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The day had started off as any other. The water was calm and the sky clear. Once out to their fishing grounds Leif called out to Isdir to drop the anchor and grab the nets. As the day dragged on storm clouds began to brew to the south. Luck, hopefully would be on their side and the storm would head towards the mainland. However only a few hours later, they were battling with the storm. Their small vessel being thrown around like a child's toy. Waves toward and crashed above them as they struggled to stay alive, almost as if they were caught in between a battle of gods. After a long rough night the water finally began to flatten, and they found themselves no longer being able to see the coast. Praying the gods were on their side now, Leif set sail for wherever fate would take him. He had heard the tales of the origins of the Elves. But that was all they had ever been. Tales. However that all changed when a towering arch rose from the horizon, A magnificent structure large enough to fit their boat through. A prancing horse with a rider top the somehow remain atop of the crumbling arch. behind it more structures rose from the seas depths, weathered but years of of harsh winds and high waves but still astounding in size and beauty. He heard Isdir mumble about the lost cities of the Elves, and I did not doubt him. Finally Leif gathered his wits and yelled to Isdir, we will camp on the rooftop over their, and then we shall sail south, just as the Elves claimed to have done. If they had truly found the Elves homeland, then who else knew what lay beyond? (bonus shot) Entry to Category B: A safe Haven. You can probably see I am no writer but I did not want this build to go with out a proper story. I built this back in October, and kept it to see if it would fit into the CCC. It didn't so I have just got round to post it on here now. I have lots of other builds ready to post on the guilds as well so watch out for them. The arch was difficult to make at first, but came together quick enough. the boat was also quite a challenge as it is my first. Hopefully you guys think it came out ok. The base was inspired by Jaapxaap and Legofin and I think it worked well here. Hope you enjoy and C&C needed

My entry into Category A of the "A Safe Haven" challenge. Allanar Forest on the isle of Alnya is where many of the dwelfs have chosen to live. This is likely due to their love of nature, and the many animals who also make their home there. The dwelfs spend much of their time caring for animals, or training them; even such creatures as dragons are welcomed in their community. Many live in unpretentious cottages, but don’t be mistaken – they are excellent craftsmen, and their homes are held in high regard by even the most skilled architects. "Now don't be scaring my chickens when you feed them, boy!" "Don't worry, Garrek, I can handle throwing out some chicken feed." Rhalyf had been given some time off at the stables during a quiet spell, and Garrek was quick to put him to work feeding the flock of chickens he keeps in addition to his prized goats. Faelar has a simple task today: fixing a section of fence alongside the path. Some lovely mushrooms caught Nym's eye earlier in the week, and today he returned to harvest the ripe ones and dig up one to plant in his own garden. Alenia is working with Frandri in the forest today, and has brought along a treat to reward the young dragon with. Torrel keeps several hives in different places throughout the forest, and as usual is busy checking up on some of them now. Lots more pictures on Brickbuilt. Thanks for looking, comments and criticism welcome

