knights of Plort with grain is considered a military matter, no further decision was made. Beyond the resident barons’ military rights and obligations, the Riders of Sittorese are left to their own devices and the ancient Law of Goodriding.

((Since no further discussion occurred for three days, I really hope that this matter is closed. Taking the real life analogies seriously, the Baronial Council telling the Riders how to ride outside of military formations riding against the Marizu would imply that Writers who may not even have asked for Permission would be obligated to follow PPC-rules in writing non-PPC-related stories. I don’t believe that we want this. If ever a problem occurs that needs somebody actually governing the Riders of Sittorese, we can always pretend that the problem-to-be-solved somehow diminished the amount of grain delivered, and thus the barons stepped in to solve it.))

Since nobody attempted to negotiate the borders, no decision was required and Barony July now exists in the boundaries initially set up by the Edict of Bast.

Barony Phobos may now extend to the Hyparlink Route. The proposal was supported by Baron Neshomeh and not actually opposed by any other baron.

Since Barons July, Juliette, and VixenMage did not attempt to negotiate about the territory Baron Phobos proposed to cede to them, and not even Baron Phobos opposed to the Raven’s counter-proposal, Baron Thanasius Ampelius may now, by a vote of one to zero, hold territories in Ozerbord and in the Riding of Sittorese (if this is even possible and he did not change his mind).

((These are still open for corrections if the discussion continues.

HG))

((Quick correction)) by son_of_heaven176 on 2016-06-27 03:54:00 UTC Reply

Filius Caeli is a citizen, not a knight. ((I do not have Permission.))
((Looks good)) by Huinesoron on 2016-06-25 19:17:00 UTC Reply

((I'd add that Baron Kaitlyn was also present through her messengers, and sent a specific message - that she didn't object to Phobos taking the land west of the Hyparlink.))

((hS))

Now let the Baronial Council be assembled. by Warden of Otik on 2016-06-20 08:43:00 UTC Reply

And let their discussion light the darkness that afflicts our dear Union of Plort. Gather now, all you who seek to serve our four nations of Borrd, Wechi, Ozerbord, and the Riding; consider deeply the paths you would lead them down, and speak words only of wisdom. For all are welcome, be they Knight or Civilian, to join the debates and counsel their most wise Barons.

See now, Konti-Nyuum,
What wonders the dawn brings,
All the light touches
Is yours now to own,
For our fallen heroes,
Whom our hearts avenge still,
Took this sacred country
And made it their own

Rise, commoners and nobles!
Rise up against the speshul!
For only through union
Shall our hearts fly free!

((The Warden is not Baron Me; he's currently absent, though may show up without warning. As she says, anyone is welcome to join in the thread. Go nuts. ^_~

((There's two items of business I need to raise, which I'll do as sub-threads. I'll also add one for people to share their stories and request heraldry if they want it.))

((hS))

We should not begin this Council... by Sir Matthias Snow on 2016-06-20 14:12:00 UTC Reply

Without first congratulating Baroness Iximaz in her recent victory against the Elemm.

((Sorry, but what are you referring to?)) (nm) by son_of_heaven176 on 2016-06-21 05:46:00 UTC Reply

((Iximaz's mission in LMMM.)) (nm) by Hardric on 2016-06-21 06:10:00 UTC Reply

((Sorry, what's LMMM?)) by Cat-on-the-Keyboard on 2016-06-29 14:57:00 UTC Reply

((I've checked the wiki and Google, and I can't find anything matching that acronym, certainly not in Iximaz's recent missions.

No one is likely to see this, but if by any chance someone does, a reply would be appreciated.

--Key))

"Would that such luck be at t'side o' Barony Neshomeh" by Ye Scape-Grace on 2016-06-20 20:36:00 UTC Reply

An owd campaign be renewed of late, so hearsay an' heralds alike do tell. An owd failing. T'would be well done to wish yin nobles fair fortune for any battle with the Subjugator an' 'is vile band, aye, well indeed. A knight mayst wonder whither wand'rest those as represent 'em, savin' the presence o' Baron Phobos, whose interests are doubtless solely those as would support the doin's of 'is good lady wife.
I'd rather... by Lady Iximaz on 2016-06-20 15:29:00 UTC Reply

...we not discuss the events surrounding that particular campaign. But thank you.

The Matter of Sittorese by Warden of Otik on 2016-06-20 09:19:00 UTC Reply

Honoured barons and people of Plort:

At the previous Baronial Council, a new nation was created: the Riding of Sittorese, which would dedicate itself to feeding our noble knights in their quests against the Marizu. At that time, the choice of its manner of governance was postponed until a later date - this date.

Let those who dwell in the Riding speak of its character, and of the government of their choosing; let the barons debate; let the people have their say.

((So last year I pushed through the creation of 'the Writing of Stories' as a nation in its own right; it's since grown to encompass the old Republic of Iric. Per the map, I know DawnFire and Ekyl have castles there. Its barons are Cassie, Juliette, VixenMage, and - now - July. Its provisional capital is Godreve, and as I recall Sir Ekyl demanded to be its ruler. I think I have a note somewhere that says they've adopted the Black Arrowhead as a symbol - yes, here it is.

If anyone wants to live in the Riding, they can go ahead and come up with flags and the like.

hS))

That seems to be a delicate matter. by Sir Hardric on 2016-06-20 20:42:00 UTC Reply

I mean, the matter is that even if it will be a nation of its own, Sittorese could be seen in some ways as a nation existing for the Knights and Barons of Plort. Not the best way to formulate this, but this fact still holds some truth.

The civilians living here certainly have a say in the matter too, given the fact they live here, and didn't ask for the creation of this new nation interfering in their life, but at the end of the day the problem will touch mainly the ones doing the crusades, then the Knights and Barons. Even the ones not living the Riding will be affected by its action, and then will want to have a say in the affairs of this new state.

In fact, this 'new state' makes more think to a vast supply base for the crusades, and that seems to call for a governance firm enough to regulate which can be called the war effort. And so its future governance should take this in consideration.

Now, I'm not even settled firmly somewhere in Plort, so that remains the opinion of a hedge knight, a pretty way to say 'mix of vagabond and sellsword', but this country is supposed to supply the future crusades against Marizu, a matter which touches all Knights, so I thought it was important to talk here.

((Hope I'm not saying anything too stupid.))

Let us consider what has happened... by Filius Caeli on 2016-06-21 05:44:00 UTC Reply

As it may be remembered, Baron Huinesoron's original proposal was that the Riding be governed by the Baronial Council as a whole, given that its creation was due in part to the absence of Baron Cassie and the apparent inability of Baron Dann (as the Baron was known at the time) to police western Iric.

And let it not be forgotten that the Riding is supposed to be the breadbasket of all of Plort; its supplies are to sustain all the various knights of the realm in their eternal combat against the Marizu, not one sole baron.

So, as the Riding is for the support of all Plort, why not leave it in the care of the Council as a whole?

"But Filius," one may say, "rule by a council is highly inefficient. What about keeping order and maintaining its day-to-day affairs?"

To which I reply thus: First of all, the cities of Sittorese are more than capable of providing for their own security and internal order: Godreve and Tumblar still stand to this day. And outside the cities, all that the farmlands require would be forces to keep order from thieves, bandits, and other outlaws; little more is required or requested. In that case, let the Council not forget that within the borders of Sittorese is a baron that has not been absent. A baron that, given the requisite support from the others, would be more than capable of providing basic security. I speak, of course, of Baron VixenMage.

So here is my proposal in full: Let Sittorese remain under the rule of the Baronial Council, given its status as the breadbasket for all Plort. However, allow Baron VixenMage authority to police the territory, as well as serve as a first line of defense against any invasion until such time as the Baronial Council can raise sufficient forces.

What say you, esteemed barons, knights, and citizens of Plort?

--Filius Caeli, Wanderer of Weab, Seeker of Lore

The Law of Goodriding by Hieronymus the hermit on 2016-06-22 12:20:00 UTC Reply

Will this council please not confuse the issue of civil government with the matters of warfare, fending off invaders as well as taking the battle to the Marizu’s homelands.

Will this council please remember the history of western Iric that lead to the forming of this new nation, because waiting for a distant government to take action in local affairs was demonstrably far less efficient than the local militia just hanging the thief themselves.

Will this council please consider that selling as much corn as possible to the barons and their armies, while keeping enough for themselves so that they won’t starve and will be able to grow more corn next year, is in the peoples best interest, and that how to achieve this the peasant on the field probably knows better than the baron in the high castle or the archivist in the library.

