Tag: kerryn

#Lore 24 – Entry #95 – Sci-Fi Month II #4 – Robotic Security Drones

 

From the Personal Journal of Kiara Mizutani, Arcane Support Division, assigned UEF-04 Maharani Morgiana

All things considered I think the date went fine.  Nothing serious of course, just a little hook-up to pass the time before heading out, that kind of thing.  Martin was pleasant enough, a bit nervous after I showed up with a crop top, my new fancy shorts, a pair of those super-long slouchy socks I used to wear back at the Academy, and my super-sexy heels.  Apparently I did tell him, and he was totally okay with that, just didn’t think I would show up looking so hot.  He just couldn’t keep his eyes off the shorts.  I think I’ve got a winner with these!  Anyway, after he bought dinner we slipped off to his motel room for a little sexy time.  I think that was his first foot-job.  Pretty sure I blew his mind with that one 😉

I had to take care of some work stuff today, so I didn’t get to explore too much, not until I was given an updated list of items I was expected to have along for the expedition and realized I was missing a few things, so off to the Big Bazaar and the shopping modules for me!  But I wasn’t expecting that security alert at all!  I had my defensive ward up before I realized it!  I guess that’s a good thing, though?  I mean, it seems like a good thing to me, anyway.  I guess there was some criminal or something like that got spotted or tried to rob someone or something, I never could get a straight answer, but I did not expect that kind of security!  Like, robotic drones!

But not the ones I’m used to, like, nothing of the sort!  There were several of the flying camera drones you see everywhere, yeah, but these, I thought they were big guys in heavy armor, but these were robots!  Humanoid robotic drones!  Turns out, I’d seen them before, just standing around here and there when I was exploring, but they never moved, so I thought they were some kind of fancy statues or something for decoration.  Nope!  These things kind of put me in mind of old-style armored knights in a way, like a bit on the bulky side, and with heads that were a bit too squashed to fit a standard humanoid, with some angular antennas on the head and glowing red monoeye scanners.  They even had the shields too, but were using stun batons instead of swords.  They had stun guns, too, and I think some other weapons for restraining targets, but I didn’t get to see them in action.  The group of them just came through the street, scanning all over, and then continued on, followed by some regular meaty security and some technician I think.

I had to kill some time waiting for the module lockdown to end, but once I got back to the office I asked around about them.  Turns out they’re pretty new, still a little experimental even.  I really have to give it to the company head!  Ms. Veylani isn’t the least bit afraid to push the envelope and try new things!  Apparently there was this little startup company who wanted to test these new style drones out here in the Demon Sector since so many places back across the Barrier are against the idea, but once she’d found out about it last year, she totally jumped on the idea!  There are even some experiments going on relating to arcane enhancements and golemcraft, but I couldn’t get much on that; top secret company stuff, so yeah, a newbie like me just isn’t going to have that kind of clearance.

Still, pretty neat!  I wonder if we’ll have any of these onboard the Morgiana for our big trip?  Apparently since VTC partnered with the SealTech people, these things even carry some kind of proprietary restraint tech, too.  Like, some kind of “goop” grenades to immobilize several people at once and some are equipped with guns that shoot bullets made of the same stuff.  I guess they won’t give them actual lethal weaponry.  Not that I’d expect something like that on a station, of course.  I mean, what if one of these things went crazy and started shooting up the place?  There are supposedly precautions in place to stop that kind of thing, but you know…robotics haven’t really developed much for reasons…but I guess that would make sense why they’re looking at ancient golemcraft then, wouldn’t it?

#Lore 24 – Entry #94 – Sci-Fi Month II #3 – Aphelion Station

 

From the Personal Journal of Kiara Mizutani, Arcane Support Division, assigned UEF-04 Maharani Morgiana

Wow!  Just…wow!  I knew heading to the Demon Sector was like, the thing to do these days, but I didn’t think it was this popular.  There were hours-long lines waiting at Perihelion Station just to get registered to take one of those super-huge transports through the Barrier.  Thank Saressh I was already fast-tracked through on a Veylani company ship, or I’d still be there!

