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Hereby a freebuild I've got sitting on a shelf for a looong time. In the Northwest of the Trifork, the Twins command the only river running from the Lake of the Trifork. All the other rivers are upstream from the Lake, supplying it with melting water from the cold north, rainwater from the central plains surrounding Cedrica and muddy waters from the forests of north west Kaliphlin. Via the water locks, the water level of the lake can be managed, including raising it to flood the lowlands south of the Trifork in case of attack or siege, limiting access to one metalled road, easing defenses. The water lock at the Twins is one of two, allowing traffic to pass through with minimal decrease in the water levels of the lake. The second one is upstream in the middle of the city. Apart from the towers themselves, the defenses also include a chain mechanism to block of the river (and to protect the waterlocks in times of peace). This is a build for the HSS challenge. Thanks for looking - C&C welcome
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In the middle of New Town, on the north bank of the river, the mill of the Trifork is located. Here grains from a wide area surrounding the Trifork is ground to flour before being shipped off by ship or caravan, sent to the bakeries, sold in the market, or stored in warehouses for times of need. (Or more favourable market conditions...) With a mill inside the walls, the Trifork is well-positioned to build up large stocks of grains and flour, meaning the Trifork rarely suffers in times of war and famine. Further, the traffic of grains going in and flour and bread going out, has established the Trifork as an important market for grains and related products. Avalonian wheat for north west Kaliphlin alone represent an immense volume of trade. Here the miller is loading a wagon with the last few hours of production, which will be going to the bakeries of Old Town south of the river. ====================================================================== This is a build for the HSS challenge. The mill rotates 360o degrees, so it can be turned into the wind. Further, there is a working grindstone inside, turning with the wind. Quite happy with the outcome of this, and looking forward for some feedback.
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The oldest inn in the Trifork, The crown was build for the King's messengers passing through on their way to Albion. Located in one of the nicest neighbourhoods of the Trifork, you often see the posher youths meeting nearby. While the rooms are small, the beds are comfortable, and the inn offers a measure of luxury with a large spa on the roof. Just a small build for the HSS task. Hope you enjoy it - was a fun build.
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Designed by students and funded by alumni, the Kennel of Ruadh is one of the settlement's architectural curiosities. The stained-glass canopy is a marvel of glasswork and magic, held together with enchanted githril. Here, the famed Belville mastiffs are bred and trained to serve as companions and protectors to Ruadhic artists. Locals just call it the kennel; tourists somewhat mockingly call it the Canine Cathedral. Lady Siedna and her husband Mateus pay a visit to the kennel. An artist teaches a puppy basic obedience skills while her friend looks on. Throughout the day, students muck out the kennels, a task made more difficult by mischievous young puppies. After filling the food dish with scraps, a student reaches through the fencing to play with a young pup. Meanwhile, an instructor attempts to teach proper grooming techniques to his distracted student. The kennel at sunrise. I'd like to claim UoP Credits for: - Architecture: Roofing: Roof 2/3 - General Building: Minifig Posing - Agriculture and Zoology: Raising Livestock
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The Trifork, located at the junction of several busy waterways, has long prospered from the trade of goods flowing up and down the rivers. One of the first stone structures to be raised, the main quay has long allowed ships of all sizes to dock and exchange goods and passengers. (HSS Nautical: Harbourmasters office and lighthouse & HSS Labourer: Warehouse) All harbour administration, as well as collection of tolls and dues, is handled by the harbourmaster. The stately sandstone building overlooks the port area and commands the only entrance to the quay. Due to frequent fogs on the Trifork lake, a lighthouse has been erected in connection with the harbourmasters office to lead ships safely to the port. Next to the harbourmaster, the busiest warehouse of the Trifork is located, holding most of the transit goods passing through the port. Goods intended for the city itself is normally shipped directly to merchants and warehouses in the city, but those goods waiting to be loaded onto another ship is kept safe in this warehouse. (HSS Nautical: Shipyard) Next to the quay, the local shipyard is placed. Its experienced shipwrights are renowned for their swift and manoeuvrable river crafts. Due to popular demand, the slipway is rarely empty, and many of the ships navigating the Avalonian rivers was built here. In times of war, fast and agile warships can be lauched at an impressive pace, given the proper ressources are available. (HSS Nautical: Quay and Cranes) The quay is rarely empty, and right now the Swiftsure patrol craft is being outfitted for another patrol, a merchants ship is being unloaded, and a small traders boat is docking. At times, the port is so busy that several ships que up awaiting docking space. The port is one of the key elements in the city's prosperity, and the council goes great lengths to protect its interests on the Trifork lake, as well as up and down the rivers. In the recent turmoil, rivertrade has gone up, as merchants are less vulnerable on the rivers than on the roads. Further, the river port is a great asset in times of siege, where supplies can be brought in under the nose of the besiegers. ________________________________________________________________________________ Additional photos: __________________________________________________________________________________________ A note to the photos: I found it really hard to photograph such a large build. And since photographing isn't my strongest point, the size didn't help me out. Tips are welcome, and I hope you can see past the questionable quality of the photos! Comments and criticism welcome
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As the Trifork spread accross the banks to the north side of the river, New Town appeared. During the Revolword wars, the Lord Mayor of the Trifork ordered ramparts build to ensure the safety of this new neighbourhood. These were build by setting heavy logs into the ground and stacking stone and dirt on both sides about 3 meters in height. For the top part of logs still exposed, they were reinforced by an additional row of logs and a walkway for the patrols was established behind this wall. It is manned by the now reformed militia of the Trifork, armed with fine Shadowmere steel and trained by experienced warriors. While not as formidable as a stone city wall, the ramparts are resilient to siege weapons, gives the defenders a favourable position for fighting, breaks any enemy charge, and is cheap and easy to maintain and improve. With the Drow incursions, a large battle in the nearby Wither Woods, aggressive Mitgardian dwarves, civil war in Nocturnus, and new rumours of troubles brewing in Kaliphlin, plans are being made to expand the northern defenses with a moat, wooden spikes and a number of bastions, but work has not yet commenced. The inhabitants of New Town can only hope this will not prove a catastrophic delay...
