Dominion The Bryn'adûl | Traedaris, Home to the adverse

[Primal Architect]

The Bryn'adûl | Traedaris, home to the adverse​

The planet Traedaris, home to the Ungulloi. A world shrouded in an atmosphere of methane and turbulent electromagnetic storms, a world recently brought into the fold by the Bryn'adûl. The world was one of intense cold, a challenge for any adventuring Baedurion or Risen-Sraelvun. The Ungulloi have reported sightings of various strange beasts, and have invited the other species of the Bryn'adûl to help in hunting the new beasts and learning more about the Ungulloi as a species.

The Ungulloi are very different to us, their world is one of a harsh reality that constantly reminds them of their short comings. Their automatons help them manage their physical weaknesses, their coal and fossil based energy sources helping the Ungulloi stay warm. Learn of our brethren, do not hate them for their differences.

|OBJECTIVES|
​

Traversal of the Ungulloi
The Ungulloi are still transitioning from Ungarat to Targarat, assist them in this trnasitional peroid and inspect the automatons of the Ungulloi. Understand them.

Hunter's Moon
A journey for any who wish to test themselves. Brave the harsh weather of this planet, search for the strange and magnificent creatures of this strange new world.

Study
Out on the vicious pack-ice, ancient wooden cities of long since dead civilisations of Ungulloi remain in ruin. Travel here, record the history of our adopted kin.

 

[Sethrak]

Post: 1
Objective: Traversal of the Ungulloi
Tags: To be Decided



Cowardly, Industrial, and Cunning. These are the words used to describe the Ungolloi to most Drael. Sethrak, despite being one of the more accepting Drael and even proclaiming himself the defender of all the allied races, was skeptical. That's why he was here, on Traedaris, home of the Ungulloi. He wanted to know his allies better, and once he knew them he would teach all Warlocks about his experience. Today he would be helping the little beings with their journey from their capital territory-a collection of cities-to the new Bryn Super-construct.

During this journey it was expected that there would be many hardships, from difficult terrain, to hostile creatures, to disputes between Drael and Ungulloi. Sethrak would help, naturally, but he wanted to see how his allies handled situations. Other than in battle, where he was too busy to truly observe them, he hadn't seen them in action yet. He truly looked forward to this journey, though he knew his fellow Drael probably didn't, be it the cold or the need to assimilate.

​

Sethrak had a Val-Shae spear with him, and a Spitter bow to help traverse difficult areas, but nothing more. He currently stood among a large caravan of Ungulloi and Drael as they prepared to depart. For communication, one in every four Ungulloi was given a communication stone rather than every one of them, due to their massive population. It should suffice, and each Ungulloi with a stone could share the device if needed.

With the proper preparations made, Sethrak was ready to not only follow his new brothers, but understand them.

 

[Thova 'Mdanam]

Post: One
Objective: Study

The lone figure crossed the ice fields of Traedaris, the crimson cloak around its shoulders billowing behind it with each step that it took. Crimson armor underneath reflected the blazing sun overhead, and the protruding weapon hilt over his right shoulder marked the individual as a warrior. Every step was confident, uncaring of the dangers the ice fields presented. His pace was unwavering, unquestioning as he made his approach to the only location of note in this frozen hellscape. After many hours of travel, Thova 'Mdanam, Clan Leader of the 'Mdanam and Shipmaster within the Bryn'adul and Vaydralen military came to a halt.

The helmet he wore looked up slowly, glowing red eyes taking in the wooden construct before him. The city was impressive, in a rather simplistic way. Logic dictated that such a construction, with its soaring structures and domed towers should not have been able to exist in such a inhospitable location. Yet, the city had thrived at one point, testament to the endurance and intellect of the Ungulloi. Just thinking of the small, diminutive creatures set Thova's mandibles clicking together in irritation, but he reigned in his reaction. The Vaydralen were warriors, born and raised to fight for thousands of years. The Ungulloi had not been given the same chance, and while they were physically weaker and poor warriors, something every Vaydralen detested of them, Thova understood their value to the Bryn'adul. Any species that could create a thriving civilization in this frozen wilderness had something they could offer to the Great Effort.

While other Bryn'adul helped the Ungulloi prepare for their journey, Thova had set out on his own to explore the ancient cities, and unearth the ancient texts they held within. Setting off once again, the crimson warrior stepped through the waning gates of the city, his every footstep echoing in the barren remains of the urban center. Many might find it odd that the Vaydralen, warriors to the bone, held such reverence for histories and books. Thova himself found it funny at times himself, but the reasoning behind it was sound. The Vaydralen put such value in history because it told the tales of the honored dead, those who gave their lives in battle. History told of the honors a Clan had through the deeds of their ancestors. History reminded warriors of what they were fighting for, and what was expected of them.

Passing the broken skeletons of several Ungulloi, crushing ones skull beneath his foot as if it were nothing, Thova wondered what would be in the Ungulloi histories. They had to have some warriors among them, for no race could survive without defenders. They were not always as technologically advanced as they were when the Bryn'adul found them after all. Finding such records, any records in fact, would go a long way to alleviating the doubts the Vaydralen as a whole had about the species. The Vaydralen did not question the entry of the Ungulloi into the Bryn'adul Covenant, not openly. The Chieftain had made the decision, and as a warrior without equal, he had to know what was for the best. The histories Thova hoped to find here though would go a long way to quieting the mumbled doubts of his people.

