Yup, I'm trying to finish it up this evening/today. Else I'll be done tomorrow (Saturday). Writing it all out takes a darned long time >.o *should've picked a different format*
Damnit, the year is still not finished. I will post the first half year for now. Unlike am_dragon, I've written out that wacky travel montage, and more. I will also post the most boring year report EVAH (imho and afaik), for it be a big wall of text, this due to most screenshots being 1280 pixels by 400 pixels tall. The same goes for the number of posts. Like one post/_month_ due to characterlimit/post.
With that said, here's the introductory post:Before your eyes lies an old book, bound in what appears to be tough deer leather. Its dark brown colour has faded over the years and scorch marks adorn its spine. On it you see an exceptionally well designed image of a dwarf and a rock. The dwarf wields the rock and looks intimidating. Above it you read the words:
These are the Gathered Writings of a Mad Dwarf
And below it you read: "as compiled by Likot Thatthilistam, grand niece of Vabok 'Deyd' Aludoslan". The image is outlined with cave spider silk thread. You notice it was once locked tightly with three copper locks. None of which are left in place. You open the book, some of the pages are brittle and fall apart upon your touch. You carefully start reading..."Chapter 8 - History of Mamgozfath, 'Dragonsacks', and My Influence. The Year of the First, 1057.
It was the year of 1056, the 6th of Obsidian when I, Vabok 'Deyd' Aludoslan, received word from the local mayor. He had gotten a letter from our Queen requesting him to send one or two of his greatest minds to an outpost in the north called Mamgozfath, or 'Dragonsacks' in the commoners mouth, to replace the retiring outpost leader. It would be a 10 day trip from our settlement.
Having discussed for three days with the man it was settled, I was to go to Mamgozfath, to my dismay. I saw no use for a simple Siege Engineer as myself to be at such a young outpost as Mamgozfath, let alone lead it. Armies march when when a city thrives! Not when it's learning how to walk. He informed me that he would have a donkey with supplies for the journey ready with the week, the 16th of Obsidian. That way I had time to settle in and calmly discuss business with the outpost leader before taking his place.
The donkey was indeed ready the 16th and the provisions supplied would indeed last me for 10 days, perhaps 12 if I restrained myself from overindulging in the biscuits and rum. Since I most likely had to spend the majority of the next 10 days with the donkey, I called it Alath Keskalreg.
The first three days of travel were prosperous, at the end of the third day I crossed paths with a dwarven caravan. We set up camp for the night there and they happily told me all about their travels. Coincidently they were on their way home after trading with Mamgozfath and a few of the dwarven settlements further north and east from there.
They gave me some great information, for one I should take the initiative when talking with the then outpost leader for rumours were that he was slightly chaotic in his activities. Nothing bad, he tended to forget some things and made some weird decisions.
The most interesting bit they told me about were the trading rights issued by the Queen. Apparently the settlement where the current outpost leader came from had the sole right of sending a trading caravan to gather the riches from Mamgozfath. I think my mayor chose me for my known interest in art and crafts. I'll show him.
Lastly they informed me that I would easily get to Mamgozfath in seven more days. I could probably do it in five if I packed up one hour earlier and stopped one hour later each day than I had planned. In return for all this information, and warmer clothing, for apparently it was always cold up there in the mountains, darn you mayor, I traded them two days worth of provisions.
They were great early risers themselves and helped me pack and get on my way the next morning. The early rising and later sleeping, and the fact that it was getting colder with every two steps I took forward, was more taxing than I had suspected. And after five days there was still no sign of Mamgozfath, and neither was there sign of my provisions. Of course without food or rum how is a dwarf to survive? Yes, I tried to kill the donkey there and then, it would've been the easiest thing to do. I tried to catch it a few times throughout the day, but it kept running away. I'm not a ranger cagith out loud, what did you expect? And besides, her brays sounded so sad each time I scared the bejesus out of her.
I, well we, thus resorted to eating whatever edible plant life we came across. Damn those merchants, I should have questioned their motivations when I asked for those giant cave swallow leather boots, instead of the deer leather ones. After four more days I finally arrived at Mamgozfath. I shall thank the gods who kept me safe those last four nights for the rest of my life.