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In case anyone ever wondered why I never build anything big, the answer is Thorshaven! And for those of you who already know my city, here are some new additions: Market day in Thorshaven: In the center of Thorshaven, right at the city hall, you can find the town's market square. It's a place of commerce: and of customers obsessed with quality: It also the place to speak up and have the people hear your message: and last but not least, behind the scenes there also is a lot of hard work, like in this case the barrel maker: All in all, just the right place to be on market day: and in case you were wondering what Thorshaven actually looks like as a whole these days, here's a pic of the latest configuration:
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Decided to build another opening building like my inn. But I also wanted to get some bright colors in there. Well, it sure has been a while. This was a lot of fun to build - C&C welcome as always!
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This is my entry for Avalonian task 4, in the category of REQ-Laborers IMG_4118 by lorddan413, on Flickr This scene depicts on of several small quarries in the area surrounding the settlement of Araluen. Due to their small size, the quarries are mined by hand by workers, often working alone or in pairs. Miners load smaller stone into a barrel carried by a horse for transport back to the camp, while larger stone are dragged back by the horse. The quantity of stone provided by a single quarry is quite low, but with more than half a dozen of these quarries Araluen manages to get enough stone. Quarry Worker 2.0 by lorddan413, on Flickr Quarry w/o figs 2.0 by lorddan413, on Flickr About this build: I built this back in September, but i never got around to posting it until now. It as originally going to be part of a a larger rock face, but it didn't fit because of the SNOT and stuff, so i repurposed it and built a base. One thing i dislike about it is the green plate running underneath the rock, but I didn't catch it until way after i took the pictures. Oh yeah i named my settlement Araluen C & C welcome
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See the previous tales: Wyndor's Saga: Chapter 1 -What Has Past- Chapter 2 Part 10: A New Home Part 10.1:Blunted Edges Part 10.2: Cramped Spaces Part 10.3: Enthusiastic Worker Part 11.0 Part 11: Mysterious Death Part 12: Dark Meetings Part 13: Warm Yourself Part 14.1: Sisterly Visit Part 14.2: Proud Farmer Part 14.3: Mitgardian Household Part 15: Another Mysterious Death Part 16.1: The Council Meeting Part 16.2: Meeting with Wyndor (made by Glorfindel) Part 16.3: Feud in Teridyan Part 16.4: Great Elk Longhouse (made by Glorfindel) Part 16.5: Traveling Partners Part 17: The Cemetery Part 18: Home It was a clear Autumn day in Mitgardia. Snow was already starting to accumulate around the buildings where the shadows kept the sun away. For any Mitgardian it was the perfect weather. Valanice had already started to adjust to the cold temperatures and walked around without even noticing the cold as the rest of the city residents did. Her sisters though, found themselves shivering a little and they relished every chance they got to step indoors whenever they could. They visited the village bakery where Nora always seemed to have a worried expression on her face. Valanice explained to her sisters that it was because she was always worried that her husband was going to burn the bread. They spent the most time at the jeweler gazing at his selection of fine gems. They also walked past the blacksmith shop where the cooper had been busy banding barrels but was currently re-shoeing a horse. The girls had just finished looking at all the wares the stall owners had to offer and were listening to one of the local minstrels playing for coins and chatting with each other in the square. Valanice had picked up some food to add to their dinner and had been tempted at the one of the stalls to buy a new shovel from the dwarf that ran the shop. It would help her as she worked in the small garden around their house. There had been a lot of bustle amongst the dwarves of Dalig Ulv these days. Not only were they concerned about the recent deaths of their kind, but Valanice had also heard rumor that word had come from their council with some big decision. They were often seen huddled together discussing in animated tones. Valanice was just about to suggest to her sisters that they head back when a startled cry caught her attention. She turned to see a woman standing over an older dwarf elder and muttering under her breath. Valanice hefted her axe and prepared to charge the woman when two more women stepped up to block her path and with a flick of their wrists everyone around them was pushed back a few feet. All of a sudden four warriors rushed in to attack the three women. A half-dozen different blades were all rushing toward the nefarious women when Edea stopped focusing on the dwarf and added her mutterings to her sisters. All four warriors flew back with a burst of power. Just then, Natolyth ran up. He had just made it back to Dalig Ulv after his journey to Cedrica. He stood between the three sisters and the rest of the townsfolk with fireballs smoldering in his hands. “It’s been a long time Edea, since you had me enslaved, and I will not allow you to do likewise to any of these good people!” growled Natolyth. “I see you have not put the powers I gave you to waste Natolyth” answered Edea. “It is too bad you are not still under my control. I could do great things with your power.” “Enough!” Natolyth shouted, “I thought you were finished back in the cathedral, but obviously I did not do a good enough job of it.” “Oh, you exacted your toll well enough” said Edea, pulling back her hood and revealing her white hair. “It cost me much to recover from your attack. But my fight is not with you this time.” Turning to her sisters she said, “We have what we need, it’s time for us to go.” And with that they vanished. Valanice ran up to Natolyth and said, “You’ve arrived back home just in time!” “So it would seem” he replied. “But what is going to happen next?” OoC: I'll be claiming some HSS credits in this build for Bakery, Cooper, Blacksmith, Jeweler, and Minstrel.