I am still of the opinion that the Riders of Sittorese need no rulers and only one rule: Worship Kanun and Spelin and listen to your Beytahs, but do not slavishly follow their advice.

But I’m a resident of Wechi and have no say in the governance of this new nation, so I will say no more.

((The "distant government" were the "Ops" and "Dars" presumably residing in La Wunj^(*); civil government has never been the resident barons responsibility in Iric, nor is it in the Commonwealth of Wechi, and I don’t know the current state of Ozerbord. Having the Baronial Council govern the Riding would just be plagiarizing what’s done in the Protectorate of Borrd. To achieve more diversity, looking up what else had been proposed last year may be useful.

^(*)Note that this refers to the original claim that western Iric was underdeveloped, not to any actual Ops or Dars.

HG))
My dear Wanderer... by Baroness Juliette on 2016-06-21 06:24:00 UTC Reply

While I appreciate the honor you give to Baron VixenMage, and deserve the rebuke intended for me, your proposal seems a few months out of date. I have reclaimed my halls on the river Sozeri, and I cannot help but wonder if you think a single warden Baron would have been sufficient to overcome the vicious assault on Borrd by the forces of Toroll this spring.

Now is not a season for inaction, as your proposal seems to suggest, nor are the barons of Sittorese absent. We are well aware of Sittorese's responsibilities to this Union, and while I have concerns of where the lines have been drawn, Baron Huinesoron's proposals regarding the recreation of Barony July will also provide more reason to dissolve the council and return to direct and normal rule of Sittorese.

I must also question what role you see for Baroness July in your proposed continuation of the Council, given that hS has proposed giving her the watershed of the upper Meibot, one of the important regions of Sittorese.

I think your proposal is unnecessary - while the Council is an important structure, its control of Sittorese has become redundant and should cease. To claim otherwise is to accuse the sitting Barons and Baronesses of inability to rule. Although, I am sure, the Baron VixenMage would be willing to join me in assisting with the stability of the upper Meibot region while Flayme is rebuilt, at the very least.

And finally, despite the nature of tales told by certain storytellers, it is appropriate to refer to me, including at all times past, as my current self.

This office most respectfully protests. by Warden of Otik on 2016-06-21 11:08:00 UTC Reply

Though Baron Huinesoron has long been known as a scholar of the Constitution of Plort and the Edict of Bast, and has ofttimes acted as the instrument and mouthpiece of the Edict in the past, he has had neither influence over nor knowledge of the restoration of Barony July.

Nor are the calculations of the Edict proposals in the common sense. The boundaries of Barony July are set; if by their wisdom and mutual agreement the Barons of Plort see fit to alter those boundaries, they are free to do so, but they cannot change the Edict's first delineation.

((Though if people want to argue with the Warden they can. T'ain't nowt sacred but Kanon and Spelin, as it were. ~hS))

((Yeah, OOC question.)) by Desdendelle on 2016-06-20 09:33:00 UTC Reply

((Whatever happens if a Baron sees fit to remove himself to a different nation? Thematically-speaking, Baron Thanasius fits Sittorese more than he fits Ozerbord. Not to mention that he'd rather not have Baron Huinesoron as an overlord.))

((OOC Answer!)) by Baroness Juliette on 2016-06-21 05:45:00 UTC Reply

((Okay, in-voice, but not in character's best interest!))

The vast south-western highlands of Sittorese have long been underserved by their baroness, and while the new Barony July takes a corner of them, the vast plains from Koewright to the edge of the Sozeri watershed could use a more attentive hand. Of course, in my role as Baroness Juliette, I would protest strenuously - and doubly so if you attempted to claim one of the port cities east of the cliffs!

(Seriously, dear Baron hS, what were you thinking when you drew the lines for the new Barony July? The upper Meibot watershed makes a modicum of sense but I have no comprehension of why your proposed border wobbles across the Raeltyms with such abandon, or encompasses Fanvik.)

((Baron hS has nothing to do with it!)) by Huinesoron on 2016-06-21 07:28:00 UTC Reply

((What I was thinking is that July obviously needs her castle back - the Meibot area - but has stronger ties to the Board and Wiki than to writing. I'm actually working against his+Kaitlyn's best interests - I had half a mind to move Baron Me to Fanvik, and when Araeph folds, Kaitlyn would've had a strong claim on what're now July's lands in Borrd.))

((But the Edict of Bast pays no heed to any of that.))

((hS))

((Depends how he does it.)) by Huinesoron on 2016-06-20 10:28:00 UTC Reply

There's nothing in the Edict of Bast allowing for a baron to be moved without protest. So basically you'd have to either negotiate with the reigning baron of the area, provoke a popular revolution in your favour, or take it by force. How you roleplay that is up to you. ^_~ I don't know that Delta Juliette, VixenMage, Cassie, or even July are going to be involved in the thread, so you can probably present them with a fait accomplit coup.

(I will remind you that Tomash is Protector of Ozerbord these days; Baron hS isn't, and has no intention of claiming any sort of rule outside his own castle.)

hS

The Edict of Bast has been invoked. by Warden of Otik on 2016-06-20 09:11:00 UTC Reply

No Baronies lie fallow this day, for Barons Araeph and Cassie have been seen in the isle since the last Council was held, but one must be created anew. For Baron July has grasped once more her powers of rulership, and by the creation of a knight by the ancient code has reclaimed her powers and her Barony.

Therefore the Edict of Bast has been consulted, and the initial boundaries of her dominion have been set forth:

The words of the Edict are inviolable; all these lands now fall under the rule of Baron July. Should any wish to claim them anew, they must debate with the Baron and reach mutually-agreeable terms.

The mines of Spyration and the castle Fanvik now lie within Barony July. The towns of Godreve, Goch't, and Eksoeva lie upon its borders; she or her representatives should discuss their disposition with the representatives of Barony Cassie. Should she consider the water rights of the upper Karaktar essential to her new lands, she ought also to discuss them with Baron Kaitlyn.

((Okay, so:

-Cassie posted on June 25th; Araeph posted in July. The Edict removes them if they haven't been seen for a year before a council, so they just squeak in.

-July granted Permission without objection, so is a confirmed active Permission Giver, so gets a barony. As ever, the borders are slapped down according to arcane formulae without discussion; they can certainly be changed from this point on.

-Wechi is no longer entirely in Barony Neshomeh!

I think that's everything I needed to comment.

hS))

Re: The Edict of Bast has been invoked. by Baron Phobos on 2016-06-20 16:22:00 UTC Reply

We are much pleased to welcome the Baron July back to the Council. We had heard that she was lost in the Kareer Forest, so it is good that she found her way out again.

On the matter of Barons Araeph and Cassie, we object to their continued absentee-stewardship. A Barony is a sacred trust and responsibility; not a summer home. I move that, though we cannot do away with them completely, we cede portions of Barony Araeph, including all lands West of the Hyparlink Route to myself. Similarly, portions of Barony Cassie South of the Godreve Road should go to the Barons July, Juliette, and VixenMage to be divided up as they see fit.

-Baron Phobos

If I might add my own thoughts? by Baron PC on 2016-06-25 22:09:00 UTC Reply

First off, allow us to humbly apologize for my lateness. The roads leading to Borrd have been particularly hellish this year. Something in the weather, perhaps, that clouds peoples' minds. Not to mention wandering herds of Green Ads.

But never mind that. We must address the matter at hand. While we do agree with Baron Phobos on the responsibilities of stewardship, we found his proposal to be… inequitable. One baron nearly doubles his stead, while three barons must be satisfied with dividing up a comparatively small portion of land? The very notion is laughable.

However, since the barons involved have not spoken out or are not present, that rather muddies the potentiality for claims and counterclaims. Baron Thanasius Ampelius has asked for the land (or someone pretending to be him has), but we can hardly see how any baron can properly govern with several other polities in the way.

That being said, we would support the border restructuring plan put forward by Baron Phobos—with one alteration. The land currently under discussion that lies within the Barony of Araeph should be divided between Barons Phobos and July as they see fit.

Better the opportunity for fairness than not.

—Baron PC, the Poor Cynick
Ludum bonum, non revertens

((Please excuse my Google Latin motto. If you can figure it out, more power to you. Also, Baron PC can be a little bit of a gadfly.))

May the Keeper of the Records ask for clarification? by Hieronymus the hermit on 2016-06-26 19:21:00 UTC Reply

Considering that Baron July is apparently not present and may not show up before this Council ends, is your proposal meant to say that Baron Araeph should keep all of her territory until Baron Phobos and Baron July come to an agreement about their border? Or should Baron Phobos be allowed to take what has not been claimed by Baron July when this council ends?

