◈━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◈ T H E K R A K E N C R I E R - 2 - ◈━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◈
Edition #2 - 16 June 2025
⚓ Monthly publication for The City of Selnar, Imperial Cos
Guest Editor: Lady Kaela Priscus Altius
Columnists: Lady Astrid Fiskrdottir, Lady Gloria Adrastus & Other Unnamed Participants
Positions Open for Reporters, Columnists and a Publisher. Please let Lady Kaela know!
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All views expressed in the editorials and ads of this newspaper are the current opinions of the authors and do not reflect the opinions of the Ubar, the High Council, the newspaper, or its editors.
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⚓ This Week in Selnar ⚓
⚓ Local Hero Defends Scribe's Hall from Panther Attack
In a stunning display of courage, Magistrate Abraham Jacobson proved that valor is not confined to the battlefield. When a wandering wild woman emerged from thing air and prowled into the heart of city, it was the quick-thinking magistrate who stood between the beast and the scribes within.
With nothing more than a walking staff and sheer resolve, Jacobson held the woman at bay, ensuring the safety of all within the Hall. Witnesses say his presence was "unshakable," and one scribe described him as "a wall of calm in a storm of chaos and calamity."
Thanks to Magistrate Jacobson’s bravery, not a single life was lost. The people of Selnar salute him—not just as a leader, but as a protector.
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⚓ Justice Never Sleeps
Citizens of Selnar, let it not be said that the wheels of justice grind to a halt. A reminder to all: Lady Dahlia Black remains wanted in connection with the shocking murder of our former Praetor, Antonius V. Furius. Though whispers suggest she may have taken up a magistrate’s robes in some distant city, no title can mask the truth forever.
The Warrior Caste urges any with knowledge of her current whereabouts to step forward. A substantial reward awaits those who provide credible information that leads to her capture.
Justice never sleeps. And neither do we.
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⚓ The Cost of Presence: Cos at The Thing
While the banners of Cos flew high at The Thing of the North, the markets of Telnus emptied.
This past moon, a full delegation of Cosian representatives—White Caste, selected Merchants, and others—attended the Thing, the great moot of Torvaldsland. Their presence was a visible declaration of Cosian influence, of course—but it came at a price that many here at home are still paying.
Multiple storefronts across the Central District, including the notable Veiled Quill, closed their doors in the days surrounding the delegation’s departure. Some cited a lack of foot traffic. Others pointed to a temporary freeze in city-backed patronage. One source within the scribes’ registry quietly confirmed that payments owed to contracted clerks and assistants were delayed for two hands or more—many of whom have since left their posts.
Meanwhile, the war with Port Kar continues to impact supply chains. Imported goods are rare. Naval patrols consume a significant portion of city funds. The combination of recent military expenditure and now this high-profile political voyage has left little in reserve for the working caste. Fishmongers, vintners, and clothiers have spoken—off the record—about rising tariffs, missing shipments, and customers who can no longer afford their wares.
“The shelves are bare,” said Leros, a spice vendor near the Eastern Gate. “We were promised replenishment two hands ago. Instead, we got speeches in the North.”
Tavra, a cloth merchant, was more blunt: “I can’t pay my apprentice. She’s gone back to her village. Meanwhile, the Scribes write poetry about unity.”
And from a baker near the Southern Docks: “It is not that I fear starvation. It is that I see it already.”
Of course, defenders of the City’s presence at the Thing argue that these missions are essential to Cos’s diplomatic reputation. They claim that participating in inter-city dialogs prevents isolation, bolsters trade relationships, and deters hostile neighbors from perceiving Cos as weak. Some even frame the attendance as a gesture of peace—an attempt to bridge cultural divides and avoid future conflict.
And yet, one must ask: At what cost? The timing of this political performance is questionable at best. The city is not healed. Reconstruction lags behind need. The working caste is overburdened. Trade, the lifeblood of Cos, is constricted. In the absence of financial relief or a clear public explanation of what benefits were gained from this northern mission, citizens are left only with the visible toll.
The optics are difficult to ignore. While robes of pristine white swept the soil of Torvaldsland, market shelves here went bare. While councils debated in halls of stone, children cried for lack of grain. While speeches were given, shopkeepers quietly extinguished lamps behind boarded doors.
Civic unity relies not on pageantry, but on stability. If future diplomatic endeavors are to be funded by the labor of Cos’s working caste, then it is time their voices were not merely taxed—but heard.
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⚓ Submissions & Random Writings
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OPEN LETTER TO THE PEOPLE OF COS
People of Cos, of our Great Selnar.
You may know me as Sanders, the retired Rarius. Whom was running to be the vinter of Selnar, and often wandering around the square, fields and warrior hall. I no longer wish to deceive you all from a past that was following me for a great time.
Sanders is my handler name, i would like to formally let it be known my True name.
I am Sextus Sentius Placidus a Cosian by Birth, the Placidus family has been Strictly Cosian keeping their bloodline true and a High Caste family name which i rather honor than hide. A handful of you know this name already as i have shared it with a select few.
Allow me to apologize for the deception or use of a simple Handler,
May the Priest Kings show mercy upon us all,
And Smite those who oppose the true believers.
Sincerely,
Sextus Sentius Placidus
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A PHYSICIAN POEM
She Had the Eagle?s Eye and Heart of Lion
The wounded warrior wanders back at last
His bloody tunic proves the crimson Caste
What ointment, salve, or tonic is required?
A healer skilled or he will be expired
Those nimble fingers weave a suture tight
The flesh will mend so he again may fight
Intrepid is the warrior?s fresh recruit
But better still return a seasoned fruit
Those tiny microbes can a warrior fell
More deadly than the crossbow?s bolt from hell
Without a healer to prolong his life
A Pyrrhic victory would end in strife
Some scratch, a tiny cut or open sore
Would fell the noble warrior more than gore
The charred flesh smolders sore beneath the brand
A hapless slave girl feels her Master?s hand
As white-hot iron burns deep into her skin
She screams in pain---her freedom?s at an end
A salve is needed for a girl?s distress
Relieve her pain and staunch the tenderness
The skillful healer has a balm of clove
That ancient plant for burns induced of love
And bitter slave wine must a girl endure
The doctor makes her pregnancy demure
That bitter tonic from some forest root
Ensures no pregnant girl at Master?s boot
Such knowledge is not easily obtained
The Caste of Green is highly trained
Old Gorean is written for a script
The Scribe is not for medicine equipped
Those white-robed cenobites know only words
They read a Vulo?s spleen---that?s for the birds!
With careful penmanship prescribe the cure
Her words dictate which tonic to endure
Foul tasting drugs will nonetheless provide
The artful healing of a sick inside
The written line is transformed to relief
The patient soon returns to his belief
Where is that panacea of Hermes?
That can induce a cure of each disease?
Of all the ailments one stands out as worst
Dar-Kosis is not blessed---it?s accursed
The green gown hides the healer from his sight
Inside the emerald cover she?s so bright
Her ivory skin with radiance blushes hot
Beneath her veil those fiery eyes blink not
No patient can become this doctor?s thrall
The rules of healing arts apply to all
No pauper will she turn away from care
The wealthy merchant pays the beggar?s share
The Green Caste offers ageless life to each
Theirs is the way eternity to reach
At least it is in some vague earthly way
Where carpe diem means to seize the day
Why live forever if one can?t enjoy
Stability from medicine?s alloy
The builder builds and makes his structure firm
Physicians also build---they cure infirm
Their mansions are not carved of wood or stone
Instead they fashion them from flesh and bone
Their temples are the blind who now can see
Or lame who walk with perfect symmetry
The builder?s edifice stands in one spot
The healer?s monument transcends the lot
Without a healer death would wander wild
None would be safe, not elderly nor child
Those silly cenobites with mystic chants
Would find themselves as worthless sycophants
What sacred chant can drive away disease?
What mystic mantra will foul spirits please?
The peasant finds the healer at the top
The Blessed Caste to him is just a flop
But power stems from money it is sure
The black Caste lurks behind the white robes pure
No subtle slight of hand a doctor shows
Hers is the healing ways she clearly knows
The eagle?s eye can spot a cause obscure
The heart of lion can quickly bring a cure
Some symbols flow from ancient manuscript
Expressing life in ways so nondescript
Thus only through the right brain can one feel
The powerful emotions that seem real
There is a joy in saving human life
Albeit once again to create strife
Those learned sorts of medicine aren?t scribes
Or entertainers either making vibes
Theirs is a method based on ways exposed
Experiment until the issue?s closed
Compound each tonic, ointment, potion pure
With loving care to give the patient cure
And never give a poison vile or bane
But seek instead to lessen earthly pain
About the school are teachers of the art
Of healing, their role is no minor part
They must employ the methods true and true
Before admitting students to Caste Blue
Once giving medicine or just advice
They clear the way to earthly paradise
"Physician" a poem by Taunus 05/05/2006
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THE MAD GREEN OF COS
The Mad Green of Cos
A tale best sung when the paga’s cheap and the lights are low...
Oh she’s wide in the hips and mean in the mood,
Breasts like shields and a tongue that's crude.
A grunt goes in and limps out sore,
But gods be damned, he goes back for more.
She’s the Mad Green, lads, she’ll bleed you dry,
One glare from her and your balls ask why.
A healer, they say, with a temper that bites,
She once cured a cough by starting three fights.
Her desk’s a wreck of bottles and bones,
Syringes she sharpens on warrior’s groins.
Scrolls unread and knives unclean,
She’ll stitch your soul with a look that’s mean.
She’s fond of grunts, aye, the dumbest breed,
She likes 'em scarred and full of need.
Break a rib? She’ll fix the bone,
Then ride your pride like a borrowed home.
She’s said to have cured a limp with a slap,
And healed heartbreak with a thunderclap.
One lad moaned ‘til she gave him a look,
Now he speaks in whispers and cooks her soup.
They say her lovers don’t last long,
Not ‘cause she’s cruel—but just that strong.
One poor bastard begged for peace,
She patched his wound and broke his lease.
So raise your glass to the woman in green,
Who’s tougher than iron and thrice as mean.
She’ll save your life, but you’ll pay the price—
In dignity, bruises, or something nice.
Raise your horns to the healer who bites!
To the mad green of Cos who fixes and fights!
She’ll mend your bone with a grunt and a boot—
Then seduce your Ubar and steal his damn loot!
She courted a Builder with a limp and a lisp,
Who measured her hips with a compass and wisp.
He swore her curves defied all code,
She bent him backward ‘til his ledger exploded.
He brought her flowers—she brought him gin,
Then scrawled her name on his chisel and chin.
He begged for peace, she gave him flair—
And nailed his pants to her clinic chair.
She ran a clinic with a rusty knife,
Could stitch your wound or steal your wife.
The guards came by with laws to preach—
She bled ‘em dry and fed the leech.
She brewed her tonics strong and black,
Could raise the dead or melt your back.
A merchant croaked, she said “He’ll mend,”
Then charged his heirs and claimed his friend.
Raise your horns to the healer who bites!
To the mad green of Cos who fixes and fights!
She’ll mend your bone with a grunt and a boot—
Then seduce your Ubar and steal his damn loot!
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THE "THING" POEM SUBMISSION
Through Centuries of struggle,
Hardship is always found,
Endlessly in an infinite loop.
Selnar is however unlike the rest,
Tastefully elegant with pride and honor,
An abundance of beauty beneath every collar,
Chivalrous in Cosian Mannerism,
Hopelessly doomed to be filled with the Hottest warriors in all of Gor,
Even Alluring to the Initiates, and Rune priests so i've heard,
Sanguine Citizens roam those beautiful streets.
Genteel is our palates.
Lethargic we are not!
Omnipotent we are!
Renounce loss for we will prevail.
Yours Truly Sanders.
I Sextus Sentius Placidus give my approval for this Submission to be entered into the Kracken.
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GOREAN ASTROLOGY V2
Gorean Astrology Forecast
1. Tarn (The Sky-Born) ((January))
Dates: First Month of En’Var
Traits: Proud, bold, restless
Strengths: Leadership, ambition
Weaknesses: Arrogance, easily bored
Forecast: A spotlight finds you whether you want it or not. Praise rings hollow this hand, and eyes follow you with envy dressed as admiration. Be gracious—but keep your talons sharp. Not all applause is earned.
2. Urt (The Survivor) ((February))
Dates: Second Month of En’Var
Traits: Cunning, adaptable, underestimated
Strengths: Resourcefulness, endurance
Weaknesses: Distrustful, secretive
Forecast: A buried truth claws its way toward daylight. You can spin the tale before they do—or let it rot and fester. This is your warning: silence is not safety. Say it first. Say it better.
3. Larl (The Flame-Toothed) ((March))
Dates: First Month of Se’Var
Traits: Fierce, noble, dominating
Strengths: Courage, confidence
Weaknesses: Rage, stubbornness
Forecast: You are moments from unleashing something glorious or devastating. A confrontation brews, and it smells like victory... or ruin. Curb your pride just long enough to choose the battlefield. And the witnesses.
4. Tarsk (The Builder) ((April))
Dates: Second Month of Se’Var
Traits: Loyal, grounded, practical
Strengths: Reliability, patience
Weaknesses: Slow to act, resistant to change
Forecast: That steady pace you swear by? It’s now a liability. Someone with prettier words and messier ethics is cutting in line. If you want what’s yours, raise your voice—or someone else will raise your price.
5. Vart (The Night Hunter) ((May))
Dates: First Month of Camerius
Traits: Observant, intense, mysterious
Strengths: Strategy, secrecy
Weaknesses: Brooding, detached
Forecast: You know something no one else does—but the weight of knowing grows heavier. This hand, your stillness may be mistaken for weakness. Move subtly, but make sure the wound you deliver is final.
6. Tabuk (The Heart-Walker) ((June))
Dates: Second Month of Camerius
Traits: Gentle, perceptive, artistic
Strengths: Empathy, beauty, diplomacy
Weaknesses: Fragility, indecision
Forecast: Beauty isn't armor—but you try to wear it like it is. A crack forms in the mask, and someone sees more than you meant to show. Let them. Vulnerability is power when it’s weaponized right.
7. Sleen (The Tracker) ((July))
Dates: First Month of Se’Kara
Traits: Focused, relentless, loyal
Strengths: Determination, justice
Weaknesses: Obsession, tunnel vision
Forecast: The path forks—and both trails smell like prey. One is easy, obvious, and expected. The other? Twisted, hidden, dangerous. You didn’t come this far to play it safe. Take the harder road. Drag back something worth showing off.
8. Verr (The Provider) ((August))
Dates: Second Month of Se’Kara
Traits: Nurturing, steadfast, proud
Strengths: Family, loyalty, comfort
Weaknesses: Overprotective, suspicious
Forecast: You've played protector for too long—and someone mistook your mercy for permission. This hand, step back. Let the ungrateful stumble. They’ll learn the cost of comfort when it’s gone. And you’ll sleep better for it.
9. Cosian Vulo (The Dancer) ((Sept))
Dates: First Month of Se’Var
Traits: Witty, charming, unpredictable
Strengths: Creativity, social agility
Weaknesses: Flighty, distracted
Forecast: Whispers follow your steps this hand—and someone wants to see you trip. The answer isn’t caution; it’s performance. Wear your reputation like silk and scandal like perfume. Then leave them breathless and guessing.
10. Hith (The Patient Coil) ((Oct))
Dates: Second Month of Se’Var
Traits: Wise, calculating, calm
Strengths: Foresight, knowledge
Weaknesses: Cold, manipulative
Forecast: The trap is already set. Now comes the fun part: waiting. A rival grows overconfident, sloppy. Let them get comfortable—then squeeze. The most elegant victories come slow, without a single scream.
11. Kaiila (The Wind’s Hoof) ((Nov))
Dates: First Month of Se’Kara
Traits: Free-spirited, brave, loyal
Strengths: Travel, movement, bravery
Weaknesses: Restlessness, recklessness
Forecast: A new opportunity tempts you to gallop before the dust settles. Pause. Look back. Something—or someone—hasn’t earned a seat at your side. Cut ties cleanly. You’ll ride faster with less weight.
12. Bosk (The Foundation) ((Dec))
Dates: Second Month of Se’Kara
Traits: Commanding, dependable, unyielding
Strengths: Authority, strength, tradition
Weaknesses: Rigidity, overconfidence
Forecast: Tradition is a fine shield... until it becomes a wall. A challenge will come wrapped in innovation and risk. You can scoff—or adapt. The one who breaks the mold this hand controls the forge next.
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GOREAN STOCKMARKET V2
Gorean Mercantile Index – Market Scroll of the Week
Overall Trade Health:
Markets across Gor remain unstable this hand. Tariffs from Ar have escalated again, sparking quiet outrage among coastal traders. The Vosk Delta remains a lifeline—but barely. In Port Kar, pirate raids are snarling shipping lanes, and gossip says three merchant captains haven’t returned. Meanwhile, the slave markets are saturated—too many collars, not enough coin.
Iron & Steel:
Standard sword: 6–8 silver tarsks
High-end Torvaldsland-forged blade: 15 silver tarsks – Demand steady from northern dueling culture
Chainmail shirt (imported): 12 silver tarsks – Prices stable, if you can find one that doesn’t stink of brine
Spears dipped in Ost venom: not available for open market sale – Rumored trade through shady backdoors in Port Kar
Commodities & Goods:
Tharlarion grease (Refined): 3 silver per keg – Climbing; siege prep underway in three cities
Suls (dried): 8 copper per sack – Still staple, still boring, still profitable
Kalana wine (Ar vintages): 2 silver per bottle – Plunging; harvest spoiled, flavors flat
Vulo eggs (fresh): 4 copper per dozen – Spiking; someone’s henhouse is booming
Slave silk (standard): 5 copper per bolt – Down; oversupply and lower standards dragging prices
Livestock & Transport:
Bosk calf (healthy): 7 silver tarsks – Expected to rise as festivals approach
Kaiila (battle-trained): 20–25 silver tarsks – Surge in demand from the Plains; new bloodlines commanding higher bids
Verr (milk-producing): 3 silver tarsks – Holding firm, unlike half the pens in the Vosk Basin
Slave Market Index (Adjusted to Canon Pricing):
Cosian Exchange Prices – Mid Se’Kara:
Exotic or rare (e.g. red-haired, Turian-trained, musical): 25–40 silver tarsks – Flat; buyers bored, not desperate
Pleasure-trained (dancing, singing, Gorean fluent): 10–25 silver tarsks – Dip; flooding the market after failed salon debuts
House-trained (cleaning, domestic): 5–15 silver tarsks – Stable; still the safe buy
Field or kitchen laborers: 1–5 silver/copper tarsks – Oversaturated; auctioneers skipping descriptions
Fresh capture (untrained barbarian): 2–8 copper tarsks – Barely worth the rope
Rating Trend:
Selnar: Still choking on barbarians. A few “gifted tongues” surfaced, but even those can’t pull top coin.
Ar: Carefully curating high-end stock; House leads pushing quality over quantity.
Port Kar: Too many raids, not enough refinement. Prices dropping, reputations sinking faster than their ships.
Caste-Specific Market Mood:
Warrior Caste: High demand for weapons, shields, and padding. Conflict brewing—word is a certain city insulted another’s Ubar’s mother.
Scribes: Archive records are selling briskly; recent uprisings have nobles rewriting history.
Merchants: Many shifting to inland trade routes to avoid Thassa chaos.
Initiates: Surge in incense imports from Turia. Temple renovations rumored to involve marble, gold leaf... and bribes.
Market Gossip & Forecasts:
Ar: A well-known House may be prepping a themed auction featuring only harp-trained brunettes. Expect masks and high bids.
Cos: Salt prices edging up. One vineyard reported blight—expect bland Kalana by next moon.
Port Kar: Black-market silk trade on fire. A scandal over misbranded bolts has left one merchant chained to his own stall.
Next Hand’s Hot Speculation:
“Siege rations and grease.” With tensions rising along the Thassa and inland roads less secure, stockpiling is already underway. Grease and grain might be the next gold.
Published by the Office of Economic Intelligence, Cos – For discerning Free citizens only.
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EROTICA SERIES VERSION 1.4
The sweat was dripping down his chiseled chest as his hand laced within her hair at the nape of her neck. He would pull her head back causing her throat to elongate as his lips descended upon her neck. Biting and nibbling, that large calloused hand groping and roaming, laying it's claim along her flesh. He could hear her bated breath, feel every time her little chest rose and fell as pert nipples sprung to life at his ministrations against her sunkissed flesh. Her naked form beneath him, wantonly, arching up to feel the warmth of his body against her needy little flesh. His hand slowly descended her taut stomach and down between her inner thigh before it rested right against her glistening vagina. The warm allure of his baritone, beating against her ear, making her groan out "Beg for what you want, Luna." Soft mewling erupting from the lips of the Free women that was ready to lose herself in the passions of the moment.
To be continued ....
[Anonymous Submission]
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2ND ED WORDSEARCH
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I sat puzzling over what should be addressed, but then I thought about what has been on your minds, instead of my own. What will our people care about?
Controversy surrounded our presence at The Thing, but my heart swells with pride, for it was a resounding declaration of Cosian tradition, honor, and strength. It was that very strength that inspired the religious conversions of two free people, which is truly a testament to the compelling might of our heritage. As a community, we now bear the joyful duty of guidance. After the public conversion this Friday, the Ubarate will begin interviewing Southern guardians or families willing to adopt and mentor those converting. Those selected will receive a one-year stipend and support from the White Caste to ensure a strong foundation is built.
This momentum echoes far. I have felt deep pride as I witnessed citizens across all castes and subcastes rise to meet these defining times. From warriors defending our name in combat to scribes leading impassioned debates to merchants whose innovations have ignited trade and inspiration. Your efforts and your voice are seen and heard. In response to the needs of the people, I have personally undertaken the task of sponsoring the revitalization of our agricultural fields and underground tunnels. These efforts, born of your suggestions, shall further the prosperity of the lower castes.
Lastly, To those who have shown such thoughtfulness and care during my pregnancy, I offer my sincerest thanks. As the Ubar’s companion, I carry not only his offspring but the future of his line born upon Cosian soil. The joyous arrival will be any day now and I feel blessed by the Priest Kings that it is this city that will help mold each future child we have.
In service to the Empire and all its people,
Lilian Aurelise Levantis
Ubara of Cos
➤ Next High Council Meeting: TBD
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From the Editor's Desk:
*.*.*.*.*.SO WE ARE AT WAR.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.
⚓ Loose Lips Sink Ships
When we reported that we were at war with the "Liars, thieves, outlaws, pirates... The scum of GOR". from Port Kar on the (06/02/20205) in our first edition Our Ubar wrote that he had never "seen a people so united, so strong, and so loyal as ours. On every corner of our city, on every dock, in every workshop and on every wall, I see men and women who carry in their eyes the living flame of Cos" and it is was with pride i read this; it was this that made me sure i wanted to do the 'Home Stone' ceremony myself. We reported our Ubar's confirmation that there had been a first victory and that we the Glorious Empire of Cos had achieved an early triumph which made me feel safer and more assured in my choice and want to do more for my city. I do however wish to remind you of his words of caution "Port Kar still breathes, still plots, still dreams of our riches and our routes" and we must be careful even the kajirae of Cos must be aware that "loose lips do sink ships" and worse.
We the Kraken Crier urge "All citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious strangers without delay" we would like to take this warning one step further than "loose lips sink ships" This adage is one that in many ways has been forgotten because we have not had to do this in some time, the truth is that whispers and careless talk is entirely responsible for information arriving in the ears of the enemy. Those in high power guard their strategies and tactics, and share information with care, providing rutters for maps, misinformation and using surreptitious behaviours and subterfuge in their dealings, for our protections and relating to their informations. However, we the people must be cautious in spreading rumours or even the smallest of knowledge to strangers, the overly cautious, even when perhaps having had more than one too many in the Tavern or Inn, or to that beauty in the alcoves.
The laws of Gor are clear:
Law 58. The principle of “conduct indicating suitability for the collar” deals with conduct by a free woman sufficient to warrant her reduction to slavery. It is commonly applied to fraud, theft, indigence, vagrancy, prostitution, and indulgence in sensuous dance. Other behavior which might trigger the principles includes attempting to spy on masters and slaves" this spying can be for any reason not just for the thrill of watching activities but because the spying on Masters does cover the covert spying of espionage.
There are of course spies from the city you are at war with and then there are the spies from your own city! i know what a shock! yes there are some in every city and they are authorized by the City Administrator, they are watching the populous and people coming in on ships. They are highly unlikely to be known as ''such' although I am aware of one reputed spy who is in our Enemies quarters who is reputed to have his own network of kajira and free persons, potentially they owe him their life or money, and instead they report into him on the events from around Gor, so there is the rub, These 'gray ones' are unlikely to be wearing 'gray' announcing they are of the caste of spies, they are the ones that are invisible the kajirae, the butcher, the baker the candlestick maker, the merchants who travel freely, the physician who has free passage, or in the case of the most famous Map Maker who who worked to those in power across Gor, 'Ar the Map Maker' he worked for 40 Gorean Years and made a comfortable living from it but even retired a wealthy man after mapping most of the cities of Gor in his time. In fact i am told we can still find these maps in some of the libraries of Gor, although they are long out of date.
My point is that 'Ar the Map Maker' was an artist, so he would come to the city of choice or the one he had areed to map, sit himself and begin sketching, what people didn't know that the kajira he drew once they had been drawn would go out and scout the city and report back on where things were. It is documented that his kajira would speak to the local kajira and find out who was who, where the Administrator worked, ate, when he went to bathe. Basically compiling the secrets that could be used to 'compromise or force the free man' to tell what he knew.
