GAME OF BONES FIRST NEW SUMMIT

Hidden inside of an ever changing forest lies a great tree, grown over the remnants of a long forgotten keep. The Great tree rises high into the clouds, its thick bark harder then steel, with the wood behind it mimicking rock in strength. Through a single tunnel lays the slightly overgrown obsidian walls, and past those are walls of thick, green iron. After that lies a simple collection of broken thrones arranged in a circle around a stone onyx table. This hall lost in time is the location of the summit, decorated with vines and flowers arranged into great tapestries. Large rods hammered into the ground illuminate the area with small red orbs casting a pink glow upon the area, any in the pink glow would find their body naturally relaxing. Each Lord or Lady has their place marked down, though if you wish to take a seat next to someone you know, then feel free to.

Upon the table lies a feast fit for an emperor, or several really. Boar, beef, quail, geese...If it can be hunted or caught then it is most likely there, along with a grand variety of sweet fruits and hearty greens. All through the evening, veiled young women wearing robes as black as their hair and tight as corsets wander the event, topping off flagons or carrying away plates. Ask nicely and they may even rub your shoulders.

[21:26] Ulhan Blackflame: "Hello and welcome one and all, to the Blackflame fortress. Take a seat and relax, feel free to eat your fill, but do leave room for dessert~"
[21:28] Jennifer Langley smiles at the greeting. "Thank you very much for your hospitality madam." She offers a small bow, before moving to take her seat at the table.
[21:29] Gracella Margeth comes wandering into the fortress. She was wearing an expensive black dress with a white flower upon the left breast. Her hair was down and put into large curls. She wasn't usually one for such fanciful attire, but she was the wife of a ruler now! She had to look her best. She moves with a long stride, hands folded in front of her stomach as she went along. "Thank you, Madam Blackflame." she curtsies, grabbing her dress to do so. The makes her way to a chair and tries to somehow gracefully get up into it, but it was a mite bit too tall. She waits till no one is watching (that she can see) before hopping up into it.
[21:30] Mikael Tarzenko sits calmly, staring ahead, his Ward and rumoured heir, Charles on his right, and his advisor Lord Kuroihane to his left. He eats little, his left wrist shaking a little from an old injury. He nods towards Ulhan, the Matron's hospitality very generous. She even had that rare dish from his homelands, a Seared Big Huge Killer Fish, the name was ungainly outside of his tongue.
[21:31] Charles Cervya swirled a small glass of wine about in his hands, the only amount he would indulge himself with. He needed to be ready and calm, his Father was supposed to be here, and the young man needed to stay calm for that.
[21:34] Veilcov took a seat crossed the table from Mikael, through stoic in his appearance, since he had last entered the noble realm his attire had changed. Instead of the common noble vestments that would normally accompany his presence, there was a suit of steel worn breastplate and black leathers underneath, the steel plates adorned in the trimmings and edged in gold. More abnormally though, there was the golden circlet of Cemia. The sign of kingship once more, where it was once known that Cemia had fallen.
[21:34] Asharia Crimsonbloom is never without a few servants, and they trail her as she steps into the fortress hall, clad in the usual black, starry cloak and tunic/trouser arrangement natural to her home. At least one of her wives was around; she rather imagined the other was buried in duties of state. "My thanks to you. It has been my desire to visit for quite some time."
[21:37] Hayfa Rais slithered into place upon the throne next to her grandfather, awkwardly piling her long tail upon it and overspilling its arms. She had on a matching garb to Veilcov, black robes that dressed her crossed the torso with a burqa-like hood that was currently tipped back, off of her head. She looked out of place from many of the other attitudes in the building, rather than being straight faced and stern, she seemed to be smiling and actively waving at the fellow nobles.
[21:37] Solene Solene was by her father's side, as he was agonizing. On his bed, one year after his wife's death from a disease, he was looking at his only daughter. Two days ago, he fought in jousts, and was violently thrown off his horse by a younger and stronger knight. The old man's body couldn't take the shot, and he got really grave internal bleeding. The doctors weren't abbout to heal him, but failed. Solene was here to ear his last words.

"Solene... Before you rule... Just remember this... Onor must remain a free country, don't become the vassal of anyone, try to developp it and to make a better place of it. Always repsect the three orders, each of them is equally worthy..." He interrupted, coughing violently and spitting blood. Her daughter handed him a cup of wine. He then continued. "Act with nobility and honor, follow the knight code, and your people will respect you... I believe you'll be a great Duchess... Maybe more..." After those words, the Duke fell back in the Coma, and an hour later, died. After letting to the new duchess a few hours to cry his death, a knight enter the room. "Sol... Hum, Your grace. I am Sorry But you must be introduced as soon as possible."

After she recieved the simple gold circlet, crown of her Duchy, Solene had no time to take new measures, an exceptionnal meeting of the greatest leaders of the world had been organized. After a trip in ship, she arrived to the place of the meeting. Accompanied to the entrance by two elite knights, she asked them to wait outside, and entered. She was wearing a long and tight green dress with some golden decorations with a reasonable cleavage, aside from her gold circlet, she also wore a golden necklace. The young woman and new ruler entered the room and watched her fellows. "Salutation to each of you, respected leaders. I am Solene Duchess of the Onorach."
[21:42] Ulhan Blackflame smiled at each guest, dressed in her simple black robes that hugged her body, just as they did for every other Blackflame woman attending to each lord's needs. Her head was naked save for her long curled hair that bounced upon her shoulders. "I do believe we have a few more Guest before we start with the meeting, though it is a pleasure to meet you all in person, and that you all agreed to come visit the home of such an old woman. Then again young people do enjoy free food from their elders~"
[21:43] Mikael Tarzenko finally looked across the table at the lord of Cemia, his circlet had been made in echo of the Imperial Circlet, but for a few details, Tarzenko and Cervya circlets where almost twins. "It would be a paranoid man who would not trust the ancient laws of Guest right Charles." Mikael said to the young man on his right, but his eyes did not leave Veilcov, a touch hypocritically considering that he was wearing a Raw Silk vest under his fine uniform.
