Languish.org

So I just got this game on GOG. For those who don't know, Six Ages (https://sixages.com/) is a spiritual successor to King of Dragon Pass. It takes place many centuries earlier in the timeline and this time you play a clan of horse nomads, traditional enemies of the Orlanthi. The interface and game mechanics are very similar, with a few changes. I have not played this game before, so this AAR will be with no prior knowledge of how things work, although of course I have some ideas from KoDP.

Below are some links to images on the lore of the game (since they are mostly text, I'll just post the links instead of images here).

What the Story Tent Says 1 (https://i.imgur.com/CbDuyN5.jpg)
What the Story Tent Says 2 (https://i.imgur.com/N2jErvZ.jpg)
What the Story Tent Says 3 (https://i.imgur.com/MoMYAlz.jpg)
What the Story Tent Says 4 (https://i.imgur.com/wgldzD8.jpg)
Riders (https://i.imgur.com/BANZVGp.jpg)
Wheels, Rams, and Other Foreigners (https://i.imgur.com/z86PuSR.jpg)
Calendar (https://i.imgur.com/1n9DuHc.jpg)
The World (https://i.imgur.com/CeE8edL.jpg)
Runes (https://i.imgur.com/PosMgLX.jpg)
Deities (https://i.imgur.com/BhOom7X.jpg)

:yeah: Looking forward to this. Haven't had time to play it yet, so I've just kept it on my Steam wishlist, but I very much like what I see.

Our first order of business is deciding the background of our clan.

(https://i.imgur.com/5TlErhD.jpg)

First, we must decide which deity we favored back in the Golden Age. Let's go with Nyalda, because we are different and who doesn't like more food and cows?

(https://i.imgur.com/ULZ2gG7.jpg)

The Golden Age ended, and we needed to support one of the gods. We supported Pela in the Grain Contest, so that our clan is good at growing food. That's always a good thing.

(https://i.imgur.com/MIhCEw7.jpg)

Next came the cataclysms. I went with something that hopefully won't immediately murder my clan. Our ancestors will expect us to fight anything water-related.

(https://i.imgur.com/STUXJSW.jpg)

Hyalor is our main ancestor hero and later god, he founded our culture. Nivorah is the great city where our ancestors originally lived.

(https://i.imgur.com/7HXdsON.jpg)

The cataclysms continued and we had to leave Nivorah. We took one of our gods with us - Narva, goddess of brewing. Because who doesn't love some beer and kumis!

(https://i.imgur.com/MByO58k.jpg)

Our particular clan became known for having the best magicians. This should hopefully help us conduct rituals and give various boosts.

(https://i.imgur.com/1QMceXn.jpg)

We crossed the mountains and arrived in a new land, where we took in local hunters and gatherers as full members of the clan. Slavery is no longer our way, and we figured these people knew the local lands and could be of great value to the clan. They taught us about Dostal, the god of hunters.

(https://i.imgur.com/JphR4Ek.jpg)

We migrated once more, and took some lands along the bank of a river. We figured that there was no need to make life too difficult for us yet, so hopefully we will have time to adapt and prosper.

Our advisors said that the we should be called the Swift Mare clan. This seemed like a fine name, and so it was decided.

Uh oh. Don't let Brain see this thread.

 :lol:

Quote from: Habbaku on October 18, 2019, 04:08:02 PM
Uh oh. Don't let Brain see this thread.

Will he: ride like the wind?

It is the Sacred Time, as the fourth year of Orala's chieftainship is ending. It is time to allocate our clan magic for the coming year. We have plenty of magic for now, but that will not last, as we will certainly not be able to collect so much during the year.

(https://i.imgur.com/cibq7hJ.jpg)

We allocate 2 to Fields, so as to grow as much food as possible. Our clan does not start with sufficient land or ability to grow enough food for the year, so we will either have to use stockpiles (which are finite), clear more arable land, or use rituals to improve our yield. So everything helps.

Exploring is often helpful to find useful things, so we spend 1 on that.

Pastures also get some help so that we can maintain our herds.

We put 1 in Ritual in order to make discovering new blessings and mysteries easier.

1 goes in War, just in case we have to engage in battle this year. Magic spent here is more efficient than spending it before each separate battle.

Finally, 1 goes in Wilds, to help our hunters and gatherers find more food.

This should hopefully get us through the first year.

Before we go further, let's look in more detail at our own clan as well as what we know about the surrounding world.

(https://i.imgur.com/rT6T4kU.jpg)

The Swift Mare Clan has 657 people, all but one fit and healthy. Since we only recently arrived in these lands, we have not yet finished all the houses for everyone, and not enough fields and pastures have been cleared. Those concerns will need to be addressed as soon as possible. To do so, nobles can lead ventures, but only one venture can be performed in a year. We will look at them a bit later.

Now, let's have a look at our clan ring. Ideally, we want both men and women on the ring, with each of the seven members representing each of the seven families, as well as seven different deities. And, of course, having excellent skills in various areas. [Note: I took the screenshots at the beginning of my second year, so actually these guys are a year younger at this point.]

(https://i.imgur.com/oTdhFzN.jpg)

Our clan chief is Orala. She's actually not that amazing skills-wise, though her Leadership is reasonably good. She's also quite young and has time to improve. She represents the Akot family and worships Nyalda, the Earth Mother. She is starting her fifth year as clan chief.

(https://i.imgur.com/uc7kMYi.jpg)

Next is Jereno, our loremaster and law expert. His Lore skill is excellent, although there are a couple of older nobles who are even better. He represents the Dasano family and worships Relandar, the god of learning. He's also quite young, though if you ask me, he looks more 73 than 33!

(https://i.imgur.com/vOjGimo.jpg)

Next is Bandars, our warleader. He's great at fighting and leading warriors, though he's getting old. He represents the Erkent family and worships Elmal, the sun god and chief of our pantheon together with Nyalda.

(https://i.imgur.com/13t1tIB.jpg)

Then we have Bardalor, who is a shaman of Raven, a trickster spirit who is a companion of our ancestor god Hyalor. Spirits are fickle and a Raven shaman could be very helpful or very unhelpful [much like Eurmal's tricksters in KoDP]. Bardalor is also excellent at working with all kinds of animals and plants. She represents the Karent family.

(https://i.imgur.com/tL41qdn.jpg)

Next is Maryu, our clan magician. She represents the Nordon family and worships Erissa, the pacifist goddess of healing.

(https://i.imgur.com/cugVGs4.jpg)

Next is Eleen, our trader. She's actually not the best in the clan at bargaining, but she's also fairly young and has time to improve. She represents the Parnt family and worships Ekarna, goddess of trade.

(https://i.imgur.com/pWphzwz.jpg)

Finally, we have Elindrai, who is not actually that great at anything and is mostly there because she represents the seventh family, Zarent. She also worships Nyalda the Earth Mother.

For now, we decide to keep the clan ring as it is. All seven families are represented and we have most of the skills covered except for Diplomacy. We also have two Nyalda worshippers on the ring. If we decide to reorganize the ring later on, Elindrai is the main candidate for replacement, as she does not really bring anything important.

(https://i.imgur.com/xjKy0hJ.jpg)

Besides the clan ring, we have a couple of other important nobles to look at. The first one is Churka, a follower of the warrior goddess Osara. Churka is pretty amazing at fighting, leading, and magic. No doubt she will be invaluable in many circumstances.

(https://i.imgur.com/fMzIf5q.jpg)

And we also have Barzden, who is an older worshipper of Elmal who is really good at pretty much everything. He should also be able to help us in many ways.

(https://i.imgur.com/QQ3Rr5x.jpg)

Here is the map of the valley we share with other clans. Our clan is right in the middle, on the banks of the Black Eel River which flows into the larger Oslira River further east. To the north are forests and the Imther Mountains. We don't know a lot of the world beyond that. Note that the major rivers are not easy to cross until we have the proper divine blessings, so this will affect our exploration.

A brief overview of the other clans in the valley, including both horse clans like ours, and wheel clans whose nobles drive chariots.

Ar-Tarima (wheels): Known for being the last clan to leave Nivorah. We owe them a favor.
Blue Crest (horse): Known for following the Pure Horse practices. Their chief is Urnoste. They mock us. They owe us a favor. They keep slaves.
Brighteyes (horse): Known for their large herds. Their chief is Enardivus. They hate us. They don't sell slaves.
Brilliant Hoof (horse): Known for erratic chieftains. They owe us a favor.
Char-Orisa (wheels): Known for their close descent from Elmal. Their chief is Monok. We owe them a favor. They keep slaves.
Flame Singer (horse): Known for their aggressive pursuit of trade. Their chief is Chukorde. They owe us a favor. They sell slaves but don't keep them.
Flint Heart (horse): Known for their fondness for exploring. We owe them a favor.
Gryphon (horse): Known for their many shamans. Their chief is Incharnus. They don't sell slaves.
Jade Colt (horse): Known for hunting prowess. Their chief is Hyarnan. They sell slaves but don't keep them.
Ku-Rander (wheels): Known for unusual beadwork. They owe us a favor.
Mor-Kagin (wheels): Known for being extraordinarily haughty.
Old Eagle (horse): Known for their reliance on raiding. They owe us a favor. They sell slaves but don't keep them.
Paral-Un (wheels): Known for their hawks.
Shining Blossom (horse): Known for avoiding conflict. Their chief is Zaksoro. They fear us. We owe them a favor. They don't sell slaves.
Yellowhill (horse): Known for their poverty. Their chief is Veris. They don't sell slaves.

Also there's apparently some clan called Jernelthi living across the river to the south, but we don't know anything about them.

So to summarize, our closest neighbors are the Old Eagles who like raiding, which is not good. We have reasonably good relations with them, however, so maybe they'll pick some other targets. On the other hand, our neighbors the Shining Blossom are peaceful and afraid of us, and so may prove good raiding targets for our own warriors.

Coming next: Orala's fifth year and the first one we live in this new land!

Quote from: Solmyr on October 18, 2019, 04:21:21 PM

Quote from: Habbaku on October 18, 2019, 04:08:02 PM
Uh oh. Don't let Brain see this thread.

Will he: ride like the wind?

Something's getting broken in, at least.

Orala's Year 5

Our first order of business is to improve the food situation. One of our nobles, Henedra, led the people in clearing land for new fields.

(https://i.imgur.com/oYmG9t9.jpg)

Later in the Sea Season, a huge flock of ravens appeared on our lands. Bardalor was of course very excited, saying it was a blessing from Raven. We agreed to let her lead a ritual to trick the Brighteyes, who currently hate us, into thinking better of us. They have large herds and it seems like they'd be more useful as friends than enemies. Bardalor said that the ritual was a success and we started on the road of reconciliation with the Brighteyes.

(https://i.imgur.com/aRcHf6f.jpg)

On the recommendation of Bandars, we built a watchtower to help spot coming raids. We also had him raise four new warriors from the ranks of our clan. While most clan members fight with bows, those who are more skilled use swords and fight as well as five bowmen.

Also in late Sea Season, the clan ring heard that some of our people are those of our neighbors the Gryphons are growing closer. This could herald closer relations between our clans in general. However, the clan decided not to take action for now, as being too open could be seen as a weakness. We will wait for now, but keep the Gryphons in mind as potential friends.

(https://i.imgur.com/pmPAp2t.jpg)

As the Fire Season began, the clan prepares for raiding. But first, we had some strange visitors. The Yeleni, or Buzzard People, come asking for one of our young priestesses of Pela to marry into their clan. There could be a candidate, but the clan ring decided that this marriage would bring no major benefit to the Swift Mares, and so we politely declined.

(https://i.imgur.com/C4KrWpL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/q0uarK7.jpg)

Fire Season is underway, so it is time to raid. We decided to start off small, and launch a simple cattle raid against our fearful neighbors, the Shining Blossoms. Nine swordsmen and six bowmen went on the raid, sneaking around the Shining Blossom patrols and making off with 33 cows! A very successul cattle raid indeed.

Earth Season came and it is time to reap the harvest. Under the leadership of Barzden, we conducted a ritual sacrifice to Pela, to bless our barley crop. The benevolent goddess chose to accept our sacrifice, making our crop plentiful.

(https://i.imgur.com/qJ6rHJv.jpg)

Earth Season also brings with it a very strange event. Apparently some of the threads in our Story Tent have been possessed by an ancestor ghost, who is now wandering about. We first tried asking him for a story, but he could not remember any. Then we tried to coax him back into the tent wall, but he refused to go, until other ancestor spirits had to wake up and pull him back. The whole event soured the clan's mood somewhat and cost us a lot of magic. Thanks, ancestor ghost.

(https://i.imgur.com/E9KgTw1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rM5fi3e.jpg)

With the harvest collected, our Raven shaman and food expert Bardalor reported that the food situation is good. We will produce as much food as we will eat in the coming year. The clearing of fields and blessings of Pela obviously had an effect.

Late in the season we also dispatched Barzden to the Brighteyes clan to try and repair our relations. He took with him 10 cows worth of gifts. His negotiating skills proved excellent and the Brighteyes no longer hate us. A good deal for just 10 goods, if you ask me. Barzden is proving to be useful in many areas, just as we thought.

(https://i.imgur.com/iZBeiv6.jpg)

In the middle of Dark Season, we received alarming news about a force of trolls marching close to our lands. We could attack them, but Dark Season is bad for us and good for the trolls. And the Shining Blossoms are known for avoiding conflict, so it is doubtful they'd help us with this. We decided to wait and hope they just go elsewhere, but the trolls had other ideas and rushed towards our lands. We hastily mustered some warriors to defend against them. With some help from Elmal, we drove them off, though with a few casualties. This could have gone much worse.

(https://i.imgur.com/Yg9UjD0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5fCY2no.jpg)

After the troll attack, we decided we need even more swordsmen. Bandars chose four new ones from the ranks of our clan.

As the Storm Season arrived, we decided we need to know more about the land we live in. Churka took a few men and explored some of our clan's lands. She found a valley with plenty of ivory tusks and teeth, which will surely bring our craftsmen joy.

(https://i.imgur.com/WDsNMeD.jpg)

Later in Storm Season, we had another odd event. A large elk came up to our hunters and spoke to them, asking them to forgo game hunting for two years and promising plentiful game after that. We decided not to tempt fate too much, and agreed to the elk's terms. Our hunters will cease hunting for a while, so we will need other sources of food, but hopefully this will pay off later on.

(https://i.imgur.com/9X1Ufoy.jpg)

Late in the season, we had Leshena conduct a ritual sacrifice to the Inila, goddess of foraging. We learned the mysteries of the Find ritual, which, surprisingly, will help us find hidden things.

Maryu also started complaining about our food situation, even though earlier Bardalor thought we were fine. I guess stopping game hunting might have some effect.

(https://i.imgur.com/dHHdmrU.jpg)

Sacred Time is here again! We've had a reasonably good year, though our magic is lower this time. We put 2 in Fields so as to help the food situation, especially with the lack of hunting now. 1 goes in Rituals because we should be doing more of those. Our priests also foretold good fortune for our raids, so we'll definitely be doing that next Fire Season. Therefore, 1 goes to War to help with that.

(https://i.imgur.com/xlyLNjE.jpg)

Next up: raiding, evil spirits, and crappy trade deals.

This is lovely. :)

BAIL OUT.

Orala's Year 6

As the year begins, Churka reports that the Brilliant Hoof Clan has recruited some warriors from the east. They are far away from us though, so it shouldn't be a concern yet.

(https://i.imgur.com/kxxizsU.jpg)

To start off on our food situation, we sent Doren along with an escort to forage for food in the northern forest. We also had Henedra lead the clan folk in clearing more land for pastures. Doren returned near the end of Sea Season with plenty of foraged food.

(https://i.imgur.com/1JGPo3o.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HrcBxgk.jpg)

Our shamans found evil spirits on our land. They wished to acquire new items for their ritual garb, in case they came back. We said that after they acquired the needed items they should hunt evil spirits. Barzden found that the shamans of the Shining Blossom clan had the items they needed. He traded for them, but it was not the best deal. Upon their return, Barzden assembled a party of shamans to scour our lands for evil spirits. Barzden sensed their presence, but they fled upon seeing the new adornments he had acquired. They would not be back for a good while.

(https://i.imgur.com/oGALnsi.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Tub8BB1.jpg)

It's Fire Season, so time to raid! We pick the Shining Blossoms as our targets again, because surely trading and fighting can be done with the same clan. We bring 12 swords and 110 bows on the raid, led by Bandars. The battle system in this game differs from KoDP as now you fight the battle in multiple rounds, choosing what to do in each one, with different possibilities depending on whether you or the other clan fear, hate, or mock each other. You can even parley and demand or pay tribute to avoid battle altogether.