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Having heard initial reports from his advicers upon assuming his position of Lord Mayor of the Trifork, Beorthan is presented a dilemma. While the Trifork is in dire need for reform, a delegate from Shadowmere, under the rule of Nocturnian loyalist Lord Vladivus, has arrived, requesting Beorthan’s attendance in Shadowmere to discuss a treaty. Beorthan has decided to heed the invitation, despite doubts as to Lord Vladivus’s motives, the complicated situation in Nocturnus, and his new office. He puts his old friend, sir William Drake, in charge of country administration, and his bodyguard Marcus in charge of training and equipping the militia. He then sets out, accompanied by his other bodyguard Cassius, his Nocturnian scout Tauro, and the Shadowmere delegate. They exit the town by the south gate early in the morning as the gates are opening and the first traffic starts rushing up and down the busy street. The Great South Gate stands watch over the busy south road leading to Cedrica, Nocturnus, and Kaliphlin, and is the most prominent defensive structure in the city walls surrounding the Trifork. It is one of the busiest traffic nodes, being part of the shortest route between Cedrica, Nocturnus, and large parts of Kaliphlin, and Albion, the Avalonian capital. The walls are sturdy but low, as the south road is the only firm land in the meadowy wetlands south of the Trifork. The heavy gate is suspended from the gatehouse like a portcullis, which allows it to be deployed swiftly. Thanks for reading/looking, all! This is my largest GoH build sofar, and also probably my personal favourite. I tried to improve my landscaping, and although simple, I think it turned out pretty well. The gatehouse have (sparse) interiors on the 1st floor, while the ground floor is massive apart from two niches for guards inside the gate-opening. The gate it self is operated by a working winch and the roof comes off in a modular fashion. Further, I stole a lot of techniques in the builds I have seen here in GoH, bit still think I ended up with something pretty original. You can find a few more pics here. C&C more than welcome /Bregir
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Greetings, Historicans I am working on putting my lands on the map, and in that process, I have built the farm presented below. I am quite happy with it, but as always, landscaping isn't my strongest side. I have tried photographing in the sun, which I think turned out reasonably well. I am still new here and eager to learn, so please let me know what you think. In the lands of the Trifork, in Avalonia, near the border to Kaliphlin and the heartlands of Historica surrounding Cedrica, even peace is unruly. Living outside the protective walls of the Trifork itself is risky at best, with Outlaws from several lands, mercenaries between hires, as well as all sorts of shady types roaming the lands, on their way by the busy roads that links so much of Historica. Consequently, the few who dares, and even fewer who succeeds, are bound to reap great benefits off the lush riverlands. One such man is Ser William Drake, recent heir of Drakeshome Manor, a fortified countryside mansion in the midst of some of the most fertile lands of Historica. The entrance to the manor is at the foot of the stone tower, through a heavy, iron hinged oak door under a strong stone arch. The small windows of the tower are barred with sturdy metal bars, and it is evident that only a determined and well-equipped enemy will be able to breach its way into the manor. From the battlements of the third floor of the tower, the defenders will be able to rain arrows and stones unto anyone daring to try, delaying the attackers for long enough for reinforcements to arrive from the Trifork. At the back, two residential wings rest upon the stone barns, in which the cattle and pigs are kept safe from the elements. Drakeshome is one of the main producers of beef, dairy, and pork in the area, selling their wares almost exclusively at the markets of the Trifork. But Drakeshome Manor delivers more than livestock, as its fields on the lush riverplains have some of the highest yields of corn, grain, and turnip. At harvest, volunteers in great numbers arrive from the Trifork and beyond, helping to bring the invaluable foodstuffs home. Below a few more pics: The build is modular, to allow access to the (sparse) interior. The tower also comes off. Here the base of the build with all modules removed. I would like to claim the following UoP Credits: Agriculture and Zoology three of: crop farming raising livestock Further, this should count as Agriculture - Grains and Produce and Agriculture - Livestock for the HSS task. C&C more than welcome.