[21:43] Hayfa Rais waved excitedly to Solene, much like she had waved at everybody in the room. The only difference is that this time the fellow noble was not yet in a seat, and she took the opportunity to pat the seat next to her, trying to coax The Duchess to take a seat beside her and her grandfather. "Oh! Duchess Solene! Duchess Solene! Sit yourself with me!" She implored, tail shaking uncontrollably in the sudden excitement.
[21:45] Charles Cervya "Is it paranoia when you work to prevent yourself from breaking such laws sire?" Charles says while drumming his fingers upon the stone table.
[21:46] Gracella Margeth pulled her chair closer to the table to make it easier for her to actually reach the utensils and food. She didn't eat, but instead sipped idly at the glass of wine before her. Being so small, it didn't take much to get into her bloodstream and make her a little loopy. So after a few sips, she set the glass back down and set her hands back upon her lap. Her back stood straight, and she held her head high. She was a noble now, right? She had an image to upkeep!
[21:46] Solene With a little smile, amused by Hayfa's behavior, Solene complied and sat next to her. "Well it's a pleasure to be so warmly welcome !" She stated, in a good mood thanks to Hayfa's intervention.
[21:47] Ulhan Blackflame: (Anyone else?)
[21:47] Mikael Tarzenko "No, that is also part of Guest Right, if you have eaten of their bread and salt, then to raise your own hand against your host is equally dishonourable, some would say more so." Mikael replied to Charles, his knife slowly sawing a chunk of fish away from fish ahead of him. He raised his fork and chewed thoughtfully, before replacing his fork, and sipping at his wine.
[21:49] Solene Nodded to Mikael, completely approving his way of thinking. "I can see your people have good values." She stated.
[21:51] Jennifer Langley glances around the table occasionally as she helps herself to some of the food on the table, taking a little of everything and placing it on her plate, getting off to a larger start than anyone else currently at the table. With her plate filled she sits back again, adjusting the small crown on her head, before crossing her hands on the table in front of her and properly looking around the at the gathered people in interest.
[21:52] Hayfa Rais smiled up to Solene in the blatant admiration of her attire, more so, the circlet upon her head. "That's a very beautiful show upon your head, Madame Solene. You are Duchess of Onor? Correct... Of course you are, you announced that. I am Hayfa, Hayfa Rais of The Eternal Endeavor. Heir one of fourteen. I aspire to be a ruler like you one day."
[21:54] Asharia Crimsonbloom perks an eyebrow curiously as she watches the Governor-Centurion and his protege. Eventually she manages to maneuver herself and her small party closer. "Mikael. Charles. Good to see you could make it. I hope the sea hasn't treated you poorly."
[21:55] Ulhan Blackflame rings a small bell that rest in front of her, awaiting a calm to settle over the hall before standing to speak. "Well honored quest, I did not invite you simply to dine and stare at each other. The world is changing again. How long has it been since the grand wars tore across the land? For some hundreds of years, for other, it was only a few. I regret to inform you all that in the time of peace, many pest have arisen from the ashes. Orcs, once thought extinct have repopulated into small bands, working towards unifying and ravaging the land. In the hills great goblin cities are uncovered, with their dens flooding with fresh troops on the hunt for slaves or plunder. The seas are still safe, but soon enough the great elemental beast from below will awaken, and then not long after their fea cousins. But worst of all this, is the sighting of the lost and forgotten dwarves."
[21:56] Mikael Tarzenko finally broke away from his intense stare to look upon Asharia. "My Lady Crimsonbloom." He said nodding. "The sea may hammer all she desires against our ships of the line, it will not avail her." He said, cutting himself off to listen to Ulhan.
[21:56] Solene Solene smiled with amusement once again, the young lamia was a really charming neighbor. She replied simply, with humility. "Yes, this is the crown rulers of my people wore for centuries. I hope I will be worthy of it. It is a real pleasure to meet you, Hayfa, Rais of the Eternal Endeavor. But I barely start my rule yet, you may be a better ruler than me, future will tell us.
[21:59] Hayfa Rais pulls forth her collection of papers and an inkwell that she placed upon the table, dipping her quit into it and scratching the words of Ulhan onto her papers tentatively. She turned her head to Solene, oddly enough speaking and writing at the same time. "Well, if you are ever caught without knowledge of where to take your rule, I am always here to assist you. It would be good for me to gain experience as a helper of a ruler before a real ruler."
[22:01] Asharia Crimsonbloom likewise made a point of hushing to listen to Matron Blackflame, lips pursed. "And I presume, madam, you would have us do something about them, eh?"
[22:01] Canard Kuroihane sits jovially though obviously nervously at Mikael's left. He likes the fact that his lord deems him worthy to come to these summits, but social stuff of this sort is always intimidating! Resting just below his chair is his journal for recording events, though currently he's more focused on trying to take in the sights as well as the meal. It's a feast he wishes he knew the likes of back home, though the tengu is consciously avoiding the quail and geese.
[22:05] Solene Listened carefully to Uhlan, thinking about what it implied, and trying to evaluate the solutions she had against this several problems. In the same time, she heare Hayfa's proposition. She nodded. "A good leader needs good advisors. You could come to my court, though I can't give you a minister right away, it would be interesting to take your advices in account. You would be more than welcome to pay a visit to my kingdom, young lady."
[22:05] Solene "... To my duchy !" She corrected herself quickly enough.
[22:09] Ulhan Blackflame chuckled lightly into her hand. "As you can see, such things, well other then the dwarves, would never be a threat to me. And while I would gladly sally forth into battle once more against these hordes, a woman getting past her eighty-nine-hundredth birthday has no business running around as though she was only a thousand. No these problems will plague your people, of that I have no doubt, well along with the others who were invited but ended up missing the summit, or simply burned the invitations. Instead of sending you to simply deal with these and warning you of their occurrences. I will offer bounties as well, to be paid for each raiding horde vanquished, each goblin hold destroyed, every elemental sent to rest, any undead slain, and all Dwarven expeditions repelled."