The former. by Baron PC on 2016-06-27 03:56:00 UTC Reply

That is to say, the land should remain undivided until Barons Phobos and July come to an agreement.

I do beg your pardon. by Lady Iximaz on 2016-06-26 03:04:00 UTC Reply

But I hardly think my protest against Baron Phobos doubling the size of his lands counts as not speaking out.

May the Keeper of the Records ask for clarification? by Hieronymus the hermit on 2016-06-26 19:24:00 UTC Reply

Since you apparently supported Sir Filius Caeli’s suggestion, but Baron Neshomeh and Baron Kaitlyn do not intend to expand their territories, the question asked to Baron PC also applies to you.
We did say "the barons involved." by PoorCynic on 2016-06-26 06:14:00 UTC Reply

By which we meant those barons with lands bordering those territories in question. But we do apologize for not acknowledging your contribution, my lady. The journey was long and arduous, and sometimes things slip our attention.

But are we not all involved when... by Lady Iximaz on 2016-06-26 16:40:00 UTC Reply

... it comes to these decisions? This was a council last I checked.

Nevertheless, I do apologize for jumping to conclusions, and thank you for your apology as well.

—Lady Iximaz

The proposal of Baron Phobos, mapped. by Warden of Otik on 2016-06-20 20:11:00 UTC Reply

Barony Kaitlyn also borders the region proposed to be ceded to Barony Phobos. Until the restoration of Barony July, Barony Neshomeh also shared a border with Barony Cassie, in regions now given to Barony July.

((Since I assume not everyone has the map memorised. The Warden is strictly neutral; she's merely making sure the information is available. hS))
I agree with Baron Phobos. by Lady Iximaz on 2016-06-20 19:43:00 UTC Reply

Barons Araeph and Cassie have not been present often enough for them to keep proper watch over their holdings.

However, I do think that we should discuss the dividing of their lands, should this action be taken, more thoroughly. Granting him the lands to the west of the Hyparlink Route would nearly double his own barony.

—Lady Iximaz

Good Lady, by Phobos on 2016-06-21 17:45:00 UTC Reply

We meant no offense with our initial proposal. We merely intended to show the most straightforward options. There really are few other options in the area of Barony Araeph. We would gladly divide the area with the Baron Neshomeh, though we can only imagine that would illicit only slightly less outcry than our original proposal. We could include Baron July, but that would necessitate making her Barony into a snake, winding its way from sea to sea across the island. That would be incredibly unwieldy. Leaving it to Baron Kaitlyn would be little better than leaving it in Baron Araeph's hands.

What would you propose we do in this situation?

-Baron Phobos

In that case by Filius Caeli on 2016-06-21 18:28:00 UTC Reply

why not make the same suggestion for these lands that you did with the portions of Barony Cassie, namely, cede those lands to the neighboring barons for them to divide as they see fit? In this case, I therefore propose that the portions of Barony Araeph in consideration be ceded to milord, Baron Neshomeh, Baron Kaitlyn, and Baron July to divide as we see fit.

And no, milord, my inclusion of Baron Kaitlyn was not a slip of the tongue. Pardon my forwardness, but milord is amiss in comparing Baron Kaitlyn with the long-absent Baron Araeph. Though Baron Kaitlyn is admittedly not in residence in her barony, she is not absent from Plort--unless I am mistaken, one needs only go to Castle Kwenaya to find her. And given that I hear of no news of unrest in her lands, she must have shown capability in administrating her barony thus far.

Um, in point of fact... by Freckles, messenger of Kwenaya on 2016-06-21 18:38:00 UTC Reply

... it's been a while since Milady has visited the Crown of Ozerbord.

[A second messenger in the livery of Huinesoron whispers urgently in Freckles' ear]

Um, sorry, I guess we don't call it that any more. Um. But Milord and Milady have both been gone for quite a while now.

I know she doesn't have a castle as such, but I think Bodldops Hospital serves her as one, really; she's always there, in her office. I think she thinks of all the wounded and weary of Plort as her charge, not just her baro-

[More urgent whispering]

Um, forget that last bit. Sorry, my ladies, my lords, I don't mean to take up your time. Sorry.

((My guess is that, unless they're injured, the knights of Plort don't run into Kaitlyn because they expect her to be in Duchess Nathonea's old palace in Vaekew - which is, admittedly, completely empty. ~hS))
It would seem that sir Filius Caeli beat me to it. (nm) by Iximaz on 2016-06-21 18:38:00 UTC Reply

Very well. by Baron Phobos on 2016-06-21 20:02:00 UTC Reply

We have laid out our plan for the region. We will, however, accept further discussion and alterations of the proposal from the Barons July and Neshomeh, being that both have lands bordering on the region. We will not accept any alterations from Baron Kaitlyn, or her representatives, for the reasons we have already stated.

-Baron Phobos

A message arrives. by Baron Neshomeh on 2016-06-21 21:07:00 UTC Reply

[A scroll of parchment is presented; much battered with travel, it bears a message indisputably in Baron Neshomeh's hand, but clearly written in a great hurry.]

My dear barons, knights, and citizens of Plort,

We regret our absence from this year's council, but our errand could not wait. The Subjugator has long evaded our spies, and was even thought to have fled Weab entirely at times, but at last we have cornered it in Odd-Ault Fanvik, that black and tangled mire in the secret heart of Fanvik-Neht, and we must needs pursue it with all our strength lest it escape us again. With the Supernumeraricon and Ilraen eager and crackling with magic in our hands, and the Tungsten Monk with Suicide and Diocletian at our side, we feel certain of victory.

That is our news; and now to business.

We happily give back that portion of Wechi east of the Raeltyms to our dear friend Baron July, and rejoice at her return. We hope she finds all in good order.

Our husband Baron Phobos has written to us urgently requesting support for his proposal of ceding certain portions of Baron Araeph's lands to himself. We of course agree, and we thank him for his continued backing of our campaign. We give no thought at all to expanding our own borders beyond Wechi; we are well content with what we have. May the council see it so.

~Baron Neshomeh

(( Odd-Ault Fanvik = Adult-FanFiction.org. I imagine it as a swamp full of dark, oppressive trees and hanging vines and whatnot. Possibly flame spurts, lightning sands, and ROUSes, too. One does not venture there lightly [and certainly not if one is under the age of eighteen]. Its location is somewhere within Fanvik-Neht. It may be difficult to find unless you know what you're looking for; but on the other hand, the unwary may find themselves ensnared in it by mistake, and then woe be unto them.

Baron Neshomeh probably doesn't understand the full extent of what Baron Phobos is up to. IIRC, it's been established before that she has a bit of a blind spot to his avaricious tendencies. Anyway, he promised his full support of her campaign if she spoke in favor of his proposal, and more land surely equals more support. Seems like a perfectly reasonable idea! ))
Oh, you will not accept? by Sandra, messenger of Kwenaya on 2016-06-21 20:20:00 UTC Reply

I don't recall anyone mentioning to Kwenaya that Baron Phobos had been elected ruler of Borrd; perhaps the message got lost in the vast empty lands you already claim? If you think Kwenaya and Vaekew will stand for-

[Freckles runs up and whispers urgently in her ear]

No, Freckles, you're wrong, she'd want us to-

[More whispering]

... I shall have to consult with Milady. Freckles, make sure His Lordship doesn't do anything irreversible.

((It's fun to have someone to RP at this; thank Kanun for servants! ~hS))

[The messenger returns] by Sandra, messenger of Kwenaya on 2016-06-23 09:38:00 UTC Reply

Ugh.

Milady Kaitlyn does not object to any redistribution of the lands north of the Karaktar. However, and I will quote her directly here: "If Baron Phobos' followers set so much as a toe across my river, they will remember why the Knights Who Go ^_^ were so justly feared."

Ugh. If I could find Milord Huinesoron, you can be sure he'd have something to say about this. Freckles, are you sure you don't know where...?

((Hopefully Baron Me will show up next year to start slicing chunks off that gigantic Barony Phobos...))

We have no interest in your Lady's lands. by Baron Phobos on 2016-06-23 15:00:00 UTC Reply

After all, only our toe would fit on her side of the river.

As to the Baron Huinesoron, please let this Council know when you've located him. We would very much like to know how fare his lands. The last we had heard, they were no longer his, at all. Perhaps it is Ser Tomash whose advice we should be seeking?