Further by moving city to city he could spend time sat in different parts of the city and what is worse, no Warrior, no authority ever challenged him; the only one who did was a kajira. His own kajira would be looking for random doors, entrances to tunnels and perhaps cave entrances, for him to chart later, he apparently was a good portrait painter too and became quite collectible but what was not known was he was compiling maps of the towers and tunnels of old Gor! and passing them to the powerful leaders who were at war, warriors or Ubars for future strategic campaigns.
In Selnar recently we have seen the consequences of a Free Woman who was found having a map in Selnar recently:
I know it is the sometimes difficult to hold that piece of information to yourself, not spread it as rumor... but once again i have heard of a recent rumor that was shared with me that Port Kar has been leveled by our forces in a covert strike and they are now sat in ruins.... I am informed that this is not the case although we have not had official confirmation from our own authority! or those of Port Kar.
While it sometimes seems that we are hardly at war because we do not see the warriors of Selnar doing drills or marching around our streets in Selnar, we are assured our Ubar, Administrator and High Council have it all in hand, however we must play our part. One such lesson from 'Ar the Map Maker's Kajira' were all able to swim! ensuring that they could always swim away from land if there was trouble and they could make their escape! One does hope that all of our military men are expert swimmers and can chase someone trying to escape from our city by jumping into our waters to a waiting ship!.
We at the newspaper are more than happy to receive suggestions from the people, whisperings and rumors and liaise with those in power protecting your identity if you can see a weak-point in our city defenses.
Lady E.J. of Selnar
[Painting provided by Wicked by Design]
*.*.*.*.*.WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD*.*.*.*.*.*.*.
On Third Day, Third Hand, Month of Camerius, 10,175 Contasta Ar (June 1, 2025) a 'Security and Safety Advisory Notice' was issued to its members by the Physicians Caste this week following a physician being attacked by a 'group' known as the "Gates of Despair".
Initially it read quite harshly and accusatory, we at the Kraken Crier have sought to hear both sides however, we have not has the account of the physician who is currently still under medical attention at the time of this being written
We can confirm the Gates of Despair leader, Lady Alicia appeared to me as a lady wearing intricate clothes and jewellery and not at all the 'marauders' or 'band of ruffians' which i had heard they were.
They do in fact live in a feudal society and in a "castle or fortified city" and they are however more socially structured with deep societal controls and their own laws not those of Gor, like other places, in Gor. She advised that her castle..represents law and order in the northern forest and we are official trade partner of Turmus"
Clearly Merchant Law continues to hold in this place, trade and wealth is obtained through power, meaning the kind at the head and then the lords swear fealty to the king and down through social hierarchy, until you get to the surf at the lower end. This surf or peasant owes his Master a tithe for being allowed to work the land and then a % of his wealth, then the baron will do the same and eventually a good % of wealth ends up with the king. However this depends on the King holding power, and he does this by strength and warlike society. The Kraken Crier have discovered that this groups attack of a physician was at Secret Bay, Such an action is unheard of in the history of Gor due to the nature of Physicians being protected for their medical assertions to heal and do not get involved in scuffles and it is by all accounts an accidental occurrence of the physicians own making.
The Gates of Despair' are led by a well spoken, elegant and amenable Lady Alicia, and she strode through the city of Selnar with no issue at all, she arrived with no guards and had no fear whatsoever in being in the city, she came to discuss what i had originally proposed for an article which was full of the original accusations laid at her feet by the PCoG*. It was true that indeed her profile states " All good roleplay starts from surprise, combat and conflict." but she also came to tell me to tell me that "there is no land rights in the northern forest....its not like in cities, where laws ensure land rights" meaning that you buy land in the Northern Forest you should expect these skirmishes and other visitors and you should be prepared to stay safe by also having warriors, and being able to stand your ground not just against them but against all the forces Lady Alicia also stated that "no-one knew who they were and they had no way to protect themselves so obviously those who sold them the land tricked them".
Normally the group of 'Gates of Despair' do not venture more south than the Northern Forest but it appears that due to the number of incomers, the Lady stated the "place is full of pirates, panthers and armies of local warlords trying to control trade of rare resources.." Lady Alicia confirming therefore that the resources of the forest are becoming more rare. Therefore, there is a need for resources which requires expansionism. It is this which is forcing greater conflict in to new areas, so if these people returned to a family farm to reuse it then they were unaware of the current scenario.. It is understood that the Gorean Merchant's Association have awareness of this group and have in fact been experiencing similar incidents on their members but mainly localized in the Northern Forest area but they have not accounted as to why this is happening which we at the Kraken crier have uncovered.
That said the Gates of Despair members were on this occasion engaged with another group in a battle nearby the location to where the physician was to become injured. "we were involved in siege of pirate port" said Lady Alicia.
This lady has spoken to me directly and advised that the people who had set up their home, had done so without knowing the informal rules of the Northern Forest or the dire pressures on resources.. The whole of the forest is far more aggressive than its appearance, fauna and flora would suggest.
It might look like an excellent location to raise bosk or animals and perhaps the idyllic life of an agrarian farmer a beautiful place but not as safe as it looks. She advised that people who want to live in a peaceful place should be somewhere else, not in the Northern Forest, "yes, there are many neutral places where they can go...most of them are open for merchants....but they should definitely not walk around" certainly not be unaccompanied or attempt to live there without making provision for their own security, I did ask if these people would if they swore fealty be able to be protected and was met by short but clear understanding "I don't want to protect people, it exhausts our resources" and subsequently followed it up with "they need to protect themselves or establish relations with local powers....the best would be just to trade to one of such fortresses or perhaps they can make a close association with a panther group, which some do".
In truth when the Physicians of Gor (PCoG) issued to warn their members after the Lady Physician was harmed, what should have happened is the warning should be told across Gor long ago. Then perhaps these 'gentle folk' would have avoided purchasing land in the Northern Forest and moving into that location which before then had been considered a " no mans land". It is clear that unless you are a warrior or better a band of warrior is this is the only way you will survive in this place.
PCoG have overly fed the fear of this matter, This group has nothing to do with the cities of Gor, and had the physician not have sought to get nosy and walk over the land to where the noise came from alone, even if it was to see if she could preserve lives of those in the battle, she would not have been harmed. Lady Alicia tells that "she should have used boats and travel between trade docks, walking around there would have end for her with collar or wounds like she got".
On a positive note, we are informed that the Lady Physician who was injured is now doing much better and is recuperating with friends well away from the Northern Forest where she is safe and doing better we at the Kraken Krier wish her health and wealth and future happiness,
E.Jinxing
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Soon, Free Women will be invited to gatherings at the palace designed to foster camaraderie, share wisdom, and help our younger generation navigate society with confidence and pride. If any male or female would like to be a guest speaker or host. Send a request to the Ubara.
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Don't miss out on the upcoming Kajuralia, hosted by the slaves of Selnar on July 12th and 13th. In celebration of joy and mischief, may we all come together in good spirit and shared mirth.
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-Lady Kaela
Editor
◈━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◈ H I GH C A S T E N E W S ◈━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◈
⚓ Initiate:
◦𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠◦
Citizens of Selnar that had attended the recent Thing in the North have reported being accosted by Torvaldslanders, despite peacefully attending the event. The High Initiate had even won a tournament involving the game board Berserker, and the host of the event denied him his reward for this victory. The mere presence of an Initiate offended them, so, why must we tolerate their ilk here?
◦𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧◦
A number of individuals have approached the Temple and have requested a conversion ceremony, abandoning the falsities of Odinism, and embracing enlightenment that is the Divine Priest Kings. We will welcome them to the fold with open arms.
◦𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐦𝐮𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞◦
An Initiate from Turmus has visited Selnar to meet with the White Caste of Selnar. They have invited Selnar once Turmus' temple is rebuilt to come visit it.
○ 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐚𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐬 ○
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INTERVIEW WITH THE HIGH INITIATE
[14:11] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| The High Initiate turns from the altar to face Elphie as she approached, tilting his head slightly as he looked at her.
[14:11] Elphaba Jinxing: Tal Blessed One
[14:11] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| Varkas nodded her way, "Yes, Tal. How may I be of assistance?"
[14:12] Elphaba Jinxing: I wondered if the chief initiate is around, i have tried contacting him but i am not having much luck
[14:12] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "I am the High Initiate of Cos. Varkas Maledictus Sanctus, you may call me Blessed One, or Your Eminence."
[14:13] Elphaba Jinxing: Oh marvellous!! I am sorry your Eminence
[14:13] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "I understand you have some questions for me? Unfortunately my time is limited, but I will answer what I am able to."
[14:14] Elphaba Jinxing: You see i am a writer for the Kraken Crier and well since the 'thing' and the activities there i have been asked to try to gain a further understanding of the actions that happened, i am more than happy to come back at another time if we can arrange it?
[14:15] Elphaba Jinxing: We have quite a while before we publish but i would also like to put some of the more 'normal' questions which people have given me to ask you
[14:15] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "I have some time available now - though, I may be called upon soon. Go on, ask me your questions, and I will answer what I can. If I must pause, we may resume another time."
[14:17] Elphaba Jinxing: Well we understand at 'recent thing' there were some executions by burning can you explain how this occured?
[14:19] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "There were no executions at the Thing." He clarified, "The ... burnings that was spoken of, occurred here, in the city of Selnar."
[14:20] Elphaba Jinxing takes our her quill and scroll and pauses over the paper..."they were heretics?"
[14:21] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus "Yes, both individuals that were burned, were heretics. The first one went by the name of Jedikiah - I met him here in Selnar. He attempted to kill me as I was investigating another for selling a heretical idol here in the markets. He attempted to stop me from performing my duties... and take my life. He failed."
[14:22] Elphaba Jinxing: wow, you fought this man off your Eminence?
[14:24] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "Of course not. I am barred from violence - I cannot shed the blood of others. My ... associate, Kingfisher, and two valiant warriors of Selnar stopped him. The warriors names are, Sergeant Gunn, and the Praetor of our city. Once he was defeated, he was taken into custody. He was interrogated, and then sentenced to death. I had his pyre constructed, and in the end, the holy blue flames consumed him before the very eyes of the cities populace."
[14:25] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| Varkas rolled up his sleeves to show the scars upon his arms, where he was lacerated by the heretic.
[14:27] Elphaba Jinxing: "i personally have a great reverence for your role and of course the Priest Kings" sees the Blessed Ones injuries !! Oh my heavens!!! they look so bad!!?" looks worried and genuinely concerned!
[14:27] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "The injuries have since healed, courtesy of the Physicians of Selnar."
[14:29] Elphaba Jinxing: "well thankyou for clearing that up, rumour is often the worse form of information!.... in addition the most overarching question from the people of Selnar can be summed up by 'Who is the man behind the smoke?" where were you born?, were you always a Blessed one? if not what was your caste?
[14:30] Elphaba Jinxing: I think perhaps it is to try to make a closer association to you as a Gorean, a man of the revered Priest Kings and of then people?
[14:31] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "I was born in the Empire of Cos, within this very city. I know not of my natural parents. I was brought up in the White Caste since I was a child. I have walked this path ever since. It takes a great deal of discipline, following White Caste traditions to be able to commune with the Priest Kings..."
[14:32] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "So to answer your question, I have been upon this holy path for a very, very long time."
[14:34] Elphaba Jinxing smiles it is indeed a life of dedication but i understand you are not alone in your life? there is a companion? it is a general understanding by the lay freemen that Initiates do not companion? are we wrong?
[14:36] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "I have never had a companion, nor will I ever have one. It is important to maintain purity - to be touched by a woman, or lay with one - taints us."
[14:37] Elphaba Jinxing: Oh dear looks like there is more rumour , perhaps Ivy Amethyst is misinformation.....let me make a note....
[14:42] Elphaba Jinxing writes down not companioned and considers women as capable of tainting esp. by being touched by a woman or to lay with one........hovers a little nervously looking at the next question..... "well i am embarassed to ask you this, but i am afraid enquiring minds wish to know ......if it is to be tainted to lie with or be touched by a woman,.... lets say some of our more based readers who perhaps are not so educated or delicate would wish to know...." shuffles uncomfortably
[14:43] Elphaba Jinxing slowly breathes in and for a second pauses......and nods as if to tell herself to just say it " is it to be tainted to be touched by or sleep with men?".....
[14:44] Elphaba Jinxing winces and closes her eyes.......
[14:44] Elphaba Jinxing opens one eye and looks at the man who is most stern and whispers "sorry to ask"
[14:45] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| Varkas looked annoyed now, angered even as he stared at her, when she asked the question of men, Varkas grimaced; he looked disgusted. "I refrain from any, and all sexual activity. Period. Make sure to have that highlighted, and printed in bold."
[14:47] Elphaba Jinxing: "i absolutely will your Eminence and trust me i am brave enough to ask for the people who would wish to know such things, it is my caste code to be brave but there is no intention to offend.....and it is not my own question"..... exhales "thankyou for making that plain!"
[14:48] Elphaba Jinxing: "I think we have covered the questions, is there anything you wish me to tell the people of Selnar?"
[14:52] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| A deep exhale was taken as he stared daggers at Elphie. He had an idea that, that particular question probably came from Chrystos. Who else would ask something like that?
When asked if there was something he wanted to tell the people of Selnar, Varkas considered. "The temple invites the citizens of Selnar to make their offerings, and if there are those whom follow the heretical path - I offer them conversion and amnesty, so long as their conversion is genuine. I burn only those who give me no choice. One of the main reasons I went to the Thing, was to function as a missionary, to convert the lost peoples of the North - and bring them... enlightenment."
[14:54] Elphaba Jinxing: "oh i shall be sure to include all of that your Eminence, *does a little bow* however it occurs to me 'if you are burning people which causes fear, how to do you expect them to come to you with their problems or for the religious instruction which only you can provide? how does fearing you going to make your more approachable and reachable for the average Gorean?"
[14:57] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| "Selnar must stand strong in the face of heresy - I protect this cities spirituality and integrity through my actions. I will not let heresy find root here and fester. I will see it uprooted and cleansed by the purity of flames. May the heretic fear me, may the citizens of Selnar love me. I will die for them, if I must."
[15:00] Elphaba Jinxing: "well on that note which is very strong and indeed powerful i think we are done your Eminence, this will be properly written up and will not show you in any light but a in the light of truth to your words and i shall indeed ensure those words are clear regarding the uncomfortable question... and thankyou very much for your time today"
[15:01] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| Varkas dipped his head towards Elphie, "Indeed. Have a blessed day, and offer your caste, my... gratitude."
[15:04] Elphaba Jinxing: "I shall pass that forward and i hope to make it to the temple soon"......:"safe paths blessed one, wherever you do walk!
[15:04] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus -| Varkas resumed his temple duties on that note.
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➤ Next White Caste Meeting: TBD
⚓ Scribe:
It is with great pride and delight that this reporter brings update of the successful Selnari Disputation, organized by our Assistant Head of Caste, Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ. We have had four debates, so far, with the semifinal to follow very soon. Keep your ears peeled to the announcements yet to come. The spectators and participants who came from far and wide to our illustrious forum added to the excitement and success of the debates. We, the scribes of Selnar, express our gratitude to all those who attended and participated.
MATCH I ~ Lady Winter Sage Reins VS Lady Ethereal Moonchild Rhenara
"The Caste System, not the Home Stone, is the true foundation of order in Gorean Society."
Winner of Debate: Lady Winter
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SELNAR DEBATE - WINTER VS. ETHEREAL MOONCHILD RHENARA
[18:12] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) | The scent of myrrh clung to the stone, subtle as memory. Beneath the open vault of the Selnar Forum, where the sky itself served as witness through the oculus roof, Cornelius stepped forward. Light blue robes draped from his shoulders in silken folds, hem whispering with each measured step. The bronze of his ceremonial kilt caught the fading light; the wreath of bronze sat cool upon his brow. In his hand, the cerulean staff struck the ground softly, a pulse of authority wrapped in wood and will.
He cast his gaze across the half-circle of benches where citizens and guests gathered, murmuring, shifting, expectant. The air was not yet tense, but it was keen, like a page waiting for ink.
“People of Selnar,” he began, voice smooth and resonant, “Today we enter no court of law, nor council of war, but a forum of minds. The Selnari Disputation opens not with clamour, but with contemplation. What, after all, truly binds our world? Is it caste, the unyielding spine of duty and rank? Or the Home Stone?
[18:12] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) shouts: That silent, sacred weight that holds meaning to our hearts?”
He paused, allowing the words to settle like dusk upon the dome.
“I introduce to you the two scribes who will share verbal jousting in this arena!” he called out. "For the Affirmative, Lady Rhenara Valen, a budding scribe inclined towards the judicial studies. And for the Negative, we have Lady Winter Reins, scribe and clerk of the Magistrate's Office. Each debator will have three rounds to debate. An opening, a rebuttal and a conclusion."
He looked around, taking in the various people arriving now, before his gaze rested upon Rhenara, nodding his head to her.
"Without further ado, let the debate begin. Lady Rhenara Valen of the Scribes, you are called to affirm the statement, 'The caste system, not the Home Stone, is the true foundation of order in Gorean society.' For those entering, please take a seat and grant audience to the voice of the Scribes."
He took a step back and then made his way to the cushions, seating himself next to Ava.
[18:14] Faustus Adrastus (arena.mode) took his place along the wall of the circular chamber. Being armed for his duty, Faust didn't want to fiddle with his kit enough to sit and opted, instead, to play peacemaker just in case things got a little too heated. After all, this was an incendiary topic, one that might very well piss a lot of people off.
Traditionally, it was Home Stone before caste but there were certainly arguments to be made to the contrary. He'd heard them before but not in such a proper setting and so assumed a thoughtful expression as he awaited the beginning of the adversarial rhetoric.
[18:16] Ava Edricsdottir (fawn.starling) sat poised on a plush cushion, her veiled gaze sweeping over the gathering free folk, then to Cornelius as the evening’s debate loomed, thrumming with anticipation for the verbal sparring to come. The presence of everyone gathering and the two debating ladies, their poised intensity already sparking the air, fueled her enthusiasm for the event. “Ladies of the debate, you’ll both shine tonight. I’m eager for a dazzling clash of wits between you.”
[18:16] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) smiled politely behind her veil at those acknowledging her, before quieting, pad of rence and writing-stick ready to take notes on her opponent's opening.
[18:18] Ethereal Moonchild Rhenara gently climbed up the stairs after giving a nod to Cornelius and her colleague Winter. Her gaze scanned her fellow colleagues and those gathered before she began, "Dear esteemed colleagues, today I am standing before you defending a position that will challenge our beliefs about our civilization. I am here to argue that the caste system in our world and not the homestone is the true foundation to our society"
She paused allowing her statement to settle controversial, "While many hold that the home stone is sacred and I do not dispute its importance spiritually. I am proposing that this blinds us to a fundamental truth. The emotional and symbolic power of our homestone relies entirely on the practical structure provided by our castes. Without our caste system even the strongest of strong homestone's loyalty will fall to chaos."
She continued, "Consider our daily lives. When we wake up every morning, each of us know our roles based on our caste. We understand our relation with warriors,
[18:18] Ethereal Moonchild shouts: merchants and builders not through our homestone but through our castes. When a merchant negotiates with a physician, when a builder works with an administrator, all these interactions follow caste protocols, not inspired by our home stone, but our caste. The caste system is the actual provider for trade, governance and social mobility. It dictates us who may speak to whom, who may make decisions and how disputes must be resolved. Without this clear structure home stone loyalty is nothing more than shared sentiment with no practical and proper way to organize a properly functioning society!"
[18:21] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) had listened quietly to Cor speak even as her gaze look in those that had gathered to support the Scribes arguing for and against the topic. A dip of her head given to the warrior she had just watched at the sword tournament and then her gaze settled upon Rhenara as she took her place and began to speak.
[18:25] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) gestured gently with his staff towards the said, nodding his head to Rhenara's words. Then he turned to Winter and dipped his head to her.
“Lady Winter Sage Reins, the floor is yours, for the Negative!" he called out. "Speak now and show us the deeper root, if such there be, beneath the fabrics of our society.”
He then watched on, taking out a book and quill, making notes.
[18:25] Soha (pikka.boo) would slowly ascend the steps towards the hall, the crowds gathered. She paused at the door and noticed some of Deimos' blood on her dress, from where it had seeped from his wound. She cursed softly and entered, weaving through the crowds until she spotted a familiar figure. She nodded to Theron in a silent greeting as she took her side next to him and glanced ahead towards the women on stage to focus upon the debate.
[18:28] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) dipped her head to Lady Rhenara, a smile given to hear how well spoke the apprentice was before turning her gaze upon Lady Winter to listen to her rebuttal.
[18:28] Apple (appleblossom1977): Apple kneels in quiet reverence beside the Mistress Scribe, her delicate frame poised in a position of obedient grace. Her hands rest gently in her lap, fingers lightly curled, as if she dares not disturb the stillness of the moment. Her head bows low, the smooth curve of her neck exposed in a silent display of humility and devotion. Though she remains demure, there is an undeniable energy about her—an almost trembling excitement bubbling beneath the surface. This is a rare occasion for her, stepping out of the solitude where she typically tucks herself away. The presence of others, the soft hum of conversation all of it fills her with a quiet thrill, an electric pulse of anticipation. She is careful not to let her joy disrupt the serenity of her posture. But in the subtle quiver of her breath and the way her lashes flutter, there is the unmistakable essence of a soul eager to embrace the world around her, yet bound by the traditions that keep her kneeling—waiting, listening, and absorbing every moment
[18:28] Apple (appleblossom1977): with a quiet exhilaration.
[18:28] Ava Edricsdottir (fawn.starling) sat rapt in the forum, her veiled focus locked on Rhenara as she delivered the first affirmative, launching the debate with compelling force. Each word gripped Ava’s scribe’s mind, her quill gliding across rence to capture her thoughts on the robust opening. Silent, she let the discourse unfold, eager to see Lady Winter take the negative.
[18:29] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) shouts: Winter lifted from her seat and took place on the opposite side of her opponent, shuffling through scrolls before lifting her ice blue gaze to those gathered. “Good evening, Selnarians, colleagues, and especially to my esteemed opponent. It is an honor to be here today.” Winter settled the scrolls to the lectern, then smiled at her opponent. “The Home Stone, not the Caste System, is the cornerstone of our society,” Winter began. “Not only the Home Stone in and of itself, mind you, but the underlying identity that binds us together as Selnarians. As Goreans, really. Even for those of the North, who do not swear to a Home Stone, there is a general sense of unity that comes from being of the North, just as we in Selnar are unified as Cosians. As Selnarians.
But this underlying brother- and sisterhood is not the only importance. The Home Stone provides for us certain protections under the Law, particularly as free women. Truly, those who are not sworn to a Home Stone are considered…outlaws. In
[18:29] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) shouts: recent history, it has become more commonplace for people to change castes for any reason or no reason at all, citing lack of natural talent, incompatibility with colleagues, or even boredom as reasons for leaving.
Castes are tied to individual identity, but the Home Stone is tied to collective societal identity. Loyalty will go to those of one’s Home Stone before those of one’s caste. In times of war, for example, a warrior of one city may capture and enslave a free woman of the warrior’s caste of another city, and nobody thinks anything of it, but for a warrior to enslave a woman of his own Home Stone is significantly more difficult, and even when legally sanctioned is often frowned-upon. Clearly, the Home Stone is the basis of society.“
[18:32] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) nodded as she listened, her attention rapt upon Winter as she spoke, doing her best to keep her her own opinions regarding the topic to herself. But the thrill of the debate, and the educated arguments from them both kept her rapt attention.
[18:34] Gᴜɴɴ Rʏɴᴜs (gunn.asalia) worked his way into the entrance squeezing past those present, very likely kicking Not-Pom and Pru in the ass along the way as he situated himself near Faustus. Silently he'd lightly tap the High Admiral on the arm with the sealed scroll he had in his hand, not wanting to interrupt the babbling of the scribblers as they debated. The whole ordeal was certainly more words than he would ever like to use. He resolved differing stances on topics with steel. At any rate, the scroll was held there until Faust noticed and retrieved it.
[18:39] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) lowered his gaze briefly, lifting the small leather-bound ledger that rested upon his knee. With the stem of his stylus he turned to a clean page, its surface faintly textured beneath his fingertips. He wrote without haste, the long curves of his script deliberate, shaped by the cadence of his own thoughts rather than any rush of judgment.
He set the stylus back into its clasp and closed the book with a gentle press of his hand, the worn cover yielding slightly as if it too bore the weight of history. His eyes returned to the circle before him, where the hush of the Forum now grew again in anticipation.
There was no need to prompt the next step. The rhythm of the disputation had been struck. Each voice would rise in turn, shaped by conviction or cunning and now came the moment for each to press back, to answer the challenge laid before them. The rebuttals would follow. Cornelius waited, quiet in his seat, the staff at his side.
[18:39] Ava Edricsdottir (fawn.starling) sat poised still, her myriad of veils shielding her expression as Winter took her stance, delivering a formidable argument that matched Rhenara’s earlier vigor. She relished the strength of both debaters, her quill darting across rence to jot her thoughts. Silent, she offered each woman a subtle nod of respect, her veiled face a mask of impartial admiration.
[18:41] Ethereal Moonchild Rhenara smiled dipping her head politely to Winter, "My Lady, you speak of home stone protections under law for Free women and claim those unsworn to homestones are outlaws. But who enforces these laws? Who provides legal protections? Who maintains our legal framework?" she then gestured with her gloved hand to the gathered colleagues and the warriors, "It is our warriors, our Scribes, our trained magistrates, members of the caste system who are trained and skilled towards this. Yes, our homestone inspires justice but it's the caste trained citizens who enforce and create it."
"Your example of warframe is good, my Lady. A warrior might not enslave a woman of same homestone because this hesitation exists purely because of their warrior codes, caste ethics which create these bonds which passes beyond loyalties."