The People of Alnya The Land of Alnya The expansive Isle of Alnya offers a variety of climates ranging from the friendly, lush forests of the native Dwelfs, to the foggy wetlands, and soaring cliffs along the coast where the Adventurers’ Guild is based. The two groups are generally on good terms with the other and usually stay in their respective areas of the isle. The large Adventurers’ guild offers an incredible range of services to the surrounding islands, and even distant lands when clients offer substantial rewards. Besides standard jobs like monster hunting, traveler protection, and mercenary work, the Guild also offers highly skilled herbalists, beast masters, and cartographers. Many come to the Guild looking to gain an apprenticeship and work their way up into the rank of full Adventurer, but this is no easy task and many fail in the attempt. Although, not all those who live near the Guild are constantly seeking blood-chilling adventure, as there is a small community of farmers and various craftsmen who keep the guild well stocked with food and other supplies. One of the biggest crops in the wetlands is rice, but the plentiful fish along the coast make their fisheries quite a lucrative market as well. Dwelfs on the other hand, are usually quite content to stay in their villages, living a simple (yet sometimes mischievous) life. Their favorite pastimes include raising their goats, chickens, dragons, bees and occasionally sheep, finding new uses for herbs, crafting beautiful cottages, and of course eating. Every once in a while they will dabble in the art of mining, but it is not one of their preferred industries. Those who do mine deep often return with peculiar tales of stout, reclusive creatures dwelling under the earth, but no one has been able to confirm these reports, leaving the strange tales shrouded in mystery. Despite these two groups making the Isle their home however, much of it is largely unexplored. There are numerous legends about the uncharted lands, many of which involve great beasts and sometimes even the mention of mysterious people who tower above all they come across. Little interest is expressed in these tales from the Dwelfs, who are quite content to stay in their peaceful villages. The Adventurers’ Guild on the other hand, is eager to scout out the lands, and would probably have done so quite thoroughly already, if there were not kept engaged in their numerous other occupations. As such, the island is not always a safe place: the formidable creatures sometimes venture from their homes in the coastal caves and deep forests of the island, and the strength of such beasts is not easily defeated. 1. Torrel the Beekeeper No one in all of Alnya is as adept at the art of beekeeping as Torrel is. He tends meticulously to his hives, and his honey is held in the highest regard by all the isle. A few have tried unsuccessfully to steal some of his bees, to try and match the quality of his honey and gain a small fortune, but none have succeeded. No one knows exactly what happens to those who try this, but whatever it is, it keeps them from trying twice. 2. Rydel the Hunter Rydel is a light-hearted hunter, who often will poke fun at his apprentices, (or anyone for that matter). However, although he has a healthy sense of humor, he is one of the finest shots in all of the Dwelf forests, and can track almost any animal. 3. Garrek the Goatsman At first sight, Garrek would seem a bit gruff to most people. Although he isn't a jokester like Rydel, the two are very close friends, and will often help each other with various tasks when they can. As Rydel will attest to, Garrek really has a soft heart, especially when it comes to his beloved goats. He has been a goatsman all of his life, and has extensive knowledge about what plants his animals thrive on, and what should be avoided at all costs. 4. Alenia the Dragon Master Alenia is one of the head Dragon Masters among Dwelfs, even though she is relatively young in experience compared to some of the others. An accident early in her dragon taming career left her with only one eye, but she doesn't let it get in her way of achieving her dreams. She loves working with the Nayvnai dragons, and has one she keeps as personal pet, named Frandri, besides the ones she trains for others. 5. Nym the Gardner Nym loves gardens, wild flowers, herbs, trees... anything that grows. He's always ready to explain to you how this plant likes sun with just a little bit of water, while this purple one over here grows best in the shade and with lots of water. Although he takes gardening seriously, that doesn't keep him from enjoying life, and he will often be humming a tune while weeding, or reply with a witty remark when the neighbors pick on his near addiction to gardening. 6. Nyna the Innkeeper "Fresh bread and milk for table 2!" Nyna always has a smile on her face, and is usually bustling around her inn cooking for the next meal, cleaning rooms, tending to customers, or doing whatever else needs to be done. While not the fanciest Inn on Alnya, it's well-known that The Green Goblet (her inn) is near spotless, and the excellent cooking and cheerful service bring a smile to the face of any customer. 7. Tanelia the Minstrel Tanelia is one of Nyna's closest friends, and will often drop in The Green Goblet for a few days, drawing many of the locals to hear the minstrel. There are few songs she doesn't know, and her skillful rendering of them impresses even the royal families. While the royal families have to tried to hire her as a personal minstrel, she prefers to wander Alnya freely, bringing music wherever she goes. 8. Rhalyf the Stable Boy "Rhalyf! Get those stalls mucked, we have more horses to lodge!" Fortunately Rhalyf's amiable disposition is not easily discouraged. Generally he is a very hard worker at the stables, though sometimes his mind does wander to more noble occupations: his dream is to become an Adventurer, Dragon Tamer, Knight, or whatever else enters his mind, really. 9. Goren the Miner Unlike many Dwelfs, Goren is extremely serious - to the point that he has many theories of Goblin invasions (not that he knows what a Goblin is), fire coming from the sky and destroying all of Alnya, and similar such things. However, his work underground provides plenty of metals and gems for which the Dwelfen craftsmen happily put up with his pessimistic attitude. 10. Faelar the Carpenter Wood is the most oft used building material of the dwelfs, and Faelar is a master of carpentry. His workshop is always kept busy making cabinets, furniture, or even shaping larger timbers for houses and barns. Faelar himself is a rather quiet Dwelf, but is never happier than when working on a new project. 11. Jastar the Fisherman It takes a great deal of food to keep the Adventurers' Guild fed, which keeps plenty of farmers and fishermen like Jastar prospering. His fishing boat was built by Faelar, and Jastar is quite proud of its maneuverable qualities. Few fishermen are as successful as Jastar, as his knowledge of the coast allows him to make large catches of fish consistently. 12. Reinhold the Adventurer Reinhold is one of the original members of the Adventurers' Guild, and has vast amounts of experience in many different areas. An expert huntsman and swordsman, he is one of the most respected fighters in the guild, but he is also quite astute and rarely loses his temper. Although it's rare for him to go on expeditions anymore, when Reinhold does leave his administrative position at guild headquarters on an especially challenging expedition, he is usually in charge of a party of Adventurers. 13. Tanja the Falconer While women are not as common as men in the Adventurers' guild, anyone proving their competence can become respected in the guild. Tanja has done just that, and her skills as a falconer are rivaled by very few. Her personal falcon, Bolt, is fierce and agile and can be a deadly force in battle, or as a scout. Tanja and Bolt have an incredible understanding of each other, and have developed their own way of communicating with each other. 14. Jorn the huntsman Jorn the Huntsman has been at the Adventurers' guild for a number of years now, and specializes in hunting dangerous predators. Always serious when on the job, Jorn surprises many with his sense of humor when he isn't on the hunt. Although he isn't one of the younger members of the guild, he can cover ground quickly when needed, and is extraordinarily stealthy. 15. Gurukk the Warrior "Gurukk did not mean to hit so hard." Orcs, like any other race, can enroll in the Adventurers' Guild. Gurukk is surprisingly tender-hearted, though also armed with brute strength and a love for a good fight. Thus practice bouts in the arena sometimes can get a little out of hand. He is still working his way up to attain the full Adventurer rank, but is not someone you want to cross swords with. 16. Okano the Rice Farmer The wetlands along the coast of Alnya where the Adventurers' Guild is located are ideal for growing rice, and as such, it is one of the staple foods of the guild. Okano runs a good sized rice farm, though he once was an apprentice Adventurer before realizing his love for agriculture. Now he is an experienced farmer, and has plenty of tips and techniques to share with anyone looking to improve their own rice fields. 17. Turgan the Guardian Turgan the Guardian is an Adventurer always willing to safeguard caravans, convoys, or even specific people. Fiercely protective, trying to harm any of his charges will likely be the last mistake you make. Any of his friends would gladly recommend his services, as they know his loyalty is unbreakable. 18. Thorsen the Cartographer With all the islands and unexplored lands around Alnya, the services of a cartographer are highly prized. Thorsen is a veteran of the trade, and his maps are worth quite a hefty stack of gold coins. Unlike some map-makers, he is also adept at surviving in the wilds which make his services even more valuable. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- More pictures on Brickbuilt. Whew, it's been too long since I posted something in the guilds! I have some builds already up on other places that I plan on posting here, I just haven't had time to do so recently. I had a lot of fun with these guys, and with developing the Isle of Alnya, though unfortunately I was only able to complete one actual build for it, which I'll be posting here soon. As always, C&C is very welcome

Rene, Emile's quartermaster, had been sent a letter from his captain hwo was out at sea with Oleon in Terraversa. The loss of The Elise was a devestating blow to morale for the crew, especially since Emile wasn't with them when the ship was lost. Since then, they all had been waiting on orders. Finally, they arrived. Emile had heard of something going on in Jameston, the Corrington settlement, and he wanted Rene, Gilbert the boatswain, and Henri the rigger to go to the Oleon Consulate in the city and get supplies to search for some orchid. The other three main crew members were told to wait for further orders. The consulate was imposing. Glass doors opened up to balconies on the first floor, and two guards always stood at attention. After being allowed in, Henri went straight for the butler, hoping to find some form of alcohol there. And yes, Emile's rum was there. Gilbert found an old acquaintance who had been stationed at the consulate, and they chatted about the old times, back before they had gone their separate ways. Rene found the Consul and showed the letter he had received from Emile. "Ah yes," the consul said as he looked at the parchment. "Jameston has been in a bustle recently due to this. Who's going to go on this expedition?" "Myself, Gilbert, and the boy Henri," Rene replied. "If you could spare any other men, we'll gladly take them." "Unfortunately I can't send any men with you," the consul admitted. "But, I can give you a healthy amount of supplies. You'll need them when you head out. You'll find some interesting things out there. Just don't start a war, alright?" "I'll do my best," Rene said. Up above, they began to gather supplies: shot, weapons, tents. It's dangerous out there for a citizen of Oleon in this place.

Dear architecture and LEGO enthusiasts, I would like to propose you a LEGO Architecture challenge. Every week I will come up with a brief assignment, that connects LEGO and architecture and if you want, you can react to it and post photos of your creations. I hope you will have fun building experience. 1. Challenge Do the model of building in 3 different scales, start with a very small scale, just a few bricks. Then do the same building in larger scale with more details. And finally, the biggest model, with even more details. Example:

by Dathil, on Flickr LEADERS AND PROMINENT PEOPLE OF VETA, VOL. I THE TRADE IMPERIUM OF PHENIAS Phenias is built upon the islands in the Inner Sea. The main islands, Phenias, is home to the Volca, a large fortress built in a vulcano. The city expanded bigger than the island could sustain, and thus they started to build upon the water. The Pheniasi are the wealthiest faction around and dominate the free market throughout most of the continent. Their Quaestors, the tax officers, travel from market to market to collect their comissions. In return, the magistrate offers complete naval protection to everyone in the treaty. There are those, however, who suspect they might also be the ones "creating the needs of protection" theirselves, by investing their money wisely. Jovani Meci is the current magistrate of Phenias. Under his rule, the Pheniasi trade imperium has expanded vastly and has become real powerfull. He was born for this position, being a member of the wealthy Meci family, and having great economic insights. He proudly carries the Sextant Staff, a reminder of the seafaring origens of their family. However, there are those who say he has started questionable business inside the Volca,yet these sources have brought none evidence at all, and thus are these rumours not regarded as important by the Oraca. The diligent Quaestors of Phenias are often an unwelcome sight for the lords of the towns they visit. They wear the purple robes and stereotypical hat of Phenias, and have a status of immunity throughout every civilized country. They carry their sword mostly because of their noble ancestry. THE KINGDOM OF FRIKK The lands of Fríkk are inhibited by a tall and fair people, with probably some Elven blood in their pedigree. They have grown resilient against the colds and live in this lands, organizing raids, praying to their cruel gods called the Trissa, and hunting on the many kinds of prey that adapted to the cold climate. Gustolph Rekks is the current king of Frikk. In whole Veta, he is known as 'the Lion of the North', because of his sigil, the Lion. Under his reign, the country prospers. As much as the people respect his prowess in battle, they respect his wisdom. The king has some deep interests for arts and music as well, which is quite uncommon for the people in Frikk. Karl is the son of Gustolph and thus the heir to Frikk. While he is just 15 years old, he is known to be quite impatient when it comes to waiting to succeed his father. Even though he is that young, he has lead many military expeditions to success already. Karl is very religious and believes he was born to rule. THE WESTERLANDS The main power in Veta is the Imperium, currently ruled by empress Nemayra. the Imperium, Ihlrion, is divided in multiple regions, each of them gouverned by a noble family. The house of Glainthes is such a family. They control the Westerlands, on the border with the icy lands of Fríkk. Josua Glainthes is the leader of house Glainthes. After the death of his wife, he picked up his old drinking habit. Many fear that this could lead to unwanted situations, as he tends to become aggressive because of all the cider. Rachel is the oldest daughter of Josua Glainthes. Though almost as fair as her younger sister, she is not the fighter Becca is. She is a diplomat, and has read every book in her father's library. Some say she is not too happy with her younger brother standing higher in the line of succession. Becca Glainthes, the Succubus, is the second daughter of Josua Glainthes. Many call her the most beautiful woman in the country, and she is still single. However, she will only wed a man who defeats her in single combat, and many contenders have found out she is the deadliest woman in the country as well. Jona is the third child and eldest son of Josua Glainthes, and thus the heir of the house. He is a famous duelist, and his riding ability is matched by very few. Armed with his trumpet and his bow, there are little surprises that can reach the people under his protection. Robb is the most renowned cider farmer in the country. His farm, called Bunnock's Barn, stands under the protection of house Glainthes. KRYTTAN On the swampy peninsula in the north-east, the Krytt live. The Krytt look most like a cross between humans and goblins, but they are highly civilized and are no less than their human neighbours. Which does, of course, not take away that no one should try to meet them in battle... Rytan is a major Kryttan warchief. Because of him talking more with his maul than with his mouth, he has brought the Kryttan diplomacy to some dangerous levels. THE TRISSA The Trissa is the pantheon of gods worshipped by the people of Frikk. Their shrines can be found in every country throughout the continent however The most prayed-to god of the Trissa. Most prayers are meant for the enemies of the persons praying, asking for the blade of his halbard to aid their conflict. 'getting the Halberd' is a common phrase, used as euphanism of dieing. The goddess of protection has statues in many walled towns and settlements, and in every guardhouse there is a shrine to her. When praying to her, they belief nothing can happen to them. The Inquisitor is maybe even more feared than Death himself. He is believed to haunt the unfaithful and torture them while they keep living, a fate worse than getting the Halberd. MISCELLANEOUS Underneath the lands of Fríkk are the Fields of Despair. This once was the home of a mighty Elvish civilization. However, as not uncommon by elves, Hybris was their downfall as one of their ancient kings, dubbed "the purifier" intended to rid the continent of anything not-Elvish. This was the start of a series of wars, which ultimately led to a near-complete destruction of the Elves in Veta. There are still some remaining settlements, of which the inhabitants are called "Scavengers". Athon Darkeye is the leader of an Elven Scavenger tribe. His name is respected throughout the complete Fields of Despair. Garonn is a Free Sword, traversing the whole continent. 'The Eagle' is the origin for stories in many an inn. Orna is the kindest woman one will ever meet, but for sure also one of the strongest. Defying old traditions, she has become the very first female smith, yet she is one of the best in her profession. ABOUT THE AUTHOR This has been written and was signed by Horth the Half-elf, of the Tanes, Oraca in the higher arts. This manuscripts have been approved by the head of the Tanes. comments on references:

Count Mesabi by North White, on Flickr Official Press Release from the Wayfarer Trading Company: Private investigators, police officers, adventurers and bounty hunters of the Brick Seas! The WTC calls for justice! The mystery of the heinuos sabotage of the Wolf's Blood in Nova Malto must be unravelled and the perpetrator face his punishment. Therefore, the WTC offers a sizable bounty for the one to discover the truth. Please find enclosed the case file with the current evidence and report to the nearest WTC representative with any developments in the case. Sincerely Count Mesabi Chairman of the WTC Case file: Alright folks, it's time for a minichallenge! The Wolf's Blood was blown up in the middle of the Malto conflict, and I think it's time for people to show off their investigative and creative skills. What really happened? Here are the rules. Fill in the holes in the story and show us what might have happened! Your build must expand on the story so far. Is there a larger conspiracy in play? Has Oleon's suspect escaped? Was another ship destroyed? The story is in your hands! 16x16 minimum base LDD builds are not eligible for prizes The challenge will be decided by a voting thread when the challenge is completed. Voting criteria: Creativity in investigation and in filling in the holes in the story I will not vote in the challenge, except to break ties, or if something "fishy" happens You must be a member of BoBS to vote or participate in this challenge Prizes: 1st Place: WTC will build and license a large property in the settlement of your choosing And, you decide what really happened. Was it an Eslandolan plot? Native interference? Mardierian reprisal? Captain Mesabi? You decide! 2nd Place: WTC will build and license a medium property in the settlement of your choosing (Notice: As I will be leaving for college in September, I cannot promise the prizes to be completed quickly. I will try to have them ready by 2018.) Entries due by October 1st Voting thread will open the next day, and all votes are due by October 7th Post your questions in the thread below, or feel free to PM me

