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(due to lack of time, I post this as a freebuild instead of Categorie C of our last challanges) Is this the end of this Era? Hemresa, Narbilu and his men was preparing for the final battle with the Spire. The Tower of Doom was set to travel to the north east corner of their controlled land to wipe away their border post to give access to the army to finish the job. One last good night of sleep before the journey. In the midst of the night a large explosion woke everybody up. A mushroom cloud lit up the square where the Tower of Doom used to be standing. Everyone, not caught by the explosion, rushed towards the burning structure. The fire and destruction was massive. everyone was there except their leader, Narbilu. An observant officer noticed that and send two guards to his tents, when the church bells started to sound. Odd for this time of night and even stranger, because everyone was watching the blazing tower. The officer send two other guards to check it out. When the two entered the church, a gruesome scene wrote a nightmare in their memories. The Lord of Hemresa was nailed to the main cross behind the altar. The Spire was one step ahead of them, was this their victory? Was this the end of Historica as we know it? - to be continued -
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While Lord Nar Bilu spends his days rebuilding his city on Hemresa, he sends out his great great grandson (future Narbilu, or the Green Shade as he was named here) to try and find out what is happening in Nocturnus. Weeks passed, roaming the wild woodlands and swamps of Nocturnus ground until an anomaly appeared. Narbilu reacted somewhat startled at first, but quickly he recognised the ghostly form. It was the commander of the fallen Avalonian warriors. It only spoke a few clear words “War already started, take this home now, haste back”. It handed a letter to Narbilu. A bit disoriented Narbilu turned his head to see where the ghost went, but he had vanished in thin air. The ground beneath his feet started shaking and as Narbilu jumped aside a large bonelike monster erupted from beneath the soil. It hovered a few feet above the ground, patiently awaiting Narbilu’s response. As Narbilu saw that the beast meant no harm, he threw a rope around the neck of the beast and climbed his back. Swiftly the animal flew away, clearly heading west. Back home. For more pictures, check my FlickR account
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As the Green Shade returns and hands Lord Nar Bilu the letter from he fallen warriors, he looks sad. Again their assistance is required outside Avalonia. Maybe even a battle for life and death of Historica as we know it. He assembles his entire army, speaks to them with words of encouragement and honour. They all line up and march east, leaving Hemresa behind...
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The Civil war and the events which occurred on Hemresa left a lot of folk in despair. The elves took over the Avalonian island with the help of the dark and vicious drow. Every man, creature and other inhabitant of Hemresa was enslaved by those ruling the island. Nar Bilu was banished to the island of Norra and disappeared when he faced the wars in Kaliphlin. Recently he was released of his curse by his future great grandson and together they travelled back to Hemresa to reclaim their heritage. The tremendous amount of loyal followers gave them the opportunity to fight off the elves and gain control of the greater part of Hemresa. This event reached the outer parts of the island, freeing the slaves and giving Nar Bilu the opportunity to make new alliances with the races of the island. Now it is time to pay some respect to those who fouled the pride of Avalonia. Nar Bilu decided to take a hand full of archers and footmen to Nocturnus. The drow will have to face their trial. Out of the northern, rocky part of Hemresa came an unexpected alliance. Those of the Giants of Rock. A strong ally who will surely make the difference. The master builders of Avalonia designed an armour for the Giant and together with the army they faced the Kelra Labyrinth. With the towering creature looking over the walls, every challenge was dealt with and almost in a straight line they found their way into Nocturnus. Ready for a fight!
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Grant a wish After the debacle of the spell, causing a black hole sprouting fallen spirits into Historica, the one taking up the position of leadership called (the future Narbilu) to him. As a grateful gesture for their release, he would grant him a wish. And although Narbilu opened the portal to get home to the future, he paused. The past couple of weeks he found out that his ancestor had vanished after the Kaliphlin Civil Wars. He wished for Nar Bilu to return home, to Hemresa. Remove the curse The room filled with a blinding light. A split second later the two found themselves inside a tomb. A manlike figurine was dead or resting on a large stone altar. Up close they saw the leader of the Wingless Serpents, of which Narbilu read a lot during his travels in Historica. The creature seems to be hibernating. The ghost wizard asked Narbilu to leave the tomb and wait outside. Generations apart meet Narbilu grabbed his gear and walked out the tomb, passing dozens of hibernating Wingless Serpent warriors until the sunlight and the harsh temperatures of the Kaliphlin desert struck his face. Fortunately a small group of palm trees gave him the shade he desperately yearned for. Moments later a second person exited the tomb. A majestic person, in full armour closed on Narbilu. He presented himself as Nar Bilu, Lord of Hemresa, Defender of the Southern Forests, Lord of Avalonia. (Future) Narbilu introduced himself as Green Shade, ranger of Avalonia, in search of a lost leader. Nar Bilu was pleased to be released of his curse, but disappointed he had to leave his army behind. They talked for a while and then set course back home. Set foot in Avalonia There is a lot to do in Avalonia before he can reclaim his heritage, Hemresa. They had to keep low when they returned to Avalonia, not alarming the return of a Lord. An army has to be forged to expel the occupiers. Green Shade and Nar Bilu became friends during their travels. The plan was to split up when they set foot on Hemresa and search for followers. Followers of the Lord of Hemresa. People who are willing to fight for their freedom. On both ends they seem successful. Nar Bilu even met a couple who directed him to go north, to the encampment called Backom. Which was build out of the ruins of Bow’s Arch, one of Nar Bilu’s projects when he was facing the civil war in Avalonia. With a smile on his face, he sets forth his journey. Not forgotten by his folk and still the acknowlegded leader of Hemresa.