The raid begins quite well, as we elude the Shining Blossom patrols and face a smaller force. We decide to concentrate on plundering, as that's what we are here for.

(https://i.imgur.com/k45PuSK.jpg)

Our first choice is to charge right onto battle! Hopefully the magic we spent on war during Sacred Time will help us.

(https://i.imgur.com/aZtAxEK.jpg)

As we prepare, the Shining Blossoms send out a herald. However, he has nothing but taunt for us. We taunt them back, and it seems to shake their morale.

(https://i.imgur.com/Tv1OBKi.jpg)

We charge forward through a hail of arrows and then press the attack. The Shining Blossoms fight defensively, conserving their strength.

(https://i.imgur.com/VRnNHoB.jpg)

As the battle continues, we encounter an enemy warrior with divine blessings from Elmal. Bandars orders to shoot him with arrows, which was perhaps not the wisest decision in hindsight.

(https://i.imgur.com/nbekl9r.jpg)

We continue to press the attack, and eventually manage to win, despite things looking a bit dangerous earlier.

(https://i.imgur.com/iHBWpIQ.jpg)

Finally we were victorious, with no deaths on our side and some on theirs. We took some plunder, though perhaps not an amazing amount. I suspect the favor of the gods for raiding helped us here, as thing looked like they could have turned out much worse.

(https://i.imgur.com/gEcoGHB.jpg)

For our second raid of the season, we took a smaller force and went cow raiding into the lands of Ar-Tarimae. We were successful and stole 21 cows from them.

(https://i.imgur.com/4pjgmCW.jpg)

Some traders arrived from the Old Eagle Clan, asking for an exclusive deal to buy our beer. Our trade goods situation is bad, so an immediate payment would be useful, but we could make more over the period of seven years. Bolda decided to negotiate. However, her negotiating skills, though high, were apparently not enough and she actually got less than the original offer. Well, that's the last time you are negotiating such deals, Bolda.

(https://i.imgur.com/wahZNIJ.jpg)

Herders found an object that might have been ornamentation that fell off Samnal's chariot, or perhaps a seed from a celestial plant. We sacrificed it to Busenari, to help our cattle.

(https://i.imgur.com/5qyNagl.jpg)

Apparently hearing of our amazing negotiation skills, traders from the Jade Colt Clan arrived, asking to purchase the ivory we discovered last year. This time, Bolda was not allowed to make a counter-offer, and we firmly said no.

(https://i.imgur.com/vDyCE22.jpg)

We sent Barzden with gifts to the Ar-Tarimae. We gave them 10 gifts to make them like us more, which is a net win since we stole 21 cows from them earlier this year. Also, it is good to send emissaries to all the Wheels clans, so that we can be better at diplomacy.

(https://i.imgur.com/WVR3Xqg.jpg)

Maryu led several ritual sacrifices to the goddess Erissa. Since Erissa doesn't like cow sacrifices as much, we had to sacrifice our already meager goods. We were hoping for the Curing blessing to heal our sick, but of course Erissa decided that we needed Healing and Hope blessings first, and only then chose to reveal the mysteries of Curing.

Cows, separated from their owners by mischief spirits, wandered onto our lands. We kept them. Hey, who doesn't like free cows?

(https://i.imgur.com/Kpke0bh.jpg)

A lingering legal dispute between the Zarent and Parnt families brought discord to the clan. We kept the clan circle out of this. Let them sort it out themselves.

(https://i.imgur.com/3x1RWAK.jpg)

Come Storm Season, we sent Barzden with gifts to the Char-Orisae. We have plenty of cows but few goods, so we sent cows this time. Another Wheels clan hopefully likes us more now.

(https://i.imgur.com/URJn2wr.jpg)

Both the Dasano and Parnt families wanted to adopt a baby they had found floating down the Black Eel River. Orala adopted the baby into her family, naming him Insinor. People complained that Orala was taking advantage of her position as chief, hoping the baby's luck would rub off on her.

(https://i.imgur.com/jHbISQ3.jpg)

We sent Churka to explore our own clan lands some more. She found some neatly sorted piles of bones, but nobody could figure out what this means.

(https://i.imgur.com/srJe0ya.jpg)

It is Sacred Time! Our herds have grown nicely, but goods are still low. Our seers say that the market will be profitable this year, so we put 1 in Crafts to help with crafting and trade. Other magic goes into Fields, Pastures, Ritual, and War, as usual. We also have some extra magic this year thanks to Raven's intervention.

(https://i.imgur.com/wYY1g0C.jpg)

Orala's Year 7

It seems that actually we get extra magic every year because we have a Raven shaman on the clan ring. Of course, this may cause some problems as well. So far, Bardalor has not done anything too upsetting... Also, Barzden told us a rather weird story he heard.

(https://i.imgur.com/jJdlCBn.jpg)

Anyway, on to trading! We sent Bolda to our neighbors the Gryphon Clan. Bolda convinced the Gryphon clan to create a new trading route, and we made a profit of 7 goods. Bolda's negotiating skills seem to be back in shape.

(https://i.imgur.com/FB4PAaR.jpg)

Our kiln stopped firing properly, displeased by what it said was our bullheadedness. Our shamans spoke soothing words to it. The shamans said they had successfully propitiated the kiln. It would now go back to firing as it should. Damn kiln spirits.

(https://i.imgur.com/lNHWGEl.jpg)

The last urgent task we have is finishing the houses for our people. Henedra began this venture. All seven families worked on each other's houses for many weeks. When it was done, people celebrated with a special batch of beer. Never pass up an opportunity to drink beer, I say.

(https://i.imgur.com/mkJHGky.jpg)

Fire Season came and it's raiding time! First, we sent a cattle raid to our fearful neighbors, the Shining Blossoms. We were successful and stole 20 cows from them. The second raid we made was against the Blue Crests, who are the clan that mocks us. We stole four horses from the Blue Crests, which is better than nothing I guess. Let's see them mock us now. And of course, our clan's mood is rising with every successful raid.

One of our foragers found a magical clay mask. After some deliberation by the clan ring, we kept it for our use. A magical treasure is always nice!

(https://i.imgur.com/cJX1BoI.jpg)

Jereno spoke about the Rams living on the other side of Black Eel River. We still don't know much about them, except that they worship Orlanth, slayer of our original god Yelm. We'll need to watch for those barbarians, and learn to tame the river in time.

(https://i.imgur.com/yFTzyOq.jpg)

To help with our trade, we sacrificed to the trade goddess Ekarna, who revealed the Trade blessing. More trade! Also, Maryu was worried about our food situation, saying that we may not have enough next year. We'll have to do something about that again.

Our herders reported seeing disturbing, indistinct figures in our scrublands. It seems we have Slender Man visiting us. We called on Elmal, bright guardian god, for protection, sacrificing 15 cows (because our trade goods are a tad low). Returning dizzy from the story tent, the priests said their prayers had been answered, and that the danger had already passed. Let's hope so.

(https://i.imgur.com/QXBy1s4.jpg)

We sent Bolda to the Old Eagle Clan, the guys who like raiding, in hopes of establishing permanent trade (and make them raid someone else). Bolda was on top of her game again and convinced the Old Eagle clan to create a new trading route, also making a profit of 6 goods.

It's Dark Season, so there's not a lot to do outside the clan. To help with our food production more permanently, we decided to build a shrine to the goddess Pela, so that her barley blessing will help us continuously.

The Gryphons wanted our help fighting bandits. We are friendly with the Gryphons and bandits could threaten our trade as well, so we said we would help. Churka took some warriors and went to help the Gryphons, but could not find the bandits. The Gryphons grew testy, saying we did not know what we were doing. But that could not be helped. What did they expect? It's Dark Season, so it's not like it's easy to go tromping around the wilderness.

(https://i.imgur.com/rwNIU4q.jpg)

Later in Dark Season, we constructed a ditch to help with defense of our lands. Once the Storm Season arrived, we also sent Churka along with some warriors to explore lands to the north, in the forests beyond the Gryphon lands. We also sacrificed to Ekarna to learn the Silvertongue blessing.

Eleen returned from her unauthorized exploration to seek a sacrifice to a previously unknown god called Uldak. We allowed the rite. After Eleen performed the sacrifice, Nyalda appeared to her to warn against Uldak, a rebel god banished by the first Earth Mother, Oria. We had lost our sacrifice, but at least we had not been afflicted by his dread presence.

(https://i.imgur.com/K7otnNm.jpg)

Sacred Time arrived and we took stock of the previous year. We have fewer people and livestock, but at least we have a better market. And the coming year is going to be profitable for trade again, according to our seers. We'll put magic in the usual things, including Diplomacy. Maybe we can set up some alliances this year in addition to new trade routes.

(https://i.imgur.com/rz0u90M.jpg)

Orala's Year 8

Churka returned from her exploration mission to the north, but did not find anything interesting.

(https://i.imgur.com/gil3UUK.jpg)

Barzden tells us another odd rumor.

(https://i.imgur.com/ncDKj5I.jpg)

Doren said we now have plenty of game in the forests, so we were right to listen to the talking elk two years ago.

(https://i.imgur.com/ssGAmkb.jpg)

Our next venture is to improve the clan hall. We are low on goods, so we cannot decorate, and we thought that the consecration should wait until everything else is done, so the first thing was to arrange an inaugural feast to celebrate. It seemed to go well.

(https://i.imgur.com/V4ZX8GR.jpg)

A quick look at our economic situation. It's pretty good, we've started on trade routes, and our herds and hunting game are plentiful. Our crafters are still upset that we are trading away our beer, and bandits are starting to become a threat. We'll have to address that. We sacrificed to Ekarna for the Silvertongue blessing to help our traders and negotiators in the coming year.

(https://i.imgur.com/mpitgYL.jpg)

Birds interfered with shamanic initiation by posing as spirits. We sent one of our traders, Derenei, who told them to behave. The birds trilled merrily and flew away, apparently indifferent.

(https://i.imgur.com/btMiEfi.jpg)

Our raiding season began when we stole 30 cows from the Shining Blossoms. Meanwhile, Bolda convinced the Yellowhill clan to create a new trading route and made a profit of 4 goods.

Emboldened, we raided the Shining Blossoms. That one did not go well at all. Barzden injured an enemy noble, but then was surrounded by enemy Bows, who killed him. Bye bye our best noble. We were driven off and had no opportunity to gain loot.

(https://i.imgur.com/eaKAVHs.jpg)

To top it all, the Paral-Uni raided us for 14 cows while we were raiding.

The Char-Orisae called in a favor, requesting four horses. We gave them what they asked.

(https://i.imgur.com/Re2xvFS.jpg)

Bolda convinced the Char-Orisa clan to create a new trading route. At least we are doing well on the economic front.

Kondon sought alliance with the Gryphons. They agreed that we should join forces against the valley's many dangers, and became our allies. Yay, our first allies, for a total of 20 goods.

(https://i.imgur.com/8VzlgO0.jpg)

Trolls ate our yarm tree. We asked the Brilliant Hoofs for a cutting. They said yes, of course. The real question was whether they would keep this embarrassing turn of events to themselves. With a twinkle in their eyes, their diplomats said they would. But we had to understand that they were repaying us a favor. Because this was such a good story that anyone would ache to share it come feasting time.

(https://i.imgur.com/4sVR89C.jpg)

We sacrificed to Relandar, learning his Advice blessing. This can make the clan ring wiser. Also to help with our food, Maryu bargained with the Sow Spirit, persuading it to help the clan in the coming years.

(https://i.imgur.com/gpGtQEg.jpg)

The star seers had an opportunity to observe for certain portents. Looking for unusual events, they said Raven would visit.

(https://i.imgur.com/rxysFty.jpg)

People, led by chieftain Orala herself, complained that we should be doing more to survive as the world changed. The council promised we would explore our new surroundings.

(https://i.imgur.com/VeQIVBp.jpg)

When ravens nested on our spirit rocks, shamans said it would be a good time for a Raven Festival. We sent hunters to seize a captive from the Shining Blossom clan. Churka captured a Shining Blossom herder and brought him back to become the subject of the Raven festival. The revels brought cheer to the people, especially when we removed the fingers from the captive's right hand. These we threw them to the gathered ravens, who flew off with them. Gruesome, but hey, who are we to go against tradition?

(https://i.imgur.com/yDeylpL.jpg)

Bolda convinced the Jade Colt clan to create a new trading route. We now have plenty of trade.

It's Sacred Time again. Despite some setbacks, we are in a fairly good shape, although I'm peeved about losing Barzden. We allocated some extra magic to Ritual, in case we want to perform something more advanced.

(https://i.imgur.com/MHjIh2M.jpg)

Next up: various disasters strike.

Orala's Year 9

Orala reported a strange vision that all clan ring members received.

(https://i.imgur.com/9hrP8kW.jpg)

Children of our clan were found performing fire magic, mightier than that of experienced priests. We asked the Gryphon clan to take them in and train them. They would not take the children in.

(https://i.imgur.com/9uNjVU3.jpg)

We finished the decorations in the clan hall. Bolda managed to get it done a bit cheaper than expected.

(https://i.imgur.com/yYlc8eD.jpg)

Bardalor captured and tormented a charioteer of the Char-Orisa clan. We granted the charioteer a swift and merciful death. Unless they saw fit to perform a divination, which was never without cost, the Char-Orisae would never know what had happened to their vanished kinsman. Well, shit, Bardalor. You are certainly sadistic, it would seem. Also, apparently you are a man and not a woman as I thought.

(https://i.imgur.com/Ne19EDA.jpg)

It was time to tame the Black Eel River so that we can cross it safely. Here is the myth that we know:

(https://i.imgur.com/Xs8Hekk.jpg)

To do this, we must choose one clan member to enter the Gods War and reenact the myth. We decided that Churka will be the best candidate, as she can both fight and negotiate quite well. Luckily, the ritual went well and the river was tamed.

(https://i.imgur.com/V6JlgFT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/p2XGugl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7W2fkm7.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HZGtK38.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/VRwhjfy.jpg)

Emboldened by success, we sent Churka to explore across the river to the south. She found a magical rock which turned out to be connected to Chaos. It must have hurt our fortune badly, as things began to go downhill soon...

(https://i.imgur.com/fxKElGo.jpg)

Fire Season began with a cattle raid, as we stole 21 cows from the Shining Blossoms. We also sent Bolda to explore the clan lands. Outlaws attacked our exploration party in the clan lands. Bolda blustered and shouted at the outlaws, but they just laughed. Bolda tried to avoid the fight and save the group, but the outlaws attacked anyway, wounding several of our party.

(https://i.imgur.com/dCu39EL.jpg)

Our trade route with the Char-Orisae could no longer be sustained by the market and closed down.

Then the real disaster struck. The Dwarves raided us. Somehow they slipped past our patrols and we had to face them with a smaller force.

(https://i.imgur.com/ui3Jt1p.jpg)

We used some magic to help and began skirmishing, but they rushed us quickly. We tried to hold our ground, but their fierce fighting forced us back. Our defense could not withstand their risky attacks. We were driven from the battlefield and plundered. Our losses were 22 dead and 24 wounded.

(https://i.imgur.com/Q06YgiW.jpg)

Soon after, warriors of the Old Eagle clan made a whooping run against us. We sent warriors to whoop at them in return. They rushed us, and our warriors fell back. Bandars's urgings could not overcome their fear. Old Eagle laughter scorched our ears. Oh, the shame! Old Eagles are, by the way, the guys who are our neighbors and really like raiding.

(https://i.imgur.com/uRSJgHj.jpg)

We hastily conducted a sacrifice to Erissa to ask for healing. This is made more difficult because we are really short on trade goods, and sacrificing cows to a pacifist goddess is probably not a good idea. Nonetheless, 22 wounded people were healed. Bandars complained that we haven't had good fortune in battle lately, and should learn Elmal's battle blessings. Yeah, if only we had the time and resources for that...

The fire magic children made more trouble, setting a tent ablaze. The circle urged patience from the people. Orala's eloquence won them over, quelling fearful hearts. Let's hope these guys turn out to be amazing superheroes.

(https://i.imgur.com/LH76Fiz.jpg)

We built a shrine to Ekarna to expand our trade, and Bolda convinced the Char-Orisa clan to create a trading route again. Hopefully our economy will recover somewhat. Meanwhile, Bandars recruited some new warriors.

