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Eslandola’s settlement of Fuerte Unido continues to grow. A windmill to grind grain into flour is now operational, and the miller is already busy. The windmill uses a tower mill design. The top rotates to position the wings so they face into the wind. That means coming out the door can be dangerous for the miller at times, and the wagon driver needs to be careful about where he parks his wagon. Here the miller’s helper loads sacks of flour onto the delivery wagon. Meanwhile, the neighbor’s sheep graze in the grass, watched by the neighbor’s boy. Some more pics: A medium factory for Fuerte Unido (and, yes, another windmill from me) and more fun with printed panels. All C&C welcome.

Guilder walked through the warehouse district. He had a lot on his mind this month; as Eslandola's Secretary of Trade, he was worried about how to protect its trade ships from piracy. Captain Argentum would lead the fleet to sea aboard the Lady Cora ... if it was ready in time. Just then an MCTC courier caught up with him in the street, "Hey, watch where yer goin'!" shouted one of the cargo handlers at the courier. "Sorry, sorry! Very sorry!" he replied. Then he turned to Guilder. "Sir, we've received that report you were waiting for: the Lady is ready to sail." "Ah, I knew Captain Argentum would have Lady Cora ready in time," replied Guilder. "Thank Sol and Luna!" The courier seemed puzzled. "Lady Cora? No sir, I have word about the Cotton Lady II. The sistership for that old cog we lost a few months back is finally ready." You see, Willem Guilder was also director of the Merchants Colonial Trading Company. There was work to be done for the trade company as well. --- A quick build to sistership the Cotton Lady. A couple of extra pics of the build: Seemed like a good excuse to use some of those printed wall panels. All C&C welcome. .

The new frigate's deck was as clean as it would ever be, and the crew went about their business getting the vessel ready for service in anticipation of the new captain's arrival. "Welcome aboard, captain!" There was no formal line-up of the crew, as time was of the essence in preparing La Raya Venenosa II to sail. "Mmpph..." replied the captain, and he immediately headed to his cabin. The lieutenant wasn't sure what to make of this. He hoped it meant the captain had things on his mind for their upcoming mission. --- Sorry I'm light on story. Just a quick build for sistershiping La Raya Venenosa. All C&C welcome.

The captain walked the gun deck, checking on the progress of the crew. Cannons were still be lowered from the weather deck and positioned. "Make sure all carriages are properly secured," he reminded them. "And properly equipped! Shells and water buckets should be in place." The deck bustled with activity as the cramped confines of the ship-of-the-line's gun deck filled. La Comete III, sistership to La Comete, and Deuxieme Comete after that, would be ready to sail this month. --- A small build for the purpose of sistershipping La Comete again. Here's a look at the full build: All C&C welcome.

As Salida Este continues to grow, the Eslandolan colonists recognize that the success of this settlement is due in large part to the combined efforts of the Halosians and the native islanders. The MCTC has strived to make sure they work with the natives to benefit all. As the MCTC has developed the island’s resources, using the island’s indigo plants to create dyes used in manufacturing textiles, native customs have been respected and the islanders, who were quick to pick up the mercantile ways of the newcomers, have acclimated themselves to Eslandian society and find themselves in roles throughout the booming economy. To show their respect for the native inhabitants of Ferro Azure, the MCTC has commissioned a statue of Sallah, a revered native leader from a century ago, and placed it atop a fountain. The fountain is located at something of a crossroads, a plaza shaded by trees, and people from all walks of life in Salida Este walk by it every day, whether for business or pleasure. Watching the people who pass by, one can see people from all parts of society in Salida Este. Here a couple of merchants—one native, one Eslandian—discuss a potential deal. An Eslandolan soldier in typical local attire slowly passes by atop his horse. An older native couple, both involved in management of the local textile factory, are out for a walk… …while a young native girl and Eslandolan boy share a special moment. A local artisan uses the fountain to explain to his son how a water pump works… …while his cat eyes a possible feast. Here’s another look at the full build: To be licensed as an art & culture property in Salida Este. I got the idea for this fountain a couple of months ago when I stumbled across the blue animal horns on bricklink, and I knew exactly how I wanted to use them. Sallah was originally going to be a merrynight figure, but I didn't get the build done in time for that storyline. All C&C welcome.

Eslandola's settlement on Maldria was growing, especially with the new brickmaker's kiln. But the men were getting tired of cutting all the lumber by hand, so they dammed off a stream so they could build a waterwheel to power a sawmill. The undershot waterwheel powers a saw to cut logs into planks. Some of the soldiers also discovered that the pond created by the small dam was a good fishing spot. The central part of the mill was built with field stones to support the waterwheel, but the storage shed was built of log construction. With both bricks and sawn lumber, more construction would be possible for the settlement of Interlagos. --- This build started out as an experiment with the roof joint, that failed miserably, as the above photo shows. The angle of the joint didn't neatly fit the angle of any wedge plates, and ultimately there's far too much of a gap, so selective photo angles were necessary. Also, only after I had started to disassemble the build did I realize it would have looked much better if I had tiled the upper part of the pond rather than using loose 1x1 round plates. Oh well, live and learn. Still, I was happy with the stone wall, and I got my first experience trying to build a small waterfall. Also, I didn't do an interior for this build. The roof supports didn't really allow for it, and I have done a sawmill interior before. I will try to get back to showing interiors on future builds. All C&C welcome.