After nearly an hour of traveling through the ruined city, Thova came to the steps of what he assumed to be the capital building. Give large domes topped the triangular building, each one bigger than the last, made of broken glass panes. Banners of a deeply faded green hung to the outside of the building, drifting slowly in the breeze like Thova's own cloak. Growling to himself, Thova pulled the cloak closer to him as he began to ascend the steps of the capital building. Approaching the entrance, he drew Vor'kar Tanel, the blade of his Clan, and activated it. Purple blue blades leapt to life before him, casting a steady light into the darkness ahead of the Shipmaster.

With his way visible, Thova 'Mdanam stepped into depths of the forgotten city.

 

[Osam]

Post One
Objective: Traversal

Trad.

It was a simple and straightforward enough name, something that could be uttered in the span of a single instant and condensed enough that it could be spat as easily as a derogatory swear as it could a noun. Yet, that simple four-lettered word had been what the inhabitants of Traedaris had called their greater luminary, the one hanging above them in the distant portion of the sky. The frigid air battered against the body of the Warlord as he walked, smacking uselessly against Flesh Vessel which itself utilized its in-built Quilxyn to eradicate any chill that made it within striking range.

How many Ungulloi had passed through these wretched wastes and gazed up at their accursed star and uttered horrific epithets about the celestial body that had doomed them to a frost-ridden world. How many had died due to the star's own apathy? Yet... how many would now live because it had forced them all to adapt, and to become better than they had been. Osam glanced around himself, observing the miniature Ungulloi and the way they traversed around their world, going about their work alongside automatons that sizzled and hummed.

He'd seen some of the coal veins that they'd struck deep in the planet's crust. He'd been given a tour on his first arrival to Traedaris - when he had first been appointed as Warlord over the world. The way that they spiraled and splintered throughout the planet's underground was impressive and frightening. He had spent a good portion of his life underground within the confines of super-constructs, but those had been made with careful foundation and workmanship. The same could not have been said of the haphazard coal mines that seemed like they might collapse at any moment. It was a good thing that the Draelvasier had come when they had too... coal was not an infinite product, and though they had enough for many decades still, they were fighting against a slow death.

The Hide pulsed, suckling in a breath of methane-rich air, flooding its own systems with vital atmosphere. The worm-mind too roiled, taking its portion of the breath before passing on what was needed for the hybrid. Each breath done in unison, each one stirring up pain within the Warlord's chest. He paused for a moment, leaning against the nearest wall as he felt his hearts continue to beat, one and the other. He felt tired and frailer than he had in his life. Surviving the second battle of Nar Kreeta had proven to take a wretched toll on him. If he ever recovered he would not know. Were it not for the strength of the Kraemonen, someone might've noticed, but it supplemented him with power even when he felt like he had none of his own to give.

Osam took notice of a caravan preparing to set out to their new homes... and at their lead was Warlord Sethrak . Once heretic, and very nearly Tenekbrak, and now someone of esteem. The hybrid forced himself upright, and approached his fellow leader.

"Greetings Warlord Sethrak. May I accompany you on your journey?" He requested plainly. "It would be good to have a chance to speak with you."

 

[Ostak Cl'mana]

POST: I
OBJECTIVE: Traversal of the Ungulloi
LOCATION: Traedaris, Bryn caravan
EQUIPMENT: Utilitarian winter leather robes
ALLIES IN OBJECTIVE: Osam / Sethrak

Ostak’s Urasik Wyvern soared a kilometer above the vast caravan, its rider in tow.​

The speed and stamina of the beasts gave Ostak an excellent view of his surroundings, allowing him and the other Shamen mounting nearby Wyverns to perform effective reconnaissance. The sky, which Ostak had been told by local guides was usually dotted with dangerous electric storms, was clear and uninterrupted for dozens of kilometers around. Undoubtedly the work of the talented element-manipulating Seers among the caravan so far below. Up in the open sky, Ostak and his comrades were left completely exposed to the bitter winds in the already cold atmosphere, chilling even the cold-resistant Aeravalin Shaman-Overseer. However, his thick winter layers provided necessary relief from the wind and the cold, and he continued to ride without any severe physical concerns.

Down below, a vast ice sheet extended beyond even Ostak’s visual range from atop his Urasik. Powdered over with inches of snow, the seemingly endless glacial mass was undoubtedly a formidable psychological challenge for the Baedurin and Aeravalin alike. Still, their admirable will kept them moving forwards towards the vast Targarat Super-Construct whose skyline loomed in the distance.

Ostak’s Urasik suddenly let out a sharp roar, a plea indicating its exhaustion. Ostak’s Wyvern was a capable and distinguished beast, a specimen of the first batch of Urasik produced by the bioengineering labs in his home system of Kesh. Over the course of months, an increasingly intimate bond of loyalty and devotion had formed between beast and rider, and Ostak clearly understood that his Wyvern was nearing his limit.

“Down.” ordered Ostak gently. “You’ve flown for hours, you must be exhausted. Get some rest before we take flight again.”