She paced again on the dias, "To further add, A physician trained in Ar can share knowledge with a physician from Ko-ro-ba or Thentis. Their loyalty is to their each homestone yet they can come
[18:41] Ethereal Moonchild shouts: to work together. Scribes from other cities can collaborate on scholarly works. Merchants establish trade agreements across cities. Again, these connections exist because of caste system not homestone loyalty. Our caste has existed and survived long enough when homestones have crumbled when a city falls to war. Our caste is what allows us to grow and continue our civilization surviving plagues and war" Rhenara pauses then breathing letting her controversial words to settle
[18:42] turnipsauce was listening to the debate, though a lot of it went well over her head. She was staring into space, enchanted by the rays that shimmered through the hall. How the dust particles seemed to sparkle had her in awe, though she was snapped out of it when she felt toes at her rear. Her head turned, only to be met with a hairy leg. Tipping her head up, she offered the tall man a half smile before she realized who it was. She glanced at the suspended scroll before turning her attention back to the speaker ladies to try and make sense of what they said.
[18:43] Apple (appleblossom1977): She peaked up at the Mistress Scribe , looking to see how much she was enjoying herself .. was this what scribes got up to everyday. They seriously needed more sun.
[18:43] Faustus Adrastus (arena.mode) didn't look entirely inspired by the position offered in favor of caste. Faust looked on with stony features, a small nod given in support of the other woman's position that favored Home Stone. His dark eyes would shift to Cornelius, wondering what that man made of the particulars of the issue. He had a feeling they were of a mind but he was curious to watch the man's reactions and try to piece together his own beliefs through them.
He glanced over his shoulder as the Quartermaster approached, giving him a sealed scroll. Faust would take it, nodding, looking around to make sure he wasn't drawing attention as he cracked the seal and quietly unrolled it. His neutral expression shifted into a look that mixed disappointment with surprise. He looked back to Gunn and gave another nod. When he turned back to the debate floor, Faust looked distracted and annoyed. He handed the scroll off to Sul, and gestured to Ezio, clearly intending for her to deliver it to him.
[18:46] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) lofted her brows slightly as she continued to listen, unaware that apple was staring at her to gauge if she was enjoying it. Of course she was enjoying it! This was the very thing that kept things interesting, despite one's own personal beliefs. Making people think was one of the core principles of free thinking.
[18:48] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) shouts: Winter listened respectfully to Rhenara’s argument and rebuttal, before looking out at the audience, and beginning to pace back and forth in front of the lectern. “My esteemed opponent poses a formidable argument. The idea that without our caste system, even the strongest of loyalties to the Home Stone would fall to chaos is a compelling argument.” She stopped, holding gloved palms outward. “But it is not reality. There are cities, such as Port Kar, who have existed for centuries without the structure of of the caste system beneath it. Though the stability and morality of such a society is questionable, even today they pose a formidable threat to their enemies. And they do this all, without castes.
Yes, the Warriors defend our rights and protections as Free Women of their Home Stone. But so, too, do other men. As Goreans, we follow the laws of nature, do we not? Could a man of the physicians or scribes not feel just as compelled to protect me as one of the warriors? Indeed, able-bodied men of all
[18:48] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) shouts: castes are to heed the call to protect the Home Stone in times of turbulence and war.
In order to join a caste, one only need speak to the head of that caste. But to become a citizen of a city? To be joined under a Home Stone. One must offer not just words.” She paused for effect. “They must offer blood.” The word -blood- echoed through the hall. “One’s caste mates do not offer bread, salt, and fire. It is those of the Home Stone that offer these things, as we have become one family. I am a scribe, and proudly so. Ink runs in my veins. But my veins…have bled on the Stone of Selnar. Thank you." Winter nodded, concluding her rebuttal.
[18:48] Random Cutie watched with an eagerness that stole her full attention, her eyes bouncing between the two debaters like pong balls at play. The Barracks slave didn't have much knowledge in matters of Home Stone and Caste, which, perhaps, was just as well. She wasn't permitted to speak.
The rustling behind her started small. Then came the nudge. Then came the wobble. Finally, she fell, tumbled sideways with a startled "Ooof!", hitting the steps in an ungraceful sprawl. Turning with a narrowed glare toward the side, the slave-without-a-name found herself staring at the Quartermaster; her nose twitched. Not-Pom gathered herself upright again, and turned back into the currently scheduled programing.
[18:51] Sᴜʟ (thefairesteyes) had been considering Winter's rebuttal when Faust handed over the scroll. It easily took her attention off the ongoing debate. As smoothly as the rolled parchment had been accepted from Him, His gesture thereafter indicated the Captain down the way. Not-Pom's tumble was fortunately recovered from by now. So, wordlessly and as quiet as possible, Sul meant to take a single step down to fetch towards Ezio's proximity. Hopefully, it'd be delivered without causing too much distraction from the Ladies in blue.
[18:53] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) gave no signal, no gesture of favour or disapproval. The final arc approached. Soon, the voices would quiet and only judgment would remain. His fingers curled once around the shaft of his cerulean pommelled cane. He waited for the kill.
[18:53] Scott Firanelli steps up to the slave girl and whispers, "psst. do you know of a city slave named August or Azar?"
[18:57] Apple (appleblossom1977): Apple sat among the esteemed scribes, her eyes darting left and right as the conversation whipped past her like a flock of startled birds. Every time she thought she grasped a point, the discussion veered in another direction, leaving her stranded in a sea of unfamiliar terminology and scholarly fervor. A small sneez escaped her and Apple glanced around nervously, hoping to act as if she was looking for the culprit. She shifted on her knees and lowered her head once, quietly she sat in her self made puddle of academic confusion
[18:57] ᴇᴢɪᴏ ᴀᴇᴛɪᴠs sᴍɪʟᴏᴅᴏɴ (ezio.sabretooth) took the parchment from Sul as the girl offered it. Ezio looked at it very briefly as he was clearly not interested in reading letters or notes, but he made out the main points of what it said and he folded it back in half then handed it back to the slave without a word. His focus was mostly on the two women who were debating, but Ezio was having a difficult time understanding what there was to debate. Clearly ot was the Home Stone that was the cornerstone of society or at least that was what Ezio believed. Anyone who felt otherwise was an imbecile or was at the very least power hungry and looking to bolster the importance of their own caste.
[18:58] Theron (sagunn): with Soha next to him he listened to the debate of Scribes and their mutterings of one over the other, his belief in the home stone bordered upon one enforcing the other. The Home Stone the rock, the Castes built upon it. There was truth in both sentiments yet one sought to contradict the other. The audience perhaps hung upon the outcome or listened to amuse themselves at this point. Who could say truly.
[18:59] Gᴜɴɴ Rʏɴᴜs (gunn.asalia) hadn't intended to upend the slaves, but their asses were entirely in the way of his far more important sandaled, free man feet. Had he even noticed that he'd given the barracks' slave a tumble? Not at least until she made a sound to go along with it, and he had shifted his gaze down to the girl and caught that narrow glare she sent his way. The expression she'd gotten in response was something along the lines of 'oh really?' before he'd moved on to passing that scroll to the High Admiral. If there were to be consequences for that ill-advised expression, they would come later.
Gunn gave a nod to Faust when he accepted the scroll and his own attention was on the High Admiral to garner his reaction to the contents of the missive as he read it. It was about what he anticipated it to be, and would follow the movements of Sul as she was made messenger to deliver the scroll to Ezio nearby, curious of the Captain's reaction to the news as well. No surprises there either.
[19:02] Faustus Adrastus (arena.mode) glanced up at the mention of Port Kar -- to invoke that city's name while they were at war was bold but he appreciated the point that the woman was demonstrating about the Home Stone. Faust looked between the two women and Cornelius who was playing the part of the unbiased mediator with practiced ease. It was difficult to scrutinize and gage reactions through all of those veils and Robes of Concealment so Faust looked to register the appearance of his men instead. They weren't exactly... academics but he appreciated their presence nonetheless.
He watched Ezio in particular as Sul stepped over and delivered that note, curious how he'd react to news of Aric's issue. Of course, when he read it, the man looked as if he'd just read a grocery list and immediately turned back to the debate. The captain's total non-reaction was enough to make him laugh quietly, which he was quick to stifle by clearing his throat into a fist.
Well, whatever. He'd go ream the Guardsman's ass after the debate had concluded.
[19:03] Soha (pikka.boo) would listen to the debates between both. She listened to the small nuances and the points, both women held weight to their words. Her gaze would meet with Theron's briefly before regarding the warriors, arching a brow at their interactions which she noticed. It made her curious and she was briefly distracted before glancing towards the two women upon the stage once more.
[19:04] Ethereal Moonchild Rhenara stood quietly hearing Winter's words. "You cite Port Kar, dear lady, but may I remind Port Kar is run by Captains, Pirates and thieves and they do have a code. It's builders maintains its structures and the physicians who treat their wounded. Port Kar may reject caste, but it cannot escape caste designation."
She paused then gently pacing across, "Even though every able bodies citizen answers a call to defend their homestone, but they do not abandon their caste. When crisis comes and war is at our door step, physicians tend to the wounded, builders fortify our walls, merchants help with the trade. Without these three castes serving as backbone to our warriors we may loose.
What differentiates our warriors from outlaws and killers, it's their structured warrior codes and caste traditions. Even in the ultimate test of Homestone, it's the caste which makes an effective defense against enemies possible. Otherwise these battles would be merely chaos and what it is to differentiates them from
[19:04] Ethereal Moonchild shouts: killers?"
She paused for a moment considering the words pertaining to blood and ink, "Your blood may have blessed the homestone, my lady, but it is our caste training that's enabling us to participate meaningfully in this disputation," she bowed then.
"My dear colleagues, I do not ask you to abandon the respect we have for our homestones, but I challenge you tonight to recognise reality. Our emotional attachment to these symbol exists, but it is truly maintained by our caste system. Cities will fall and stones may be shattered, yet we carry forward because of our esteemed caste members such as you all, who are persisting in their roles, rebuilding and maintaining our city. Homestone may touch our hearts, it's our caste which govern our lives. I conclude so that it's the caste system which is the true foundation to our society." she paused and bowed to the gathered assembly completing her statements.
[19:04] Sᴜʟ (thefairesteyes) played the patient game. She wasn't exactly certain if Ezio would keep the note or return it back to whence it came.-- so when He inevitably handed it back, it was grasped again quietly. A tiny dip of her head spoke the silent farewell. Thereafter, Sul eventually back-tracked to Faustus' vicinity once more. A glimpse to the Admiral's face meant to spy if He wanted the scroll back immediately or not. The likelihood she'd just stay on this lower step was high, rather than wrestle with the silk's length and risk tumbling when the debate reached its closing remarks.
[19:06] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) shouts: “I suppose, Lady Rhenara, that we could all lean upon castes as the cornerstone of our society. Surely, if I were to go off into the woods, in my heart I would still be a scribe, as I have been for the whole of my life. That is an identity that cannot be taken from me. My education. My skill. My love for knowledge. But… that is an individual identity. It is not dependent upon anyone else. Even if I were to be companioned, I would remain, as ever, a Scribe. But my Home Stone is what gives me purpose. What gives us -all- purpose. What history is there to record, without the Home Stone? Who is there to heal? What minds are there to inspire? The Home Stone gives us a purpose, a loyalty, a -reason- upon which we can focus our efforts. We all work together, contribute our unique skill sets toward this one goal: To honor the Home Stone, and uphold those sworn to it. One rock in a mountain is not the entire mountain. One drop in Thassa is not Thassa itself. It is a single thread in a larger tapestry. We must
[19:06] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) shouts: remember that our purpose, dictated by our caste, is part of the pattern of the larger design: The Home Stone. Thank you.” With that, Winter gave a nod of her head to the spectators, and a deep bow toward Rhenara, who had made a worthy opponent, indeed, before taking her seat. A deep breath was taken in through her nostrils, then fluttered her veils as she blew a steady stream of air outward, trying to calm her jittery nerves. It was over and up to the judges, now!
[19:08] Ethereal Moonchild Rhenara gave a respectful bow to winter and slowly stepped down. She would have wanted to continue on, it as an interesting topic, a controversial one, nevertheless. But, time was minimal (and the typist has to go to RL soon) She stepped down from the dias and headed towards the judges giving them a respectful nod.
[19:09] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) had no clue of the note passing that was going on behind her as her attention was drawn completely onto the well versed women who debated before them all. Both were educated and well spoken and she appreciated how hard it was to stand before them all and argue for or against something, despite one's own beliefs. And as both Lady Rhanera and Lady Winter concluded their positions, she would smile and nod, a silent affirmation for the women's educated words that had been shared this night, gloved hands lifting to applaud them both.
[19:09] Random Cutie dared another look towards the Quartermaster, which was not the brightest of ideas. Until she saw his look down at her, she could have lived in a land of fairy dust, where good things came to slave's that waited. Unfortunately, that wasn't going to be the case, with a small wince, Pom'less looked away. The debate was still going strong, but she was distracted when Sul passed before her, and followed the Admiral's slave till she ended up by the Captain. For a sometime she watched that instead of the women. They were loudly speaking over so that the Denizen could hear, so it was easy to multi-task. Seeing just what Sul had, her gaze veered their way back towards the Admiral. She hadn't seen a scroll on him before. Now that she had lost all focus to the debate, she was pulled over to where a laugh came from. With a faint furrow of her brow, the slave tilted her head, trying to piece together what the women below had said that was so funny.
[19:16] turnipsauce missed all the glances between Pom-less and the Quartermaster. She only sat, staring and was once again pulled in to the dancing particles in the air. The scroll held little interest, she was sure it wasn't Pbecky related. Letting out a soft sigh, she rested her chin on her knees and continued to zone out.
[19:20] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) turned her head, watching as Cornelius took to the stand once more, her brows lofting in interest. This was it ... the announcement and she was on pins and needles to hear what the judges' decision might be.
[19:20] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) rose with solemnity, his hands folded lightly before him, the gleam of his cerulean staff catching the amber light as it filtered through the oculus above. He then flicked his gaze to Ava and nodded his head to her.
“I have listened,” he said, voice low but measured, “not merely with the ears of a judge, but with the mind of a man who has served both caste and Home Stone. Lady Ava, join me as the co-judge for this first round of the Selnari Disputation.”
He took a breath, eyes passing from Rhenara to Winter and back again, his hand tightening its hold upon the pommel of his cane as he made his way towards the dais.
“Lady Rhenara Valen argued with insight and force, presenting a society scaffolded by roles, trained skills, structure and regulation," Cor spoke slowly, weighing every word before they parted from his lips. "She named the caste system the true foundation, the vertebrae of our shared order. Her vision was one of continuity, surviving fire and collapse, held firm by tradition. The
[19:20] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) shouts: articulation of her argument was noted. She argued for the hierarchical component of our society as the foundation. That keeps it rigid. It was a challenging position, to be sure. Who here would dare question the inviolable concept of the Home Stone, and yet... Lady Rhenara demonstrated true logic, pointed arguments and spoke clearly.”
He turned then slightly, to Lady Winter, dipping his head to her respectfully.
“Yet Lady Winter reminded us that even structure without meaning is a hollow edifice," he continued to speak. "She spoke of blood upon the Home Stone, of purpose bound not in craft, but in belonging. Her case was not a rejection of caste, but an assertion that all our labors are drawn to a greater flame. The very stone itself. However, her logic should have been more pointed on the origins of the Home Stone, showcasing why the Home Stone itself is considered sacred. Too, an argument was made that Port Kar does not follow the caste system, yet this, I believe is incorrect. Nevertheless, the
[19:20] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) shouts: argument was sound upon the basis of the Home Stone being at the heart of the society.”
He paused, cane gently striking the stone once.
“I must remind the audience that who is right or wrong is not entire based on the statement, but on the articulation of the argument," he looked around. "A resoundingly drawn argument from both parties. I look now to Lady Ava to share her thoughts as co-judge."
[19:22] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) turned her head to Lady Ava, eager to hear her thoughts on the arguments both women had made.
[19:23] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) pressed her lips together tightly from behind her veil. Cornelius was a difficult one to please, and she knew it would not be easy to impress him. She nodded to herself, taking notes as to his critiques of the weak points of her arguments.
[19:28] turnipsauce blinked her vision back into focus and crinkled her nose to herself as she eyed the door. Quietly, and hopefully without much fuss, she would crawl toward the opening, squeezing by people until she was out in the open air.
[19:30] Random Cutie was close enough to catch the soft sigh that slipped from Pru, so she leaned over and gave her a light nudge. Hoping to get her attention she waited for however long that would take. The debate had lost its new sparkle for her anyway, so naturally she was people watching. One brow crept up, then the other followed, just a bit lopsided. It was clearly a question to ask what was wrong in the universally silent language of slaves. With a frown forming, NottaPom watched as Pru crawled out.
[19:31] Faustus Adrastus (arena.mode) nodded, appreciating Cornelius' appraisal and largely agreeing with it. It was difficult for Faust to enjoy the intellectual aspects of debate, however -- he was the sort that saw it difficult in looking past the rightness or wrongness of a point being argued, though he understood this exercise was more about how well that argument was construed rather than if it was right or wrong. At the end of the day, warriors were particularly emotional animals and though he had an interest in the headier realms of philosophy, well, Faust was a warrior.
[19:33] Ava Edricsdottir (fawn.starling) stood poised in Selnar’s grand forum, her veiled form aglow in the amber light as Cornelius’s solemn invitation to join him as co-judge for the Selnari Disputation’s first round stirred a surge of pride in her scribe’s heart. His measured critique of Rhenara’s structured caste argument and Winter’s evocative Home Stone defense, tempered by notes on their respective flaws, resonated with her own assessment, her admiration for his discerning judgment deepening. Rhenara’s logical rigor and Winter’s poetic fervor had captivated her, but Cornelius’s call for her verdict sharpened her focus.
“Cornelius, your wisdom guides us true,” Ava said, her tone a luminous spark, stepping forward to the podium with a fluid sweep of her robes, her veiled gaze sweeping the assembly. “Rhenara’s defense of caste as Gor’s backbone was a fortress of logic, her clarity on tradition’s enduring spine compelling, yet it stood rigid, lacking the soul’s fire. Winter, with her vivid tapestry of the
[19:33] Ava Edricsdottir (fawn.starling): Home Stone’s sacred blood and belonging, kindled that flame, her Thassa metaphors weaving unity’s heart, though her origins faltered and Port Kar’s caste claim missed precision. Winter’s argument, alive with purpose, sways me as the stronger voice. Her use of lore being that much stronger. And due so, I name her victor, in my mind, a scribe whose words burn bright for Selnar’s Stone.” She would look to Cor to see if his beliefs where in line with her own.
[19:34] Gᴜɴɴ Rʏɴᴜs (gunn.asalia) had sort of lost track of the debate as the warriors essentially passed notes. He'd take a moment to try and catch up as Cornelius gave his assessment of the two arguments, but with so many words, he'd sort of zoned them both out to some degree. Perhaps the fact that they were women played a small part in that as well? They were easy to tune out with he had more important matters on his mind.
[19:36] Apple (appleblossom1977): The debate raged on, a battlefield of words where scholarly minds clashed, their voices rising and falling in rhythmic waves of argument and counterargument. The scribes, animated in their discourse, dissected ancient texts, analyzed interpretations, and occasionally shot each other looks of triumph or disdain, their quills scratching furiously at parchment as thoughts spilled forth in ink. Apple, bless her well-meaning heart, had tried—truly, she had—to follow the intellectual duel unfolding before her. But the relentless stream of complex theories, citations from texts she had never seen, and the occasional dramatic flourish of hand gestures became a gentle lullaby of sorts. The steady hum of voices, the rhythmic tap of quills, the soft rustling of parchment all conspired against her battle for wakefulness. Her eyelids grew heavier with each passing moment, drooping like wilting petals. Her head bobbed once—twice—before she jerked upright with valiant effort. But even her determination had its
[19:36] Apple (appleblossom1977): limits. Eventually, gravity won, and her chin came to rest against her chest. A soft sigh escaped her lips, and soon, the delicate rhythm of peaceful breathing signaled her surrender. Unaware or perhaps unbothered by her quiet retreat, the debate continued, words swirling around her like a storm she had no choice but to sleep through. And there she remained—lost to dreams, blissfully adrift in a sea of scholarly passion she had tried so hard to sail but, in the end, had simply let carry her away.
[19:37] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) glanced between the two debators and then on to both Cornelius and Ava as they both gave feedback. Upon hearing that Ava believed the arguments of Lady Winter had won the debate, her gaze would then jerk back to Cornelius to garner his final judgment, clueless about who else, truly was within the senate building.
[19:37] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) exchanged nervous glances with Rhenara, anxious to see if Cornelius agreed with Ava's decision. She was hesitant to celebrate, just yet!
[19:42] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) did not rush, for final judgment must never be hurried. The silence of the Forum leaned forward.
“People of Selnar,” he began, voice calm and deliberate, “we have heard the contest of minds, the echo of quills and voice sharpened into blades. It falls to Lady Ava and I now to offer judgment and we do so with the full gravity that such a task deserves.”
He glanced between both debators, gaze lingering with respect.
“Lady Rhenara Valen argued what is, in truth, a most difficult position," he highlighted. "To advocate for caste over Home Stone is to place the tangible above the sacred, the function above the flame. Yet she did so with clarity, poise and a rare depth of insight. She reminded us that the caste is not merely an occupation. Yet, she could have argued that caste is also the codex by which families are ordered, traditions passed and duties inherited. That the quiet truth that the caste system carries within it is the architecture of Gorean life, and by extension, the very rhythm of
[19:42] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) shouts: our cities. She did touch upon this, but doubtless she could have gone far deeper.”
He inclined his head slightly, acknowledging her effort.
“Nevertheless, the contest was not only about what sustains us, it was about what binds us," he continued. "And here, Lady Winter Reins offered something more than logic. She spoke of identity, of belonging and of sacrifice. Of blood. She reminded us that castes may structure our function, but it is the Home Stone that anchors our purpose. Her articulation of the Home Stone not as mere symbol, but as the shared soul of a people, turned the argument.”
He raised the staff once, letting it fall gently to the stone, the ferrule of his cane resounding loudly in an echo within the domed forum.
“For these reasons, it is my judgment that the victor of this disputation is Lady Winter Reins.”
He stepped back and bowed deeply to both, adding, “Let neither woman walk from this place thinking she has lost. The strength of the Scribes is proven when its voices
[19:42] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) shouts: challenge even the foundations of our world. May this be a reminder that we all must sharpen our minds just as often as the Warrior sharpens his sword. I am grateful for your attendance, but allow me to officially close the first round of the Selnari Disputation. The next round is to be confirmed and will be disclosed in the near future. I wish you all well!”
[19:44] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) stood to her feet and began to applaud for both women, despite that a winner had been named. "Well done, ladies! Well done both of you!" she called out to them.
[19:44] Ethereal Moonchild Rhenara dreaded the word /controversial/ but it was what it was. A bane for those who shared her caste, to speak logic. Quietly she stood observing the judges and their verdicts were duly welcomed, their points noted. "I thank you for the opportunity to speak tonight. It was exciting." she said turning her attention to Cornelius, Ava and Kaela, Head of Caste. "It was truly inspiring and exciting to be part amongst you. I am thankful that Selnar encourages debates and welcome it," she dipped her head. She then moved towards Winter, "Good argument, Lady," a subtle dip of her head was offered before she turned on her sandaled foot planning to head towards the Scribe Hall.
[19:45] Soha (pikka.boo): The sound of Kaela's applause roused her slightly. She had zoned out for the latter part of the discussion. But out of support for the two speakers, she would join in, her callused hands meeting in enthusiastic unison.
[19:46] ѕᴏƖɪƖᴏϙᴜу ʙу ᴘяᴏxу (ariasaint) Zaphori applauded politely, but seeing the ahn she was stepping out quietly to head home.
[19:46] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) smiled broadly, perhaps for the first time in a long time! Winter, who was used-to being given sidelong looks of disapproval or being flat ignored, had a moment, now, of victory. Of pride. Her chest puffed outward and her chin lifted high, she turned to Rhenara and gave a nod of her head. "Good argument, Lady. I was certain you had bested me. I was honored to debate you. You made a worthy opponent."
[19:47] Apple (appleblossom1977): The sudden clap of hands and triumphant shout from the Mistress Scribe shattered the fragile peace of Apple’s slumber like a thunderclap on a quiet night. Her body jerked upright, eyes wide with sleepy alarm as she blurted out a startled, "Here!"—as if she had just been called upon in a lecture she hadn’t studied for. For a moment, she sat frozen, blinking rapidly in an attempt to shake off the haze of sleep and make sense of her surroundings. The scribes were clapping, nodding in satisfaction, parchment rustled as notes were gathered, and quills were set aside. Was it over? Had they reached a conclusion? Had something profound been decided? Apple stared at the faces around her, searching for answers while still fighting the lingering drowsiness clouding her mind. She rubbed at her eyes, sitting a little straighter, trying to pretend that she had been alert the whole time. But the warmth lingering in her cheeks betrayed her embarrassment. Still, she had somehow managed to wake up exactly at the
[19:47] Apple (appleblossom1977): moment of victory, even if she had no idea what had actually been won.
[19:47] Faustus Adrastus (arena.mode) "Well done," he would call to them both as the elder scribe called an end to the contest and rendered decision. Faust, however, was a bit distracted by internal matters of his own caste. He turned to Gunn and gestured to the exit: "Quartermaster, with me," the admiral would say, meaning for the man to follow him. If he did, he wouldn't stop until he got to his office unless halted by someone else, expecting Sul would follow.
[19:48] Sᴜʟ (thefairesteyes) later joined the applause following the victor's announcement. Only now did she recognize that Lady Winter was the very same that had been in a verbal spat with the banker Aulus in previous days. Obviously, the Lady had a knack for this thing! Faustus' voice above her gradually ceased that clapping. The woman's chin lifted to watch Him; and with the scroll still tucked in the crook of her elbow, Sul would likely depart sometime after the two Men.