What a great way to start your term as leader, arriving on the back of a donkey after having lived of roots and sticks for the last four days. Thankfully the fortress was well stocked with food and drink, and I was quickly provided with a plate of food and a wooden mug with ale. The food and the ale were amazing, got my spirits back in no time, though I would've prefered rum. Note to self, ask the trader to trade us some sweet pods. Now all that was left to do was meet up with my predecessor and keep the fortress running smoothly.
A talk with the Expedition Leader and my predecessor resulted in some shocking results. Not a single dwarf here knew what anything was worth. Let alone anything the traders would bring with them. The stocks were also left ignored. Nil Nekollikot, the Expedition Leader and a Planter, informed me that the Queen had send him, and six other dwarves, here to reclaim the site. They had been cleaning up for two years by now and everything was still a mess outside. Status
I feared this would mean that food stocks were very low, so I quickly tried to find the kitchen. Which is a difficult thing to do in a maze like this fortress. However, I did find it, and to great shock the idiot cook there just wanted to cook our wine and ale! I called him mad and disallowed any use of alcohol in cooking. Even without proper count everyone could see we had little alcohol left. Only a hundred and fifty or so against over double that amount in meals. Wine and ale
Upon further investigation of the fortress I came upon the leader quarters. Supposedly every dwarf who leads this fortress for a year is allowed to build a nice bedroom for themselves. The rooms look decent, but there's nothing sealing the inside of our fortress from the outside here. Any winged monster will be able to just fly into our fortress and rip whoever is in their room to shreds. And then I haven't even talked about the charcoal west wall! I shall ask the masons to take down these walls and replace them with proper rock walls. And I'll seal these rooms of from that fancy porch, or whatever you may call it. No freaks shall enter my fortress this easily.
I was then led to the frontdoors and the enclosed courtyard. Enclosed with swish cheese! Whoever build this wall hopefully expected to line it with trained Marksdwarves. I however see no Marksdwarves in millitary service. I shall ask the masons to replace that wall with a proper closed wall also. And I've found the perfect location for my residence for the year. Some parts of the fortress look nice though. My two predecessors are both very skilled engravers, and have decorated a lot of walls and floors with various images. Though the only masterpieces I've seen from them so far deal with dead horses and purring maggots. At least purring maggots can be milked.
2nd Granite, 1057
I do have to say. These dwarves know what working is, after they helped me settle in we tackled the task I had planned with many hands. That's me and 'am_dragon' Ogredmeng to the right. Hard work
5th Granite, 1057:
We've been busy taking down the fortifications at our main entrance. But that's not what I wanted to say. A kitten has been following me for a few days now, it seems to really like me, and she's very cute. I called her Reg Mosusmasos, Reg Roomtalks for commoners, for her mews are so loud and distinct. An adorable little creature. More hard workCommunity effort 20th Granite, 1057
Oh no! 'infinity' Udiblecad has walked into an Ambush! Those damned Goblins! They cornered the poor guy. I drafted him into the millitary, in the hopes he would be able to fend them of for a bit till the Axedwarves got to his location. Ambush!
MOTHRAM THEM! MOTHRAM ALL OF THEM GOBLINS! They send poor 'infinity' flying with only a few hits of their hammers. He landed dead, about ten meters further. First death
The weaver, Shorast Razescog, wanted to recover the body and bury our friend immediately. I had to stop him, I didn't want any more casualties on our side. The cheesemaker, who was also on top of the hill managed to flee down the stairs. I locked the door and ordered the axedwarves to stand there. WHERE ARE THEY!?
23rd Granite, 1057
Elven merchants have arrived at our Trade Depot and are unloading their goods. I decided to gather all the useless clothing we had lying around in the hopes those Elves would trade them for something useful. The goblins seem to depart slowly. Damn them, and where the hell is my rum?! Merchants have arrived<
Hahaa! Still good news for today, Reg Mosusmasos has grown to become an adult feline. Now she shall help Cerol Uristshar, Sodel Morsibrek's cat, in keeping our fortress vermin free. Reg Mosusmasos has grown to become a cat 28th Granite, 1057
It's been only 5 days since those goblins took away 'infinity' from us, and now they've claimed their second victim. Axedwarf As Alaklikot ventured out on his own without letting me know. That's it, screw those elves. I hoped they had something, anything, that would be worth the hassle of exposing the fortress to those damned goblins. Instead we lost a second dwarf and traded nothing. I have ordered that all non-soldiers stay inside at all times until further notice. I'll raise the bridge once every dwarf is safely inside.