This Fire Season turned out to be holy hell. Since we appeared so weak, the Old Eagles raided us. We were slightly outnumbered, even though luckily this time we got all our riders to respond. We tried to maneuver into a better position, but failed and were forced to attack uphill.

(https://i.imgur.com/cyHTuRv.jpg)

The Old Eagle clan hero, Fenarom, charged us, horse wreathed in divine flame. Churka met Fenarom's charge head-on. Churka and Fenarom traded terrible blows. When it was all over, it was Churka fell from horseback, wounded. We groaned in disbelief. Well, at least Churka wasn't killed, that would have been the cherry on top of the raiding cake. We were driven from the battlefield and looted. But even worse, our losses were horrifying, with 46 dead and 60 wounded.

(https://i.imgur.com/1RSV20g.jpg)

If you think that was it, of course not. River monsters attacked us. We raided the Weeders, who were known to deal with river monsters, and water creatures are our ancestral enemies. They fled from our advance. None of our warriors were hurt. We gained five cows worth of goods, mostly clay pots and polished shell jewelry. Our shamans said it would be a while until they dared loose river monsters against us. By striking against water worshipers, our priests said we had attracted the favor of our ancestors, who would aid our actions for a while. Well, first notable success of the year, not much loot but at least no losses. After leading the raid, Bandars raised another 4 new warriors.

(https://i.imgur.com/uPt8oYr.jpg)

In the Storm Season, the Shining Blossoms raided us. Apparently their fear of us didn't stop them from attacking. They also slipped past our patrols, and we had to face their 114 riders with our 46. First we skirmished, but they rushed us quickly. Both sides fought cautiously, and they seemed to gain the upper hand. Then Bandars decided to go all in and ordered a furious berserk attack, which started to drive them back, evoking their fear of us. Our fierce fighting finally managed to break their morale. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and were happy to have survived the battle. We lost only 2 dead and 1 wounded, while they lost a bit more, but the battle was much less bloody than the ones during Fire Season.

(https://i.imgur.com/eAnOFNF.jpg)

It's Sacred Time, and we take stock of our situation. The clan lost many people this year, and many more are still wounded. Our clan magic is also low, and in fact this time Raven actually decided to take some away. So his patronage is a two-edged sword. We lost cattle and horses as well, and our goods are low, which will make healing people difficult. The oracles predicted an unusual number of rats and vermin this year, so we put magic in Fields to get some help with food, as well as in Rituals to help with healing people and War to defend against more raids.

(https://i.imgur.com/QQpXQYj.jpg)

Next up: Even more dying and treasure.

I am really liking this AAR

I may well die horribly in this AAR, by the way, since I'm not looking at any spoilers or best strategies. At least my battles so far have gone more badly than not. :lol:

Orala's Year 10

Bolda reported that the Yellowhill clan continued its slide into poverty and recommended giving them a gift. I don't think we can afford that.

Maryu continued to lead rituals to heal our wounded. 22 more people were healed by Erissa's blessing.

Churka led an exploration of our clan lands. We found some mischievous pixies, which did no real harm but on the other hand improved our clan mood.

(https://i.imgur.com/0qITm4o.jpg)

Flint Heart emissaries wanted to know the story of Nyalda's Bride Price. We shared it with them. They departed, pleased.

(https://i.imgur.com/iFGB2QZ.jpg)

Fire Season began. We raided the Shining Blossoms, together with our allies the Gryphons. We brought 15 swords and 96 bows, and the Gryphons sent 20 warriors. Slipping around Shining Blossom patrols, we attacked, facing 9 swords and 108 bows. The Shining Blossoms sent out a herald, who taunted us, and we responded to their taunts with our own. They could not provoke us. First we attacked in a berserk fashion, but could not break through their defense. One of our nobles, Targarung, slew an enemy noble and was surrounded by enemy Bows. Targarung tried to ride through them, but they made him food for arrows. Our side gasped in fear. Nonetheless, we pressed the attack and finally defeated them. We drove the Shining Blossoms from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands. Sadly, our losses were greater than theirs, and we lost a skilled noble as well.

(https://i.imgur.com/opaNcmZ.jpg)

While we were out raiding, the Char-Orisae raided us for 15 cows. Bastards.

We were raided by the Blue Crests. They offered to parley before the battle. They boasted at us, and we did the same in return. They came out ahead in this battle of words. Endarei saw Bandars sustain a life-threatening injury. Endarei rode with armed escort to Bandars's side. They shot at her escort. The escort pulled her back, before she could suffer harm. Four of them were wounded. Luckily, Bandars survived. However, with the loss of our war leader, we were driven from the battlefield and looted. And now we have even more wounded. Great.

(https://i.imgur.com/FkIgnwf.jpg)

Dwarves came to trade for our cows. We asked for a treasure. We gained a treasure called the Stone of Mostal, which will increase our wealth when our people resist change. Don't know if it was a good deal, but here we are.

(https://i.imgur.com/QIN47Gz.jpg)

Rather oddly, the Blue Crests, same ones who just raided us last season, sent a delegation. The Pure Horse clan offered us a treasure as reward for our strike against the Shining Blossoms, who harried them for keeping slaves. We accepted the treasure, because why not?

(https://i.imgur.com/cFMCYj5.jpg)

Acting as our emissary, Angakon asked the Old Eagles to make good on the obligation they owed us, and provide us with cattle. Angakon asked for a few more cows than custom demanded. Eveltan, chief of the Old Eagle clan, agreed to give us a few extra cows. Some of his herders seemed unhappy with our request.

Our Gryphon allies sought our aid in a mission against Forosilvuli raiders from the southern Ram kingdoms. We sacrificed to Elmal on their behalf. In the story tent our priests whirled in warlike fashion, leaping to Elmal's side. He said he would grant aid to the Gryphons. Soon we heard that they fared poorly against the raiders. The Forosilvuli had drawn on the barbaric power of their own gods.

(https://i.imgur.com/OnIzsxv.jpg)

Maryu continued to lead rituals to heal our wounded, healing 22 more. Meanwhile, Churka's efforts to search for bandigs proved futile, as she could not find where they were hiding.

Brighteyes shamans wanted to trade for our Sow spirit. We declined, because while our treasury is low, we also need Sow's help to increase our food. They thanked us for our attention and departed.

(https://i.imgur.com/CrTqCQd.jpg)

And now it's Storm Season and we are being raided by Rams, the Orlanthi across the river!

(https://i.imgur.com/WY10kjs.jpg)

We set aside a small reserve, while the Rams performed some kind of ritual that caused it to start raining. Then we responded with an Elmali ritual of our own, Firehoof, that allowed our horses to fight as well. We then maneuvered for a better position and fell upon the Rams' flanks. We drove the Orvisi off, and were happy to have survived the battle, because our losses were again pretty bad!

(https://i.imgur.com/jjLMnJy.jpg)

While exploring our own lands, we found the bones and honor belts of Flint Heart explorers. We returned the remains, but kept the honor belts. Their priests thanked us, but Kondon could tell they were wondering about the missing gold. But hey, our wealth is low so we need everything we can get!

(https://i.imgur.com/td1zmmU.jpg)

The time came to add more fabric to the tent that tells our sacred story. We waylaid Blue Crest crafters and their guard, taking the bolt of cloth they'd agreed to deliver to the Flame Singer clan. Take that, Blue Crests!

(https://i.imgur.com/JXBbwJX.jpg)

Kondon sought alliance with the Old Eagles. They agreed that we should join forces against the valley's many dangers, and became our allies. The Old Eagles are the guys who love raiding, so hopefully now they won't raid us anymore!

We spotted a herd raid by the Shining Blossoms, but only had 13 warriors to send against their 19. We were driven from the battlefield and plundered, as they took 24 cows and 10 horses. Bugger.

At the end of the year, our chief trader Bolda died of old age. She made some good and some bad deals, but overall was pretty skilled. We will miss her.

Sacred Time has arrived. Our clan suffered many losses this year, both people and livestock. Many are still wounded, too. Fortunately, our magic is strong this time, as we put it into Fields and Wilds to help with food (as the priests say the cows will give little milk), Health and Ritual to help with healing the wounded, and 2 into War to hopefully have better luck in battle. I think next year we might have to forgo raiding altogether and concentrate on defense, healing, and improving our economy.

(https://i.imgur.com/WV3oj5h.jpg)

I'm really enjoying this.  Thanks for putting it together.

Orala's Year 11

Maryu tells us about a disturbing portent.

(https://i.imgur.com/Wl3DUck.jpg)

Ram People paid us an unexpected visit. We could not tell what they wanted. We asked if they want us to owe them a favor. They screwed up their faces in confusion and wandered off.

(https://i.imgur.com/sqY8mQ8.jpg)

Through messengers, the Shining Blossoms accused us of cursing them. We thanked the messengers. People worried of the damage our reputation would suffer throughout the valley, with these accusations of fell magic unanswered.

(https://i.imgur.com/jtj0Veq.jpg)

Doren arranged for some better herding practices, and we recovered some cattle.

(https://i.imgur.com/NDUkycU.jpg)

Kondon said that due to our theft of story cloth last year, both the Flame Singer and Blue Crest clans now hate us. He also reported that there are many Rams clans living across the Black Eel River. Here is what we know now:

(https://i.imgur.com/9Cf6kIN.jpg)

In preparation for raiding season, Bandars promoted 4 new warriors.

Soon, the Ar-Tarimae raided us. They slipped past our patrols and we were forced to fight against a bigger force. We performed the Battle Glow ritual, firing up our forces to win, but the Ar-Tarimae also performed a ritual that ignited the wheels of their chariots. We began with a skirmish, but failed to inflict many casualties. We tried to conserve our strength and fight cautiously, but their fierce attack could not be withstood. We were driven from the battlefield and looted. The Ar-Tarimae stole 20 cows and some other loot, but at least we had very few casualties this time!

(https://i.imgur.com/fhORm2e.jpg)

Not discouraged, we sent a cattle raid and stole 29 cows from the Shining Blossoms. We are still ahead on cows!

Churka told us that our allies the Old Eagles performed a magical ritual and attacked the Orvisi clan, achieving great victory. We also performed a ritual of our own, sacrificing to Elmal to gain the Steadfast blessing, that should help us in defense.

(https://i.imgur.com/IVLgLW6.jpg)

The Jade Colts called in a favor, requesting a gift of magic. We gifted them with divine magic. Our priests spun but could not contact the gods. The Jade Colts would come back another time to collect the obligation we owed them.

(https://i.imgur.com/aeQ37OC.jpg)

Bandits attacked our exploration party in the clan lands. Churka and her forces killed and scattered them. Afterwards they found a bit of magic for our rituals. Churka continues to deliver.

(https://i.imgur.com/aE05dzM.jpg)

A Ram girl, Hindala, ran away from her clan and was found in scandalous embrace with one of our young men, Chadoro. We could not tolerate this fraternizing with Rams (and could not risk upsetting the Old Eagles), so we encouraged them to drown themselves. They agreed that they did not want to live if they could not be together. Chadoro gathered up stones. He weighed Hindala down, and then himself. Holding hands, they leapt into a deep pond by the berry bushes where the two of them had been caught.

(https://i.imgur.com/TQl7YTM.jpg)

We built a shrine to Elmal to permanently provide the Steadfast blessing for our defense.

Shortly afterwards, we were raided by the Shining Blossoms. They slipped past our patrols and we had to fight with a smaller force. After a series of clashes, the Shining Blossoms managed to outfight us, somehow. We were driven from the battlefield and plundered. We losts cows and lots of people. So far, Elmal's blessing did not seem to be working.

(https://i.imgur.com/yFfITIr.jpg)

A delegation from our Father Clan, the Starshines, came from the north seeking Swords. None of our Swords wished to leave us for the uncertainties of the north. We marked their departure with a song.

(https://i.imgur.com/B0pTp5s.jpg)

To finish the year, Bandars raised 3 new warriors. At Sacred Time, we again had plenty of magic thanks to Raven's intervention. We put some in Diplomacy to help with our standing among the other clans, as many of them now hate us and we cannot afford so many enemies. We also make plans to explore, so put some magic towards that. The rest is pretty much the usual.

(https://i.imgur.com/d1CtWYY.jpg)

Next up: More fighting and more dying, and a bit of diplomacy.

Orala's Year 12

Our trade goods were so low that we could no longer afford to maintain our shrine to Pela and had to take it down. We'll need to rebuild it as soon as possible, I think.

There was an earthquake, and Maryu shared some thoughts about it. Apparently it was caused by the earth goddess of the Rams.

(https://i.imgur.com/MoyoC7f.jpg)

We've lost a lot of people, so we needed some new clan members. Derenei visited the other Rider clans, looking for people willing to join the Swift Mares. She managed to convince 15 people to pack up and move. They brought with them eight children. Our people grumbled that we had gotten the dregs of the other clans.

(https://i.imgur.com/jdcvUnQ.jpg)

One of our exploration parties found gems on our lands. This should help our market.

(https://i.imgur.com/qDvs5bC.jpg)

Kosyalor, one of our elite warriors, attacked the elders ruling against him in a legal case. We did not want to upset our warriors too much, so we ordered Kosyalor subjected to an equivalent beating.

(https://i.imgur.com/r4T6tD1.jpg)

As the Fire Season began, we sacrificed to Elmal and learned the mysteries of his Morale blessing.

Soon after, we were raided by the Varlevings, one of the Rams clans across the river. We spotted their raid and could bring all of our warriors to defend. Again we sacrificed to Elmal for the Battle Glow ritual to fire up our warriors. The Varlevings rushed our lined in a berserk attack, but we fought back fiercely and it was soon over. We drove the Varlevings off, and their survivors left without looting our land. We still suffered too many casualties, though. Afterwards, Maryu led a ceremony to Erissa to heal 21 of our wounded.

(https://i.imgur.com/gDSGKiH.jpg)

We found out that Mazelna of the Karent family loved a Ram warrior named Sartar. Dammit, more fraternizing with the enemy! We let her family deal with this. People said that the council had underestimated the seriousness of this affront.

(https://i.imgur.com/d5mnHjf.jpg)

Maryu told us that the Karent family is expecting a new birth soon. There are good portents surrounding it.

(https://i.imgur.com/suJyTb1.jpg)

While exploring our lands, we found six cows worth of gems. More loot! We used some of it to rebuild our shrine to Pela.

People complained that the circle was too slow to adapt. We threw a feast, promising to do better. The change seekers got good and drunk. They mocked the circle long into the night.

(https://i.imgur.com/QLMXUfE.jpg)

Maryu tells us about a strange vision she had. It seems to refer to past events.

(https://i.imgur.com/R3dtPBy.jpg)

The Old Eagles asked to betroth one of their young men and Ayvtu, the girl with fire powers. We told them to come back when she is of age. They said they understood, for they too wanted what would bring Ayvtu happiness. And our clan mood was somewhat improved by this.

(https://i.imgur.com/N6XQuyq.jpg)

The Blue Crest clan announced a hawking competition. We sought to smooth over differences with hostile Rider clans. As hawks coursed the sky above our heads, we talked to leaders from clans we would not normally encounter in a friendly way. Hopefully this is the beginning of our diplomatic advancement.

(https://i.imgur.com/plUqu7I.jpg)

We discovered a small grove of ebony trees while exploring our lands. More material for our crafters!

(https://i.imgur.com/Rtt41va.jpg)

We were raided by the Shining Blossoms. We spotted their raid and brought all our warriors to defend. The Battle Glow ritual seems to be useful, so we performed that, while the Shining Blossoms performed their own ritual to fire up their bows. We charged at them, while they shot at us with deadly precision. To exploit their fear of us, we attacked them with berserk fury, and they could not stand before us. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and their survivors left without plundering us. We again lost some men, but not as many as before.

(https://i.imgur.com/oBI3m6O.jpg)

Our leading farmers noted that our fields were just beginning to show signs of exhaustion.

(https://i.imgur.com/nAKmJhE.jpg)

Our shamans said many great spirits were abroad in the land, and it was a good time to seek a blessing from one of them. They called on a light spirit, to win others' trust.

(https://i.imgur.com/YWCXy1v.jpg)

Derenei convinced the Mor-Kagin clan to create a new trading route and made a small profit from her trip.

At the end of the year, our war leader Bandars and one of our shamans, Tayrnak, died of old age. This comes at a bad time as the Sacred Time is almost upon us and we will not have time to appoint a new ring member to replace Bandars.