But if I thought the lines were bad outside the Barrier, was I ever in for a surprise!  Even though Aphelion Station is bigger than its sister, I think it’s even more crowded!  I guess it’s not called the “Gateway to the Demon Sector” for nothing!  Even the company docking module was packed, people coming and going.  Once I’d checked in, I found that the ship I’ve been assigned to, Maharani Morgiana, was headed to the Valefar system for some tests, so I had some time to explore, seeing as my supervising arcanist was along for the ride.  I wonder what she’s like?  I tried to look up some information on her during the trip here, but didn’t really find much; guess she’s not a very outgoing kind of person?  She did look a little grumpy in her employee ID photo, but everyone has a bad day, I guess! 

Anyway, the station…just…it’s so overwhelming!  There are so many people and races and cultures all mixed together here, like one big bazaar!  Well, I guess that could be a little confusing, considering that there is a module here actually called the “Big Bazaar”, where all the smaller merchants are housed.  I just wanted to take a little stroll through there, but I wound up spending almost the whole day there!  Even Arcavarlon during its new year festival season was nothing like this!  There was so much stuff for sale there, and most of it was found or made in the colonies that have already started up in the Demon Sector.  I got to try actual food from Valefar, real food from the Demon Sector!  It was some kind of big bird or something like that; I didn’t want to ask too many details, but it smelled so tasty!  It was pretty good, but it was really hot, like, spicy hot, but the rattenvolk vendor assured me that was all natural.  Something with the local wildlife, I think he said?  I’ll have to look into it later, maybe.

Other than that, I think I was pretty responsible!  I’m getting a good paycheck and all from the company, but no sense spending all my money just yet, right?  I only bought like a dozen or so little souvenirs, and half of those are jewelry, so memorable and functional!  Those earrings I got really set off my eyes, I think!

This morning I took a trip to the entertainment sector.  Just…wow!  I don’t think this station sleeps at all, especially not in those modules!  There are plenty of fancier restaurants and bars there, gambling and betting parlors, theaters, sports facilities, gosh, just everything!  There were a lot, like, a huge amount of sex clubs there too.  I got a lot of offers to stop in for some playtime and for some serious work, and the looks I kept getting from passersby…if this job with Veylani falls through, I’ve got options, I guess!

There are lots of places to shop, too, selling the kinds of things you can find across the Barrier, like name brands and the latest releases and stuff!  Guess that kinda makes sense, given all the corporate representation here, and the fact that the shops are right off the main passenger offloading areas.  Total tourist trap!  By the way, I just had to get this sexy little pair of pink booty shorts I found in one of the stores there, even if I might’ve spent a little too much on them.  I mean, next payday is just a couple days from now, so I should be fine… Gods, they are so cute! And they fit purrfectly!  Not even a bit pinchy, not even around my tail, and just a bit squeaky, but in a sexy way!  And that pocket for my man-bits has like the most comfortable snugness ever!  I just had to change into them right then and there, and I’ve been wearing them since!  Kind of wish I hadn’t worn a skirt today so I could show them off, actually…but my top wouldn’t match, and I’m trying to be responsible with my spending here!  I’d heard about these SexyTech clothes but hadn’t seen a lot of them around, and these were on sale (still super expensive, though!).  Guess maybe that’s that whole bad reputation thing at work since they’re from the same parent company that makes SealTech?  I mean, if this stuff is good enough for the head of Veylani to wear, then it can’t be that bad, right?  Hmmm…maybe I should look into getting a loan so I can get a full outfit?  The sales clerk did mention financing was available, for any financial bracket, after all… I mean, this stuff is self-cleaning, or it’s supposed to be, and the more expensive versions have color changing and shapeshifting properties, so maybe it wouldn’t be a bad idea?  I mean, having a whole wardrobe in one outfit would be super handy!  We are going off into the unknown for a few years, and that means I’d have a lot less laundry to do… But maybe it’d be a bad idea, too?  I am feeling a little horny wearing these shorts, but maybe that’s just those delicious little oysters I had for lunch at work? 

Oh, so, after that, I just had to go visit the gardens.  As expected of a place managed by the Greenwhiskers, they were beautiful!  Like, so peaceful and calm, and located at the uppermost level, so mostly above the hundreds of ships and the bulk of the station.  Somehow the Barrier from this side seems a bit less threatening, maybe a little calmer, even.  Pretty neat!  And not very crowded, so that’s a good thing! 