[22:11] Jennifer Langley was eating slowly as people talked, but at the mention of bounties she looked up and placed her knife and fork down on the table. She swallowed quickly, and cleared her throat before speaking. "Just what kind of bounties are we talking here?"
[22:12] Gracella Margeth listened closely and made a few mental notes. While not on adventurer anymore, she could certainly send word to her once renowned hunting party to take up arms once again for profit. It was all very dramatic, she thought.  The thought did cross her mind of their failing in their task, but just as soon as it entered, she pushed it away.  She said nothing. She had no room to speak. She had been but a lowly farmer. What did she know of warfare?
[22:14] Hayfa Rais excitedly writhed her tail around in her seat, nodding to Solene as he head turned back to Ulhan. She raised her hand after Ulhan finished speaking, waiting on her to be called on for speech, such as a child would.
[22:14] Solene The new elements were extremely interesting. Solene leant a bit forward, as she took a lottle sip of her cup. Her eyes lloked from one noble to another, studying their reactions. She then declared. "Well my knights are always seeking for glory, it would be their pleasure to slay the evil and defend the good." She declared.
[22:15] Ulhan Blackflame: "I understand that you all will seek to expand and return to an age of glory. I have gold, arms, magic, material for building, artifacts from ages past, and most importantly I have a grand excess of food. Another minor fact is my lands are always neutral so if there is ever a disagreement between any of you, you may settle it peacefully here. Yes young one?" Ulhan sais while facing Hayfa.
[22:16] Canard Kuroihane  at the very least is paying some attention, and this line of talk does concern him. As far as he knows, such things shouldn't be a threat to the Commonwealth, except for the elemental beasts. To ruin the sea would be grave for their island indeed. Though he is not courageous enough to venture asking a question now, not at least until he sees what happens when someone else does.
[22:16] Hayfa Rais put her hand down, quickly taking her quill up and writing Ulhan's dialogue word for word once more. "Oh! Uhm... Yes, why are the dwarves a bad thing?"
[22:18] Mikael Tarzenko "Oppressors, Charlatans and betrayers to a man." Mikael interjected. "History's pages are stained with the blood of their atrocities."
[22:19] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "bounties, you say. My my, you are a wise woman." The grey elf said, grinning toothily. "Why, my dear~? They're avaricious and cruel. They seek to dominate and ruin all lands to the benefit of themselves alone."
[22:19] Ulhan Blackflame: "Ahh, I forgot, many of you think of the smaller human like people to be true dwarves, and not their displaced kin. True Dwarves were there at the creation of our world, and once the Queen of Ash started to burn the world, they retreated into the deep heart of the earth to study magic. They see humans, elves, and anything not them to be slaves, or worse experiments for their deranged practices."
[22:19] Hayfa Rais furrowed her brows shaking her head. "Well, pages that are stained in blood are much harder to read, and if one cannot read it, is it not easier to forget?" She asked Mikael.
[22:20] Ulhan Blackflame: Where*
[22:21] Hayfa Rais lowered herself in her chair slightly, still writing away, but her face had been saddened. "Oh... Right, they are one of b]those[/b] kinds."
[22:22] Hayfa Rais: [b]those[/b]* Mmm
[22:22] Charles Cervya: "So if Dwarves are so bad, why have they not conquered the world when everyone has been at war?"
[22:23] Canard Kuroihane: "But...why are they returning now, then, after so many years? And how powerful are they now? This is very curious indeed."
[22:23] Mikael Tarzenko scowled lightly at Hayfa, the only child he allowed to question him was Charles, and only because Charles was on the cusp of Manhood anyway. "Just because the Commonwealth does not idolise it's own history Child does not mean we forget it. Those unaware of History are damned to repeat it."
[22:25] Hayfa Rais: "But all things are forgotten in time, sir. I'm fairly certain that means that repetition is an inevitability in this world, so long as we contenue to ruin the pages of our books."
[22:26] Mikael Tarzenko scowls again, "You are aware of a 'Metaphor' aren't you child? There is not literal blood upon our books."
[22:27] Hayfa Rais nestles down in her chair, changing to another paper as the front and back of her current one had been filled. "Of course not, sir. Not many murders happen in a library."
[22:27] Solene Smiled at the little exchange. The young girl really amusing her.
[22:28] Veilcov reaches over and takes Hayfa's shoulder, uttering his first word of the evening. "Quiet, Hayfa."
[22:28] Ulhan Blackflame looked towards the members of the commonwealth and offered them each a smile. "They suffered some sabotage many years ago, around five hundred or so. A great earthquake caused by one of their own. Most of their tunnels and homes were destroyed. As for why they are returning, well before the earthquake they were set to ravage the world and take it over by force. Most of their tunnels should be rebuilt by now, and many of their young will be venturing out to claim slaves. Be warned for their young are still great magi. Oh, and dear child, And even though you might mean the dwarves well young Lamia, they only see you as flesh to be better shaped and molded."
[22:29] Gracella Margeth: "with the dwarves re-emerging. Will my kind be mistaken for them?"
[22:29] Gracella Margeth finally speaks up, her voice small, however
[22:29] Hayfa Rais looks up to er grandfather, and slowly she lowered her nead, nodding. "I am sorry for insulting you, Sir Tarzenko..."
[22:31] Mikael Tarzenko turned to Gracella. "Governor-Centurion Tarzenko." He corrected Hayfa. "A peasant would be able to tell the difference between the a Halfling and a Dwarf, much heavier set, and usually the first words out of them is an arrogance slur against your race."
[22:31] Gracella Margeth turns to face Mikael. "You say that, but I think you vastly overestimate the intelligence of the men in your armies."
[22:32] Solene Frowned as she heard the description of the dwarves, she hated slave makers.  "Are the dwarves known for any weaknesses, does their armies lack some kind of troops, or are they less at ease with some time of grounds ? I bet people leaving in the inners of the earth have little knowledge in naval settings."