These... 'military' dwarves seem to lack any brains. Even when ordered to stay together as one squad, and guard the front entrance there is that single idiot who ventures out to steal his fallen comrade's equipment. I'M TALKING ABOUT YOU LED NINGRIGOTH! Our second soldier that has been struck down. Three war dogs stupidly followed him towards their death, one managed to damage one goblin's left upper leg very well. Battle greed. 3rd Slate, 1057
More dogs attacking the goblins, again only one dealing some damage to one goblin's leg, Kib Fokerzulban, a peasant/Axedwarf runs outside with no goal whatsoever. When I try to get a dwarf to pick up that damned narrow wolf leather cloak that's keeping the door of our fortress' chimney open. I.E. All hell breaks loose! Dumat Etasfikod runs up the stairway where he meets up with Nil Nekollikot, the Expedition Leader, both fight the goblin trying to come down and they knock him unconscious, Dumat runs outside and attacks the four goblins standing just outside the Trojan chimney. He manages to cut of the left arm or one of the goblins, now all it has is a shield in its right hand. He also deals some damage to a second goblin's upper leg before being taken out by a healthy unharmed murderous goblin.
Nil has sustained a lot of damage, but the goblin on the stairs above him is in worse shape, he has taken a lot of damage to his upper body, head and brain, lost his left arm and right eye, and has taken a lot of damage to his right hand, liver and heart. He is down and will stop breathing soon. Asen Oshrirastis, now the leader of the military has joined up with Nil and she has finished the goblin.
Nil bled to death. Asen has walked outside and is fighting bravely. Poor girl. Tosid Ibruknomal has taken station at the bottom of the chimney and is doing her best to get to Asen and help her, but it is too late. I have locked every sleeping dwarf in his or her room. And all those pathetic elves do is occupy our Trade Depot! Expedition Leader Nil bled to death. 4th Slate, WHY THE SHASH AM I WRITING THE DATE DOWN!? IT'S WAR!
Asen is down, Tosid murdered the goblin who was in the stairwell and has taken its place. Tosid, Rakust Stukosobur and Mistem Melbilmezum (who thought it was a great moment to go to bed, damned woman) are the only dwarves left capable of fighting. It is hopeless. Where's Reg? Alath is safely locked inside the Jewelers room with the jeweler. WHERE'S REG ROOMTALKS???
Tosid has gone in a martial trance! She is attacking those cursed goblin fiercely! GO!
She has knocked those last three goblins unconscious as they tried to flee out of the Trojan chimney! HAHAA! Now all she has left to do is fini-OH PAINFUL! She has left her martial trance, but attacked that downed goblin so hard that most, if not all of its limbs flew in the air! Its left upper leg even flew over the wall back into the chimney.
Tosid came victorious back inside after having murdered her three victims. Rakust has gone outside to finish those two goblins who were attacked successfully by war dogs. They are trying to run, but they can't stand! TAKE THAT YOU FILTHY SCUM!
He got the first one! Chopped its headed straight off. It flew at least 6 meters.
6th Slate, 1057
Rakust has taken the life of that last goblin. According to Rakust's report it became enraged right before he, Rakust, knocked the freak unconcious. All there was left to do was brutally mutilate the corpse.
Final report on the first war against the goblins of Obstusnang Slux, or "The Strapping Thief of Packing".
We won. Sustained major loses. Among the dead are eight dwarves, five of them Axedwarves, an Engraver, a Miner and a Peasant. Other deaths include four war dogs and two stray dogs. Among the enemies losses are seven goblins, six Hammermen and one Maceman. Attached are several sketches and drawing of the situation just after the last goblin had been slain.Attached to the page are several faded drawings. You can still read most of the words written below every one of them."First two dead soldiers. What was the second to last goblin. Rakust standing victoriously over a dismembered and mutilated goblin corpse. Two more dog corpses Chimney stairwell." Footnote: "Only one goblin managed to set foot here, in the fortress.
14th Slate, 1057
New migrants have arrived! We lost some of our better dwarves in this first battle with those goblins. Now I hope they have the skills we need. That is, a miner. I have assigned Dodok Ingishimsal, the Potash maker, to mine. He didn't seem to care that much, we do. His potash making isn't worth much notice.
Later today the elves prepared for their departure, finally. I requested where they were going and handed them last years report to be delivered to the Queen as fast as possible. And one to be delivered to my sister. They wished me the best of luck as I left them to gather their wares.