-Baron Phobos

((I hope either Baron Huinesoron or someone else comes along to knock this guy down a peg. His arrogance grows with every acre he grabs.))

A moment, Baron Phobos. by Lady Iximaz on 2016-06-23 16:27:00 UTC Reply

I can see only too well where this is going and I'm putting a stop to it now. Baron Huinesoron, though he may be absent, has still managed to keep his land safe and secure. Your barony is already large enough as it is—is the fact that your has now doubled in size not enough to sate you? I can see you so hungrily eyeing the lands of Barony Huinesoron and I will say this now: I beg of you to stop before it gets out of control. As a wise teacher from Autor once said, "Power is no blessing in itself, except when it is used to protect the innocent." Forgive me for saying so, but I doubt this is what you had in mind when you didn't so much request but as demand such a large portion of land.

You can be assured that I shall write to your wife the moment this council is over, for I am certain if she knew what ambitions you have, she would not have supported you. It is not right that any one baron should amass such a large amount of power.

—Lady Iximaz

((Sorry for not participating much; Lady Ix is still nervous about her position and uncertain as to how much weight her voice holds, especially after protesting Phobos' power grab and getting overruled by the Warden.))

You wound us, Lady Iximaz by Baron Phobos on 2016-06-23 17:47:00 UTC Reply

We have no designs on the former holdings of Baron Huinesoron. Quite the opposite. We are beginning to wonder if it is not appropriate to offer the Baron's vacant seat at this Council to the actual Protector of Ozerbord.

As for what the doubling of our Barony, we are surprised at the concern. We took your wise suggestion that we work with our peers who border the area in question. We have, so far, heard nothing beyond cede control to Baron Phobos. There seems to be no doubt that this action must be taken and that we are best equipped to protect these areas.

We do not know what ambitions you think we have but, we assure you, we have only the good of the citizens in our heart. Please, keep that in mind when you write our wife. She will be glad to hear from you.

-Baron Phobos

((Totally trustworthy...totally.))

I'd to point out... by Baron Thanasius Ampelius on 2016-06-23 23:39:00 UTC Reply

That this is the Baronial Council, not the "Rulers-of-Nations Council". Furthermore, Lord Protector Tomash is not particularly present here, either.

Signed,
Thanasius Ampelius
O! Vile monster! by Freckles, messenger of Kwenaya on 2016-06-23 18:25:00 UTC Reply

Milord Baron's seat is no more vacant than... than your wife's is! She has not even an appointed messenger to speak for her! Ought we to cede her barony to the Hermit, and-

[Sandra grabs Freckles by the arm and drags her unceremoniously out of the council hall]

ELSEWHERE

The library of Lhyst was dark, as it usually was - too much light could damage the delicate manuscripts. In one corner, a hooded figure sat at a desk, poring over an ancient scroll.

"'... empower You as leader of the knights of Your Demesne...'" the reader murmured, and, "'... protect and defend this Sacred Land from all threats, both...'."

The figure looked up, his hood falling back to reveal the long hair of Baron Huinesoron. "'Both those that strike from afar, and those that creep from within'," he recited. "Hmm."

He reached across the desk and pulled over a hastily-scribbled note in his wife's hand. With one finger, he tapped a line of script. "Hmm indeed."

((He's reading the original text of the Edict of Bast. It might be well to remember the history eastern Plort...))
What an inspiring declaration, my lord. by Sir Hardric on 2016-06-23 18:15:00 UTC Reply

Clearly it isn't a naked usurpation of every scrap of power you could get your hands on, and clearly you aren't displaying an avidity for lands mirroring Marizu's depredations. Clearly you're a hero, worthy of the same fame than the one populars pieces in this land give to Baron Huinesoron.

We are also most perplex before the fact you're leaving your wife, an esteemed Baron of this land, facing the Subjugator alone, when the reputation of the monster is well-known. I thought a Baron, and a husband, would mind her well-being more than lands.

((Sorry for the vitriol, but 'Baron' Phobos needs modesty. No kidding, even Ramsay Snow is more subtle than that.))

*Watches Freckles be removed from the hall* by Baron Phobos on 2016-06-23 19:03:00 UTC Reply

Clearly, Sir Hardric, you have trained in the arts of the Sar Chasms. We will forgive your comparing us to the Marizu, but one thing will not stand.

I am leaving my wife to face nothing alone. I have made my offerings at the Temples of Kanun and Spelin. I have bent my skills in Beytah to aid in her campaign, though her own powers in that art far outweigh my own. The smiths at Cokrit work tirelessly to outfit her armies.

Make no mistake, when Baron Neshomeh meets the Subjugator on the fields of Air'ihpotre, the Dice and Daggers will be at her right hand.

-Baron Phobos

((Baron Phobos needs many things. A swift kick foremost among them.

Also...less subtle than Ramsey Snow? Ouch.))

"Soft prayer and Beytah witchcraft be thy aids?" by Ye Scape-Grace on 2016-06-24 09:48:00 UTC Reply

What limp and hornèd husband mayst thou be. Thy lady rides to battle, chambermaids and servants at her side, not soldiery? Fine are the smiths at Cokrit, I be told, and fine, vainglorious words like teeth do sit within the maw of machinating old serpents, whose poisons burn who mayst be bit? I prithee, noble Sir, to take more care of memories of lovers in the field, for should she fail, it is your task to bear thy fine sword and thy diced and daggered shield to arms against a most ignoble foe. But thou has prayed; the outcome now we know.

(You may take it as read that Ye Scape-Grace has been quietly fuming on the sidelines for a while now.)

Firstly... by Sir Hardric. on 2016-06-24 22:10:00 UTC Reply

I won't be the one to deny the importance of both Beytah and Cokrit for a successful crusade. I've got enough failed pilgrimages in my past to remember this, and Lady's Iximaz's example show how important a good preparation is for a crusade.

However, if you can find the time to come here to snatch every little scrap of land in this country, then surely you have the time for helping your wife in a more active way. The Subjugator already crossed her past once, and she didn't emerge of the encounter unscathed, if stories in Tivit are to be believed. How can you be here, without worries, when she's undertaking such a task?

((I guess Mace Tyrell would be better though. He is cupid enough, and not subtle too. More seriously, will Eamon and Barid join this party? I think it would make for an interesting thing if our paladin saw the horror with his on eyes.))

((The Warden overruled what?)) by Huinesoron on 2016-06-23 16:50:00 UTC Reply

((She wasn't overruling anything - if anything, she was pointing out what Lady Iximaz is, that that's a huge chunk of land Phobos is asking for.))

((And the only reason she's doing that is because I've got twitchy, want-to-participate fingers...))

((hS))

((PS: The way you phrased that, 'it is not right that any one baron should amass such a large amount of power', I'm getting alarming flashbacks to Pern. If this goes through, I'm going to start calling Phobos 'Lord of Three Baronies'... he did eat Laburnum's back in the day, too, y'know...!))

((....hang on, I derped.)) by Iximaz on 2016-06-23 17:42:00 UTC Reply

((I read the map as "This is Phobos' land now", not "this is what it would look like if he got it". My bad entirely.

And just so long as he doesn't pull a Fax on us, I think we'll be okay. :P))

((I just reread 'Masterharper'.)) by Huinesoron on 2016-06-23 20:43:00 UTC Reply

((I was utterly shocked by how easily Fax pulled off his stunt, and by the repeated exclamations of 'this has never happened before/we have no way of dealing with this!'. Uh, really? In two and a half thousand Turns?))

((If it's more than just Nesh and me who've read Pern, I think I'll post my crackpot theory about that one of these days...))

((hS))

A quote from an unpopular fic around these parts: by Scapegrace on 2016-06-24 09:32:00 UTC Reply

"A reasonably competent hedge fund manager could buy up the entirety of magical Britain in a week. Harry jotted the idea down, in case he ever needed money or had a week free."
((I think my reference is evidence enough I've read it. :P)) by Iximaz on 2016-06-23 23:53:00 UTC Reply

((But yeah, apparently Pern people are really nice when it comes to not taking over and stuff? ¯_(ツ)_/¯ I mean, I've read a good chunk of the books and I don't remember anything like Fax's conquest happening in any of the others.))
(Hold on now..) by JulyFlame on 2016-06-23 20:53:00 UTC Reply

(I've read it as well.

I'm due for a reread if I can stomach it, but I read all of Perm way back in high school.