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The Battle for the Enchanted Forest Book II - Challenge II - Category C Unfortunately the numbers were to big to hold them back long enough to prepare for battle. Nar'Bilu heard a disturbing sound. Screeming of elves, breaking trees and battle cries filled the air with a terrifying thunder. The war started. A massive monster under the control of a dark mage, tore hole in our walls enabeling the drow to breach our lands. When our walls were beaten, darkskinned blademen entered Hembrygga killing the frontline of our defence. Nar'Bilu rushed to the battlefront summoning every swordsmen he had available, pushing the drow back to the field. It took only a few minutes before the field was covered with bodies, from both sides. But the drow did not expect the Hemresa Legion... they thought they would fight only elves. Hundreds would die, but the forest entrance was saved. We were victorious. -
At the request some fellow Avalonians, I present: Hembrugga: an elven settlement at the far corner of Hemresa. This settlement splits the Enchanted Forest from the Mystic Islands to mainland Avalonia and is considered a strategic home for all those fey that want easy access to both worlds. overview east wall gates west wall great hall
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The journey to Hembrygga Prologue Nar’Bilu and his worthy friends sit around the table in his tent, judging the progress of Bow’s Arch and discussing strategy against the upcoming threat of the Drow. They leave the tent for chow. While the others eat, Nar’Bilu takes the time to stroll around the building sites. The warehouse is finished, dwarves stoutly work and protect this facility. Nar takes the time to make small talk and get status reports with the dwarven elder. He thanks the dwarf and heads to the seaside, where a group of half elves inhabit the fishery. At the time Nar’Bilu arrives, a full load of the fattest fish is pulled ashore. Another full week of fish at the dinner table. “It’s better than just berries”; Nar’Bilu thinks. The delivery of meat is thin, common folk is just scared to travel great distances. Afraid to be ambushed by the vicious Drow. The third building site Nar’Bilu visits, is the most important one, for the moment. The start of the main gate and it’s walls. All craftsmen are momentarily at these grounds. It is important to finish this, before the black spread of Drow arrive on our beloved Hemresa. And recent reports tell us they are not far. They have reached Hemgång already. Back at chow, Nar’Bilu was exactly in time to fill one final plate of food, before all was consumed. With a piece of burned fish hanging from his lips, two guards arrive with a third party. A hooded man, holding a sealed letter from Lord Simon in his hand. Nar’Bilu recognises the seal of the Avalonian Great Lord, so the guards are dismissed and the hooded man is welcomed at the table. A few scraps are shoved on a plate and handed to the messenger. In return he hands Nar’Bilu the letter, which he takes with him to his tent. Again he and his loyal servants take place at the table, when Nar’Bilu folds the letter open: Loyal Avalonian Lord Nar’Bilu of Hemresa, It is no news that the Drow have invested Avalonian mainland, and it seems that they are seeking passage over the shortest landpath to the Enchanted Forest. Unfortunately that is Hemresa. Only in a few days time they will reach your Southern Tower, as you call it. Protect it with your life, the life of your followers and even the lives of any farmer, fisherman or other craftsman you have available. Go immediately with every available soldier to protect the path into Avalonia. Sincerely, Grand Lord Simon Leaving for The Southern Tower The dwarves are ordered to stay and protect Bow’s Arch, while every possible half-elf and elf with bow and sword is summoned to travel with Nar’Bilu to the east. A procession of uncountable green suited soldiers march past the building site of Bow’s Arch heading to The Southern Tower. The high pace covers a lot of ground and before dawn the outlines of the tower show above the mountain, which it is build against. At the end of this path is a passage into the mountain, into The Southern Tower. Every step they come closer the building rises, but the dark silhouette doesn’t fade away. Nar’Bilu sends two scouts ahead to check the situation. It felt like only moments later, when one of them return. Tears roll down their cheeks and almost breathless they try to explain that a dark flag is raised over the tower. They managed to sneak in a secret entrance to investigate. But we are too late, Drow took the east coast of Hemresa. A large army within the walls and a small dozen ships lie not far from the shore. After a short deliberation, Nar’Bilu decides to head back to Bow’s Arch, to make sure the rest of the island will stay in Avalonian hands. He rallies the elves together and in a skirmished formation, the army of woodmen take a sidetrack through the rough forest of Hemresa. It will be less likely to be caught by surprise this way. As if the wind was on their side, the footmen progressed within a day time back to the building site. Already from a distance, a bright light rose up above the trees. A couple of dwarves crawled from a dark corner of a hill where the men stood still to evaluate. It is told that dwarves can’t cry, but that myth evaporates by the second the dwarf started talking, taking long breaths: Lord Nar’Bilu, the hour you and the longears departed, we were ambushed by surely a hundred dark skinned. They burned everything to the ground. We could hold the warehouse till sunrise, but they were with too many. Lord, blood was shed without remorse, all my brothers are killed. The few that were strong enough to survive the blows of arrows or blades are taken hostage, to become slaves. Lord, there is no way back to Bow’s Arch, there is no way back for Avalonia. We are heading for the shores, in the hope to find a Mitgardian merchant ship without being slaughtered on our way there, so we can find refuge in the save mountains. Godspeed m’Lord. The few surviving dwarves head back to the hill they came from and shelter in the cave it offers. Nar’Bilu and the elven commander stick their heads together: Nar’Bilu: Commander Vidkvist, we are betrayed, the messenger led us away from the only possibility to stand ground on Hemresa. We must retaliate. But a hundred may not be impossible to handle, but it is useless to fight our way through, if the possibility arises that only a few of us will stay alive to keep Bow’s Arch. One way or the other, we must gain numbers before we can claim back what is ours. Any suggestions? Vidkvist: Maybe, but I’m not sure if you are going to like the idea. You have to surrender to the high elves of