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The Northern Gate to Vanguard opens onto the wharf where a number of piers are available for the ferry service and for sale to the public. This section is the first of 3-4 sections I will be doing to complete the Northern Gate of Vanguard. Wolfar waving to his brother on the shore as the Bern children run and play on the wharf. Lucinda tending to her horse. The rowers docking the ferry. Atlas stands by and has come to receive his next order of iron-works from the council. Dock detail The records hut where people list themselves to enter Vanguard. Dock spaces are also bought here. Thanks to soccerkid for the technique. Wall detail Back view with guards. Thanks for viewing!
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Blackberry field and winery at Thorshaven HSS Hospitality: Winery The climate in Mitgardia restricts the range of producible fruits. (Have you ever heard of Mitgardian bananas or pineapple?). Even grape doesn't grow here, but this doesn't mean that these bearded men are without a good booze. There are fruits that withstand the colder weather and wine can be made of it: blackberry! In the southern border of Mitgardia the temperature rarely goes below 0 °C, which is perfect for this black fruit. There are extended blackberry fields just outside of the walls of Thorshaven. The precious wine is sought all over Historica, so many barrel filled with this red gold is carried by merchant ships in the port of Thorshaven.
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HSS: Streets of Barqa Barqa is the trading hub of south-western Kaliphlin. The city is located where the mighty Arkbri river meets the sea. The Arkbri river stretches all the way from the mountains of Mitgardia and is a major shipping route through central Historica. Barqa is a melting pot of people and cultures from all points of the compass, and dozens of different languages can be heard in the streets. The proud City Guard of Barqa is in peacetime mostly a constabulary force, which is not to say that they are lacking work… Some guards are of course also manning the walls, but this one don’t seem to be paying attention to what is outside the wall? Aha, he is admiring one of the many lovely...gardens of Barqa! Today, de Gothia is visiting his son Elijah who is studying in Barqa. He also meets with Lord Gideon, who is eager to hear about the achievements of the Kaliphlin artisans he has sent north to help de Gothia building the town of Sionnach. Elijah has already grown tired of the lengthy discussion of the grownups and is instead investigating a statue of some hero of old. Bishop Sheyer of the Aslanic Order is also passing by, always travelling with an armed escort. Many of Barqa’s inhabitants, some would say the majority, cannot afford living quarters with their own kitchen. For them, simple establishments as this one are the place to go to get a bowl of soup or something to drink on the go. HSS Hospitality: Fast food Barqa is well known for the excellent quality of the glasswares produced here. Like many other craftsmen and merchants of the city, this glass blower has a small shop along one of the covered sidewalks. These roofs provide protection from the sun during most of the year, and protection from the torrential rain in that season. HSS Craftsmen, General Goods: Glass Blower While black oil is the usual source of lighting in Kaliphlin, candles are considered a luxury which many people want to use to impress their visitors with. Especially the many temples and shrines of the various religions represented in Barqa are demanding candles in great numbers. HSS Merchant, Specialty: Candle Maker With Barqa being such a busy trade hub with traders coming from all over Historica and beyond, the cartographers of Barqa are among the finest in Historica. Today, this cartographer has stepped down from his studio upstairs and is providing maps to the city’s inhabitants and visitors. HSS Services: Cartographer The movements of the celestial bodies are closely observed by the scholars of Barqa. This particular astronomer is excellent at determining the exact time of day, and has built a clock tower to share this information with the city. Indeed, this clock is de facto the standard for time in Barqa. HSS Scholars: Observatory/Astronomer In many places in the city, music can be heard from the city's numerous musicians. HSS Entertainers: Street Musicans The frequent traffic with horses and oxen means that streets can get very dirty, despite the efforts of the cleaning workers. During the short but intense rain season, the streets can also be turned into something which looks more like canals when the drainage system is pushed to its limits. Therefore, most streets have stepping stones where pedestrians can cross without getting too dirty or wet. Many children like to play on the city walls, sometimes even daring to go up into the towers. The guards are of course not happy with this practice... The roofs are important parts of the homes where people spend a lot of their time. Here, a mother is feeding her daughter with a slice of a giant apple, fresh from the orchards of southern Avalonia. When the searing sun is getting low in the sky the city really comes to life. The streets, homes and shops are lit by numerous oil lanterns. There are a sizeable population of humanoids with Nocturnian origin in Barqa, many of them exiles from the internal Nocturnian power struggles. Soraya the assassin is hiding in the shadows, could it be one of these she is after? Some more pictures of the build: UoP credits claimed: Marketplace [Trade and Law] Arresting Criminals [Trade and Law] Music [Culture] As this is a massive build, as you see I tried to include quite a few HSS categories. If any of these is not good enough here, I do can skip that claim and re-visit the category some other time. I will display this build at the Lego Fan Weekend in Skaerbaek, Denmark, this coming weekend. I hope I will see some of you there!