With apologies to George Lucas and Steven Spielberg... The year is 617. Mardier forces are looking for the rumored Lost City of Gold in an effort to fund their war effort against Eslandola. Without the gold, Mardier’s war effort is doomed. And so Eslandola has sent Thaddeus Calvo, an adventurer and sometimes spy, to find the lost city before Mardier does. In the jungles of an island east of the Prio Seas, Calvo has risked life and limb to retrieve a golden idol with clues to the location of the lost city. But as he emerges from the depths of the jungle, he is surprised by his oft-times rival, Dr. René Belóche, an Oleon adventurer now working in the employ of Mardier. “Eslandola Jones … we meet again!” exclaimed René. (“Jones” was one of Calvo’s aliases, and although René knew Calvo’s real name, he enjoyed calling him this in a mocking fashion.) René was accompanied by several local warriors of the Hovito tribe. “Quite a situation you’re in, eh?” Rene extended his hand. “I’ll take that idol now. Once again what was briefly yours is now mine.” Calvo reached for his bag, and the Hovito warriors readied their spears in case he pulled a weapon. But all he did was reluctantly hand over the golden idol. The Hovitos thought René had retrieved it for them, but Calvo knew René would steal it from them as well. “Too bad the Hovitos don’t know you like I do, René,” said Calvo. “True,” replied René. “You could warn them … if only you spoke Hovitos!” René then raised the idol high to display it to the Hovitos. As their attention was diverted to the idol, Calvo bolted for his boat back at the river. With a quick word and motion, René commanded the Hovito warriors to go after him. Calvo narrowly made his escape. * * * Back in Nova Terreli, Calvo met with one of his contacts, Salejandro, and with Calvo’s longtime friend, Madame Marian Villeneuve. With Salejandro’s help, Calvo was able to discern the meaning of the symbols he had seen on the golden idol. “I know where it is, Marian! The Lost City of Gold -- I can find it in a week,” exclaimed Calvo. “You mean WE can find it in a week,” stated Marian firmly. “What? You can’t go with me,” replied Calvo. “Oh yes I can. After all the adventures I’ve funded with little in return, until we find the Lost City of Gold, I’m your G** D*** partner!” And so Calvo and Marian found passage on the Bantu Wind, a ship heading east. Captain Katanga looked like the sort of fellow who had been through a few close scrapes and knew how to smuggle something past the authorities. Now Calvo and Marian needed Katanga to smuggle them past Mardier ships on patrol in the Prio Seas. But Mardier had their spies as well, and René knew Calvo’s methods. As the Bantu Wind reached the far eastern waters of the Prio Seas, René was waiting, intercepting them with a Mardier gunship. Katanga alerted Calvo to hide. When the Bantu Wind was boarded by René and his Mardier companions, Katanga surrendered to protect his ship and crew. The Mardier troops searched the ship for Calvo, but could not find him. “Where is he?” demanded the Mardierian colonel. “I killed him,” replied Katanga. “He was of no value to me. Take whatever you want from my cargo, but leave the lady; she has value where we are headed.” The colonel was incensed. “We will take what we want, pirate scum,” he declared, “and then we will decide whether or not to blow your ship out of the water!” The colonel pulled Marian away from Katanga, but René took custody of her instead. René had known her in younger days and had always been jealous of her relationship with Calvo. As soon as the Mardierians were off the ship, Katanga ordered his men to find Calvo, still hidden on the ship. But he could not be found. While watching the Mardierian gunship depart, one of Katanga’s men found him. “There he is!” he exclaimed, pointing aft of the Mardierian ship. Calvo was in the water, his whip wrapped around the rudder! * * * René had also discerned the location of the Lost City of Gold from the clues on the golden idol, and soon they reached their destination. René and the Mardierians made their way into the jungle, and Calvo made his way ashore and followed them. As they slowed down, Calvo diverted around them through the jungle and found a suitable spot for an ambush, a small pass through a ridge. “Hello René!” yelled Calvo from the top of the ridge. “Eslandola Jones?!” René queried in exasperation. “How? What are you doing here?” “I don’t care about the gold anymore,” said Calvo. “I came for the lady.” But before Calvo could rescue Marian from René, a few Mardierian soldiers quietly climbed the ridge and apprehended the Eslandolan. René and the Mardierians proceeded through the jungle with Calvo and Marian in tow. Their objective should be over this next ridge. And when they reached the top of the ridge, they could see the ruins of an ancient city in the valley below. They descended into the ruins, and there they saw a golden chest upon an altar. René had Calvo and Marian tied up so they could not interfere. With the Mardierian colonel at his side, René prepared to open the golden chest. “Marian,” whispered Calvo, “whatever you do, don’t look at the treasure, and definitely don’t touch it!” For Calvo had also discerned not only the location of the Lost City of Gold, but also its curse. And so, when René opened the chest and ran his hands through its contents of gold coins, he and the colonel, and the other Mardierian soldiers looking on, were turned to gold. * * * And so Mardier was denied the treasure to fund its war effort. Calvo and Marian stole the Mardierian gunship and made it back to civilization. And as for the location of the Lost City of Gold and its curse? That will stay a secret. Calvo reported that the Mardierian efforts to find it were in vain, as the rumored city did not exist.

This collab is realized by Captain Genaro, Blackdeathgr and me. Here is the part of collab built by Captain Genaro: Amazing, the Mardierian officer thought. Had the native guide not pointed it out, he would completely missed the half overgrown stone, but now that he saw it, his imagination ran wild. The stone, more of a boulder really, was nearly the size of a man and despite cracks and weathering, had clearly been cut out by skilled stone masons. The overgrowth and weathering alone suggested that it predated any colonial settlements, but from what he had seen, the current natives lacked the means to quarry this block, much less move it any distance. CH V Entry by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr The native guide attempted to explain something about the stone with hand gestures, falling from the sky? No, that doesn't make sense, the officer thought. Or is he trying to tell us to rest? But before the Mardierian officer could interpret the gestures, he heard shouting followed by a thud, splash, and screams of terror. Immediately, he turned his head towards the commotion and saw the head and upper torso of one of the adventurers bobbing amid the torrent. Another man lay at the officer's feet, struggling to get up, and with a massive chest sitting precariously close to being washed away by the stream. On the opposite bank, men shouted at the poor soul to swim, keep his head up, grab onto something, head for the bank, just do something until we can help you, but all their shouting was in vain. The officer, though he had seen his share of violence and death, simply stood there stunned by the result. To think the adventure had gone so well up to this point, not a single man lost and an alliance with the natives. But alas, in his haste to reach his goal and avoid the Garvian frigate, he had decided to take the most direct route regardless of the risks. Sure, the stream was narrow, but it moved too fast and was mostly too deep to be forded. A bridge wouldn't take more than a few hours to construct, but the Oleanders couldn't be kept waiting. Any delay on his part and the ship-of-the-line captain might decide to abandon their deal and return to his patrols. And now, as a result of his haste, as a result of his greed for gold, a man had died. CH V Entry by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr While the officer stood there stunned, the rest of the men recovered. The shouting soon stopped, the roar of rushing water drowning out the prayers mumbled by the men as they quietly blessed their selves before fortifying their selves to continue on their journey to the coast. CH V Entry by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr "Shall we continue, sir," the soldier on the near bank asked. "Sir?" he repeated as the officer remained in his stunned state. "Oh, yes, yes, very good. As you were," the officer muttered seemingly to no one in particular. The soldier eyed the officer who seemed unaware of anything that was happening around him, and then began shouting orders for the men to continue and to watch their damn step lest they want to become the next sacrifice to the river nymph. CH V Entry by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr Here is my part of collab (recognizable by the bad photo quality): On a bright and sunny day, a Garvian frigate cruises in the vicinity of Tema Hiva (rumours say a city of gold was discovered on this island). The ship, the Ugly Duckling, The Lion of Garvey, is a newly commissioned 6th rater (or class 5 in the universe of BoBS), pride of her captain. On this cruise, the captain must fulfill one mission, intercept the Mardierian vessel carrying the gold discovered on the soil of natives. The captain of the Lion of Garvey was very confident of the success of his mission, knowing Mardierians have lost most of their ships in the battle of five fleets. But it seems he has neglected one detail, the Blues are not in war against Mardier and their fleet is intact. So, on this shinny day, the watch of Lion of Garvey was surprised by a big bowsprit pointing at their six. - Captain, ship on our six! - Can you identify her? - Nay, sir, but she's a two-decker! - It must be Margot, our Eslandolan friends are trustworthy lads. - Sir! She is arboring a Fleur de lys on the bow castle! - What??!!! Impossible!!!! - What should we do captain? She's gaining rapidly on us! The garvian seamen aren't mistaken, she's indeed an Oleander ship of the line, built in urgence by the Royal Shipyard and arrived in time to the rendez-vous point. The Mardierian exploration team, although lost one of their men in the haste, finally managed to plow a path through the jungle and loaded the gold aboard. There, the gold is placed under the custody of a Mardierian colonel, who will make sure that the gold reaches safely its destination. The Oleanders are well aware of the importance of the cargo, therefore, they've despatched a SOTL carrying 60 guns. This is her maiden voyage and some Oleander dignitaries and ship experts are onboard to evaluate her sailing ability and supervise the loading and unloading of the gold. - Captain! They are opening the gunports, what is your order, sir! - Hum, humhum, heu, rehum... - Sir! - Lay down your weapons, lads! We can't fight a sotl at this distance. - Farewell Garvies! The Mardierian officer on the stern waves at them and says in smiling. Extra pictures of the ships: Thank you for viewing!