Hembrygga. Hembrygga is the settlement between Hemresa and the Enchanted Forest. The royals may not like half-bloods like yourself, but they dislike dark-bloods even more. The elven arrows at their disposal can darken the horizon. Their armor is as dragon skin and their swords make dwarven steel feel like butter. But most important of all, they will do everything to protect the Enchanted Forest. Nar’Bilu: What is the real catch Vidkvist? Vidkvist: The royals will claim Hemresa upon victory. A long cherished wish. Hemresa is full elven treasure. Like the magic vein we found under Bow’s Arch, there are many flowing under our island. Are you willing to give up your lordship for the sake of Avalonia? Nar’Bilu: I’ll think about diplomacy on our way there... lead the way. Both the Lord and his commander inform the troops of their initial plan. The elves are thrilled, the half elves a little less, but still happy to find a safe haven. Hembrygga WIP for Category C Nar’Bilu and a reasonable army of elven, half elven and elfling followers travelled to the gates of Hembrygga, a settlement ruled by the four kin of Yggdrasil. Four elemental mages who protect the passage from Hemresa to the Enchanted Forest. Trädgren Lord of woods and flora (the oldest of the four) Jordsten Lord of rock and earth Djurkalla Lord of land, sea and sky fauna Brunnbölja Lord of sea, lakes and streams From the pathway rises a wall of trees, stone and towers. The only way into the facility is by ferry. The small boats are steered by dedicated elves, who judge and check every passenger they lead into the walls of Hembrygga. By the sight of the small regiment the elves bow towards the Lord of Hemresa and offer him and one guard the ferry. The lord is welcomed inside, brought directly to the leaders of this fortress. Nar’Bilu: (bows) Thank you for receiving me Trädgren: Of course my lord, what is it we can do for you? Nar’Bilu: I am in need of assistance, the Drow have reached the eastern borders of our beloved Hemresa. Some have already been spotted on land. It will not take them long to realize this is the main road to the Enchanted Forest, when travelling by land. Jordsten: What do you exactly need, my Lord. Nar’Bilu: There are some strategic points where we can cut them off, sending them back to the dark caves they came from. But I fear our numbers are too low, too many farmers and craftsmen with swords and too little skilled soldiers. I would like your army to my disposal to drive the Drow back. The four take a minute to debate, but need not much more than that. Trädgren: On one condition you will get access to our military resources. There is a second struggle going on in Historica. A much greater struggle. Petera and Dugal are going to war. We are opposers of Petera’s ideas of how to govern Historica and Dugal has approached us to send reinforcements also. In order to avoid being biased, we really don’t want to choose sides. No elves of us are being send to the battle field. Nar’Bilu: So you want me to send a legion of my troops in your behalf, without them knowing it’s on your behalf. So when the other side wins, you can deny being participants. Clever. Brunnbölja: I agree. Will you do it. Nar’Bilu: I will send a small legion to the Wither Woods. But I need forces much larger. Trädgren: You will have our army to your disposal. Our blades, bows, eyes and beasts. We will help you cleans Hemresa. Nar’Bilu: Thank you, I will assembly a legion to head up north. The five say goodbye and will meet up later today for strategic means. Nar’Bilu heads back to his legion, who are still waiting outside the walls. Together with his second in command, they select a small group of soldiers and a suitable commander to help Lord Dugal. Nar’Bilu shakes the hand of Vidkvist, they settled this without the fear of losing Hemresa. At least not to the elven lords. - link Narbilu sends out four teams of his best scouts to every corner of Hemresa to map the Drow activity and report back before day’s end. Losing the dwarven tunnels - link Book II - Challenge II – Category A Vessla and Okänd are the two half-elf scouts who are send out to investigate the forest to the south. As swift as their feet can haste them through thick thorns, dense foliage, over rocks and streams they map the area. Little activity of the dark blooded are in these even darker woods. Until they take a minute to chow. They overhear the whisper of a language they are not familiar with. Alerted they try to find where the sound is coming from. Not far from where they were taking their brake a large hollow tree functions as a ventilation shaft of one of the larger dwarven tunnels leading in every direction of Hemresa just ten feet under the grass they are standing on. Fortunately the hole is big enough for a slim half-elf, Vessla being the smallest of the two was chosen to ascend. Okänd can hardly hold the line, but together they manage. Lowered into the tunnels, Vessla is just in time to watch a small army of Drueggar heading to the west. Only a couple of hours away from Hembrugga. He is pulled back up and both haste back to report to their lord. Roadblock - link Book II - Challenge II – Category B The disturbing news of Vessla and Okänd means we have to act fast. Nar’Bilu sends out a reasonable sized legion, under command of Vidkvist, to the road ahead, where the closest exit of the tunnels to Hembrugga surface. Long enough to hold back the Drow and give the elves time to reassemble. The other scouts have reported that the Drow are merging their armies above and under the surface to clear the way to the Enchanted Forest. Nar’Bilu fears a massive slaughter soon to come. When Vidkvist and the elves have taken position and formed a defensive formation, a large amount of Drow exit the dwarven dwellings and surface the bitter sun, they hate so much. They must be eager to conquer Hemresa. Will the elves be able to hold them back long enough? The Battle for the Enchanted Forest - link Book II - Challenge II - Category C Unfortunately the numbers were to big to hold them back long enough to prepare for battle. Nar'Bilu heard a disturbing sound. Screeming of elves, breaking trees and battle cries filled the air with a terrifying thunder. The war started. A massive monster under the control of a dark mage, tore hole in our walls enabeling the drow to breach our lands. When our walls were beaten, darkskinned blademen entered Hembrygga killing the frontline of our defence. Nar'Bilu rushed to the battlefront summoning every swordsmen he had available, pushing the drow back to the field. It took only a few minutes before the field was covered with bodies, from both sides. But the drow did not expect the Hemresa Legion... they thought they would fight only elves. Hundreds would die, but the forest entrance was saved. We were victorious.