*The "Cookie" in this story is no relation to Captain Cookie of @Captain Braunsfeld fame. My apologies for any confusion. -------------- The sailors and soldiers in Captain Janszen's expedition to the New Haven Sea had now spent weeks on Maldria as they built up Eslandola's initial settlement on the island. Up until now their building efforts had focused on foundational needs: fortifications, followed by a brick kiln, a blacksmith's forge, and a sawmill. It was time to establish some basic facilities for the men who were working here every day. And so, rather than assemble by open campfires or return to the ship galleys for meals, Janszen order the construction of a mess hall. Built from locally produced bricks and freshly cut timber, it was more refined than the previous open-air or log structures erected so far. The men quickly took pride in the new facility. Fish and fowl were plentiful on the island, providing far better meals than when they were at sea. When several barrels of grog were also moved from the ships to the mess hall, the men were soon treating it as a tavern, assembling there whenever they weren't working or sleeping. Various ship cooks took turns manning the cooking fires, but one known as "Cookie" was the men's favorite, and soon the mess hall was referred to as "Cookie's Place". The men loved Cookie, but Cookie wouldn't take any guff. When one soldier complained loudly to his sergeant that there was a funny smell to the food one day, Cookie threatened him with his cleaver! As it turns out, perhaps it wasn't the food that was the problem. --------------- This build was based on a simple drawing of a colonial structure I came across in a book, and it seemed like it could serve the purpose of a mess hall for the troops. All C&C welcome.

Naval cadets get more than classroom training. The boat house shelters several small craft that the cadets use for training purposes. Here a couple of cadets bring one of the boats out into the harbor. Teams of cadets compete against each other as they learn to maneuver their craft. The instructors fear they have much to teach the cadets. Once the cadets have mastered the small boats, they can graduate to slightly larger craft that require more skill. Some more views of the build: For the rest of Eslandola's Royal Naval Academy, Part I: Main Campus is here and Part II: Wading Pool is here. All C&C welcome.

Willem Guilder stood before the table and carefully spread open a group of maps on the table. The maps were well aged, and he handled them with care. “Gentlemen, a few months ago, Commodore Hammish Grei shared with me some very interesting maps that had come into the possession of the Crahaish neh Triuri.” “The Crahaish neh Triuri?” interrupted Philip Janszen, captain of the Far Horizon. “Yes, I know," replied Guilder immediately, before Janszen could continue. "Don’t get me started.” Guilder composed himself a bit as he regained his train of thought. “These maps are more than 250 years old, and they describe a group of islands surrounding a sea far to the east. After some time spent studying the maps, the Crahaish were able to identify Corrington’s Celestia and Oleon’s Ile d’Or on this map.” Guilder pointed to a corner of one of the maps, and the gathered men leaned in for a closer look. “When put together, these maps detail the islands around a large sea southeast of Ile d’Or, which we are calling the New Haven Sea, based on our best efforts to translate what text we can from these documents.” “Not all the maps are written in the same language,” noted Thaddeus Calvo, the somewhat well-known Eslandolan explorer. “If I’m interpreting the scale correctly,” interjected Captain Janszen, “some of those islands are far bigger than anything discovered in the Brick Seas to date.” “Astute observation, Captain,” replied Guilder. “You are reading the scale properly. There appear to be at least three islands far larger than anything Halosian explorers have discovered, and three others that rival the largest discoveries to date.” "What languages are these" asked Calvo, looking at a couple of the maps in particular. "I have had success translating other pieces of text similar to parts of these maps, languages similar to those encountered among natives in the Prio Seas, but none of the writing here appears to be an exact match." “The Crahaish neh Triuri have identified and translated parts of the text written in Cymgrii script," answered Guilder. "Ah, Cymgrii!" Calvo nodded, turning over in his mind what he knew of the language. Guilder continued: "The sea encompassed by this ring of islands appears to be described as fairly calm. With so many islands of such size, and a large navigable sea, you can see why it is imperative that we learn more about the area. It could contain unimagined resources. So,” Guider continued, “I propose that we send an exploration fleet to the New Haven Sea. Our first targets should be the group of three islands so near Celestia and Ile d’Or, directly to their east and southeast. Two of the islands are similar in size to Celestia, but the other is quite small. I suggest that we circumnavigate these three islands, discerning what we can about them and confirming the accuracy of these maps.” Janszen and Calvo nodded in agreement. “Then, we set exploration parties ashore on each and gather what information we can, but we keep it brief. After that, I’d like to see the fleet proceed to the two largest islands in the western half of the sea and conduct similar navigation and exploratory efforts.” “Governor, how many ships are you considering for this fleet?” asked Captain Janszen. "I have managed to put four ships at your disposal," replied Guilder. "What do you think of that?” "My disposal?" stuttered Janszen. "Yes, captain," replied Guilder with a grin, "at your disposal. Cornelius Reyngout always spoke highly of you, and you have performed admirably as you have worked your way up the ranks of the MCTC. But I suspect you have more to offer than merely being a good merchant captain. You will be overall commander of this expedition as well as the ultimate authority on the sea, but I would advise you to also lean on Calvo's expertise." Guilder then turned to Calvo. "You are to lead any forays onto the islands. I am depending on your experience. And I expect you will counsel young Janszen here capably as well." Janszen struggled to keep his emotions in check. “What ships?" he finally managed to ask. "You’d need at least one or two well-armed ships to protect the fleet, and I’d suggest having at least one smaller ship that could venture in closer to the islands without risking the larger ships on hidden shoals or such. And we'd need ample cargo space to bring back any discoveries and room for some troops.” "I think we have exactly that," replied Guilder. "You and Calvo are to go with all haste to Poorvintia, where you are to assume command of La Contessa de Victoria. Escorted by the Blood Diamond, you will proceed to Hojaroja, where you will rendezvous with the carrack Hidalga and the armed sloop Esmerelda and pick up a company of my troops there. From there, proceed to the northwestern islands of the New Haven Sea and begin your expedition." "La Contessa de Victoria?" stammered Janszen. "Yes, she is quite the ship, but you have earned it." "What about my first mate, Anthony Crol?" "He will take over as captain of the Far Horizon," replied Guilder. Janszen would miss sailing with his longtime friend, but knowing Crol would finally have his own command softened the blow. Guilder then pulled a key from his pocket. "You will also need the expedition treasury. I have a chest in the next room with 1500 DBs for your use. Here is the key. Don't spend it all in one place!" joked Guilder. Janszen laughed a hearty laugh, a needed break from thinking about what was ahead. "If you run into any problems on the expedition," Guilder continued, "Fatu Hiva and Jameston are both near, but do not discuss your mission with anybody there. If you find the need to return to friendlier confines, I will have someone in Fuerte Unido you can talk to." Pip Janszen took a deep breath. The next phase of his life had begun. He was ready for the challenge. --- Map of the New Haven Sea: .