[19:49] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) rises from her seat and applauds the winner. Fire thought they both did a fine job debating. That seemed like a tough call to have to go contrary to the Home Stone for all that it means to us Goreans. Looks over to Trenzos "Thank you for the invitation Cornelius. It was a very fruitful debate, indeed. I must take my leave now. I will be seeing you very soon. I wish you and all the rest of the free well and safe paths and to the beasts, serve with passion"
[19:50] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) dipped her head to Lady Firefly as she took her leave. "It was good to see you once again, Lady Firefly. I do hope to catch up with you soon," she told the woman.
[19:50] Gᴜɴɴ Rʏɴᴜs (gunn.asalia) gave a couple of claps against his chest to applaud. Was it for the winner, or for it all having come to an end? His attention went to Faust though as he called him by rank and ordered him to follow. "Sir." he'd reply with a affirming nod and then would set off to follow him. Not surprised by this turn of events.
***-----------***----------***----------***----------***
MATCH II ~ Magistrates, Legion Dryden VS Abraham Jacobson
"Oaths to the Home Stone are eternal. A Free Man should never forsake his city and swear to a new Home Stone.'"
Winner of Debate: Legion Dryden
***-----------***----------***----------***----------***
SELNAR DEBATE - LEGION VS. ABRAHAM 6/11/2025
[16:04:32] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) nodded to him in gratitude. "With that, we’ll bring this meeting to a close and table the new items. Thank you all once again for your time, your efforts, and your continued service to the Caste of Scribes. I encourage everyone to attend the upcoming debate so we might show our support for our caste brothers who are participating. Let us be present, let us be proud, and let us continue to uphold the integrity and wisdom our caste is known for. Thank you all for coming."
[16:04:58] Sylvi Amour dips her head, "I wish you all well. I shall head to the forum at once"
[16:05:19] Velantha Lethara || The Archivist didn't seem thrilled with the outcome but would rise and make her way to the forum
[16:05:56] Ruqiya Mosely Nasrallah (pitu.pearl) gaze drifts across the room, her attention suddenly snagging on a lone figure on the other side. A faint flicker of recognition sparks in her eyes. Narrowing her eyes slightly, Ruqi studies her more closely, tracing the contours of her face. She didnt believe her eyes but holding the gaze with silent intensity, searching for any sign that her suspicion might be right.
[16:05:57] Elphie (elphaba.jinxing) nods a "you got this"
[16:07:54] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) sees more people arriving and clears her throat as she begins to talk
[16:08:03] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) "By the light of the three moons that grace our skies, and in the shadow of the Sardar Mountains where the Priest-Kings dwell, we gather today for the ancient tradition of scholarly discourse.
[16:08:13] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) nodded his head to Faustus
[16:08:20] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) "Esteemed members of the Caste of Scribes, honored representatives of the scrolls of Selnar and all others, I bid you welcome to this most venerable assembly of minds."
[16:08:36] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) "Today we continue a tradition as old as the Home Stone of Ar itself, where knowledge is tested not by steel but by the keenness of intellect and the precision of argument. As the tarn soars above seeking clarity in the vastness, so too do we seek clarity in the realm of ideas."
[16:08:39] Elphie (elphaba.jinxing) smiles to see Lady Kaela
[16:08:55] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) "Each debater will follow a three-part structure, including an initial statement, a counter-argument section, and a final summary."
[16:09:12] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) Let us proceed. I bring before you two prestigious scribes of Selnar, Legion Dryden for the Affirmative and Abraham Jacobson for the negative. Both are Magistrates of your esteemed city.
[16:09:22] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2) smiles seeing people coming in to support the scribers
[16:09:32] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) "Magistrate Legion Dryden, the floor is yours to affirm the statement 'Oaths to the Home Stone are eternal. A Free Man should never forsake his city and swear to a new Home Stone.'"
[16:09:35] Drevan of Cos (drevan.darkbyrd) seeing the Admiral outside the forum he quickly made a note for the man on wall and would place it under his shoulder cloak to find when he came out of it, Drevan is very sneky
[16:09:36] Apple (appleblossom1977): Almost let out a squeal when the plant seemed to reach out and grab her
[16:09:43] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) quietly but quickly made her way in to settle onto a spot so she could listen
[16:09:47] Elphie (elphaba.jinxing) does a subtle thumbs up
[16:09:52] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) Goes to take a seat with tablet and stylus in hand for taking notes.
[16:10:12] Ginger Amaranth would move to take a seat as she'd start to listen.
[16:10:13] Drevan of Cos (drevan.darkbyrd) the rustle of cloth and wood was heard followed by the cocking of the crossbow
[16:11:07] Sylvi Amour prepares to listen with attention to the debate between the two magistrates of Selnar.
[16:12:08] Drevan of Cos (drevan.darkbyrd) pointed Analise to two open spots by Sylvi and moved to take them
[16:12:51] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) smiles as she sees Analise and waves to her and Dreve and also Kaela then shifts her attention to Legion
[16:13:14] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) smiled and dipped her head to Lady Firefly upon seeing her again
[16:13:50] Analise Bade (chaoticenvy) nodded moving to follow him and take her seat nodding towards Firefly happy to see her.
[16:14:17] Drevan of Cos (drevan.darkbyrd) noticed Theron in the Crowd and made sure to make eye contact. Indicating with his face they needed to talk he then Saw Firefly and nodded to her lightly
[16:17:04] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) smiled and nodded. "Thank you Firefle, and thank you Abraham for joining me here today. Thank you to all of you who have come along to listen." He waved his hand to the crowd.
"A Home Stone is a Eternal just as a Home Stone is not merely a rock. A Home stone is a symbol, and is the heart of a city. It like many other things is more than what it is simply made of."
"As Gorean's our word is our bond. Without or word then we are nothing. If a warrior promises to do something and then does the opposite is he not without honor. If a man or woman agrees to a contract, and then goes against it, will you ever trust them again?"
"A Home Stone being like the sun, ever present, and our word being like the terrafirma on which we stand. When you combine the two, an oath bound in blood, to that ever present symbol, that cannot be rescended. That is a binding promose that is not undone. Swearing to a home stone is indeed, forever and always enduring."
[16:20:11] Theron (sagunn): Seen the look yet he would continue to listen to the debate, study the crowd. Listening and watching the people in the room.
[16:22:10] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: "Thank you Legion" Then tells Abraham "Please step up to the podium with your discourse on this very important topic."
[16:22:57] Sylvi Amour seeing a pani lady nearby, seeming to be unpacking things, distractingly, she'd sigh gently, but then turns back to watching the debate as Lady Firefly asks Abraham to speak next.
[16:23:17] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) watched quietly, her gaze moving from Legion to ABraham as she gave them both support
[16:23:18] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2): Looks to my those around me with a slight smile to disguise my nervousness pacing slightly to to get my mind working.
[16:24:08] Elphie (elphaba.jinxing) nods
[16:24:34] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2): An eternalbond to a simbol of what?
[16:25:00] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2): The village, which is usually palisaded, has its Home Stone, and the individual dwellings within the palisade are likely to have their own Home Stones, as well. There is a Gorean saying to the effect that in the holding of his Home Stone even the least of men is a Ubar. So we see right off that a man can swear to more than one homestone. So what is it that we swear too.
[16:25:28] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2): Commonality of Home Stone ,,,,. It is more analogous to brotherhood in the sense of jealously guarded membership in a proud, ancient family, one that has endured through centuries, a family bound together by fidelity, honor, history and tradition.
[16:25:45] Elphie (elphaba.jinxing) watches Abraham, and smiles..
[16:26:14] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2): Its not a common rock we are swearing too , like the one picked off the ground in one city. Its to the community, the family that we are bound too we are swearing too
[16:26:16] Ginger Amaranth would listen to the two men debate about the Home Stone.
[16:28:46] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) smiled , listening intently between the two scholarly men
[16:28:55] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: sees that Abraham is done, she calls out to Legion "Legion, you may proceed"
[16:33:12] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: For those who were not here for the introduction, Legion is in the Affirmative Position as he speaks about how no man can leave his Home Stone and Abraham has the Negative Position speaking of how a man can leave his Home Stone and swear to another"
[16:34:45] Sylvi Amour nods and nods, as she waits for Legion to state his response to Abraham's argument.
[16:38:31] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) shouts: "Thank you Abraham, for I agree with you, that commonality of Home Stone is jealously guarded, and that those of the same Home Stone are all equally proud to be part of a community. With centuries, even millennia of tradition. And this is why a home stone swearing is forever."
"Community is founded upon mutual respect, community is built on my word and your word, my actions and your actions. Falling out of that community is dire. You may be exiled and become an outlaw. As Gorean's we fear this most. To be caste out is almost certain death. For us with out stabilization serums who may indeed live forever. We fear our words being false and causing our community to reject us."
"This long standing community as you have rightly pointed out is the basis of a home stones power, its righteous symbol to us all of what we are together. And this is why wearing to a Home Stone cannot be undone. If I hide a book under a cloth, the book remains, it is still there. Just as words spoken, and an oath made,
[16:38:31] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) shouts: cannot be unsaid just because we leave the room in which they were spoken. They endure like us as Goreans and like our great city of Selnar."
[16:40:12] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2) smiles "Thank you Legion "
[16:40:28] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) listened to Legion, her gaze drifting back to Abraham as she remained neutral but she was proud that both of them were up there debating and doing the Blue Caste proud
[16:40:51] Ϯ Ƥｒı ɛ s է Ϯ (what.lastchance) arrived, he wasnt invited, but there he was
[16:40:54] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2) shouts: When a Gorean city founds a colony a new city, its usually as a result of overpopulation or political dissension Very much like what happened in Telnus when the warriors over threw the Administrator. The old scrolls tell us the potential colonists, typically, even before leaving the mother city, develop their own charter, constitution and laws and it will have its own Home Stone. So those in one city, leave to start another city with a different homestone and swear to the new one. So there are times like a bad government which many of you have deal with , some have to leave and start over swearing to a new homestone.
[16:41:00] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2) shouts: Takes a deep breath and begins
[16:42:24] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: "Thank you Legion and Abraham. We are now on to the final round with Legion stepping up with his final discourse"
[16:43:57] Sylvi Amour nods and nods in approval. Listens on, eager to hear what Legion has to say to that which is stated very well by Abraham. Her torso leaning forward some.
[16:44:06] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) nodded as she listening, preparing for the final round but her gaze would drift to the open door, seeing that Nameless warrior enter
[16:45:09] Ginger Amaranth continues to listen to the debate, both making great points in the second portion. She'd wait to hear the final arguments between the two.
[16:46:37] Nicholas Crisp eased down onto the cushion and looked around the room. Having heard the second round, he grunted, "hmmm." Though he had his thoughts regarding the last man's statements, he said nothing out loud, merely frowning and shaking his head. His vow to the Home Stone was unbreakable, in his mind, as much a part of him as his caste, if not more.
[16:47:49] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) shouts: "In summary. I have established that a home stone is itself eternal. Our word as Goreans forms the basis of our communal society. Like the land on which we stand."
"Words, objects, things do not simply disappearance if they are hidden, or we are not directly in their presence or looking at them directly."
"Therefore, for out communities, cities, society to continue its long history. We must consider that when a person speaks their oath before the home stone. That it is not a passing thing to be tossed aside. But it is an enduring oath, that does not die as we Goreans's stabilized and virile. Do not die."
"Therefore Oaths to the Home Stone are eternal. A Free Man should never forsake his city and swear to a new Home Stone."
[16:49:17] Ϯ Ƥｒı ɛ s է Ϯ (what.lastchance) had trouble coming his way
[16:50:26] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2) shouts: I just mentioned when an Administrator is currupt, people leave. I still have the image of the Ubar holding his head up , a symbol of a corrupt goverment
[16:50:39] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2) shouts: Since I mentioned that swearing to a homestone is like committing to a family a community ,not just a rock which symbolized the strength and durability of the community, What happens , if like in Varn today , there is no one left there but you. I was in that position. I was alone for two and a half months. Can i not go and swear to another homestone if i had sworn to it, who is my community in Varn? They all left! So I came here to be a part of this marvelous city. And i do not regret swearing to it and leaving my last city.
[16:53:48] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) applauded both mens efforts now that the rounds were complete, a nod of her head given to Abraham's passionate, true addition to his dbate
[16:54:27] Sylvi Amour believes Abraham had concluded his argument, she'd turn to Firefly. Then looks about a bit, wondering who are the judges and where they are sitting. Notices several warriors had come to watch, she'd nod and nod in approval, then turns back to look upon Legion and Abraham.
[16:56:16] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: "Thank you Legion and Abraham for your discourse. I'd appreciate everyone's patience as I assess the words of both scribes and soon will come up with a winner. Continues to scribble comparing both arguments.
[16:57:11] Soha (pikka.boo) approached the hall, following closely behind Priest. The journey from the bridge to the great hall was one she had taken before. They arrived shortly to listen to the remainder. This time it didn't seem to be as packed. She stood close to the warrior and his unusual companion, gaze shifting between the two speakers curiously as she listened.
[16:57:59] Nicholas Crisp stretched his neck from side to side to release the tension built up from such proclamations. Nic preferred his arguments to occur over monetary value. After glancing casually around the hall, he found something interesting. There, to his left, sat a most elegant woman. He stood and meandered through the rows of cushions and sat down next to her.
[17:01:44] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) turned to Abraham. "Thank you for taking the time to stand with me in this sport. I appreciate your time, and the effort you have gone to, this has been fun. Good Luck with the decision." He smiled and nodded to the man who had stood with him on stage during the event.
[17:02:54] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) nodded in agreement with Legion's words, her gaze taking in both men before turn to Lady Firefly to see what her final ruling was
[17:03:02] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2) nods and smiles, knowing i would defend my caste brother in battle if the city were attacked
[17:03:17] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2) shouts: Thank you brother
[17:04:43] waffles (lucigray) silent was silent, but she noticed how the many blocked the enterance...she took a step to the wall, to give leaway to entering the scribe hall, with the curiosity that killed the gaini echoed in her dark eyes. Her lips closed and the sound of crackling fires and the overfall of the waters the background. She had only caught the tail end of the debate, one to which , held wonderment to how city people beloved their statues and gods of the priestkings. Her lips fainted a smile. but it was short lived as she stood in her own little spot of the building. standing tall and without disbubance to their ongoing conversations and merely observed.
[17:05:09] Analise Bade (chaoticenvy) was listening and forming a list in her mind of things she needed to work on. As the man moved to sit next to her, she nodded towards him turning her attention back to the front as the men finished speaking.
[17:05:20] Ϯ Ƥｒı ɛ s է Ϯ (what.lastchance) watched as his good friend had arrived. They had a good talk, and now Priest had a purpose around Selnar. Listening to the screams and talks for the second time since arrival, he was at peace. Things were unfolding and he was gathering more of the present events. He nodded to his ol friend, then gave attention to the politics
[17:05:22] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) watched, having listened intently. "Lady Firefly, you know how to hold us all in suspense," he remarked. "A resounding argument from both sides."
[17:05:56] Amir Al-Jabali (duskborne) would quietly make his way through the crowd and find a spot in the back so that he could watch the debate.
[17:07:26] Ginger Amaranth had listened to the entire debate and had enjoyed both sides of the argument. She had no doubt that the ruling would be difficult to make. Either way it was interesting to hear from both sides of the argument.
[17:09:42] Nicholas Crisp fixed his gaze on Analise, finding her intriguing, to say the least. The nod was acknowledged in kind. Forums were no place for casual flirtations or talks of business, but he determined, in that moment, he'd add her to the list of free women he needed to speak with.
[17:11:45] Sylvi Amour turns to Drevan as they waited, as he is right at her right side, "Magistrate, it is very good to see you and your companion, Lady Analise, today. I always look forward to the scribes meeting, for we all gather and see each other then. Getting informed on what is going on in our city and our caste. Such as this important census that we truly need more Selnarians to take it seriously, especially the warriors, and the merchants who call Selnar home" leans forward to greet Analise as she couldn't at the meeting earlier, "Tal Lady Analise"
[17:12:01] Drevan of Cos (drevan.darkbyrd) caught the stranger staring at Analise and said to him " Can I help you sir? "
[17:13:24] Soha (pikka.boo) had only seized the final bits of the debate. The last one had been too packed and a cause of discomfort. Her gaze shifted between the two speakers, judging their words and of what she could hear. Her periphery revealed Theron who seemed very focused upon the discussions and would offer a subtle nod of silent greeting. She glanced back towards Priest, a close-lipped smile of acknowledgement towards him before looking back towards both Abraham and Legion, anticipating the judgment.
[17:14:42] Nicholas Crisp What one could glean from observation. Already, the man had a name, an occupation of the woman's companion, and another woman whose seemingly perfect diction and regal manner caused the 'cha-ching' to echo in his mind. His gaze flickered in Drevan's direction, and he spoke one word, "Doubtful." then returned to awaiting the proclamation of the forum's winner.
[17:18:14] Analise Bade (chaoticenvy) smiled behind her veils towards Sylvi, "Tal Lady Sylvi, it is always good to see you as well Lady. I think it is great being able to see everyone." Hearing Drevan she looked between him and the man next to her but said nothing keeping her attention on Sylvi for the moment clearing her throat.
[17:18:24] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: "Ok I'm back. I thank you all for your undue patience"
[17:18:43] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: I'll cut through the chase..
[17:18:53] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: Legion defined the Home Stone quite well as it symbolizes a man's identity, loyalt and belonging to a city or community. It is a deeply ingrained cultural and emotional anchor. Thus he argued that abandoning one's Home Stone is culurally and spiritually unthinkable in that a true man of Gor would never willinging sever this tie. This is all true.
[17:19:12] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: Abraham, on the other hand argued that a man can indeed swear to another Home Stone. He spoke of the importance of family and how the Home Stone is not a common rock we swear to. However, I find that is just supporting the Affirmative of the importance of the Home Stone and Wasnt too clear on the reasoning why a person could swear to more than one Home Stone.
[17:21:55] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: His example of the warrior and the Administrator of Thentis was too vague since it did say it was something that actually happened, I would have liked to seen the names of these persons he spoke of."
[17:22:16] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2): Ubar
[17:22:17] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: His argument wasn't clear enough and basically spoke of when a man is exiled. I would have liked to have seen more reasons. Although one doesn't take lightly to abandoning one's Home Stone, he can still go and pledge to another, however, done with full honor. In other words, as long as his commitment is absolute. It has been known of men to trade Home Stones, however rare. As it is quoted from the book of Assassin of Gor, '....when it is done, it is a solemn thing, more binding than blood, for the old loyalty is discarded and a new bond forged.' "That's just one valid example.
[17:23:20] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: "The Negative position is a tough one, However, since I didn't find the Negative strong enough but seemed to support the Affirmative more, I have chosen Legion Dryden as the winner of this discourse."
[17:24:02] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) shouts: "I thank you all for attending this debate. I thank Cornelius for having me as a judge. It has been an honor, Sir"
[17:24:12] Elphie (elphaba.jinxing) knows that in that in the intent we all swear in the honest hope never to have to do so again and then, when something happens we know we will do so.... practicality vs intent......knows which way 'her' truth lies.
[17:24:18] Citrus Cutie strolled up the steps toward the gathering knowing she was a bit late but still wanted to take a quick peek. Stepping in carefully she'd glance from behind the frames of the large warriors loitering by the door to catch a glance at who was participating in the event. One quick look was all it took; her nose scrunched and she'd spin on her heels making her way back out. Chores suddenly seemed far more exciting and a much better use of her time...
[17:24:35] Sylvi Amour dipped her veiled head to Analise, but then turns towards Firefly as she begins to analyze and state who is to be the winner of this debate, sitting in poised expectancy. Looking to both Legion, and Abraham. Nodding to Firefly's observation that Abraham be more specific, in which she agrees, nodding to the example from the Ancient texts. Applauds as Legion is deemed winner of this debate, "Congratulations, Sir." claps, "Well done, both!"
[17:25:17] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) nodded and began to clap for both men, proud that they were part of the Blue Caste of Selnar. "Congratulations to you both on a debate well argued!" she caleld out
[17:25:52] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) raised his hand, allowing the palm to hit upon his shoulder. "A robust and admirable summary, Lady Firefly of Turmus," he stated. "Well done to Magistrate Abraham. A stalwart effort. Congratulations, Magistration Legion. To see our two magistrates face off in our forum is a resounding demonstration and testament to our caste. And thank you all those who have taken their time to attend. An honourable presence indeed."
[17:27:10] Ginger Amaranth would go to clap her hands together as she'd look up to the men before saying "Congratulations on the Winner and valiant effort by the opponent." She'd move to push herself up from the cushion she was sitting on as she'd go wipe the front of her dress.
[17:27:32] Abraham عبر Jacobson (abrahamjacobs2): thank you Legion, a great debate
[17:28:24] αηηι вєℓℓα - Aυяєℓια (belladelacroix): but I'm going to sleep now. .... bye ^^
[17:28:24] Drevan of Cos (drevan.darkbyrd) smiled to Sylvi and said " Aye we enjoy seeing those of our Caste as well" he turned to Analise " Come along my companion. We have work to tend too" he stood and waited for her
[17:28:29] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) listened intently to the way that Firefly summerised the debate, she had left everyone in suspense and he could feel a level of anxiety rising as he waited. A wry smile as she detailed how things within the debate had gone. "Thank you Firefly, I appreciate your insight. Thank you Cor for organising the event. It is great that we have as scribes have a way of showing off some of our skills, just as warriors may do upon the sands. Abraham, that was very close, and again thank you for offering your time to create this spectacle. And finally to all of you that have come to witness and support this event. I appreciate that as well. I will see you all the next one I hope." He would take a slight bow, and then it was time to head out. He allowed his gaze finally to fall to his each of his slaves who had been present.
[17:29:03] Nicholas Crisp applauded the decision, "Just so." he stood, stretched out his long limbs after that brief repose and nodded toward the two women, "Ladies, the man couldn't help me, but perhaps you could tell me where you purchase your perfumes, and, if you're so inclined, do me the honor of seeking me out in the marketplace. I'm looking for discerning customers who know the value of a well-formulated scent." Nic bowed politely, and the glint in his eye might be interpreted as lust. He did lust, not for free women, of which he could enjoy regularly, but for coin. It was that predominant quest that would have him take a more formal stance toward the two women. Nic was stealth-like in his exit. He'd advertised his services, and, thusly, chose to make his way toward the city's streets to decide where he'd set up shop.
[17:29:11] Analise Bade (chaoticenvy) listened as Firefly spoke nodding in agreement before looking to those nearby her, "that was great!" She enjoyed it very much and looked forward to the next. Hearing Drevan she moved to stand, looking to the man that had sat next to her, making noe of him before moving to follow along. "I wish you all well!"
[17:29:21] Analise Bade (chaoticenvy): note*
[17:29:28] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) rose to her feet, smoothing out her skirts and smiled, diping her head to both debators. "Abraham, Legion ... well done"
[17:29:41] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) smiles at Legion "Congratulations to you and thank you for your kind words. I wish you and all well and safe paths"
[17:30:10] Ϯ Ƥｒı ɛ s է Ϯ (what.lastchance) tried to follow up on most of the topics that were going on. Being new around Selnar, the man was still to swear to the Stone. It was coming, plans have been made and would happen on the following them. He had spied around, many of the ones he have met. The scrib, The Map, The Farmer, The other Blue gang members, and his old friend Ezio. But it was time. Ball Less have whispered there was action down by the market, and so he would follow him. He approached Soha and whispered to her "You be safe now." he said, turning around towad the door, he watched Ezio and simple nodded towards him, as his steps would fasten as he was in hurry
[17:32:13] Kublai Naidoo: I stand, waving to the presents as a sign of gratitude, ready to go out the way
[17:32:45] Ginger Amaranth had thoroughly enjoyed the debate and listening to it. She'd find herself turning on her heels and heading towards the door. She needed to get back to the Scribe building for she had a meeting she need to deal with. She'd say "I wish you all well. It was a great turnout and an enjoyable evening thus far." More of the Northern dialect rippling through in her words. Sometimes when she felt a bit more relaxed it was rather noticeable.
[17:32:55] waffles (lucigray) slipped out slowly, her steps careful and determined...though, she spoke to none, she caught sight of others here and again, and like the huntress she was, eyed the man for a moment, then eased away
[17:33:13] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) turned to regard Lady Firefly, calling out to her, "Well done, Lady Firefly. Thank you for coming all this way to help judge one of our debate events"
[17:33:18] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) waves to her friend Kaela "I hope to get together soon for refreshments." Fire prefers wine to tea and is why she didn't mention tea as most ladies refer to gathering together.
[17:33:50] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) nodded in agreement, saying, "I look forward to that, my lady. WE have much to catch up on!"
[17:34:49] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) "I must take my leave. Thank you again Cornelius" then hears Kaela "We certainly do! It has been way too long" smiles and then goes to exit the building
[17:34:53] Soha (pikka.boo)'s hand remained at her sides for the moment as the winner was announced. The peasant's expression remained neutral, as she recalled her prior experience with the Magistrate. It was why she remained stoic in that moment. Others were standing and beginning to take their leave, Soha would move to the pillar but paused feeling Priest's lips close to her ear and wishing her safety. She seized her bottom lip then, confusion in her features again and slowly turned her head to face him, "You as well," She too would be joining the others in the exit, leaving the hall. As she took her leave, she would briefly glance towards Nicholas, recalling the interaction between he and the free women, as well as Drevan's response, finding the tension. She would subtly nod to him and turn, beginning to make her way towards her stall
[17:34:55] Sylvi Amour rising she'd glance over at the man, Nicholas, who'd offered clue of whom he might be, but paid no mind. Her scent is custom made from Ar, and she'd worn it for a decade, she had no plans to change it. She'd say to Kaela, "Lady Kaela, I will return to my compartment tonight, with so many guards I feel much more at ease. I will go there now to have dinner and then look over my preparation for the debate, before returning back here. Gratitude for your kindness and support, Lady Kaela" then she's incline her head at Lady Elphie, "Tal Lady. I am Lady Sylvi, Scribe of Selnar"
[17:35:59] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie) goes to meet up with her escort "Tal Ezio, good to see you" then continues on her way
[17:36:04] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) turned upon hearing Sylvi and would nod to her, saying, "Of course, Lady Sylvi. My home is open to you if you should change your mind. Please be safe And unless she was stopped, she would head back to the Scribe's Hall.