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Roadblock Book II - Challenge II – Category B the complete story The disturbing news of Vessla and Okänd means we have to act fast. Nar’Bilu sends out a reasonable sized legion, under command of Vidkvist, to the road ahead, where the closest exit of the tunnels to Hembrugga surface. Long enough to hold back the Drow and give the elves time to reassemble. The other scouts have reported that the Drow are merging their armies above and under the surface to clear the way to the Enchanted Forest. Nar’Bilu fears a massive slaughter soon to come. When Vidkvist and the elves have taken position and formed a defensive formation, a large amount of Drow exit the dwarven dwellings and surface the bitter sun, they hate so much. They must be eager to conquer Hemresa. Will the elves be able to hold them back long enough? the drow rush through the corridors the elven archers form a defensive position around the exit the blademen and eagles await the drow stampede
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Losing the dwarven tunnels Book II - Challenge II – Category A the complete story Vessla and Okänd are the two half-elf scouts who are send out to investigate the forest to the south. As swift as their feet can haste them through thick thorns, dense foliage, over rocks and streams they map the area. Little activity of the dark blooded are in these even darker woods. Until they take a minute to chow. They overhear the whisper of a language they are not familiar with. Alerted they try to find where the sound is coming from. Not far from where they were taking their brake a large hollow tree functions as a ventilation shaft of one of the larger dwarven tunnels leading in every direction of Hemresa just ten feet under the grass they are standing on. Fortunately the hole is big enough for a slim half-elf, Vessla being the smallest of the two was chosen to ascend. Okänd can hardly hold the line, but together they manage. Lowered into the tunnels, Vessla is just in time to watch a small army of Drueggar heading to the west. Only a couple of hours away from Hembrugga. He is pulled back up and both haste back to report to their lord.
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Challange II - The road to civil war - new leadership - arrivals It is hard to tell if the residents of Hemresa are satisfied with the new leadership. However, it seems it does not disencourage them so far. Everybody works hard to build and protect Hemresa, and thus Avalonia. A still disturbed Nar Bilu was called to the edge of the forest near the location where Bow's Arch is being build. The construction is taking longer than planned. The elves made some sort of platform. They helped him on top so he could get a good view of the area. Loud noises of cheering came from the road ahead. To his joy a caravan of small carts arrived. Craftsmen, soldiers and complete families he recognized from all over Avalonia came to help build and inhabit this new town. Humans of Albion and Hemresa Elves of Hemskog Dwarves of Hemkulle And even the half elves of Mount Raven (Nocturnus - challange I) All came to help out the new Lords of Avalonia to protect their beloved lands of the dark clouds hanging over Historica.
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Bow’s Arch Quarry (Hemresa) Finding a location Nar Bilu, Gideon and the diplomats, talked all night about strategy, city planning and the benefits of the location. The plan was finished by dawn. Wig Glin and his crew of dwarves started at first sun. Stout dwarves sweating for days. Already after a few days one fourth of the big rock on the east side of town was cut down upgraded to stone bricks. Enough stone to build a fortification. Enough tore down for the city plan of Bow’s Arch. Bow’s Arch Forresters I'd like to claim the following University of Petraea credit (APPROVED): Trade & Law - manufacturing
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The town of Bow’s Arch (Hemresa) In the early days of the Civil War, which started in Nocturnus, Nar Bilu ordered the start of a new order within the Hemresa Legion. He foresaw that, if he survived all the local wars, he needed an army worthy of the final battle. In the meantime this army could give support to everyone who is in need and loyal to our cause. Till the last penny, Nar Bilu is prepared to invest in this town. He will donate these buildings to the best of their trade, he could find in Hemresa or Albion, who are willing to follow his course. He consulted his friend Gideon and Rogueang for the best strategy. He even got Gideon to help with the architecture and planning. The recent drow activity and the rumours that are spreading gives Bow’s Arch a high priority. Bow’s Arch is highest priority, we have to find a secret location, suitable for our plans and finish before the drow reach our borders. The constructor, who made his posts in Albion, was the first to arrive at the Southern Tower. Only hours later Gideon also arrived. Both were summoned to Nar Bilu’s quarters. The three men searched the Hemresa map for a suitable location. It has to be remote and kept secret until Nar Bilu is ready to reveal it to the rest of the world. Fortunately Hemresa, being a Mystic Isle, has enough of these. The basics are put on paper, location… check, number and architecture of buildings… check, city planning… check. Now it’s time to recruit some blue collar and put this project in motion. Nar Bilu, Wig Glin, Yillia d’Nathill together with Gideon, Killian his loyal druid and enough craftsmen are to leave by morning to find a suitable corner of Hemresa to start building the town of Bow’s Arch. Val Kyri was send out to track down, capture and sentence Robin Rascal. By dawn all commanders, with an escort, left the Southern Tower in different directions to perform their tasks. (sorry Gideon - I made you a fleshie) After a day’s travel Nar Bilu’s party arrived at the designated location. Then the druid tapped his shoulder and whispered something in his ear. The druid had sensed a vein of natural magic close by and advised to build right on top of it. Second advantage of this spot was that it was near water and solid rock. Nar Bilu consulted the whole night with his party. In terms of warfare, defence and commercial value, plans are ready. The only thing now stopping us is the lack of qualified people. Nar Bilu already sends out Yillia d’Nathill to recruit the best of the best. This village has to become the birthplace of legendary archers. The location was hard to find, somehow magic seems to hide itself perfectly. Which will come in handy for our secret project. Nar Bilu only informed Rogueang of his plans, but not the location.