In light of the recent news of Eslandola’s disastrous encounter with the Sea Rats (see the latest issue of the KPA ), the timing couldn’t be better for Eslandola’s Continental Council to announce the opening of a Royal Naval Academy on Salida Este. The building shown here contains both administrative offices and classrooms. High-ranking officials are on hand to tour the campus. Eslandola’s colors fly from the mast in the center of the quad. In addition to classroom studies, new cadets engage in physical training. Rear admiral Guzman inspects one of the cannons on display, longing for the smell of gunpowder mixed with sea air... A view from above: Part II: Wading pool Part III: Boat house All C&C welcome.

Settlement Name: Weelond Ownership: MCTC Location: An Holli Mayor: [new mayor coming soon!] - @Capt Wolf Size: Large City Who can own property in Weelond: Anyone, from any faction. Who can freebuild in Weelond: Anyone, from any faction. Fortifications: Two large forts. Troops: As of Dec. 6, 619, there are 300 men stationed here (270 locally raised troops, 10 Governor's Guard, 20 free local militia). More information about Weelond can be found in this post (soon). Check out the Weelond Index. Please post a link to any free-builds that take place in Weelond in this thread. If you want to license a piece of property in Weelond, post in this thread and fill out the web form.

Eslandola’s new settlement on Maldria continues to work toward self-sufficiency. With the brick-making factory established, the new bricks could be used to build the forge for a blacksmith. The quartermaster from one of the expedition’s ships discusses what they need. Workers take a wagon wheel around to the side of the shop. The blacksmith at his workbench. Working on a sword in the forge and at the anvil. ------- A blacksmith for the Eslandolan settlement of Interlagos on Maldria. All C&C welcome.

If the new Eslandolan settlement of Interlagos was going to grow, it needed a means of construction. The clay of the river banks and lake bed was well-suited for making bricks, so ballast bricks were taken from the expedition's ships to build a kiln. The clay from the river bank was set into wooden molds, then deposited on beds of sand for drying. Once thoroughly dry, the clay bricks were baked in the kiln for a week. The fire had to be tended constantly. Once cooled, the bricks were stacked and sorted, as some might be under-fired and other might be over-fired clinkers. Thus the settlement’s first industry was established: a brick-making factory. Now brick buildings in Interlagos can be built easily. ----------- A horribly over-simplified explanation and depiction of brick-making in colonial times, with some steps omitted for ease of building the MOC, but I am happy with how it turned out. All C&C welcome.

While one half of Eslandola's New Haven Sea expedition was establishing a base on Maldria, the other half of the expedition has returned to island #1 to establish a trading post. The trading post is the first property in the new settlement of Chiquita. It will serve as a focal point for harvesting bananas and breadfruit, and for continuing to develop the friendly relationship with the island's blind, tree-dwelling natives. Wait, what was that? Did you see something? Never mind. There's nothing here. The settlers might need some time to adjust to how the natives get around. ----- This MOC first appeared in my AMRCA thread, but I re-posted it here for licensing purposes, and it also allowed me to include more pictures. All C&C welcome.