With a longer, deeper roar of approval, the Wyvern descended at a gentle slope, becoming level in altitude to the large roost cart for Urasik after about five minutes. As the Wyvern perched on a large steel platform and tucked its head into its torso, Ostak released his hands from his reins, taking several seconds to restore a regular flow of blood to his fingers after gripping the leather for so long. Then, Ostak leapt, rolling with his momentum and landing cleanly just to the left of the center of the caravan. He turned to face the path of the caravan and entered a brisk walk, keeping pace in the snow-covered ground.

As Ostak continued to walk absent-mindedly, he noticed two familiar figures in front of him.

One was the newly appointed Warlord Sethrak, whose actions at Nar Kreeta had greatly impressed and surprised the Shaman-Overseer, a feat not easily achieved. Today, he would perform his final psychological test of the Warlord’s character before finally introducing the former heretical figure to the very organization that would have slain him many months ago, whose conservative elements still considered him an “individual of interest”. Yet Ostak would do his best to guarantee an easy introduction, ensuring that the First Overseer’s faction did not give the newly distinguished Warlord the wrong message.

The other individual was Warlord Osam, who Ostak himself had recently introduced to the existence of the Tachael-Vemnak. In the near future, the Overseer of his own system would come into contact with him and reveal his network of informants, much as Ostak himself had done in Kesh to Warlord Agraloth many months earlier. Until then, the Shaman-Overseer was satisfied with letting Osam ponder, the significance of the part Ostak and his kin played in maintaining the stability of the Bryn’adul newly recognized.

“Warlord Osam! Warlord Sethrak! It’s an honor to meet you two again.” called out Ostak from behind the pair, jogging forwards to be parallel to their formation.

 

[Sethrak]

Post: 2
Objective: Traversal of the Ungulloi
Tags: Osam Ostak Cl'mana

Sethrak was just about to begin the emigration when Warlock Osam asked to accompany him. The warlord didn't even need to ask. He was perhaps the largest of Sethrak's inspiration. While Sethrak outranked the half-blood, he had immense respect for him. Indeed, Osam was more than a simple warrior. He was the prime example of how any Bryn could ascend the ranks. Furthermore he was perhaps the second most liberal among The Bryn, taking many steps to help integrate The Allied Races in comparison to the other Drael that had done little if anything.

Osam was one of two warriors that Sethrak had failed on Nar Kreeta. His memory was still a bit blurry regarding the conclusion of that battle, but he clearly remembered scrambling to save Osam and Sylok as they struggled to hold on to life. He had failed but they had survived somehow. He felt that he owed the two for his failure.

So, with great respect and a nagging feeling that he needed to allow Osam, Sethrak gladly responded with a simple "Of course, Warlord Osam. I am glad to see you are well after Nar Kreeta."

But Osam wasn't the only one interested in speaking to The First Warlock today it seemed, as Beast master Ostak called out from behind the two. Sethrak turned to meet the man and waved in greeting.

He would enjoy the company despite not being much of a social Drael, however he had to be careful. They couldn't take away from his primary goal: Learning the ways of the Ungulloi.

 

[Osam]

Post 2
Objective: Traversal

It was difficult not to notice a creature flying through the air when one was already predisposed to looking up as Osam had been. The Urasik and its rider soared above them before it began its dive down toward the caravan, landing atop a specialized cart that had been set aside to allow the fierce wyverns an opportunity to roost. Osam had seen a few of the beasts in the past, but had never managed to keep one in his command. Where were they created and how many of them were there? Were they simply meant to be an aerial mount in the same way that a Skag was, or did they possess greater abilities that he simply didn't understand.

He turned his attention back to Warlord Sethrak as he agreed to allow the hybrid to travel with him and then spoke of his health. From the outside, he must certainly have seemed very healthy, especially with the Flesh Vessel doing so much to conceal him. That fledgling weakness remained though, and while the outside world might not have taken notice of it yet, he was fully conscious of the difficulty he suffered in even fairly simple things.

"I could certainly be better, First Warlock." He rolled his shoulder slightly, feeling as the muscle popped. "One of my hearts is still... slow. The Ashaka think they could fix it - at least they hope they could, but..." Here was an equal, and so Osam felt that he had little reason to keep him uninformed. Both of them were Warlords over far separated worlds, and they fought to achieve broadly the same goals. It stood to reason that they would be working together in the future, and it would be best if they were closer allies for it. "I grow tired of being split open like a beast." He confessed.

A familiar voice called out his name and that of Sethrak, and the pair turned to face it. There stood none other than Ostak Cl'mana - one of many overseers of the Tachael-Vemnak. When the message had first been transmitted to Osam on the fields of Nar Kreeta, he had been undergoing a major heart attack as a result of a stimulant overdose. The Kraemonen embedded into the Flesh Vessel, however, had taken note of the message and once he had finally awoken from his comatose state, it had made certain to inform him of Ostak's true nature.

Surely Warlord Sethrak knew it too. After all, he had been a Warlord much longer than Osam had, and it stood to reason that all leaders of their people were familiar with the group. He suspected that soon he would need to contend with whatever Overseer was dispatched to deal with his corner of space. He hoped that they were more liberal in their mindset - a traditionalist would prove to be an obstacle, and Osam's track record with obstacles was bloody.

"Hail Beast Master Ostak. It is good to have you with us." He nodded in greeting to the secret policeman. "Have both of you been to Traedaris before? It is more pleasant in Targarat - it's where they designed my Flesh." He patted the chest-piece of the hide. "The Ungulloi are certainly a very resilient and creative bunch," Osam said, watching as a trio of them worked to realign a cart wheel that had begun to falter in the snow.

