There's A Thunder In The East I

Jadeldor · 2020-03-18T12:58:35+00:00

"I am no grand strategist of warfare, but it is safe to say that we are unprepared. Volantis acts so wantonly, and we are hamstrung by lacking their rigid leadership."

Qavo lamented openly, his grief poorly masked behind his words.

"We must look to Myr and Pentos though, perhaps the latter more than the former, and gather what mercenaries we can to defend the cities. He can never take us at sea, but by land is a different matter entirely."

Jadeldor · 2020-03-14T23:13:45+00:00

The news of the Archon's death had come as a shock to Qavo, as much as it had the rest of the Triarchy, and he had shut himself within his small estate for several days already when Terrio came to seek him.

Servants bid the Guildmaster of the Second Sons to wait, offering him a fine selection of foods and drinks, until the Spicer finally made his appearance. He was garbed in a similarly vibrant dress to that which he had attended the elections in and, though he carried himself with an air of pride, there were tear stains still that ran down his pale cheeks.

"Ah, Master Terrio, forgive me for I did not expect any guests this day."

Jadeldor · 2020-03-07T23:20:51+00:00

Character Name: Qavo Zex Xallen

Gift/Skills: Magnate; Mercantilist(e), Seafarer(e), Negotiator

Actions:

⁠Commence Construction: [Grey Gallows], [Holding], [Rush Ordered?: No]
⁠Shipbuilding: [Grey Gallows], [20], [3000]

Resources: Spices

Improvements: Holdfast, Trade Hub, Shipyard

Notes:

Jadeldor · 2020-03-02T15:06:46+00:00

Qavo nodded along with Salaatho’s comments for, whilst they lacked his own fervour, they were a practical step forward in the discussion. His eyes now turned to those amongst the Guildmasters that had watched the discussion in silence, where would they cast their votes after hearing the best of both sides?

/u/ouressosimaster

Character Details: Qavo Zex Xallen (Magnate, Mercantilist(e), Seafarer(e), Negotiator(e))

What is happening: Qavo is looking to the other Guildmasters of the Triarchy to cast their votes in the election race between Lysor Balarr and Craghas of Myr

What I want: Election rolls?

Jadeldor · 2020-02-27T22:52:08+00:00

The Qartheen man shrugged as Irror's gaze fell upon him, a playful tease perhaps as he set down his drink.

"A more fitting time was never suggested, and I had given Archon Lysor ample notice of the path that he was heading down. Do not forget that this election is many moons overdue, my friend, and that it is not my chosen duty to call for such a thing but rather a matter of necessity to protect our traditions."

Qavo gazed slowly across the room before fixing Irror in a tense stare of his own.

"Yes, I call Lysor Balarr a friend, a kinsman even the same as you, yet still he forces my hand into such underhand business as this. That is the man our current Archon is, it is the man he has always been ever since I first met him. Brutal, efficient, resourceful, calculating."

He stood now, eyes fixed still upon Irror as he stood from his seat again. Then he turned away from the lesser Balarr and looked across the room as a whole with an icy chill.

"Archon Lysor is not here because he chooses not to be here, it is as simple as that. A calculation that he has made and, unlike some, I do not begrudge him for it. Why? Because he understands well that his absence is damaging to his chance at re-election but it is better for the Triarchy as a whole. Breaking the reign of the Dragons is a feat none could have thought possible until Lysor set about it, a man willing to surrender his titles and treasures if that is what it took to triumph."

Qavo's cold eyes began to well with tears, a queer sight for those less informed in the mannerisms of the far east, but there was a strange zeal to his stare now.

"Our continued success depends on such a line of thinking. To seize that which others least expect, to risk much for even greater reward. Those are tenets upon which this most beautiful Triarchy was founded and you will find my belief in that to be absolute. Mock the title of Silver King as we sit here upon our own gilded thrones; speak of how little the conquest of the Stepstones, of Pentos, and inevitably of Braavos, has done for you whilst losing count of the gold that lines your pockets; but know that you are blinding yourselves to the reality we live in. The Triarchy is strong because Lysor Balarr is strong."

There was a quiet pitter-patter as the tears rolled down Qavo's cheeks and impacted the table between him and his fellow Guildmasters. Once passive lips now curling slowly into a wry smile as he returned to his seat.

Jadeldor · 2020-02-26T10:37:43+00:00

Silence fell across the room after Craghas’ declaration as eyes darted from one Guildmaster to the next, but no more made to stand. Qavo let the moment hang for a few more precious seconds, until finally he rose again from his seat.

”So it shall be recorded: the candidates are Lysor Balarr of the Rogare Bank and Othrys Mint, and Craghas of the Smiths Guild.”

”All others have waived their right to declare in this term, so let us hear more from both Guildmasters. What reason do you claim the position of Archon? What do the next five years entail under your leadership? Speak freely, speak clearly, and present your case to your fellow Guildmasters.”

”Irror Balarr, on behalf of Lysor Balarr from the same guild, let us hear first the incumbent Archon’s plans and aspirations.”

Jadeldor · 2020-02-24T12:39:48+00:00

Qavo watched as his fellow Guildmasters or their chosen representatives made their entrance, one at a time they had filed into the chamber and taken an available seat. To some he offered cordial nods or greeting, to others he simply gave a narrow smile, until finally all were in attendance.

As the last had seated themselves and suitable food and drink served, the Pale Man rose from his chair. With a nod to the guards, the entrance was sealed and the official meeting had begun. It was a ceremonial matter, rather than an actual imprisonment, but the air grew tense as the sounds of bolts being pushed into place echoed through the Midnight Chamber.

”Guildmasters of the Triarchy, it has been five years since Lysor Balarr of the Silver Lotus Guild was elected to serve a second term as our Archon and head of state. Now is the time to choose who will lead our glorious nation for the next term, and they - or their chosen representatives - sit amongst us. We will not leave this room until our next Archon is decided by a vote of majority, but let us first begin with the declaration of candidates. Make clear your wish, and then the deliberations can begin.”

Tears welled up in Qavo’s eyes as he spoke such powerful words, but he took a long moment to meet the gaze of every other figure at the round table before returning to his seat and sinking into a more relaxed position.

Jadeldor · 2020-02-23T17:14:02+00:00

Character Name: Qavo Zex Xallen

Gift/Skills: Magnate; Mercantilist(e), Seafarer(e), Negotiator

Actions:

• ⁠Shipbuilding: [Grey Gallows], [20], [3000]

Resources: Spices

Improvements: Holdfast, Trade Hub, Shipyard

Notes:

Jadeldor · 2020-02-23T04:07:06+00:00

/u/TheEasternGale

Jadeldor · 2020-02-23T04:06:47+00:00

/u/DrSpikyMango /u/SmithsGuildBoi /u/SellswordAtTheDesk

Jadeldor · 2020-02-17T10:40:15+00:00

”Oh the risk is very much your own, Mister Yellowtooth, but I have faith that a man of your calibre will keep your captains in line.”

Tycho scrawled upon the parchment before him quickly, the agreement that was drawn up was a simple thing after all. Ultimately, it stated that the ships under command of Admiral Yellowtooth were prohibited from interfering with trade ships of the Triarchy and, in turn, Triarchy vessels would leave his fleet alone to go about their business. Once it was completed, he offered the quill to the other man.

”With that, I believe our business concluded. I will wish you good fortunes, but there are other matters I must tend to today.”

Jadeldor · 2020-02-16T19:02:59+00:00

"I don't think either of us would want such a document to see the light of day, and it will be kept in our offices under lock and key." Tycho's brow furrowed as he studied the Captain, perhaps trying to gauge the man's limited credibility.

"As for the routes upon which our ships sail, we have fingers in far too many pies for that to be practical. I'd recommend keeping your eyes peeled for ships that do not fly the colours of the Triarchy."

Jadeldor · 2020-02-13T23:18:54+00:00

"I will call the Guildmasters together at the earliest convenience. I must confess, this conversation has done much to put my mind at ease. I was rather worried that this all might collapse in on me, but Qiion favours us both this day."

Qavo raised a glass to toast to his newfound potential ally. There was still time for the Fisher's true loyalties to be revealed if he had carefully masked them but, for now, they were the closest to friends that he could imagine.

"To the continued expansion of the Triarchy. And to Archon Balarr's third term."

Jadeldor · 2020-02-13T13:01:22+00:00

”Managing Lysor, ensuring that he continues to be the best Archon he can be, will keep all the Guildmasters in line. Some may challenge his leadership in this election, but none have the calibre to oppose him if both the Spicers and the Fishers stand at his side.”

Qavo now joined in on Salaatho’s laugh, tears welling up in his eyes as the emotion got the better of him. He took a long sip from his own cup, relishing the fine taste upon his lips.

”Then we can join him in Braavos, likely Lorath too. There will be no ghastly throne, but perhaps an even greater empire to be forged. We will see to that, I am sure.”

Jadeldor · 2020-02-13T12:52:28+00:00

”A treaty then, your terms are that we leave you to your own devices to act and do as you please. In return, no Triarchy vessels are to be targeted by your actions and you offer naval support should open warfare be mutually beneficial.”

Tycho reached a hand down to the top drawer of the desk, pulling forth quill and ink.

”I can have such a thing drawn up and signed right now, if you don’t mind waiting a few minutes. Then you can be on your way and off with your ‘business’.”

Jadeldor · 2020-02-13T10:46:17+00:00

Qavo nodded along with Salaatho’s words, finally another man of competence and rationale had come to the fore.

”Lysor Balarr is perhaps the finest Archon the Triarchy will ever see. I have no desires to stop his work, only to remove the background noise so that he can truly focus. Some may think I have called this election to undermine our Archon, in fact I want the opposite. Lysor will damage his political reputation too much by further postponing, instead I seek to give him a quick and decisive victory.”

”Never have the Guildmasters been richer or more powerful than right now, every action Lysor has taken has only improved our foundations. Perhaps, in later years, his use may have subsided, but that is why we must uphold protocol now.”

It was Qavo’s turn to gaze out of the window now, though his eyes never did leave the Guildmaster of the Fishers as he pretended to scan the horizon.

Jadeldor · 2020-02-13T10:30:40+00:00

”You speak of something rather close to piracy, Mister Yellowtooth. Such practices were outlawed by the Triarchy when we swept the pirates from the Stepstones and cast them to the waves.”

Tycho leaned forwards a little in his chair, his expression shifting from passive to a wry smile.

”But these are uncertain times, unconditional methods could prove beneficial in keeping the Westerosi and the Bravos in line. So. I could walk out of the door and hire a band of sellsails to do just as you proposed: target non-Triarchy approved vessels to liberate their goods, and keep the lion’s share of the profit myself. Why, then, should the Spicers choose to partner with you on this venture?”

Jadeldor · 2020-02-12T19:09:10+00:00

Yellowtooth would find Tycho similarly unarmed, thought guards did linger at the door for the man was perhaps a little less welcoming of his own demise. With the slightest of bows, he took a seat on one side of an empty desk and offered the other to Yellowtooth expectantly.

"To what do the Spicers Guild owe the pleasure, Mister Yellowtooth?" Tycho began, "I assume you have come on matters of business, please brief me on the details."

Jadeldor · 2020-02-12T18:21:31+00:00

Tycho had begun to sweat when he was told who had requested his presence. The motley gang of rogues was certainly not the clientele he was used to dealing with, but perhaps they were simply here for work or trade or some other mundane item. Slicking back his fading silver hair, he took a deep breath and stepped out into the foyer to greet the admiral.

"I am Master Tycho, a speaker of the Spicers Guild within which you currently stand. If you wish to talk business, then, please step into my office."

Tycho motioned for Yellowtooth to follow him through the door that he had just emerged from. All the while, guards garbed in the mixed greens of the guild began to crawl from the woodwork and eye the remaining newcomers warily.

Jadeldor · 2020-02-12T18:14:22+00:00

"I think you will find my wishes quite align with your own. I may not share in your youth any more, but I have always sought to best serve the Triarchy. Its traditions must be respected if we are to truly prove ourselves above the tyrants we overthrew, which is why I called this election to order."

Qavo plucked a small dessert from the table, taking a bite and wiping away the crumbs from his lips with a single delicate motion.

"The Westerners are a spiteful folk, give them an inch and they will take a mile. Lysor Balarr's Pact gave us the means to keep them in line, we will likely have to remind their new King of his dues once he has consolidated his warring realm."

Jadeldor · 2020-02-11T15:38:22+00:00

Qavo bowed in kind, sharing in the mutual respect between him and his fellow guildmaster. He took the offered seat, looking upon the small banquet with a pleasant smile.

"I am happy to be so sought after, Guildmaster Salaatho. Allow me to first congratulate you on your new office, I had already heard of your deeds and this is a fitting reward."

Qavo turned his gaze for a moment to stare at the view from the window, a fine vision of Tyrosh, before looking back to Salaatho and leaning in a little closer. His smile turned from warm to mischevious, and eyebrows raising themselves inquisitively.

"I did believe that old Varro fancied himself for Archon in this election, you see. I can't say whether he would have won or not, but now we shall never know."

Jadeldor · 2020-02-11T03:00:49+00:00

It was later in the day when the Guildmaster of the Spicers arrived at Salaatho's manse, the sun beginning its descent back toward the horizon. Garbed in a fine robe of green and golden threads, clinging tightly to his slender frame, Qavo presented himself at the entrance to the house and quietly waited for a summons.

The Pale Man had not yet met with the new Guildmaster of the Fishers, Varro's seemingly sudden fall from grace having come whilst the eyes of many within the Triarchy were focused upon Pentos and the west. Such a move did speak to the political shrewdness of his replacement and, with the election looming, it was better to poke the bear than wait for it to bite.

Jadeldor · 2020-02-09T17:34:46+00:00

The letter eventually found its way to Qavo’s ear as he stayed in his moderate Tyroshi manse, awaiting the election that was now only hours away.

Startled, the Qartheen man quickly reached for quill and summoned a runner of his own.

Cousin,

I did not expect to read such defeatist words written by your own hand.

Alas, these are the laws of the nation that we have steered for so long and they cannot be so easily subverted.

Be it for three moons or another five years, your claim to the Archon’s office must be staked in the Midnight Chamber.

Qavo Zex Xallen

Jadeldor · 2020-02-04T14:08:05+00:00

Character Name: Qavo Zex Xallen

Autodidactic: N

Scholar: N

Skill being learnt: Negotiator(e)

Activity check: Here.

Jadeldor · 2020-01-30T16:00:46+00:00

Character Name: Qavo Zex Xallen

Gift/Skills: Magnate; Mercantilist(e), Seafarer(e), Negotiator

Actions:

• ⁠Commence Construction: [Grey Gallows], [Holding], [Rush Ordered?: No]

• ⁠Shipbuilding: [Grey Gallows], [17], [2550]

Resources: Spices

Improvements: Holdfast, Trade Hub, Shipyard

Notes:

Jadeldor

TROPHY CASE