After months of exploring islands in the New Haven Sea, Eslandola’s expedition finally set foot on the island of Maldria. Initial exploration had identified a prime location for a settlement on the north side of the island, and preparations for a base for further exploration of the island were begun. Now, after much hard work by the ship crews and troops that made up the human capital of the expedition, a permanent base was established. Even though the fort was done, work crews continued on other tasks, as a dock and other infrastructure was needed for the new settlement. Ship gun crews and troop leaders worked to make sure the fort’s armament was ready. Outside the fort, musketeers patrolled the perimeter, as the island was still a great unknown. Inside the fort, expedition leader Philip “Pip” Janszen discussed matters with somewhat-renowned explorer Thaddeus Calvo. Pip’s protestations aside, Calvo informed Pip that the men had already named the fort after their expedition leader. It was Fort Janszen. He was stuck with it. ---------------------- This is a part of my ongoing AMRCA exploring the New Haven Sea, but I’ve posted it separately for licensing purposes. All C&C welcome.

The cavalry trainees are on the obstacle course, leading their charges over the low rail and practicing their cutlass skills by slicing pineapples. A small build for licensing a battalion of cavalry in Weelond.

Settlement Name: Chiquita Ownership: MCTC Location: New Haven Sea, Island #1 Mayor: TBD Size: Hamlet Who can own property in Chiquita: Anyone, from any faction. Who can freebuild in Chiquita: Anyone, from any faction. Fortifications: none. Troops: As of Nov. 5, 619, one company (30 men) of MCTC troops. Please post a link to any free-builds that take place in Chiquita in this thread. Island map:

Word skittered through Fuerte Unido that an adventure opportunity was on hand. Willem Guilder, director of the Merchants Colonial Trading Company, had been meeting with two ship captains that had reportedly returned from the New Haven Sea. Now the call had gone out for volunteers to join the MCTC militia as an expedition was forming. Militias tend to get a bad reputation for being of lesser quality than faction troops. As fighting men, the Eslandian militias can stand with anyone. But, if you're looking for rows of men in gleaming green uniforms marching in unison through the town square, then you've come to the wrong place. The men that assembled on the quay, ready to embark on adventure, were an unorganized assortment. Some were experienced veterans, others were new recruits; some wore helmets, others wore hats; some had full gear, some had barely a musket; some focused on the task at hand, while others were more concerned with the lovely ladies of Fuerte Unido. Sergeant de la Rosa was amazed that one of his new recruits didn't fall backwards into the bay! But he finally got their attention and somewhat organized. He would have his work cut out for him. when they reached their destination. A couple more views of the scene: -------------- OOC: A small (and quick) build for the purpose of raising a company of troops in Fuerte Unido, destined for a new settlement in the New Haven Sea. All C&C welcome.

The campaigns for Eslandola’s second Colonial Council have concluded, and the council’s business will be conducted in public in this thread, unless national security merits private deliberations. Eslandola’s Admius Legistrad, the leader of the Colonial Council, is Willem Guilder, Eslandola Secretary of Trade, Governor of An Holli, and Director of the MCTC; The delegations representing the colonial regions and the trade companies are made up of three representatives each. The East Trade-Wind Company is represented by @Garmadon : Agent Gilles Guelds Lieutenant Horatio Hillsboroughbergmachier, retired of the ETWC Elites Willoughby The Merchant’s Colonial Trading Company is represented by @Kai NRG : Captain Edward Argentum Esterhazy de Troir Chef Jalape The MAESTRO Trade Company is represented by @Legostone: Jerome Monezterrell, Eslandola Secretary of the Navy, Governor of Isla de Victoria, and Mayor of Fuerto Unido; Captain Lamar Evercrees of the Santiago; and Farrucio Paraja, naval architect extraordinaire The Independent traders of Eslandola are represented by @gedren_y: Commodore Hammish Grei Lady Valentia Cantoni Viscount Alexander Doblin The Sea of Storms Region (An Toli, An Holli) is represented by @Capt Wolf: Willem Guilder, Eslandola Secretary of Trade, Governor of An Holli, and Director of the MCTC; Aaron van der Meede, attorney and chairman of the Weelond town council; and Pieter Reyngout, tavern owner and Weelong town council member. The Sea of Thieves Region (Nelissa, Berreli, Ferro Azure, Torrach Bonn, Isla Philippe) is represented by @Umbra-Manis: Revon de Crocodil, mayor of Salida Este Captain Reginald Haddock, retired pirate hunter Councilor Hadelson, jewel merchant The Prio Seas Region (Isla de la Victoria, Otoño, La Sombra) is represented by @Faladrin: Lady Condora, officer of the MAESTRO Green Messenger Agency Chief Apulo, of the Mehuãtajir people, and mayor of Mehit Doctor Ayuda of Fuerte Unido The Second Cycle of the Colonial Council of Eslandola is in session.