What is the Summer Joust? The Summer Joust is a castle contest with 6 different categories that is open May 1st-June 30th 2017. The contest is hosted on Flickr in a dedicated contest group. This year there are prizes for 1st and 2nd in all categories (excepting the team category), as well as 3 individual awards.

After losing his big flagship, Captain Rijsk adapted to a new plan. Some small fishing vessels who were easily manouvrable. The Mardierians came once a day in the afternoon with a bigger vessel to exchange the Tuna for instant cash. So after some succesfull hours catching fish, he was very happy to see the Tuna King on the horizon. He gave orders to his second vessel to put the caught tuna in the baskets of his vessel and he waited till the Tuna King arrived. Once the captain of the Tuna King examined the Tuna and all that delicious fish was transferred, Captain Rijsk dared to ask for his money. "De Money? Ofcourse! My soldiers will bring de money to u! Guards!" The excitement of Captain Rijsk quickly ebbed away when he noticed the purple uniforms of Prio Soldiers, green uniforms of Eslandola soldiers and red uniforms of the Garvey soldiers. The well-trained guards quickly surrounded everyone, forcing them to swim back home. It is said that Captain Rijsk, after loosing his second hand in the previous encounter, lost his second leg in this encounter. Still he was eager to buy a new vessel to keep fishing. What a hero/idiot! The Tuna King, a captured Mardier vessel that belongs to MAESTRO and which was lent out to a Garvey Privateer, returned back to Trador to sell their wares. The first steps of the Trador Tuna Imperium was taken :) Some overal pictures are forgotten, I'll take some in one hour and post it here. I already removed the waves and water as it is part of a Pirate lay-out at Brickmania Wetteren :)

Maurice of Greene, Prince of Brickwall, cousin to King Fernando Augusto VII, comes from a long line of military leaders of Eslandola, dating back two and a half centuries to Eslandola’s original break from Mardier. Although the signing of the Magna Charta by the king was looked upon with shock and horror by many in the Eslandolan nobility, it did not diminish Maurice’s love of country, and he answered the call when the most recent disagreement with Mardier boiled over into an actual shooting war. Maurice had followed in his forefathers’ footsteps, studying strategy and tactics at the Terreli Military Academy. While Eslandola had not truly seen war in more than a century, and as such the opportunity for military experience greatly limited, Maurice was viewed as one of Eslandola’s greatest military minds. It was Maurice that King Fernando Augusto turned to when planning his invasion of Oleon. The politics had been disastrous for the king, but those that had seen the military plans believed the invasion would have succeeded; Maurice’s plan was brilliant, but the world would never get to see that brilliance. And so, when Eslandola was forced to respond militarily to Mardier, it turned to the Prince of Brickwall. On March 31, 617, Maurice led more than a thousand men, including the prince’s own cavalry regiment, in a beach assault against La Puebloto, Mardier’s settlement at the mouth of the Lintili River on Isla de Victoria, a.k.a. Skaford Heights. The fighting was intense, and losses mounted on both sides as Eslandola’s forces failed to break the Mardierian line. In an effort to end the standoff, Maurice led his cavalry in a charge along the beach to out-flank the defenders. Mardierian musketeers and pikemen hurriedly extended their line to the sea and opened fire. The Prince’s regiment closed with the defenders quickly, and it was mayhem as shots were fired and horses fell. Maurice continued to lead the charge into the thin Mardierian defense. The Mardierian commander could see that his line would not be enough against the cavalry regiment… …but his men held their ground and took the charge… …and one musketeer found his mark, firing a shot through Maurice’s chest, mortally wounding the prince. But the cavalry charge was successful. They broke through the line and rolled up the Mardierian rear defenses. The Eslandolan infantry then broke through Mardier’s unsupported center, and the battle was won. Maurice’s death is a terrible loss to Eslandola, but his quick thinking and valour on the field of battle were the turning point in Eslandola’s victory over Mardier that day. The Prince of Brickwall is a shining example to all Eslandolan commanders, today and in the future. Close-up of Maurice receiving the fatal shot: Additional shots: Composition was inspired by a painting of a Thirty Years War battle. The fallen horse and launched rider was fun to pose, and I was happy with how the ice cream pieces worked for smoke from the muskets. The blood spray exiting the hero's back worked out ok, but not quite what I hoped. The color gradation of the water looks off, but I was going for a painting effect where the edges are feathered out. I'm happy with the marshy look of the beach. As always, all C&C welcome.

Rumours were swarming around that Garvey Mardier had developed biological weapons of mass destruction in the Sea of Prio. Eslandola sent out a recon ship to spy and if possible, steal their technology. Garvey Mardier had other plans for their WMDs. Yum, yum, bumbel greenies.

