Difference between revisions of "Ashrak Imperialist"

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|width=35%; align="center"| [[/About Us/]] || width=35%; align="center"| '''Journal Volume''': Summer of 18 YD || width=35%; align="center"| [[/Archives/]]
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|width=35%; align="center"| [[/About Us/]] || width=35%; align="center"| '''Journal Volume''': Autumn of 18 YD || width=35%; align="center"| [[/Archives/]]
 
|+ '''Our Motto''': "''Subscriptions Are Mandatory!''"
 
|+ '''Our Motto''': "''Subscriptions Are Mandatory!''"
 
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! width="30%" align: right; style="background: black; color: white"| ''Meditations'' Corner
 
! width="30%" align: right; style="background: black; color: white"| ''Meditations'' Corner
 
|-
 
|-
| '''"Whoever Smelt it Dealt It: Theocratism"'''
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| '''"Identity of the Morek Empire - Know Thyself"'''
Empire,
 
  
It is no secret that I have no love for [[Sanguis Astroism|Astromancy]], everyone knows that – but that isn’t the point of this article. What is the point is that I would like to pick a fight with the government system theocracy, particularly the fact that it is employed in the [[Morek Empire]]. Alright I will concede these points, yes the Morek Empire is the cradle of Astromancy and yes the majority of its nobles are Astromancers, except yours truly, but, considering my last article (read: the decline of the Empire) and the state of [[Dwilight/High Toprak|High Toprakian]] politics I think it is high time theocracy was grandfathered out. Let it retire while the going’s good, Empire. You don’t have to be rude about it. Just ask it politely to clear its stuff out and enjoy its vacation fishing off the coast of [[Nimh]]. Theocracy is an old mentality. We should be psyching ourselves up for the future: Imperialism. Sure you can retain your Astromancer heritage and connections, no harm no foul, but allowing it to govern your realm is really a backwards idea. Here’s why.  
+
Joyful readers this article will be a different mark than the one previous (which I am sure you are thankful for). Where in last season I argued against the politics of theocratism, this season I discuss the nature of character. Every realm and every noble possesses character. Whether that character is visible or not, or developed or not, is what I’d like to address. Brief definition of character; It is personality, attitude and behaviour, preference and belief, action and inaction. These qualities compose what is called an identity. This is an important concept to consider because often I find nobles who are wayward within themselves or visit realms that are empty of any character whatsoever (read: the [[Ironsides Family/Bowie/Raivanlands|Raivan Outpost]]). These nobles and realms have no direction and no desire to form themselves into anything of quality. I find this to be saddening, wasteful, and so with this article I shall raise the issue and hope to have a broad affect.
  
At this moment in time there is a small group of you who are very uncomfortable with what I am saying. You cluck your tongues and write to the High Inquisitor to do something about this “Demon of Dwilight.” (Sorry ahead of time for the volume of letters you may receive High Inquisitor, I have no control over sensitive reactionaries). This is occurring to you because you are old and you are one of those who fought to build the theocracy we live in today. It is likely that you hold positions of power you earned by being a good little theocrat, and my views directly challenge your validity. My finger is poking you right on the shoulder and you don’t like it. The way I see it, due to your glorious effort in the past you are now content to horde your gold, to squat on your hands and watch the butterflies float around your head. I know all about it, I’m of the same generation as you. We’re old. We fought our wars and earned our titles; well, I lost my war, but regardless, we feel we must maintain the status quo we worked so hard for. We cling to the current pillars of our comfort and safety. In other words, theocratism has become our living tomb. We can go no further and do no more because you achieved the goals of your theocracy. It brought us so many friends and so much cushion room, ooo, aaa – how posh are we! But the party’s over if we don’t get rid of theocracy. Remember the last issue of the Ashrak Imperialist? How I said stagnation can either provoke change or borne decay? (I did say that didn’t I?) This is the flint of our fire. We either burn in it or above it.  
+
Empire, let’s discuss the identities of Morek. In the Morek Empire I have come to know two distinct types of character. These I call Theocrats and Imperialists. The difference rests as deep as a person’s entire mentality and as shallow as their political allegiances. You will notice this too as I describe them.
  
So, where are the new nobles, the new minds with new ideas and with hungry bellies for experience and glory? I call upon the youth of Morek to hear this prophecy of doom and gloom! You have so much to prove, so much to gain and lose if you only try. You, the youth of my Empire, Young Morek, you want the noise! You want the action! You want the change! I believe theocracy is the greatest problem of the Morek Empire and if the young don’t change it they condemn us all to premature retirement. Those who wear the theocratic badge will argue with me that I am wrong and crazy, well you might be right about the last charge but you built the asylum. Stop squandering your spoils and get off the pot. Theocracy has run its course. It is a bad smell lingering in the Empire stubbornly refusing to dissipate. Please, for the love of the future, let a new fragrance emerge around here. How about a fragrance that does not exclude loyalty for obedience? Or how about one that does not impose itself in places it should not belong? Perhaps its time for the Morek Empire to develop a new aspect to its personality instead of strictly goody two shoes Astromancer all the time? The Morek Empire needs a new bag.
+
Theocrats of the Empire have a perspective shaped and governed by the Astromancy faith. They hold to heritage and tradition and elevate the temple above the politick. When making decisions in their life, faith plays a large determining factor over practical sense. This is to say their decisions would side with things in line with the religion before things in line with their own personal opinion. When they see other nobles and other realms they regard them as either members of the faith or not. They fit life to the teachings of Astromancy and its laws. I consider Theocrats a conservative group in the Empire.
  
''Next Issue: Identity of the Empire: Who are you?!''
+
Imperialists of the Empire have a perspective shaped and governed by their own experiences and policies. They hold to progress, change and expansion and are steadfast to the realm over anything else. When making decisions in their life, their own reasoning plays a large determining factor over demands of uniformity. This is to say that their decisions are made by their own conscience rather than the expectations of the “majority.” When they see other nobles and other realms they regard them simply as other nobles and other realms. They fit dogmas and laws to suit their lives. I consider Imperialists a liberal group in the Empire.
  
|valign="top"| <u>'''''"Hat's Off Corner!"'''''</u>
+
Now, outlining these two characteristics of the Empire/nobles of the Empire we can begin to see the broader concept emerge of this article. Other realms and nobles outside of the Empire should begin to view their environment and themselves in this way. If we can find the Empire composed of these two identities than we can perhaps find other realms with other characters? I would like you to examine your realms and yourselves and collect your identity. Knowing who you are will have a tremendous effect on what you do and where you go. Your entire life, and the entire life of your realm, will become clear and meaningful.
  
For a long time I watched the [[Dwilight/Upper Occidens|Occidens]] become the place to be on [[Dwilight]] with a touch of jealousy. It used to be us, [[Dwilight/High Toprak|High Toprak]], who had all the action. All the histories were dedicated to our heroes and our triumphs. But then, we got old, and the limelight crossed the sea to the Occidens. Now all we hear about is the [[Zuma]] this and the [[Véinsørmoot]] that and how terrible the cuisine of [[Kabrinskia]] is. Except for the [[Greater Luria|Lurians]]! Thank the Divines for you crazy insurrectionists! From what I see you have no need of a demon to spice things up down there. You’re getting along with each other just fine! That is to say, your constant secessions, forced abdications, coup d’etats and civil wars are magnificent. My cap is off to you [[Dwilight/Toprak Minor|Toprak Minor]] for consistent fresh conflict. High Toprak can take a lesson from your playbook. Bravo!
+
The Raivan Outpost is an example of what I call a “void.It had no purpose, no ambition, no characteristics, and no identity. It simply existed for the sake of itself and then it was conquered without much resistance. The Raivan Outpost was unworthy of its existence and we are all thankful it is no more.  
<br><br><br>
 
<u>'''''"New Empire Social Club Bulletin"'''''</u>
 
  
* Happy New Year Empire! May 18 YD prove prosperous and glorious for you.
+
Dwilight, are you worthy of your existence?
  
|}
+
|valign="top"| <u>'''''"Q&A With the Demon of Dwilight!"'''''</u>
 +
 
 +
1) Lady Vaynce from the Maroccidens asks: “Did you really steal gold from Fissoa?”
 +
 
 +
ME: ''No, it was given to me by taxes. When Grand Duke Leon Agenor asked me to distribute it back to the knights I decided to keep it instead.''
  
 +
2) Lord Bumblewire from Madina Island wants to know: “There has been a lot of controversy over your claim to Sallowtown. What claims do you have?”
  
 +
ME: ''Well, first, [[D'Hara/Oaths/Treaties/Treaty of Sallowtown agreement between D'Hara and Black Bowie|I bought the claim]] from the Dragon Queen Katayanna Ogren when I landed in [[D'Hara]] in the Summer of 4 YD. After that I was given the [[Ironsides Family/Bowie/Mandate by Dragon|Mandate of Sallowtown]] to rule the region as the incarnate Prince of Sallow. This was given to me by the Great Dragon Sallow himself. Then, [[Ironsides Family/Bowie/Letter of Grievance|I reconfirmed my claim]] with the Dragon King Cenarious Stormrage by supporting his rebellion against the Old Bat Katayanna. This occurred in the Spring of 5 YD. In the Autumn of 6 YD [[Sallowtown/History|I launched the Crusade for Sallowtown]] and ruled until Winter when the peasants ejected me in a fit of rage and ignorance. The Dragon King ignored a reconquest campaign and eventually I had to leave D’Hara. The stronghold was vacant ever since until the Duckface Kalince Fanath took it over in the Autumn of 17 YD. ''
  
{|class="wikitable" border: "1" cellpadding: "4" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto;"
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''I still assert my claims over the stronghold but have not found a practical solution to the issue: except challenging the current Duke to a duel! I always said if I lost I would hand the claims over, but if I win they must respect my authority over the region.''
! width="70%" align:left; style="background: green; color: bisque"| The Morek Empire
 
! width="30%" align: right; style="background: purple; color: white"| The Fundamentals of Mysticism
 
|-
 
| '''"Interview With the Grandmaster!"'''
 
  
The Ashrak Imperialist had the privilege of interviewing the Grandmaster of the Morek Empire, Lord [[Peristaltico Family|Bustoarsenzio Peristaltico]]. Our last interview was ten years ago in 8 YD.
+
3) A Prophet from the Mimer Peninsula wonders: “Are you really possessed by a demon or are you just crazy?”
  
<u>''Ashrak Imperialist:''</u> The last time I interviewed you we were both much younger nobles. You were the Lord Polemarch of Xinhai at war with the Libero Empire and I was just becoming the Lord of Ashrak for the first time in Aquilegia. A great deal has changed since then, both for us and for Dwilight. In your personal opinion, what are your thoughts about the current state of Dwilight? (Some talking points for you: How much of it is almost civilized, the behaviour of the Zuma, the distinct regional characteristics of the continent such as High Toprak or the Occidens). Do you celebrate the progress we've made or are there some things you regret?
+
ME: ''I am most certainly possessed by a demon but who the demon is, what it wants with me, and how it operates is largely a complicated mystery. I have developed many theories over the years as to what it is and where it came from but I have yet to find certainty in any of my findings. There is no way to rid it from my Soul. I shall exist in a torn state of demoniac and man until death claims me. If you wish to hear my theories please write me in private.''
  
<u>''Grandmaster:''</u> Dwilight finds itself currently in a peculiar, and for that quite interesting, situation. The most relevant fact is that in several areas of the continent super-realm entities are acquiring importance to the point of overpassing the identities of the realms themselves. In other words, power blocks are starting to raise: Sanguis Astroism, the Veinsormoot and the Lurias; each of them is often wrongly considered a single entity, yet they are certainly the most visible trait of Dwilight's evolution. Personally I believe this is mainly the outcome of the colonisation process, as more or less everywhere it became clear that independent colonies have very little chance to survive, and that therefore almost all colonies came out to be strongly tied through something (guilds religion or whatever) with the motherland. It is also, I believe, a natural defence against the formation of other blocks, single realms banding together just for the purpose of increasing their weight on the politic arena.
+
<center>-----</center>
  
On the one hand this scenario may not be incredibly exciting, as politics is reaching a very intensive point, but it's mostly about attrition and agreements: there is too much at stake for a complete war to easily spark. This means average nobles are cut out of most of the events of the continent, and wars are most of the times bearing too many consequences to be considered. On the other one it's not yet a completely locked picture, one can just see what Aurvandil is doing in the south (or what could the Zuma do) to understand things may not be as simple as I described them.
+
''You too can ask the Demon a question! Simply send a request to the estate of Lord Bowie Ironsides, Ashrak, Morek Empire.''
  
Right now nothing comes to my mind as regrets. There are many things I could have done differently perhaps, but I am not unhappy of my choice.
+
|}
  
<u>''Ashrak Imperialist:''</u> My theme for the Summer issue is the youth of Morek. As a noble of vast life experience in the military and in the political arena, what advice to you have for the young Morekans who want to rise up one day to be Grandmaster, or something similar?
 
  
<u>''Grandmaster:''</u> My suggestion is always the same: don't be shy and propose yourself. It is sometimes surprising how much is it possible to achieve in this way. Volunteering is very often underestimated. I can safely state that the beginning of my growth within the ranks of Morek took place when I, a very young noble, volunteered to bring to battle an oversized unit sponsored directly by the founder of Morek and first Grandmaster Deverka. It turned out I have been the only one answering his call and he -even if perhaps reluctantly- agreed. Since then my visibility raised and I became vice-Marshal of the Order of the Maddening Star first, then everything else. Try to put oneself too much in light may be counterproductive, but honest and wise desire to increase one's visibility is the key to success. Our elections, where so few ran, are an example of missed opportunities of this kind.
 
  
<u>''Ashrak Imperialist:''</u> A few season ago we had some discussions about the present course of the Morek Empire and you've touched upon some of your thoughts and concerns in a few public letters to the Empire recently. Please tell us more about that. What are your hopes and worries for the future of the Morek Empire?
+
{|class="wikitable" border: "1" cellpadding: "4" style="margin: 1em auto 1em auto;"
 +
! width="70%" align:left; style="background: green; color: bisque"| The Morek Empire
 +
! width="30%" align: right; style="background: purple; color: white"| The Fundamentals of Mysticism
 +
|-
 +
| '''"Spotlight on Shomrak"'''
  
<u>''Grandmaster:''</u> It is difficult to say. I am aware that more often than not I curb down the enthusiasm of various nobles (you among them) by dismissing some -often rash- ideas. I would like to catch the occasion that this is not done because I enjoy the power I hold in Morek and do not want to put that at stake, or because I hold the status quo dear at heart. Perhaps it's just age, but very seldom I can see any gain in what these proposals would imply, and too much potential losses. In a sense, Morek now reflects this attitude of mine: we're powerful, deeply respected and deeply feared. But this locks us in a position where no one will intentionally provoke us or our allies, dooming the realm to a killer stagnation you analysed before. I believe this is a temporary moment: most of the realms (or power blocks) are busy conquering the last few remaining empty areas of the island, making hunting rogues pointless but still delaying wars. One day, when there will be no more unclaimed land to take,  something may stir up, and I am confident it will be huge. On the other hand I confess you as an exclusive that it is not completely out of my mind the thought of stepping down, and let someone else - younger and more daring - lead Morek, to see where young blood would lead it.
+
Two seasons ago I spoke about the different zones of the [[Morek Empire|Empire]]; the East, the West and the Frontier. At the time I had few words to say about the region of [[Shomrak]], in fact I outright insulted it! I quote, “…Shomrak is largely undeveloped and dim from any culture or society….” That was then and this is now. Feast your eyes on the debutante of the Empire! I proudly introduce you to the newest beauty of the Frontier: Shomrak! By the care and effort of the lovely Countess [[Pike Family/Abbigal|Abbigal Pike]] Shomrak has turned from a forgettable pastureland to a region brimming with character and life.
  
<u>''Ashrak Imperialist:''</u> I've heard stories in history about rulers who disguised themselves and slipped out of their palaces undetected to learn a trade or experience the ordinary mediocrity of common life. If you could disguise yourself as a different noble, what realm on Dwilight would you like to experience?
+
Situated in the [[Dwilight/Unterlands|Unterlands]] of [[Dwilight/High Toprak|High Toprak]], Shomrak is now one of the leading producers of grains to the Empire and is known for its fruit juices (apple and grape are most popular). Shomrak experiences the duality of simple pasture living and harsh frontier life. Monsters and Undead attracted to the Empire frequently begin their incursions in Shomrak. The peasantry is largely farmers, herders, traders and artisans. The people are described to be neighbourly and cheerful, even in times of suffering. They often hold community feasts to which every one contributes a dish. I encourage you to visit them during their festival season so that you too can partake in the eating and joy. They will never refuse a nobleman!
  
<u>''Grandmaster:''</u> Some days ago I would have said Madina, perhaps to experience life in a very liberal republic constantly under siege. Now, perhaps one of the Lurian realm, as I miss a the thrill of war decisively.
+
The region itself is separated into three estates. Each of the estates covers one third of the pastureland. On account of the region’s deep faith to the Bloodstars the land division reflects the attributes of the Stars. There are the estates for the Maddening, the Auspicious and the Austere. The Countess’ estate is in the Austere. While there is much to be developed, the region of Shomrak has earned its place among one of the finest places to visit in the Empire.  
  
Thank you Grandmaster! Long live the Empire.
+
With the growth of Shomrak, the Frontier is now one of the most unique and attractive places in the Morek Empire. The Frontier is distinct from its ducal neighbours and firm in its place at the head of expansion.  
  
  
|valign="top"| [[Image:Da_vinci_wise.JPG‎|frame|center|<span title="Fundamentals of Mysticism; Lesson Three:The personal quest of every Mystic is to ascend the Hierarchy of Gods. It is an intensely spiritual and personal journey; although it does not have to be made alone. To do this, a Mystic must discover their chosen path to earn a recommendation. The gods above the average Mystic are willing to assist them elevate - for a service. Some gods ask for temples to be built in their name, others for their religion to spread as far as the land allows, and others still require heavier prices indeed. A Mystic seeks out the path and the god most suitable for them and approaches it with their oath. It is in fulfilling this private contract between the Mystic and their divinity that earns them a recommendation. With a recommendation, upon death, the Mystic’s Soul is promoted in the Hierarchy of Gods and given access to the Divine Realm. This will result in the gaining of special abilities, immortality, and new powers like being able to travel to any distance instantly or in transforming their forms to different things such as people, animals or even objects. Without a recommendation, a Soul is doomed to remain in the same position upon each instance of life. All Souls in life, who are nobles, are Mimics – the very bottom of the Hierarchy. There are other Souls in life that are more powerful gods or spirits and they may or may not contact the Mimics and procure their services. Most times it is up to the Mimic to seek out the god. In order to be a Mystic and begin this quest you must first find a Master and take the Oath." {{#ifeq:{{{dotted|no}}}|no||style="border-bottom:1px dotted"}} class="help">X</span><noinclude>]]
+
|valign="top"| [[Image:Da_vinci_wise.JPG‎|frame|center|<span title="Fundamentals of Mysticism; Lesson Four Part One: We’ve learned that Mysticism enlightens a Soul to the Hierarchy of Gods and the three dimensions of existence. It also assists them in their quest to ascension and a greater rank in the Hierarchy. But what about Souls who are uninitiated to the Mystery Cult and know nothing about the revelations of Mysticism? There are thousands upon thousands of Souls living in Life and the majority of them are Mimics, the very bottom rank of the Hierarchy. We say that we all live in a state of Mimicry. You see, every Soul contains within it a yearning to attain something greater than themselves. We use words like ambition or destiny to describe it, and some Souls spend their entire lives attempting to earn it. Souls initiated into Mysticism know exactly that this yearning is actually the desire to ascend the Hierarchy of Gods and they know the ways to which they can accomplish this goal. For uninitiated Souls, as they know nothing about the ranks their Soul can achieve, they instead have developed an entire system of ranks and levels in life to imitate the Hierarchy of Gods. It is no coincidence that our lives are ruled by the feudal system in which a peasant is subject to a knight who is subject to a Lord who is subject to a Duke who is subject to a Ruler. This exact system is the Hierarchy of Gods naturally developed in Life to satisfy the mysterious yearnings of Souls uninitiated to Mysticism. A peasant who desires to be a noble is the exact innate quest of an initiated Soul desiring to become a Demigod in the Hierarchy. For a Knight in our living feudal system is the reflection of being a Demigod in the Hierarchy. This is the illusion of Life, and Mysticism unveils it as a pathetic imitation at best. To be continued…" {{#ifeq:{{{dotted|no}}}|no||style="border-bottom:1px dotted"}} class="help">X</span><noinclude>]]
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
<center>''The Demon of Dwilight Has Spoken!''</center>
 
<center>''The Demon of Dwilight Has Spoken!''</center>

Revision as of 21:23, 5 March 2012


Ashrak Imperialist Banner.JPG
About Us Journal Volume: Autumn of 18 YD Archives
Our Motto: "Subscriptions Are Mandatory!"


Editorial Meditations Corner
"Identity of the Morek Empire - Know Thyself"

Joyful readers this article will be a different mark than the one previous (which I am sure you are thankful for). Where in last season I argued against the politics of theocratism, this season I discuss the nature of character. Every realm and every noble possesses character. Whether that character is visible or not, or developed or not, is what I’d like to address. Brief definition of character; It is personality, attitude and behaviour, preference and belief, action and inaction. These qualities compose what is called an identity. This is an important concept to consider because often I find nobles who are wayward within themselves or visit realms that are empty of any character whatsoever (read: the Raivan Outpost). These nobles and realms have no direction and no desire to form themselves into anything of quality. I find this to be saddening, wasteful, and so with this article I shall raise the issue and hope to have a broad affect.

Empire, let’s discuss the identities of Morek. In the Morek Empire I have come to know two distinct types of character. These I call Theocrats and Imperialists. The difference rests as deep as a person’s entire mentality and as shallow as their political allegiances. You will notice this too as I describe them.

Theocrats of the Empire have a perspective shaped and governed by the Astromancy faith. They hold to heritage and tradition and elevate the temple above the politick. When making decisions in their life, faith plays a large determining factor over practical sense. This is to say their decisions would side with things in line with the religion before things in line with their own personal opinion. When they see other nobles and other realms they regard them as either members of the faith or not. They fit life to the teachings of Astromancy and its laws. I consider Theocrats a conservative group in the Empire.

Imperialists of the Empire have a perspective shaped and governed by their own experiences and policies. They hold to progress, change and expansion and are steadfast to the realm over anything else. When making decisions in their life, their own reasoning plays a large determining factor over demands of uniformity. This is to say that their decisions are made by their own conscience rather than the expectations of the “majority.” When they see other nobles and other realms they regard them simply as other nobles and other realms. They fit dogmas and laws to suit their lives. I consider Imperialists a liberal group in the Empire.

Now, outlining these two characteristics of the Empire/nobles of the Empire we can begin to see the broader concept emerge of this article. Other realms and nobles outside of the Empire should begin to view their environment and themselves in this way. If we can find the Empire composed of these two identities than we can perhaps find other realms with other characters? I would like you to examine your realms and yourselves and collect your identity. Knowing who you are will have a tremendous effect on what you do and where you go. Your entire life, and the entire life of your realm, will become clear and meaningful.

The Raivan Outpost is an example of what I call a “void.” It had no purpose, no ambition, no characteristics, and no identity. It simply existed for the sake of itself and then it was conquered without much resistance. The Raivan Outpost was unworthy of its existence and we are all thankful it is no more.

Dwilight, are you worthy of your existence?

"Q&A With the Demon of Dwilight!"

1) Lady Vaynce from the Maroccidens asks: “Did you really steal gold from Fissoa?”

ME: No, it was given to me by taxes. When Grand Duke Leon Agenor asked me to distribute it back to the knights I decided to keep it instead.

2) Lord Bumblewire from Madina Island wants to know: “There has been a lot of controversy over your claim to Sallowtown. What claims do you have?”

ME: Well, first, I bought the claim from the Dragon Queen Katayanna Ogren when I landed in D'Hara in the Summer of 4 YD. After that I was given the Mandate of Sallowtown to rule the region as the incarnate Prince of Sallow. This was given to me by the Great Dragon Sallow himself. Then, I reconfirmed my claim with the Dragon King Cenarious Stormrage by supporting his rebellion against the Old Bat Katayanna. This occurred in the Spring of 5 YD. In the Autumn of 6 YD I launched the Crusade for Sallowtown and ruled until Winter when the peasants ejected me in a fit of rage and ignorance. The Dragon King ignored a reconquest campaign and eventually I had to leave D’Hara. The stronghold was vacant ever since until the Duckface Kalince Fanath took it over in the Autumn of 17 YD.

I still assert my claims over the stronghold but have not found a practical solution to the issue: except challenging the current Duke to a duel! I always said if I lost I would hand the claims over, but if I win they must respect my authority over the region.

3) A Prophet from the Mimer Peninsula wonders: “Are you really possessed by a demon or are you just crazy?”

ME: I am most certainly possessed by a demon but who the demon is, what it wants with me, and how it operates is largely a complicated mystery. I have developed many theories over the years as to what it is and where it came from but I have yet to find certainty in any of my findings. There is no way to rid it from my Soul. I shall exist in a torn state of demoniac and man until death claims me. If you wish to hear my theories please write me in private.

-----

You too can ask the Demon a question! Simply send a request to the estate of Lord Bowie Ironsides, Ashrak, Morek Empire.


The Morek Empire The Fundamentals of Mysticism
"Spotlight on Shomrak"

Two seasons ago I spoke about the different zones of the Empire; the East, the West and the Frontier. At the time I had few words to say about the region of Shomrak, in fact I outright insulted it! I quote, “…Shomrak is largely undeveloped and dim from any culture or society….” That was then and this is now. Feast your eyes on the debutante of the Empire! I proudly introduce you to the newest beauty of the Frontier: Shomrak! By the care and effort of the lovely Countess Abbigal Pike Shomrak has turned from a forgettable pastureland to a region brimming with character and life.

Situated in the Unterlands of High Toprak, Shomrak is now one of the leading producers of grains to the Empire and is known for its fruit juices (apple and grape are most popular). Shomrak experiences the duality of simple pasture living and harsh frontier life. Monsters and Undead attracted to the Empire frequently begin their incursions in Shomrak. The peasantry is largely farmers, herders, traders and artisans. The people are described to be neighbourly and cheerful, even in times of suffering. They often hold community feasts to which every one contributes a dish. I encourage you to visit them during their festival season so that you too can partake in the eating and joy. They will never refuse a nobleman!

The region itself is separated into three estates. Each of the estates covers one third of the pastureland. On account of the region’s deep faith to the Bloodstars the land division reflects the attributes of the Stars. There are the estates for the Maddening, the Auspicious and the Austere. The Countess’ estate is in the Austere. While there is much to be developed, the region of Shomrak has earned its place among one of the finest places to visit in the Empire.

With the growth of Shomrak, the Frontier is now one of the most unique and attractive places in the Morek Empire. The Frontier is distinct from its ducal neighbours and firm in its place at the head of expansion.


X
The Demon of Dwilight Has Spoken!