[22:32] Gracella Margeth places her hands on the table "Also. Do not call me a halfling. I am half to no one."
[22:33] Ulhan Blackflame: "The first words most likely from a Dwarves mouth are either an enchanting spell, or a slaying spell. Worry not, Dwarves also bear ashy skin that appears to be stone, with eyes as dark as coal. If any could pass for a dwarf here...Well no, I fail to see any who could."
[22:33] Canard Kuroihane: "Naruhodo...they will be a tough foe, no doubt. Do we know anything of their tactics from the first raids?" He takes a moment to look over to his lord and Gracella, trying his best to calm the situation. "Now now, this is a place of unity, let us relax, oui?"
[22:33] Mikael Tarzenko "And I suspect you in turn underestimate their Intelligence. There are many University graduates in my Armies." Mikael replied calmly.
[22:34] Gracella Margeth turns to Ulhan and bows her head. "That is all I wished to know. my books lacked much information on dwarves, much less and field notes or observations."
[22:35] Solene Nods to Canard, aproving his approach of the problem.
[22:35] Ulhan Blackflame: "Dwarven armies are made of slaves, but they are less of the people they were before dwarven hands have changed them." Looking to lord Tarzenko. "You sir, a dwarf would weld iron blades onto your arms and place your head into your stomach." Looking at Hayfa. "You little one, they would armor you in stone and remove your arms, increasing the size of your mouth so you could swallow people whole."
[22:36] Mikael Tarzenko turned to Canard. "There are precious few records of the Dwarven Military Tactics. Lord Kuroihane, study of an enemy's tactics usually involve talking to survivors. The Dwarves left none."
[22:37] Ulhan Blackflame: "The older dwarves will know how to fight, how to send troops about to cause fear and which men are officers to slay or control. Younger dwarves will instead simply do as much damage as they can, paying little attention to the morale of the enemy or who commands who."
[22:37] Hayfa Rais squinted at Ulhan, simply shaking her head. "I already have sisters that can do that without the need of magical enhancement."
[22:37] Ulhan Blackflame: "Then perhaps your mother is more dwarven then you think."
[22:38] Gracella Margeth: "Let's not make such accusations."
[22:38] Hayfa Rais stared at Ulhan a moment, then slowly started to shake her head.
[22:39] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "I've never had much of a problem with killing enemies who refuse to see reason. I'd say you could even have me do it for free, but that's against my nature."
[22:39] Solene Heard the description with horror. She felt a sudden hate growing in her chest. Anger in her voice, she said. "Then they shalll be slain... Until the last ones accepted to leave peacefully, and that they are not above other races. If they can't accept that... They shall be slain to the last one."
[22:40] Canard Kuroihane: "Truly a vision d'horreur, Lord Blackflame. From the sounds of it, any Dwarf we could capture is likely not one who can provide us with much information, willingly or otherwise. But I just don't understand; what drives an entire race to such drastic extremes?"
[22:42] Ulhan Blackflame: "Hate, an intense hate for all the other races. Dwarves are...Linked. They have not suffered a civil war even though they are divided into clans and fight they never seek to kill one another. They cannot understand us or our need to wipe each other out. So they seek to control us, and remove anything that doesn't make sense. They are logical, far to logical for their own good or the worlds."
[22:43] Solene: "Yet you said one of them sabotage them ? Why did that happen if they think in that way ?"
[22:44] Mikael Tarzenko growls slightly, a shocking display of public emotion for Mikael. "They are born with flinty hearts of obsidian, they know only hatred, they know nothing of Emotions like love, compassion, wonder, empathy or sorrow." He says, his fist tightening around his knife. "The books I studied in the Universities came all to the same conclusion, The Gods made a mistake in unleashing those Vermin." Mikael let the knife drop to his plate, his knuckles white. "One of the ancient Talgaren Scholars renounced his faith after studying the Abominations, stating that No merciful gods could allow such horrors to befall people."
[22:47] Ulhan Blackflame: "You all are familiar with the grand empire that existed about five hundred years ago? Who else but a Dwarf could have aided such a weak kingdom to conquer the world? Indeed I met that very dwarf. He was by far the most human dwarf I have ever met, and thats only because he experienced greed and desire of self. If he had succeeded, you all would be watching dwarves walk about in chains right now."
[22:47] Jennifer Langley: "Seems a shame he didn't succeed then."
[22:48] Asharia Crimsonbloom nods slowly, stroking her chin in thought. "Well, the past is the past. Understanding it won't help if we do nothing. I am sure we can all come to an accord about these things, amidst our own ambitions."
[22:48] Mikael Tarzenko "Matron Ulhan is leaving out the part where we would join them in Bondage Madame Langley."
[22:48] Jennifer Langley: "Ah. That would be largely unpleasant then."
[22:48] Ulhan Blackflame: "Well, he who enslaves his kin, is not above the notion of enslaving his fellow slavers."
[22:49] Canard Kuroihane: "Govenor-Centurion..." Canard says, softly as he can. "I know the situation is worrying, but please, do not let your emotions overwhelm you. Rest assured, between the summation of us, this threat can be repelled." At least, Canard hopes. He's actually got no idea, especially if there's infighting; and the fact that contention runs between them even in the face of a bigger threat, that's quite worrying. And if there's one thing Canard knows, it's that history books don't always include everything...
[22:50] Charles Cervya: "Do we know where the Dwarves will be coming from? Can we then simply close those entrances? Or better yet set ambushes around them?"
[22:53] Ulhan Blackflame: "There is a large set of mountains, to the south. From my searching and other means, that seems to be the most likely spot an invasion would first come from. But enough of this for now, I think its time you all speak and introduce yourselves, far past time. I do apologize about the dreary news first."