[17:36:14] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) turned his head towards his aHOC. "Tal Kaela, I was unable to attend the caste meeting today in a timely manner. I did not attend because I did not wish to show up, halfway through and interrupt things. It was better, to simply come here and prepare. I did not mean you or indeed my caste mates any slight. Rather I wished to respect the sanctity of the meeting that had begun without me. I hope that you find my explanation reasonable, and that I did not mean you any offense." He knew that it likely raised some eyebrows that he had not attended, but was here instead. Truth is, he had very much wished to attend caste meetings and been unfortunately unable to do so. "The same goes to you Cor, I appreciate what the both of you do for our caste." This event had been a resounding success so far. "I will have to look at the draw to see who it is that I am up against next. And... excuse my colourful language. I am rusty as fuck"
[17:37:35] Sylvi Amour upon leaving she'd pause by Cornelius to bid him well, "Cornelius, it was a fine debate, one which I hope I will do as well, later this evening. I will see you then, Sir" dips her head, and makes to depart.
[17:40:21] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) dipped his head to Sylvi and then turned to Legion. "I feel your argument could have been solidified further to counter Abraham's potential arguments," he advised. "I do think a better argument could have been made, so perhaps we shall see. In the meantime, it is you and Lady Winter. Lady Sylvi and Lady Jessika of Tyros will be contesting in two and a half ahns. I was hoping I could find another contestant. Lady Velantha wanted to join, but was very late and we have no other candidate." He then nodded his head to Legion when he spoke of the meeting. "Aye, your absence was noted. Drevan will be speaking to the Praetor regarding the incident of Lady Winter and Lady Sylvi. I was hoping you could have been there also."
***-----------***----------***----------***----------***
MATCH III ~ Lady Jessika VS Lady Sylvi
"Beauty is a form of power more potent than steel in shaping the cities of men."
Winner of Debate: Lady Sylvi
***-----------***----------***----------***----------***
SELNAR DEBATE - JESSIKA VS. SYLVI 6/11/2025
[18:59:38] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen): Tal, Ladies.
[19:00:42] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) smiles at Cor and nods. "Greetings, good sir!"
[19:01:14] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen): We shall give it a bit more time. There was a previous debate earlier, so people are more than like weary of our voices.
[19:01:47] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) glanced up when Ezio spoke again, her gaze shifting from him to the direction in which Winter had gone. She would find out exactly what it was the woman wanted and perhaps could point her in the right direction. She knew the Captain was usually swamped with all kinds of things that kept his time very limited. A soft sigh expelled and then her gaze returned to the woman whom was telling her story to her guardian. "I couldn't agree more ... the Praetor needs to hear this in detail," she said gently, mis-matched eyes perhaps meeting Soha's momentarily. Kaela wasn't really uncomfortable, but troubled that things hadn't changed since she had gone through the same thing.
Her head turned, seeing people starting to arrive for the next debate. "If you will excuse me ..." she said, glancing momentarily to Ezio as she didn't simply want to be rude and walk away from him, but she needed to go support her caste.
[19:03:00] ᴇᴢɪᴏ ᴀᴇᴛɪᴠs sᴍɪʟᴏᴅᴏɴ (ezio.sabretooth) nodded his head as he smiled at Soha. "If she is ill then she should return to the infirmary. Let her know that our men take assaults very seriously and all she needs to do in the future is come to the warrior hall and leave a message with the clerks if she cannot find a warrior for whatever reason. I am sure many of our men would be eager to make appointments to speak to her." Ezio was certainly not the most sympathetic, but he was sure the woman would be fine or else she would have stuck around. When Soha gave her name Ezio replied quickly.
"Well then Soha, I will pass this information on and see that your voice is heard. This is important, but there seems to be another debate taking place and so we should clear out of here." Ezio then looked over to Kaela as he was just thinking the same thing she was. "I wish both of you ladies a pleasant evening." Ezio then pulled at the leash that was clasped to his slave's collar and he began to move for the steps.
[19:03:54] Chrystos (christian.caliber) stepped towards the entranceway and looked at those gathered there offering a nice headnod to some, a wink to Ezio and looking at Soha. "Good Day to you..." He said dryly as he entered inside and moved to take his usual seat, sighing as his firm buttocks hit the cushion. Leaning forward a bit, he looked around and began thinking about the scenes in the paintings, waiting for the debate to begin.
[19:05:37] Sylvi Amour greets Cornelius and Lady Jessika quietly, "Tal Sir. Tal, Lady Jessika. I'm so honored to meet you at last. I wish you good luck." dips her head congenially
[19:05:54] Soha (pikka.boo): "I shall not keep you then. I would remain for the debate but I have things to attend to. I wish you well," she would nod politely to them and begin her retreat, intending to stop by her shop and stall before retiring for the evening. As Chrystos entered and passed her with a stale greeting, her hand formed a fist and imagined herself holding her dagger and slashing at him.
[19:07:17] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) gazes over at Sylvi and smiles. "It's truly a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance, Lady Sylvi. I wish you the best of fortunes as well, and may the best debater win ... and may we both enjoy ourselves tonight."
[19:08:47] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) found a sea to settle into, ready to listen to the next debate
[19:09:12] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) settled to a nearby pouf and adjusted her skirts. It was important to Winter that she be there to support Sylvi, despite her current physical state.
[19:10:14] Ginger Amaranth had finished reading a few scrolls in the Scribe's building and made her way back towards the room where the debated had been earlier. She knew there was another debate to take place and she hoped that she didn't end up missing it. She settled into a seat and would adjust her skirts as she settled down.
[19:10:45] Sylvi Amour inclines her head, eyes smiling, "Yes, Lady Jessika. I hope that we will inspire those who have made it here to listen." she'd see that Winter had traveled from Lady Kaela's home to come watch her, in support, she's touched, and waved to them.
[19:12:39] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) stepped forward into the Forum’s light from the oculus and ascended the plinth. His voice rose, calm and measured, filling the space without force.
“People of Selnar," he spoke clearly. "Honoured guests and free minds gathered under the flame of discourse. Welcome to the third match of the Selnari Disputation. Tonight, we bear witness to a contest of thought and word between two learned Free Women. Lady Jessika of Tyros and Lady Sylvi of Selnar. Long have Cos and Tyros been allies and moreso now, in this contest, shall the reputation of each island be put to examination.”
He allowed the names to hang in the air, turning briefly to each woman with a nod of respect.
“The proposition before them is this, ‘Beauty is a form of power more potent than steel in shaping the cities of men.’ Lady Jessika shall speak in affirmation while Lady Sylvi shall speak in refutation. The rules are as follows. Each debator will offer an opening argument. They may then respond to one another with a single rebuttal. At the close, each will deliver a final statement. Time is limited. All speech must remain within the bounds of honour, wit and reason. As judge and Master of Ceremonies, I shall observe for clarity, strength of logic and the verity of Gorean ethos.”
The ferrule of his blue cane struck the stone once, resounding an echoing resonance within the forum.
“Let this match begin. Lady Jessika of the Scribes, you hold the floor!”
[19:13:56] Bia (ava.ellils) slipped into the back and pressed herself against the wall, where she'd remain for the duration of the great debates. She was wearing the same silk two days in a row and purposefully. She wanted to blend in with the walls.
[19:14:23] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) nods, first at Sir Cornelius, then again at Lady Sylvi. Approaching the podium, she caught her breath, and began to speak her opening argument
[19:15:10] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts): When one thinks of beauty, one immediately thinks of the loveliness of the multitude of female slaves who surround us, often barely noticed by the free as we go about our tasks. Yet there are many other types of beauty surrounding us on Gor. A bird singing in the trees is a source of beauty, as is the sight of a tabuk grazing in a field. A gentle wind in the trees, rippling as the morning sunrise flows through their branches, is a beauty that brings joy to many a heart. Beauty can also be found in other ways. A warrior can find beauty in a battle well fought. A scribe can find beauty in a document well written. A well determined philosophy can itself be a thing of beauty. Within our culture, there is a deep beauty in the natural order of things being followed, with man dominant and in charge as he should be, and woman in her place, either in veils at a man's side or kneeling naked at his feet. Goreans struggle every day to maintain those things, for beauty in all its forms is what compels us to keep our cities alive. Steel may be used to conquer armies and defend our cities, but it is only a tool used for maintaining beauty in our homes. The desire to keep beauty in our lives and protect it shapes our cities far more than steel ever could.
[19:15:18] Mateo the Bone Crusher (mateo.ariantho) had heard there was going to be a volatile exchange between two free women in contest and he had made his way into the city hoping to see a good bout. Imagine his surprise following the crowd to see it was the Forum and it was a verbal debate. He would blink and attempt to turn to leave before others coming into the room blocked his exit. He would grumble and sit down,looking about to see if anyone was at least taking bets before Cor announced the start of it. He would rest his elbow on his knee and then his head against his fist,waiting to see how this would go.
[19:15:49] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) saying her words calmly and clearly, she backs away from the podium, and takes her place again beside it.
[19:16:45] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) nodded his head to Jessika and then turned to Sylvi expectantly.
[19:17:28] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) caught Mateo out of the corner of her eye as the debate began. She recognized him, of course-- Cornelius' friend, the night of her altercation with Legion. She offered him a polite dip of chin, then turned forward as Sylvi began to speak, giving her an encouraging nod of her head.
[19:18:19] Sylvi Amour dips her head respectfully after listening to Lady Jessika's eloquent introduction. She'd wait for Cornelius to call her forward for her turn.
[19:19:15] Sylvi Amour at his nod she'd step forward. She had chosen a gown embellished with steel for this occasion. Her headdress that of well constructed Gorean steel meant to remind those gathered here today, of the power and potency of steel, as well as its protection, thereby being what shapes the cities of men. She hopes to make each mind before her, around her, convinced there isn't anything more powerful or potent in shaping their cities, than steel. Speaking clearly so that her voice would resonate with those whose attentions are at ready to hear her disputation, "Tal Selnarians and guests of our fine city! I am Lady Sylvi of the Scribes of Selnar. I am delighted to be here to prove to you, that there is nothing more potent or powerful than steel in shaping the cities of men." goes on, "Without steel, what are we? We could not survive without the power of steel that shapes our cities and our society. The simple existence of beauty that we Goreans so appreciate, and create, would not be possible without the power of steel." (cont.)
[19:19:23] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) hmm'd thoughtfully at the topic of tonight's debate, a nod of her head given to Lady Sylvi when she waved and then she would lift a concerned gaze to Lady Winter whom she also say had returned to watch and listen.
[19:19:24] Ginger Amaranth took in the words that were eloquently spoken by the one woman as she would turn her attention to the Lady Sylvi and wait to hear what she had to say. The debates had been wonderful tonight and great change of scenery from what she was used to.
[19:19:59] Sylvi Amour gazes around the forum for three Ihns, full confidence as she glides her gloved hands upon the podium, arms appearing to be outstretched, reaching for the audience to lend them her ears. Her oration strong, not shrill, but with melodic lilt, she continues, "We praise our Ubar, our warriors. Without them our city would crumble, would it not? Who protects us all with potency, with power? Is it not by the steel they wield? Beauty has no power in shaping a city. Steel is what shapes our cities. Indeed, it does. Not beauty." shakes her head briefly, "But steel." nods and nods. (cont.)
[19:20:37] Sylvi Amour turning to her opponent, she dips her head, again, respectfully, "Lady Jessika's arguments are full of beautiful words, or beautiful things. Indeed, we Goreans have the innate love of art and of beauty. The Ubar wears the beautiful laurel circling his finely braided temples. He is perfection in beauteous sartorial splendor. Cornelius, too, rapping his cerulean staff, finely dressed each day, a beautiful sight in the scribes hall, meant to represent not only decorum, but his attention to every beautiful detail. This speaks volumes about their character, and their care in, and appreciation of beauty." She'd nod and nod, "Legion Dryden in his wing-ed accessory, wears such embellishment to emphasize not only his legendary presence, but indeed, beauty. Each and everyone of us free women, appreciate and display beauty, although we do not concede to it." nods, goes on, "But, none of us can be so privileged to own beauty, to be in the presence of beauty, to be alive to appreciate beauty or even to create beauty, if not for the power of steel that protects us unequivocally, thus shaping our society, our cities of men - A society built on strength, on steel." dips her steel encircled head, gloved hands retrieve from the podium, and lowers to clasp before her. She'd step back, having given her argument, that steel is what shapes the cities of men.
[19:21:58] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): lemme see
[19:23:25] Sylvi Amour steps back, to let Lady Jessika counter. Standing in support of her fellow scribe.
[19:23:36] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) took out his scroll and ink, the nib dipped in the velvet hued night of ink as he took his notes. He noted Sylvi's speech and then turned to Jessika, narrowing his eyebrows into a thoughtful frown.
[19:23:38] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): just so everyone knows, no need to shout ... this building was designed for us all to be in chat range))
[19:24:17] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): thank you!))
[19:24:28] Sylvi Amour: (( ok. ty. Cornelius told me to shout. ))
[19:24:44] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): no worries, he didn't know))
[19:24:46] Ginger Amaranth gave some thought to the words of both as she formulated her own thoughts regarding the debate in question and formulated her own questions she wanted to see if they would be answered by the Ladies or left as a thought until she had to express her own opinions or debate with another.
[19:27:56] Bia (ava.ellils) knew full well there was a delicate balance between beauty and steel. In some cases, the wielding of a sword itself was an art form, a thing of beauty. She regarded each woman and considered the contract of their appearance. While she inspected Sylvi from top to bottom, she smiled, for she'd embodied the very thing she'd considered. While Sylvi wanted to convey strength, she'd managed to produce a thing of beauty. Bia thoughtfully considered Jessika's points. She, herself, longed for lovely things, not cruelty. She tilted her head and waited for the next round.
[19:28:01] Mateo the Bone Crusher (mateo.ariantho) would catch Winter's nod and nod in turn to the woman, taking a moment to remember her from however many nights ago on the Library's steps as he listened to Sylvi and Jessika debate. He pondered the arguments a moment,leaning back some as he stroked his beard lightly,leaning a bit lazily against the column near his seat cushion looking to the others in the room a moment before noting Cor scribbling away. He would look to the two women again. He felt completely out of his element, but even without them engaging in a knife fight, it was entertaining a bit.
[19:31:34] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) stands deep in thought, then clears her throat and approaches the podium once again.
[19:32:35] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) nods at Lady Sylvi, then at Sir Cor. Looking out at the audience, she smiles gently behind her veil, and speaks out with clarity and purpose.
[19:32:47] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts): My opponent says that beauty has no power in shaping a city, but her words are as void of life as steel itself. Although steel, when wielded by a warrior, seems to flow with grace and dignity, it is nothing compared to the life within the warrior himself. And what does a warrior wield his steel for? For other steel? Of course not. A city could be stockpiled with steel, with swords sharpened to their finest point, and it would mean nothing if the men of the city had no reason to use their weapons. A weapon is pointless without the hand holding it, and the hand has to have a reason to hold it … and beauty is the reason for all things. Goreans love not only themselves, but they also love their children, and their women. They love their brothers, their sisters, their parents and their other relatives. They love their animals. They may even love their slaves, if a kajira be so fortunate. And for them and the other forms of beauty around them do men fight … and give their own lives. What is beauty but an aspect of the love in our lives, the lives we experience every day as citizens of our beautiful world? Talk of steel is fine, but I said it before … it is but a tool in protecting the beauty of our lives, and that beauty decides how the steel will be used, not the other way around.
[19:33:16] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) letting out her breath, she closes her eyes gently for a moment, then backs away from the podium again to hear what her opponent will say.
[19:34:16] InnanaChi Ultsch (innanachi) remained ever silent, her people, had debates, but hardly for entertainment - watching the city folk always taught you something. A keen eye could pick up details of those in attendance while listening to the layered women debate the intricate balance of beauty and steel in their world.
[19:34:43] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) clicked his tongue, making more notes. He then looked onto Sylvi, awaiting her final concluding remarks.
[19:35:10] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla): "C'mon, Sylvi. Bring it home." she whispered under her breath.
[19:37:56] Sylvi Amour smiles at Winter, her friends support means everything. She'd nod, and returns to center stage, she'd dip her head towards Jessika, "Those are truly valid points you've brought up, Lady Jessika." nods and nods. Then addressing those listening, she'd say, firmly, "Have any of you taken heed the Priest Kings law for our society? Has anyone witnessed the Priest Kings' wrath against beauty?" looks around a moment. Goes on, "Has any artisan who creates a sculpture, a painting, or a display slave dressed in fineries, covered head to toe in gold and gems, ever been the victim of the blue flame, for it? I have never heard of such. The Priest Kings care not about how beauty shapes the cities of men. But I have extensively read of the wrath of the Priest Kings, when steel is used in ways that displeases them. Too intricate, too much, too advanced. Blue flame would appear to dissipate it or its creator, at once. Why would the Priest Kings have this law for us, if not for the power of steel? Why, if not because of its potency and power in shaping our society? We are not meant to have too much power, which the Priest Kings find displeasing. Ultimate power is for the Priest Kings alone. Therefore, it is clear, steel is potent and powerful, significant in the shaping of our cities of men. Beauty is not by any means significant in shaping our cities of men. It is steel wielded by our warriors, by our Ubar. Steel which allows us to, as Lady Jessika brought up, live the lives we love, with our loved ones, able to attend festivities, attend art galleries, attend to beauty. Without steel, none of this is possible."
[19:38:02] Ginger Amaranth would tilt her head ever so slightly as the rebuttal of the argument was expressed so eloquently, causing her to lean more towards Jessika's view of things, but there was still more. Could Sylvi's rebuttal potentially change her mind or would it make her have more questions than answers. She couldn't help but wonder what the others thought of the debate thus far. Debating such things always warmed her, for even when she'd been a slave it was one of her greatest pass times, when the Free would listen, which honestly wasn't that often. This made her frown beneath her veil as she'd pull herself back to the discussion and she'd watch and listen to Sylvi.
[19:38:22] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) smiled, nodding as Jessika finished up and her gaze would linger on Sylvi, listening until she was done, a nod given and then a glance to Cornelius
[19:38:59] Bia (ava.ellils) had finished standing in front of the physician caste fresco and set her sights on that of the warriors. After all, this was the topic at hand, wasn't it? Once again, she studied the speaker, and she devoured her words, but her brows drew together. Bia searched the room and found those familiar faces or forms or staffs that made her feel at home, even though she was decidedly out of place in this great room.
[19:42:41] Kara (psychee.soulstar) would have had a choice, and she would surely have said no to the proposal... But she has no choice, and it seemed to please Lyra, so she follows her obediently with a smile and kneels discreetly beside her in the amphitheater where the debate is taking place. She is not very comfortable, but there are not too many people.
[19:42:52] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) hmmed aloud, pressing his lips together as he continued to write his notes. And now, it was the ultimate final conclusion of both parties.
[19:44:17] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) mused that usually when people were shouting his name it was not because they though him beautiful. This was certainly an interesting match up, he was enthralled and loving the arguments. This was a great one! He wondered if he was to face the winner of this match or one of the others. He hoped, it was one of the others as these two seemed really capable. Annoyingly so.
[19:46:37] Ginger Amaranth would give a nod of her head as she listened to Sylvi, waiting for the conclusion of the debate. Her gaze would look over towards Cornelius as she'd try to read him, but it was only briefly and it returned to the woman at the podium for what would no doubt be an exciting conclusion. She thought this debate was a lot better than the one before. Perhaps due to the topic choice.
[19:46:58] Sylvi Amour stands still, calmly awaiting Jessika's closing argument.
[19:46:58] Mateo the Bone Crusher (mateo.ariantho) listened to each rebuttal and again,would ponder their arguments. He canted his head,looking curiously between the two, mouth hanging agape and making a gesture with his hand as if he was about to make his own opinion but remembered hearing from those who were at the last one that people who disturbed the last one were reprimanded. He did not wish to learn how and those close to him would just hear a grunt as he folded his arms,again leaning more against the column near his seat. He would watch Cor do further scribbling before waiting to see what the closing arguments were.
[19:49:45] Bia (ava.ellils) heard the grunt, and her eyes were immediately drawn to her favorite farmer. She was still fascinated by him, mostly because he'd yet to prove her theory about his strength and stamina. If he looked her way, he'd see her staring at him. If he looked in her direction, she'd look up and admire another fresco.
[19:51:05] Lyra Sophitia Aurelia (lily.kanashimi) listened. She had her own opinions, but she was sure this wasn't the time for them. She help Kara's leash tightly and pet the girl idly.
[19:52:50] Sylvi Amour worries for Lady Jessika a little, as she watches the lady deliberate, as the Ehns pass.
[19:53:31] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) catches her breath and approaches the podium for the last time
[19:53:47] Kara (psychee.soulstar) looks a little surprised to feel Lyra holding the leash so short and tight, enough to pull slightly on her collar. She looks at Lyra with a curious, gentle expression, but smiles right away and lets herself be rocked by her mistress's caress.
[19:54:34] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) nods at Lady Sylvi and at Sir Cor, and, taking in a deep breath, speaks her conclusioni
[19:54:41] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts): Let's all consider the words being argued tonight. “Beauty is a form of power more potent than steel in shaping the cities of men.” What is “a form of power?” Is steel powerful by itself? No, it just lies dormant, ready to become a tool. Who uses steel? A warrior, standing tall and, yes, beautiful as he defends his city and the citizens who live there. A man can indeed be beautiful as his muscles hold him fast, his mind taking him out against the foes of the land where he lives. Life is beautiful. Warriors are life incarnate. They are the power, not the steel they hold in their hands. Another word in the sentence is “shaping”. Steel kills, but it doesn't shape. Instead, steel is shaped by beings of beauty. Steel protects beauty … but steel doesn't shape it … and what is more beautiful than a thriving city full of people living their lives under the protective gaze of the Priest Kings? And, as she said, the Priest Kings destroy steel … they destroy weapons … because weapons are not meant
to last. The Priest Kings know that beauty is what is important. Beauty is what makes the lives of Goreans the wonder that the Priest Kings want all of Gor to be. Steel is temporary. It is made to be destroyed and reforged. Beauty, however, is what is made to be protected, by both humans and the Priest Kings, and by acknowledging beauty do we do their will rightfully.
closes her eyes and, looking around, grins with confidence as she makes her way back, awaiting Sylvi's final words
[19:56:52] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) nods thoughtfully, agreeing with much taht the Lady Jessika had to say, a particular warrior popping into her mind as she waited to Lady Slyvi's final words
[19:57:03] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) hmmed aloud, as he seemed entirely focused on the two women on the plinth and his scroll. His viridescent gaze strayed from Jessika's articulation to Sylvi, which would result in the culmination of this match.
[19:58:06] Sylvi Amour returns again to the podium. She addresses those around the forum, and where her superiors sat, dipping her head to Cornelius, and then to her right, to Lady Kaela. She speaks for them, for her caste and for her city. She begins posing final few significant questions to support her argument, since Lady Jessika brought up the fact that warriors are life incarnate, that they are the power. So she says, "Lady Jessika states that warriors are life incarnate. Indeed. That they are the power. I agree." goes on, "Is it not known that in the circle of his own steel, every man is an Ubar? Is it not known that steel avenges? Is it not known that one's mind, and steel are of the same accord? And, is it not said that no man is alone, who is a friend of steel? We give our troth to the Home Stone using steel to cut our flesh, and bleed upon the Home Stone, becoming one with our brothers and sisters. And steel is what protects us, wielded by our protectors, given honor, given significance as part of their whole selves. Their whole being. Steel shapes them, and shapes who we are, and IS what shapes our cities of men." dips her head, and adds, leaning forward a little, "Gratitude for lending me your ears. I hope my words have driven to your hearts that steel, and not beauty, which is fleeting, is what shapes our society."
[19:59:11] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) applauds for both women and their efforts as they both conclude their veiws
[20:00:00] Ginger Amaranth couldn't help but nod some. Both arguments had their points, but she clearly had a winner in her mind, given the topic and how it was being discussed. She'd wait for the conclusion of the debate and for the Cornelius's ruling on the matter at hand. She was interested to see his own process for judging the two. It would certainly give her a look into his thought process. As Slyvi stepped up and finished her speaking, she'd lift her hands and applaud the two women as it took courage to do what they just did. She'd say "Congratulations and wonderful points from the both of you."
[20:01:20] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) nodded. "Well done, scribes!" She called out, slipping her hand from an unseen place long enough to slap it against her shoulder in applause. "Compelling arguments!" Then, lowering her hand, Winter groaned slightly. The pain had started to build, again.
[20:02:12] Bia (ava.ellils) finished staring at the elaborate painting of the scarlet clad men and shivered at the thought of those she'd met within Selnar's walls. Slave girls weren't allowed to speak their thoughts in a forum such as this, so she pressed her lips firmly together and slipped out the door to go find her owner. The sound of applause and affirmation made her smile, though there were more questions than answers proposed by both. A tricky subject, indeed. What had seemed so easy was made more complex.
[20:02:51] Ethereal Moonchild: Rhenara brought her gloved hands together and applauded to her fellow Scribes.
[20:03:10] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) deliberated on his scroll and was frowning very hard. His eyes were narrowed and he hmmed aloud. Then he pushed himself up, rubbing his forehead. "I will now deliberate on this. Grant me a few more ehns of your time and the disclosure of teh victor will be offered in return." He then made his way towards the plinth, standing behind the lectern, resting one hand there. He offered Jessika and Sylvi a respectful nod.