Gosh, look at the time!  I have to get going; I’ve got a date tonight!  Did I mention I met this really cute human guy fresh out of the Barrier today?  Well, I did, and since we’re both new here and we kind of hit it off, I figured what the heck, why not give it a shot, even if it’s just a quick little hookup?  He’s outbound on a cargo transport in a couple days, I think he said, but I can’t remember where he said he was going.  He might not know I’m a guy, though…I don’t think I mentioned it?  Maybe I did?  I might’ve been thinking with my other head at the time; I’m still feeling pretty horny, and I’m really feeling the tightness of the bulge in these shorts right now… Oh well, it’s a chance at a free meal, so I’ll take it!

 

#Lore24 – Entry #88 – Fantasy Month #28 – Kerryn Courier and Transport Services

 

From the journal of Angeliqua “Goldeneyes” Cartacustos:

Truly something that could only exist within Draconis Magna and its immediate surroundings, and no doubt a sign of the decadence of the capital, for surely the merchants would have to be insane to attempt to implement these services elsewhere within the Empire.  Not the worst treatment of kerryn slaves that I have unfortunately heard of, but one can only imagine how it must feel to be in their position, essentially taking on the combined role of horses and messengers found in less decadent locations.

There are several of these services within the capital as I understand it, and many of the nobility retain their own kerryn slaves thusly trained for personal correspondence; even the Senate and lesser government offices makes use of kerryn couriers; tales abound of the streets being absolutely flooded with running kerryn messengers during emergency situations, especially during times of war.  It does make sense to some extent, however, for many of the streets within the capital are narrow and maze-like, especially in the older parts of the city, so those able to swiftly navigate an area like the Tangles would be highly prized.

I suppose I should stop beating around the bush and get to the specifics; no doubt that is what Mother is more interested in anyway.  The typical kerryn courier is bedecked in specialized slave gear (previously referenced in my discussion of the “Slave Scholar” expedition) to enhance their long-range endurance and carrying capacity, and trained specifically for either speed and maneuverability, or for strength, endurance, and teamwork.  They are treated very much like prized horses in this regard and trained according to some of the very same principles used by master horse trainers; even their specialized gear is fashioned after that of horses.  They typically wear some form of enchanted pack harnesses, longstrider hoof boots, and feeder bit gags, and their collars are able to track their location using the same magics that are found in the master/slave rings, with the same reward/punishment capabilities.  Gear coloration and accessories (bells, piercings, and the like) are used to differentiate kerryns by their agency, and likewise serve as advertisement for the services.  What could be more desirable, after all, than a well-trained kerryn slave who has the single-minded purpose of obeying their master and performing their task with utmost efficiency?  Or so goes the most common opinion on their appearance.  Either way, those running these services pride themselves in their efficiency and loyalty of their slaves, and compete fiercely to be the best of the best; they even organize races and tournaments with their kerryn slaves throughout the year for bragging rights.

The ”sprinter” couriers are generally meant for delivering messages and small packages rapidly, their harnesses equipped with smaller pockets and pouches clearly designated with the recipient’s name so there will be no confusion as to what item is meant for who.  The “heavy hauler” couriers are responsible for moving larger loads throughout the city, and generally work in teams of two or more while attached to carts and wagons; some are even used to carry people through the city as a standard carriage service would.

Not having to pay the rider or driver is certainly advantageous for those running these operations, for the kerryns are able to follow instructions to the letter and know the routes within the city like nobody else, for it is their purpose to be as quick as possible in their deliveries.  Their training, as mentioned earlier, focuses them entirely upon their intended tasks, meaning that they have little in the way of extraneous thoughts to distract them from their goal.  They are at peak physical condition as well, with the sprinters being possessed of lithe and well-toned bodies, and the haulers having muscles that could be the envy of most orcish warriors.  Though rarely involved in fighting, it is not entirely unheard of that these couriers become targets of thieves or the unwary horny traveler, they are capable of defending themselves much like any normal horse would, the haulers especially have something of a reputation for their powerful kicks and stomps when thusly provoked.

 

#Lore24 – Entry #85 – Fantasy Month #25 – The Stellae Illustris

 

From the journal of Angeliqua “Goldeneyes” Cartacustos:

Those not familiar with the internal workings of the Empire and its history may think the idea of a highly trained knightly order composed entirely of kerryn slaves strange, but it really isn’t given the conditions that led to its foundation and the capacity in which it is used today.  Credit where it is due, when the concept was first proposed and implemented by the Emperor several centuries ago, during a particularly tumultuous time for the Empire, it was an absolutely brilliant concept.  The idea of using slaves as soldiers certainly wasn’t new even then but given the number of enemies the Empire faced at the time, admittedly weak leadership in the capital, and multiple small uprisings throughout its borders, quelling the growing dissent in the oldest and lowest class of slaves, the kerryns, was absolutely required lest the very foundation of the Empire crumble.  What better way to stabilize and reinforce the status quo than giving the kerryn something to strive for, some way to pull themselves up from the bottom to somewhere far above anything else they could have imagined at the time?