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Bow’s Arch Storage (Hemresa) Finding a location Bow’s Arch Quarry Bow’s Arch Forresters The dwarves did finished their first job taking down one fourth of the large rock to the east. First priority is that we can store the raw materials, building equipment and rations somewhere save. With the help of everyone available, a storehouse is finished within a week. ground floor 1st floor For the eye a small warehouse, but nothing about that is true. A dungeon like labyrinth of caves dwell within these walls. Enough storage facility to hold food and materials for over a hundred good men. To keep thieves and other shadows of the dark away and the progress of Bow’s Arch save, the dwarves made some defensive possibilities on top of the warehouse. Now we are ready to really start our town. I like to claim the following University of Petraea credit (APPROVED): Architecture - wall techniques (wooden walls)
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Bow’s Arch Fishery (Hemresa) Finding a location Bow’s Arch Quarry Bow’s Arch Forresters Bow’s Arch Storage Now that the construction is up and running, defences are acceptable and the races of Hemresa have joined forces the next priority is to become self-sufficient. A small farm just ahead supplies crops in different forms, which suits the elves but can never be enough for the dwarves. They need meat, in whatever form they can get it. A couple of half elves made a strong building at the corner of town, at the shore of the sea. It seems that not only the lands are fertile, but also the waters in this region overflow with life. The minute the half elves start fishing, the nets fill themselves without much effort. They use whatever necessary, even magic, to stock up and fill our warehouse.
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Ch II - Prologue - Dark times - Uprising Word is received from Lord De Gothia's messenger that in every corner of Avalonia the drow activity is growing. So Nar Bilu decides to place scouts on every corner of Hemresa. It doesn't take long for one of the scouts to spot the drow... and he is startled by how close they are. The small island east of Hemresa, calles Hemgång, is invested by the dark skinned damned brothers of the elves. And they are gaining ground and approaching Hemresa fast. When the scout hastes back to report his findings to his commander, the commander in her place rushes to Nar Bilu. She, the dwarven commander and Nar Bilu gather around the Avalonian map just outside his tent to evaluate the situation and restart all plans on the construction of the new settlement. The also forge a new strategy on how to deal with the drow. A messenger was send back out to Lord De Gothia and Simon with the new born plans... A second messenger was send to the lords of the Enchanted Forest in the hope that they are willing to send extra support to Hemresa, the most important road between them and the main lands.
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Bow’s Arch Foresters (Hemresa) Finding a location Bow’s Arch Quarry The dwarves did their part on the large rock to the east. A crew of elves under command Killian started collecting and cutting down wood. Large logs are piling up, ready for construction. Killian made a pact with his earthly deity that he would never let the size of the forest shrink. Two of his apprentices channel their magic to the tree stumps. Green leaves and small branches almost instantaneously sprout out of the fresh stumps. Bow’s Arch Storage I'd like to claim the following University of Petraea credit (APPROVED): certification: agriculture (logging)
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One of the Hemresa scouts arrived with haste at the gate of the Southern Tower asking for an audience with Nar Bilu or one of the diplomats. He was in luck, because Nar Bilu and his loyal crew were in town for a meeting with the architect of Bow’s Arch. The scout entered the great hall under escort of two guards, of which one approached the table to ask Nar Bilu for a brief moment of his time. He stood up, walked to the man and shook his hand. He told Nar Bilu what he overheard: I was wandering the woods one the east side of Hemresa when I was alarmed by a hooded man. I hid behind the first tree I could find. The hooded man stopped just five feet in front of me, impatiently waiting for what turned out to be another hooded man. The second man had a strange colour in his face and talked with a dark voice, a drow. The drow traded a pouch full of gems in return for a stack of letters. They both stood there analyzing the letters. The papers turned out to be maps of Avalonia with marks on them. He said that their scouts marked every Avalonian strategic location they could find. The drow thanked the hooded man, ending his conversation with: “You tell your lord, Robin Rascal, that he will be rewarded when we conquer these lands”. After they separated I rushed immediately to you. Nar Bilu was very grateful for this newly obtained intelligence, but he was also very troubled. He summoned two of this most loyal knights. Both were send to the different ends of Avalonia to inform Rogueang and Da Gothia of the betrayal of Robin Rascal’s band of mercenaries and the plans of the drow. When Nar Bilu sat back down at the table he struck his fist on the table. Bow’s Arch is highest priority, we have to find a secret location, suitable for our plans and finish before the drow reach our borders. Nar Bilu and Wig Glin together with Gideon’s architects and enough craftsmen are to leave by morning to find a suitable corner of Hemresa to start building the town of Bow’s Arch. Yillia d’Nathill was send out to round up specialists to inhabit this secret town. The second priority is for a legion of soldiers, under command of Val Kyri, to track down, capture and sentence Robin Rascal. By dawn all commanders, with an escort, leave the Southern Tower in different directions to perform their tasks.