 

[Thova 'Mdanam]

Post: 2
Objective: Study

Thova moved silently through the empty halls of the old Ungulloi capital building. Each step, carefully placed and controlled through years of military training and discipline, echoed only faintly in the sloped hallways and tiled floors the Vaydralen passed through. The blue and purple light cast by the blade in his hands illuminated ancient carvings in the wooden walls, each one depicting the Ungulloi civilization at different points in its history. Present in almost every picture were beasts, mighty creatures which the Ungulloi were forced to either flee from, or fight. From what Thova could tell, it seemed they had fled far more often.

One moment, Thova was walking through the narrow and cramped hallways favored by the Ungulloi, and the next he stood in a vast antechamber. The Shipmaster spun in place quickly, surveying his surroundings as he moved away from the dark corners of the room and to the dimly lit center. Casting a brief glance upwards, the Vaydralen took note of a glass dome ceiling, partially broken in places, while others were coated in layer upon layer of grime. The broken panes were the only ones that allowed light into the chamber. Looking around, Thova could hardly make out the details of his surroundings, and even his helmets visual sensors were not locking on and adjusting to the illumination for some reason. Growling in annoyance, Thova drew the Marksman's Rifle strapped to his back, and leveled it at the glass ceiling above.

Five quick shots sent five window panes shattering to the ground, with more streams of light filling in through the openings. With the new level of lighting, the Shipmaster took in his surroundings once again. As fate would have it, Thova had found himself in a library of some sort. Row upon row of bookshelves lined the vast chamber, several of them knocked over with their contents scattered across the floor. Ungulloi text was along the bookshelves sides and tops, and Thova's helmet began to translate the text into a Bryn'adul dialect. Like all Covenant races, the Ungulloi's language had been studied and categorized, and entered into the storage of Bryn'adul technology. Each race was able to read and translate other allied species language with ease thanks to this, allowing for ease of communication across the newly diverse empire.

Deactivating Vor'kar Tanel and strapping it to his back along with his rifle, Thova began to move through the library, his crimson cloak disturbing piles of dust centuries old in the making. His eyes tracked across the various shelves, until they focused on a back section of the library titled histories. He selected one of the tomes on the shelf, opening it up carefully, reverently, and began to flip through the weathered pages. He moved from one book to another in rapid succession, ignoring texts that had little to do with ancient battles or great achievements of the Ungulloi. He needed to find proof of the races military value to the Bryn'adul above all else, only then would he open himself up to looking at other things.

So focused was he on his research that Thova did not at first notice the flickering rays of light in the room. He only realized the impending danger when a piece of glass behind him cracked, almost too quietly to hear. Spinning around, Thova reached for the rifle on his back as he came face to face with dozens are shadowed forms. Each one was small, barely coming to his knee in height, but everywhere he looked, the silent hunters were merging from the shadows. Noticing the flickering lights then, Thova spared a brief glance up to see the creatures entering from the newly opened holes in glass ceiling.

Cursing himself, Thova stowed the current book he was reading, the most promising find so far, beneath his cloak and drew Vor'kar Tanel once again. Holding the blade in his right hand, the snap hiss of the blue and purple blades bringing further illumination to the room. The rifle in his left tracked across the area in front of him, focusing on various targets as they slowly moved in to encircle the Shipmaster.

"Perhaps this is why the city is abandoned..."

 

[Ostak Cl'mana]

POST: II
OBJECTIVE: Traversal of the Ungulloi
LOCATION: Traedaris, Bryn caravan
EQUIPMENT: Utilitarian winter leather robes
ALLIES IN OBJECTIVE: Osam / Sethrak

"The Ungulloi are certainly a very resilient and creative bunch," Osam said, watching as a trio of them worked to realign a cart wheel that had begun to falter in the snow.

“Indeed.” admitted Ostak. “I would have died on Sev Tok if not for their creativity.”​

The Shaman-Overseer would likely never forget the actions of the Ungulloi that saved his life on that day, permanently erasing his previously held doubts about the effectiveness of a multispecies covenant. The small bodies of the Ungolloi hid a powerful resolve and intellect comparable to even the Draelvasier, rapidly proving their worth as a covenant species.

With a flick of his wrist, a cart wheel that several Ungulloi were working to realign rose up half a meter into the air and slid into place, their task aided by Ostak. It was a far cry from the life-saving actions of the Ungulloi on Sev Tok, but the Shaman-Overseer saw it as a reasonable first step to eventually pay off his blood debt to the species.

“This is my first time in Traedaris, Warlord Osam.” replied Ostak, returning to the earlier question the Warlord brought up. “I am normally deployed closer to either the frontier or the core systems extending up to Kesh. Such a degree of cold is a new experience for me, but fortunately, my thermal layers have served me well.”

Then, the Shaman-Overseer turned to the Warlord at his other flank and began to discreetly test him.

“Warlord Sethrak, I applaud your actions on Nar Kreeta.” stated Ostak. “I admit now, when I had sent you up with my beast report, I had hoped that you would be able to stall the treasonous Warlord until my return from the Hivemind. However, upon learning the truth about the Warlord, you took it upon yourself to secure his downfall. Such adaptability and loyalty towards the evolving idea of the Bryn’adul covenant is truly admirable.”