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Beneath the rocky outcrops and plateaus surrounding Shadowmere are the mines of the Nocturnian Dwarves who produce much of the stone and ore for Shadowmere. These mines are often rough and ready, and the dwarves are prepared to retreat in the face of the frequent Drow raids. Patrolled by swift Dwarven warriors on warg mounts, the mines have an early warning system of sorts. It is one of these mines that Vladivus visits today, alongside his hope for a consort, the ancient, immortal vampiress, Lady Sithanna. Vladivus: "As you can see, these mines are not particularly extensive, or well worked- the dwarves are simply not numerous enough to fend off the Drow, skilled warriors though they may be. My zombies struggle down here, where their numbers count for little in the narrow tunnels." Lady Sithanna: "And you are hoping that I would lend you my Man-bat soldiers, who were bred in darkness and caves, and thus suited to these battles? Do I not strike to the heart of the matter my love?" Vladivus: "Perceptive as ever. You know as well as I do that it would do well- not to mention that an alliance of the vampires of Nocturnus would strike fear into Ravaage. Lord Mortis already aligns himself with Shadowmere." Before Sithanna could reply, a dwarven Captain mounted upon a warg burst into the cavern. Captain Dhumkaz: "M'Lord... and er Lady, I apologise..." Lady Sithanna: "Spit it out dwarf!" The dwarf's eyes narrowed, and he spoke pointedly to Vladivus. Captain Dhumkaz: "My Lord, Angfauglir approaches. Your scouts report that he appears to be alone, but they cannot be sure." Lord Vladivus: "Well, a surprise I suppose. I didn't think that wretch would risk coming here, even if he's on the run from Senurhem and Ravaage. Aye, I will meet him. Send messengers to Lord Mortis and have him meet us here. Sithanna, I trust you will be comfortable in your quarters until this matter is resolved?" Sithanna: "Yes, I suppose. The wolf and the necromancer will have to fill me in on the rest." So, this build is my first proper attempt at SNOT rocks, using kabels tutorial. I'm not happy with the build, and it's gone through several revisions (including a massive tower on top of the rocks), but it began getting tedious, so here it is. I might revisit the mines at some point and try to improve. An entry for HSS: Labourers. C+C very much welcome!
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West Stedor has been renovated. The wall, gate and towers may look the same as the previous ones, now they are stronger and have a better foundation. All the buildings in West Stedor have been replaced and put on a higher level. Now the ground level functions as stockage room. Avalonia, Mitgardia and Nocturnus have their individual stockageroom where their members can store goods. There are also 3 Kaliphlin stockagerooms. They can be recognised by the heralds of Eastgate (for West Kaliphlin), Petraea (Middle Kaliphlin) and Qarkyr (East Kaliplin). The buildings itself are different shops. The red building houses a bakery and a cartographer. The darkblue house has a butcher and cooper in it and under the arches people can buy fruit. The dark orange building is well know for their smiths, stonecutters and painters (most of them coming from Ruadh!). The green building is the very famous "Horses Head Inn". Under the Inn are stables. Not only the white striped buildings are a citymark of Stedor, also the mozaic roofs made of dried flowers are known in every corner of the world. As major Historican trading port, Mpya Stedor has cranes to lift heavy cargo. (note: it really works!) In the Market Area you can almost buy everything!! Some good wine? Check! Or a new fancy cape? Check! Or you need some barrels to store your food in? Check!! Let's see what the Market Area can offer you: - Ale seller from Mitgardia - Baker - Butcher - Cape maker (with spinningweel) - Cartographer - Cooper - Fish & Seafruits - Fruits & Vegetables - Inn - Painter - Stonecutter making statues - Weapons - Winery There is also a fortuneteller telling you everything you want to hear! After walking under the huge Main Gate of Stedor, you are welcomed by a very vibrating Main Square. People are meeting eachother here or saying goodbye, adventurers are dropping a tear before leaving the city, ... It all happens around the fountain under the Statue of Liberty. Another very popular attraction are the Warrior Games in front of the "Champions Guild". Many famous Historicans are watching now a game between a Mitgardian and a Jungle Of Gorr Warrior. Lord Damaximus is standing on the balcony of the "Champions Guild" (aka Alleenridders Palace), having a nice view over West Stedor. In front of him, workers are building a small temple. And if all the activity makes you thirsty? Well go get a beer in the Horses Head Inn!! Under the "Horses Head Inn" are the stables of West Stedor. Easily recognisable by the Camel wall painting next to it. In the lower right corner, you see a part of the construction site. As MAESTRO needed more space, they have converted the West Gate into their Headquarter. Here their traders and soldiers come and go with goods and gold. Different views of the city I had many positive comments at Brickmania Limburg about this part of my city. I hope you like it as well :) Thanks for watching! C&C is ofcourse welcome! Maxim I Note: I believe I am the first one using flowers as roofing technique. There are in Hungary and Poland buildings (mostly churches) with mozaic in their roofs, making it very colourfull and extrely beautifull. Note 2: For the University of Petraea I like to claim more than 3 credits because of the size of the MOC (it are smaller 3 48x48 baseplates + 1 32x80 + 4 32x32 MOCs): - Architecture: roofing (the flowers) - Architecture walls: SNOT tiled walls (the camel and doors) - Architecture roofrakes (the white roofrakes of the Horses Head Inn) - Architecture Advanced windows (the fences as windows, the double windows, ...) - General Building: Movement-enabled (the crane on the docks and the crane of the workshop) - Trade & Law: manufactering - Culture : Art Note 3: West and East Stedor will be showed together at Brickmania Antwerp 2014 (15 & 16 November) as part of a huge (8x8 meter) castle lay-out, so be sure to come to there and check this out! Note 4: the pictures were taking during Brickmania Limburg. That's why the lightening is not perfect. Anyway, thanks to Lt. Hornblower & Sebeus for holding the black sail behind the MOC!