One of the most notorious pirates in this world was without any doubt Captain Greybeard. The reason his name didn't show up the last year in the KPA editions, is simply because no enemy survived his actions. A lot of missing vessels are in fact destroyed by Captain Greybeard and his beasty. Yes indeed, the little pet of Captain Greybeard is a wonderfull and unique Narwhal. So strong that it could pierce and lift up complete vessels. A true terror in the sea. Captain Greybeard was bribed by the Mardierian King to privateer for Mardier. As Mardier heard the news that Eslandola was sending 18 vessels to Isla de Many Names (as a counter to the blockades), Captain Greybeard was ordered to destroy this fleet. Tomorrow would be the day his vessel "The AQAR" would intercept the Eslandolan fleet led by Commodore Maximilian Damaximus. To prepare for the upcomming battle, he let most of his crew sleep this night so they would be at full strength. He thought he had well hidden his vessel. As it was a moonless night, darkness surrounded the AQAR. Suddenly in the middle of the night... Multiple cannons started firing at the AQAR. Captain Greybeard quickly jumped in his suit, and went to the forecastle to see what is wrong... "Martinez Da Cruz, what happened?" "We are under fire captain! It looks like a minor vessel attacking us!" "Those fools! Order our crew to stay in their cabin and keep sleeping, we need our full strength tomorrow! I'll handle this stupid vessel" With an elegant swing of his sword, pointing to the attacking vessel, he summoned his Narwhal A loud noise arised from the depth of the sea. Suddenly a bang occured. The attacking vessel was lifted meters high and started tearing apart. Sailors started screaming, jumping out of the vessel. (Spoiler: for those reading the story, the spoiler shows a part of the story unknown to Captain Greybeard) Back on the AQAR, Captain Greybeard enjoyed the screamings of the poor sailors. They shouldn't have been so stupid attacking the AQAR. First Mate Martinez Da Cruz came back. "There is no damage to the vessel sir! Only some crew members that are injured. It looks like they fired with grape shots!" "Excellent news! Let's sail away from this place" Suddenly Captain Greybeard realised that they had been tricked. "Awake everyone! It was a trap! We are being entered!" Too bad for him, it was too late... While turning he saw a wet officer in front of him, pointing his pistol at his heart. The officer looked him in the eyes and said: "I got an invitation for you to dine in hell tonight" Meanwhile the officer, being no-one else than Commodore Lord Maximilian Damaximus, shot Captain Greybeard right in his heart. Captain Greybeard felt dead on the deck, but his magical sword was thrown overboard. One of the Eslandolan soldiers jumped in the water in order to retrieve it. It is unknown if Lord Maximilian Damaximus managed to posses the Magical Sword or not. Future will tell... Meanwhile on the AQAR, the pirates were quickly surrounded. A new vessel to the MAESTRO fleet. And what a vessel! 50 guns, fast and strong. A new weapon in the war against Mardier that was very welcome! Final picture: --- The AQAR (aka: Adapted Queen Anne's Revenge) More pictures: The AQAR next to the Margot Hope you like the vessel! It is a 50 gun 4th rate of the Line. The vessel is based on the QAR in PoTC, Assassin's Creed and own imagination. Historically seen, she had 40 guns. - Thanks for watching! C&C welcome!

My sixth entry for ABS builder challenge. This build came together quite quickly, though the presentation was a bit of a challenge to get right. The lobster was a fun challenge to create, and I’m quite pleased with the result, though perhaps my personal favorite part of the build is the cup. Inspiration goes to Siercon and Coral, as well as Legohaulic. The dark red seed part is used 12 times. More pictures on Brickbuilt Thanks for looking, C&C welcome

The Eslandola Council has ordered General Matthews to take Skaford Heights. The general is a master in the orderly fashion of warfare of the era. Their sacrifice for Eslandola will not go to waste.

A Lovers' Tale Part II (Against Mardier) Prelude Part 1 (Bregir) Part 2 (Elostirion) Part 3 (Ayrlego) Rumours had spread quickly in town. Ricardo Alphonso de la Montague had proposed to Angelica Castellano. In the many taverns of King's Port the stories of Ricardo's proposal were already told, how he had brought a carriage with more than one thousand flowers, a ring of pure gold with the biggest ruby that had ever been found in the new world, and proposed to bis beloved Angelica from down the streets, up towards her balcony. And how she had replied, singing with the softest voice of an angel, as her name sugggests, a song to express her deep love for Ricardo, and to say yes. Marja Fontonajo knew different. She had been there. She had found Angelica Castellano in King's Port, and realised that she was the girl that Ricardo's father had talked about, the girl Ricardo was in love with. There were not a thousand flowers, nor a pretentious ring, nor did she sing. But what she had seen had gone far deeper. These two did not need any of these symbols. It was the real and honest love of a young couple. Now, a few days later, the facts were obvious. The de la Montague family had always been pro Terraversan independence. And while Ricardo's father, Hugo de la Montague, was afraid for his son, he would not oppose the marriage. General Castellano, commander of the Horse Guards, was more sceptical. He had not yet decided for a side in the Terraversan conflict, and did not like the idea of his daughter deciding for him. And then there was King Alphonse XIII of Mardier, who had been struggling to get the powerful Castsellano on his side in the Terraversan conflict. It was known that his ruthless Death Guard had already arrived in King's Port. The danger for Ricardo and Angelica had become real. At the "Grape & Goblet", a tavern and guesthouse in King's Port The Death Guard is entering the tavern, while Ricardo and Angelica are climbing down the window. But how have they gotten there? And why is blood dripping from the upper floor? Two hours earlier Marja Fontonajo saw one of the kitchenmaids hastily leave the guesthouse through a backdoor with a letter in her hand. The maid ran straight to a larger estate and handed the letter to one of the guards at the gates. The guard took the letter inside, and soon after Marja could see a Sergeant of the Death Guard assemble his men in the courtyard. Marja hasted back towards the "Grape & Goblet", where she confronted the innkeeper, but found him to be innocent. In fact, he had not even known that the young couple who were his guests were actually Ricardo and Angelica, but when he learned he agreed to help. Marja quickly ran up the stairs, and burst the door open, where she found the two lovers kissing, half naked. "Get dressed. Immediately!", she commanded the ashamed lovers. While Angelica looked at her in fear, Ricardo - though still confused - grabbed for his rapier. "If I wanted you dead you would already be.", Marja replied. "Who are you?", Angelica asked, afraid of the answer. "Your guardian. Now listen! You have been betrayed. The Death Guard is on its way. Your lifes are in danger. Now get dressed, and stay in here. When I give you a sign you leave through the window. You", she added towards the befuddled innkeeper, "get us a rope and a board to barricade the door. Now!" And looking at the lovers again she added: "Climb down the window, then run towards the back of the house, fifty metres to the left, turn right, and you will find an alleyway. Go down, at the first crossing go left, and then just follow the path till it ends. You will find a closed tavern called Othello's Folly. Climb in the second window at the back and I will meet you there and get you out of town." "But my father...", Ricardo started. "Already knows", Marja interrupted. "Now stop discussing and get ready. They will be here in a minute!" When the first soldier of the Death Guard ran upstairs, Marja gave the sign for Angelica and Ricardo to climb. Once the soldier has spotted her and starts running, drawing his saber, a bullet hits him right in the heart. Marja hasn't killed anyone in quite a while. Now, however, her only thoughts are with the lovers. And how she will leave the tavern in about thirty seconds. Downstairs the innkeeper tries to win some time by discussing the honour-code of the Terraversan guesthouse association, that clearly forbids to disclose any details about guests. The Death Guard's sergeant is already getting angry, while the next of his men cannout hold it an run upstairs. Two more members of the Death Guard are entering the "Grape & Goblet" right now. Little do they know that the room of Ricardo and Angelica is already empty... ... and that the two lovers are fleeing the guesthouse right under their nose. __________________ To be continued...