 

[Sethrak]

Post: 3
Objective: Traversal of the Ungulloi
Tags: Osam Ostak Cl'mana

Poor Osam was tired of being cut open. Sethrak felt his pain, if he were in his place he would be tired too. Unfortunately Osam's injuries were beyond Sethrak's healing capabilities. The best he could do would be to ease The Warlord's pain slightly, or heal some of the smaller cuts and bruises. However, he was sure that Osam would survive. He was a warrior, his resilience had been proved time and time again both in and out of combat.

By now, Ostak and Osam had exchanged words about the weather and the ungulloi and now Ostak was speaking to Sethrak.

“Warlord Sethrak, I applaud your actions on Nar Kreeta.” stated Ostak. “I admit now, when I had sent you up with my beast report, I had hoped that you would be able to stall the treasonous Warlord until my return from the Hivemind. However, upon learning the truth about the Warlord, you took it upon yourself to secure his downfall. Such adaptability and loyalty towards the evolving idea of the Bryn’adul covenant is truly admirable.”

It was quite a compliment, a surprising one. Sethrak welcomed it, he had been worried that many would assume his actions were simply to rise the ranks. After all, he had once been a heretic, and he was now The First Warlock, and a Warlord over one planet. With Amok-to's defeat, he should become Warlord of Nar Kreeta as well. Furthermore he had likely become a hero to the allied races as he declared himself their guardian for all to hear and see. Some could accuse him of wooing the liberal bloc of The Bryn'adul to support his ascension.

In reality he acted out of anger and necessity. There was no scheme to become anything more than what he was. He wasn't even sure that he was capable of leading any more than what he was already. As it was he gave Lothal high autonomy, allowing the council to take actions as they saw fit as he focused on The Warlock Caste.

The strongest argument the conservative Drael would use against him is that he abused The Morad'kai ceremony to avoid treason. They would likely claim it was an unjustified killing of a warlord over differing ideologies.

But Ostak proved that not all Bryn were against The First Warlock. It was comforting.

"Thank you, Ostak. It is good to know that I have allies. There are many that would dispute the justifiability of my actions."

 

[Osam]

Post 3
Objective: Traversal

Osam couldn't help but agree with Ostak as he mentioned the frigid cold that surrounded them. It was never something that was easy to get used to, especially for those of their kindred who were not Aeravalin. The Baedurin had the worst of it, of course, because of the supposed fire that each of them held within their bodies. They were accustomed to extreme heat and something so directly opposite to their preferred habitat was anathema. The Sraelvun suffered too from the cold - left alone without the necessary Quilxyn protection or that afforded by especially warm clothing would mean that they would contract frostbite and die just as easily as anyone.

"Kesh. I see. Is that where your beast hails from?" He questioned, nodding toward the Wyvern as it was gently rocked to and fro by the movement of the roosting cart. It seemed that the other cart which had slowed their caravan had also been inexplicably fixed. Once again, Osam found himself questioning the limitations of the Force - if it could do something so precise, what could it not accomplish? Surgery? Dissection?

The Warlord and the Overseer began to talk among themselves, discussing Sethrak 's performance during the second Battle of Nar Kreeta, and the subsequent extermination of the heretical Amok-Tu. Osam was very nearly ready to provide his own congratulations to his fellow Warlord on the successful Morad'kai when he heard Ostak make reference to the fact that he had rather stealthily orchestrated the meeting in the first place. What beast report had he been attempting to deliver? Hadn't Osam sent him there to make immediate contact with Amok-Tu?

How many secrets and schemes were being enacted by Ostak Cl'mana and his fellow Tachael-Vemnak? Was this conversation too merely a method of control and compulsion? Even if it was, what would he be able to do about it? It was not as if though they were his enemies... he was not heretical - at least not in any way that mattered - and they would not deem it necessary to stamp him out now unless he made a particularly egregious error in judgment.

"I was also very impressed when I'd heard that you had defeated Amok-Tu." He offered at last, giving a slight glance over to the Overseer before continuing, "In truth, I don't think I would have handled it as well as you did. A Morad'kai was a very honorable way to go about things." He didn't finish with the obvious admission that he would have just shot Amok-Tu, or perhaps ripped his grimey head from his shoulders. He had little need for tradition when efficacy was at stake.

"To name yourself a protector has been a comfort to many of those under my command." Osam said, nodding toward the Ungolloi as they continued on their trek. "Pushing for their inclusion is difficult enough - having Drael willing to allow and support it is always welcome."

 

[Ostak Cl'mana]

POST: III
OBJECTIVE: Traversal of the Ungulloi
LOCATION: Traedaris, Bryn caravan
EQUIPMENT: Utilitarian winter leather robes
ALLIES IN OBJECTIVE: Osam / Sethrak

"Thank you, Ostak. It is good to know that I have allies. There are many that would dispute the justifiability of my actions."

"Indeed." replied Ostak.

The Shaman-Overseer knew all too well those who had disputed the young Warlord's actions.
​

Thanks to the public revelations made by Warlord Osam, Warlord Amok-Tu's treason was exposed to even the most stubborn of the Tachael-Vemnak conservatives. However, that had not made the one hundred and fourth Overseer Conclave any more bearable. Both the liberal and conservative blocs had accused each other of misconduct, barely stopping short of treason accusations. Still, both factions understood that an ineffective Council of Overseers was far worse than a council run by their ideological enemies, and kept themselves together for the sake of their unified cause.