Originally, the Stellae Illustris was developed as a reward and honor for the most loyal and dedicated of kerryns; those who had defended their masters with their very lives were most highly regarded, granting such slaves honors as would befit a holy saint.  Those who had displayed similar loyalty and dedication to their masters were brought into the Order and given special training never before given to kerryn slaves, teaching them not only the use of weapons and armor in an official capacity, but also limited forms of magic, most often healing and protection, though some have learned more destructive incantations.  These kerryns were likewise granted privileges that placed them higher than any other of their kind had ever been within the Empire, above even the common peasant, though still far from being free, as their specially marked collars proudly proclaim, inscribed with the seal of the Emperor on one side and their unique seal of the Great Lion, fashioned after the constellation of the same name.  The garb of the Stellae Illustris tends to favor the colors of the Emperor himself, gold and red, though full members of the Order can be easily identified by their brilliant glowing eyes, supposedly through which the Emperor may see their good deeds and praise them accordingly. 

If there had been any question as to the loyalty of the kerryns up to that point, they were quickly dismissed as the kerryn populace rapidly took to the idea and an overwhelming majority of them rededicated themselves to their masters and to their most gracious and benevolent Emperor, hoping that they too could join the Stellae Illustris if they displayed the best qualities of a slave.  As time would go on, given the average kerryn lifespan, many would find themselves considered to join the Order’s ranks, though few would actually attain full membership and knighthood.  Those who were at least considered would be honored in their own way, however, receiving a special magical mark upon their bodies that showed them to be favored by the Emperor for their good behavior, and placing them above their peers.

As with most things in the world, the Stellae Illustris has evolved in its duties and purpose over the centuries but remains as a highly coveted position for most kerryns to strive to obtain.  They serve not only the Emperor, but other important leaders within the Empire, acting as dedicated guardians and even advisors, given their long lives and experiences.  Stories are told of the bravery of the kerryn knights who valiantly defend their masters and the Empire, reinforcing the Emperor’s hold upon the loyalty of the common slaves, and the Order itself has taken on an almost religious nature with its fervent loyalty and renewed vows to faithfully serve the Emperor first and foremost, and even to hunt down and slay demons if they are found right alongside the Order of Rashnikova. 

Of course, the Order’s true mission has always been, and remains to be, keeping the kerryn slaves in line.  While outwardly appearing as a goodly order dedicated to rewarding the best of the slaves, internally it has evolved into something much more sinister.  Those kerryn who receive the honor mark are often those made responsible for training the newest slaves, and retraining those who would dare step out of line, usually with the cruelest methods, ensuring that loyalty is absolute.  Though most would scoff at the idea, kerryn inquisitors absolutely exist, within the ranks of those so  honored, and are often hidden amongst the regular slave population to root out discontent and quell any talk of rebellious activities before they can grow in any significant way. 

The current head of the Order, as has been the case since the early days of its creation, is the Emperor’s First Slave, the position currently held by Reika, who has held the position for several human generations now.  On the outside, the First Slave is a position reserved for the most loyal of the loyal, but internally Reika is known to be an especially cruel slave mistress who was once an inquisitor herself and has surrounded herself with those who share her particularly sadistic tastes.  She seems more than happy where she is, proudly displaying her loyalty and dedication to the Emperor and espousing the virtues of the Order to the lesser kerryn, but those same kerryn have grown to fear her and her circle of slave knights that form one of the Emperor’s honor guards.

It is perhaps Reika’s many eyes and ears throughout the Empire that led to the failure of the Res’Taringal rebellion, in fact, if one takes time to consider the known facts of the incident.  It is certainly suspicious that all of the personal kerryn slaves of the Res’Taringal’s have been taken into the Order in some capacity or another (or at least, this is assumed to be the truth, for none have been seen since, and none were given to the new regional ruler in any case, though perhaps they are simply undergoing reeducation).  How exactly do I know some of this information which is surely meant to be secret?  Truly a question for the ages, and I shall not be answering here.  It is dangerous enough that I simply write it down in my private journal, but such knowledge should be recorded so that, perhaps, one day it can be shown to the world and the truth known.