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The line forms every morning, and Madame Celeste hops over the counter to her fortune-telling shop and reads fortunes in the cards. She reads for any who visit her. Some pay well, and some pay nothing. She says this way, she doesn't feel responsible when she has to deliver bad news. Mme Celeste: "First, we have the Sun card. This represents achievement and joy in your life" Harry: "Yes! I just got a promotion, and my lady friend agreed to marry me!" Mme Celeste: "And then. . .Uh oh. The Tower." Harry: "Is that bad?" Mme. Celeste: "It means your whole world is going to come crashing down, something really important to you will be destroyed." Harry: "Oh no!" ----- Mme Celeste was lucky to find this crescent-shaped rock formation just outside of the Ruadhi market. How she convinced the masons to carve out the space, and then construct the building, remains a mystery. Hell, we're not even sure her name's really Celeste. We kind of doubt it. I have mixed feelings about this build. I'm not really happy with the shape of the back of the build, but taking it apart without destroying the whole build proved difficult. Fortunately, great suggestions from the guild (yay Kaliphlin!) help to disguise the problem areas. I keep reminding myself that this was supposed to be a quick "fun" build, and that the next build will be another opportunity to work on studs-up rocks. I tried using a different camera, my old DSLR, for these. The color balance is better than my phone -- tan looks tan! Yay! -- but I'm really not in love with the noise, and I need to mess with some of the manual settings. I'd like to claim UoP credits for Architecture: Roofing (approved) and Architecture: Round Walls and Towers (denied).
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A bleak sun rises over a black citadel, and two Kaliphlinites approach the West Gate of Shadowmere. The gate, however, is currently shut. A voice, sharp and growling sounds from the crenellations above the gate. "Halt, and move to one side". The voice came from a leopardman watch officer atop the walls. The Kaliphlinites duly moved off the road, and to one side, puzzled by this request. The gates swung open, revealing a mighty werewolf, none other than General Fenrir Bloodcloak himself, marching forth at the head of a line of Shadowmere Guard. The guard were mainly comprised of spearmen, their livery of red and black distinctive. To one side, accompanied by their bodyguards, were Lord Vladivus of Shadowmere, and Sir Beorthan of the Trifork. Vladivus: "So, we have an accord? Shadowmere will send trade representatives to the Trifork? Nocturnian forged armour and weapons will certainly aid you." Beorthan: "Aye, especially if they are as well wrought as your warriors have equipped here. They are certainly a force to be reckoned with, if not exactly living!" Vladivus: "Heh, not all of my troops are raised from the dead back to the living, although it certainly makes life easier. Look." A line of human troops in a blue livery marched by, their armour and weapons dull, but the edges keen and eager for blood. Beorthan: "Who are they? Not in the colours of Shaowmere?" Vladivus: "They are Black Falcons, led by Eothain the Mad. After the death of his brother, Eothed the Mighty, at Strangeholt Tower, he has sworn fealty to me, and not the Black Spire. These troops head to Abyssian, to bolster the loyalist Nocturnians." Vladivus: "Come, let us follow them to the gate, and I will bid thee farewell." Beorthan: "Indeed, this is proving to be a prosperous alliance." Vladivus: "Farewell then, I shall send scouts with you to ensure safe passage back through the Kelra Labyrinths, although I am sure you and Cassius would be able to handle most of the challenges within!" Beorthan: "My thanks Vla..." The two Kaliphlintes who had been stood outside of the gate as the troops filed past, approached, causing Beorthan to trail off and eye these newcomers with interest. Kaliphlinite: "Hail Vladivus, I am a follower of Masa of Kaliphin, and this is Lysus the Leander. We seek the Aslanic Temple within your walls." Vladivus: "Welcome, you may pass." To Beorthan: "Farewell my friend, safe journey!" With that, the Kaliphlinites wntered the citadel of Shadowmere... ... And Beorthan of the Trifork left. A vendor sells iron swords, forged by Nocturnian dwarves... ... Whilst a Shkyklyk vendor sells fish by the barrel. More sinisterly, a hooded figure wielding a large axe prepares to perform an execution on the Death Sands. Overview: Front overview. Rear overview. EDIT: Bonus picture of the Black Falcons: So, my biggest moc to date! C+C Welcome! And thanks to Bregir for the use of his sig-fig!