However, Ostak was uncertain as to how much longer such an unsteady peace would last. The First Overseer, a senior among seniors and rumored to be the first Aeravalin ever cloned, was an incredibly charismatic figure, and Ostak knew well enough that the other Overseer had a strict traditionalist agenda. Perhaps it was a twisted maternal instinct towards the organization he had established, a desire to keep his brainchild young and unchanging for eternity. Or perhaps it was something far darker. Regardless, the Shaman-Overseer feared that it would not be long before the First Overseer's way of thinking came to dominate the Council, leaving Ostak as a tiny island of independent thought.

"Kesh. I see. Is that where your beast hails from?"

The Shaman-Overseer was suddenly pulled out of his thoughts by a comment from Warlord Osam.

"Yes, the Urasik are the products of my home system." replied Ostak. "Our Shamen saw potential in power and loyalty of the smaller native Uvak wyverns, and we launched a joint effort with the Seers and bioengineering corps. They are larger than their native cousins, and can carry several Draelvasier on their backs. However, their most impressive feature is their scales. Unlike the Uvak, the Urasik have scales whose unique properties conceal them from all but the most advanced of radar. As a result, they are in high demand among the Zealot Elites and battlefield commanders seeking safe and mobile command platforms."

The Shaman-Overseer took immense pride in the Urasik, the Kesh system's finest contribution to the Draelvasier war machine.

As the two Warlords began to speak, Ostak turned his gaze to the skyline of the Super-Construct piercing through the icy plateau up ahead.

 

[Sethrak]

Post: 4
Objective: Traversal of the Ungulloi
Tags: Osam Ostak Cl'mana

Now it was Osam's turn to show Sethrak support. He appreciated it immensely, pleased that someone he respected so much was also on his side. This was even more important because Osam was a warlord, and even more, he was a warlord that had the respect of Tathra Khaeus. To have Tathra on his side was essential.

Sethrak was also thrilled to learn that his announcement to The Bryn that he was the protector of The Allied Races had affected Osam's troops. It had been a major step for Sethrak and it had made waves. It was good that it was making an impact.

Sethrak continued walking as the two warlords spoke to each other. Up ahead, The Superconstruct was slowly becoming visible. The journey had not posed many issues so far. The Ungulloi had proved themselves to be resilient, indeed. On several occasions they worked together, flipping carts over, helping each other up, and trading with others as needed.

As the warlords came up to a break in the conversation Sethrak realized he never had the chance to congratulate Osam for his promotion. It was at Sev Tok when the mixed-blood had been promoted, and Sethrak simply hadn't had a break since then. He planned to at the end of the battle but with Hrajlmak's death, Sethrak had loads of work to do. He decided to use this moment to finally congratulate Osam.

"Warlord Osam. It has come to my attention that I never had the opportunity to congratulate you on becoming a Warlord. You have certainly earned it. I wish I could say I have a gift for you, but I do not. However, if you require advice, I would be happy to give it."

Sethrak didn't really believe his words. He didn't want to give advice because he didn't feel like he was a strong enough leader to. He had nearly killed Osam and Sylok with his actions at Nar Kreeta. Who was he to advise anyone? Regardless he gave the offer, hoping Osam wouldn't ask for any....

 

[Leon Sharpe]

O B J E C T I V E: H U N T E R S M O O N​

Rathdrum put his fingers into the softness that was the crust of the planet, he had traveled far from his home, only to be told to hunt in a world unworthy of his skills. Bringing the soil to his nose he sniffed, taking in the scent of the prey he had been hunting. Having left the likes of his guards behind, Rathdrum would hunt alone. The howling winds at his back nothing compared to the winter's he faced back on his home planet of Thruk, making the hunt here an afternoon walk for the Thruum of the Thrum'dral.​

​

Much had happened since his appointment as Thruum by the Bryn'adûl, being made stronger than the likes of what any other of his kind had experience, and not being limited by the capacity for war has liberated him from the likes of the other of his kind, who have now been turned from rivaling clans into a united force to aid the Bryn in their wars, and they would do it gladly, war was the Thrum'dral, that was what Thruk had prepared them for, the harshness and unforgiving nature of his home planet molded him into a strong warrior, and the augmentations by the Bryn made him a more than a capable leader.​

​

Even now, his skills had enhanced tenfold, finally realizing that his people were pleased with what the wider galaxy called the force, having been in control of his affinity for much of his life he honed it with mastery, he did not know where his affinity lied, whether the dark or light, but Rathdrum knew that he was more than capable enough to defeat some of the excuses of soldiers he had seen from the wider galaxy.​

​

The world came back to him, the wind attempting to chill him, but his fur protected him from the excuse that this world put forth for him, his eyes scanning around, even now he was reaching out attempting to sense the creature he had been hunting. The creature was large, almost twice his size, but somehow alluded the experienced hunter, leading him to only want to find this elusive beast and be the one to slay it. He was the Apex of this battleground, and every battleground he had fought in. He was the Thruum, he was Rathdrum.​

​

 

[Thova 'Mdanam]

The creatures charged at Thova in a seemingly endless tide. They died just as quickly as they came, but Thova was slowly being backed into both a theoretical and literal corner. The creatures were some kind of feline lizard hybrid, capable of climbing across almost any surface, and moving with the grace of lethal killers. Against prey such as the Ungulloi, they doubtless would have been a problematic threat, but against a Vaydralen warrior, they died in droves. Still, he had run out of ammo for his gun already, and the endless waves of the beasts were slowly forcing him to move away from the exits of the room.