(https://i.imgur.com/9XiJ4n6.jpg)

Sacred Time has arrived. We placed our magic in the usual areas, although with Bandars dead, we cannot place as much into War. We also placed some into Harmony to help clan maintain internal peace, as some disputes have arisen in the recent years. We will continue to improve our economy and try to make peace with other clans, as we have too many enemies now.

(https://i.imgur.com/XIxTCOl.jpg)

Orala's Year 13

The Char-Orisa let us know that many good omens accompanied the birth of their chief's son Autronos. We sent them some cows as a gift.

(https://i.imgur.com/KD8cHvJ.jpg)

The Karent bloodline asked the clan to celebrate the auspicious birth of a new child, a boy they named Beren. We announced the birth to other Rider clans. Our fellow clans shared in our joy, and hoped for great things when Beren grew to manhood. We actually managed to make them hate us less as a result.

(https://i.imgur.com/0EthrWq.jpg)

We needed a new warleader on the clan circle to replace Bandars. It was unanimously decided that Churka was the best replacement, with her skills and longtime service to the clan.

(https://i.imgur.com/2fr5tqj.jpg)

Our Raven trickster strikes again! Old Eagle and Brighteyes delegations arrived to demand redress after Bardalor promised each he would lay a trickster curse on the other. We returned cows only to the Old Eagles, as they are our allies and we want to keep them happy. The Brighteyes took this as badly as we expected, which was very badly. They hate us again now.

(https://i.imgur.com/jsC7zhe.jpg)

We now had enough goods, so our priests sacrificed to consecrate our clan hall. Maryu led the ceremony. The gods praised their generosity, and Busenari, Gamari, and Uryarda in particular gave their blessing to our pastures.

(https://i.imgur.com/nVSRBi4.jpg)

We raided the Shining Blossoms and eluded their patrols. Our allies the Old Eagle sent some warriors to help. We performed the Battle Glow ritual while the enemy shot arrows at us. Afterwards we charged at them while they did a ritual of their own to enhance their arrows. Churka saw that the enemy had dropped an apparent magic weapon. Churka fought her way to it. She dealt hard blows to those who stood in the way. She snatched up the weapon, later identified as the Master Sword (it's a magical item that fights on its own like a warrior). We continued our berserk attack, and the enemy could not keep resisting. We drove the Shining Blossoms from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands. We seized the Helm of Elmal, a magical treasure that grants divine blessings to worshippers of Elmal.

(https://i.imgur.com/CJbXvx8.jpg)

The Urkarnings raided us. They slipped past our patrols and we had to fight with few warriors. We conducted the Battle Glow ritual and fought ferociously, as did they. But our ferocity was stronger. We drove the Urkarnings off, and were happy to have survived the battle. There were too many losses again.

(https://i.imgur.com/78HqnFL.jpg)

After the battle, Churka raised 4 new warriors. She also offered some thoughts on the raid.

(https://i.imgur.com/m12vE4z.jpg)

Shining Blossom emissaries wanted to know the story of Hippogriff Reborn. Apparently they don't mind that we just raided them. We said we did not know it. They thanked us for our time, and moved along.

(https://i.imgur.com/F2z10px.jpg)

We sent out two parties. Doren went foraging into the northern forests, as our food situation is precarious (we only have stores for one season). Churka went exploring even further north. Meanwhile, Angakon led a ritual to Elmal and we learned the details of the story "Elmal Guards the Sunpath".

Lyafor, youngest of the children who prematurely gained fire magic, grew old enough to say he was leaving, to heed Elmal's call. We performed a ritual to bless him with powerful war magic. The magic passed into him, and his eyes glowed with the burning rage of the sun. Our war magic will be strained for a while, but hopefully this is worth it.

(https://i.imgur.com/T9Qiz5S.jpg)

Doren returned from the foraging expedition with lots of food!

(https://i.imgur.com/7ZWp31W.jpg)

Churka's expedition did not fare as well. She encountered a party of trolls, and lost a couple of men to their attacks as she led a retreat. At least she herself survived the journey.

(https://i.imgur.com/aundKVY.jpg)

Rams called Forosilvuli came from beyond the valley to ask us where the Ku-Randeri were, so they could attack them. We had just sent an envoy to the Ku-Randeri to smooth over our feud! We told the Forosilvuli to go ask local Rams instead. "We are not asking them," they cried. "We are asking you!" And with that, they attacked us. Their long-fanged sakkar did not help them much. We killed five Forosilvuli and scattered the others, but two of our warriors were hurt.

(https://i.imgur.com/SbooLNK.jpg)

Angakon led a ritual to Elmal and learned the Flaming Lance blessing. Meanwhile, Henedra said that our fields had been used for many years, and were no longer as productive. We will have to address that.

We sent Kondon with gifts to the Ku-Randeri. It did not quite end our feud, but our clan mood was improved since we tried to reduce the number of our enemies.

(https://i.imgur.com/kCMFMK8.jpg)

In the Storm Season, the Paral-Uni raided us for 22 cows.

We were raided by the Shining Blossoms, who slipped past our patrols. We performed the Battle Glow ritual and advanced, while the enemy moved some forces into reserve. We attacked in a berserk fashion, and it looked like the battle could go our way. Churka slew an enemy noble and was surrounded by enemy Bows. Churka took them all on. She struck down many of their petty warriors. Unfortunately, the Shining Blossoms brought their reserve into play, countering our attack. Despite our fierce fighting, our morale could not withstand their resolve. We were driven from the battlefield and looted. In the aftermath, they knocked over our watch tower.

(https://i.imgur.com/GoPOk59.jpg)

In Sacred Time, we put our magic into the usual endeavors. We are losing too many people still, but at least our herds are doing better.

(https://i.imgur.com/8z4ICPO.jpg)

Orala's Year 14

One of our young shamans, Otoren, tells us some news.

(https://i.imgur.com/lqkzVHe.jpg)

Our clan hall was now completely ready to help organize our ventures.

(https://i.imgur.com/r7UAepg.jpg)

As said before, our fields are feeling the strain of planting. We cleared new fields and held a ceremony for the Barley Goddess and Earth Mother.

(https://i.imgur.com/afcMF7L.jpg)

The shaman Otoren said that we had not asked the Sow spirit for help for several years, and it was getting restless. Maryu led the ceremony to ask the spirit for help, and it agreed to help our food situation.

An earthquake caused a stampede, and some of our cows went missing. We lent Nyalda strength with a ritual. The priestesses said that the assistance we had given would help the Earth Mother heal her distant wounds. It would be some time before another quake would plague our cattle.

(https://i.imgur.com/FWS0nDD.jpg)

We rebuilt our watchtower and sent Churka to look for bandits again. Unfortunately, she still was not able to find any bandits. They hide far too well.

We were raided by the Blue Crests. They slipped past our patrols and we had to fight against a larger force.  The Blue Crest clan hero, Cherekem, charged us, horse wreathed in divine flame. Churka asked Gamari to wreathe her steed in flame. Gamari did not deem Churka worthy of this sign. Churka met Cherekem's charge head-on. Churka and Cherekem traded terrible blows. When it was all over, it was Cherekem who fell from horseback, wounded. His fellows groaned in disbelief. After that, our fierce attacks broke the Blue Crests' morale. We drove the Blue Crests off, and their survivors left without plundering us.

(https://i.imgur.com/jzfOsyk.jpg)

Eleen led a ritual to Ekarna and learned the details of "Ekarna's Four Trades".

We sent Kondon with gifts to the Brighteyes. Although they praised our generosity, we still could not end the feud.

A delegation from the Blue Crest clan sought the help of our elders in judging a legal case. We agreed, in exchange for a gift. They said that each party had agreed to pay us ten cows, if requested. Our elders ruled in favor of the party lodging the case. They did not let their connection to the chieftain count against them. Their chieftain beamed, triumphant. It's odd that they are asking for our help in a legal dispute despite just raiding us!

(https://i.imgur.com/EptRopQ.jpg)

We heard that three priestess sisters of the Orvisi clan greatly manifested the power of the Ram gods. We rallied our fellow Hyaloring clans to vigilance against Rams. We stirred the valley's Riders against the Vingkotling menace.

(https://i.imgur.com/krp3aa0.jpg)

The Orvisi clan wanted gifts for the birth of a baby girl supposedly descended from their founder and their rebel god, Orlanth. We gave them the aid of a protective spirit. They were surprised by this offer, but accepted it. The shamans found a horse spirit who said she was ready to stand over the girl's shoulder. She said she would whisper the child's name into her mother's ear. Thanks to our spirit, the girl would be named Redalda.

(https://i.imgur.com/oIXe5vP.jpg)

Maryu told us about a vision of Lyafor, the fire-blessed boy that went on a pilgrimage.

(https://i.imgur.com/6yRMHGu.jpg)

We tried to explore our clan lands, but foul weather turned back our exploration mission. Too many trolls. Afterwards, Churka raised 4 new warriors.

Bardalor, our Raven shaman, sold six of our children to charioteers. We contacted Raven, to disclaim support for slave traders. Bardalor donned a feathered cape and flapped and cawed. He said Raven accepted our change of heart. We tried to find out where the children are now. "They are long gone by now," Bardalor said, "taken to the Wheel kingdom up north." Shamans drummed the rhythm of the truth rune. Owl spirits flew north to the kingdom of the Wheels. They came back to say they could guide a raid to the right clan, if we choose to go. Damn Bardalor, this is going over the line! We don't mind you screwing with other clans, but our own?

(https://i.imgur.com/wX0yKa5.jpg)

Angakon led a ritual to Elmal and we learned the Protection blessing, that reduces our wounds in battle. This is definitely one we are taking.

Blue Crest emissaries came to talk about Rams. We were noncommittal.

(https://i.imgur.com/1FwUA2u.jpg)

Under the cover of negotiations, the Blue Crests stole 32 cows from us in a herd raid! Bastards!

Our own herd raid did not go as well. We abandoned our herd raid against the Shining Blossoms because they spotted us.

Sacred Time is upon us. This time we have little magic, because Raven stole some. I think we are done with having Bardalor on the clan ring. We put our magic into the most important things - fighting, diplomacy, and maintaining our herds.

(https://i.imgur.com/NiGiIN7.jpg)

Orala's Year 15

Otoren told us we aren't exactly the most popular clan right now. Even our parent clan is embarrassed for us.

(https://i.imgur.com/Az3Xtlo.jpg)

Meanwhile, Dalasha says that this will be a cold year.

(https://i.imgur.com/6Sv4huB.jpg)

Derenei visited the other Rider clans, looking for people willing to join the Swift Mares. She managed to convince twelve people to pack up and move. They brought with them seven children.

Old Eagles wanted us to take part in a ritual against giant bears. That sounded weird, but the Old Eagles are our allies and we want to keep them happy. We said we would take part. Our holy people blazed to the heavenly haunts of the gods, along with the priests of many other valley clans. Old Eagle priests pronounced the rite successful, and the threat of giant bears averted. We also managed to end a feud with one of the clans that hated us. More anti-giant bear rituals, I say! Fuck giant bears!

(https://i.imgur.com/1FGKo8w.jpg)

Alright, time for Bardalor to be kicked off the clan circle. Fortunately, we have a perfect replacement for him, Henedra, who is from the same family, is also great at managing food, and is the same age. She will be our new circle member.

(https://i.imgur.com/T2qSQ0b.jpg)

At the start of Fire season, we changed our permanent blessing from the shrine of Elmal from Steadfast to Protection, to reduce our wounds in battle. As the future will tell, this was an excellent decision!

Fire season, time to raid! We raided the Shining Blossoms and eluded their patrols. We fought fiercely and they could not stand before us. We drove the Shining Blossoms from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands. We seized the Bowl of Healing Smoke, a magical treasure that helps cure the sick. Also, we suffered no losses at all, while kicking their butts all over the valley!

(https://i.imgur.com/hIJy2Rk.jpg)

Doren said that there was no proper Fire season, and many of our crops would fail. We'll need to think about food again.

Wheels of the Ar-Tarima clan wanted to briefly rest their captured Rams, bound for sale up north, in our village. Well, we did promise to Raven that we would not tolerate slavery anymore. We told them that the Swift Mare clan loathed slavery and condemned those who practiced it. Their sputtering umbrage should have given the people joy, but instead they were afraid.

(https://i.imgur.com/uNn6JQa.jpg)

We were raided by the Jernelthi. We spotted them and brought all our warriors forth. We conducted the Battle Glow ritual, but the Rams whooped at us and our warriors' morale was shaken. We skirmished with them, but they summoned rain to hinder our archers. Maryu then rallied our warriors in the name of Elmal, and their resolve was restored. Otoren saw that the Rams had left their battle standard exposed. Otoren engaged its few guardians and sent them all to whatever hell Rams go to, then seized the standard. Otoren held onto it; though it would be of no use to us, we could trade it away. We drove the Jernelthi off, and their survivors left without looting us. Again, we had only two wounded while wounding and killing many Rams.

The Shining Blossoms raided us. We spotted them and engaged in a fierce battle. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and their survivors left without plundering our land. No wounds for us and dozens of dead and wounded for them! Elmal has truly blessed us!

We sent Derenei to the Orvisi with the Orlanthi Battle Standard that we captured earlier, to try to exchange treasures with them. Sadly, Derenei was hard-pressed to sell the Orlanthi Battle Standard, and had to accept a poor price for it.

(https://i.imgur.com/fWq1G4q.jpg)

The Jade Colts called in a favor, asking for 20 cows. We gave them what they asked. They thanked us and departed.

Maryu led a sacrifice to Busenari to learn Milk Blessing, which could help us get more to eat. Meanwhile, Doren led a foraging expedition to the northern woods, finding something to eat as well.

Orala said that it's been ten years since our last ritual, the one where we tamed the river. It was time for a new one to keep the gods happy. We decided to perform the story "Elmal Guards the Sunpath". Here is what we know of it:

(https://i.imgur.com/vTn6e4M.jpg)

We sought Elmal's blessing by riding to the sunpath. To gird our actions on the sunpath we sought the aid of other clans. Instead of help, we got mockery. We also petitioned Wheels for ritual aid. Two charioteer chieftains expressed zeal for a solar blessing. We chose Churka to perform the ritual; she worships Osara, and so should be good for this ritual. She took the Helm of Elmal with her to aid in her journey in the Gods War.

(https://i.imgur.com/u9v98vc.jpg)

Churka found Little Yelm on the sunpath, scavenging its stones. Churka said "This is unworthy of you." Little Yelm answered by charging with outstretched spear. Churka fought against Little Yelm as she would against an inferior. Little Yelm didn't stand a chance. Churka was right to fight him this way.

(https://i.imgur.com/C22sWkd.jpg)

Churka found the Demon Sun laying claim to the sunpath. She greeted him with an immediate attack. Churka fought against Shargash as she would against a monster. After a furious battle, Churka pushed Shargash from the sunpath.

(https://i.imgur.com/OLSi0V4.jpg)

Churka found a host of golden men stripping the sunpath of its stones. Churka brandished her whooping stick. They scattered, terrified, leaving behind the stones they'd been trying to steal.

(https://i.imgur.com/XkRjMai.jpg)

The Cold Sun attacked Churka with a blast of frigid air. Churka took on this foe head-on. It took every grain of strength, but Churka finally wounded the Cold Sun, driving him off for at least seven more years.

(https://i.imgur.com/nXJ3a7u.jpg)

Elmal thanked Churka for guarding the sunpath. Divine wisdom suffused Churka's being; her combat skills are now heroic. The Wheels in attendance were fulsome in their praise. We might differ on many matters, but not in our devotion to Elmal, or our vigilance in guarding the sunpath. The Ku-Randar clan no longer hates us!

(https://i.imgur.com/IjEsS0E.jpg)

Yatakan, one of the boys gifted with fire magic of Elmal, has grown into a man. He is now available for serving the clan. He is young, and is a member of the Zarent family, which has so far been represented on the circle by Elindrai. Yatakan certainly looks like he will be a good replacement, and may even be chieftain material someday!

(https://i.imgur.com/VjAVd2A.jpg)

Maryu led a sacrifice to Busenari for his Milk Blessing. Hopefully our food stores will be replenished soon. Maryu also told us that the Blue Crest clan, who mocked us before, was impressed by Churka performing the ritual of Elmal, and now respect us again.

Rams came offering us valuables from the honor belts of Brighteyes nobles in exchange for livestock. We did not want to offend the Brighteyes, but also did not want to engage in unnecessary hostilities with the Rams, so we simply declined. They said there were no hard feelings and went on their way.

(https://i.imgur.com/EiCJPG8.jpg)

We built a temple to the trade goddess Ekarna where we had just a shrine before. Now our traders could establish a new trade route. Derenei convinced the Old Eagle clan to trade with us regularly.