#Lore24 – Entry #81 – Fantasy Month #21 – The Kerryn Animal

 

From the journal of Angeliqua “Goldeneyes” Cartacustos:

I’m beginning to sense a theme forming with Mother’s topics…

A fairly common tome found throughout the Empire and likely beyond, there are nonetheless several variations of “The Kerryn Animal” worth mentioning when discussing the text.  Written during the early years of the Empire, most modern scholars attribute authorship of the original text to arcanist, scholar, and slave-trainer Balishar Azarah Ninurta-apal-Ekur.  The original, and later “traditional” versions of the text basically serve as the basis for the Empire’s kerryn enslavement policies and practices.  Though filled with what I would consider highly questionable conclusions about the nature of kerryn anatomy and physiology, the text nonetheless has quite firmly established the idea in the minds of Imperial citizens that kerryns are dangerous if not properly bred into subservience and are naturally quite amorous and inherently sexual creatures.  Descriptions of proper methods of training kerryns for their roles as loyal servants of their “betters” consume most of the text’s pages, many of which are still performed to this day.  Later “traditional” versions of the text have been expanded with descriptions of the established standard training methods all kerryns must undertake within the Empire, focusing on subservience to Imperial citizens in all matters, proper behaviors socially and privately, proper breeding recommendations, and the “Hundred Affectations”, the ways Kerryns are trained to pose themselves so as to show their loyalty, submissiveness, and general attractiveness of body. 

Though your average citizen would hesitate to say such a thing, I have practiced some of the Hundred Affectations at Mother’s insistence and found them to be quite helpful in enhancing my flexibility and agility.  Some of these I practice regularly, in fact, for they are very similar to the dances I have likewise practiced during the development of my dervish-like sword style.

Back to the topic at hand, though.  Later versions of The Kerryn Animal would delve much more deeply into the eroticism of the Kerryn slave experience rather than the mundane and vaguely philosophical topics of the “traditional” versions.  Without giving it too much thought, I can think of no fewer than a dozen variations of the text by just as many authors throughout the centuries who have penned highly erotic tales surrounding the core teachings of the original.  In essence, these “erotic” versions of The Kerryn Animal are highly idealized and meant to not only titillate the reader, but also firmly reinforce the nature of Kerryn enslavement as a perfectly normal aspect of life within the Empire.  Some variations of these are told from the perspective of the slave owner as they train a particularly favored slave or slaves, while others are told from the perspective of the slaves themselves, focusing heavily upon descriptions of the slave training through a first-person viewpoint, most often with them learning to appreciate their masters and worship the very ground they walk upon.  It is rather obvious that some of the passages in these texts were written by slaves themselves, though no such credit was given, of course.

A handful of even more scandalous versions of The Kerryn Animal exist as well, though these are held as quite problematic within the Empire, as they portray situations that would serve to undermine the very foundations of Kerryn enslavement.  Or at least, that is what some particularly vocal and influential individuals have espoused throughout history; as it stands, these texts have yet to cause the collapse of the Empire.  These particular variations flip the roles, envisioning a world where the kerryns are still in control with the aid of their demonic allies, and have enslaved humanity and the other races and have them undergo the same methods of training.  The texts in which a kerryn slave takes on a dominant role and puts their masters through the training they have undergone as part of an erotic roleplay scenario are much less problematic and seem to be quite popular given the number of them in the archives.  Though it’s not something I tend to think about, I have little doubt that this kind of power exchange fantasy is quite common behind closed doors.  Being a mostly silent observer while I’m visiting town or when tending a human master and their kerryn slave who visit the Library, I’ve seen hints of such things from time to time, so if even I can pick up on it, then it can’t be that well-guarded a secret.

 

#Lore24 – Entry #73 – Fantasy Month #13 – Saressh, Fallen Goddess of the Kerryns

 

From the journal of Angeliqua “Goldeneyes” Cartacustos:

Though hard for your average person to comprehend, the idea of something more powerful than a god is rather sobering and indeed frightening, but the example of the fallen Saressh is one that more people should be aware of, were it not for the standing decree by the first Emperor that her name shall not be spoken, lest another calamity be put in motion.  Can dead gods hear their names when spoken by mere mortals?  Do gods truly die when the faith of their followers is lost, or do they simply take on other forms and evolve into other deities?  Does the mere speaking of their name hold power, even if they no longer exist?  I’m hardly a theologian and certainly not a priestess of any sort, but I can still discuss the topic somewhat, from a historical perspective, at least.