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After the civil war in Avalonia, Hemresa was occupied by the elves, making it difficult to re-strengthen in their mids. Nar Bilu had a secret, a settlement where he could regroup before taking back what is rightfully his. So for the time being, this will be his home. map showing Norra Norra Norra is a small island northeast of Hemresa, hidden in a thick fog from the outside world. Little men, that weren’t invited have visited. Norra was already discovered two decades by Nar Bilu on one of his journeys up north. The deserted island was ideal for refuge. The love for the island grew on Nar Bilu and he settled a small town on southern the shores. He founded a family, protected from the events in Historica. Till recently, peace have ruled on Norra. Now that Nar Bilu has returned, the folk of Norra is at high alert and preparing for war. the village Framför Framför Framför Framför Grathall and Farmstaed A. Places: Coastal village - Framför The Wall - Vägg (WIP) Beyond the Wall – Bakom (Soon) B. Society & Culture · A strong feeling towards the Avalonian laws, lords and their beliefs · All are equal, still they follow a commander (called a Garl) and the all-father · The runemaster is their celestial advisor, they tend to follow his leads · Mostly highlands with farmland and some forest · They are seeking revenge for the elves taking their beloved Hemresa · Slavery is against human rights · Seasonal Feasts: 1) Yull, a mixture of Christmas and New Year 2) The Thing, a ceremony where the lads that have reached adulthood pledge their brotherhood 3) Midsommer Nat, celebrating the longest day and the start of summer · Magic is common, but mostly in the form of runewriting and celestial interference. · They tend to be self sufficient, professions vary from fishermen, farmers, woodworkers and smiths. · Traderoutes to Avalonia, Kaliphlin and Midgardia ensure they have enough minerals for tools and weapons. In return the Norrmen supply food, leather and wool. · The army is nonexistent, but consists of the locals who are willing to follow a commander. C. Ruling class Nar Bilu Nar Bilu - The All-Father His name is actually a contraction of three Elven words: Narn, Bileg and Ilúvatar. Meaning Saga, mighty and all-father. The local folk call him Ilúvatar and do as he pleases, without really being servants. Nar Bilu take advantage of this position, he just wants peace and prosperity for his people and makes sure the laws he believes in are met. The house Bilu Without the outside world knowing, Nar Bilu has a family, a wife Æwyl, a daughter Gæyl and his successor Bran, who is almost old enough to explore the world himself. Very little is known about the bloodline Bilu, apart from what is written on the large runestone. Bog the Brave Bog the Brave – Garl, commander Bog is mainly responsible for keeping the island save form uninvited guests, next to controlling small struggles between locals. He has enough battle scars from before the time he was appointed this post. D. Important persons and heroes Bran Ilu Bran Ilu – Son and successor He just went to the Thing, meaning he is old enough for travel, an official profession and marriage. The next few missions he will tag along the right side of his father. Gæyl Gæyl – Daughter and warrior Throughout the years she trained to be one of the best blade wielders of Norra. As the daughter of the All-Father she doesn’t work much on the fields or other workshops. Rænall Rænall – Blacksmith Without his tools, the work on Norra would be depended on traders. Next to his skills as a smith, he is one of the most loyal friends of Nar Bilu and has fought by his side for years, wielding two hammers into the skulls of everyone in his path. Kræl and his wife Kræl – Runemaster The gods are the creators of the path we follow. The runes speak to the runemaster predicting the outcome of any action, or so is believed. Kræl is also a capable druid and herbalist. Yunill Yunill – Merchant The greatest seafarer of Norra, sailed across almost every coastline of Historica, defied many seas and traded in most harbours. He speaks a dozen different languages and dialects. Yunill recently got appointed responsible for the Norra fleet. Wictor Wictor – Freeman The first freeman choosing Norra as his new home. He acts as an inspiration to those who followed his lead as a resident of Norra. E. Normenn army A better reflexion of the army will be posted later and seperately Two of Norra's finest Townfolk Because Norra is a hidden island, not well charted and visitors are scarce, Norra has no official army. The men and sons of the island are well trained with axes and swords. Some master the bow, but those are mainly the hunters. Guards Vykr These stout men have seen war, they are hardened, bloodthirsty and will stand strong in a shield wall when the opponent cries for battle. They are the guards of the island and report to the Garl. Freemen Are the those recently acquired slaves, that chose to live alongside the one who gave them back their freedom. They choose to fight for freedom and release those still in captivity. Arsenal The arsenal contains mainly salvaged axes and swords from fled and slain footmen. The smith only crafts weapons on demand or when a special occasion occurs. A local workshop always makes sure that enough wood with iron inlayed round shields are available. Yunill on one of the ships Fleet A proud asset of Nar Bilu is the fleet Norra has docked. A flagship, three merchant ships and a hand full of small ships suitable for swiftly transporting a full regiment of Vykr to the main land. F. Current Events – Book II Nar Bilu, Garl Bog and Yunill have been freeing slaves until all the riches they had are vanished. We can’t wait for the trade to fill up our treasure, so Yunill is send out to raid the occupiers of the coastal settlements of Hemresa. The men and women of Norra are preparing to invade Hemresa, taking back what is rightfully theirs and seeking revenge on the elves responsible for their recent actions.