We were raided by the Shining Blossoms. They slipped past our patrols and we had to fight while somewhat outnumbered. We performed the Battle Glow ritual while the enemy shifted some forces into reserve. We then shot them with arrows but soon ran out; nonetheless, their losses were great. Utilizing their fear of us, we let loose loud war cries, and they were intimidated. We then charged and fought fiercely, and ultimately prevailed. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and their survivors left without looting our land. This time ten of our warriors were wounded, but none were killed; the Shining Blossom losses were again in the dozens.

Kondon, our chief negotiator, died of old age. He served the clan well for many years and will be mourned.

Due to a shortage of goods, we could no longer afford to maintain our shrine to Pela. We will have to rebuild it again very soon.

Sacred Time is here and our magic is not great. We put it in War to help with combat, Crafts to help with trade and profit, and Wilds to get some more hunting in while it is still bountiful. The seers say we should acquire more magical treasures in the next two years to receive the blessing of Ekarna.

(https://i.imgur.com/JsytCPd.jpg)

Thanks for continuing this.  How did you know how to fight the various challenges on the Sun Path?

I read the story and tried to pick whichever way seemed the most appropriate. I suspect you can choose several options, they just influence your chance of success.

Orala's Year 16

Churka told us about an incident with the Mor-Kagini clan. They are the arrogant guys living in the west of the valley. Well, we don't want more enemies, so we'll let this slide.

(https://i.imgur.com/DEVZoNH.jpg)

With our clan hall built up, we can now engage in two ventures at once. We once again sent Churka to scour the valley for bandits, again with little success. Meanwhile, Derenei oversaw crafting of ebony sticks, making a nice profit.

(https://i.imgur.com/sNeVgOT.jpg)

Five of our foragers went missing. We sent a party to track them. Our searchers never found them.

(https://i.imgur.com/GZEQZyO.jpg)

Let's test our raiding skills a bit more this Fire season. We raided the Shining Blossoms and eluded their patrols. The Shining Blossoms managed to withdraw while our magicians performed a ritual. We plundered the Bowl of Unity, a magical treasure that rewards openness to new ways.

(https://i.imgur.com/ZByWDM6.jpg)

We raided the Ar-Tarimae and eluded their patrols. Churka remembered that the Ar-Tarima chief was noted for his caution. We performed the Battle Glow ritual, while the Wheels performed a ritual to ignite the wheels on their chariots. We shot arrows as they advanced on us. During the battle, Churka felt the might of Osara filling her, and took an opportunity to attack and break a formation of enemy footmen. We fought fiercely and cut them down as they tried to flee. We drove the Ar-Tarimae from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands. And look at those casualties!

(https://i.imgur.com/IpHCBA8.jpg)

Churka told us that the Old Eagles failed in their attack against the Rams. Oh well.

(https://i.imgur.com/sD1eAxF.jpg)

Our leading herders noted that our pastures were just beginning to show signs of damage from overgrazing.

(https://i.imgur.com/KNGCjai.jpg)

We spotted a herd raid by the Lastralings. We fired at them and then charged, and they could not withstand our mounted attack. We drove the Lastralings off, and their survivors left without looting us. A bit more losses on our side this time, unfortunately.

(https://i.imgur.com/T8NTipL.jpg)

Bandits offered us a piece of god bone stolen from the Sorandings in exchange for goods worth 50 cows. What? We don't negotiate with bandits! We decided to steal the treasure from the bandits. Churka found the cavern where the bandits lived. She and the others snuck in when only one bandit was left on guard. The bandit died unawares, and they left with the god bone. We kept the bone; it is a magical treasure that grants an edge in warfare, especially in fights against or involving Rams. Ekarna should be pleased with us acquiring all these new treasures!

(https://i.imgur.com/nNOTQG0.jpg)

We sent Doren to the northern woods again to forage for food, while Churka took a party to explore our clan lands some more. Outlaws attacked our exploration party in the clan lands. Churka and her forces killed and scattered them. They did not find anything new, however.

Rams of the Urkarning clan asked for brief hospitality, to rest their charioteer captives, which they planned to sell as thralls. We can't have slavers marching into our clan lands! We attacked them. We surprised them, routing them easily. We killed four of them and wounded easily twice that number. Two of our warriors were hurt. The slaves asked to be returned to the Ar-Tarima clan. We escorted them home. Their lost kin welcomed them with great joy and thanked us profusely. The Ar-Tarima no longer hate us!

(https://i.imgur.com/Gm8Pdum.jpg)

Ayvtu, the girl who had the strong fire magic, has grown into a woman. She may also be able to serve our clan, though she wants to marry outside of it.

(https://i.imgur.com/sBcOHJd.jpg)

Elindrai engaged herself to two men at once, prompting both claims to demand compensation. We compensated the Blue Crests. The Yellowhills said we would regret Elindrai's double-dealing. Dammit Elindrai! Well, this is a good reason to remove her from the clan ring. Her place will be taken by Yatakan, our young Elmali fire wielder!

(https://i.imgur.com/WNtUDjt.jpg)

Derenei convinced the Ar-Tarima clan to create a new trading route. But then the fuckers raided our herds and stole 26 cows! Grr.

Sacred Time is here! Our magic is pretty good this time, so we can assign a bit more to various things. We should really do more exploring soon, and maybe consider a ritual again. Also, it seems that the banditry threat is gone from the valley. Not sure what caused that, but not complaining!

(https://i.imgur.com/vIesmsA.jpg)

Been a bit busy, but now it continues!

Orala's Year 17

Doren's ability to provide food was acknowledged to be of heroic level.

(https://i.imgur.com/bpCNyFz.jpg)

Churka urges us to send her exploring. Perhaps we should do it soon.

(https://i.imgur.com/DL8uSeW.jpg)

For now though, we assigned Churka to the task of scouting for bandits. This time, she was much more successful, finding and killing many of them.

(https://i.imgur.com/wAtSqkE.jpg)

Plant people attacked our fields, blighting our crops. We cannot really go fighting in Sea Season, so we have to resort to magic. We performed an earth magic ritual to reverse the blight. Nyalda the earth mother leached the wild elf magic from the fields, taking with it the blight.

(https://i.imgur.com/ye0QKsX.jpg)

We raided the Shining Blossoms and eluded their patrols. We responded to their taunts with our own. Churka led us to victory. We drove the Shining Blossoms from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands. We seized the Mighty Whooping Rattle.

(https://i.imgur.com/FdWD0bf.jpg)

The Blue Crests raided us. We drove the Blue Crests off, and their survivors left without looting us. Our casualties were fairly high, though, so Churka had to raise four new warriors afterwards.

(https://i.imgur.com/PowEvkp.jpg)

We learned that the Shining Blossoms had declared a feud against us. Things have really escalated now.

We sent Churka exploring to the east with a small party.

The Brilliant Hoof clan came to threaten us with reprisals if we did not relent in our assaults against the Shining Blossom clan. We said we would grant peace, but the Shining Blossoms would have to pay a token tribute each year. They said we did not understand the peril of our situation. We sought to win them to our side. They took offense at our attempt to befriend them. Their allegiance could not be traded for as if it was a goat or skin of kumis. We agreed. Our warriors said we had taken the only wise course—the Brilliant Hoofs fielded a much tougher force than the Shining Blossoms.

(https://i.imgur.com/RQyEvVk.jpg)

We sent Otoren with gifts to the Shining Blossoms, with whom we were feuding. They accepted the gifts, but the feud could not be resolved yet.

(https://i.imgur.com/6aksLCe.jpg)

Derenei shared our exploration with other clans. Hopefully this will make them like us more.

(https://i.imgur.com/K17cBZK.jpg)

Our pastures had been grazed for many years, and were no longer as productive. We will have to think what to do about this.

(https://i.imgur.com/DjIejFB.jpg)

The Gryphon clan announced a hawking competition. We sought to smooth over differences with hostile Rider clans. As hawks coursed the sky above our heads, we talked to leaders from clans we would not normally encounter in a friendly way.

(https://i.imgur.com/bX5MCve.jpg)

We sacrificed to Busenari and learned the details of the story "Busenari Finds the Light". Perhaps next year we will send someone to Gods War to perform this ritual.

Churka returned from her exploration and told that she found some other explorers there, in the Dog Hills. She traded with them and made a small profit.

(https://i.imgur.com/O6APROS.jpg)

A bizarre monster made of putrid flesh burst from below the surface, injuring one of our elders. We called on Elmal. The priests whirled in our temple to Elmal, begging the sun god's aid. A shaft of light blazed down from the heavens to incinerate the weird creature. It let out a sizzling sound and was consumed by the flames.

(https://i.imgur.com/Issi3wa.jpg)

The Yellowhills wanted exclusive trade access to our beer, but we declined. Sorry, we aren't giving away our beer anymore!

Maryu, our magic expert, died of old age. We will need someone else to replace her on the clan ring.

(https://i.imgur.com/j6OMtCS.jpg)

Derenei said that Ekarna has blessed us because we acquired at least two magical treasures in the last two years. Our market should be more profitable for a while!

We sent Otoren with a small party to search for spirits in the northern woods. He returned some time later and said that he found an Antelope spirit.

(https://i.imgur.com/1eWem7B.jpg)

We sent Angakon with gifts to the Yellowhills. They should be friendly now, and they also told us of a cave that could be explored.

(https://i.imgur.com/Wn7MKmL.jpg)

Our magic at Sacred Time is a bit bad, but we had some reserve, so we manage to allocate all the necessary things. Also, apparently we are now known for being bullies. Damn Shining Blossoms spoiling our reputation!

(https://i.imgur.com/skUls7q.jpg)

Orala's Year 18

The oracles predicted an unusual number of rats and vermin this year. Jereno also told us about an unusual number of disputes in the clan. We have these well in hand, though, so the clan mood is good.

(https://i.imgur.com/XFUMA76.jpg)

We reorganized the clan circle, appointing the young shaman Otoren in place of the deceased Maryu. Otoren is famous for his skill at magic, so he should be a good replacement.

Doren began trying to restore our overgrazed pastures, but it was clear that this year's effort wouldn't be enough.

(https://i.imgur.com/SmtBMuE.jpg)

The Gryphons asked us to speak for them, petitioning the Old Eagle clan for peace. We sent Derenei with some gifts and she talked to the Old Eagles for them. The Old Eagle leaders said they esteemed us highly, but were not prepared to abandon a target they'd spent so much effort softening up. When we told the Gryphons, they responded with dismay.

(https://i.imgur.com/KSfkbA3.jpg)

We raided the Jernelthi, the Ram clan south of the river. We drove the Jernelthi from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands.

(https://i.imgur.com/hPNyU6l.jpg)

We were raided by the Orvisi. We drove the Orvisi off, and their survivors left without plundering our land. Our casualties were pretty terrible, though. Churka started raising some new warriors before the battle.

(https://i.imgur.com/OHFCGa2.jpg)

We were raided by the Jernelthi. Old Eagle forces appeared to launch a surprise flanking attack against our foes. We matched the Old Eagles blow for blow. Our foes reeled. We drove the Jernelthi off, and were happy to have survived the battle. Our losses were quite light, but all this raiding is wearing us down again.

(https://i.imgur.com/QhawAuy.jpg)

We conducted a ritual to Erissa, asking her to heal our wounded, and she healed many. Churka also oversaw a crafting program, producing fine jewelry to improve our economic situation.

A Varleving girl tried to steal one of our horses, but fell and broke her neck. We returned her remains to her clan.

(https://i.imgur.com/QGBnydl.jpg)

Yellowhills wanted us to take part in a ritual against hoof blight. We said we would take part. Our holy people blazed to the heavenly haunts of the gods, along with the priests of many other valley clans. Yellowhill priests pronounced the rite successful, and the threat of hoof blight averted.

(https://i.imgur.com/LvhdkPA.jpg)

We still have many wounded, so Endarei led another ritual to Erissa to get some more healed. Also our food situation is not the greatest, so we had Otoren persuade the Sow spirit to help feed the clan.

The Sorandings asked us to speak for them, petitioning the Gryphon clan for peace. We stayed out of it. People said we should have helped them. They might have been Rams, the second-guessers said, but they were also humans.

(https://i.imgur.com/quB7SDg.jpg)

We sent Churka with some warriors to explore the woods north of the Char-Orisa clan lands.

Taking advantage of Churka's absence, the Blue Crests raided us. Otoren saw that the enemy had dropped an apparent magic weapon. Otoren fought his way to it, but could not reach it in time. Although we held our ground bravely, we were too outnumbered. We were driven from the battlefield and looted. In the aftermath, they burned our watch tower. The Ar-Tarimae also stole 17 cows in a cattle raid as we were recovering from our wounds.

(https://i.imgur.com/eN2EZdf.jpg)

Sacred Time approaches. This has been a horrible year for the clan. We lost many people, cattle, and horses. Churka is still away exploring, and we hope nothing has happened to her. We put our magic into the essential things again. Maybe we should try some diplomacy again next year.

(https://i.imgur.com/0wOueuY.jpg)

So apparently I made a big mistake in not doing something for several years that resulted in a huge loss of herds of my clan (I've played several years ahead already). Should I keep going and try to recover from this, or restart?

I say you play on. Overcoming challenges is what strategy gaming is all about.

Orala's Year 19

The oracles predicted that our crafters would have good luck this year.

The Sorandings gained many shaggy cows by performing a Gods War ritual. That's great, and here we are losing cattle to overgrazing.

(https://i.imgur.com/alx6AlI.jpg)

Our leading farmers noted that our fields were just beginning to show signs of exhaustion. Our land is really getting overworked!

(https://i.imgur.com/nFGq5KQ.jpg)

We cleared fields and held a ceremony for the Barley Goddess and Earth Mother. Hopefully this will give our fields some new life.

(https://i.imgur.com/73wHLcF.jpg)

We heard that the Blue Crests were one dispute away from declaring a feud against us. We sent Otoren to offer placatory words. They said that mere words could not compensate for the wrongs we had done them.

(https://i.imgur.com/w8WHwUR.jpg)

Plant folk gathered in our foraging grounds without permission. We performed an earth magic ritual to ward them off. Nyalda the earth mother drove them off with visions of cultivated land, on which they would be imprisoned and then harvested for food. The priests said we would not be bothered by elves for 15 seasons, at least. At least something is going right.

(https://i.imgur.com/raKTj7K.jpg)

Wild dogs killed 40 of our goats. We called wolf spirits to drive them off. The shamans drummed for them, and they howled in response. They would feast on those dogs, who would trouble us no more.

(https://i.imgur.com/C0SHKMg.jpg)

The effort to restore our pastures made little progress.

(https://i.imgur.com/9GM49Pf.jpg)

Yatakan told us that the clan ring members all had a strange dream.

(https://i.imgur.com/YTmiYgf.jpg)

We sent Otoren with gifts to the Jade Colts. They were happy with us, and told us about their exploration.

(https://i.imgur.com/2r7APub.jpg)

The Gryphons called in a favor, asking for 17 cows. We gave them what they asked. They thanked us and departed. Now is not the time we can afford to give away cows, but what can you do?

(https://i.imgur.com/4aI8L3H.jpg)

We sent Derenei to the Brighteyes to try to exchange treasures with them. She traded the Raven Rock for their Shining Sun Mask.

(https://i.imgur.com/3yzydSg.jpg)

Many of our horses fell sick. We called on the spirits for aid. Our shamans drummed up good spirits to chase out bad.

(https://i.imgur.com/DUPjfQv.jpg)

Blue Crest emissaries came to discuss overgrazing. We asked for their help to perform the "Busenari Finds the Light" ritual. They made no promises. We also bought some cows from them, though they seem to think we can actually keep them alive.

(https://i.imgur.com/2whFDku.jpg)

Churka and her party never returned from an expedition to the north. And like that, our most skilled clan leader is gone.

(https://i.imgur.com/YjRlACP.jpg)

We reorganized the clan circle. Ayvtu was chosen to replace Churka. She is one of those children blessed with fire magic. Unfortunately, we can no longer maintain the representation of all seven families on the clan ring, but we need skilled leaders right now.

(https://i.imgur.com/uxJYcEP.jpg)

Our herds continue to die off due to overgrazing. So far, our restoration efforts have been unsuccessful. At least we have a good amount of magic, so we can put it into important things.

(https://i.imgur.com/7jiLXxy.jpg)

Orala's Year 20

The leaves of the oak trees fell off early, but nobody agreed what this signified.