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After taking over a disused warehouse in the old town, a former travelling Ale merchant sat down shop and filled the warehouse with barrels of the finest ales from all over Historica. As customers started to trickle in, wishing to taste the wares before purchase, the merchant refurbished the upper floor of the warehouse to cater for this new need. As business picked up, the building was decorated, reflecting the rising wealth of the merchant. People of all kinds started to be attracted to the building and the smell of fine ales. Some visitors asked to taste several different brews, but never seemed interested when the merchant started talking about placing larger orders. In fact, they seemed perfectly content to enjoy the ales on site. A keen business man, the merchant decided to set up a side business, opening a tavern. Afterall, the ales were already easily available. _____ Hereby a HSS entry for Hospitality and Merchant for the Trifork. C&C welcome.
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Maintaining a town, even a village, requires lumber in vast amounts, and the Trifork is not an exception. Its many homes must be heated, its craftsmen and builders requires raw materials, and its shipyards requires lumber. Therefore, some of the strongest arms and sturdiest backs of the Trifork venture to the forests surrounding the lake, where from the lumber can be transported floating by sea to the city. Near the banks, where the ground is sandy, the trees do not grow as tall as further inland, but for firewood and simpler materials, the convenience of easy transport more than makes up for it. The lumberjacks grow harsh and strong with the hard work, but are well-liked in town for the hard work they do for the populace of the Trifork, and for the money they spend in the taverns and shops when off duty. _____________ This is an entry for the labourer category in the HSS task. I experimented a bit with different tree types, and in hindsight it may have given too diverse a forest. I rather like the tree about to be felled in the last pic C&C welcome as always
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See the previous tales: Wyndor's Saga: Chapter 1 -What Has Past- Chapter 2 Part 10: A New Home Part 10.1:Blunted Edges Part 10.2: Cramped Spaces Part 10.3: (You're Here!) The last group of the Militia that Wyndor visited that day were the cavalry. He talked with the lead rider about the men and the horses. “You wouldn’t believe how much planning there goes into keeping a stable up and running!” exclaimed the rider. “You have to keep track of how much the horses are eating and what they have already eaten; you have to make sure the stables are mucked out at regular intervals; you have to make sure they get regular exercise but not too much exercise; and the list goes on! I’ll have to get you up to date on the dietary plans for each of the horses first…” “Hold on there!” Wyndor interrupted. “I’m not planning on replacing you, I’m just here to help.” “Well, that’ll make organization easier to maintain I must admit” the rider responded. “I have a very organized way of doing things that all the men and horses are very used to. I imagine it’d be pretty hard on them if things were to change suddenly. Here, let me show you around.” Wyndor could tell that he took his job very seriously and was glad he could leave the “important organizational details” in someone else’s hands. However, it seemed that there was much to do in the way of training. So he got started right away.
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See the previous tales: Wyndor's Saga: Chapter 1 -What Has Past- Chapter 2 Part 10 (You're Here!) Part 10.1: Blunted Edges Part 10.2: Cramped Spaces Part 10.3: Enthusiastic Worker Wyndor and company arrived in Dålig Ulv and he immediately asked for Pjeter. He was directed towards the town hall and there saw his old acquaintance. “Ho there Pjeter!” said Wyndor. “Well laddie! Times have been good to you. Welcome to Dålig Ulv” replied Pjeter. “So, what have you been up to?” asked Wyndor. “You’ve come a long way from serving on a trade barge.” “Aye, now I’m a reputable land owner. They elected me mayor just last year. But since then an entrepreneur named Lief has moved here from Erikson and has caused me no small amount of grief!” said Pjeter. “Well, it sounds like we have much to discuss then. Where can we go to talk in private?” asked Wyndor. “I have a study here in the town hall. But, before we go in I must ask you, where did you get one of the breastplates of the Blue Wolf Clan?” inquired Pjeter. “What? This? I got this ages ago in Northridge. I’m familiar with the Wolf Clans and the Wolfpack mercenaries, but who are the Blue Wolves?” responded Wyndor. “They are a radical group of misfits who have taken up residence near Dålig Ulv I’m afraid” said Pjeter. “They started as a splinter group from the local Wolfpack riffraff and are led by a renegade from the Wolf Clans. Hence their name. Normally they don’t cause too much trouble, but recently their, uh, demonstrations have grown more aggressive. They have no set standard of armor as they come from all over, but the breastplate you wear is used by some of their elite and is a symbol of fear here.” “I have worn this armor over hundreds of miles and all four guilds Pjeter,” said Wyndor. “I am not about to abandon it simply because it has a negative association here. I will just have to give them a better association with it.” As they were talking another man walked up and interrupted their conversation. “I