[20:03:34] Mateo the Bone Crusher (mateo.ariantho) listened to the closing arguments and looked between the two orators before joining the others in applause in the gorean fashion, as he finalized his own thoughts on the debate. He would again look to Cor for signs of scribbling and the final judgment on who would take home the win. He had not caught Bia staring at him, and if he had he would have given her a curious look.
[20:04:32] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) was glad that he did not have to judge this particular match. "From where I am sitting, that was a very close match ladies." He said simply, probably not what he was supposed to do in such forums. He lent back now, and tried not to look too beautiful beside Cor. At least he had not brought his wings today.
[20:05:25] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) nods at Cornelius, letting out another breath, and looks at Sylvi. The gaze in her expression was one of admiration for the other woman, and she stood there silently, awaiting the conclusion of the judge.
[20:06:43] Sylvi Amour dipped her head as Cornelius stepped up and stood before the lectern. At Legion's words she'd dip her head to him, "Gratitude, Sir." then smiles at Jessika, as she looks her way, inclining her head gracefully as she waits for Cornelius. She looks over to WInter, and sees that her friend seems hunched in pain, and would make a motion of her hand like, go go, go home.
[20:08:21] Ginger Amaranth found herself looking to Cornelius as she'd await the results of the debate. Who would win it? Both women had solid arguments, rebuttals, and conclusions. She though had her own thoughts on the matter. She would wait another time to discuss them, should she be able to. Her gaze locked on Cornelius.
[20:09:48] Alanna absolutely hated crowds...despised them, and as the man walks them straight to the forum, the redhead would visibly flinch, her half naked frame going to kneel at his left and her lips pinching together in silence. The discomfort was palpable, but she was simply a slave doing what she was told to do, those emerald hues casting down towards the pillow nearby and her ears more or less turning the talking into a background murmur.
[20:10:44] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) gave an almost imperceptible shake of her head, staying right where she was: Close to Inna, eyes fixed on the stage, waiting anxiously for Cornelius' decision.
[20:13:19] Silas Karn (pure.saccharin) || Silas made his way into the forum with Alanna in tow it took little time to decide where he would post up when he spotted winter poised in a set near the top of the stairs. Not directly behind he but off t the side. She'd have to look at him when she got up to leave which was exactly what he wanted.
She looked sick by his estimate.
He'd make a motion with his head beckoning Alanna closer to him, a calloused hand resting at her lower back when she drew near enough.
[20:15:59] InnanaChi Ultsch (innanachi) remained still to the point of blending in, all too aware someone had come in and now stood directly behind her, her lips pressed flat but she said nothing, as the debate was coming to a close.
[20:16:31] Sylvi Amour saw Winter's shake of the head and rolled her head at eyes a bit. She then looked over at Inna, who appears to be a plains woman, by the nose ring, and the braid. She'd squint a little wondering if this is Winter's guardian family member whom Winter had mentioned. She'd feel relief for Winter, it is good to have family near when one had been so close to death. She'd wave her gloved hand gently over in their direction. Then she'd see Silas Karn, directly behind Inna and Winter. Her own eyes would widen, looking back at Winter, wondering if she knew Silas is right behind her.
[20:17:00] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) was unaware of Silas. Blissfully so. She exchanged a grateful glance with Inna, but kept her focus on what was just before her. Slight movement could be seen behind her veils as she rooted, silently, for her friend.
[20:17:38] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) shifted upon the plinth, the cerulean ferrule of his cane striking the stone beneath with a single clear note that echoed through the forum’s high space, calling quiet to the assembled minds. His gaze passed from face to face. The disputants, the witnesses… before he spoke, his voice calm, full, and measured, needing no force to command attention.
“Denizens of Selnar,” he spoke in that clipped, measured manner of his. “Guests of Cos. You have witnessed tonight a contest most rare. A weaving of thought and principle, drawn from the looms of two learned Scribes, each bearing the honour of her caste and city with poise and skill. Their words have reminded us that neither beauty nor steel stands alone in the shaping of the cities of men. One is the spirit, the other the sinew; one the dream, the other the means by which dreams are held fast in the world.”
He turned his head slightly, his regard resting briefly on Lady Jessika. “Lady Jessika of Tyros has given voice to the subtle and enduring
[20:17:38] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen): power of beauty. The unseen force that stirs the hand to build, the heart to defend, the soul to dream of more than mere survival. Her vision was wide, filled with the fragrance of life’s finer things, woven with the grace of a Scribe well-versed in the gentler powers of civilisation.”
Then to Lady Sylvi. “And yet, Lady Sylvi of Selnar spoke with the weight of iron and the edge of necessity, even her very robes argued on her behalf. Hers was a reminder that without steel, no city rises, no walls endure, no peace lasts long enough for beauty to bloom. She bound her argument to the very customs of our Oaths, to the stern vigilance of the Priest-Kings and to the steel that draws blood upon the Home Stone itself. A steel that shapes not only cities, but the very bonds of citizenship and caste.”
He let the quiet stretch, respectful, before the judgement was at last given. It was evident the scribe had been deep in thought for a lengthy period, his fingers were curled around both the staff on one hand and the lectern on the other, the whites of his knuckles would be evident to those who were observant, such as the warriors and the scribes.
“By the measures set before this assembly, clarity of thought, strength of reason and the truth of Gorean ethos, the weight of persuasion falls to the Negative. Lady Sylvi of Selnar has prevailed in this match.”
(c)
[20:17:39] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen) | His head inclined in honour toward them both. “Yet let none depart thinking either argument was found wanting. Both women have spoken with honour, with sharpness of mind and dignity of bearing. In their words, the Flame of Disputation has burned brightly. An example to Selnar and to all who seek wisdom by the strife of thought. I must also add… this was by far one of the most rigorous debates this Disputation has seen so far. If not for a sliver of a delay on Lady Jessika’s part, mayhap the yellow flag of Tyros would have prevailed. So once again, congratulations are in order to both Lady Jessika for a stalwart performance and Lady Sylvi for her enduring victory.”
Once more, his cane touched the stone, sealing the judgement.
“So witnessed. So recorded. So judged. This concludes not only the match, but Round 1 of the Selnari Disputation.”
(e)
[20:18:49] K A E L A (yenniferrivia) smiled, nodding upon hearing Cornelius' judgment and stood to her feet, applauding both women and their effort. "Fantastic! Wonderful debate to you both! Congratulations, Lady Sylvi!"
[20:19:14] Alanna was prompted to stand again by that beckoning hand, a wave of prickling rushing over her skin with the touch at her lower back, and her gaze would follow his towards Winter, a small smile pulling at the corner of her mouth. The redhead still thought fondly of the woman, especially after the conversation she'd had with the warrior earlier, and would assess her carefully with the eyes of an ex-physician. It truly never left someone.
[20:20:00] Theron (sagunn): entering the room in silence with the voices that carried from the room announcing the presence of people. Perhaps some that lingered from the Selnar forum for debate, others that ventured to after for one reason or another. Perhaps from the sound of the Scribe speaking he had left when more debates were yet to take place. Listening in depth to Cornelius' judgment.
[20:20:03] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): if you will excuse me, wonderful debate!))
[20:21:01] Ethereal Moonchild: Rhenara rose from her seat and applauded, "Wonderful arguments. Congrats, Lady Sylvi," she waited for a few before she made her way back towards the Scribe Hall.
[20:21:34] Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion) thought that both women had made great points. And that Cornelius job had been a hard one. He nodded. "Well done! And congratulations Sylvi." He hoped he was not up against her in the next round. "Great work everyone. And thanks again Cor my friend." He would stand and head outside to get some fresh air.
[20:21:48] Mateo the Bone Crusher (mateo.ariantho) would listen as Cor stood at the podium of the Forum and announced the Winner. He would look to Lady Sylvi when she was announced and give the woman a nod and join any others who applauded her for the victory. He would turn to the Tyrosi Scribe, thinking to himself it was hard fought and moved to stand,dusting himself off lightly before giving Cor a nod should the man see him and take his exit behind Legion
[20:22:10] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts) gazes at Sylvi and nods. "Congratulations, sister of the blue caste. You were indeed a worthy opponent, and it was an honor exchanging words with you tonight. I truly wish you the best in all things in the future."
[20:22:27] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) "Yes! Congratulations, Lady Sylvi!" She cried out, even as the building din started to hurt her head. Another look to Inna, and she shifted her weight to push to standing, fixing and smoothing her robes. Only when she turned to speak to Inna, did she notice. "Silas...." She whispered, though the breathy noise was likely lost amongst the cheers and celebration of Sylvi's victory. Winter took one step back, then another, nearly tripping over her own robes, a sudden bout of dizziness threatening to take her down completely. Undignified and ignobly, Winter stumbled, but managed to catch herself, before settling her gaze firmly on Inna. "Let's go..." she said urgently, grabbing the woman's arm and high-tailing it out of there, unless she was stopped.
[20:22:32] Ginger Amaranth heard the winner and she'd call out "Congratulations Lady Sylvi. Lady Jessika, I thoroughly enjoyed your own debate." Leaving it at that. She'd move to push herself up to stand as she had business to attend to. She'd turn to start to make her way back to the Scribe building. She still had business to attend to.
[20:22:47] Kara (psychee.soulstar) watches the room empty at the end of the debate... well, Kara doesn't really know the rules of this rhetorical game, so she just looks at Lyra, wisely, waiting patiently.
[20:23:14] InnanaChi Ultsch (innanachi) rose with a grace and ease she usually disguised but as all were busy with the conclusion of the debate she was free for the ihn to not disguise such things. Moving she closed the bit of distance to Winter, her frame subsequently blocking the womans view though unaware such was necessary, her hand catching the woman was instant and she inclined her head again, still silent
[20:23:33] Sylvi Amour moved to Lady Jessika, and Cornelius, bowing her steel head a bit, "Gratitude, Sir. Gratitude, Lady Jessika. I look forward to more discourse with you, I hope we see each other again, soon. I wish you well, Lady Jessika. Gratitude for your coming all this way, and your participation."
[20:23:45] Lyra Sophitia Aurelia (lily.kanashimi) rose and tugged on Kara's leash. "Come along mine. Thais was rather rousing. I think I'd like to particpate in a debate one of these days.'
[20:24:00] Sylvi Amour turns and waves and thanks everyone who were congratulating her, "Gratitude!"
[20:24:23] Jessika Roberts (jessikaroberts): Thank you for judging this tonight, Sir Cornelius. I wish you and everybody of your city the best in all things. I wish you well, and that you have a good night.
[20:24:26] Lyra Sophitia Aurelia (lily.kanashimi) waved to Sylvi. "Very well done both of you." said she
[20:24:50] Silas Karn (pure.saccharin) || Silas would give Winter a lazy chin salute acknowledging that she had said his name, "Lady Winter."
[20:25:23] Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla) allowed herself to be pulled out of the area by Inna without much else said. Just the sigh tof him, had been enough to knock her, literally, off-balance.
[20:26:55] Sylvi Amour seeing Silas and Winter exchanging words, she'd move to Cornelius, but then sees Inna escorting Winter out to safety. She hopes. Sighs, turning to Cornelius, "Gratitude, Sir, for all you did for this Selnarian Disputation. You have planned them so well, it wasn't hard to prepare. I wish you well, Sir"
[20:27:01] Alanna looks at the way Winter reacts to Silas, then looks at Silas curiously, the redhead really having no idea about the man given she'd just met him, and would flick her gaze between the two before Winter disappeared. The question was on her lips, the look in her gaze, but she didn't verbalize it.
[20:31:17] Sylvi Amour turns back to add, "I am disappointed that the warriors weren't able to come. And they would not be reading the minutes, either, when I mentioned their importance so much"
[20:31:38] Ginger Amaranth would watch everyone exit and she'd find herself looking over towards Sylvi and she'd say "Congratulations again. You both had great points." She'd look to Cornelius as she'd say "I will wait for you down at the Scribe's building so we can finish our discussion from earlier."
[20:31:55] Sylvi Amour: Gratitude, Lady Telima! I wish you well!
***-----------***----------***----------***----------***
MATCH IV ~ Lady Velantha VS Lady Telima
“It is fear, not honour, that truly governs the hearts of men.”
Winner of Debate: Lady Velantha
***-----------***----------***----------***----------***
SELNAR DEBATE - VELANTHA VS. TELIMA
[2025/06/17 15:56:42] Sylvi Amour: Tal Lady Velantha. I wish you good luck in the debate. I look forward to the match very much.
[2025/06/17 15:57:33] Velantha Lethara: /me ||The Archivist nodded her head politely, "Tal Lady Sylvi. Thank you for that."
[2025/06/17 16:12:04] Sylvi Amour: /me smiles and passes her water, "My throat got really dry when I did the debate"
[2025/06/17 16:19:02] Sylvi Amour: Tal Lady Telima. Good luck in the debate.
[2025/06/17 16:19:16] Ginger Amaranth: /me made her way towards the forum. She'd step down the stairs before she'd say "Greetings Ladies." Offering a dip of her head to them both. She'd say "Thank you, Lady."
[2025/06/17 16:25:42] Velisara Venetari (morrigan.evergarden): /me entered the forum in hopes of seeing a good debate. A polite nod to those already there. "Tal and good evening. A good night for a debate, is it not?"
[2025/06/17 16:27:02] Sylvi Amour: /me recognising Lady Velisara's voice she'd look over to her and waves, "Tal, Lady Velisara. Indeed. I have been looking forward to his all day" she'd greet Syan, "Tal, Lady"
[2025/06/17 16:28:18] Sylvi Amour: Tal, Lady Firefly. Welcome back to Selnar. I am looking forward to this debate all day, and it is finally time!
[2025/06/17 16:28:26] Tᴜᴜʟɪ ʜɪᴍᴜʀᴀ ʙᴏᴀ (queenlamarama): /me followed Syan inside "Greetings all"
[2025/06/17 16:28:34] Ginger Amaranth: /me looks between those gathering as she'd say "Greetings, Ladies and Sir. It is good to see all that are here."
[2025/06/17 16:29:40] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me finally makes it to the forum along with her cousins. Fears she has been running a bit late but looks around wondering which ones are the debaters as Fire never met them in person before but only knows their names. "Greetings Free. I am here to judge the debate which should be commencing any ehn now"
[2025/06/17 16:29:41] Sylvi Amour: /me turns at the greeting, she'd incline her head in acknowledgement, "Tal, free" she'd greet Tuuli back.
[2025/06/17 16:30:05] Velantha Lethara: /me ||The Archivist looked up from her notes on the debate noticing that so many had entered. She'd shake the cobwebs out of her head and offer greetings all around.
[2025/06/17 16:31:05] Ginger Amaranth: /me replies "Lady Telima, present and ready."
[2025/06/17 16:32:30] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen): Tal, Citizens and Guests.
[2025/06/17 16:32:33] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me Intorduces herself to find out who be Telima and Velentha "I am Lady Firefly Doobie the judge for this discourse." then sees Cornelius approaching "Tal Cornelius" looks over at the people waiting for a clue as to the debators are of the names she just mentioned.
[2025/06/17 16:33:22] Ginger Amaranth: /me replies "I am Lady Telima one of the debators, Lady."
[2025/06/17 16:34:12] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me smiles as she now meets one of the debators "Well met Telima" then looks for the other one, surely she will surface soon
[2025/06/17 16:34:48] Paradox Nova: /me was curious to see what the free would be debating about so she slipped into the forum early and plastered her back against some fresco on the wall so she could listen.
[2025/06/17 16:35:46] Velantha Lethara: /me ||The Archivist would smile under her mask as Cor approached ever happy to see him, "Tal, Cornelius," she'd offer before turning to Firefly. "I am Lady Velatha Lethara of Selnar. I will be the other debater this evening."
[2025/06/17 16:36:50] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen): /me dipped his head to Firefly. "Magistrate Firefly, a pleasure as always. I look forward to seeing this debate. Selnar's two scribes, record-keepers and archivist." He then looked around, seeing more people gather. "Well, let's start then. I leave it in your capable hands, Magistrate."
[2025/06/17 16:37:24] Velisara Venetari (morrigan.evergarden): /me looked up from her scroll and quill, already prepared to take her own notes for review. A polite nod given to the newly arrived as she awaited the debate to begin.
[2025/06/17 16:37:37] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me "It is nice to meet you as well Lady Velatha." smiles and waves to Kaela then says "IOkay then we shall get started." smiles at her old friend's greeting "Thank you Sir."
[2025/06/17 16:38:00] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me “Tal to all who have journeyed to our council fire this evening. As appointed judge, I welcome warriors and scribes, merchants and craftsmen, free and slave alike to this philosophical contest of minds.”
[2025/06/17 16:38:31] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me “Tonight we examine a proposition that strikes at the very foundation of Gorean society, ‘It is fear, not honor, that truly governs the hearts of men.’”
[2025/06/17 16:39:12] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me “This debate touches upon the essence of what drives us as men of Gor. Do we stand tall upon our honor, as the Codes would have us believe? Do we act with courage and integrity because these virtues are worthy in themselves? Or do we merely wear honor as a cloak to disguise our deeper motivations…the fear of shame, the fear of ostracism, perhaps even the fear of the sword?”
[2025/06/17 16:39:14] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me settled onto one of the cushions, not wanting to disturb as things started off so she'd simply dip her head to all taht were here and then settled her gaze on Firefly
[2025/06/17 16:39:32] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me “The Home Stones of a hundred cities have been raised by men who claimed honor as their guiding light. The Warrior Caste lives by its codes, the Merchant by his word, the Peasant by his toil. Yet beneath these noble proclamations, what truly stirs in the secret chambers of a man's heart? Is it the lofty ideal of honor that moves him to action, or the primal grip of fear?”
[2025/06/17 16:39:52] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me “Our debaters tonight will explore this tension between our highest aspirations and our most fundamental instincts. They will draw upon the wisdom of the scrolls, the lessons of history, and their own experiences upon the dust of our world.”
[2025/06/17 16:40:21] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me “I remind all participants that while passions may run high, this is a contest of reason and rhetoric. Let your arguments be as sharp as steel, but delivered with the precision of a scribe's stylus. The victor shall be determined not by volume or vehemence, but by the strength of reasoning and the power of truth.”
[2025/06/17 16:41:07] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me nodded in agreement with Firefly's words
[2025/06/17 16:41:09] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me “Let the debate commence, and may the knowledge of Priest-Kings be honored in our pursuit of understanding. I bring before you two prestigious scribes of Selnar, Velantha Lethara for the Affirmative and Telima for the negative. "
[2025/06/17 16:41:27] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me "Velantha Lethara , the floor is yours to affirm the statement 'It is fear, not honor, that truly governs the hearts of men’”
[2025/06/17 16:41:42] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me Goes to take a seat with tablet and stylus in hand for taking notes.
[2025/06/17 16:41:46] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me politely applauded for both women before things got started
[2025/06/17 16:42:14] Ginger Amaranth: /me would listen to Lady Velantha as she'd put to her mind how she would rebuttal the woman's words as the debate would officially kick off.
[2025/06/17 16:50:39] Velantha Lethara: /me ||The Archivist looked around the room as she gathered up her notes and began
Good evening free, esteemed colleagues and honored guests
While the concept of honor may inspire noble ideals, it is ultimately fear; primal, immediate, and deeply embedded in the human psyche that governs decisions, actions, and the core of human behavior.
From historical accounts of previous empires to modern regimes across Gor, rulers have consistently relied more on fear than on appeals to honor to maintain control.
Septimus of Ar wrote, "It is better to be feared than loved if you cannot be both," recognizing that fear is more reliable than honor or loyalty.
Totalitarian regimes do not flourish because of public reverence or honor. They persist because dissent is punished, often brutally.
Fear of economic collapse, war, social ostracism, or punishment often guides public behavior more strongly than abstract principles. Furthermore I assert that it is the fear of being perceived as a coward that has men drape themselve
[2025/06/17 16:50:40] Velantha Lethara: /me in abstracts such as honor.
What we often call “honor” is frequently fear in disguise:
Fear of shame.
Fear of exclusion.
Fear of appearing weak or cowardly.
This so-called code of honor punishes those who refuse to fight not to reward bravery, but to instill fear of dishonor as a mechanism of social control
[2025/06/17 16:52:15] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me listened quickly, her brows furrowing as she pondered all that Velantha had to say, a thoughtful nod of her head.
[2025/06/17 16:53:36] Velisara Venetari (morrigan.evergarden): /me listened quietly and thoughtfully as Velantha spoke. A few notes of her own taken with key factors that intrigued Velisara as she continued to listen.
[2025/06/17 16:59:53] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me Sees that Velantha is done with her discourse "Telima "Please take the floor"
[2025/06/17 17:00:58] Ginger Amaranth: /me would move to step forward to the center as she'd look out to the crowd and start her speech "Greetings my fellow colleagues, Citizens, and guest,
It is honor not fear that governs the heart of men, unlike what my opponent is trying to say. In a time of war, we select an Ubar to make decisions, with honor regarding our City and its welfare. If we as the people, believe that the Ubar isn't making the best decisions..." She'd interject "...or is making decisions based upon fear alone, then we would seek to over throw him and elect a new Ubar in his stead." She'd start on her next point "Even in our daily duties we seek to behave with honor in our actions, the Warrior who escorts his citizens to not so safe areas of town. The slave who spills ahns upon ahns making sure the City is beautiful" Stopping for a brief moment before she'd add "Even outlaws and thieves have honor amongst themselves, though most of us wouldn't consider it that." She'd look out amongst the crowd now, eyes scanning to each member of the audience before her tone would fill the cylinder once more "Now that isn't to say that some live without such, but in general the hearts of men, strive to live with honor and not fear. I ask you now, who walks beside a man that is governed by fear? Who fights with a man governed by fear? For to be ruled by fear means that the heart of men is ruled by trepidation, panic, and terror. If that were the case and how our society was ruled, well then there would be no war, for they would all be to fearful to claim that which they desire." Accentuating the word fearful in her last statement, as she tried to make a joke at the end.
[2025/06/17 17:03:31] Ginger Amaranth: /me would move to step back after her speech.
[2025/06/17 17:05:28] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me With Telima now done with her argument, "Lady Velantha, the floor is yours now."
[2025/06/17 17:05:44] Velisara Venetari (morrigan.evergarden): /me looked down to her book as she listened, continuing to make her own notes on each side provided so far. Both sides with very interesting views so far.
[2025/06/17 17:07:10] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen): /me took out his scroll and book, beginning to write his notes down, his eyebrows narrowing in contemplation and deliberation while he listened to the two women speak.
[2025/06/17 17:13:11] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus: /me -| The High Initiate made his way into the forum building at a leisurely pace, his beady eyes scanning the occupants within with great interest.
[2025/06/17 17:13:56] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me glanced to Lady Telima, wondering if nerves were getting the best of her before noticing the arrival of the High Initiate, a deep bow of her head given to him out of respect
[2025/06/17 17:15:41] Velantha Lethara: /me ||The Archivist listened thoughtfully as Telima delivered her opening statement
While it is true that Ubars have been overthrown it is an erroneous position to take that this might be done because they make decisions based upon fear. If honor is what clothes the Ubar in our allegiance then fear is the skin to which it clings.
A warrior escorting someone is simply a man performing the duties of his caste and requires no more reliance upon honor than a scribe filling an ink pot before penning a shopping list. I would further assert that my esteemed colleagues thesis which rests upon performance of caste duties, slaves being obedient and outlaws and thieves being exemplary of honor is at best lacking a basis in it's own reality.
Surely slaves and criminals are not the standard by which honor is judged?
Opponents may argue that heroes, martyrs, or revolutionaries act out of honor. But even here, fear plays a role.
Fear of living dishonorably, of betraying one’s core identity, of being forgotten or
[2025/06/17 17:15:42] Velantha Lethara: /me complicit.
Even self-sacrifice can be traced to existential fear a refusal to die meaningless or cowardly.
Fear is the architect behind the mask of virtue.
Honor may decorate human behavior with ideals, but it is fear aw, unrelenting, and deeply rooted that governs the choices men make when no one is watching. Where honor falters in the face of death, disgrace, or loss, fear remains the true sovereign of the human heart.
[2025/06/17 17:19:17] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me hmm'd thoughtfully, making her own quiet assertions about whom she thought was making the best argument, despite her own beliefs.
[2025/06/17 17:20:26] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me has been listening intently to both sides of the argument and now seeing Velantha is done..Lady Telima, please step up to the floor"
[2025/06/17 17:21:37] Ginger Amaranth: /me found herself saying "My opponent says that Septimus of Ar wrote "It is better to be feared than loved if you can't be both." While that may be true, the 97th Aphorism in the Codes, though written in a bit of a riddle as follows:
What is invisible but more beautiful than diamonds? That which is silent but deafens thunder. That which depresses no scale but is weightier than gold." It was then she would pause for a long ehn before she'd say that last word with totality "Honor."
She would let her last statement sink in before she spoke once more "When we swear to the Home stone, we swear to honor our brother's and sisters. Furthermore our male youth play games such as Capture the slave girl, which prepares them to be men. Other such games allow them to develop into the men that will shape our society in the future." She'd reply "I do agree with my opponent that totalitarian regimes don't flourish because of honor, but I would counter that with how many of those regimes are still around today or have fallen to the city of dust, further proving that cities with Honor stand much longer?"
The last point she wanted to make rebuttal of Lady Velantha's words was "Tell me Lady Velantha' is it fear that has you up here today or Honor for your Caste with which you entered this debate and the City with which you reside in?" That was the last of the words she would speak as she felt they were powerful enough to prove her point. She would move to step back to the side once more.