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Part II: Scouting The scout, Pojk, that was send out by Nar Bilu encountered the Kaliphlin army on his way north. Fortunately he didn’t get exposed, but it alerted him enough to follow their trail back to Bow’s Arch. From a distance he observed the whole scene. Disgusted by the betrayal of the elves he seeks out two of his kin, which he sends out to the two legions that Nar Bilu send away. He arranges a secret spot at the most northern edge of Hemresa, called Norrhorn”, where the scouts will report back to him, before he leaves the island. Only hours later both of them return with the bad news, that both legions were also slaughtered. A few men return with the scouts, but not more than a hand full. Pojk sends the two scouts to deliver a message to Albion, both to follow a different path, to improve the odds of at least one reaching our capitol. He then talks to the elder of the footmen, they agree to be loyal to Nar Bilu and wait just outside the borders of Hemresa for further instructions. A trade ship with an odd flag docked in a sandbank on the most northern point of Norrhorn, in plain view of Pojk and the few footmen, he decided to take with him. They managed to reach the ship through the waves of the ocean. The captain shouts, the oars decent and the ship backs out of the sand, back into the ocean. The sail bulbs, catching wind and swirls around its axis. Like a sword through tender lambs meat the ship sails the waters between Hemresa and the in fog concealed island of Norra. Pojk, who is not a real seafarer, is relieved that the journey is a still and easy one. They dock. A few curious boys come running towards the ship, jumping on board to be chased away by some of the stout men from below deck. Every end has a new beginning Pojk can’t believe his eyes. A complete village arises from the, with ships filled, docks. The sailors escort Pojk to the main hall, where the footmen are pulled to the inn. Beer and meat are served continuously. The escort introduced Garl the Great to the visitor, next to Garl sits a young lad. That would be me, Bran Narbilusson. As my name announces, the son of Narbilu. Pojk hands me the sealed note which my father gave to him and tells us the unfortunate story of the past weeks ending with the betrayal of the elves. I hardly can control my feelings. I retire to my quarters. Within minutes Bog enters without notice. Me: We have to avenge my father’s death and conquer back what is rightfully mine to begin with. Garl: You are right and we will, soon, but not now. Me: [looking disappointed]. Garl: Don’t be my boy, I promised to keep you save until adulthood. That is what I will do. Me: [now smiling, cause that’s only two weeks away]. Garl: I will prepare the men to war after Yull. They will fight better with filled stomachs and high morale. Me: Thanks chief. With that said, Garl leaves me for mourning, not too long though. That night, a miracle happened. A survivor In a small storage, deep in the forest of Hemresa far away from civilisation, a local called Knæl pulls a man on his quickly emptied table. He searches his cabin for jars, herbs and other stuff with haste, while his wife binds the wounds of the in blood soaked man. They need a hammer and chisel to remove the dented armour, but soon enough they freed the victim of his restrains. Two days, the cabin sheds green light out of every crack, window or other opening, supported by chanting and continues rune writing. The woman rubs ointments one the open wounds, washes his pale lifeless looking face and wets his mouth with a damp cloth. After the two days, both take a rest on their bench outside their cabin. Suddenly they hear coughing coming from inside. They rush back in, to see the man on their table was breathing heavily, but steady. The woman grabs some bread and pours a cup full with water. The man collects his strength to sit up right, still with his eyes half closed. The offered beverage and food is binged away and by the end of the midday the man has enough energy to stand up and start to talk. The man can’t remember his name, and Kræl isn’t going to tell him what it is. That way he will be saver on Hemresa. They talk for hours, but the man can’t wait to leave. Some things he does remember, one being that he lives on an island up north. Kræl offers him a robe, in return the man asks the two to join him. With the recent events on Hemresa, they start packing without hesitance. to be continued... go to part 1
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Word of the author ::: I also finished part 2::: go to part 2 In order to link my character Nar Bilu to my newly obtained ideas and storyline, I wrote a story. Hopefully fun to read and backed up by small builds. I recently finished the story and found the time this weekend to start building the scenes. Enjoy: I am Bran and I am going to tell you what happened in Hemresa just after the battle over Avalonia was fought. The end of an era The shadow that has been torturing Avalonia is breaking up by the morning sun, pushing away clouds and revealing a beaten up land. Around a extinguished campfire just outside the massive hole leaking out of the Hembrugga walls, Nar Bilu and a handful of his henchmen evaluate the fight, while a group of volunteers remove the casualties from the battlefield. Drow are thrown in the river and the slain Avalonians are given a proper burial. Every hour another scout arrives and join the evaluation, each with the same story about their journey into the designated outskirt of Hemresa. Fortresses are destroyed, fields are burned, forests are chopped down, villages are abandoned and the surviving folk living there are scattered around our country finding salvage wherever they can. Nar Bilu divides the remaining men in three regiments, one to follow him to the site where Bow’s Arch was going to be built, one to recruit local builders and folk who are still loyal to Nar Bilu and the last is send to Albion to do the same and inform the Lords of Avalonia of the current status of Hemresa. Now the infestation