We sent Otoren with gifts to the Brilliant Hoofs, who seemed well-disposed towards us.

We heard that the Ku-Randeri had enriched themselves considerably.

(https://i.imgur.com/vA1MXAR.jpg)

We found out that Shining Blossom shamans were saying the next person to marry into our clan would die. We spread word that our own spirits said otherwise. We performed a divination to be certain. Our shamans understood immediately that the curse was a nonsense story, spread by untutored spirit-callers who did not know how to inhale smoke properly. Though we told the truth to anyone who would listen, the rumor persisted.

(https://i.imgur.com/uFBh8Ox.jpg)

We sent Otoren with gifts to the Flint Hearts. They were pleased.

The Jernelthi raided us. We did not detect them in time, and so had to fight against a larger force. We were driven from the battlefield and looted. We also suffered bad losses.

(https://i.imgur.com/hXqm6zX.jpg)

Kosralod, a visitor from far away, told us of the Last Tablet Plateau, where dwelt a priestess who was the daughter of Hyalor and the elf goddess, Aldrya. This caused consternation. We sent a priestly mission to the plateau. Over a period of days, Kosralod gave Ayvtu very detailed instructions. Ayvtu committed these carefully to memory, then set off for a long journey.

(https://i.imgur.com/9guF3ON.jpg)

Ergeshites came wanting to trade some of their goats for trade goods. We entered into negotiations. We bargained shrewdly, gaining 20 goats for goods we valued as being worth eight cows. The people chattered excitedly as they examined the new additions to our herd.

(https://i.imgur.com/FOnuomm.jpg)

We are now getting quite low on food as well. To make matters worse, our hunting and foraging missions have failed to find anything.

(https://i.imgur.com/ITenzxK.jpg)

The Brighteyes announced a race day. We sought to smooth over differences. As the spirit of sportsmanship reigned, we talked to leaders from a clan we would not normally encounter in friendly circumstances.

(https://i.imgur.com/3eLjmTj.jpg)

The wandering Starmane clan sought permission to briefly pasture their cattle on our lands, before moving on. We asked them for cows. They gave us two sleek calves. They took pains not to overtax their welcome, proving a reticent lot.

(https://i.imgur.com/WfOZvbH.jpg)

Sacred Time is here again and we take stock. Our herds continue to dwindle badly, and our clan is not growing. Have the gods cursed us?

(https://i.imgur.com/S5RgNp3.jpg)

Orala's Year 21

The oracles forecast a mild Dark season.

Otoren told us a story about some Rams beating each other up. Our people had a good laugh about it.

(https://i.imgur.com/UlQsZnr.jpg)

Ayvtu returned from the mission you sent to the far distant Last Tablet Plateau to confirm that the priestess Cenala lived there, and was the daughter of Hyalor and the elf goddess Aldrya. We sought to share this revelation with Hyaloring neighbors. Otoren traveled among the clans, spreading the word of Cenala. Three of our Hyaloring neighbors accepted these revelations, as we had. Seven said we had to be wrong. Seems we might be starting a new cult soon. Otoren recommended that we build a shrine to Hyalor to receive extra benefits from this revelation.

(https://i.imgur.com/rPVlhmZ.jpg)

Charioteers of the Mor-Kagini came to us for help, their horse herds afflicted with hoof rot. We performed a ritual to bolster their priests and priestesses. We called on Gamari. The Mor-Kagin priests felt the goddess' blessing upon them. They expressed their gratitude, and said that when their war leaders chose their next target, we would most definitely be spared.

(https://i.imgur.com/7EkOWwv.jpg)

The Old Eagle clan saw our troubles and offered help. They gave us 27 cows. We agreed that we owed them a favor.

(https://i.imgur.com/cOWElVg.jpg)

We were raided by the Varlevings. Otoren injured a sweaty, screaming Ram and was surrounded by enemy spearmen, who cut him down. And thus our most promising young shaman was killed. We were driven from the battlefield and looted.

(https://i.imgur.com/Cp4enwU.jpg)

We reorganized the clan circle, appointing Angakon in place of Otoren as our magic expert.

(https://i.imgur.com/tPoAkYn.jpg)

Cows, separated from their owners by mischief spirits, wandered onto our lands. We kept them. Right now we'll take any cows we can get!

(https://i.imgur.com/DQCIaqI.jpg)

Families from the Flint Heart clan wanted us to weigh in for them as their elders mulled who their new chieftain would be. We interceded, as they requested. We made clear which choice of chieftain would please us. Not wishing to attract either our wrath or our mockery, they saw the wisdom of our choice. Heladivus, who owed his position to us, would surely do as we wanted in the future.

(https://i.imgur.com/e1NXfZP.jpg)

We sent a mission to the Flame Singer clan to request food in exchange for the favor they owed us. Angakon asked for the usual amount. The Flame Singers provided us with the food without complaint. Angakon said that we are now better at diplomacy, having sent an emissary to every Rider clan.

(https://i.imgur.com/3kqtbkr.jpg)

Henedra continued the slow process of burning unwanted growth, spreading manure, and dealing with erosion. Our pastures are still in very bad shape.

Manifesting our new understanding of Hyalor's elf connection, our shrine to him sprouted a beautiful flowering vine. We invited nonbelievers in Cenala to witness this manifestation. Four of the skeptical clans accepted that our revelation was true, and that Cenala was the daughter of Hyalor and the elf queen. Our cult continues to grow!

(https://i.imgur.com/Nn0PRgv.jpg)

Our fellow believers in Cenala said we should do something about one of the last few holdouts. We let them be. People were glad that the circle saw no need to force its truths on others.

(https://i.imgur.com/nHdQJs8.jpg)

We were raided by the Blue Crests. We did not spot them in time and were badly outnumbered. We were driven from the battlefield and plundered. They plundered the Bowl of Healing Smoke.

(https://i.imgur.com/vhG9O3s.jpg)

The Shining Blossoms raided us. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and were happy to have survived the battle. All this raiding is taking a toll on our people.

(https://i.imgur.com/Ej1E8YS.jpg)

Orala's Year 22

The oracles expected that our esteem among the other clans would increase. That would be nice.

Yatakan and our hunters searched high and low, but were unable to find new game trails. They brought back what they could. Our food situation continues to be bad.

Insinor, the child adopted earlier by chief Orala, has grown into a young man.

(https://i.imgur.com/nUoOEHq.jpg)

Lankarn, the Gryphon war leader, wanted us to play chadash with his men, using the head of the Erthaling chieftain as the ball. We played the game. They won the match, but praised our high-spirited play.

(https://i.imgur.com/Kkrd2iR.jpg)

It has become clear that the only way we will restore our pastures is by conducting a ritual to enter the Gods War and seeking the aid of Busenari. Here is what we know of the story.

(https://i.imgur.com/37NHNgn.jpg)

We decided to ride to Busenari for a blessing. Riders who shared our belief in the Cenala revelation agreed to lend their worship. We also sought aid from the Wheels. Wheel chieftains who respected us agreed to lend aid.

(https://i.imgur.com/hFEAO7M.jpg)

We chose Derenei to enter the Gods War, even though is not a worshipper of Busenari. She is the most skilled person we have for this task.

(https://i.imgur.com/5DgmZah.jpg)

*
Derenei found Busenari's daughters alone in a chilly pasture, threatened by wolves. Derenei sang the cows a calming song. The song that came to her lips was called Let Elmal Worry About What Lays Beyond the Fields. Busenari's daughters lowed, taking heart from its ancient melody.

(https://i.imgur.com/37sJgn1.jpg)

Busenari's daughters scattered in the darkness. Derenei reassured them. Another song came to Derenei's lips, and it was called Now is the Time To Gather Ourselves. And gather themselves they did.

(https://i.imgur.com/1E1YoJX.jpg)

Ice came to fill the pasture, killing the grass. Derenei led them south, which was the Right Direction. Foes both ancient and new harried them on their way. Many of Busenari's daughters were lost.

(https://i.imgur.com/auAR5gH.jpg)

Derenei led the daughters of Busenari to Gamari, who said their home was now everywhere. They did not seem so pleased to hear this. Derenei urged Gamari to give the daughters her joy in wandering. Gamari snorted. If cows were meant to be brave, they'd have been born horses instead.

(https://i.imgur.com/4kB4t7t.jpg)

Busenari thanked Derenei for herding her daughters to their new home. Busenari restored our damaged pastures.
*
The clans who supported our rite shared in its benefits. They banged cowbells in salute to Derenei. Our success caused clans who resisted the truth of Cenala to question their certainty. If Busenari still blessed us, how could we be wrong? The Wheels in attendance said we had achieved admirable dominance over the feminine impulse. This was their way of paying a compliment. We were not in a mood to reject a show of respect, no matter how oddly phrased.

(https://i.imgur.com/4xv70e2.jpg)

The Ar-Tarimae raided us for 54 goats.

A Jade Colt war party wanted us to broker ransom for Blue Crest prisoners they had taken. We agreed. The Blue Crests paid the ransom, but we could tell that they associated us with the acts of the Jade Colts.

(https://i.imgur.com/ngy1zyY.jpg)

Doren and his party never returned from an expedition to the north. Another skilled noble lost.

The Shining Blossoms wanted our help fighting bandits. We said we would help. Yatakan led them to the bandit lair, and the battle began. The bandits proved surprisingly adept. They staged an effective fighting retreat, thinning our ranks as they escaped. Of our force, four warriors were killed and eight were wounded.

(https://i.imgur.com/NXXL982.jpg)

Derenei led a caravan to trade with the Flint Hearts. We traded 33 cows' worth of goods for less than 4 weeks of food.

While exploring our lands, we found nine cows worth of gems.

Rams of the Erthaling clan requested an afternoon's hospitality. They had prisoners from their rivals among the Soranding clan, who they intended to sell as slaves. We declined. We told them that the Swift Mare clan would never tolerate slavers. This vexed them, pleasing our people.

(https://i.imgur.com/REqvIH9.jpg)

Derenei convinced the Flame Singer clan to create a new trading route. We also made a small profit from the trip.

The Brilliant Hoof clan announced a hawking competition. We sought to smooth over differences with hostile Rider clans. As hawks coursed the sky above our heads, we talked to leaders from clans we would not normally encounter in a friendly way.

(https://i.imgur.com/Ksy1GYO.jpg)

Sacred Time is upon us. Our herds are still declining, but it will hopefully get better soon. Our magic is very low, so we put it into the bare necessities.

(https://i.imgur.com/CXpMHpZ.jpg)

Orala's Year 23

The attention of the Sky Court was elsewhere, because sorcerers attacked Nyalda's palace. Our clan magic suffered as a result.

Henedra said that the Brighteyes continued to increase their large herds. She recommended we either ally with or raid them.

Over several weeks, Henedra led our herders in tending to sick animals. Thanks to her efforts we saved 17 cows that we would otherwise have lost.

The Urkarning clan swelled in numbers as fellow Ram People came there to settle. We told about this to our allies Old Eagles, known as the Ram Killers, a Hyaloring clan that hates the Ram People. The Old Eagles received our news with stoic gratitude. They did not say so, but we gathered that they were planning to hit the Urkarnings before they got too settled.

(https://i.imgur.com/q9D0oUD.jpg)

Our food is running very low. Ayoga led our foragers in searching for additional food around our clan lands, but was unable to find much.

We also sent Henedra with a small party to forage in the northern woods. Bandits attacked our foraging party in the north. Henedra tried to avoid the fight and save the group, but the bandits attacked anyway.

(https://i.imgur.com/i1DeZdF.jpg)

Yatakan said that the Old Eagles raided the Ram settlement, killing many. Some new immigrants decided to settle elsewhere as a result.

(https://i.imgur.com/vqRSAGZ.jpg)

Ayvtu reported that our food situation is dire. However, the only choice would be to slaughter our cattle, which would be even worse in the end. We decided to pray to the gods and hope for the best.

(https://i.imgur.com/wyTI24I.jpg)

Elves asked us to perform a restorative ritual. We asked for valuables. We struck the deal. We performed an earth magic ritual to bless the elves. We saw the elves become greener, and they pronounced themselves satisfied with the trade.

(https://i.imgur.com/zyvnDXm.jpg)

The Orvisi stole 20 cows.

Henedra's foraging party was confronted by elves. She talked to them about Cenala. At first they didn't believe her. Then they thought it was some sort of "meat people" joke. They did give her some food.

(https://i.imgur.com/2lBr90G.jpg)

Brilliant Hoof shamans wanted to trade for our Whistling Wind spirit. We declined. They thanked us for our attention and departed.

(https://i.imgur.com/rt4Gf0Q.jpg)

We sent Derenei to the Blue Crests to try to exchange treasures with them. She traded the Stone of Mostal for their Bowl of Healing Smoke.

We asked the Old Eagles to offer a gift on our behalf to the Shining Blossom clan. The Shining Blossoms refused to accept it, let alone end their feud.

(https://i.imgur.com/gZjChyZ.jpg)

Lyafor, who left us ten years ago as a young man imbued with fire magic, returned to us, mighty but a little mad. He offered to lay low one of our foes, all by himself. As he wished, we sent him by himself to fight one of our foes. We chose the Varlevings. Soon we heard of the great carnage he wrought, before being cut down himself. Half of their elite warriors, and many others besides, breathed their last that day, dead at the hands of a great Elmali hero.

(https://i.imgur.com/j3JTKJJ.jpg)

The Shining Blossoms raided us. Jade Colt forces appeared to launch a surprise flanking attack against our foes. Yatakan called Elmal's blessing upon them. Elmal imbued the Jade Colt weapons with solar light. They fought with vigor against the Shining Blossoms, and so did we. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and their survivors left without looting us. Insinor, who was rescued from the Black Eel as a baby, distinguished himself in the fighting.

(https://i.imgur.com/f4KIrim.jpg)

It is Sacred Time again and our magic is still low. The herds are still low, but did we not lose as much as we feared. At least, the seers predict that next year will be good for foraging. To help with that, we put some magic into Wilds.

(https://i.imgur.com/XTnKNss.jpg)

Orala's Year 24

Our seers predicted that the foragers would find plentiful food this year. We should do some of that.

Our clan circle member Henedra's ability to provide food was acknowledged to be of heroic level. Henedra spoke to the circle, telling us about some strange sounds from the sky reportedly heard by some herders. The sound of the gods fighting, perhaps? Henedra also said that our fields are beginning to be exhausted. We should do something about that.

(https://i.imgur.com/1WmEsWu.jpg)

Afterwards, Angakon reported that the Yellowhills, despite being very poor, gave a large gift to the Blue Crests (the Pure Horse clan) as a result of a vision from Gamari. We received no such visions, and certainly couldn't afford to give such a gift anyway!

(https://i.imgur.com/ebUzQ0r.jpg)

The Nordon family, though small, still deserves a representation on the clan circle. We decided to remove Eleen from the circle and replace her with Derenei, who has served the clan for many years. Derenei is older, but is a renowned negotiator and, at the moment, the only suitable noble from the Nordon family.

Taking Henedra's advice to heart, we cleared fields and held a ceremony for the Barley Goddess and Earth Mother. Henedra said that our fields should do better now.

(https://i.imgur.com/JmRdDgC.jpg)

The Ram Killer clan wanted our help with a ritual that would give substance to the ghosts of Elempur, who would then attack the Jernelthi. Our magic is nonexistent, but Yatakan said that our shamans could conduct minimal rituals in order to not spend any. We promised that our shamans would take part. The shamans pronounced the ritual successful. They could sense a great host of Elempurite shades gaining substance and howling their way to Jernelthi lands. Soon we heard that our targets had suffered a terrible blow. Later, though, the Jernelthi apparently used a divination to discover our involvement, so now they hate us too.

(https://i.imgur.com/9RvHH84.jpg)

It's Fire Season and we have not raided for a while. Some clans are already losing respect for us. We want more cows, so first we staged a herd raid against the Varlevings, the Ram clan across the river. We were successful and stole 13 cows from the Varlevings.

Emboldened, we raided the Varlevings again, now in force. We were spotted, but still the forces were fairly equal. Just as the Varlevings sent a herald, we began shouting war cries, and they were greatly intimidated; their herald turned and ran. We then charged, hitting the enemy before they could complete their war rituals. There was fierce fighting, but we were fiercer. We drove the Varlevings from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands.