[2025/06/17 17:22:09] Sylvi Amour: /me saw the initiate arrive and stand behind Lady Velantha. She'd hmm to herself. It is as if he's standing there nodding, YES. Fear is what governs men! Fear ME! She'd shake her head, and turns away to listen to Lady Velantha as she speaks. She'd shake her head, again, for she is sure that honor is what drives her own self, at least... thinking herself so honorable and exemplary. Lifts her chin up and sat up, ram rod straight. Looks over to Lady Telima as it Lady Firefly calls for her to take her turn. Nods and nods, listening.
[2025/06/17 17:23:03] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus: /me -| Varkas sighted Kaela's acknowledgment, returning her gesture with the dip of his own head. His gaze focused on Velantha as she was speaking, tilting his head thoughtfully as she spoke of Fear. His hairless brows furrow briefly as Ginger was openly speaking about the Warrior Codes in the public.
[2025/06/17 17:24:08] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me couldn't help but chuckle at Lady Telima's point about which had brought her opponent to the form today, brows lofting as she glanced to Valantha for her rebuttal, though her gaze lingered on His Eminence as he dipped his head in return to her gesture.
[2025/06/17 17:27:03] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me "Lady Velantha, you may proceed"
[2025/06/17 17:35:09] Velantha Lethara: /me ||The Archivist flipped through her notes listening to Lady Telima she had noted the arrival of Varkas as well and would bow her head to him deference as he entered the forum.
She seemed to recoil at the mention of the codes of warriors in the public forum and did her best to walk around the topic while addressing it,:
Prose while beautiful is just that, prose whether it is dedicated to honor or to the inviting smell of a library that beckons you enter and be taken to far away places without moving your feet.
While I acknowledge that my esteemed colleague has asked me my motivation for being on the dais that is not the topic at hand and we should stay the course.
Every argument can be made for honor being the motivator of men but men do not fall on their own swords because of honor, they do it out of fear. Men do not wage war against their enemies for honor, they fear that which could compete with or overcome them.
What, then, of the so-called noble exceptions? The martyr? The man who speaks truth
though it costs him his life?
Even there fear reigns. Not fear of punishment, but fear of becoming something lesser by silence. Fear of rotting inside one's own skin.
My esteemed colleague would have you believe that I am denying the existence of honor but my position is that honor is not absent in such men. But it rides behind fear, not ahead of it.
Fear governs.
Honor obeys.
[2025/06/17 17:37:22] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me hmm'd thoughtfully, her gaze lingering on both debators
[2025/06/17 17:38:08] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me "Lady Telima, please take the floor for your final discourse"
[2025/06/17 17:44:28] Ginger Amaranth: /me would move to step forward as she say "Honor resides in all of us. From the slave who does their owners bidding, to the cobbler that repairs a warriors shoes, to the seamstress that sews the Ubara a gown. My stance on this matter is that Honor resides within us from every single action we take in." She'd go to add "My opponent says that men don't fall on their own swords because of honor, but because of fear. I don't know a single warrior that goes into battle with fear, but instead with honor to the subject matter that they are fighting for. Be it for the Ubar that has declared war, or to reclaim a slave that was stolen. They don't go because of fear, but because of Honor. My opponent would further have you believe that men don't wage war against their enemies for honor, I would say what other reason is their to wage war besides Honor? It is the foundation of our society, it is in everything that we do. I say Honor governs the hearts of men and fear does not." She'd move to step back as she'd finally take a deep breath, looking to her opponent and giving her a nod.
[2025/06/17 17:45:26] Velantha Lethara: /me ||The Archivist would give her esteemed colleague a respectful nod in return
[2025/06/17 17:46:07] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me lifts gloved hands to lightly applaud them both for their efforts
[2025/06/17 17:48:25] Cᴏʀɴᴇʟɪᴜs Aʟᴏʏsɪᴜs Tᴀʀʀᴀɴᴛ (trenzos.dyrssen): /me raised his hand, clapping it against his left shoulder as he then turned to Firefly expectantly.
[2025/06/17 17:50:18] Velisara Venetari (morrigan.evergarden): /me softly placed hand to shoulder in applause as both women stated their sides. It was a very interesting debate and one that would have her writing her own thoughts on the topic. Quietly she waited to see what the Debate Hostess would say.
[2025/06/17 17:50:35] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me "Now that the debators have made their points in their rebuttals, in a few ehn, I will be announcing the winner after I weigh their arguments. Thank you Ladies Velantha and Telina. I applaud you both on your fine discourse." then continues writing in her tablet
[2025/06/17 17:53:17] Ginger Amaranth: /me would find herself waiting in anticipation as the winner would be announced shortly. She'd find herself saying "Well said Lady Velantha. It was a pleasure to debate with you."
[2025/06/17 17:56:11] Velantha Lethara: /me || The Archivist offered another respectful nod to Lady Telima, "Indeed. Well done."
[2025/06/17 18:02:01] Varkas Maledictus Sanctus: /me -| The High Initiate stamped his staff upon the stone of the public forum, his manner of applauding the two astute intellectuals.
[2025/06/17 18:03:12] Ginger Amaranth: /me would look towards the High Initiate and she'd give a dip of her head, respectfully towards the man. She'd noticed the man during the debate, but was really focused on the debate
[2025/06/17 18:05:04] Velantha Lethara: /me || The Archivist heard the familiar sound of The High Initiates staff stamping and she'd turn and bow her head to him, "Eminence."
[2025/06/17 18:11:37] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me Thank you all for your patience.
[2025/06/17 18:11:42] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me The statement "It is fear, not honor, that truly governs the hearts of men" would generally contradict the core philosophical principles of our society. Our culture heavily emphasizes concepts of personal honor, warrior codes, and natural order. Speaking of warrior codes, Lady Telima had mentioned one of them which is tabu as They are for the warriors only to know. Although Lady Telima presented a strong case on honor, this weakened her argument.
[2025/06/17 18:12:15] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me nodded in agreement with that
[2025/06/17 18:12:41] Firefly Doobie (firefly.doobie): /me On the other hand, Lady Velantha presented a more profound and logically coherent argument, using philosophical reasoning that aligned with her social position. Her points stayed within the established traditional knowledge framework while directly addressing the central issue of the proposition. For this reason, I have chosen Lady Velantha as the winner of this debate. Congratulations to you, Lady Velantha.
[2025/06/17 18:13:15] K A E L A (yenniferrivia): /me nodded and began to applaud once more. "Well done, ladies!"
[2025/06/17 18:13:40] Sylvi Amour: /me smiles nodding, "Congratulations, Lady Velantha. Well done both of you! Great debate!"
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ROUND 2 (SEMI-FINALS) - SELNARI DISPUTATION
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🔹 The Selnari Disputation – Round 2 Semi-Finals Assignments
Must be completed by 25th June 2025
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IMPORTANT
PLEASE READ:
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THE SELNARI DISPUTATION - DEBATE EVENT INFO
The Selnari Disputation
City of Selnar
The Selnari Disputation is an in-character, single-elimination debate hosted by the Scribes of Selnar and those aligned with intellectual or rhetorical pursuits. Designed to be sharp, structured, and dramatic, we invite scribes to test their wit and training in formal, one-on-one contests of argument.
This is not a contest of who can write the longest scroll, but who can speak with clarity, logic, presence, and cunning. It is about voice, conviction, and the high art of discourse.
Format Overview:
• 1v1 knockout tournament | winner advances, loser is eliminated
• Each round features a focused debate topic (legal, political, philosophical or any other relevant topic)
• Strict format: 5 posts per participant, ~200 words per post & 15 minute posting time
• Posts must be made in turn (back-and-forth) within a set time-frame
• Judges will select the victor based on clarity, argument, and presence
• Public debates held in the Selnar Forum to encourage RP and spectatorship
• Max 8 participants (3 rounds total)
• Estimated event duration: 2 to 3 weeks
Important Rule:
All posts must be written by the participant. Use of AI text generators (ChatGPT or similar tools) is not permitted. This is a test of your own character’s voice, insight, and strength of thought.
Who Can Get Involved:
• Scribes or intellectuals wishing to debate (Note: You do not have to be a scribe. You can still join.)
• IC judges with experience or interest
• Spectators, scribes' aides, or rivals to stir the crowd
• Storytellers or Admins interested in weaving the event into ongoing RP
To express interest as either a Debator or Judge:
Send an IM or note to Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen)
SCRIBE DEBATE REGISTRATION FORM
The Selnari Disputation – Registration Form
Please fill out this form and send it to Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen) via IM to register for the upcoming scribe debate tournament.
Character Name:
Avatar Name:
Home City / Sim:
Caste / Role:
Expression of Interest in Role (select one): Debator | Judge |
Availability (Time Zone or preferred posting hours):
Brief RP experience or relevant background (optional):
Do you understand and agree to the rules? Yes/No
5 posts per round, max 200 words each
No AI-generated writing allowed
Commitment to active participation both IC and OOC
Thank you for your interest! Looking forward to your participation. Please send this completed form back via IM.
Selnar City on Cos, Recruiting a, Selnar City (64, 70, 501)
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SCRIBE DEBATE - SELNARI DISPUTATION FAQ
WHAT IS THE SELNARI DISPUTATION?
The Selnari Disputation is an in-character scribe debate tournament running throughout June 2025. Scribes face off in knockout rounds with one-on-one debates judged by a third party. It’s about sharp minds, elegant arguments, and RP that builds Gorean cultural life.
HOW DOES THE TOURNAMENT WORK?
It’s a knockout ladder. Win your match, and you move on to the next round. Lose, and you're out. Three rounds total: quarter-finals, semi-finals, and a final.
WHAT'S THE TIMELINE?
- The first round (quarter-finals) must be completed between June 1–14.
- Semi-finals occur between June 15–24.
- The final round will be scheduled before the end of June.
(These dates may change if more debators are registered, but it is the rough guideline.)
HOW DO MATCHES GET SCHEDULED?
Each debate team consists of two debators and one judge. It’s up to the three of you to coordinate a time that works. Debates should take place in the public Selnar Forum.
WHAT'S THE FORMAT OF EACH DEBATE?
Each debate follows a six-post format:
1. Affirmative Argument (Debator 1)
2. Negative Argument (Debator 2)
3. Affirmative Rebuttal (Debator 1)
4. Negative Rebuttal (Debator 2)
5. Affirmative Closing (Debator 1)
6. Negative Closing (Debator 2)
Each debator has 15 minutes per post. A full debate takes roughly 90 minutes.
ARE THERE POST RULES?
Yes. Posts are capped at 250 words. Typically 150–200 words per post, in the interest of time. We want concise, high-quality exchanges, not essays.
WHAT ARE THE DEBATES ABOUT?
Topics are legal, philosophical, or political in nature. Each match will have its own assigned prompt, which is kept short and clear. Debators must argue from the perspective of Gorean logic and social context, not modern ideas.
CAN I USE AI TO HELP?
No. The spirit of the Disputation is authentic character writing and debate. You may prepare notes, but AI-generated content is not allowed. Judges and admins may disqualify debators if AI use is suspected
WHO CAN JOIN?
Any literate Gorean roleplayer is welcome to register, whether a citizen of Selnar or not. They do not have to be scribes.
WHAT IF SOMEONE MISSES THEIR MATCH?
If a debator is unresponsive, the match may be forfeited. We encourage clear communication and suggest proposing 2–3 possible times to your opponent and judge. Judges may declare a forfeit or request a reschedule.
I WANT TO OBSERVE OR JUDGE, CAN I?
Yes! Observers are welcome, and we still seek a few volunteer judges. Contact Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen) to join as a judge or observer.
WHO DO I CONTACT FOR HELP?
Speak to Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen) if you need support, a judge reassigned, or have any issues or queries.
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SELNARI DISOUTATION - DEBATORS GUIDELINES
Selnari Disputation – Debator Guidelines
Welcome, esteemed debator, to the Selnari Disputation. Your role is both honoured and demanding, for through your voice flows the spirit of discourse, the pursuit of truth and the mastery of Gorean rhetoric.
This is not merely a contest of words but a demonstration of intellect, honor, and devotion to the sacred customs of our culture.
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Your Duties as a Debator
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Speak with clarity and conviction
Express your arguments clearly and persuasively, using a voice befitting your caste and station. Let your words carry the weight of your honour and the tradition of Gorean decorum.
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Build Sound Arguments
Present well-reasoned points grounded in logic and lore. Avoid evasions. Engage directly with your opponent’s claims, demonstrating keen insight and respectful rebuttal.
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Honour Gorean Lore and Custom
Your statements must reflect a deep understanding of Gorean principles, caste roles and societal codes. Base your arguments on IC knowledge; refrain from bringing OOC information into the disputation.
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Maintain Roleplay Integrity
Stay fully in character throughout. Your prose should be immersive, polished and fitting the solemnity of a formal disputation. Avoid breaking the fourth wall or casual OOC remarks.
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Observe the Timeliness Rule
Each post must be made within 15 minutes of the preceding post to maintain the flow and intensity of debate. Failure to respond in time may result in forfeiture.
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Conduct in the Disputation
Respect your opponent and judges alike; decorum is paramount.
Avoid personal attacks or insults; focus on ideas and principles.
Use the forum designated for the disputation only; do not stray off-topic.
Prepare thoroughly and honour the tradition of the Selnari Disputation with your presence and words.
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Victory and Honour
Remember, winning the disputation is a mark of your skill, knowledge and dedication to the Gorean way. The judges will assess your performance by clarity, logic, lore, style and roleplay quality.
May your words be sharp as the blade and steady as the stone.
If questions or difficulties arise, seek guidance from Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen).
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SELNARI DISPUTATION - JUDGES GUIDELINES
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Selnari Disputation – Judge Guidelines
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As a judge in the Selnari Disputation, you play a vital role in upholding the intellectual rigour and integrity of the debate. The goal is not only to assess who “wins” the argument but to encourage excellence in Gorean rhetoric, logic, and roleplay.
You may judge alone or alongside your co-judge. Only one judge is required to complete the match.
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What to Judge
1. Clarity & Rhetoric
Did the debator express their ideas in a clear, persuasive, and Gorean voice?
Was their tone consistent with Gorean decorum and caste background?
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2. Argumentation & Logic
Did they make coherent, well-supported arguments?
Did they directly respond to their opponent’s claims or evade them?
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3. Use of Lore
Did they demonstrate understanding of Gorean principles, customs, caste codes, and traditions?
Did they ground their points in IC knowledge rather than OOC reasoning?
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4. Presence & Style
Did they command attention and maintain a strong in-character presence?
Was their posting timely (within the 15-minute rule) and their prose well-composed?
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5. Roleplay Quality
Was the roleplay immersive, well-written, and appropriate in tone?
Did it add to the realism of a formal disputation in a Gorean setting?
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How to Deliver a Verdict
After the final post:
You may privately confer with the co-judge (if applicable).
Announce the winner ICly in the Forum.
Provide a brief summary of your reasoning in open chat.
If needed, also note if the debators exceeded limits, broke RP immersion, or failed to respond in time.
Sample Judging Comment (IC style)
“Having weighed the strength of argument and poise of each speaker, it is my judgment that the Affirmative held the stronger position, both in logic and loyalty to the codes of our society. So it is written.”
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You are the standard-bearer of quality. Be firm, fair and unbiased. The purpose is to encourage mastery of Gorean thought and dialogue.
If any issue arises, contact Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen) directly.
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Island of Cos (76, 234, 38)
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This notecard contains the official pairings, debate topics and judge assignments for Round 1 of the Selnari Disputation.
Each match will be a formal in-character debate:
1v1 format
3 posts per participant
~300 words per post
15 minutes per post
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Only one judge needs to be present
(The second is a backup or co-judge; both may attend if able.)
All Round 2 Semi-Finals debates must be completed by June 25th.
Participants are responsible for reaching out to their opponent and judge(s) to coordinate scheduling.
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🔹 MATCH 1
Affirmative: Sylvi Amour
Negative: Legion Dryden (theforeignlegion)
Judges: Firefly Doobie and/or Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen)
Topic:
“The Merchant Caste holds power equal to the High Castes.”
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🔹 MATCH 2
Affirmative: Winter Sage Reins (aaralynneshyla)
Negative: Velantha Lethara (aspen.candyclaws)
Judges: Firefly Doobie and/or Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen)
Topic:
“A well-trained slave can achieve more influence than a Free Woman.”
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For any questions, contact Cornelius Tarrant (trenzos.dyrssen).
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➤ Next Blue Caste Meeting: TBD
⚓ Physician:
Physician’s Caste Seeks Volunteers for New Breakthrough Treatments:
The esteemed members of the Physician’s Caste are pleased to announce the development of two promising new treatments: an improved Rejuvenating Serum designed to accelerate healing and restore vitality, and a groundbreaking therapy aimed at treating memory loss. Both innovations are currently entering the trial phase, and volunteers are being sought to assist in their continued refinement.
All treatments are offered free of charge. Those who wish to take part in shaping the next chapter of medical advancement are encouraged to report to the Infirmary. Your courage today may bring a brighter, healthier tomorrow for all.
Lastly, in a commendable show of unity, members of the Physician’s Caste have begun working closely with the Warriors to provide basic field triage training. This partnership aims to improve response times and increase survival rates during moments of crisis—ensuring that strength and skill are met with swift and skilled care on the field.
➤ Next Green Caste Meeting: TBD
⚓ Builders:
Builder’s Caste Hard at Work Amidst Ongoing Rogue Troubles
The ever-diligent Builder’s Caste has begun repairs on the city tavern and other damaged structures following recent unrest. The destruction, largely attributed to the reckless escapades of rogues still evading capture, has kept the Caste busy reinforcing stability—both in brick and in spirit. Citizens are asked for patience as reconstruction efforts continue, and to report any suspicious activity to help bring these fugitives to justice.
➤ Next Yellow Caste Meeting: TBD
⚓ Warriors:
• Sunday, 21 June 2025 Upcoming Events:
- Raid Slave training @ 11am SLT
- Field Medic training with the Physican Caste aHOCs @ 11am SLT
- Warrior Raid training will begin immediately following the Field Medic training
• Latest additions to the Scarlet Caste:
- Marcus
- Priest Bryan Kobaleinen
• A Calm Before the Storm?
No news is good news—or so say the warriors of the Hall. For now, all remains quiet within the barracks, a rare and welcome lull. Citizens are urged to enjoy the peace while it lasts, though remain ever vigilant. In times of war, the unexpected is always just over the horizon.
➤ Next Scarlet Caste Meeting: TBD
◈━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◈ L O W C A S T E N E W S ◈━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◈
⚓ Merchants:
The Merchants have been abuzz for the past two weeks. Multiple announcements were made at their most recent meeting, including a request for the men to step up and do their duty to the caste by taking in the lone women as wards, their efforts in the war, and perhaps most interestingly - elections for the Merchant Council.
Theron Ayers of the Raven Trading Company, and Lycaonia Aetos of the Blacktide Trading Company, spent the ensuing weeks courting the favor of their Caste-mates. Each was vying for an open seat on the council, so the competition was not between one another, but merely to prove they had the support of their peers.
In the end, support was overwhelmingly in favor of both Theron and Lycaonia stepping up to help lead the Merchants of Selnar. Congratulations to you both! Their leadership and insight are sure to bring great value to the Merchant Council and the City of Selnar as a whole.
The Isle of Tyros Festival of Merchants.
Come Celebrate with us!
Merchants Welcome to come set up a booth. Contact dustpan ( Luvly Dinzeo)
(Isle of Tyros)
JUNE 20-22
Over 30kL in prizes 3 Days of Events
Friday June 20, 2025
Opening, 12 pm SLT
Dunking Booth and other games 2 pm SLT
Game of Favors 4 pm SLT 3 gc
Tarsk Race 6 pm SLT (3kl in prizes)
Saturday June 21, 2025
Tarn Race 11 am SLT (2k in prices)
ROC Tournament 12 pm SLT/ Art Auction featuring Milena Orsino
Sword Tournament 2 pm SLT (20kl in prizes)
Ax Throwing 4 pm SLT 3 gc
Tarn race 6 pm SLT ( 3k in prizes)
Tavern Night Featuring DJ Safire from the Whip 7pm
Sunday June 22, 2025
Slave Run 11 am SLT
Slave Mud wrestling 12 pm SLT 3gc
Dance Exhibition 2 pm SLT
Slave Run 4 pm slt
Slave Broom fight 6 pm SLT (3kl in prizes)
Any question please contact dustpan (luvly dinzeo)
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⚓ Slavers and City Slavers
A new wind blows through the Ubar's kennels, slaves are shivering in fear, the cracking whip is heard, the scent of branding of slave flesh noted, and the slaves are more obedient and willing to work hard than ever. Why? He has arrived:
Bashir Ibn Naryn Ibn Jussuf Ibn Samuel Ibn Mesut Ibn Talahar Ibn Jaffar Ibn Tylar Hasan
The new kennel slaver. And slaves know: never piss off the slaver.
He is from the deepest depths of the Tahari, most of his life working as merchant and slaver. He might have some weird phrases and habits but really, he does not bite ... hard. As Bashir says "Best wares, best work, best slaves! You need something, Bashir can supply!"
So do not be shy or scared and have a look and get to know the man and his exquisite wares.
➤ This weeks Selnar Kennel Slave Feature highlights:
This week's Cosian Kennel Slave Feature Highlights: Flo (Floreo)
Flo arrived in the Ubar's kennels shortly after Selnar was established as the new capital of Cos. She came into our possession with a limited grasp of the Gorean language. Since then she has worked hard to learn the language and what it means to be a Kajira. This has not come without its fair share of trials and tribulations. Yet, she has always managed to come out on top. Flo is a rare unpolished gem, who will surely shine with a blinding light once she has completed her training.
✬◦°˚°◦. 𝓐𝔃𝓭𝓪𝓱𝓪𝓴 𝓢𝓵𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓐𝓬𝓪𝓭𝓮𝓶𝔂.◦°˚°◦✬
Opening in two weeks, Azdahak Slave Academy will be taking enrollment for slaves, providing instruction ranging from basic to advanced level classes. Most classes will be direct and hands on (roleplay event based instruction) with some classes being verbally delivered (partially ooc/seminar types). Slaves must know the Gorean language to attend the classes and ownership documentation and enrollment documents are due at the time of payment. Price per enrollment year (3 RL Months) is fifteen silver. Contact Etienne Azdahak (Mayhem Mysterious) for an enrollment appointment or if you are a free person interested in participating in class instruction.
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AZDAHAK SLAVBE ACADEMY ENROLLMENT (SL AGENT NAME)
✬◦°˚°◦. 𝓐𝔃𝓭𝓪𝓱𝓪𝓴 𝓢𝓵𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓐𝓬𝓪𝓭𝓮𝓶𝔂 𝓔𝓷𝓻𝓸𝓵𝓵𝓶𝓮𝓷𝓽.◦°˚°◦✬
By completing this document and paying the registration fee, ______________________ (SL AGENT NAME), owner of the slave named _______________________ (Agent Name), does hereby agree that the slave will be trained in the below indicated areas.
[ ] Types of Food and Drinks
[ ] Gorean Flora and Fauna
[ ] Serving Food and Drinks
[ ] Cooking and Preparing Food and Drinks
[ ] Serving Women (including dressing and grooming)
[ ] Serving Men (including dressing and grooming)
[ ] Regional Cultural Decorum
[ ] Bathing
[ ] Dancing
[ ] Initiate Decorum
[ ] Battle Assistance (Learning the raid rules and zcs meter controls)
[ ] Basic Slave Positions and Gestures
[ ] Giving Sexual Pleasure (Red Silk Slaves)
[ ] Other: (Please Indicate)
𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓢𝓵𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓞𝔀𝓷𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓲𝓵𝓵:
provide legal ownership documentation and slave exams for registered properties.
be cooperative and amicable in all academy business arrangements.
ensure their slave is given ample time to attend their lessons.
not contradict with the slave any lessons provided but will, instead, meet with the instructor and come to an amicable agreement to make corrections.
notify the instructor of any special requests or accommodations which may need to be made for their slave before instruction begins
not make any legal proceedings or monetary compensation demands should a slave suffer any accidental injury during any instruction, punishment or time at the academy.
give permission for the instructor to punish and encourage a slave in any manner they deem appropriate.
abide by the laws and customs of the City of Selnar while visiting and/or their slave attends the Azdahak Slave Academy.
abide by the rules and policies of the Azdahak Slave Academy while their slave is in attendance.
𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓢𝓵𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓦𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓑𝓮 𝓔𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓣𝓸:
know the Gorean language to be enrolled in the academy.
behave in a manner appropriate of their station.
be a diligent and respectful student.
be on time and attend classes regularly.
listen to the instruction and guidance of any Azdahak Academy Slave during instruction or attendance at the academy.
abide by all rules and expectations of the Azdahak Slave Academy.
𝓐𝔃𝓭𝓪𝓱𝓪𝓴 𝓢𝓵𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓐𝓬𝓪𝓭𝓮𝓶𝔂 𝓟𝓸𝓵𝓲𝓬𝓲𝓮𝓼
The manner in which the slave is trained will be at the sole discretion of Etienne Azdahak (Mayhem Mysterious) with the support of the aforementioned slave owner. Azdahak Slave Academy slaves will also be providing certain instruction and guidance at the behest of Etienne Azdahak. Slaves are not boarded at the Academy but must be sent to their classes by their owners. No member of the staff, nor will any Academy owned slave, be responsible for retrieving a slave for classes or delivering them to their owners from classes. The owner must deliver and retrieve (or send the slave), to attend and leave classes. The slave owner may withdraw the slave from the academy at their discretion, however all fees are nonrefundable.