-July)
((So I should read this and figure out how to do the same?)) (nm by Phobos on 2016-06-23 20:47:00 UTC Reply

((correction)) by Filius Caeli on 2016-06-21 18:29:00 UTC Reply

(Obviously, in the end of the first paragraph, it should read "as they (i.e., the barons) see fit, not "as we see fit".

Leave it to me. by Clearly Thanasius Ampelius on 2016-06-21 18:25:00 UTC Reply

Gimme.

I do apologise for my body double's actions. by Thanasius Ampelius on 2016-06-21 18:28:00 UTC Reply

I assure you, I would not demand this land, which is far from my home.
But... there has been an awakening. Can you feel it? I do feel an attraction to the Riding that was not there before. I like my current home, but I am restless. This bothers me greatly.
Signed,
Baron Thanasius Ampelius

I second that action. by Sir Matthias Snow on 2016-06-20 17:34:00 UTC Reply

It was by mere stroke of luck that Sir Ekyl was present at the time news of Baroness Juliette reached Tumblar a few months ago. The volatile nature of the area is sure to lead to more violent "celebrations," ones I do not wish to face without an active Baron in the region.

Non-Council Plort subthread. by Huinesoron on 2016-06-20 08:41:00 UTC Reply

Tragedy! Crisis! Other exclamations of dismay! Once again, many of the Citizens and Knights of the Union of Plort have not received their customary honours. Their names are not listed in Baron Huinesoron’s Cyclopaedia; their coats of arms go unblazoned; their histories are unknown to even those closest to them. Clearly, this cannot go on.

Or, in other words:

Welcome back to Konti-Nyuum.

The Protectorate of Plort, Konti-Nyuum, is not a PPC AU. Rather, it’s a PPC Community AU - an answer to a question that was never asked:

What if the PPC Community was a medieval nation?

So here we are. The island of Konti-Nyuum lies to the north of the great continent of Weab. On this cliff-walled rock the noble knights Jay and Acacia made their home, building the Protectorate of Plort, and those who came after them have carried the Protectorate through its trials and troubles to the current Union of Plort. The Knights of Plort sally ever forth against the hosts of the Marizu, seeking to defend the beleaguered nations of the Scholars’ Empire from their scourge.

Each and every member of the PPC Community is also a resident of Plort. You can find the autobiographies of everyone who's done this before in the Cyclopaedia (mine is here, for example). If you haven't already written your history, why not join in and give one? There's a guide on doing so on the Cyclopaedia, and a glossary outlining most of the websites and fandoms in the setting.

For entertainment value, please post your bios here on the Board; if you want to cross-post them to the Cyclopaedia, go ahead, but I'm happy to sort that out for you. A couple of notes:

-Make sure to choose which of the four nations of the Union you live in, and indeed where in it; there’s nothing wrong with adding small towns and villages wherever you please, or you can live in the cities. Up to you!

-Everyone can have their own pair of heraldic devices, according to Plort’s two systems as described here. If you can describe your device/s, either formally as described there or just vaguely, I’ll (try to) make it for you. If you want to make a device for a Marizu, that's also great - they're heaps of fun to work with. ^_^

Nor is this thread limited to bios and heraldry. Anything goes! There will be a Baronial Council going on, which is open for in-character comments by all and sundry; world-building, RP-subthreads, songwriting... anything goes. Basically, use your imaginations - you're good at that!

hS Huinesoron, by the grace of Kanun Baron and Knight of Plort, Custodian of Fanvik-Whirl, Marshal of the Order of Udisc, Scourge of the Marizu, Friend of Medellurth, &c &c &c

The Third(?) Telling by Baron Thansius Ampelius on 2016-06-27 15:10:00 UTC Reply

It has been eight months and two weeks less one day since his last trip to Ydyff, and Thanasius Ampelius, Baron of Plort and lord of the Monastery of Spectacle, found himself increasingly restless. His trip to the Academian city of Is-really Lo wasn’t productive, to say the least; he shuddered at the thought. What’s more, since his return he seemed to do a lot of nothing.

His sorties against the Marizu were few and far between, none of them worthy of song; true, he defended the small town of Gett from a horde of raucous spirits, but it seemed that aside from him nobody in Plort knew about that town anyway.

He threw the blue-backed cards he was holding down on the table with an annoyed snort.

“The game is not to your liking?” his body-double asked, putting his cards down as well. Instead he picked up one of the small crystals used to indicate mana in that game and held it against the light; it sparkled.

“That is not the problem,” the monk said, staring across the room at nothing in particular. “‘Tis a good enough game. No, I believe the problem lies in me.”

“That is rather morose, even for you, milord.” Death Dendle put the crystal down and leaned on the table. “Revu for your thoughts?”

Thanasius shrugged. “I would not know. My sojourns in the woods of Kar-eer are few and far between, and sometimes I do not even place much hope by my planned trip to Academia. I am not satisfied. Restless, even. And it bothers me.”

“Friends,” Death Dendle declared.

“Beg pardon?”

“You should go and meet your friends. You have barely left this room ever since you’ve arrived at Borrd.” The body-double waved his hand around. “Go outside.”

“You are going to pester me until I will, are you not?”

“Yes.”

“Fine.” Without further ado, the Baron got up, adjusted his hood and left the room.

((Thanks to Matt Cipher for betaing.))
The Saga, Part Three by Dame eatpraylove on 2016-06-25 00:59:00 UTC Reply

In which eatpraylove has been very busy.

Dame eatpraylove confronted the demon Marizu calling herself the Falcon Queen at the end of June, in the first year since her arrival. The Falcon Queen claimed to be descended from angels and gods of death as well as demons; perhaps it is fitting that she went from slaying a god impersonator to slaying a descendant of supernatural beings.

This particular Marizu also had a hired bodyguard with superhuman martial prowess. During the confrontation, he knocked one of the Blades out of the air and into a nearby rock, which chipped it. Miguel showed remarkable initiative, not only convincing a stray cat to distract the bodyguard, but picking up the chipped blade, teleporting to the barbarian, and stabbing her in the heart with it. The Falcon Queen had accidentally injured herself some time ago, so perhaps it wasn't a true victory, but eatpraylove claimed the reward for her anyway.

Alas, for much of the year, eatpraylove was lost in or mired in paperwork from the Federation of Academia, and could only track down Marizu a bit at a time. But whenever she had a chance, she sought out her next target.

In November, weeks before the anniversary of her first quest, she confronted Wendi, a Pokhemman Marizu with the strength of a young bear and the intelligence of a fish. eatpraylove initially believed the Marizu girl to be a troll, so great were Wendi's offenses. She turned out to be human, but eatpraylove channeled the power of the sun through Chris (an old Pokhemman spell) and smote the barbarian with it regardless.

Ten days after slaying Wendi, she sent out a general call for assistance: "I have set my eyes on a Marizu in Lotor, and while I know the works of the Great Professor, I am not his champion. Any who can assist me in deciding the barbarian's ultimate fate are welcome. Meet me at Castle Godreve. Payment to be discussed." Cipher the Merchant, a relatively new arrival to Plort, met her there bearing a grey spellbook and a longbow.

Dame eatpraylove brought only Chris and her loyal mare, Ami, on this quest, as five weapons and a fairy seemed a bit much for one Marizu. Unlike the Marizu she had read about so long ago, her current target respected the heroes of Medellurth even as she had a relationship (of sorts) with the legendary archer.

Cipher was mysteriously absent for weeks at a time, however, and eatpraylove still struggled to manage her affairs in the Federation. The two could not complete their quest to slay Evelyn until the following April. It was the second year since her arrival in Plort. During her absence (and with her permission), Skaer'morys the Silver had borrowed the Blades of Violet Roses for use against another Kidd Icarrios ((spellcheck)) Marizu.

When eatpraylove and Cipher returned to her manor house, she paid him with the barbarian girl's sword and a young black cat she had rescued from the Falcon Queen's camp after the latter's death. Cipher had specifically requested the only female cat in the group as a gift in celebration of his then-pending pilgrimage, and now that he had completed it and they had met again, eatpraylove saw no better time to pay her debt.

To her great surprise, Miguel appeared soon after Cipher had left, carrying the Blades of Violet Roses. "Oh...welcome home, my lady," he said. "Forgive me for leaving the house without you, but a Marizu bulletin arrived soon after your departure that caught my eye. Do you remember that history of Rockbird Lake athletics you showed me?"

"You enjoyed the passages on the Shark and the Dolphin's rivalry almost as much as I did," she said, making her way to Ami's stable. "Are you telling me they found one of those barbarians there, too?"