The Royal Fishery of Elysabethtown In order to help the Eslandian funds, Felipe de la Manzana ordered, before his departure on the chase of the mythical golden apple, to start building some quays and develop a little island just near the entrance of the bay of Elysabethtown. Those quays, once built, became a good place to settle some fishing spots as the waters are particularly rich in this area. So, finally, it is an all industrious little island that thrived here and the old quays and the initial fort became rapidly warehouses full of dryed and salted fish ready to be exported to the rest of the colonies. It is now frequent to see fishing boats all around the little island and sometimes bigger ships are sailing to the island to deliver goods to the fishermen in exchange of their cured fish. It is possible in rare occasions that whales and other cetaceous creatures cruise by, so it is common to see whale meat and fat sailed back to the old continent from here... Here we can see a new arrival of fresh fish : And here is the entrance of the salting house, where the fish is prepared to be salted and then stored away. Here, is the drying house; where the fish is dryed and ready to be cargoed on ships that can directly board at the house. From here, we can see the storing house, an old military facility, now dedicated to the storage of crates of dryed and salted fish. Some soldiers are still here but not really needed anymore. So they are progressively moving away the weapons to leave the space to the fishing activities. The old access to the island and the initial quays were under the cliff and very well protected. Now it is just another good fishing spot. Some other views : This build took me a while... And some of you could recognize the pirate island I exposed in Antwerpen. It was my main objective to build alone and by myself a big island at the Royal dimensions. There it is ! It can be licensed by Eslandola as a Royal Artisan in Elysabethtown. @Capt Wolf you can license it for Eslandola if you want. I cannot license it for myself.

The Golden Bugle Freshly out of the MAESTRO Shipyards, The Golden Bugle is doing its Maiden course. The light fast vessel has proven to be very well seaworthing and can achieve fast travels through the Colonies in order to bring cargo and of course news ! It was clear its first purpose was to deliver official mail towards the colonies like Lady Condora wanted initially. This ship will be added to my fleet and I intend to license it as a class 3 vessel. I wanted it ready for the last contest but I didn't managed to finish it at time, so I'm keeping it for my fleet. C&C's are always welcome.

The people of northern Halos are accustomed to seeing windmills of various types across the continent and in their island colonies. But many have not seen the type built by the natives of Ferro Azure. Instead of the familiar blades spinning on a horizontal axis, which use gears to transfer the rotational power to a vertical shaft, the windmills built by these island people use paddles to catch the wind attached directly to the vertical shaft. Walls around the paddles help channel the wind so that it only hits on one side of the axis. Otherwise, they would work against themselves and would not spin. The mill seen here, near Eslandola's colonial settlement of Salida Este, shows wear from years of use. The bright yellow paint is worn away in places, and some of the indigo plants that grow naturally on the island can be seen around the paths. Here the miller's wife greets one of her friends, whose son carries a basket of grain on his head. The miller will grind flour for many families, and store the final product in barrels and sacks under the steps on the side of the mill. Here one his helpers is storing a new barrel. A customer has come to pick up his sack of flour. He looks upset, but it is only because his son did not come to help him retrieve it. Some more pics of the build: To be licensed as a medium factory. --- I had been looking for a different kind of windmill to build and discovered this design. My build would have been better if the paddles were more delicate, made of reeds or such instead of planks, but I'm still happy with how it came out. All C&C welcome.

Hello Eslandolans, before even introducing my main character, I wanted to give a present to all the other factions. For you I have this little boat I built today. Even though I couldn't implement all the techniques and style decisions I had envisioned, because I ran out of the necessary bricks, I'm glad, I worked it out, without having to order new ones. The hull could have been a bit smoother, but I wasn't in the mood to destroy my first ship's long boat. Gladfully the lego football stadium came with a lot of green tiles. So after all these years, it finally was worth it:) The red touch was also a lucky accident, but it fits the coulour scheme well I think. And finally a ship I managed to use the official Lego ropes on. I intended this vessel to be a local fisherman's ship. Honestly, I'm new to these kind of games and therefore don't know, how to do it in the right manner, so you can benefit the best way possible. You as the faction can determine the usage and the best location for this vessel. If there are any problems rule-wise, consider it as a freebuild, that adds more feeling to the world. As for the storytelling part, I'm planning to include it in future posts, tight now, it's just a little raw. Greetings, Wellesley!