[22:53] Mikael Tarzenko shook his head in reply to Charles's question. "Countless Generations tried, never succeeded." Mikael replied, he reached out to the food, spearing a boar steak on his knife and pulling it back to his plate, serving himself a generous portion of Crackling as well, taking the chance to refill his goblet with dark rich red wine. "Your composure does you well Lord Kuroihane."
[22:53] Gracella Margeth rapped her knuckles on the table for a few moments . she purses her lips and looks over to her wife, then back to their host. She was thinking. This was far beyond her  experiences. she took notes in fine, elegant script.
[22:53] Solene Nodded, and got back to her thoughts. She then spoke. "It seems we have to come to a political agreement them. How about this. At the first sign of Dwarves activity, the lord who spotted them must warn all the others. And as soon as the dwarves attack, no matter what are the current conflict, we must ally, and bring the best assistance we can to the attacked one, in a first step, to defend, and slay their forces while they are outside, and in a second step, while they are weakened, to crush them, and make sure they won't try to invade even for the next generations. " She offered, a bit ambitiously
[22:54] Canard Kuroihane smiles warmly for the compliment, but stays silent so that others may introduce themselves. He'll have more to research on this matter later.
[22:55] Jennifer Langley regards Solene for a moment. "There is an issue with this plan. With the information Madam Blackflame has given us, I can confidently say that my ability to respond to an attack would be limited at best. The distance to travel would be quite larger."
[22:55] Jennifer Langley: (*large, hurr)
[22:57] Solene Nods. "Indeed, that is an issue, maybe trade support could be considered, but the military help at least would only concern the neighbors.
[22:58] Ulhan Blackflame: "If you cannot provide direct aid, simply say so and instead provide resources. There are also several mercenary bands I deal with, that through me you can sponsor to go in your place. Or if you feel adventurous and don't mind the fatigue that follows, I can teleport your forces to and from the location to fight the dwarves."
[22:59] Mikael Tarzenko "Lady Langley." Mikael began, slicing into the Boar meat. "Such an agreement is in effect a pledge that you will die to safeguard the other nations of the world." He chewed lightly for a few moments before swallowing. "Your lives would be the coin which the survivors spend reclaiming the world."
[22:59] Hayfa Rais takes out her personal notes and writes upon it, 'breed dwarf huner squad.'
[23:00] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "If we cannot provide direct aid, it would behoove us at least to declare a moratorium on our own raids. The defender can concentrate forces, then."
[23:01] Ulhan Blackflame: "Do remember that bandits, Pirates, orcs, and goblins also exists as threats as well. so if you simply stockpile while waiting to fight the dwarves, these warbands and ruffians will ravage the land in their place."
[23:01] Jennifer Langley smiles at Ulhan. "With the option of teleportation on the table, I am happy to lend my compliance in this matter."
[23:03] Solene "This is why those forces will only be dispatched once the threat is spotted. The creation of an international watch, just of a few dozens of men, could also be considered, to help us watch eventual dwarves activity."
[23:03] Canard Kuroihane is likewise content with taking notes on the matter, moving his plate aside and brushing tablecloth off to provide a good space for his journal. He records with rapt attention.
[23:04] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "Never said stockpile. Never said don't impose order on the land, either~"
[23:04] Ulhan Blackflame: "For those who wish to know more, my library is always open, its full of great works, histories, and even tax records from all over the world."
[23:05] Gracella Margeth: "Can we borrow them, and return them when we meet next?"
[23:05] Canard Kuroihane: "I greatly appreciate the offer, and would be honored to peruse the library!"
[23:06] Ulhan Blackflame: "They are very old, and I love them like my children. If you wait I can have copies made for the next summit if you don't have enough time to stay to read it."
[23:06] Solene Solene started to write a potential treaty the lords an ladies could sign in the end of the meeting if they agree.
[23:07] Gracella Margeth nods her head. "That would be lovely. I'd love to have the time to really read them carefully."
[23:08] Solene Frowns as she can't remember. "What is the day of today already ?"
[23:08] Mikael Tarzenko "I refuse point blank." Mikael said, placing his cutlery upon his plate. "The Commonwealth's Soldiers will stay within the Commonwealth's command at all times. I may be aware of Guest right, but treachery is a old Currency."
[23:09] Hayfa Rais: "Would that not imply that you could purchase with treachery? Though does treachery imply stealing?"
[23:09] Jennifer Langley: "That's not very generous of you. Sets a bad precedent don't you think?"
[23:10] Charles Cervya: "So we simply have a commonwealth general with all commonwealth troops, and should he die in battle they go home. Its easy sire, besides then they could witness the might of the commonwealth."
[23:10] Solene: "Also, don't forget if we are defeated by them, it's basically the end of free races."
[23:11] Mikael Tarzenko laughed. "The Dwarves may have been formidable, but the Commonwealth will be strong again soon enough. Once our old lands are firmly under our governance again, we will be able to provide an army capable of defeating even the Gods."
[23:13] Solene " Why losing ten times the amount of men by fighting separately, whe in a middle of an ally, you would fight more efficiently ?"
[23:13] Canard Kuroihane will make a point to check out those books, but he doesn't really know what to say about his lord's stance on the treaty.
[23:13] Charles Cervya: "Sire, such arrogance is beneath you. Lord Canard, has lord Mikael been sipping to much wine?"
[23:14] Mikael Tarzenko has been sipping a little too long he is prepared to admit. "We will however support the mutual defence treaties."
[23:14] Canard Kuroihane: "Etto...I cannot profess to be exceptionally well learned in alliances and the like, but surely there is something we can do to help?"
[23:15] Canard Kuroihane types too slow.
[23:15] Ulhan Blackflame: "Its the first day of the spring season young lady. And you will all remember such arrogance brought a king to create the Queen of ash, lord Mikael."
[23:15] Asharia Crimsonbloom covers her amusement in a napkin. "As long as we recognize the mutual threat, I am sure we'll be fine."
[23:16] Jennifer Langley smiles a small, amused smile, and resumes eating, waiting to see how the discussion turns.