𝓢𝓵𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓞𝔀𝓷𝓮𝓻 𝓘𝓷𝓯𝓸𝓻𝓶𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷:
Name: (Agent Name)
Caste:
City of Residence:
𝓢𝓵𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓘𝓷𝓯𝓸𝓻𝓶𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷:
Name: (Agent Name)
Gender:
Place of Birth:
Age:
Current Level of Training:
Subjects of Advanced Knowledge:
Subjects Which Need Improvement:
𝓛𝓮𝓰𝓪𝓵 𝓓𝓸𝓬𝓾𝓶𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷:
Current Legal Slave Ownership Papers:
Current Legal Slave Examination Papers: (If not attached to previous)
𝓛𝓮𝓰𝓪𝓵 𝓐𝓰𝓻𝓮𝓮𝓶𝓮𝓷𝓽 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓢𝓲𝓰𝓷𝓪𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓮𝓼:
I, the OWNER of the REGISTERED SLAVE, have read and agree to the policies included within this legal and binding document. Under penalty of the law, I confirm that all slave documentation provided is accurate and that I am the legal owner of the aforementioned slave and release the Azdahak Slave Academy and its owner/operators from any legal obligations to confirm the validity of the documents I have provided.
Slave Owner Signature and Seal:
Date:
I, a STAFF MEMBER of the AZDAHAK SLAVE ACADEMY, have ensured all necessary legal slave documentation and the enrollment fee of 𝓕𝓲𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓮𝓷 𝓢𝓲𝓵𝓿𝓮𝓻 for the aforementioned slave to be enrolled in the Azdahak Slave Academy has been provided and filed appropriately in the academy.
Azdahak Slave Academy Staff Signature and Seal:
Date:
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⚓ From the fashionista of Selnar, Lady Elphie:
WHY DO WE BOTHER WITH HEAD & FACE VEILS & HEADSCARVES (Hajibs) and more...
Lady Elphie of Selnar has delved deep for this and she has confirmed what we know, we are fortunate to have the talent that we do in Gor, Designers who give us options and choices that make us unique and individual in the variety of our apparel. This is purely from the creativity and diversity of clothes that they give to us Free Women. Every single designer has shown that they are not just geniuses but that they really do care about the work that they share with us, taking weeks to create a dress that might spend its time hanging in our wardrobes until we rediscover it and then wear it for a week straight!! Id like to thank the designers who took the time to respond and add their input for this article who i have credited with their links at the end ... (open attachment to continue)
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FACE & HEAD VEILS, HEAD SCARVES/ HIJABS
◈━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◈ T H E K R A K E N C R I E R - 1 - ◈━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━◈
Edition #2
⚓ From the fashionista of Selnar, Lady Elphie:
WHY DO WE BOTHER WITH HEAD & FACE VEILS & HEADSCARVES (Hajibs) and more...
Lady Elphie of Selnar has delved deep for this and she has confirmed what we know, we are fortunate to have the talent that we do in Gor, Designers who give us options and choices that make us unique and individual in the variety of our apparel. This is purely from the creativity and diversity of clothes that they give to us Free Women. Every single designer has shown that they are not just geniuses but that they really do care about the work that they share with us, taking weeks to create a dress that might spend its time hanging in our wardrobes until we rediscover it and then wear it for a week straight!! Id like to thank the designers who took the time to respond and add their input for this article who i have credited with their links at the end..
Lady Elphie of Selnar has reaffirmed it is in most cases "not officially law that we free women wear veils (Face and head) along with head scarves" to obscure our beauteous features and to avoid enticing men to consider us worthy of collars. However, it is documented under Law 25. "Robes of concealment and veils may or may not be required by law for free women. In some cities, it is only custom while in others it is actual law.!" a reason to check the city laws and "even where it is only custom, it is strongly recommended that all free women wear robes and veils in public."
So that is why and lets look at our options in the world for us to adhere to the social standards required of us; to hide our features and stay safe from those who would be drawn to us. For many of us we keep our true appearance for those who know us best, family or even our free companion, not forgetting Law 26 "Face stripping a free woman, forcefully removing her veils, is a serious crime" showing that the Gorean Free Woman feels safer in her veils and increasingly in multiple layers.
We have been in touch with 'some of the more prolific and creative designers' of Gorean free women attire who work to create these for us to keep us protected and socially accepted and we have given you the examples out there, which perhaps you are not aware of...
HEAD VEILS:
Lady Anna of Antaya currently sells four different types of veils each with colour variants and even options to change the colour of the pearls, making it the perfect fit for the free woman of Gor who wants to mix and match from 250L$ per colour option; from her perspective Lady Anna of Antaya suggests " I truly enjoy the fashion of wearing headpieces with veils — if one must hide her face, let it be done with elegance, beauty, and something to remember". This next veil is more historical and specific examples include two from Grasssopper St, who have these two medieval options 100L$ and 400L$ There is a set of bustle dress which comes with a veil in black called and there is also a fantasy material set of the medieval veil, which can be purchased as a set for 350L$ or singularly for 150L$; perfect for a Gor peasant or to wear with a circlet. There is also a wedding veil which has different lengths for 400L$. I am further advised that the Grasshopper Street designer is not planning on adding anymore veils to this range but advises that you can visit the store (link above and sign up for group membership which will also give you a discount.
FACE VEILS:
This is in addition to our requirement as free women for our face veils which there are many options and these too are full of details and with so so many colour combinations! fitting the variety of outfits we all share. 199-299L$. Lady Sadie Dubratt of Kitty Creations, designs her clothes with the face veils incorporated into them, here is just one example this means they utterly match match the colours of the dress. Lady Sabratt has also has shared with me the newest of her Kitty Creations which included the headscarf with their dress and it is designed to match. This was released on the 05/06/2025 so it is entirely new! and the entire 8 colour range is 2999L$ and singular colours for 550L$ but if you are a member of her group you get a great discount which makes the range more than reasonable. . Arwen's designs does indeed follow a comparative model of having a range where they have the Face Veil, Headscarf and Dresses and they can even be bought as a fatpack of all 16 colours but be prepared this is not for those on a budget coming in at 3007L$.Raptures Enchantment does a face veil that matches the hijab called at 350L$ in all the caste colours you could ever need.
In addition to these ConTrato a super designer offering a semi transparent veil suitable for slaves with a hud offering 30 colours!! at an outstanding price of 99L$ now as a FW you should not wear a semi transparent veil however if you wear it with another semi transparent veil as a head veil you might get away with it - just an idea but normally these semi transparents are only good on their own for the slaves who wear them as a mockery of the FW.
HEADSCARF OR HIJABS:
The headscarf presented at Zaaea comes with a colour HUD but it is not the same as a Hijab design it is more like a fabric wrap and the cost is 390L$.and Zaara does have neck scarves which can be draped around the neck but they do not have other such items such as facial veils or head veils.
Antalya has three 'separates' versions where they are independent to the clothes of others 299L$ but these are all with colour HUDS.
Arwen's Creations also have a similar version and once again they have a 5 colour Fatpack 1181L$ but they can be bought independently. 179L$ an there is another version or there is another fatpack which has the fatpack of 16 versions for 2229L$ or you can purchase them singularly at 299L$. and there are yet more and more options to investigate.
Raptures Enchantment has the Sabra Hijab which has a golden edge and two sorts of fabric, flowered and plain and it means there are 26 options for use and for 777L$ and no, i didnt get the amount wrong! in my view this is a 'steal' and you are insane if you dont own it while there check out especially as individually they cost more than 300L$ each!
ConTrato also are offering a comparative headscarf to compliment their Veil also in 30 colours with a Hud and this while perhaps not as 'detailed as some of the others we have mentioned is once again at a bargain price of 99L$
BURKHA OR FULL COVERAGE:
In the south of Gor the Burkha can be worn when moving about outside, and by FW, these can be found being sold in various places, some more 'fashionable' and detailed then others....perhaps this is a future development we will have to watch out for., perhaps until they become more detailed or pretty 250L$ or these from Jordanna Hamaski's Shabby Chic and Chicaholic at the cost of 550L$. and i have found rather excitingly an entire store which is selling pure southerly gorean clothes both on Marketplace and our world,
now for the 'more i promised, although my personal opinion, which i am not alone in having is that this might be the most extreme! Silk Road is found on SL Market Place [https://marketplace.secondlife.com/en-US/stores/223137] and although the world store disappeared once i had started asking questions about it! On seeking the thoughts of our designers who took part in this article, Antaya's designer commented that this which is by the far the most extreme example we have found outside of a Burkah. Lady Anna oF Antaya's she felt was " It's not really my style. I want to create lightness, femininity, perhaps a touch of boldness in my work, but I find the option shown too brutal." Perhaps this is more suited to punishment of a kajira? like a hooding perhaps?
Arwen's Creations also has a fully coverage Mask and headscarf which is completely more in line with the notion of being feminine which Lady Anna of Antaya was describing, which comes as entire collection of wearables contains a very near full coverage although you do have to buy in different colours independently. Further there are the more 'traditional' style based in the history of the bedouin and such beaded masks or those with coins, an example is found at Roped Passions by Passionately 300L$ which is the only one on Market place but i have been told about a merchant in the Port City of Sulport who has a comparative one on display and this is at Jena's Amazing Gems in the cabinet there is a comparative piece and it is orderable but there is no label as to the cost
VEILS FOR SLAVES??
On the suggestion of veils for slaves demonstrated here, it was thought they were too 'transparent for the FW' however the example shows they can enhance, they are frivolous and that they could be enticing, Lady Anna commented " Veils for slaves? Why not! I've already made a version with semi-transparent fabric, so the boldest and most fashionable Free Woman and Free Men can dress their kajirae fashionably when required" my personal thought is which beast doesn't enjoy being fussed over?."
On a personal note, Lady Anna of Antaya wrote that while " I rarely have the opportunity to fully engage in roleplay, so when I create RP clothing and accessories, it helps me feel connected to the world of RP. In a way, it satisfies my desire to be part of an ongoing story." and "thanks to my old friend DarkStalker, who now lives in Selnar, and my muse Florence, who sometimes visits Selnar as well, I was introduced to this amazing city. Selnar and the people who live there have inspired me deeply — the veils, especially, were born from that spark of inspiration. There’s still so much more waiting to be expressed in upcoming items. have many plans and ideas, and I hope to bring them all to life, to delight the residents with new creations and small gifts." so we can expect far more from Antaya and she remains one of our firm favourites! and she even spared the time to write this to us all.... "I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who supports my store and my creativity. Without you, my store would not be what it is today!"
One last word, there is a reason that i put Kitty Creations in this list aside from that lovely Lady who owns it, it is important to note that unlike others she sells her wares at a ridiculously low price JOIN 50L Weekend, and the 35L Saturdays and 60L Secret which you will find on the sales wall for even more reductions. Quite simply after all this there is no excuse for a FW of Selnar not to have the best dresses and being the most 'socially acceptable free woman' in the city!, and the best of all these change weekly! this is why this Kitty Creations is a constant no1 in my Gor World right along side those special pieces from Raptures Enchantment which no free woman should ever be without!
Thankyou designers for your continued passion and please know there is not a single woman in Gor who does not appreciate you for your time, patience, devotion and dedication to making us look the best possible us!
* The owner of Kitty Creations
* the owner of Antaya
* The owner of Arwen's Creations
* The owner of Zaara
* The owner of Grasshopper Street
> Included Raptures Enchantment
> Included ConTrato
> Included Keystone by Aymee Monk [https://marketplace.secondlife.com/en-US/stores/140589]
> Included Roped Passions [https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/111838]
> Included Jenna's Amazing Gems
Next Month: Parasols!!
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◈━━━━━━━━━━◈ L A D Y W H I S P E R V I N E ' S S O C I E T Y N E W S ◈━━━━━━━━━━━◈
❖ The Vine Knows ❖
Dearest Darlings of Decorum and Decadence,
It is with a quill dipped in ink—and perhaps just the faintest trace of scandal—that I formally announce as promised:
The column is now open.
Yes, the whispers have found parchment. Lady Whispervine hears about it all, and writes about it even better.
This very first installment already promises there will lots more drama and scandal than a poorly choreographed slave auction.
Reports have begun to arrive—anonymous, naturally—detailing everything from suspicious strolls beneath moonlight to a warrior caught reciting love poetry to a mirror (you know who you are, darling).
For those of you sitting on a secret so ripe it’s about to burst: a mailbox has been placed right outside the scribe’s Place your notes with care. Fold them twice. No blood, no perfume. Just truth… or at least something deliciously close to it.
Remember:
If you don’t tell me your secrets, someone else will.
And I always check for handwriting matches.
Yours in ink and intrigue,
Lady Whispervine
*:-.,_,.-:*'´ `*.¸.*´`'*:-.,_,.-:*
My dearest readers,
It seems the air between parchment and profit has grown more charged than ever.
Word has it that the Assistant Head of the Scribes and her ever-refined nemesis—the Assistant Head of the Merchants—were seen entering the Merchant Caste building together late one afternoon. Yes, together. Yet not a shred of silk nor a polite nod could mask the frost that clung between them. Locked inside for nearly an hour, these two famed rivals—known for trading barbs sharper than quills—held a “meeting” that has the entire Caste Circle buzzing with speculation.
A sharp voice, unmistakably agitated, reportedly pierced the courtyard midway through. Alas, the echo gave no hint as to which lady dared to raise it.
What could have drawn these adversaries behind closed doors? A failed contract? A disputed ledger? Or perhaps something far more delicate—and far more dangerous? One wonders if ink and coin are no longer the only treasures at stake.
As always, I shall keep my quill poised and my ears open as this story unfolds.
Yours in scandal and sincerity,
Lady Whispervine
*:-.,_,.-:*'´ `*.¸.*´`'*:-.,_,.-:*
Dear Readers,
Rumors drift like smoke through the corridors of justice: one of Selnar’s esteemed Magistrates may be treading a perilous path. Eyewitnesses speak of a quiet but deliberate summons to the Captain of the Scarlet Caste—a request heavy with unspoken meaning. The subject of their inquiry remains shrouded in silence, but many whisper it signals a troubling loss of faith in the Warrior Caste itself.
Such doubts, if spoken too boldly, risk more than mere scandal—they threaten the fragile balance of power. And in Selnar, a Magistrate who falters too openly may find himself unceremoniously removed from the hall, reassigned to obscurity… perhaps no more than a clerk behind a dusty desk, far from the iron grip of justice.
Where ink meets order,
Lady Whispervine
*:-.,_,.-:*'´ `*.¸.*´`'*:-.,_,.-:*
Whispers on the Wind: A Call to Arms from Genesian Port
Dearest readers, even as we sip our wine and enjoy the latest dalliance or scandal, the distant roar of war echoes more insistently than ever. A missive—equal parts plea and proclamation—has crossed my desk, penned by none other than William Carver, Administrator of Genesian Port.
Word is spreading like wildfire that Genesian Port burns beneath the iron talons of the Kur. Whether fate or folly brought their dreaded steel ships to these shores, the truth remains: the city bleeds, and with it, the fragile peace of all Gorean lands.
Carver’s message is not one of quiet despair, but a rallying cry to the sons of Torvaldsland and all who cherish freedom. It is said he asks not for pity but for steel—steel to drive the Kur back into shadow, before their plague spreads beyond the horizon.
Such news, my dear readers, should be savored as carefully as your finest brandy. For in these whispered words lie the promise of war, the clash of swords, and the dance of fate itself.
Let us watch, listen, and remember: when the Vine knows, none may feign ignorance.
Winding ever onward,
Lady Whispervine
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GP CALLS UPON THE NORTH
To the Warriors of Torvaldsland, Sons of the North,
I am William Carver, Administrator of Genesian Port. I do not come to you with polished words or empty diplomacy—I come bearing the weight of my city's ruin and the urgency of a world at stake.
You know the danger I speak of, even if it has not touched your shores in recent memory. Like my own people— you too once stood against the Kur, that ancient and merciless enemy of all free men. Some among you fought them with Tarl of Ko-ro-ba himself. Others have only heard the stories. But I tell you now: the stories were not enough.
One of their ships—a vessel of steel and death—has come down upon Genesian soil. Whether by fate, miscalculation, or the will of Priest-Kings, I do not know. What I do know is this:
Genesian Port is burning.
Our militia lies in ruins. Our warriors—many of them your blood brothers, traders, or kinsmen—have fallen in the streets. We cling to a few remaining strongholds while the beasts regroup in the wreckage, healing, watching, planning their next move.
We are not facing a raid. This is not a border skirmish. This is the foothold of a war that, if left unanswered, will sweep across Gor like a plague. If Genesian Port falls, the Kur will not stop. They will not rest. They will push inland, south and north alike—until the axe howls again in your own villages, until your halls are reduced to embers, your kin taken as cattle.
I come to you not as a petitioner, not as a Scribe or Genesian—but as a Gorean who will not bow. I will not be conquered. I will not be hunted. And I will not let my people be torn apart while good men still draw breath.
If you too will not suffer the world of Kur, then stand with me. Let us strike before they rise again. Let us bring fire to their dens, steel to their throats, and death to their kind.
Fight for Genesian Port, not because it is mine—but because it is the first line in the war for all of Gor.
In hope for all of Gor,
William Carver
Administrator of Genesian Port
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Dearest readers,
While rumors of war and whispers of intrigue fill our streets, there remains another crisis that demands our attention—one far closer to the hearth and far more delicate than steel and strife.
The great city of Selnar, it seems, faces a different kind of threat: a shortage of love. Yes, you read that correctly. With the Ubar and his favored companion busy securing the bloodline, the rest of us appear distracted by everything but the pursuit of companionship.
Fear not! The Kraken Krier has taken up the mantle to save Selnar’s future from languishing in loneliness. They are seeking a Head of Matchmaking Services, a bold soul with enough charm and cunning to unite scribes with warriors, merchants with bakers, and—most importantly—turn shy glances into fiery courtships.
Experience in romance is optional, but a talent for shaming the unwilling into affection is highly encouraged.
So, if you consider yourself a master of hearts, or at least a fearless meddler in matters of love, apply at once. After all, what’s a city without a little passion—besides embarrassingly quiet at dinner parties?
Yours, always,
Lady Whispervine
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Dearest readers,
What was meant to be an elegant evening of refinement and repose hosted by the D’Orval Estates turned into a splash of scandal, the ripples of which are still making their way through polite society. The occasion? A much-anticipated Free Woman’s bath event. The hostess? None other than Lady Shelby of the enigmatic Hand of Fate—a name now whispered with both fascination and alarm.
Though the estate bore the name, it was Lady Shelby who played mistress of ceremonies throughout the night. And what began as a serene soak turned swiftly into something far less proper. Word reaches this quill that a game was unveiled—one that involved “portraits” of our beloved Warriors of Selnar, yet the content revealed in those images may have exposed far more than armor and honor.
Could it be that the Hand of Fate has dealt society a most unbecoming hand? Questions now rise like steam from the bath itself: Was this a misstep… or a calculated scandal? And will Lady Shelby be held to account for this descent into debauchery, or will she, as always, slink through the smoke unscathed?
One thing is certain: not all reputations will emerge from this bath so squeaky clean.
Yours in ink and intrigue,
Lady Whispervine
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COMPANIONSHIP ANNOUNCMENT
An Announcement of Companionship
Lady Winter of the Scribes & Brontus of Selnar, Butcher Extraordinaire
Let the ink flow and the meat hang properly aged—
It is with meticulous documentation and more than a hint of disbelief that Lady Winter, esteemed member of the Scribe Caste, known for her cool intellect, flawless penmanship, and ability to correct your grammar with a single raised brow,
has formally accepted a Companionship Contract with none other than the man who brings both sizzle and surplus to Selnar's markets:
Brontus of Selnar, Butcher Extraordinaire—a merchant of ample cuts, both in business and belt size. Yes, that Brontus.
Known to the common folk as “Two-Chops” for his unholy efficiency with a cleaver and to the nobility as “That loud man from the meat stall who smells of garlic and raw ambition,” Brontus has long been a fixture of the marketplace—and the source of more unsolicited opinions than actual coin.
Whispers say the match was struck over parchment and pork—
somewhere between a scroll on municipal tariffs and a perfectly salted haunch.
Date of Ceremony: To be determined (pending approval from three caste elders, two head cooks, and one extremely reluctant seamstress).
Invitations: To be delivered by hand (steady, ink-free hands, please).
Reception: Meat-heavy. Wine-rich. Veil optional (for the bride only).
Critics call it an alliance of brains and brisket.
Romantics say it’s proof that even a Lady of Letters might swoon over a well-trimmed loin.
Either way, it's happening.
May the scrolls be signed in indelible ink… and the roast never overdone.
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Ask Lady Whispervine:
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Dear Mistress Whispervine,
Every time I kneel, my knees pop like a startled sleen. My Master says it’s “part of the charm,” but I think he’s just being kind. Is there a Gorean-approved remedy for creaky kneeling?
Dearest Snap, Crackle, and bow,
Ah, the sweet music of aging joints in the sultry rhythm of submission. Fret not—your charming creaks merely announce your presence like a modest gong. If you'd prefer a quieter descent, consider warming up with a few stretches before you begin your service. I recommend the kajira swan bend followed by the panther squat of doom. Should the issue persist, a poultice of heated bosk fat and mint (mint optional, bosk fat… less so) may soothe those rebellious knees.
Always remember: the body bows, but the spirit sings. Creak away, sweet flower.
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Dear Lady Whispervine,
I’m a warrior who recently tried to draft a love letter before marching off to war. What came out sounded more like a battle strategy than romance. Is there a way to write tender words without accidentally planning a flank maneuver?
Dearest Steel-Hearted,
Ah, the eternal struggle of the romantically warlike. Remember, not every sentence must include the phrase “line of defense” or “supply route.” Try replacing “flanking” with “embracing,” and “crushing resistance” with “melting her heart.” Metaphors are your friend—just don’t borrow them from the siege manuals. And if all else fails, quote someone dead. It makes you sound deep and too busy to be original.
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Dear Lady Whispervine,
In a world ruled by masters and chains, what does freedom truly mean for a free woman? Is it a gift, a curse, or something far more complicated?
Dear Seeking Truths,
Freedom for a woman in our world is never simple—never a gift handed gently on a silver platter. It is a flame, flickering and fierce, sometimes warm, often wild, and always demanding.
Is it a gift? Certainly, for freedom grants her the power to choose her own path, to speak without chains, and to claim her place beyond the shadow of any master.
Is it a curse? At times, yes—for freedom also means bearing the weight of loneliness, the sting of suspicion, and the sharp eyes of those who fear what she represents.
But, dear reader, it is far more complicated than gift or curse. Freedom is a constant dance—a delicate balance between soaring and grounding, between defiance and grace. It is a daily rebellion wrapped in silk and steel, a journey that few dare to tread and even fewer understand.
So, if you ask me what freedom truly means to a free woman, I say: it means everything and nothing—until she decides for herself. Or a man decides for her.
Yours, in ink and mystery,
Lady Whispervine
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Is war messing up your love life, your fur decor, or your ability to host a decent feast? Lady Whispervine wants to hear from you! Send in your whispers, your worries, and your battlefield blunders.
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⚓ Ads & Fliers:
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Serendipty Shop:
The warm months are upon us here in Selnar but don’t count out your ONLY premier tea and black wine shop!!!
Seasonal tea and tisane flavors are always available and change monthly!
All black wine is carefully flavored in store by hand!
Looking to woo that special Free Woman?? Come in and ask about the “Serendipity Picnic Packs!”
Custom made tea sets, hand made pottery for all your Blackbwine needs as well!
Custom blends are always available (within reason) so stop by today!!!
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✧ Raven Trading Company ✧
▣ Location: Imperial City of Cos
▣ Proprietor: Theron Ayres
▣ Contact: Please leave a message on the board outside the warehouse or inquire with the proprietor directly
▣ Where to Find Us: Merchant District, near the harbor — just past the Gambling House along the wharf and port side Warehouse bearing the company name.
Purveyors of fine Gorean goods, both imported and locally sourced.
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🛖 Advertisement: “By the Will of the Priest-Kings… Let Your Crops Rise Again”
MIKA, OWNER OF ‘POOP & PROSPER’, DAUGHTER OF DUNG AND FIRE, MERCHANT OF EARTH'S BOUNTY proudly presents…
“Mika’s Miracle Mix”
🌾A fertilizer blend so potent, even the fields of Cos and lands beyond burst forth with life that defies both sun and shadow.
Forged in the shadow of the third moon, mixed by hands that don’t fear stink or sorrow, and aged in barrels with more stories than a slaver’s tavern, this ancient heirloom blend combines:
- Charred remains of sacred ash
- Crushed bones of tarsk and fish, lovingly ground between stone and sweat
- Sun-bleached shells of sea scavengers
- The pulped refuse of rice and soy
- Kelp hauled from treacherous shores where even the sleen do not tread
- Dung. Of both man and beast. Rich in shame and nitrogen.
- Secret ingredient X
Bold Claims, Uttered Loudly from Mika Herself:
Your suls will swell.
Your grains will glisten.
Your ka-la-na grapes will grow so fat and juicy, they’ll burst right off the vine and knock tarns out of the sky!
(Very fine print reads: Mika bears no liability for root vegetables that form attachments, develop sentience, or challenge your Free Companion to a duel.)
JINGLE:
🎵 “Got a wilted weed? A sad ol’ seed?
Call on MIKA for all your planty needs!
With ash and fish and shells galore,
She’ll make your garden rise once more!” 🎵
🎵 Bones and pulp and kelpy crunch,
With dung from goat and man and hunch,
It’s stinky, strong, and secretly blessed,
Just don’t ask what’s in the rest!” 🎶
📣 MIKA’S MIRACLE MIX – Now available at Poop & Prosper located down the alley from the butcher’s stall. Sold in sachets, 10 or 40lbs sacks, and barrel sizes!
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🌞 Fresh Savings at Lar-Torvis! 🌞
The city's leading produce stall and shop is serving up Summer’s best at HALF OFF — but only for the first 50 customers!
Don’t miss your chance to stock up on the freshest fruits and vegetables of the season at unbeatable prices.
Lar-Torvis – Where Quality Grows.
📍 Market Square | Open Daily at First Light
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**Have a business you want to promote? Be sure to submit to the editor before our next edition!
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