Willem Guilder had been in King’s Harbour just two months ago at Corrington’s “Great Ball of Terra Nova.” Now he had returned to talk to his old friend and political colleague, Román Fontonajo. In Fontonajo’s retirement, he had built a lovely house on Cocovia and settled down to enjoy a quieter life, away from politics. Guilder hated that he must ask Román to disturb his peaceful life and return to the political arena, but hoped that Román would embrace the opportunity. Guilder was greeted at the door by Román’s wife, Clarissa, and she led him into the study of their house in King’s Harbour. “Román,” Clarissa Fontonajo shouted through the house. “It’s Admius Legistrad, Master Guilder.” Román went down the stairs. “You should feel free to call him Willem, my dear,” he said. Turning to Guilder, “Welcome, old friend. Come in. Mind if I prepare something to drink for us?” asked Román, and he started walking toward the kitchen. “Yes, please, call me Willem,” said Guilder to Clarissa. “No need for formalities. And thank you, Román; a drink sounds good about now.” Guilder followed Román into the kitchen. “Juice? Wine? A tea? Or just some water?” Román asked. “Tea would be wonderful.” Guilder rubbed his leg above his peg leg. “I’m getting more used to this, but it serves as a constant reminder of the war to me. Tea always reminds me of the rewards of exploration and trade.” “Tea ... Have you ever traded it at larger scale?” Román asked while he started boiling some water. “I haven’t,” Guilder said with a bit of a sigh. “Cotton and indigo, plenty. I must redouble my efforts regarding the indigo we found on Ferro Azure. But with so many varieties of plants on every island we go to, there must be some plant out there with leaves perfect for a new type of tea” he continued wistfully. “I guess we haven’t found it yet, either ... But you are quite right about the sheer quantity of newly discovered islands. When two years ago all we could think about is colonizing and claiming the next island, and then the next after that, today we struggle to properly colonize all those we already own. I feel our collaborative efforts have become rather lackluster. But who am I to blame? I guess that’s not much of my business, anymore. Today I hardly do more than brewing tea. And look, the water is boiling. Which one? I will take my favorite Nellisan Herb Mix -- always feels like home to me.” “I will take the same, thank you. Perhaps I can share your feeling of ‘home’.” Guilder paused briefly, then continued. “And even in your retirement, if that’s the proper thing to call it, our collective efforts will always be your business. You are one of the major architects of colonial Eslandola. You are dearly missed in the council, I assure you, but I think I understand why you stepped away. You and your lovely Clarissa are blessed with a large family and each other; I am a man married to my work by happenstance as much as choice.” “And the Sweet Bardo Peach for Clarissa. Now come, let’s head to my study and have a seat.” Román said, as they walked towards the next room where Clarissa was already sitting and waiting. “And you are right -- marriage is a blessing to me. Just last night we talked about the nothing I would be without Clarissa. And I’d even claim that our colonies would not be what they are, if it wasn’t for her. But I guess you are not here to talk about the love we have found in life, have you?” “No, I have not. You know me well.” Guilder settled into a chair and propped up his pegleg. “I have come to ask a favor -- a favor that will pull you back into political affairs for a bit, but not for too long.” “A bit and not too long ... it doesn’t really sound like you know what this favor will be exactly, do you?” Guilder laughed. “This is exactly why I am asking this favor of you. You are much better at the language of diplomacy than I am.” Román thought for a second before he replied: “I have always felt more like a selfish tactician, with my own hidden agenda ...” “But isn’t that exactly what Willem just said?” Clarissa interjected with a broad smile on her face. Guilder laughed again with a broad grin. “Clarissa, you understand the game well!” Guilder composed himself, then faced her husband again. “Román, I’ll get straight to the point. War is hard, and sometimes keeping the peace is just as hard or harder. We’ve allowed ourselves to relax too much in the aftermath of the war. Oleon is actively courting Mardier and has sent a delegation to Terraversa as well. There are military rumblings from Oleon, and though I discount them for the most part, they remind us that we have work to do. Terraversa, newly independent, is a young nation finding its way. We both fought against Mardier, and now we need to solidify our relationship going forward. We need to make a gesture to Terraversa, and to all the nations of the Brick Seas, to show our recognition ... and support ... of Terraversa’s independence. So, we need someone to go to Kings Port and carry that word to Archduke Oldis. That someone must show everyone how important this is to us. I could think of no one better than you.” “Terraversa ... I’ve always had mixed feelings about their location. The less attractive Terraversa becomes as a halt on a ship’s journey between the worlds, the more likely every single ship is to stop at our most beloved Eslandolan town on the eastern coast of Nellisa. Which is, of course, in my favor more than in anyone else’s. So I assume I wouldn’t benefit much from acknowledging Terraversan independence, would I?” After a quick pause Román continued. “But surely we are not here to discuss the impacts of national politics on my very personal wellbeing. And I surely see some reason behind pursuing an alliance with Oldis. Which brings me to the core of my question: Who are we actually trying to become friends with?” “There is no doubt that Nova Terreli and Nellisa have surpassed Kings Port and Terraversa in importance on the trade routes. But Terraversa is still a strategic location. In the hands of an ally, it can assure that trade continues to flow freely to Nellisa. Furthermore, I can imagine that cooperation between Terraversa and Neliisa