of the plaque and the drow are suppressed, Hemresa can be rebuild. Nar Bilu feels, despite of the victory, lost. So many died for nothing, so much is destroyed. It will take a decade to fertilize these lands again. Horses are packed, carts are loaded, men are armed and with a commander in front of them, they leave and wave Hembrugga goodbye. Nar Bilu enters the great hall and thanks the Elven Kings for their support before he leaves. After a days travel, the regiment arrives at the building site of Bow’s Arch. Nothing but sand, rocks and ruins. They set camp in the ruin of the warehouse, where they start planning. Night set, Nar Bilu was one of two not sleeping. He gave a secret order to the scout, who swiftly left in the woods. In the meantime Only an hour after the Avalonians left the sight of Hembrugga, two delegations arrive. One carrying a red and the other a blue flag, both supported by the colours of Avalonia. They are welcomed inside the gates. Once inside, they are summoned for an audition at the Kings. The leaders, both with one commander sit around a large table in the great hall, together with the King Elder and his commander. The Kaliphlin lord, Azural Djun, rides in red with his legion of lions. A strategist with lust for battle. But his lust for gold is even bigger and this is what the elves promised him. He will be duke of Hemresa if they will follow the Kings wishes. When they control Hemresa, he will be made responsible for tax collecting and keeping order on the island. The Midgardian tradesman, Gorl Weighn, sails with a blue flag. Wealth can never be great enough. The road between Avalonia and the Enchanted Forest will be the pearl of his empire. Elven resources from the west and Dwarven craftsmanship from the northeast makes a damn good profit. The Kings promises both men control of their part of Hemresa in return for the removal of the sitting Lord and loyalty to the elves. After some small struggles on rules and compensations, the company agrees. Losing a leader Dawn is breaking, a bright sun sets upon the coastline to the west, while a horn clangs from the east. Alerting everyone in the camp. Shields up, swords pressed into fists, bows strung with the arrowheads pointed over the first line of defence. From the eastern hill arises a red flag, pikes and a strange looking cavalry. The first batch of arrows seem to miss their target, we just weren’t prepared for battle. Before we could even march towards the opponent, the first line was killed by the fearless pikemen of the lions. Fortunately our swordsmen had more success. We pushed them back into the open field, making both of us vulnerable, but we still had an advantage in numbers. On both sides men fell. The fight didn’t take long. The lions pulled back, forcing us further away from our camp. That is when we got outflanked. Out of the blue... the blue came from the south. Golden crowns on their shields, crossbow bolts piercing us from the side. We were surprised and we paid the toll. Before midday, Nar Bilu stood surrounded by a small dozen of his own men cornered by two regiments, on a pile of corpses, awaiting his fate. But the two opponents stood still, when the sun was blocked by a dark cloud. Unfortunately is was no actual cloud. A hail of elven arrows landed in the remaining men of the Hemresa Legion. Nar Bilu looked up when the cloud hit him in the chest, shoulders and back. Kneeled on the ground he watched how the two leaders took down their flags and raised the green flags of Avalonia. ... to be continued
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Floating Tower The ground started to shake, green lightning springs upon two wielding staffs. The druid, Lynrem, casts a spell pulling a tree from its soil and taking it for a journey to the battle fields. Tree, roots, the surrounding wall and the offensive soldiers behind that wall all float to the front line, where the bloodshed is about to start. If you need detailed shots of the structure, please PM me...
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Foldable Ballista Together with the small legion, Nar’Bilu arranges for a foldable ballista. The device is easy to transport and perfect to handle within dense forests as well as on the open field. Only two men are necessary to operate it.
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By the sight of the elven Sha the border guards of the snow elves of Crow clear way for Nar Bilu. Together with his elven henchmen, Nar Bilu rides to the elven Lord Rothilline who has a settlement to even with Raavage. Nar Bilu is welcomed into the community of the elves and is led to their leader. They feast all night. Besides the festivity they discusses a strategy and both decide to take part of this mission. Nocturnus should not fall in the hands of The Black Spire. It would be bad for business and they will most certainly cross borders if they manage to conquer Nocturnus. Rothilline agrees to accompany the wood elves and fight the war against the Black Spire. Read the backstory - challenge A - challenge B I'd like to claim the following University of Petraea credits: Landscape design (trees) Landscape design (snow and ice) Anthropology (tribal scene) Anthropology (life in Nocturnus)
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Nar Bilu and a small regiment of woodelves leave Hemresa to assist his old friend Grimm with the battle over Nocturnus. His title of Sha of Elves will make it easier to recruit more elves on the way to Nocturnus. Nar Bilu remembers an elven lord protecting the border of Mitgardia and Nocturnus, on the foot of Rakath. After a weeks journey, Nar Bilu reaches the defence structure protecting the pathway leading to the snow elves. Solid rocks, icy roads and dead trees cut this scene. With no sense of loyalty these elves work for both The Mitgardians and the Noct and are perfect for assisting Nar Bilu on his promises. Read the backstory - Challange A Continue reading - Challenge C I'd like to claim the following University of Petraea credits: Military Science (fortification) Anthropology (life in Nocturnus)