Miguel nodded. "The bulletin said she claimed to be a childhood friend of the Dolphin, so I set off with the Blades to correct her. But...she wasn't like I'd imagined a Marizu would be at all. She didn't focus on herself above her teammates, she wasn't stunningly beautiful, and she seemed to have legitimate training. She even apologized after I read her my list of grievances!"

eatpraylove almost tripped over her own feet (which would have hurt, given her armor). "You jest. A Marizu apologized?"

"I swear by Kanun," said Miguel. "Looking at her, I felt the way you must have felt when you found me and my mother in Natasha's tent. I thought, Here is someone who may have committed some crimes, but deserves a second chance at life. Fairies can't kill innocent creatures, so I cast a memory spell. She no longer knows the Dolphin and his team by anything other than reputation, and she lives with her mother now."

By this point, they were inside the stable already. eatpraylove finished hanging up Ami's tack and held out a hand for Miguel to land on. "I didn't realize kindness was one of your many talents. You've done well today, and I forgive your error. Now, would you please bring me Ami's brush and hoof pick?"

eatpraylove is currently getting the records of her most recent quests in order and searching for a way into the Kar'eer Forest. "Many of the paths seem open from a distance, but every time I try to take one, the trees bunch up and prevent me from going any deeper," she writes in her diary. "This is getting ridiculous, and frankly, I will not lose an endurance contest to a forest."

In addition, she has been teaching herself the magical arts of Beytah and Arpy ever since her first quest, with general success. She has received words of encouragement from other knights she knows, and a few stern words on using Beytah spells where they do not belong from Lady Iximaz. Her first attempts at Arpy were more mixed, and so she reserves those spells for festivals. She is willing to treat anyone who asks with her Beytah magic, but her skills do not extend to anything more severe than broken bones.
2015 Baronial Council by Hieronymus the hermit on 2016-06-22 15:42:00 UTC Reply

Since nobody bothered to archive this yet, it obviously became the archivist’s apprentice’s duty.

This Baronial Council was held from the fourth of June until the eight of June in the city of Borrd.

Attendees:
Baron Cassie
Baron Huinesoron
Lady Iximaz (a baron of Plort)
Baron Juliette the Fourth (formerly known as Dann)
Baron PC
Baron Phobos
Baron Thanasius Ampelius
Baron Neshomeh did not travel to Borrd, but she signed the Missive from Wechi presented by the archivist’s apprentice.

Non-deciding attendees:
Alleb the Odd Civilian
Dame eatpralove
Dark Civilian Aakmal
Hieronymus the hermit (and archivist's apprentice)
Knight Eshakhar
Knight Jumper
Sir Ekyl
Ye Scape-Grace

Agenda:
The Fall of Ofum – Baron Huinesoron proposing to build two new military centers, Los Taelis in southern Wechi and Ba-Korp in southern Ozerbord, and all infrastructure necessary for allowing the knights to sail into the war against the Marizu from Mei’n Payj and to fly into the war against the Marizu from Skypcht.

The Eastern Dilemma – Baron Huinesoron proposing to create a fifth nation, the Riding of Sittorese, in the underdeveloped western part of Iric.

A proposal by Lady Iximaz to give Critta-Kalthin status as a city.

A proposal by the resident baron to hold the festival celebrating victory over the ypurs at La Wunj.

Decisions:
Since none of the barons opposed, Ba-Korp has been founded in southern Ozerbord, on the border between Baronies Huinesoron and Thanasius Ampelius. By not saying anything, Baron Thanasius Ampelius has apparently agreed to expand the skyship port of Skypcht and increase the production of skyships as he sees fit.

Los Taelis has been founded near the Turaipod Heights. Although the absent Baron Neshomeh didn’t agree to anything, this proposal was supported by Dame eatpraylove, who is considered a resident of Wechi, and thus, by an application of Wechi’s common rule of non-objection, the Commonwealth of Wechi accepted responsibility for building and maintaining these military facilities.

The Riding of Sittorese has been founded. The Riders of Sittorese are permitted to choose their own form of civil government, but supplying the knights of Plort with grain (the Riding’s main purpose) is considered a military matter and the Riding is not allowed to self-govern itself out of this. This decision has been opposed by Baron Phobos. It has been supported by Baron Huinesoron, Lady Iximaz and in principle, before the last details were fixed, by Baron Juliette, Baron PC and, per signing the Missive from Wechi, by Baron Neshomeh.

Since none of the barons opposed, Critta-Kalthin has been upgraded to city status.

As far as this chronicler is aware, the Ypur Festival has not happened anywhere.

((I’m afraid I don’t hit the right Plort tone here, but it’s the best I can do. If it’s okay, I will put it on the redlink in the Plort wiki (which will force me to create a page for the Missive from Wechi to avoid a new redlink).

HG))

The records are closed. by Hieronymus the hermit on 2016-06-25 17:02:00 UTC Reply

Since nobody complained that the chronicler got it all wrong, copies of the Proceedings of the 2015 Baronial Council have been sent to all libraries of Plort for easy access.

((I guess that the long version, containing every word of every speech, is kept in the one library that is the equivalent of the Board Archives.

HG))
Master Hermit, I must object! by Alleb the Odd Knight on 2016-06-24 22:35:00 UTC Reply

While 'tis true I began the last Council as but a humble civilian, I was granted knighthood by the good Baron Thanasius Ampelius, to much fanfare and applause. I would ask that you give me what is my due, else offend my honor as a Knight of Plort.

((In reality, I'm not the least bit offended. ^_^ Plort!Alleb is a weirdo, hence the name. And I wanted to jump in somewhere--I can't seem to get my head around Plort politics.

-Alleb))

((Hmm.)) by Iximaz on 2016-06-25 00:24:00 UTC Reply

((I might have to set up a Generic Plort Festival so everyone can RP and have some fun in the Plort world, just interacting with each other in a non-political setting.

I'll think about it for a few days and plug something on the Other Board.))
In no way did I intend to offend you, good Knight by Hieronymus the hermit on 2016-06-25 00:05:00 UTC Reply

It just seemed appropriate to list the title you used throughout the discussions about the barons’ proposals. But when this record is filed into the libraries of Plort, your name will be linked, through Wechi-ah’s magic, to the Tale of Alleb, so that everybody can see that you are indeed a knight now.

((I didn’t reread other parts of last year’s Plort thread, and thus didn’t notice that you also commented as the Odd Knight. But even if I had remembered, the list of attendees would have been the same. Although your knighting happened during the council, it was not mentioned at the council, and in all notes taken about your speeches you are still the Odd Civilian. There is no reason to assume that the chronicler is aware of what happened outside of the assembly.)

HG))

I thank you. by Alleb the Odd Knight on 2016-06-25 00:12:00 UTC Reply

Perhaps my words were over-harsh; please accept my apology. Mayhap we can be friends despite my outburst.

((Ah, good point. I hadn't thought about how it wasn't in the main thread.

-Alleb))

This office thanks the Hermit for his dedication. (nm) by Warden of Otik on 2016-06-22 15:49:00 UTC Reply

Divided in Thought: A Baron PC Story by PoorCynic on 2016-06-22 06:27:00 UTC Reply

The sprawling fortress of Worhkshap seemed to constantly echo with noise. Even now, in the early evening, silence was a rare commodity. Wandering scholars and lecturers were allowed to preach their wisdom in the main courtyard to whoever was willing to listen, and often had to shout over each other in order to be heard. Three of them were currently having a spirited debate over the em-dash and en-dash military formations. Someone had begun selling popcorn to the onlooking crowd.

Some of the smaller buildings housed small schools dedicated to the various magics often used in battle against the Marizu. Lectures may have ended for the day, but visitors would still be able to hear the scribbling of quills on paper and the quiet muttering of scholars going about their work.

In the great hall of Worhkshap itself, visitors exchanged stories of their triumphs and tragedies as they enjoyed a sumptuous feast. There was laughing, boasting, singing, and the occasional shout of "Ha, yes!" The conversation was only slightly muted near the head of the room, where a few people nervously looked at the empty seat of the baron and spoke quietly amongst themselves.

Almost none of those sounds reached the ears of Baron PC, the Poor Cynick. He was in his private chambers, buried in the heart of Worhkshap's keep. It was there that he crafted his ideas, wrote his proclamations, and honed his skills. The specialized stonework blocked out the noise so prevalent in the fortress, which was exactly how he had designed it to work. Silence helped him think.

That was the idea, anyway.