could increase trade revenues for both. But in the hands of a foe, it can restrict trade. If Oleon’s RNTC were to gain favor, they might implement taxes selectively to influence trade away from Nova Terreli. And if Mardier were to regain control, we might find ourselves in an undeclared war at sea again. Guilder shifted in his chair as he watched Román turn things over in his head, but continued before Román could speak. “And you have identified the key issue, easily the most delicate: who are we trying to become friends with. Terraversa is a two-sided coin. Oldis is Archduke, but L’Olius essentially controls the navy and is quite popular among the citizenry. We must find a way to be friends with both.” “And so the unborn may do his first grand favor to our nation ...,” Fontonajo mumbled after some seconds of thought. “What was that?” asked Guilder. “Or her,” Clarissa answered in Román's stead. “We are going to be grandparents soon, you know?” She had a dreamy smile on her face. “Oh! I had no idea. Congratulations! Which of your children is expecting?” “Joaquin,” said Román. “With his wonderful fiancee, Poca from Berreli. You get my point?” “I’m not sure,” replied Guilder, puzzling it over. “Other than that keeping the peace is bigger than one island or one nation, or one people, and there is more to it than personal considerations ...” “I guess L’Olius might be more open to the arguments of someone who has crossed the boundaries of races, just like his ancestors did, don’t you think?” “Ah! Of course! I forgot about L’Olius’s Atwi heritage. I can see you’re already developing a plan. Tell me more.” “We should definitely go together. That is: Joaquin, Poca, their baby, Clarissa, and myself. And split up in Terraversa, so that Joaquin can talk to L’Olius -- they are both brave men, seafarer and adventurers, after all -- while Clarissa and myself talk to Oldis. There is no way around winning both, and for now they surely do want the same thing: preserve Terraversan independence. We can aid them in this regard, we are the strong ally here -- and we can negotiate from our position of strength. So our goal is an official military alliance?” “An excellent approach to L’Olius! Your sense of family has always been a strength of yours. ... As for our goal -- goals, actually -- I wish a simple, straight-forward answer was possible. We want to limit any influence Oleon might gain in their talks, at a minimum maintaining the status quo militarily and in trade. We also want to do what we can to make sure Mardier doesn’t return. So how to achieve these goals? Personally, I favor a military defensive pact, and there are others who favor this as well. Of course, any treaty we negotiate will have to be ratified by the council, and there will be opposition -- some fear being drawn into another conflict. You know how the council can be. But I believe there is enough support to approve a defensive pact, and I think that is the surest way to prevent Mardier’s return. There is also support for a trade agreement of some sort, and while what form that would take is less clear, it would probably be easier to get approved. So you have great latitude on where to take things. While I obviously hope for more, even if we just come out of this with improved relations with Oldis and L’Olius, that will be something. Certainly see where they want to take the conversation and take our cues from that.” “And surely we will officially acknowledge them as an independent nation of their own?” “Yes, I have here a statement approved jointly by the Colonial Council and the Continental Council, signed by King Fernando! I was worried it might be difficult to get Fernando’s signature, but once it was explained to him that it would be like throwing night caps at Oleon’s King Philip, he was all for it.” “I hope it has your signature as well? And best those of all Council Members? Fernando’s name may not mean too much to successful revolutionaries, such as Oldis or L’Olius, who have triumphantly unbound from the chains of traditional Continental nations -- while I am rather sure your word or Román’s will,” Clarissa stated. “It does, indeed, Clarissa. I have signed, as have all the members of the council. But the king’s signature is significant. It shows no ambiguity in our stance on their independence. And a king recognizing the rights of such revolutionaries sends a powerful signal to the noble houses of Mardier and Oleon.” “Yet still we have a tough task ahead of ourselves,” Román said. “Oldis is said to be a relentless negotiation counterpart. Shouldn’t we be bringing some gift?” “Do you have something in mind?” “I have heard tigers make for wonderful pets.” “Seriously?” replied Guilder, a bit startled. “I must admit that hadn’t occurred to me.” “If it were you I’d make sure to get you one, because I know you could handle the beast. I guess it might work for L’Olius as well. But Oldis? Not so sure, the tiger might decide to just eat him, and that would be it for our negotiations. What about some fine clothes instead? And maybe Maestro will contribute some apple cider?” Guilder let out a hearty laugh. “I could handle him only because he would take one taste of my pegleg and deem me inedible!” Guilder slapped his leg for emphasis, then worked to return himself to a serious manner. “I’m certain we can get some of Maestro’s fine cider, and I will trust your judgment on what gifts to take. If you need me to acquire anything, just say the word.” Guilder leaned forward a bit, in a slightly softer voice. “If you have a lead on a tiger, that may indeed be a fine gift for L’Olius. It is, however, quite important to make sure Oldis does not feel upstaged by anything we present to L’Olius.” “A good point. But it applies both ways. We will always have to give Oldis more than L’Olius to make sure we acknowledge his rule, but only so much more that L’Olius does not feel upstaged. What a nice word, Willem.” “Or we just bring entirely different and unique gifts to both of them ...,” Clarissa suggested. “I would not think we should give Oldis more, but rather the gifts to each must speak to what each values. Clarissa makes a good point that the gift