His rifle lay discarded on the floor, jammed down the throat of the creature that had taken its last round straight through its body. Small pieces of his armor littered the field of corpses, and every passing second saw another added to the heap as the glowing blades of Vor'kar Tanel reaped a heavy toll. His mind worked in a fury of possible avenues of escape, each one discarded almost as quickly as he thought it through. He needed to get out of the corner they creatures had pinned him in.

His eyes shot upwards, locking on the broken ceiling he had created. Several creatures were still slinking through the opening, but compared to the swarm on the ground of the library, they were the better option. Thova sliced one leaping creature in half mid leap, spinning in place and cutting down two more with a single strike as they tried to flank the Shipmaster. Working quickly, Thova launched a brief counter attack, creating an opening around him to work with. In the split second before the creatures rushed back in, Thova primed and dropped two grenades. He then jumped on top of one of the bookshelves.

Just as the explosives detonated, Thova jumped upwards, the blast behind him colliding with his personal Quilxyn shielding and giving the Shipmaster and extra push. He cleared the last few feet and slammed his hand onto the lip of the ceiling, cutting down two stunned creatures nearby before hauling himself through the opening.

On the roof now, Thova looked back down into the library, his helmet visual picking out the burning and scattering forms of the creatures. The explosions had startled them, finally sending them fleeing from the main action. It was likely only temporary, and Thova had to capitalize on the opportunity presented to him. Activating the communicator on his wrist, Thova sent word to the transport he had standing by near the edges of the ice plains. He had taken the time to walk into the city to pay some respect to the Ungulloi people, but Thova was sure they would understand why he needed to make a more hasty withdrawal.

"This is Thova, I am ready for extraction. I have what I came for."

 

[Osam]

Post 4
Objective: Traversal

Sethrak | Ostak Cl'mana

The Overseer was a fount of information, and though Osam could not guarantee it, he felt fairly confident that he had touched on a point of pride by requesting further information about the flying war-beast. His earlier assessment that they might hail from the same planet as the Overseer had been correct, but it was nevertheless quite intriguing to learn more about them. It seemed that their scales could be utilized for the sake of stealth raids, especially if the Overseer was correct about their carrying capacity. A full squad of them, each carrying five or six Draelvasier, would prove to be a fierce tool indeed in their war against humanity.

"Perhaps I should request one then from Kesh's Warlord. We've been working on new beasts as well here on Traedaris. When we reach Targarat, I will show you the first of them." He said, nodding toward the superstructure which had begun to come into view.

Sethrak used the lull in the conversation to pitch in, directing his congratulations to the Risen-Sraelvun for his ascension and offering advice in the process. Osam gave something of a smile to his fellow Warlord, happy that all of his efforts at attaining personal glory had paid off and he had found himself in a position where he could do a great deal of good for the Bryn'adul as a whole.

"There is no need for gifts. The position is a gift of its own." He began, waving off the idea that he needed to be bombarded with accessories and tools and weapons in appreciation for his rank. "I would ask you some questions though since you have offered. I'm aware that on occasion it is necessary to funnel resources between our different worlds. As a Warlord, I supposedly exhibit control over planets such as Traedaris and Caerdar." A glance at the Overseer to see his reaction, a hidden implication for the especially perceptive. "How are such transfers conducted? Do I simply request something and send something else in return? Is it a matter of detailing the necessity for some item or another and dispatching it to Draemidus Prime?"

Fighting on the war-front and dealing with aspects of administration were blatantly different. Osam had a lifetime of experience in the former and about a week's experience in dealing with the latter. Doubtless, Sethrak would know more than he did.

 

[Ostak Cl'mana]

POST: IV
OBJECTIVE: Traversal of the Ungulloi
LOCATION: Traedaris, Bryn caravan
EQUIPMENT: Utilitarian winter leather robes
ALLIES IN OBJECTIVE: Osam / Sethrak

"I would ask you some questions though since you have offered. I'm aware that on occasion it is necessary to funnel resources between our different worlds. As a Warlord, I supposedly exhibit control over planets such as Traedaris and Caerdar." A glance at the Overseer to see his reaction, a hidden implication for the especially perceptive. "How are such transfers conducted? Do I simply request something and send something else in return? Is it a matter of detailing the necessity for some item or another and dispatching it to Draemidus Prime?"

The Shaman-Overseer briefly raised an eyebrow, another subtle gesture.
​

"I believe I could answer that question, Warlord Osam." replied Ostak. "I have served as a mediator between various different Warlords before, and can explain the process. Typically, the two Warlords or their representatives will meet at a designated location, and one or both of them will announce their requests. Afterwards, the two parties will negotiate a final deal, and then record the deal onto a tablet for future record."