Baron PC was at his desk, scribbling away at an ink-spattered piece of parchment laid out before him. Surrounding it were maps, notes, and accounts gathered from across Weab. Every so often he would pause in his writing to check one of the reports, or consult something on a chart.

His expression changed, a harsh frown creasing his features. With a muttered curse, the baron crumpled up the parchment and threw it into the nearby fireplace. Judging from the amount of papery ash already in the hearth, this was not a new occurrence.

Baron PC let the quill slip from his fingers as he stood up. So much has changed in such little time, he thought. The Marizu League makes strides, and despite recent successes we seem to be unable to dislodge them from their holdings. The new attacks in Marh Vale show that well enough. He moved aside some papers to uncover some more reports, all written in code. Sightings of Marizu lust-spirits are on the rise as well, especially in the lands of Ahr-Bihnder and Ruebee. Even this new mercenary power in Vidya Gaym, the O'erwatch, seems to have fallen prey to them.

He sighed and rubbed his temples, all while trying to ignore the itching in his palms. It had been so much easier back when he was just a knight. Find where the Marizu were, ride in, and attack until exhaustion won the day. But those tactics would no longer do. Not with the responsibilities he now carried.

There was a knock at the door. Baron PC looked down at the desk, thought about making a token effort to straighten it up, then immediately dismissed said thought. "Enter," he said.

The heavy door swung open, revealing his chamberlain. "Your guests have been asking for you, my lord," he said, the barest hint of reproach in his voice.

"If they have been asking specifically to speak with me, then they should already know that keep my own hours. I will meet with them when I am ready." Baron PC paused. "But that is not the only reason you came up here, is it?"

"No, my lord." The chamberlain held out an envelope. The wax seal of the baronial council was extremely obvious. "You have received a summons. The council meeting is at hand."

The baron nodded as he took the envelope and broke the seal. "Of course. One of the many demands of this post that must be addressed. Arrange for transportation immediately."

"Yes sir." The chamberlain paused. "Will you be speaking with Baron Phobos about possibly connecting to the Knights' Road?"

"That will definitely be on my list. I suppose he will attempt to exercise some sort of underhanded scheme to try and gain a greater profit than me." A small smile came to his lips, and one low laugh escaped his throat. "Honestly? The thought of dealing with the blindingly obvious machinations of my fellow barons seems almost like fun. Certainly more fun than…" He gestured to the crowded desk.

"I shall go and arrange your escort, my lord," the chamberlain said as he retreated from the room.

Baron PC sat down at his desk as he read through the summons. Yes. Yes, perhaps this distraction was exactly what he needed to clear his head. The Marizu could wait. They were always going to be there.
Might as well give this a whirl. by DCCCV on 2016-06-22 05:27:00 UTC Reply

V has been all over Plort. He was first seen in Sonick de'Hedgehog. While in Lotor, he witnessed oppobrious deeds, perpetrated by The Marizu, and is currently heading towards Borrd.

Who knows what else Plort!Me is going to do?

*More information forthcoming*
Presenting the Coat of Arms of Ser Data of La Wunj by Ser Data on 2016-06-21 20:21:00 UTC Reply

((Yeah I realize it's rough, I threw it together in MS Paint because I have little to no skill with image editing. If anyone wants to take a shot at improving it, I would be grateful. I will also likely post a story about Ser Data eventually. Also, yes, it is supposed to be a lozenge, because there's not exactly a shield type for someone who shifts genders regularly.))

Here. by Huinesoron on 2016-06-22 10:54:00 UTC Reply

A lozenge paly of nine, vert and argent, a raven volant sable with wings displayed and elevated.

I'm sure Ser Data and Baron Thanasius Ampelius will be delighted to know they share the Raven Volant as their shields. Luckily Ser Data's shield is varied, and the raven has different wings.

Inglish heraldry as practiced in Plort denotes neither sex nor gender with shield shape (or anything else for that matter); you're free to use whichever you prefer.

hS

Thanks! by Data Junkie on 2016-06-23 21:57:00 UTC Reply

That looks so much better.

A tale of what Ser Data has be doing of late. by Ser Data on 2016-06-21 23:28:00 UTC Reply

A figure of indistinct gender stood in the abandoned city of La Wunj, surveying their surroundings. Bundled under their arm was a large roll of fabric, which looked suspiciously like the flag of Iric. Perhaps not the original flag, but definitely a flag with the same colors. Had someone been there to observe the figure and discern their identity, it would be clear that this person was none other than Ser Data, a Knight of Plort who had served as both Dar and Op of Iric at various points during its height, before disappearing to parts unknown. Rumor has it that their journeys took them past the Mistwall, while those less kind say they simply hid from their duties in the city of Tamblor. Whatever the truth, it was a sure fact that not only had they never drawn the sword and dagger worn at their side, the weapons seemed to be bound to their sheaths. Data was certainly known more for political machinations, occasionally against their fellow Knights and the Barons, than for their campaigns against the Marizu
“Let’s see… If I’m going to set up the flag, I’m going to need somewhere high up to fly it. No point in bringing this back if no one can see it.”
Data looked around, and set their sights on the tallest building in the city, a ruined tower left over from the castle of Chaett. Not an easy climb, but worth it if their plan worked. With their goal in mind, they set out through the empty city streets. It was an eerily quiet journey, Data’s quiet humming being the only sound around. If everything worked, that would soon change though. If Data had their way, La Wunj would be returned to its former glory. The flag of Iric was merely meant as a beacon to let others know there was a presence in the city. While Data wasn’t too sure about this “Riding of Sittorese” that had sprung up in their absence, they had no real desire to resurrect the Republic of Iric. Their loyalty was to Plort and their city, not to the region the city was situated in, nor the frequently changing Baronies that laid claim to the city.
“... Shave his belly with a rusty razor… Hmmmm hmm hm. Oh, here we go. Whelp. Time to climb.”
Data took the rope tied around the flag and tied it around their torso, adjusted their weapons, and started to scale the bricks making up the wall of the tower. While free climbing the tallest structure in an abandoned city without someone to watch after you is not a great idea, it was hardly Data’s worst idea. The climb was not easy and several times Data slipped and only managed to catch themself at the last minute, but at the end they made it to the top, palms and knuckles scraped and bloody. They took a piece of chalk and wrote out an arcane formula on the turret of the tower, and used the blood from their hands to fuel it. Soon, there was an androgynous ethereal figure standing in front of them. Data untied the flag, and handed it to the spirit, who stiffly accepted it.
“Alright, your job is to fly the flag and watch the city. Keep an eye on people coming and going, and if any break the old rules, get rid of them. Wait no! I mean, if any break the rules, evict them from the city. Do NOT kill anyone. Please. Now, I suppose to make this official I’ll have to name you, huh? In that case, congratulations Shodan, you’re the new protector of La Wunj. Keep an eye on things for me, I have other preparations to make.”
The spirit unfurled the flag and set it flying in the wind, holding it up while its expressionless face surveyed the city. Data nodded, and began their descent. Minutes later, they were once again on the ground, after a short fall of the last four feet. After taking a few moments to recover and bandage their hands, they set out, heading for the next stop on their journey.

((Backstory/Biography will come eventually, this was just easier to write and I didn't want to lose momentum.))
Is that a raven? (nm) by Huinesoron on 2016-06-21 20:34:00 UTC Reply

Yes (nm) by Data Junkie on 2016-06-21 20:43:00 UTC Reply

The Tale of Hieronymus, Part Three, by Hieronymus Graubart on 2016-06-21 14:00:00 UTC Reply

is obviously a sequel to this.

The humble hermits request was met with grace. But rather than finding the rest he had hoped for in that tiny corner at Arkive, the archivist’s new apprentice was immediately sent off to demonstrate and improve his Eich-Tee-Ehm-Ehl skills in the devastated lands.

While Hieronymus was supposed to travel between Arkive and the river Freewep, he somehow became sidetracked to the City of Borrd. He arrived just in time for the annually Baronial Council, where he barely escaped imprisonment and prosecution for treason and libel by Baron Thanasius Ampelius. Had he not conveniently gone lost in the wood of Kar’eer again, Hieronymus would certainly have talked his head off.

On his flight from the baron’s ire, the hermit fell into a dubious dungeon. But that is another story and shall be told on another day – if Hieronymus ever reveals how he got out of this maze again.