(https://i.imgur.com/m5fsQNn.jpg)

Through messengers, the Varlevings accused us of cursing them. We conducted a divination to learn the truth. In the story tent our spinning priests saw that the Paral-Uni were the guilty clan. We sent the Gryphons to tell them the Paral-Uni did it. The messengers departed. When they returned, they told us that they still did not believe us. The Varlevings would spread word not only of our use of curses, but our slanderous attempt to shift blame for them. Well, another clan that hates us.

(https://i.imgur.com/9J1TtR9.jpg)

We had Ayoga lead foraging parties, but unfortunately good omens did not translate into good fortune. Ayoga found nothing useful.

We heard that the Brighteyes clan hated us. Our leaders said this should make our people proud. Our people seemed to take this well, with clan mood improving.

(https://i.imgur.com/D05QiiC.jpg)

We sacrificed to Zarlen, who finally revealed to us his first blessing, Safe Travel. This should help prevent ambushes against our parties.

Henedra's foraging party in the northern woods was confronted by elves. She talked to them about Cenala. They didn't respond. Henedra ignored them and continued foraging. She did find some seed pods and tubers, which would be enough for at least a few weeks.

We were raided by the Trolls. They slipped past our patrols and we could only muster a smaller force. We tried to skirmish, but our bows were dismayed by the trolls' drumming. While maneuvering into position, the trolls shot slingstones at us with deadly precision. The fighting went badly. Jereno felled one troll and saw two others about to pull Dunradin apart and eat him. Jereno rode over to engage them hand-to-hand. Shrugging off his blows, the trolls bashed Jereno from his horse. They commenced to eat Jereno, Dunradin, and the horse besides. The horror of this sight sapped our will. Trolls surged at us. We were driven from the battlefield and looted. They seized the Mighty Whooping Rattle. They also ate a lot of our cows. Damn it! We are really having the worst luck with our herds.

(https://i.imgur.com/OOXWFM8.jpg)

With Jereno dead, we had to choose a new member of the clan circle from the Dasano family. Our choice was young Josadivus, a worshipper of Elmal. He is not yet amazingly skilled at anything but farming and herding, but hopefully he will improve in time.

(https://i.imgur.com/3YDq8B3.jpg)

A great elk asked us to stop hunting for two years, promising better hunting for the four years after that. Although our food situation would not be improved by no hunting, we agreed, hoping to benefit in the future. After all, we already had a similar bargain in our early years here. Our hunters pledged to zealously uphold the bargain.

(https://i.imgur.com/99P8bIM.jpg)

We were raided by the Shining Blossoms. We spotted them in time and gathered all our warriors. Yatakan said that their chief was noted for his caution, and their clan of course still fears us. We began skirmishing, but the Shining Blossoms quickly rushed us. Endarei saw Yatakan suffer a terrible injury, as his throat got slashed open. Endarei rode alone to Yatakan's side under the protection of Erissa's banner. The Shining Blossoms, known for impiety, fired on her nonetheless. They struck her with an arrow, wounding her. Orala rallied our side to furious wrath. We would use our hatred of these despicable foes to destroy them. Our warriors fought with berserk fury and prevailed, inflicting many casualties. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and their survivors left without looting us. Yatakan and Endarei were taken home for healing.

(https://i.imgur.com/JdG2ZKs.jpg)

Revenge! We sent a small party to raid the Shining Blossoms' herds. With many of their warriors wounded, we slipped past their patrols and stole 22 cows from them. Take that, you bastards!

Sacred Time has arrived. Our herds have actually remained stable, but that was only due to our successful cattle raids this year; a lot of cows were eaten by trolls. We are also no longer known for being bullies, but instead are now famous for our skilled and heroic clansfolk. The Gods War still rages, so our magic is low. We put it into Diplomacy, Pastures, and War, to help with our herds as well as manage relations and fight better in the coming year.

(https://i.imgur.com/kjiekZy.jpg)

Orala's Year 25

It was predicted that many children would be born this year. Eleen also told the circle that the Brilliant Hoofs received a visit from a star, showing divine favor. In the meantime, Derenei visited several clans in the valley, telling them about our exploration (such as it is). Hopefully this will pave the way towards shared knowledge and better relations.

Dwarves came to trade for our cows. We told them we did not wish to trade, as our herds are so low. They said this was our prerogative as vermin infesting the World Machine. The people were glad we did not truckle to them.

(https://i.imgur.com/PFuJf8F.jpg)

Yatakan led the clan's warriors in mounted drill to better prepare them for combat. Many, however, claimed that they were too busy to attend. Also, four new warriors were promoted.

The Lastralings raided us. We spotted them, but were still outnumbered. They conducted a ritual causing winds to blow strongly against us. They then managed to outmaneuver us and win. We were driven from the battlefield and plundered. They plundered the Bowl of Healing Smoke. Well, our combat preparations so far did not work out very well!

(https://i.imgur.com/RAuRBYv.jpg)

We now have lots of wounded people, so Endarei conducted a sacrifice to Erissa. Mercifully, the goddess healed 37 of our wounded.

Soon after, the Varlevings raided us, but we spotted them also. We performed the Battle Glow ritual, while the enemy also performed their magic, causing the winds to pick up. We charged and fought fiercely, and this time managed to counter their advance. We drove the Varlevings off, and their survivors left without plundering us. Still, we suffered a few deaths yet again.

The Gryphon clan saw our troubles and offered help. They gave us 23 cows. We agreed that we owed them a favor.

(https://i.imgur.com/wzyBNNg.jpg)

Yatakan promoted four more warriors to help with our depleting force.

Hesten of the Dasano family found an honor belt dropped by fleeing bandits. We really do not want more clans disliking us, so we returned the belt to the Yellowhill clan. Doren went to deliver it, with Hesten leading an escort for safety. The Yellowhills thanked us. The family of the noble who had lost the belt sang us a song of praise, and gifted us with everlasting blossoms.

(https://i.imgur.com/mlXY8HA.jpg)

Our Old Eagle allies sought our aid in a mission against Vestantes raiders from the southern Ram kingdoms. We sacrificed to Elmal on their behalf. In our temple to Elmal our priests whirled in warlike fashion, leaping to Elmal's side. He said he would grant aid to the Old Eagles. Soon we heard that they fared poorly against the raiders. The Vestantes had drawn on the barbaric power of their own gods. Oh well.

(https://i.imgur.com/b8ak2GY.jpg)

We sent Angakon with gifts to the Paral-Uni, one of those Wheels clans who are pretty hostile to us. They praised the gifts, but still think poorly of us. Well, baby steps and all that.

The Old Eagles wanted our help fighting scorpion folk. We said we would help. Hesten took ten warriors and joined the hunting party, but could not find the scorpion folk. But neither could the Old Eagles. We were relieved, and hoped the scorpions had moved on. The Old Eagles are really bothering us with all these requests lately! Well, they are our allies and we'd rather keep them that way.

(https://i.imgur.com/eJgAZyw.jpg)

We sent a herd raid against the Varlevings but had to abandon it because they spotted us. No new cows for us!

It's Sacred Time again. Our herds still remain more or less stable, though we would really like them to grow! Our clan is actually losing people, even. At least the Gods' War seems to have ended, so our magic is better this year. We put some in War to help in case of fighting, but also some more in Diplomacy. Hopefully this year we can mend some relations with other clans. We will also try to explore a bit, and reserve some magic to help with that.

(https://i.imgur.com/NY4sykC.jpg)

People still reading this? :P

Quote from: Solmyr on January 08, 2020, 04:37:26 AM
People still reading this? :P

Yes.  Person, anyway.  Not always a lot to say though - just watching how it goes.

Orala's Year 26

We predicted a bitterly cold Dark season.

We could no longer afford to maintain our shrine to Busenari. That is annoying, as it helped our herds at least a little bit. We will need to rebuild it soon.

We heard that the Paral-Un clan had recruited many warriors. Too bad, as they don't like us very much.

The elders agreed that the valley was getting colder since our arrival.

(https://i.imgur.com/ieZzMRA.jpg)

Henedra led our people in foraging, but it was not very successful. The valley is indeed getting colder, and food is becoming scarce. However, we had Ayvtu give some clan magic to the Sow spirit, who agreed to help with food for the next five years.

We heard that the Rams of the Lastraling clan mocked us as weaklings. We cannot really raid in Sea Season, so we told the Ram Killers that they ought to raid the Lastralings. The Old Eagles thanked us for this news of their hated foes. On the way back from the Ram Killers, Angakon was attacked, but returned home with his escort.

(https://i.imgur.com/VpbZ9We.jpg)

Come Fire Season, we did raid the Lastralings. Sadly, we were unable to penetrate their defenses. We were driven off and had no opportunity to obtain booty.

Young Beren befriended another boy with the same name, from the Yellowhill clan. The two suggested that the other boy should live with us for a year of training. We asked the other boy's clan. The Yellowhills agreed that this would motivate both boys to excel. They foresaw a great destiny for him, and wished him to be strong, and happy.

(https://i.imgur.com/71BmIdb.jpg)

We were raided by the Shining Blossoms, who slipped past our patrol and so managed to outnumber out defenders greatly. Ayvtu slew an enemy noble and was surrounded by enemy Bows. Ayvtu rode one of them down, galloping to rejoin her comrades. After fierce fighting, we drove the Shining Blossoms off, and were happy to have survived the battle. Unfortunately, we sustained some casualties.

We learned that many emissaries were visiting the Jernelthi. Our priests learned that there would be a kite-flying festival. We couldn't interest other Riders in a hawking competition. Not long after, we heard that the Jernelthi kite festival had been a big success. Every Ram clan was blessed by Vingkot, their founding demigod.

(https://i.imgur.com/Xsj2Afw.jpg)

Yatakan reported that the Old Eagles, the Ram Killer clan, waged a large battle against the Rams and lost. They blame us for their failure, for some reason. Bah.

We sent Angakon with gifts to the Mor-Kagini. They are one of the Wheel clans that like us, and were happy to receive our emissary. We have now sent an emissary to every Wheel clan in the valley, which should further help our diplomacy.

(https://i.imgur.com/XhZSzQx.jpg)

Chief Hyarnan of the Jade Colts sent word that we could consider a favor paid if we told him about Eveltan of the Old Eagles. They asked us if Eveltan was miserly or generous. We said it depended on the situation. A few days later, they returned to thank us for the information, which had steered them right. They said we could consider our favor paid in full. It had aided them so well, in fact, that they further rewarded us with two horses.

(https://i.imgur.com/xNm8AbC.jpg)

We had Derenei oversee crafting of fine ritual masks from ebony, resulting in a profit of 34 goods. This should give us some spending ability for a while.

The Dark Season was indeed very cold and icy, and we lost several cows and horses to both cold and predators.

Derenei led a ritual to Ekarna, learning the Understanding blessing. This helps our dealings with foreigners.

Wheels of the Ar-Tarima clan asked one of us to take the enemy role when they performed the Rogoros Four Trader ritual. We said we would do it for 30 cows, which was more than they were offering. They didn't like it, but they agreed. Just in case something would go wrong, we chose Endarei to act in their ritual, as she is expendable. Endarei watched as one of their nobles took the role of Samnal's son Rogoros and enacted the Rogoros Four Trader ritual. Endarei submitted to role of ceremonial villain, showing Rider spirit even though her defeat was foreordained. Her fervor somewhat reduced the magic loss we would suffer for doing this. Their officiant returned exultant from the Gods War. The Ar-Tarimae would have strong trade relations as a result of their magical efforts. We took our cows and returned home as they rode around in celebration.

(https://i.imgur.com/Je9vagy.jpg)

Come Storm Season, we sent young Hesten with a party of explorers, to prove himself. They traveled northwest past the Gryphon lands. We also sent a foraging expedition to the northern woods. Also, Henedra said that the great elk was true to his word, and our woods are teeming with hunting game.

Paral-Un charioteers blinded Lankarn, one of our young warriors. We are in no shape to raid the Paral-Uni, but there is no reason we could not grant Lankarn's request. We conducted the skyrise ritual. Many called for the ritual to be stopped when they felt the flame. Lankarn however walked onto the pyre platform unflinching. He said he would praise us to the gods, when he met them. That night we saw a briefly shining new star in the sky. This was Lankarn's entry to the company of Elmal. The people rejoiced.

(https://i.imgur.com/BfAi1cd.jpg)

It is once again Sacred Time. Not a great year for us, as the food situation is still very bad and our herds are not growing much. The priests said that traveling to the Otherworld will be risky next year, so we will not be doing any rituals. We put magic to help with the usual things, Wilds epsecially to take advantage of better hunting.

(https://i.imgur.com/hkKjLxG.jpg)

I am enjoying this greatly.

Orala's Year 27

Hesten returned from his exploration mission. He said that he did not find anything of note in the area he explored, but on the return trip the party was attacked by bandits. In the first moments of combat, four warriors died. The rest of them bolted away. We lost the horses of the dead, as well as the goods and equipment they carried. Well, Hesten's first mission is not promising.

(https://i.imgur.com/QQsxpjt.jpg)

We heard that the Ku-Rander clan was visited by the Black Death. We hope the plague won't spread to us.

Eleen oversaw our artisans crafting exquisite ivory statuettes, altogether worth 35 cows.

Meanwhile, Ayvtu keeps reminding us that our food situation is dire. There's not a lot we can do about it right now, though. We did send Derenei to buy some food from the Brilliant Hoofs clan.

Plant people attacked our fields, blighting our crops. As if we need more troubles with our food! We sacrificed to Hyalor at our vine-covered shrine. The priests received clear visions that the elves would not bother us, at least for a while.

(https://i.imgur.com/fk3e10c.jpg)

Old Eagle emissaries came to discuss how the world was getting colder. We agreed, but there is not much to be done. We don't have the wealth for a sacrifice, and our relations are such that any Rider kingdom is out of the question. We were noncommittal, and the Old Eagles accepted it.

(https://i.imgur.com/qoUf6B5.jpg)

Fire Season was a disaster for our clan. We were hit by two cattle raids: the Lastralings stole 18 cows and the Blue Crests stole 29 cows. Then starvation hit, with many dying and many more becoming sick. Is this the beginning of the end for our clan?

(https://i.imgur.com/U2Nbiqx.jpg)

Henedra led our hunters in search of a new hunting ground. At last, she was successful! We found a new area where game was plentiful, likely to last us for a year. Maybe we should thank that great elk!

Derenei also traded with the Brilliant Hoofs. They took an exorbitant amount of goods for less than a season's worth of foods. Bastards are profiting from our misfortune!

Yatakan said that the other Beren, friend to our own Beren, has returned to his clan, the Yellowhills. He was happy and will commend us to his people.

The Gryphons called in a favor we owed them, asking for 17 cows. This was less than would normally be customary. Not a great time to be giving away cows, but we don't want to go against tradition. We gave them what they asked. They thanked us and departed.

Bardalor (remember him?) led a foraging party to the northwest and encountered a strange fairy. He decided to offer it some clan magic, and it proved the right decision. The fairy led the party to a grove full of nuts! Bardalor actually managed to help the clan greatly this time.

(https://i.imgur.com/xcPCsjw.jpg)

Back home. Endarei led a sacrifice to Erissa to heal some of our sick.

Hesten's exploratory mission to the northern mountains came upon Rams about to ambush dwarves. Hesten had to quickly decide what to do. He warned the dwarves. At first, the dwarves looked confused, ready to fire their crossbows at us. Then the Rams, seeing that two foes flanked them, fled, and the dwarves understood. Their leader thanked us. "You have protected our home from greedy Rams, who say this mountain belongs to Orlanth, merely because his clouds enshroud it." They gifted us with iron beads worth seven cows. Hesten did better with this one!

(https://i.imgur.com/1QoNc5a.jpg)

The Flint Hearts wanted to hire some of our elite warriors as mercenaries, to defend against a Brighteyes attack. We agreed, since we certainly want more cows as payment. We sent four warriors to help the Flint Hearts. Later we heard that the attack did not occur, and so the warriors returned home with five cows in tow.

(https://i.imgur.com/Ajls110.jpg)

Outlaws attacked our exploration party in the clan lands. Derenei blustered and shouted at the outlaws, driving them off. She did not find anything of note, though.

We were raided by the Shining Blossoms. The Shining Blossom clan hero, Inrana, charged us, horse wreathed in divine flame. Yatakan asked Elmal to wreathe his steed in flame. Elmal answered the call. Yatakan met Inrana's charge head-on. Sky fire leapt between the two heroes' horses as they fought. When it was all over, it was Inrana who fell from horseback, wounded. Her fellows groaned in disbelief. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and were happy to have survived the battle. Luckily, there weren't many casualties on our side, and Yatakan proved that he has Elmal's favor.