[23:19] Solene " Hereby, the gathered lords an ladies, of the Summit of the first day of the spring season, Year 89 000, hosted by Lady Ulhan Blackflame, declare.

That in case of Dwarf activities evidence, they would immediately send messages to the other members of the summit to warn them.

That in case of Dwarf attack, on any of them, they would stop current hostilities between them, and send support to the attacked one in order to defeat the dwarves.

May offer ten soldiers each, to create a watching unit in the mountains, to watch dwarf activities."
[23:19] Solene "Do I forget anything ?"
[23:20] Ulhan Blackflame: "Yes, that if you happen to be overrun by a dwarf, to kill any who are to weak to escape and burn any bodies before running and crying like a little girl."
[23:21] Mikael Tarzenko raises an eyebrow at Ulhan's choice of words.
[23:21] Solene "I refuse to do that. We protect the weaks, not kill them."
[23:22] Jennifer Langley: "If you can't protect them, then you'd be doing them a mercy to kill them."
[23:22] Hayfa Rais stared with brows furrowed at Ulhan. "Yes... Like a little girl...."
[23:22] Mikael Tarzenko "Duchess, would you kill a Lamed Horse?" Mikael inquired lightly.
[23:23] Ulhan Blackflame shrugs before clapping a few times, causing the Blackflame women attending to start pulling the food away to instead replace it with freshly baked sweets and candies of all shapes and sizes. "Now now, don't take offense at my words, we all know little boys can't run in a straight line to save their lives, they always end up swerving and making a game out of it~"
[23:23] Solene " A human is not a horse. This is irrelevant."
[23:24] Canard Kuroihane: "Duchess, isn't that a bit...excessive? I cannot agree with such a sentiment."
[23:24] Canard Kuroihane: "If you'll forgive my rudeness..."
[23:24] Solene "What do you mean, not killing innocent is excessive ?" She frowned not really getting what he meant.
[23:25] Mikael Tarzenko "Then why would you refuse the gift of mercy to a Human that has been tortured to beyond the brink of Sanity, his body twisted and Mangled by fell sorceries?" Mikael asked reaching for the brandy bottle.
[23:25] Charles Cervya: "From the sounds of it, a horse and human are just things waiting for a dwarf to...Enhance them. Its like the tale of zombies, its better to kill the infected then let them reanimate and infect even more. Except of shambling corpses you get sword arms."
[23:26] Charles Cervya: "Though sword arms does sound interesting...Sire I am done drinking for the night."
[23:26] Solene "I agree with killing someone already transformed, not to slay my own people before they are."
[23:27] Gracella Margeth helps herself to a sweet roll and munches happily.
[23:27] Mikael Tarzenko "It is called Scorched Earth Solene. You must burn the land ahead of an invading army, leave nothing for them to use behind. This has to include your people in this case." Mikael said, pouring himself brandy, and brandy for his two underlings.
[23:28] Canard Kuroihane: "It was not in response to you. In fact," he says to Solene, "I think we're of the same philosophy here. I don't want to kill innocent people simply because they are not strong enough to flee. But...is it...truly necessary?"
[23:28] Canard Kuroihane takes the c up, but doesn't drink just yet. He's never really been a drinker but this seems like a good time to start
[23:29] Mikael Tarzenko "Believe me Lord Kuroihane, and remind me loan you those books once we return, in this case. Yes. It would be." Mikael said, sipping.
[23:30] Canard Kuroihane: "..."
[23:30] Ulhan Blackflame: "If the Dwarves can turn goblin children into man slaying monsters, imagine what they could do to a begger or a man with a limp."
[23:31] Gracella Margeth: "I'm hearing a lot about dwarves. Are we just going to ignore the orcs and raiders? It seems we glossed over their existence."
[23:31] Canard Kuroihane: "...She has a p oint..."
[23:31] Ulhan Blackflame: "Well the Orcs are less of a threat, they take slaves sure, but their slaves are beaten or eaten, not transformed into hulking monsters."
[23:32] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "Or raped."
[23:32] Gracella Margeth: "I understand we all like to pretend to be experts on dwarves, but the orcs are the ones knocking on our doorsteps at this moment."
[23:32] Mikael Tarzenko shrugged as he placed the glass on the table. "Madame Margeth, bandits are nothing new, they where usually a problem only on the fringes of the Commonwealth." He said lightly. "They are of little concern."
[23:32] Solene Simply replied. "Burnland is an extreme measure, and is not necessarily a good thing. By the way, in case of invasion, at the first sight of defeat, I will prepare a fleet to send the weak ones away, is that fine by you ? Each one has to make sure his people doesn't fall in the dwarves end, each one chose how, are you ok with this ?"
[23:33] Ulhan Blackflame: "There are about ten warbands that are forming, I suspect only three will actually survive their creation and infighting. Of the bandits, there were some centaur clans, I am sure Cervya would know nothing of that?"
[23:33] Solene: "We shall be able to deal each with orcs without too much need of Alliance, I think."
[23:33] Gracella Margeth: "and the dwarves have yet to make an attack or a movement. You're all so tied up with the dwarves that you're ignoring the creatures that threaten us at this moment."
[23:34] Veilcov rose an eyebrow to Ulhan, his drinking glass clasped in his hands. He shook his head, taking another drink of wine. "No, of course not. Cervya does not associate themselves with centaurs. Why would we?"
[23:35] Solene: "Well, lady Gracella, I offer you to resolve that first point on dwarves, and then to discuss orcs, is that fine for you ?"
[23:36] Ulhan Blackflame: "Well a few were chanting about the Horse lord king and his betrayal of a united horde. Other then that, Black sails have been sighted around the smaller, desolate islands setting up raiding camps I think. I'll need to get closer to see if thats true or not."
[23:37] Gracella Margeth takes a bite of her roll, chews thoughtfully and swallows. "I care not how this meeting goes. I was merely making an observation. I'm no warmaker. If these people say the orcs are nothing to worry about then we'll see orc corpses impaled upon our outposts before long."