Historically speaking, gods and goddesses come and go.  Historical records are replete with examples of such vanished deities, though usually not such recent examples as in the case of Saressh, mother of the Kerryns, goddess of protection, good health and procreation, pleasure, prophecy, and cats.  Most often, we’ve found remnants of lost civilizations and along with them, at best, scattered carvings alluding to the existence of the lost deity, vague hints of their nature, little in the way of daily practices or rituals.  This is especially true in the case of those lesser deities worshipped by the monstrous races, though some conjectures exist that lean toward the idea that the same deities simply take on different names through the ages, given the similar natures and domains shared by many deities we have recorded.

Such is not the case with Saressh, however.  Though mostly seen as a dark goddess who guided her people into demon worship, and was later consumed by said demons, records would, in my opinion, indicate something far more insidious at work behind the scenes.  As the Deep Archives are filled with preserved examples of Saressh’s teachings, priestly paraphernalia, and records of many of her followers, I have had some chance to study her ways, and without dedicating myself to diving deeper, Saressh absolutely does not seem the type to have her children turn to worshipping demonic forces.  Quite the opposite, really.

It is my opinion that Saressh was defamed during the period preceding the Great Cataclysm, when tensions between nations were high and wars were common, likely by agents of the Elvish Dominion, known for their extensive and masterful use of propaganda, lessons the current Empire still makes use of.  The Elvish Dominion was far more powerful than it is today, at least on this side of the world, and had great influence over many of the human-led nations, for humanity still saw them as mostly a benevolent force, wisest amongst the long-lived races of the world.  During this period of great unrest, it came to be that the Aerians were on the verge of extinction through the combined efforts of the Elvish Dominion and the growing human nations, and when things were at their darkest, the Kerryns stepped in as a neutral group, brokering a peace that would give the war-hungry Aerians a chance to recover and try to change their ways; kerryns of the day were certainly optimistic.  This alliance, born of compassion from the Kerryn people, would perhaps ultimately lead to their downfall and the destruction of the Aerians who had dedicated themselves to the defense of the Kerryn people for their act of kindness.

Circling back to the topic of Saressh, it is known that during the years preceding the Great Cataclysm, when the wars had somewhat settled and tensions were beginning to cool, something happened to her faithful clergy.  Madness began to spread throughout their ranks, and the power of their magic began to wane.  Some theorize that Saressh had been slain in the divine realm already, and it simply took time for her death to be felt within the realm of mortals, while other theories indicate that perhaps she was beset on all sides by her enemies, chiefly among them the demonic forces of the Demon Lord Suzu’Reitani, whose power served to corrupt the very flow of power from Saressh to her people, before she was ultimately slain.  Regardless, it was soon after the madness began to spread through her clergy and the faith of her people began to wane that war once again broke out when the Aerians led an offensive against the lost desert nation of Al Sisamanah when they had enslaved a kerryn princess that would eventually marry the Aerian prince who led the campaign (this is entirely a topic unto itself, and I shall not delve into it further here).

It was during this time that demons began to travel more freely between their realm and our own, and the records of other churches of prominence during the era, namely those of Lashanna, goddess of Justice, and the twin goddesses of desire, Erisaya and Yurisaya, and the god of death, Mausolus, confirm this with the sharp increase in reported cases of demonic possession and outright manifestation of them within our world.  Though, curiously enough, records on the subject from the Elvish Dominion are entirely lacking in detail, there is more than enough evidence from other sources during this time to at least create a plausible case that the elves were responsible for allowing demonkind into our world, and simply shifted the blame to the kerryns and the aerians, as they were their primary enemies at time (the might of the Aerians, reinforcing the more peaceful kerryns, with their formidable diplomatic talents, may well have led to a new age of peace, though with the Elvish Dominion in a much smaller and less influential role as nations were slowly but inevitably turned against them as their underhanded methods were repeatedly exposed).  Curiously enough, such conjectures are as forbidden to discuss aloud as that of the topic of Saressh herself; some may call this mere coincidence, but I am not among their ranks.