It was a half-truth, as was most of Ostak's public statements. On one hand, Ostak had mediated between Warlords on behalf of Kesh in previous resource and manpower exchanges. However, what remained untold was that he mediated not just on behalf of the Warlords, but also as a representative of the Tachael-Vemnak. After all, discord and disagreement between Warlords was detrimental for the stability of the Bryn'adul. In fact, almost all of the mediators in Warlord diplomacy were Tachael-Vemnak agents, whether they were covert or openly operating depending on the clearance level of the delegates. Perhaps one day, it would be Ostak sitting between Osam and Sethrak as they negotiated between their own new domains.

"Regardless of the complexities, I'm sure you will both soon come to an understanding of the simple bartering system." concluded the Shaman-Overseer before turning back to the path in front of him.

A group of Ungulloi suddenly scurried by, giving out grunts and cries that even the relatively seasoned Ostak had difficulty translating. Struck by a sudden wave of confusion, the Shaman-Overseer turned to his juniors for clarification.

"The Ungulloi language is a rather difficult manner of speech to interpret, at least for me." stated Ostak. "Do either of you have any knowledge of the basics of the language?

​

 

[Sethrak]

Post: 4
Objective: Traversal of the Ungulloi
Tags: Osam Ostak Cl'mana

Osam had chosen to take Sethrak up on the offer. It was expected, just unwanted. Regardless, he had offered and now he was obligated to answer. However, before he could answer, Ostak jumped in. His answer was solid enough for Sethrak to remain silent. However something felt off in The Force. It was as if both Osam and Ostak knew something that they weren't letting on.

Sethrak wouldn't inquire about it, it could be unimportant, and it was just a slight bump in The Force. Not enough to make an assumption over. Instead, he would pay closer attention to their conversation for now.

Then Ostak asked both Sethrak and Osam about the Ungulloi language. He claimed that he was struggling to interpret the language, and wished to know if the Warlords knew it. Sethrak answered first, "I do not know the language. I instead use communication stones, or in their absence, I interpret their thoughts through The Force. I have not tried to learn it, I have been busy attending to The Warlock Caste, and my planets."

The last part was unnecessary. The two knew he was busy, he was simply covering for himself. While it was true that he was busy and he had made no effort to learn the language, in telling the two, he only appeared lazy. At least that's how he saw himself. He knew if one of them had used his excuse, he would not think anything of it. This was just another effort of his own mind to put him down.

He looked to Osam, waiting to see if the Warlord knew the language yet....

 

[Osam]

Post 5
Sethrak | Ostak Cl'mana

While Osam had directed all of his questions primarily toward his fellow Warlord, the Overseer quickly chimed in, declaring that he himself knew the answers to the hybrid's interrogatives. While there wasn't any proper commerce - at least none that depended upon the creation of private businesses and the acquisition of monetary resources, it seemed that he had been correct in assuming that there was a trade of some kind or another between the systems. He hadn't expected there to be mediators, and especially not any as busy as a Tachael-Vemnak agent.

Could it be that the Tachael-Vemnak had involved himself in the transitions in order to assert authority over the situation and to create order in case it became necessary? How close were the secretive police at all times? Was there only one within the caravan with which they traveled, or could it be that each of the Warlords had at least one following them even at this very moment? How could he be absolutely sure of a person's loyalty if he couldn't even identify a single hidden agent?

The Overseer assured him that he would come to understand the bartering system, but in truth, Osam now had other questions that could not so easily be asked, and not so simply be answered.

Thankfully the conversation was shifted to somewhat happier topics with the scurry of a band of Ungulloi, each one going about their business in assisting the caravan in its operation and movement, babbling in their alien tongue to one another as they went about their work. The Overseer admitted that he had failed to understand some aspects of the language, and then questioned whether either of the two Warlords had managed to understand any of it.

Sethrak for his part seemed to have no further knowledge of the language, highlighting that he had been busy dealing with his own worlds and the adopted Warlock caste. Osam nodded in acceptance of this offered excuse, understanding that there was a significant amount of stress and activity that needed to be dealt with by his fellow Warlord.

"I've not mastered the language either. At times I just use the mind-stones. Othertimes the Flesh interprets for me." He said, tapping at the Vessel with a gentle finger. "I do understand some of the words, just not very many, and I don't know how to speak the language back. For example... I believe that pair over there..." He directed his index finger to the Ungulloi pair. "They're talking about their new rooms... maybe something about furniture?" A shrug. In truth, he didn't know a great deal.

"Do you think it'll be added to our flash-training? Maybe we'll be caught up to date with one?"

 

[Thova 'Mdanam]

"Those two over there are discussing the finer points of wooden furniture compared to more rock based types. One claims that their room will be too small for such traditional furniture however, while the other is calling him an idiot." Thova 'Mdanam's voice carried over the area the assembled Bryn'adul leaders were in, almost drowned out by the sound of the transport that had brought him in lifting off and departing. The Shipmasters cloak billowed around him as he approached, his red helmet eyes tracking the various Ungulloi columns all around them. He came to stand before the other Bryn'adul, nodding his head slightly to each of them in turn.

"Languages are a specialty of the Vaydralen. On Caerdar, there are over three hundred native tongues, each one developed over the generations by the various Clans. We tend to be able to pick up alien speech quickly." With his peace said, he turned his eyes back to watch the Ungulloi, his armored arms folding across his chest as he watched the diminutive forms of the species waddle by. He still had his doubts about their validity in the greater Empire and Covenant, but the book he had secured would hopefully help.

"If I may ask, how do the operations here progress?"

Osam Sethrak Ostak Cl'mana