[23:38] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "It is never wise to underestimate a willing enemy, regardless."
[23:38] Veilcov: "You assume that Cervya is something far more than it could be. We are but pople, reclaiming what was rightfully ours, and never have we intended to do more than that. I assure you, we shall assist in the hunting of this 'centaur clan' if it would put your mind at rest, Matron Blackflame."
[23:38] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "It's perfectly possible to monitor the situation independently and share information as we see fit."
[23:39] Solene " Hereby, the gathered lords an ladies, of the Summit, hosted by Lady Ulhan Blackflame, declare.

That in case of Dwarf activities evidence, they would immediately send messages to the other members of the summit to warn them.

That in case of Dwarf attack, on any of them, they would stop current hostilities between them, and send support to the attacked one in order to defeat the dwarves.

May offer ten soldiers each, to create a watching unit in the mountains, to watch dwarf activities.

In case a land was about to be defeated, I would do the necessary to make sure my people's body doesn't fall into their hand, in the way of my choice." Solene signed, and asked, if you lords and lady would care to sign this, we could then continue with the other threats.
[23:40] Jennifer Langley looks over the agreement. "This seems acceptable to me. Does anyone have anything to add before I sign it?"
[23:41] Veilcov: "What would be justified by a breech of contract?"
[23:41] Veilcov: "Surely we shall not abide by it simply for the fact that our name is on a piece of paper."
[23:42] Gracella Margeth: "You'll abide by it because if you do not, we're all damned."
[23:42] Mikael Tarzenko "I refuse to sign anything until my small army of Lawyers have a chance to overlook it." Mikael turns to Veilcov. "I would suspect the death of their Civilisation, either from the Dwarves, or a procession of Angry Nations."
[23:43] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "I'm wary of being asked to sign something that merely requires common sense." The elf says, mopping her lips with the napkin before taking up a bit of meat. "Call it a trader's paranoia, but I rather think we can act in mutual interest without some binding that no one can enforce."
[23:44] Mikael Tarzenko "I am in agreement with Madame Crimsonbloom." Mikael said nodding.
[23:44] Gracella Margeth: "[sub] and now we wait for the backstabbing[/sub]"
[23:44] Veilcov: "Yes... Well I suppose we should send notification to the fellow nations on the subject." He said, gesturing to the spot on the table in front of him. "Allow me to sign it."
[23:44] Charles Cervya: "Sire, do we really need lawyers to look over a document that has less words in it then the amount of hearts I break daily?" Charles says jokingly before biting into a slice of delicious pie.
[23:44] Solene "An official engagement has value. If you break a treaty, no one can trust your word anymore."
[23:45] Solene Gives the paper to Veilcov
[23:46] Veilcov takes the quill from his granddaughter, and signs upon the contract, taking up easily a fourth of the signing area.
[23:46] Veilcov proceeds to pass it back to Solene.
[23:46] Jennifer Langley: "I will also sign it."
[23:46] Mikael Tarzenko reaches over the table to take the paper in a huff, his signature and his titles taking up another Fourth.
[23:47] Veilcov waits the allowed ten minutes for Mikael to sign all his titles.
[23:47] Gracella Margeth looks at the paper, then up to her wife. She knew there was merit in neglecting to sign it, and so she said nothing. "Let's all work with one another then. We'll put aside our squabbling until we're all safe."
[23:48] Jennifer Langley takes the paper after Mikael is done, and signs her name, before passing it back to Solene.
[23:49] Ulhan Blackflame: "Well, now I know if I want the commonwealth to do anything, tell them I'll just talk to lord Veilcov if they don't have the time for it."
[23:49] Mikael Tarzenko has developed very fast handwriting for this exact reason. [sub]Only takes five minutes now.[/sub]
[23:50] Veilcov shrugs, "Why would you go to them, and not simply go to Cemia first?"
[23:52] Mikael Tarzenko "Presumably because they'd prefer their business to be conducted without involving Darker Powers."
[23:52] Asharia Crimsonbloom just snickers slightly. "So, perhaps we can discuss something else, mm? It has been quite a while since the original fall of Cemia, my apologies to Veilcov for bringing it up."
[23:53] Ulhan Blackflame: "Because I might have already set you on a bounty for angry undead and need them to deal with bandits in a nearby province."
[23:53] Solene Takes back the  paper, and look at Asharia. "So your reason for not signing is that itmay enforce you to do what you claim you would do anyway ?"
[23:53] Veilcov trailed his eyes from Mikael, to Charles, shaking his head. "I believe it is too late to escape darker powers on both sides, Mikael."
[23:55] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "My reason for not signing, lady Solene, is that it insults me to make my support legally binding. A good trader never trades corpse starch for gold. I will assist my fellow rulers because I wish to, not because I must. Do you see?"
[23:56] Solene "This is not really legal, it's rather like engaging it's honor."
[23:57] Solene: "But if you say so, I won't force you to sign."
[23:58] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "My honor is given in my word. Written documents have a certain significance for my people. Merely trust me to be faithful."
[23:58] Hayfa Rais huffed in her seat, frustrated at the elven lord as she piped up "Asharia wishes to avoid obligation, yet feels obligated regardless. She intends to help onmly if it for the good of her own people, and not the whole. I do hope you all realize this!"
[00:00] Ulhan Blackflame: "This document is in the end simply words. Elves have always been truthful and honorable. To claim she is dodging obligation is an insult to her and her race."
[00:00] Gracella Margeth looks over to Hayfa. "Those are some very, very serious allegations. I'd recommend you take a moment to collect your thoughts." she says calmly. "Written agreements hold no more power, strictly speaking, than the spoken word."
[00:01] Hayfa Rais: "Basing future prospects on the actions of a race is like saying that all horses shall run faster than the dog, if only for the fact that it is a horse. You must realize that not everything is the same in the world, and that especially leaders are particularly subject to oddity in this world."