I could continue for some time further about Saressh and the many topics surrounding her mysterious death (is she even dead?  Perhaps she still exists in some form or another, her power dispersed amongst the demonic forces of Suzu’Reitani?), but my duties must take precedent.  I am to assist General Loukas Kormides with a study of historic battles in the northern regions on the morrow, and have much study and preparation to perform today.

 

#Lore24 – Entry #71 – Fantasy Month #11 – Ruins of Shinsei Daitoshi

 

From the journal of Angeliqua “Goldeneyes” Cartacustos:

 

A rather sad topic today, but such is the nature of history.  Once the capital city of a great Kerryn empire, Shinsei Daitoshi was destroyed following the Demonic Incursion approximately two-thousand years ago, when the sealing of the dimensional breach resulted in a terribly destructive explosion, which in turn triggered the Great Cataclysm that followed, reshaping the very face of Andyllion in the process.  The true history of the city, even its true name, and the kerryn empire that it once served, has been greatly obscured and erased by decree of the first Great Dragon Emperor during the same decree that saw the kerryns themselves perpetually enslaved, lest they be allowed to cause another calamity with their demon-summoning ways.  Or so the official history states.

As a side-note here, I feel that I must note that the Order itself was founded in the century following these decrees and the foundations of the Empire, in an attempt to preserve as much history as possible from those who would seek to bury or destroy it.  Such is the way of tyrants, I suppose.

Back to the topic at hand:  The ruins of Shinsei Daitoshi still remain, however, and lie several weeks travel to the west of Draconis Magna, beyond the Ashenvale and the Broken Spine Peaks, in the region now known as the Demon Blight, a magic-scoured wasteland filled with poisonous plants, deadly creatures, and horrible monstrosities, many of which bear the taint of demons to this day.  For those adventurers brave enough to venture into the region, the city ruins can be found roughly two-days travel beyond the start of the Blight, many of the ancient buildings still standing on the outskirts, but now crumpling ruins and just as likely to house vengeful spirits of the past as a demon-tainted monster hungry for a meal. 

Beyond the outskirts, the ruins become so much rubble, eventually leading to the center of the city, where the Gateway Crater now lies, spanning over a mile in diameter and just as deep by several accounts of those who have been there and returned alive, though later accounts state that it has since, at least partially, filled with toxic water infused with the lingering demonic essence in the area.  The entire region is likewise a wild zone for magical energies, with terrible arcane storms flaring up without warning, and spellcasting of all types becoming unreliable at best, dangerous to its wielders and their allies at worst, as the very magical essences are twisted and corrupted as they are cast, resulting in wild, unexpected outcomes, though most accounts indicate explosive results are the most common. 

And yet, there are always those foolhardy enough to risk venturing into the region and the city center, for there are still treasures to be uncovered, long lost secrets to scour from the destruction, lying buried in the rubble or in the vast underground tombs that were once the very buildings that composed the city.  The Emperor has of course decreed that such ventures are outlawed, but that has done little to stop such activities, as there are many places beyond the empire where such secrets are worth a fortune. 

I must admit that even I have a desire to at least see the ruins of Shinsei Daitoshi for myself, to walk amongst the ancient kerryn buildings and witness the Gateway Crater for myself.  I can only imagine what history has yet to be uncovered there, and perhaps what secrets may be uncovered that the Emperor wishes to remain thus.  I have much training to do yet, and will also admit to having little worldly experience in adventuring, so it is unlikely that I’ll ever venture there, but still, one can dream, though it may be considered a strange and terrible dream.  As a student of history, however, I feel rather obligated to uncover as much of it as possible in the small length of time I have upon this world.

#Lore24 – Entry #67 – Fantasy Month #7 – The Res’Taringal Rebellion

 

From the journal of Angeliqua “Goldeneyes” Cartacustos:

 

A broad topic, conspiracy, but I suppose I should give my thoughts on the most recent, most prominent example of such a thing.  I’m hardly an investigator, and I’m certainly not one for gossip, but there have been dozens passing through town and the library who have spoken of this, and when the Emperor’s officials are putting out decrees about the official version of events that run counter to what has come through whispered tales, then it certainly seems that a conspiracy is afoot.  Or perhaps, was, in this case.

Though the Emperor has decreed that none shall utter the name, for the entirety of the offending house has been…dissolved…and the matter settled, never to be spoken of again, the Library has already recorded many statements on what could be called the “Res’Taringal Rebellion”, several by my own hand.  All is not well within the Empire, it seems, and the fact that a powerful house was able to garner enough support to actually launch a serious rebellion speaks volumes unto itself. 