A Lovers' Tale Part I (Against Mardier) Prelude Civil war had been gentle on King's Port, although everyone had a relative or acquaintance involved in the conflict. Life had been good on Terraversa under the Viceroy, after independence from Mardier had been declared, and for a long time, there had been little or no fighting, limited mainly to minor skirmishes at sea. But now, with Mardier recovering from internal conflict, war is moving closer, and the whole populace is holding their breath, watching the tides and turns of the political landscape. Of great importance is the generals of the Terraversan armies, as their choice of allegiance will spell the doom or success of the independence movement. One such is General Castellano, commander of the Horse Guards, some of the finest Terraversan Cavalry. Undecided as of yet, the Horse Guards has been ordered to remain in their barracks, their general refusing to declare either for or against independence. Agents of Mardier has tried bribes, blackmail, threats, seduction to bring him to their side, as has agents of the independence movement. An honourable man, General Castellano has yielded to none so far, wishing not to stir up conflict and risk bloody, collateral damage, but agents of Mardier fear that his daughter is about to do so for him. The Castellano family is both rich and influential, as is typical for military officers in Mardierian societies, and holds considerable real estate, including a mansion in uptown King's Port. In from their country estate, his daughter Angelica often takes residence here, as she has done this day. She occupies the west wing, with several balconies over the back alleys behind the mansion. Just moments ago, she heard something hit the shutters over the back door and rushed with great anticipation to the balcony nearby, fixing up her hair and robe on her way. Walking out on the balcony, her hopes are met, as her paramour, Ricardo Alphonso de la Montague, is awaiting, a defiant expression upon his face. The son of one of the champions of Terraversan independence, Hugo de la Montague, their romance is laden with political implications, but none of them care one bit for politics, entirely caught up in the intense love so typical for the young. Seeing her beaming smile in the window, Ricardo's face lights up as he takes off his hat in an elegant sweeping movement merging with a bow. "My sweetheart! How my heart has longed throughout the day to once more set eyes upon your beauty, and hear the sweet melody of your voice!" Breaking into a charming, shy smile, Angelica feels her love rise through her bosom, resulting in a healthy blush upon her face, making it prettier than ever. At least to Ricardo, a man with a mission... "As have mine, my love. The hours have passed like the turn of the centuries, as I waited for you to return" Looking left and right, concluding the alley is as empty as before, our young hero returns his attention to Angelica, with a more serious glance. "Listen carefully, my darling Angelica - we must act. My father and yours both have caught the scent of our connection. This is of little concern, but rumour has it that others have done so too. Others, who will not look kindly to our families uniting..." "What are you saying, Ricardo?" "There are those who will seek to part us, with any means possible. Angelica, my love. I have come to ask for your hand, and to ask you to abscond with me. To leave for a place where we can live in peace until such a day that we can return here, without risking our lives..." Ricardo gave her a compelling gaze before continuing. "Let me in to talk to you in private. And to help you pack - we must hurry! I know of an inn where we can hide for now..." __________________ To be continued...

The rapid expansion across the Terraversa Sea presented many an opportunity to the open minded merchants of the old world. Johan von Yastobaal was one such merchant. Establishing his headquarters and estate in King’s Port, the Mardier business man was making quite a fortune for himself. Unfortunately, his mercantile efforts were repeatedly frustrating, and frustrated by, Eslandolan trade ventures in the same ports. As von Yastobaal was about to discover, the Eslandolans had deep pockets and few were the difficulties more money could not solve in one way or another. So it was that Johan returned to his estate one evening. Immediately retreating to his private chambers overlooking the garden, he was quite surprised to find a woman hidden in his room. He was even more surprised when she struck him in the chest with some kind of modified caestus. Seconds later he was falling out of his window onto the stone path below. The assassin watched with an intellectual curiosity as von Yastobaal hit the ground. The fall was likely more than survivable, which is why the blades of her weapon had been coated with Widowmaker venom – a potent, and extremely swift, venom belonging to a species of spider recently discovered in the Terraversan isles. Making a discrete exit, she stopped to confirm von Yastobaal was dead. Satisfied, she fled the scene to return to her employers at the House of Spiders.

It was discovered that Eslandola had been holding secret diplomatic intercourse with Mardier. The Marderian supreme commander was determined to have closer diplomatic ties despite the hostilities between the two nations. Unfortunately, there was a setback from the accidental blundering of the blunderbuss incident. Blunderbuss Wedding by dr_spock_888, on Flickr

It was the talk of the town the last couple of weeks. Princess Sofiana, a niece of King Alphonso of Mardier, was about to marry with Captain Emilson. Captain Emilson was a son of a wealthy family in Mardier and owner of a private fleet. By giving the hand of Lady Sofiana, King Alphonso hoped to led Captain Emilson join his war against Eslandola. As a wedding gift, the Emilson Family received no less than 1000 doubloons from Mardier! The wedding itself was a big succes. All noblemen from KP were invited, even the rebels. After a long day, the newly wed couple went to their suit in the Royal Horse Inn in KP. It was a very quiet night. A few strangers walking on the street, minding their own business or trying to arrive at home on time in order to avoid an unhappy wife. The doors of the Royal Horse already closed. And inside, only the barman and a musician were spotted. A very quiet night indeed. The couple slept very well, knowing a royal Mardierian Guard was well erm guarding the balcony. What no-one knew, was that an assassin prepared the perfect murder for weeks... Very smoothly he managed to remove some wooden planks he made loose in the past so he had access to the room without anyone noticing him. Once arriving at the bed, he choked the unfortunate lady. Smooth, quickly and without any sound. A bit later, Captain Emilson woke up, discovering his wife to be dead. He yielded, drawing the attention of the Royal Guard. As there was no way someone could have entered the room. The guard quickly determined 1 and 1 should be 2 and he arrested Captain Emilson for the murder on his wife. The fact that Captain Emilson had a reputation of liking SM, wasn't helping the poor guy... Aftermath: Captain Emilson was found guilty of murder. His last words were: "it wasn't me". His brother took command over his fleet and sailed away from KP under a Pirate Flag, having sworn to avenge his brother. Mardierian traders are his favourite prey. ------- Thanks for watching! C&C welcome!