take it this is your new lackey Pjeter” said the stranger. “Ah, yes, Wyndor this is Lief” said Pjeter. “It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance sir” said Wyndor as he held out his hand. Lief ignored Wyndor’s hand and said to Pjeter, “So you’re filling our council with local radicals now Pjeter?” “Lief, as I’ve told you before, you are not on the council. You are a valuable member of our community because of the financing you have done for our militia and shop owners, but you hold no sway over who I appoint to the council” said Pjeter. “Well, that remains to be seen” Lief said as he turned and walked away. “I can see what you mean about him causing trouble” said Wyndor. The next day Pjeter introduced Wyndor to the town. They stood on the platform in front of the town hall which faced an open courtyard in the center of the city. “Good people of Dålig Ulv, I present to you the newest member of our council” Pjeter announced in his thick rolling accent. “He has traveled much of Historica and has fought many battles with a true heart. He will be taking charge of our militia and training with them to ensure that we are prepared for anything.” Wyndor stepped up to speak. He was slightly nervous as he had never had this level of responsibility before. But he had asked his brothers to accompany him today and had one other person whom he had written to before arriving in Dålig Ulv whom he knew would be of great help as well. He began to address the crowd of townsfolk who had cared enough to assemble, “Good people, I am Wyndor Grahamson and I am glad to be a part of this fair city. I hope to be able to add my knowledge to your own and cause some good in Dålig Ulv.” There was a murmur running through the crowd and Wyndor knew he would have to address something right away. “Many of you may be asking why I wear a symbol of rebellion. Long before the Blue Wolf Clan started troubling these lands, back when we were all suffering from the actions of Victor Revolword, I began a journey across all of Historica. This armor may be a symbol for rebels to you, but to me it is a symbol of protection against my attackers. I hope you will give me the chance to prove myself by my actions before judging me by my armaments. Now, I would be amiss to promise you that I could handle all of the responsibility you have granted me by myself. I’d like to introduce you to my two brothers who will be aiding me in training the militia.” Natolyth and Chalin walked up and give a short introduction. The people seemed especially impressed with Chalin who had learned how to charm the crowds while fighting in Kaliphlin. After their introductions Wyndor made one more introduction. “I would also like to introduce you a personal advisor I’ve asked to join me here in Dålig Ulv. His name is Liam and he taught me much of what I know about fighting.” Liam stepped up and just stared at the crowd. Wyndor could tell they were a little uncomfortable with having a Cyclops living amongst them, but he knew they would grow to like the old weapons master. Wyndor gave some final remarks and then stepped away from the crowd as Pjeter gave some mayoral updates. He stood next to Liam and said, “Thank you for coming on such short notice Liam.” “Hmprf, and miss a chance to see one of my students either shine or make a fool of himself?” Liam replied. “I would never miss it!” “Well, regardless of your confidence in me, I will be glad to have you here” answered Wyndor.
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In carn, the main livestock is sheep. I don't know why but it is. :) HSS: Carn Farmers by TheUtilityBelt32, on Flickr HSS: Carn Farmers by TheUtilityBelt32, on Flickr More on my flickr. First HSS build, so I hope you like it!
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See the previous tales: Wyndor's Saga: Chapter 1 -What Has Past- Chapter 2 Part 10: A New Home Part 10.1:Blunted Edges Part 10.2: (You're Here!) Part 10.3: Enthusiastic Worker The archers had a barracks of their own where they housed their training gear. There was some room for archers to live there if needed, but it was a cramped place. Wyndor worked with what he had though and asked the city’s archers to shown him what they were capable of. They started by shooting with short bows at close targets. There wasn’t much else they could do in the archers’ barracks. The rest would have to be done in the archery fields outside the city walls. After they were done with the short bows Wyndor asked Chalin to teach the archers about knife throwing. “Sometimes you won’t always have time to get your bow strung and an arrow notched before your attacker is upon you” Chalin was saying. “It’s always good to have a backup method of defending yourself.” “That’s why I practice my swordsmanship” one of the archers piped up. “Swords are a good weapon to be familiar with, trust me, I know. But a sword also means you allow your attacker to get close to you. If you know how to throw a knife, you’ll keep your enemy from getting close enough to do you as much harmer as you can do to him” Chalin responded. Liam leaned over to Wyndor and said, “Your brother has great skill. Did he by chance learn from one of my brothers?” “You have brothers?” Wyndor asked. “I didn’t know that. However, I don’t think he’s run across any of them. He learned his skill out of necessity in the Kaliphlin fighting pits.” “Perhaps you should have taken a turn in them yourself. Maybe you could have learned a thing or two that even I couldn’t have taught you” Liam responded.
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