19th Slate, 1057
The migrants have arrived at the fortress. A Fish Cleaner, two Bone Carvers, four Peasants, two Furnace Operators, a Woodworker, a Weaver, two Stoneworkers, a Farmer, a Miller, a Gem Setter, another Siege Engineer, and a Hunter. And of course some of them brought pets. I think that's all of them.
23rd Slate, 1057
The downside of having a large fortress is that some dwarves tend to make more time to chat. Even more so now that I have allowed them to gather at the statue garden again. I am also looking for proper candidates for the Noble positions we now have open. Which are every single one. And for some new full-time Military dwarves since our last one has been destroyed. They rest in piec-eh, peace now. A second miner might also be a good idea. Dear lords so much to do so little time to do it all.
28th Slate, 1057
After a rough start of the month, and a huge influx of new migrants I have come to a decision. I have picked Onul Igerlorbam, the Cheese Maker, to take up mining as his main job now. He seemed happy with that news knowing he would no longer have to haul all sorts of stuff from one place to another all the time. Second of all, I've decided to move the barracks, which were build outside, inside with a separate bedroom to keep the sparring dwarves from rolling over their sleeping fellows, that is, if they'll be able to understand that. Also I have decided to add a second story to the main wall, just in case. Any Markdwarves we will train shall be able to fire at our enemies from a greater distance then. This last idea caused many of the dwarves to start working again. That, or their break was finally over.
The Stoneworkers have almost finished doubling the floor level of the main wall. Soon they will start on the Fortifications on top for our Marksdwarves to fire from. On the subject of Military dwarves, I have told the Hunter to stop bringing corpses into our fortress and will deconstruct the Butchery and Tanners Workshop once the last few corpses have been processed. Instead I have assigned him to the military and told all the farmers with at least novice skill in Growing plants to work as full-time as they can on the farms. This has resulted in the blooming of the first Sweet Pods, which means Dwarven Rum! Wonderful. Was about time.
On the topic of Nobles I have thought little. I think it's crucial to get a proper count of all our stocks, and perhaps, after I have made this third Ballista Arrow I will take that as my job. I mean, there is no need for two Siege Engineers in this fortress yet, and thus I can work on my other latent abilities without troubles.
On a last note for today, I have restricted access to 'infinity''s rooms. This because of a rumor I heard yesterday from one of my fellow dwarves. It was rumored that I had send out 'infinity' on purpose so that he would get cornered by the goblins. Absurd! During this morning's short meeting I made it clear, every dwarf who sets a foot from this day on in 'infinity''s rooms while I am leading this fortress shall be executed.
15th Felsite, 1057
The downside of dabbling miners is that they work slow. Slow and inefficient. They can hold a pickaxe alright, like every other dwarf, but that's it. Not only do they work slow, they also fail to create any usable stone for our stoneworkers. They should be learning faster. Slow digging. 20th Felsite, 1057
The miners have started working on my official residence for the year. I asked them to dig out the main floor first so I can set up my office and start taking stock. It will be a tower, towering above the wall as it will be. This will take time, and perhaps I might not be able to get it done this year. But it will be started, and it will provide me with an office, dining room, bedroom and a tomb. That's the least I deserve, right? Miners have begun digging out my office. 1st Hematite, 1057 - Early Summer It's summer. A toast! Here's hoping for the warmest summer in the history of Mamgozfath.
For those of you wondering why the start of this season makes me so happy and hopeful? Well, it's cold. And I don't like cold. No, I hate cold. It's too bloody cold here! And I fear for the winter, I fear for what it might bring, and what it will do with me. Either way, the miners have finished digging out the ground level of my residency and now the floors are being smoothed. Then a table and chair will be put in place and I shall start taking stock and giving out work orders, though not much work needs to be done. Note: Tosid Ibruknomal complained about being relieved from military duty. She re-enlisted and seems happier. 8th Hematite, 1057
Dear predecessor,
I, Vabok 'Deyd' Aludoslan, wish to hereby inform you of a grand mistake on your part. Now I know you have passed away since your turn, but I feel that it is my dwarven duty to at least make an attempt at informing you of this.