Welcome! Would like to present my moc for the Book II: Challenge V - Category A, Alliance side. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wetland Delivery As the moon kept climbing, and the stars were shining over the dark, hazy wetlands of far eastern Nocturnus, a small wooden boat glided across the wild and hazardous region, called the Eight legged archipelago. Lothar von Vonnegut scanned the lush shore, and the waters for dangers thoroughly, as the edge of the land was getting closer and closer every moment. Only thing he could see over the side of the boat, was a big tree, with a scarlet mangolia near it. Some red fruit grew on the bush, the blood berry- but the man was unfamiliar with the flora and fauna of these parts. Couldn't identify the blazing stinger reed nor the rusty swamp sedge. - We are almossst theeere! Welcome to Bygone Bayou! - hissed his makeshift shady ferryman. An interesting fella with lime colored skin, and some red stripes at the sides of the chest. Had some garments, but not much. A green belt, and a few brown leather pads here and there. Sly and fishy visage. They ran into each other back in Skavenport, at the Black Knight's Inn. Lothar drank some good ale with his brother- in- arms there, before they parted ways. Their mission was the same, but their destination was different. And here he stood now, only a few hours later, on the island of Eeryland, the largest one of the archipelago north of the strait known as Street of Cerberus. In enemy territory, late night, alone, surrounded by a suspicious kind of a cold- blooded lad, who stated that he will get him to the Queen of Spiders, Lady Ashibikaashi. He loved every minute of these perilous assignments! Vonnegut carried an important message, which had to be delivered into the queen's hand only! But this was not an easy task given to him by his superiors in Shadowmere. Lord Raavage's forces patrolled these lands lately, and the soldiers of the Spire would commit horrendous things on a spy without any hesitation or remorse. Getting caught was not an option! - Who is that?! - raised the little bit edgy courier from his seat, because he spotted a shape of some humanoid on the shore. Couldn't make it out in the darkness but it held a spear, that was unmistakable. The boat hit land, with a slight impact, but Lothar didn't lose his footing, he stood solid in his black apparel, one hand behind his back, with a dagger in it, hid by his cloak. It was a cloak and dagger mission after all... - No need to worry my fffriend! He isss just a commuter offf mine! I will take him to the mahrrrket in Ssskavenport. Trades fruitsss of the ssswamps for thingsss hisss people needsss - answered the sketchy reptile chap from the front of the boat, as he finished up the docking procedures. - What are you talking about, scales?! You told me, you will guide me to Ashibikaashi! - the warrior of Shadowmere lifted his voice a bit. His shemagh covered some of his shock, and anger. - Relaxsss! I got you! I do not have a death wisssh to meet that ssspinner! By accsssident you arrive in feeding time, and you are finissshed... But! But! I know a perssson, he resssidesss clossse! Jussst get off the boat, and head eassst for a while! You will sssee a sssmall ssshelter! Sssearch for the light of the fireplace inssside! - Who lives there?! Speak, or i will cut out your forked tongue! - Captain von Vonnegut stepped closer to the slithering serpent to intimidate it a bit with his robust stature. - There'sss no need to get physssical! Pleassse!!! - Gutkeled the Tangled lives there, stranger! A feared, and rather mysterious person in these lands! I reckon he is some kind of elf maybe, with skin yellowish- greenish... His place is a short hike from here, but be wary! The night swamp is full of violence! Always be on your guard! - intervened the next passenger. Lothar slowly turned his head, took his eyes off of the snake, and looked at it- who still stood on the shore, with a sack in his hand, the spear in the other. It had some kind of back pack. The creature resembled a spider. - Gutkeled can get you safely to my Queen! - added the being, who had brown skin, beady yellowish eyes, two big white fangs, and wore some kind of grass, bones, and web as clothing. - And will he?! Out of the kindness of his heart, am i right? - leapt Vonnegut ashore, and he was skeptical at this point. Wasn't fancy of lies, deceivers, and changes of plans, and deals. Around him, the swamp was alive and well. Olive green sour snaketail grew everywhere. Between those some sprouts of lavender rush lived, and a magenta mangrove bush bloomed. Under them ebony vipers bed for the night. Couldn't sleep much, since a quag toad performed a concert for some hours now. - Have no idea. Would never approach The Tangled! I am just an insignificant fruitmonger for my kind. But you had the guts to come to these lands. Why stop now?! You don't look like a human, who backs down easily - replied the merchant. - Let'sss gooo! We mussst go! The tide is coming sssoon! - whissspered the ferryman anxiously. - I hope you two speak the truth! For your sake, and mine! - stepped Lothar aside to give way towards the boat. - Good luck to you! - said the spider guy, as he passed. - Keep your bootsss dry hoooman! - waved the cold blooded, as the boat slowly disappeared in the murk, behind a giant maroon cypress. Captain Vonnegut could clearly hear the high- pitched sound of the flying mourner mice, as they were eating a midnight snack of tasty bayana fruit. Above them a grey corbie had a nap. It wasn't aware, that a swamp spook lurked close, looking for its prey! Even the sentinel of the swamp, the brown cloaked glider raptor on the top of the cypress didn't detect its presence yet! The all alone man looked up, and spotted some kind of giant coccoon, hanging on one of the lower branches. He was fortunate, he didn't know, there was a giant spider's dinner in it. Only a few days old. A hapless avalonian adventurer. Probably his party couldn't made it much further neither... ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The pictures: IMG_20170203_112758_3 by Lazlow Lockhart, on Flickr IMG_20170203_113740 by Lazlow Lockhart, on Flickr IMG_20170203_113646 by Lazlow Lockhart, on Flickr IMG_20170203_113626 by Lazlow Lockhart, on Flickr IMG_20170203_113153 by Lazlow Lockhart, on Flickr IMG_20170203_113317 by Lazlow Lockhart, on Flickr IMG_20170203_113246 by Lazlow Lockhart, on Flickr IMG_20170203_113435 by Lazlow Lockhart, on Flickr [More pictures in the spoiler section. / Pictures of the characters in the second one.] Thanks for watching! The moc's album on Flickr.

Previously in the story: Bull's Eye (Prelude) This still takes place long before Raavage Davok: "We gathered our forces rather quick, and then marched for Falconstone. The supply train would arrive later, 'cause I wanted my vanguard to move freely.". "We were only halfway through the Frozen River fords, when some riders blocked our path." Unpleasant encounter (1) by David de Rijke, on Flickr "Three riders from unknown origin where standing in the river. One of them was their leader, obviously. He seemed to be some sort of wizard scum, given his hat and his staff from which icy sparks were coming. Never liked this kind.. The worst part, was their faces. They did not seem to have any..." "The wizard could speak, however. Immediatly when we saw these fellows, I raised my shield and took a defensive position. I saw my men do the same while my chieftains looked at me what to do. But the wizard told us about that messenger I spoke at the Bull's Eye. He said they were sent to help us. They lowered their weapons to prove it. I started to get an uneasy feeling about this whole mission. Who was our client, and why did he venture with wizards of this kind? Might he be some sort of wizard himself? And WHO is this stranger, if his value is so big these... powers... are sent in to deal with it?"

Davok: "Long before the rise of Raavage, in the days after Revolword's defeat, a messenger arrived at the Bull's Eye, in these days not more than a mere outpost for our compagny" Bull's Eye by David de Rijke, on Flickr "The messenger, no one remembers anything of what he looked like, demanded to speak with the present highest in rank, which happend to be the Bull's second in command, me. It appeared to be confidential, so we sat together in the higher room of the tower" Bull's Eye by David de Rijke, on Flickr "To make a long story short: Some high guy wanted to hire us. The messenger seemed to say 'Victor' at a given point, but stopped abrupt and looked scared for a moment. Well, to the point. Our mission: Falconstone to the south gave hospitality to a stranger that was brought there under heavy escort. They seem to not know the danger of this man. Our client told us how this man has escaped the sack of the Dark Wizard's, and that he is a dangerous wizard himself. Those falcons wouldn't believe us, I can tell in advance. They never have been keen to see logic... We have to siege Falconstone, and kill this man. The reward? Bigger than you can ever dream off." Bull's Eye by David de Rijke, on Flickr Bull's Eye by David de Rijke, on Flickr (Here we go... A long way to go, and the story is already paving its path in my mind. Where this will end, I don't know :D) (This is a quite old build, and I have great news: got a new camera and new adjustments to my room that will be used for my next build :D) (The guy with the kanjiclub torso is the younger version of my sigfig, Davok ^^) (oh my god... while trying to play with revolword's name, I discovered its origin ONLY NOW... quite a slow catch)

If you are unaware, in some European countries a Lego Bionicle magazine was released, each issue came with a free gift, unfortunately only 2 issues were ever released, so I have created this challenge to create some gifts to "continue" the magazine. All you need to do is submit an image of your design and a small description, it must have relevance to the Bionicle 2015-2016 story and be around the size of the official gifts below. The best design will be featured in a stop-motion movie releasing next year along with a small section of the credits devoted to the winner. For inspiration here are the 2 free gifts that were released: Thanks for reading and good luck! Entries must be in by 5th January 2017