Though the truest nature of the Res’Taringal Rebellion has already become distorted through Imperial propaganda and faulty memories of those who heard the story second hand (at best), some details can be safely assumed to be true, based on historical precedent:

  • Located within the province of Hadria Augustus (which, due to its geography and available resources, made an excellent place to launch such a rebellion), House Res’Taringal had the clout to offer some opposition to the Emperor.  Well respected within the Senate, established through centuries of dedication to the Empire, trained in both military operations and political intrigues, and keenly aware of the rumblings of discontent, Victor and Vanessa Res’Taringal were perhaps the most suited to such a task.
  • In spite of the various groups supporting them, the Rebellion as a whole remained mostly an underground movement, as none would dare to oppose the Emperor openly, at least not in a way such as this. Disagreements over policy and debate on various topics are expected, but nothing on this scale.  One could rather safely assume that this Rebellion, though well planned, struck before the proper foundations had settled.  Were the Res’Taringals too ambitious, or did other factors force them to move too soon?
  • Fought in the name of Kerryn independence, and with great ambitions for a renewed and stronger, more compassionate Empire, the Rebellion, in my opinion, was doomed to fail from the start. The Emperor and his line have not maintained their grip on power for so long without good reason.  His resources are basically impossible tot match, and he has a firm grip on not only the general populace, but also several outlying powers, most prominently the orcs of the Badaxe clan.  Furthermore, the Res’Taringals failed to stir up the kerryns themselves; though they may have perhaps meant well, the kerryns must want to be free, and until that desire is sparked within them, it simply will not happen.  What would the point be, and how would the kerryns possibly understand how to even live with freedom when they have not done so for over two millennia now?  It will take a unifying figure, I think, from within the kerryn population itself, strong of will and personality, with great power, to break the chains binding their spirits. 

I imagine that it will be some time before another rebellion of this scale is tried, perhaps centuries.  The Res’Taringal name has been stricken from all records, their holdings dissolved amongst the loyal followers of the Emperor, and their line removed from existence, the leaders executed within the capital prisons.  Perhaps Felaria will live to see it, but I suspect I’ll have long been gone by then, the gods willing I live to see a ripe old age.

 

 

LORE24 ENTRY #19 – Kerryn

Category – Cultural

The Kerryn are a race of humanoids who appear similar to humans, but with feline features, most notably feline ears atop their heads, extended canine teeth, cat-like eyes, tails, and in some cases, fingernails that can be used as claws.  They are generally of average height to shorter height, between five and six feet tall, and with agile builds.  Their reflexes and agility are greater than the average human, on par with elves.  They are possessed of more sensitive hearing, better night vision, and a keen sense of smell, and tend to live for several hundred years, making them the second-longest lived race in the known space after the elves (or perhaps the third if one counts the Shokushu-juu, though no one besides themselves are certain how long they actually live).  Generally they are considered friendly and personable, rather easy-going in nature, and are generally seen as quite attractive by most other races.  

In modern times, Kerryns are prevalent throughout the galaxy, most often living amongst the other races, though have claimed some nations and worlds as their own, though they don’t outright refuse other races (though they remain somewhat wary of elves, as do most races).  Kerryns are generally rather free-spirited and are known to wander from time to time in their long lives, sometimes spending a century or so exploring one particular area of interest before deciding to move on and try something new, somewhere new; it is not uncommon that married couples will embark on periods of wandering and exploration once the children are raised and out of the house.  Most Kerryn societies also tend to have a strong sense of independence and a love of freedom, given multiple historical examples of their kind being oppressed by other races, and as such often have a unified defense force on their worlds and within their borders, with all Kerryns spending some time training in basic self-defense and use of weapons while they are young before pursuing their preferred interests.

Unique amongst the races, Kerryns are known to be very close with their past lives, often experiencing flashes of them as they go about their daily lives.  Often, these flashes give them unique insights or knowledge that may not be readily available to others.  These flashes are stronger in some, and the “old souls” experience them with much more frequency and clarity than others.  The Kerryn mother goddess, Sarresh, sees to it that her children are reborn from time to time regardless of their sins in life, giving them another chance to improve themselves.  Perhaps related to their past-life experience, those Kerryns who have dedicated themselves to the service of the goddess are known to receive prophetic visions, though these are often difficult to decipher.