The way through the dungeon may have led to an alternate universe, for Hieronymus clearly remembers that he got out of the forest by following Baron Dann from Castle Tegnoh to La Wunj, where he attended a great festival, apparently held annually to celebrate a victory over the ypurs. His memories of spotting Dame Karrin the Blue and Baron Thanasius Ampelius, and making an awkward attempt to apologize, are much less clear. Before he could hear a response, Hieronymus fell to the floor, very drunken, rolled under a table, started to snore and never spoke another word in Iric.

When he woke up again, all the Ops and Dars of Iric were gone, La Wunj lay mostly abandoned, none of the few citizens Hieronymus still found remembered any recent festivities, and when he asked for Baron Dann, glares and stares were the only answers the hermit got, for everybody knows that south-eastern Plort is and always was ruled by the fair Baroness Delta Juliette. Thus, Hieronymus joined the last trek that left La Wunj to the east, and since he became more invested in the Riding of Sittorese, he travelled on until he reached the Empire of Fanvik-Neht, where he built a secret hermitage which he hopes will once become a stronghold of goodriding.

How he got across the ocean and then back again, is still one of many mysteries, but while the Baronial Council assembles again, the archivist’s apprentice is back to his job of dusting off old scrolls in Arkive. Cetera censeo, even if some strange fate takes him to Borrd again, Hieronymus the hermit should not be by common non-objection the Commonwealth of Wechi’s delegate at the Baronial Council of the Union of Plort. See? There is an objection.

((I had so hoped for an opportunity to finally put one line into the IRC while having an excuse to ignore all further discussion. Alas, it was not meant to be.))

HG

Revised version by Hieronymus Graubart on 2016-06-25 17:50:00 UTC Reply

The last paragraph has been revised to reflect recent events. Since it is already in the chronicles of Plort, I won’t repeat it here.

Also, Wechi’s Common Rule of Non-objection and the Law of Goodriding have been established.

((I seriously hope the latter will pass the current council.

HG))

In an ooc sort of manner. Still technically not here but. by JulyFlame on 2016-06-21 01:53:00 UTC Reply

I was sitting on these for awhile.

-July, who might be able to spare some time to give some additions to Plort sometime this week assuming she doesn't get attacked by giant milk containers.

Nice. by Larfen J. Stocke, esq on 2016-06-22 08:17:00 UTC Reply

Considering that you were sitting on these, I'd assume you drew them?
I mean, I'd hope they were yours. Wouldn't want anyone's arse marks on my art but mine.

Good job! And good luck with those milk containers!
((Sorry, but who is pictured in the photos?)) (nm) by son_of_heaven176 on 2016-06-21 19:30:00 UTC Reply

((From the top...)) by Data Junkie on 2016-06-21 19:50:00 UTC Reply

Phobos, Nesh, and I think the bottom two are July and VM? I'm a little more shaky on those. I've met Phobos and Nesh irl before so I recognize them. I've met VM too, but she didn't have a ponytail at the time. Otherwise it does resemble her. I've only seen of July, but the third one matches my memory of the photo.

Actually... by Phobos on 2016-06-21 19:56:00 UTC Reply

From the top: Phobos, Nesh, hS(?), July

The backgrounds are in the colors of our heraldry and you can see the flame broach holding July's cloak.

-Phobos

Ah, thanks for the correction by Data Junkie on 2016-06-21 20:24:00 UTC Reply

I missed the broach, and I have never seen any kind of representation of hS, so I didn't make the connection.
Yah, it's me. by Huinesoron on 2016-06-21 20:16:00 UTC Reply

The clothes also match the colours of our heraldry, hence the red and yellow on me.

hS

These are really quite good. by Phobos on 2016-06-21 16:38:00 UTC Reply

I'm trying to figure out who Baron Phobos reminds me of. There's some actor somewhere that looks like that picture. He obviously gets the part if we ever make a movie.

Anyway, I don't think Baron Phobos is the most dangerous person pictured. I name no names, but one of the others has a gleam in her eye that promises fire. Another has a look that makes the viewer feel as a specimen pinned to a board.

-Phobos
Looking at Phobos... by Huinesoron on 2016-06-21 09:18:00 UTC Reply

... I abruptly understand why Baron hS doesn't want to go to the Council this year.

Yikes. Those are fantastic.

hS

PS: Any chance the College of Arms at Maklaur could hire you to finish the set? I think there's pictures out there of most PGs - I haven't seen a recent one of Delta Juliette, and I don't recall seeing one of PoorCynic, but other than that... I think it would be fantastic to have a full portrait gallery. ^_^

Baron Phobos is Not Amused. (nm) by Phobos on 2016-06-21 16:29:00 UTC Reply

Time for a biography. by Sir Hardric on 2016-06-20 17:50:00 UTC Reply

Here comes the story of... Sir Hardric. (so original)

Hardric was at first a mere denizen of Air'ihpotre, without great knowledge of the lands of Weab. He didn’t really see the need to leave his home then, content with the horizon under his gaze, and mere reveries.

This was to change when, one day, he found in the warehouse of some merchant a copy of the first scroll of the art of Arpying, as it was described by the masters Gaigacks and Arrenson. Great was his interest in this art, and the possibilities it offered.

Still, he didn’t leave his home until the invasion of Air'ihpotre by the Marizu. Unable to accept the changes brought in the new ‘kingdom’ of Roe Lin, Hardric left his home behind. For a long time he wandered through the wild lands of Weab, seeing new kingdoms, seeking new knowledge. He was, however, wary of the Marizu after seeing the desolation they could bring.

It wasn’t until years later that he found his way to the lands of Tivit. There he found more knowledge than he could ever dream of. It was there, several months later, that he heard about the tales of Jay, Acacia, and the land of Plort.

Through the discovery of such a place filled him with awe, he didn’t muster the courage to go to this land for several months. Still, he finally traveled to the island, and was welcomed like a friend. Most of his time was spent wandering between Borrd, Wechi, and De’endee with its great libraries.

The tales of the exploits of the knights and barons of Plort had steered him to come to this island, so naturally he decided to train in order to join them, eager to write his own story beside them.

However, his brash behavior, and his difficulties to follow Spelin’s commands, stalled his training, forcing him to follow thrice the Knight’s Road before being finally knighted by Lady Iximaz and earning the title of Sir.

As a knight, his main weapons are sword and magic, for he believes in the dual power of body and mind. He began his travels with only a grosse messer. This weapon is named Legard. For magic, Hardric mainly uses spells drawn from a tome found in the lands of JaiButcharh, in the fief of Air'ihdresd, and which belonged to a wizard called Nicodelli. He still calls the tome by that name in order to honor the wizard.

He’s also an adept of many styles of Arpying. Although the words Gaigacks and Arrenson are still dear to his heart, he mainly uses two other styles: the Faituh style, where the new face is created through focusing on key events from the face’s past, and the Perusonah style, named after one of the fiefs of the deadly Athlusian Dominion, a land of conflict between law and chaos where the power of demon summoning reigns supreme. The practitioner does not create a wholly new face here, but musters his willpower in order to overcome his daily doubts and inner darkness, thus earning great power. But should the spirit of the practitioner waver, this same darkness would consume him in no time.

His Inglish heraldry is:

Per fess, argent and sable, an eagle displayed gules with wings elevated, a twenty-faced die argent beneath a sword argent crossed with a pen argent.

His Alvish heraldry is:

Ner white, rena black: canta nastar alta tera, red heraldic eagle tail; canta miri, crossed white sword and red-tipped white feather; indil in fore, white twenty-sided die.

((My thanks to Huinesoron for betaing this and doing the heraldry.))

Mm... miiight be. by Huinesoron on 2016-06-19 08:30:00 UTC Reply

Sorry, it's been a busy month. I don't think Baron Me will be attending, but there's a couple of results from the Edict of Bast that I need to look through, plus leftover business from last year. If you want to start the Council you can, and I'll chime in when I get time; otherwise I can start with the Edict tomorrow.

hS

Little old me? by Desdendelle on 2016-06-19 13:05:00 UTC Reply

But I don't know how to do it!
*semi-panics*

*perks up* Somebody say Plort? (nm) by Iximaz on 2016-06-18 23:29:00 UTC Reply

*also perks up* (nm) by eatpraylove on 2016-06-19 20:19:00 UTC Reply

Well then, it's also time for me to get cracking. by DCCCV on 2016-06-18 22:52:00 UTC Reply

I need to start my permission request soon, it's been 4 months since I joined.

You don't need Permission for Plort threads. by eatpraylove on 2016-06-21 15:09:00 UTC Reply

The difference is that you're just a citizen/civilian instead of a Knight (someone with Permission) or a Baron (Permission Giver). I'd love to see what your coat of arms looks like!