[00:02] Asharia Crimsonbloom eyes Hayfa closely, those keen orange eyes boring right into her. "Heh. If you are insulting me so deeply, pass the paper to me. Or simply trust me not to betray the people I rely on, and I will forget what you said."
[00:02] Solene Solene nodded. "I wish everyone just calmed down a bit. I appologize, I shouldn't have insisted, sorry for bringing a bad mood over here. I have faith in all of you lords and ladies, and thank you for taking engagements in saving this world."
[00:04] Asharia Crimsonbloom adjusts the collar of her tunic, looking down and smiling. "No, no. I shouldn't be hot blooded. I am far too old for it. Pass the paper to me."
[00:06] Solene Gives the paper to the elf with a bit of surprise, but feeling joy and feeling thankful.
[00:06] Hayfa Rais slowly turns her head back to her papers. "I apologize Lady Crimsonbloom. Such things must be pointed out for the progress of all beings. Businesses only make good allies in writing."
[00:06] Ulhan Blackflame claps as everything seems to calm down. "Well now, seems we can work together...Oh that reminds me, the crown of Deamos recently was broken into pieces and stolen. If you all find the pieces of it I would gladly pay for them."
[00:06] Hayfa Rais raises her hand once more.
[00:07] Gracella Margeth looks to Ulhan once again. "I was known to be a good th... Finder of goods in my prime. I'd be happy to assist you."
[00:07] Ulhan Blackflame: "Yes young Lamia? You are so full of questions. Its so wonderful to see such an inquisitive lady."
[00:07] Asharia Crimsonbloom nods, reaching for a scribe's utensil. She signs the document swiftly, taking up far less room despite her absurdly long name than the resident Hancock. "Done. The crown, you say?"
[00:08] Hayfa Rais: "What exactly does the crown do... And what can one do if they have it?"
[00:11] Asharia Crimsonbloom also has a scribe copy the document down. It doesn't take long, especially for the very talented young fellow she brought with her.
[00:11] Ulhan Blackflame: "Well you all remember the arrogant King and his Queen of Ash? It increases the hidden power in humans, transforming them into monsters, be it elemental or primordial. It like many other powerful artifacts I keep should be locked away. Originally it was the horned crown of Deamos, guardian of the world's forest. The Great hero defeated the creature and took his crown as a trophy. If you do try to wear it, let it be know that you will most likely lose control and become a thrall to the crown, with death being the only release."
[00:12] Hayfa Rais: "Yes, but does it work on Lamias?"
[00:12] Solene Nods as Asharia makes a copy, thinking it's a good idea.
[00:13] Gracella Margeth: "is it truly worth it to find out. miss Rais?"
[00:14] Ulhan Blackflame: "I warn any from wearing the crown. Its power is intoxicating and overwhelming. Do remember that the last time someone wore it the world caught on fire and the seas became lava."
[00:15] Asharia Crimsonbloom: "Ooh, that's not a game I want to play...still. I assume you'll pay in pieces, eh?"
[00:15] Solene "Indeed it would be unfortunate... I will bring the fragments to you if I find them." She simply said.
[00:15] Hayfa Rais slowly narrowed her eyes, shaking her head after a moment. "No... I suppose it's not worth finding out."
[00:17] Ulhan Blackflame: "For each piece found I will give a bounty, same as any other quest I assign. I'll also give a prize to whoever finds who contracted the thief and brings them to me. I know it was no lord here, or that accepted my invitation."
[00:18] Gracella Margeth: "Alive or dead?" she asks simply.
[00:18] Jennifer Langley drums her fingers on the table. "So, is there any other business that requires discussion?"
[00:19] Ulhan Blackflame: "Alive, I want to know how and who told him I had the crown and where to send someone to find it. The Thief has already been dealt with."
[00:19] Gracella Margeth nods her head. "I'll keep an ear out. "
[00:23] Ulhan Blackflame: "I believe this is all. If anyone wishes to retire, the Blackflame village is just down the hall, one of my grand daughters will escort you to a room and if needed can provide other comforts, such as a back massage or foot rub. Don't expect anything more then that though unless they offer it."
[00:24] Hayfa Rais raises her hand once more.
[00:25] Ulhan Blackflame: "Once more to the Lamia. Ask away."
[00:25] Hayfa Rais: "Why do you have so many granddaughters?"
[00:26] Ulhan Blackflame: "Well when you live as long as I do, you meet plenty of men, and then you have babies, those babies grow up, and then they have babies."
[00:27] Jennifer Langley smiles at the exchange as she stands up. "I believe I will retire for the night. My thanks for the feast, and the discussion."
[00:27] Ulhan Blackflame: "I have a picture book to explain all of this if you want? I grant it to all the young girls in the village so there are many copies."
[00:28] Asharia Crimsonbloom offers a wave to Jennifer. "Have a good evening."
[00:28] Hayfa Rais nods, starting to put away her papers, already she had a stack of them. "I would enjoy that, Matron Blackflame... Oh! Goodbye High Lord Langley!"
[00:28] Jennifer Langley waves back as she turns, and is escorted away to her room. "Likewise."
[00:29] Gracella Margeth stands from her sead and curtsies again. "Thank you again Madam Ulhan." the looks to Asharia. "Shall I be on my way then, dearest? I'm sure you have responsibilities to attend to around here, don't you?"
[00:31] Solene Solene also stood to make a curtsey. "Thank you Lady Blackflame for the banket and being our host, and thank you to you all for this efficient and lovely meeting." She said, as she prepared to join her nights and go back to her ships.
[00:31] Solene: knights *
[00:31] Asharia Crimsonbloom slips a hand over Gracella's back, and tugs her in close for a kiss. "Very well. I'll be along once everything is concluded."
[00:33] Gracella Margeth stands on her toes to give Ash a quick kiss on the lips. Nothing too overzealous. Not in public. She sinks back to her heels and   embraces her wife before approaching one of Ulhan's many granddaughters to escort her to a room, and instructing her to make sure Ash was brought to the same one if possible.