or gifts to each of them should be unique. To that line of thinking, a tiger would speak to L’Olius’s military role, where fine clothes would speak to Oldis’s taste for the finer things. Or perhaps a fine Eslandian stallion for Oldis? An animal for each, but each representing different qualities and values.” “One of many hard things, certainly. But we will find a solution. Do you see any other obstacles in our way?” “Just communication at this point. We need to send word ahead to let them know you are coming. And simply assembling an appropriate squadron to carry you on your mission. Logistics ... and time. We mustn’t dally, but send you and your family on your way as soon as possible. Oleon has quite the head start on us.” Guilder gave him a sly grin, then said, “I take it this means you accept this mission?” “This seems like a very intense and difficult diplomatic mission...,” Román voiced his thoughts. “Willem,” Clarissa interupted, “even with all the admiration I have for my husband and his success in both trade and politics, isn’t what you are asking for more of a task for a Colonial Grand Ambassador of Eslandola? Who may appoint local ambassadors ...” “... like his son?” Román asked her, innocent as a lamb, to which Clarissa responded with a soft smile: “Yes, for example. Or just anyone else.” “Román, my apologies. I sometimes get so focused on an end result, I forget about some of the necessary tasks to get there.” Guilder reached into his coat pocket and produced a sealed letter. “As you know, that position has been vacant for some time, a casualty of the political upheaval. And the council believes it is high time that was addressed.” Guilder handed the letter to Román. “The Continental Council confers on you title of Grand Ambassador of Eslandola, with all its incumbent powers ... if you accept.” Román looked straight at Guilder: “Powers ... I consider an ambassador more a man of words than a man of power ... But that might be for philosophers to discuss. We are here in this world, where I gladly accept the trust the council has in me. I will make sure not to disappoint you.” Román took pause and circled the room several times, in deep thought, before he continued. “Now there is one more thing that lies heavy on my heart. As you know, I have effectively taken all responsibilities of governing Nellisa. And almost all inhabitants of our colonies know that I am de facto the Governor of Nellisa. But you and I know that there has never been an official acknowledgement from our council to clarify this uncertainty for good. I would be ... very pleased if you could look into this and bring distinctness, once and for all. It would surely make the lives of all Nellisans a bit less burdened.” “You’re right. I must admit, I had forgotten that it was never made official; such is the strength of your governorship that Fontonajo and Nellisa are thought of as one! Such appointments are simpler when the trade company controls the island. I will bring that up with the council and see that it is taken care of.” “That sounds good, Willem. The urgency for the mission must be even higher than I thought, given the little resistance you showed towards my proposals ... I guess I might ask for a palace in every Eslandolan town and you would consider actually making it possible! But both you and I are more than simple bargain-hunters on the fish market. So let’s call it an agreement, be satisfied with the result and keep all the rest in mind for our future meetings. You will stay for dinner?” “My dear Román, you did not ask for anything out of place ... although I must admit that I’m relieved we have reached the end of your list,” Guilder replied with a grin. “And you assess the situation correctly: we’ve been napping diplomatically and let Oleon take the lead, which we must now correct. But I feel better already knowing you are on board for this venture. … And I would love to stay for dinner.” * * * After dinner, Guilder made his way down to the docks, where Captain Ambrose MacMathain of the Eslandolan ship Valiant Phoenix was waiting. “Captain MacMathain, I hope I have not held up your departure.” “Not at all, sir,” said the captain. “My men are having quite the time offloading our cargo.” “Yes, I see that,” replied Guilder, eyeing the scene pensively. “But have no fear, sir, my crew and I are up to whatever task you have for us.” “I’m sure you are, captain.” Guilder then handed MacMathain a sealed diplomatic pouch. “Deliver this to Archduke Oldis’s court in Kings Port. We are notifying the Terraversans that we are sending an ambassador next month.” “I will watch over this letter personally, Admius Legistrad.” The captain hesitated, fearing he should not pry in official matters, but worked up his courage. “Who is our ambassador to Terraversa?” “Román Fontonajo, our former and first Admius Legistrad, has agreed to step out of retirement to represent Eslandola as Grand Ambassador on this mission. He is to officially announce what we should have said to Terraversa and the Brick Seas months ago. He will be sailing to Nova Terreli this month to prepare for his trip.” “Do you need me to do anything for the ambassador?” asked the captain. “No, other arrangements are being made for him,” replied Guilder. “Just deliver this letter to Kings Port.” “I will see it done,” replied the captain. And with that, Guilder was off. Captain MacMathain clutched the diplomatic pouch tight. Not being a man of politics, he wondered to himself what the announcement would be. But for Román Fontonajo to come out of retirement, it must be important.

Settlement Name: Bardo Ownership: MCTC Location: An Toli Mayor: Colonel Oystrigde - @Sir Stig Who can own property in Bardo: Anyone, from any faction. Who can freebuild in Bardo: Anyone, from any faction. Fortifications: Two large forts. Troops: 40 men (1 company of soldiers, 1 platoon of city guards). More information about Bardo can be seen in this post. Check out the Bardo Index. Please post links to any free-builds that take place in Bardo in this thread. If you want to license a piece of property in Bardo, post in this thread and fill out the web form. Original Map Sir Stig's Map: