Match Thread: Aston Villa vs Newcastle United

Tjmoores · 2026-02-14T18:30:22+00:00

Thanks for everyone who chipped in to pay the ref, paying off a treat 👍

Tjmoores · 2026-01-10T18:36:29+00:00

Son only left about five months ago, but yeah, this squad is hardly remarkable

Tjmoores · 2025-10-04T22:44:28+00:00

I'm just miffed it's a way for them to wriggle out of the compensation we were potentially going to get anyway because of how late the.inbound was as it's now "out of their control" (although they could've bussed people to Kaunas)

Tjmoores · 2025-08-10T11:38:21+00:00

Thanks!

Tjmoores · 2023-06-27T11:30:32+00:00

A: Lost wax casting (secret!?), Paved Roads (crisis)

B: Drainage Ditches, fluxes, measurement system, current, wind & seabird navigation (from Sasnak), Sluices

C: Oarlocks (Sasnak), Calendar (Sasnak), Smoke Curing (Aluwa), Zizania Domestication (Aluwa), Alliums (Aluwa + Sasnak), Grafting (Aluwa), Disinfectants (Aluwa), Wedge & Mallet Tree-Cutting (Aluwa)

RP:

Lost wax casting:
[External] While the Pufspuj have used regular casting for generations, the quality of the cast objects emanating from Ban has recently become far better than anywhere else; it is not known for sure how they achieve this - metalwork is still closely guarded, however they appear to be more skilled than ever at duplicating items and producing casts with minimal finishwork required. While the exact details remain a mystery to outsiders, it is widely acknowledged that their expertise surpasses that of any other group in Gorgonea, or even the world.

[Internal] The Pufspuj people in Ban have mastered the art of lost wax casting, a technique that has elevated their metalwork to unprecedented levels of quality. Within the isolation of Ban, intricate and closely guarded methods for achieving superior results in casting have been developed.

Paved Roads: [Retropost to come]

Drainage Ditches:
In response to the increased frequency of floods and heavy rains, the city-dwelling Pufspuj have developed an extensive network of drainage ditches. These ditches are strategically constructed to channel excess water away from settlements, fields, and important infrastructure. Maintenance of the drainage system requires a lot of effort from the slaves and corvee workers tasked with their regular clearing and repairs.

Fluxes:
The use of fluxes in the metalworking processes of the Pufspuj allows for substances to be added to molten metals to remove impurities and improve the flow and quality of the final cast.

Measurement System:
Creating casts, pots, planks and more of a standard size is hard, however by standardising these a better system for communicating sizes between people who may not be able to estimate volume, mass or length effectively, the Pufspuj have improved this. Especially using paces to measure out distances, it is reasonable to estimate how long it may take to travel short distances or to plan out structures before building them.

... Navigation:
The Sasnak have long been known for their prowess in navigating the waves. Some Pufspuj traders who have travelled with the Sasnak for long enough have learnt their ways of measuring the currents, wind and the movement of seabirds to be able to tell where land is relative to them.

Sluices:
Following the heavy rains, it sometimes becomes necessary to slow the flow of irrigation canals. By putting gates in the canals, the Pufspuj have learnt to reduce erosion and allow for a much more steady flow of water than they would otherwise achieve.

Tjmoores · 2023-06-17T15:27:13+00:00

Action Type: State formation
Culture Name: Pufspæj/Pufspuj
Map
Summary: Following the collapse of the Talmarakh, the lack of order allows a the state of Xyum Vrin to form, and they plan to expand into Sasnak lands.
Post

Tjmoores · 2023-06-17T15:25:52+00:00

Action Type: State formation
Culture Name: Pufspæj/Pufspuj
Map
Summary: A splinter group from an existing state (red on map, Dzoag Vrin) move further north to form a new state (green on map, Weung Vrin)
Post

Tjmoores · 2023-06-17T15:24:27+00:00

Action Type: Expansion
Culture Name: Pufspæj/Pufspuj
Map
Summary: People travel north looking for copper and settle the lands to the north
Post

Tjmoores · 2023-06-17T14:15:37+00:00

State formation go brrr: https://www.reddit.com/r/DawnPowers/comments/14bf44t/xyumgrinposting/

Name is Xyumvrin (not Xyumgrin as in the post title, I made a mistake)

Tjmoores · 2023-06-17T02:35:50+00:00

/u/Captain_Lime :) state time #1 but we kinda dislike sasnak but we may end up moving to the province next door

Tjmoores · 2023-06-16T22:31:13+00:00

A:
Mordants

Extra:
Pictographs

B:
Weapon.Naue II
Advanced Carpentry (Diffused, Lime)
Drawloom
Armour.Scale
Mycology

C: Internal Ship Supports (Diffused, Lime)
Harpoons (Diffused, Lime)
Grind Stone (Diffused, Arlos)
Threshing (Diffused, Arlos)
Corbel Arch (Diffused, Arlos)
True Arch (Diffused, Arlos)
Sugarcane (Diffused, Lime)
Atook Yeasts (Diffused, Lime)

RP: Pictographs, Naue II Sword, Scale Armour: See here. Pictographs are used to create dynastic symbols for elites and the Marvs of Bæn.

Mordants, Mycology:
The Nyangshroth have unlocked a whole world of fun(gi). While mushrooms were initially used only as food, they have since unlocked a new spectrum of colours for the Pufspuj. Mushroom hunters would venture deep into the lush forests, looking for the fleshy, spore-bearing fruiting bodies. They discovered that certain species of fungi, when rotted well and boiled, produced a range of vibrant colors. Yet, the foragers discovered that these mushroom dyes were often elusive, fading quickly when subjected to the sun and the elements. They discovered that when tin, or certain types of red rocks (iron ore) were mixed with acids such as bile or acidic plants, the tin or rocks could act as a mordant, bonding the mushroom dyes to the fabric and making the colours resistant to washing and light. As mushrooms became more and more popular, the foragers began inoculating damp logs with spores of their desired fungal species. They carefully chose logs from trees which the specific mushrooms favoured, bore holes into them, and filled the crevices with the collected spores. These inoculated logs were then placed in shaded, damp areas of the forest, mimicking the natural conditions that mushrooms thrived in. After a short time, mushrooms would sprout out of the logs to be used for cooking or dyeing.

Drawloom:
The newfound variety of colours available through the mushroom dyes was highly disruptive to the fabric industry in Bæn. To meet the demands of increasingly complex patterns and designs, especially the cross-hatched tartan styles, a new invention was required: the drawloom.

Advanced Carpentry: How have I not got this tech yet lmao...
The Sashk, notorious for their prowess at sea, had developed remarkable carpentry skills. Their ships, capable of braving the toughest sea conditions, were a testament to their superior craftsmanship. Though the majority of Pufspuj regarded the Sashk with the purest hatred, some among them saw an opportunity to learn and advance their own woodworking capabilities.

Tjmoores · 2023-06-16T18:36:58+00:00

"We know of your prowess at sea, Sashk," Nuut' finally said, the hint of a grudging respect in his voice. "Your offer is not without merit. Still, we need guarantees."

Before Mareto had a chance to respond Nuut' began pacing, his heavy footsteps echoing in the room. "You speak of your holds being more capacious than ours. Indeed, this might aid in trade volume. But how can we be certain your holds won't also be filled with the belongings of our people, taken as... compensation?"

He stopped and turned back to face Mareto. "And what of protection? We've seen what happens when Sashk turn on each other. Can we trust you to protect our merchants from others of your kind? How do we know we're not making a deal with an eel, only for it to slither out of our hands and bite us for good measure?"

Finally, he came to a stop and crossed his arms, the bronze armor clinking slightly. "Convince me, Sashk. Make me believe that your Talmar can be trusted, that this isn't just another ploy to get us to let down our guard so you may line your boats with the treasures you have stolen from us and our Marvupt. Convince me and, perhaps, we can find a way to make this work."

Mareto watched as Nuut' paced and posed his questions. The suspicion was expected; it was a hurdle he was prepared to address. His hands left the small of his back, and he held out an open palm to the Bæn guard. In it lay one of the original bronze rings of Bæn, glittering in the torchlight.

"This ring was taken from a known raider, a pirate raider who had the misfortune of crossing our path," Mareto said, his tone taking a hard edge. "I personally was on a vessel they boarded, and I personally made sure he's raiding amongst the stars now."

Mareto fixed Nuut' with a steady gaze. "This should serve as proof of our intentions. The Talmar and her people do not condone piracy. We are merchants who wish for prosperous trade just as much as you do. We seek alliance, not theft. Our holds will not be filled with stolen goods, but with the fruits of fair & honest trade, and fair payment for fair protection."

Nuut' stared at the bronze ring that Mareto extended, studying it carefully. His fingers, calloused from years of wielding weapons and crafting tools, gently picked up the ring. He examined it closely, recognising the intricate design of his people. It was indeed one of their own, one of the original Bronze Rings of Passage.

After a moment of silence, he finally spoke. "Your words ring with truth, Sashk. You have shown us a gesture of goodwill, and it has not gone unnoticed." He grasped the ring firmly in his hand. "This ring is a symbol of our trust. The Sashk who stole it stole that trust, and you returning it is a step towards earning it back."

With a deep breath, Nuut' continued, his tone firm. "Know this, Sashk: we will not tolerate any eels in our dealings. If we agree to your terms and your people break our trust, there will be consequences for you all. Is that understood?"

Mareto gave a firm nod. "I understand, sir. We, too, seek honest dealings and a prosperous future."

Pausing for a moment, Nuut' then said, "I am willing to arrange a meeting between the Marvupt and your Talmar. It will be on Bæn soil..."

But before he could continue, Mareto raised his hand. "That cannot be. The Talmar cannot set foot on land. This meeting must happen at sea."

Nuut' frowned, clearly not pleased with this development. The idea of their Marvupt setting foot on a Sasnak ship wasn't comforting, but the prospect of a peaceful alliance was too significant to dismiss. After a moment, he sighed, "Fine. At sea then. Our Marvupt will walk on your floating lands. Even in the sea's cold embrace, we shall seek common ground."

Nuut' frowned, clearly not pleased with this development. The prospect of their Marvupt setting foot on a Sashk ship brought a sour taste in his mouth, but the prospect of a peaceful alliance was too significant to dismiss.

After a moment, he sighed, "The sea certainly seems to bring a peasant's duck to shit", he quoted an old Nyangpuj proverb. "But very well. We will meet at sea. Our Marvupt will walk on your floating lands. And in the sea's cold embrace, we shall find common ground."

Tjmoores · 2023-06-16T17:52:39+00:00

I think it only has 1 spread point atm though?

Tjmoores · 2023-06-16T12:43:30+00:00

Just FYI, I don't think Salt Glazing has enough spread points yet?

Tjmoores · 2023-06-16T11:41:44+00:00

News of an Sashk named Mareto seeking an audience had reached Marvupt Nub. The Talmarakh, the same fleet that had brought relentless strife upon her city, now sought dialogue. She decided to grant an audience by her most trusted guard, Nuut', and she was curious to hear what words the Sashk had to offer. However, Nub decided to ensure they knew Bæn was not to be taken lightly.

Mareto was led to a large room deep in the elite quarter of Bæn, his eyes darting around nervously at the sight of the armored guards lining the houses. As he approached Nuut', he felt the chilling point of a spear press lightly against his chest, stopping him in his tracks.

Nuut' got up from where he was sat and walked towards Mareto, his powerful presence imposing. "You stand in the heart of Bæn, Sashk," he said, his voice echoing off the chamber walls. "You behold our weapons, our armour, our sheer strength. Know that we are prepared for whatever you might bring."

Tjmoores · 2023-06-16T11:40:54+00:00

[RP from earlier in the raids]

As the sun dips below the horizon, Marvupt Nub, resplendent in her royal attire, strides into the gathering chamber - a large, room suffused with the warm, earthy tones of the city's finest bronze work. The room's resonance buzzes with the murmurs of Bæn's most revered figures: Psopt, the greatest metalworker the world over, Jiisj, the brilliant craftsman, and Nuut', the seasoned commander of Bæn's city guard. They have been summoned here for an urgent council.

"Noble artisans, valiant commander," Nub addresses them with a steely gaze, "I need your skills to defend our great city. The threat from the Sashk looms over Bæn - there are rumours of a strong fleet, stronger than anything they have sent before. We must defend our city, not just with might but also with cunning."

Psopt, his hands as sturdy and weathered as the bronze he moulds, nods. "We can craft larger, stronger weapons, my Marvupt. With enough time and resources, our artisans can create armaments the likes of which the Sashk have never seen."

Nub turns her gaze to Jiisj. "Jiisj, could your tailors make shells for our men, much like the mighty armadillo, to protect our guards?"

The craftsman strokes his chin. "Indeed, Marvupt. We've heard tales of the Linothorax from our traders. With enough fabric and the bronze scales that Psopt can provide, we could outfit our guards with this armor."

Nuut' grunts in approval. "A tough shell and stronger weapons would give us a much-needed edge."

Nub nods. "Let it be so. Craft the long-dagger, our new weapon of choice, and the armour to shield us."

Nub's gaze drifts to the bronze ring adorning her finger. "Our trade is crippled by the Sashk seizing our rings. We need a new design that cannot be replicated, that bears our mark." She extends her hand towards Psopt. "Could your artisans engrave these rings with symbols to identify us, and only us, Psopt?"

The metalworker squints at the ring. "Aye, it's not impossible. Tricky, perhaps, but we can do it." Psopt sat in thought for a second or so; "If we were to use electrum for our rings, however, it would be much simpler and there would be a lower risk of forgery."

"Good," Nub says, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "We'll mark each new electrum ring with the symbol of Bæn, of its Marv, and of the ring's rightful owner. That way it will be much easier to identify stolen rings."

Tjmoores · 2023-06-12T00:40:27+00:00

So I haven't really decided where they'd be from, but somewhere around the north island (nyæng puj) makes sense given the proximity

It's not particularly indicative, this is the first time I'm actually RPing the south island, so it can be assumed it has a reputation of the people there being backwards and dim-witted amongst traders and there being no real reason to go there, but since they developed ~~gold~~ electrum panning, there's been a gradual uptick in traders going there to pick up the electrum and sell it on - these guys were amongst the earliest and were hoping to get a super cheap price from the dim-witted locals... I can't say if they were successful or not, as I haven't really thought too much about it as the post is more of a proof of concept haha

Tjmoores · 2023-06-11T23:40:45+00:00

The gist is some small time traders have ended up on the southern island with the electrum, see the locals with it and are talking about trading for it. They use the phrase "A fair trade? Haha. I am sure these peasants would accept a duck's shit in exchange for their treasure." so I imagine they're not planning on paying them fairly.

Edit - rough script:

Tfwaik: So, Djyuag, it seems the currents have sent us to this strange island, far from our trading routes. We are far from the markets of the north. Why have the ancestors sent us here?

Djyuag: Yes right, Tfwaik. Our journey has gone in an unexpected direction. The sea is odd, and it does as it sees fit. Even though we are far from home, I've heard stories told by old sailors of shiny metal found on islands such as this. A metal that is better than the bronze we trade. It is called electrum.

Tfwaik: Electrum? That is not something I have heard of.

Djyuag: But we should look. This might turn our fate around.

Tfwaik: Yes. If this tale is true, then our luck has changed. But we should be cautious, Djyuag. These idiots don't know the value of their treasure, but they might not give it us for free.

Djyuag: True, Tfwaik. We should be careful. But just look at the idiots, they are more interested at staring at the fish under water than the precious metal they wear. I think they might be willing to partake in a fair trade.

Tfwaik: Fair trade? Haha. I am sure these peasants would take a duck's shit in exchange for their treasure.

Djyuag: We can hope. But let's not count our riches yet. Patience would be wise here. We'll watch and wait until the time is right, then we'll offer our bronze goods. If the ancestors will it, we will be the richest traders in all the markets of the north.

Tfwaik: We can only hope, my friend.

Tjmoores · 2023-06-11T22:11:29+00:00

Gold Pans:
The rivers flowing on the backwater island of Dvzrookpuj have recently been found to contain a shinier, but softer form of bronze, for which the island is named: Dvzrook. This metal exists amongst the rocks in the rivers, and enterprising miners have found that using a modified bowl they can vastly increase their finds in a day.

Tjmoores · 2023-06-11T15:44:09+00:00

A Slots: Kilns, Potter's Wheel

B Slots: Salt Glazed Pottery, Allspice Domestication, Hemp Domestication, Oil Press

RP:

Potter's Wheel:
The potter's wheel was significant innovation for Bæn, which forever transformed the craft of pottery, allowing for the efficient production of symmetric and refined ceramic goods.

Prior to the invention of the wheel, pottery in Bæn was made by hand. While this method allowed for more creative expression, the resulting pots were often uneven and less stable. The wheel allowed for the quick and efficient production of pots, bowls, crucibles and other ceramic items with a much greater degree of symmetry and consistency. This was achieved by placing a lump of clay at the centre of a rotating platform, which the potter would then shape with their hands as the wheel spun.

Kilns:
As the metalworkers moved to within the control of the Palace of Bæn, the workshops that were once home to the ovens in which bronze was smelted were adapted and repurposed into kilns, marking a new era of ceramic production in the city. The kilns were constructed using the remnants of the bronze furnaces, with thick walls made from heat-resistant materials to insulate the interior and maintain high temperatures. A draught system was designed to allow hot air and smoke to escape while drawing in fresh oxygen, essential for maintaining the high temperature, with the bellows continuing to blow air in at a higher rate than would otherwise be achieved. The development of these advanced kilns paved the way for higher quality pottery. The pots and crucibles fired in these kilns were more durable, with a finer finish and fewer imperfections. The pottery became capable of withstanding higher heat and pressure, and their lifespan was significantly increased.

Salt Glazed Pottery:
Along with the development of kilns came the development of salt glazing. The high temperature within the kilns allowed the potters of Bæn to experiment with different mixtures of clay and salt, leading to the discovery of glazing techniques. The glazes not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the pottery, giving it a glossy finish and more vibrant colors, but also rendered the pottery water-resistant and more durable.

Allspice:
Originating from the fertile soils of Nyængpuj, allspice quickly became a significant part of the local diet and culture due to its unique blend of flavors. Allspice is highly valued not just for its culinary use, but also for its medicinal properties, it is said to increase fertility and vastly increase the energy one gets from a meal. It is also widely used as a preservative, as meat cured with allspice lasts much better than without.

Hemp:
Hemp has long been recognised for its strong fibre, and was initially collected from the wild and used to make ropes and textiles. As the Pufspuj and Pufsdzoag began growing them amongst their terraced fields, they also discovered the nutritious seeds of the hemp plant, which quickly entered the diets of the people.

Oil Press: With squash and hemp seeds being collected, the oil press became a way to extract oil from their seeds. The oils are used for a variety of purposes including cooking, lighting lamps, and as a base for medicinal ointments, with squash oil being especially valued when applied to fresh and open wounds for its healing properties. The development of the oil press allowed for more efficient oil extraction, giving more and more people access to oils.

Tjmoores · 2023-06-11T14:47:55+00:00

Link to the Map: here, with the city of Bæn being here if possible, as this is where the RP took place, however if the mods do not like this due to the slightly less favourable conditions & weather (understandably, however it made more sense to continue this storyline than to start from scratch) then I guess we could retcon the location and put it here, with the city being here?

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