(https://i.imgur.com/TDMAage.jpg)

People complained of a circle member, Josadivus, and his frequent recourse to lawsuits. Josadivus's fellow councilors asked him to refrain from further requests for judgment. Josadivus admitted that his behavior had been excessive and promised to stop.

(https://i.imgur.com/rHXZJ6r.jpg)

We sent a herd raid against the Ar-Tarimae, but were spotted. We charged at them, and their footmen could not withdraw in good order. We drove the Ar-Tarimae from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their herds, taking eight cows and two horses.

Ayoga and her party never returned from a foraging expedition to the north. It has been a year, so we have to pronounce them dead. Ugh.

We sent Derenei to the Ku-Randeri to try to exchange treasures with them. They offered us the Reverberant Drum, but at the moment we need silver more. We sold them the Master Sword for 41 cows worth of goods.

Sacred Time is upon us. Our herds took a dive again, which is bad. I wonder if we can ever get out of this poverty. This time, our magic is plentiful, and we spend it liberally on everything that could possibly help us. We especially want to maintain our wealth, our food, and our herds. We also lost people to starvation, but the seers say that many new children will be born next year. I don't know how we will feed them, though!

(https://i.imgur.com/geAZe0D.jpg)

Orala's Year 28

Orala tells us about the Brilliant Hoof clan's new unpredictable chieftain. It's a tradition with them.

(https://i.imgur.com/rWL5wGI.jpg)

Meanwhile, Autronos of the Char-Orisa clan has grown into a fine young man. The Char-Orisa actually like us, maybe we should ally with them.

(https://i.imgur.com/bhRYiww.jpg)

Bandits are becoming a problem lately. Derenei led a party to root them out, finding and killing many.

We sent Angakon to try and resolve the feud with the Shining Blossoms. They don't sell slaves and accept the Cenala revelation, just like us, so it would be good to make peace with them. As soon as they saw Angakon's peace delegation, the Shining Blossoms attacked it. Outnumbered, Angakon called for an immediate retreat. The delegation escort killed a few Shining Blossoms in the process. Though Angakon proved himself in a crisis, peace with the Shining Blossom clan now lay even further away.

A Ram girl, Karendra, ran away from her clan and was found in scandalous embrace with one of our young men, Parastak. Our clan is starting to buckle tradition, so we decided to be merciful this time and exiled them from our lands. They left together.

(https://i.imgur.com/SIpfTVM.jpg)

Yatakan said that we should intimidate the Shining Blossoms into making peace with us. We raided the Shining Blossoms and eluded their patrols. After long and fierce fighting, we drove the Shining Blossoms from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands.

(https://i.imgur.com/7qXqGK9.jpg)

We were raided by the Varlevings. They eluded our patrols and we had to fight outnumbered. We were driven from the battlefield and looted, though thankfully we were able to withdraw without significant casualties.

(https://i.imgur.com/NpUafNq.jpg)

Traders from the Blue Crest clan arrived, wanting to purchase all our beer for the next seven years. We actually need the silver right away, so Derenei negotiated to receive 40 cows worth of goods from the Blue Crests. More importantly, the Blue Crests no longer hate us so much!

The wandering Starmane clan sought permission to briefly pasture their cattle on our lands, then keep on going. We asked them for cows and they gave us four sleek calves. They tarried for a brief while, proving a retiring lot. They also said that the world was growing colder everywhere.

(https://i.imgur.com/gZNvk0J.jpg)

The Ram girl who seduced one of your men returned to her clan. The man apparently died. Oh well, at least nothing bad came of it.

(https://i.imgur.com/HYx2Hjw.jpg)

Gryphons wanted to stage a rite in our temple, petitioning Elmal to erect a fiery shield against demon-men from Alkoth. We agreed, but asked for compensation. We want cows, of course. Their priests whirled in our temple. Afterwards they said Elmal had granted the boon they asked for.

(https://i.imgur.com/FBnFZ5k.jpg)

We sent a delegation to the Shining Blossoms again, this time taking 20 swords as an escort to better show our strength. It still did not go well. As soon as they saw Angakon's peace delegation, the Shining Blossoms attacked it. We hit the trail but not before one of Angakon's escort suffered injuries. Well then, war it is.

When ravens nested on our spirit rocks, shamans said it would be a good time for a Raven Festival. We sent hunters to seize a captive. They crept around the Shining Blossom clan lands but found no chance to grab a suitable captive unawares. However they did come upon a herder of the Jade Colt clan, taking him instead. The festival brought cheer to the people, especially when we used the captive for target practice and left his corpse for the ravens. Let's hope the Jade Colts won't hate us too much for it.

(https://i.imgur.com/27bqHbF.jpg)

Eleen visited various clans, sharing our recent explorations, most importantly about the Ram ambush of the dwarves we witnessed in the Imther Mountains. The Paral-Uni told us about a secluded lake in Rams lands.

(https://i.imgur.com/bsQ1jEz.jpg)

Derenei led a sacrifice to Ekarna, who revealed his Market blessing. The priests at our temple will now pray for it, helping our market make a profit.

The elder Chanla wanted us to send a shaman on a spirit journey to confirm that her dream about ice receding from the Golden City was true. The circle gave her permission, but warned people not to expect too much. The people did not want to hear anything but support for Chanla's vision. The shaman Chanla chose went into trance. He rode north in spirit form on a fiery horse. When he returned to ordinary awareness, he shook his head sadly. Nivorah lay beneath impenetrable ice, crushed beyond recognition. Still, Orala said that we should not give up hope, as the city was destroyed through combined actions of gods and men, and thus may yet be restored in the same way.

(https://i.imgur.com/MKc3ZOz.jpg)

The Shining Blossoms raided us, and our patrols spotted them. This time, we were aiming to kill as many of them as possible. We charged at them and fought fiercely, and it was soon over. We drove the Shining Blossoms off, and their survivors left without looting us.

(https://i.imgur.com/DCoHaWb.jpg)

Derenei led a caravan to trade with the Paral-Uni. They don't like us much, but were still willing to trade. Derenei's silver tongue managed to get us an excellent deal, as she bought 52 cows for only 40 cows worth of goods. With this, we have sent a caravan to every Wheel clan in the valley, and will be able to create another permanent trade route.

We spotted a herd raid by the Ar-Tarimae. Yatakan said that their chief was known for his caution, so we charged right at them. After we killed or wounded most of them, they decided not to stick around and withdrew without plundering our land.

Ayvtu became pregnant, inviting the mockery of rival clans. We promised to raid the first clan that dared mock her. This vow roused the people from worry to a healthy belligerence.

(https://i.imgur.com/qAS90ki.jpg)

It's Sacred Time again. Amazingly, this year went pretty well! Our herds are growing again. Let us hope this trend continues. We've put magic into various important things to keep up the growth.

(https://i.imgur.com/06W6guT.jpg)

Thanks again for creating this.  It's an interesting tale, and I'm glad you kept at it in spite of the string of bad luck (which made for a better story, IMO, though I hate it when it happens to me in games).

Orala's Year 29

The oracles heard whispers in a strange language, but could not make out the meaning. Derenei told us that there were other strange tidings afoot: we keep hearing some sort of creaking or groaning from the sky - not thunder, but something else ominous. Dalasha, meanwhile, had a troubling dream, in which she saw our lands ruled by dragons, dragon-men, and men who had the tongues of dragons; even the clouds and the sun in the sky were dragons. These are interesting times.

We need more trade goods, and could have another permanent trade route. Let's use the fact that the Char-Orisa clan like us. Derenei traveled there and convinced the Char-Orisa to create a new trading route.

A chasm opened up in our pasture land. We don't have much magic to spend on rituals, and redistributing land sounds like a way to induce tensions between the families. So we just posted some herders to watch the hole.

(https://i.imgur.com/H4pMJSD.jpg)

Bandits are again a larger problem in the valley, so Derenei led some warriors to search for them, although the search was fruitless. Meanwhile, Henedra reports that our leading farmers noted that our fields were starting to show signs of exhaustion. And Ayvtu says that while our food stocks are adequate at the moment, they could be depleted in the coming year, so we'll have to watch the situation.

With Fire Season it is time to raid. Let's hit the Shining Blossoms again! We eluded their patrols and outnumbered them. As before, Yatakan noted that they are very cautious and may be vulnerable to a determined attack. We performed the Battle Glow ritual and charged! They tried to retreat, but we pursued relentlessly. In the heat of battle, Yatakan saw that the enemy had dropped an apparent magic weapon. Yatakan fought his way to it. He dealt hard blows to those who stood in the way. He snatched up the weapon, later identified as the Hollow Spear, a magical treasure that helps us prevail in battle. Yatakan then ordered a risky attack and we pushed forward as the enemy tried to conserve their strength. We drove the Shining Blossoms from the battlefield, and were able to plunder their lands. We captured 27 cows (yay!) and one horse. Casualties were light all around, with only one of our raiders killed and none wounded.

(https://i.imgur.com/FxmZ6dQ.jpg)

Dwarves prowled our pastures. We asked them to close the sinkhole and leave. They said that we were pests who engaged in disruptive vibration. And that they owned the land below our feet. Ergo, to fulfill our requests was not correct. Attacking the dwarves sounds dangerous, so we waited for them to leave. Eventually they did, disappearing down into the sinkhole. Unfortunately, it is still open, causing stress to our pasture land.

(https://i.imgur.com/byhMLMR.jpg)

We conducted a herd raid and stole 24 cows from the Ar-Tarimae.

The Char-Orisa clan mocked us because Ayvtu became pregnant outside of marriage. We had promised to raid the first clan who disrespected her. This is unfortunate, as the Char-Orisa like us and we are their trading partners. Why did they have to mock us?!

We sent Angakon with gifts to the Varlevings. They were pleased, but still think poorly of us. However, this is the start of our diplomatic contacts with the Ram clans.

Mischief spirits bewitched Jaranak and made off with 21 of our cows. We don't have the magic for a divination and we don't want to upset our neighbors by interrogating them about this. The circle urged people to accept the loss. The people agreed that they should not let the actions of capricious spirits govern their mood.

(https://i.imgur.com/nLgIRBL.jpg)

Ayvtu gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, Aniga. Elmal devotees say that the child is also blessed with Elmal's fires.

Hesten went to explore lands to the west, near the Oslira River. Outlaws attacked our exploration party in the west. Hesten attacked, but was wounded and had to return home. So far, Hesten's exploration missions have failed more often than not. Hopefully he will improve!

Henedra led the people in clearing our fields. Some grumbled about the hard work, but eventually it was done. We cleared fields and held a ceremony for the Barley Goddess and Earth Mother.

Gryphon and Brilliant Hoof delegations arrived to demand redress after Bardalor promised each he would lay a trickster curse on the other. Well, Bardalor keeps delivering in his own trickster ways. We do want more cows, but we also don't want to upset too many people. We returned cows only to the Gryphons, our allies. The Brilliant Hoofs took this badly, of course, but not as badly as we feared. We let the matter rest with Bardalor.

(https://i.imgur.com/rfDPrvl.jpg)

Ayvtu led a sacrifice to Zarlen, learning his Pathfinder blessing. This should help our explorers, hopefully.

Though it's not great, we did make a promise to Ayvtu about raiding the first clan that mocked her. So we sent a raid against the Char-Orisa. We eluded their patrols and outnumbered them slightly; Yatakan also said that their chief was noted for caution. The Char-Orisa sent out a herald, who taunted us. We responded to their taunts with our own. Neither side was shaken, though. We finished the Battle Glow ritual and charged, though some of our warriors seemed nervous from the sound of Char-Orisa war bells. We fought fiercely, but their front rank held, letting those in reserve rest a little. They held their ground and we could not break them. We were driven off and had no opportunity to plunder them. At least the casualties were very light; only one of ours wounded, while three of theirs were killed and three wounded. Hopefully this raid will satisfy Ayvtu.

(https://i.imgur.com/g5CYsRE.jpg)

Traders from the southern Vestantes kingdom of Rams wanted to trade for one of our treasures. They offered 60 cows worth of goods, which was very tempting! We decided to offer them the Shining Sun Mask, which brings courage to the fearful. Hopefully we won't be too fearful without it. They found the trade satisfactory.

(https://i.imgur.com/CLg4m8g.jpg)

Ayvtu conducted a sacrifice to Inilla, learning her Rootle blessing. This can help our foragers find food, which may be necessary again soon.

The Ar-Tarimae stole 23 cows in a herd raid. Oh well, at least it's one less than we stole from them in Fire Season!

Dalasha died of old age. She was one of our clan's fine magicians.

Sacred Time is upon us! The clan has done reasonably well, and our herds are a little bigger than they were a year ago. Our food stocks are also reasonable. And we've even got plenty of trade goods! Our magic is high, so we use it on many important things to support our clan. Most notably, priests say that Zarlen wants us to go exploring next year, so we devote some magic to that. Seems learning his Pathfinder blessings was just at the right time! We must obtain it before sending out an exploration party.

(https://i.imgur.com/SCV39X7.jpg)

With Orala's thirtieth year as chieftain of Swift Mare clan starting, it is time to take a short survey of the clan's situation and the surrounding world.

(https://i.imgur.com/YsBA8zF.jpg)

The clan is fairly small, with 360 people of whom half are children. Our 29 swordsmen are nonetheless a large force. The clan's morale is a bit shaky, most recently due to hard work on clearing the fields. The clan circle includes several very old people, but also some young newcomers.

(https://i.imgur.com/FeznOyL.jpg)

The Akot family is represented only by chieftain Orala herself, although young Beren the Tall is set to reach adulthood within the year. Orala has been fairly unremarkable as chieftain, having achieved no great deeds of acclaim. However, her leadership has kept the people together through harsh times, and she continues to enjoy support for her position.

(https://i.imgur.com/3n4oWa4.jpg)

The Dasano family, on the other hand, has grown quite large. Since the death of Jereno a few years ago, Josadivus has taken his place on the circle, and other nobles of the family are mostly quite young. Of note is Hesten, a worshipper of Zarlen who has become our official explorer (though his success has been mixed so far).

(https://i.imgur.com/hHpByae.jpg)

The Erkent family has long enjoyed the leadership of Angakon, our main diplomat. Recently, young Doren has also begun to take on some diplomatic duties.

(https://i.imgur.com/974ZPer.jpg)

The Karent family is dominated by two people. The Raven shaman Bardalor, who was removed from the circle years ago, still occasionally gets up to his tricks. His replacement, Henedra, is a farmer and forager with decades of experience.

(https://i.imgur.com/ZsTMJey.jpg)

The Nordon family is firmly under the rule of its matriarch Derenei. Despite her years, she still possesses a silver tongue as our chief trader, and is pretty good at many other things.

(https://i.imgur.com/IcACTxz.jpg)

The Parnt family is represented by three women. Eleen was our chief trader before Derenei and is still quite good at it. Ayvtu is one of the fire-blessed children and is the clan's premier magician. There is also Tolya, another up-and-coming magician with ambitions to make us a Pure Horse clan.

(https://i.imgur.com/W9q2Ss6.jpg)

Finally, the Zarent family includes Elindrai, another former circle member who was not particularly good. There is also Yatakan, another of the fire-blessed children and our excellent warleader since the untimely death of Churka.

(https://i.imgur.com/lV50ahi.jpg)

Our clan's wealth is middling, altough with the recent expansion of trade we are running more of a profit. Our herds are, unfortunately, still quite small. We also have several magical treasures: Bowl of Unity rewards us for openness to new ways, Clay Mask helps us communicate with spirits and occasionally gives us magic, Foaling Blanket helps our mares give birth, Helm of Elmal helps followers of the god in various ways, Hollow Spear can help us in battle, and Storm God Bone helps us against Rams.

(https://i.imgur.com/ymz6ZR4.jpg)

In our clan stead, we have temples to Elmal and Ekarna, helping our dual focus on fighting and trade. We also have a vine-covered shrine to our people's forefather Hyalor (and his daughter Cenala), as well as shrines to the cow goddess Busenari, the earth mother Nyalda, and the grain goddess Pela. We've also learned many blessings of other gods, but still don't know much of Dostal, Gamari, Osara, Relandar, or Uryarda.

(https://i.imgur.com/HETymaG.jpg)

Finally, here is the map of the valley as we know it. We have some enemies among nearby clans, most notably the Shining Blossoms and (recently) the Blue Crests. Our allies are the Gryphons and the Old Eagles. We have not explored as much as we would like, but will try to do so a bit more in the future.

This game (along with KoDP) is 15% off on Steam for 3 more hours, btw.