When I ordered the bridge of Mamgozfath to be retracted for inspection, I noticed it was useless. My fellow dwarves, and I, were still able to get over the empty moat. This due to it not having been channeled below the bridge prior to its construction. After having discovered this I immediately requested the masons to tear down parts of the fortress wall and the bridge in question. I have since made sure that the miners have completely channeled the moat at this crucial spot and ordered a new, raisable, bridge to be build instead. This bridge will function as an extra safeguard to prevent enemies from intruding into our fortress, whilst still being large enough for merchants with wagons to get inside after we've moved the Trade Depot within the fortress walls.
Sincerely your successor,
Vabok 'Deyd' Aludoslan.
17 Hematite, 1057
Today we have chosen a new Expedition Leader. After much debate, many arguments and numerous voting, we, the members of The Mindful Lanterns, citizens of the Hamlet Mamgozfath, have chosen as our leader, Logem Kinkib, Peasant. Bugger, my attempts at getting someone slightly more skilled appointed as our first mayor, he will be just that when more migrants arrive, have fallen upon deaf ears. Either way, he might be the leader, I manage this fortress, I keep it from becoming chaotic, again. To explain, I have taken the task of Hamlet Manager and Treasurer upon myself and have been very busy updating the stockpiles. It is frightening to see how much stock we actually have, for example, look at our food supplies. We have 204 prepared meals, most of which are Plump Helmet Stew and Biscuits. PLUMP HELMET STEW AND BISCUITS! I hate it when cooks destroy our food. Yes, they prepare some fine meals once in a while, but they also make the Plump Helmet Spawn useless, resulting in less seeds to plant on the fields, which in turn leads to less food and ale. We also have a great supply of drinks, 404 drinks as of writing, most of which is ale gotten from brewing Pig Tails. I will allow the cook to use the ale and syrup in his meals. We also have an equal amount of seeds, most notably a bunch of Hide root seeds which we will be able to use to set up our clothing department. Red might be the cheapest colour, but it looks by far the best, which reminds me, I should request designs for a flag. I'm imagining a red flag with a black emblem of sorts.
On the bright side, it's actually getting pleasant outside, or I'm just getting used to the cold. I have moved into my new office which stands outside the fortress, a magnificent tower worthy of my brilliance! At least, I hope. It is far from done, and the miners have been busy finishing up the new, large barracks and will soon begin digging out the room next to it for sleeping squads. They have found a small copper vein and some native aluminum, but I have yet to hear of them successfully digging out some useful rocks out of them.
Much more I do not know of what has been going on in the fortress itself. I have sheltered myself and ordered a few dwarves to bring four barrels of Dwarven Rum, Swamp Whiskey, Sewer Brew and Gutter Cruor to my residency. Even though we only have the rum and whiskey it is good to plan in advance. I see this fortress more and more becoming a great city from where armies will march and slay every goblin they find. If only I was more skilled in managing the finer points of running a fortress as this, the craft and trade. If you're wondering where the Swamp Whiskey came from, it was in our Trade Depot. I had forbid that area during the goblin assault and forgot about the wares that were put there, I don't even remember how we obtained most of these goods. Did our trader trade our crafts for these things? Cloth? Gnomeblight? We have recovered it though and as I write dwarves are busy moving many of the crafts and goods inside the fortress.
The wall is also looking better each day, even though not much work is being done to it. The second story is slowly getting finished up but is already functional and looking great. I was thinking about building an archery range with Marksdwarf bedrooms above the stone stockpiles. With the archery range leading directly onto the wall. That way our Marksdwarves will be able to mobilize very quickly in case of an emergency. I have not finalized these plans as they are a bit too far in the future in my opinion, seeing as we only have one Marksdwarf at all times.
19th Hematite, 1057
Curses! I recieved notification that the Steel chain mail I had requested to be retrieved as soon as possible has been stolen. Most likely a sneaky Kobold. These are the troubles you run into when you try to retrieve various objects of interest. Once you start looking for them, Kobolds will try to steal them.
25th Hematite, 1057
More good omens have come! Alath has given birth to a foal, it's a boy. I have also started building a wall around the Trojan chimney. I am issuing this order for the future, we will be able to grow daylight plants up there without much trouble. Perhaps we could even build a glass roof on top of it. A new foal.
Not much has happened the last few weeks. Work on the outside farm wall continues as on the main wall. I am still updating the stockpiles and am about halfway through everything I think. Everyone is busy working wherever, be it building more bins to store all the items in, to gathering scattered armor and goods. Everything is nice and quiet. I like this, pleasant weather, no worries, all while drinking from a mug filled with home brewed Dwarven Rum.
11th Malachite, 1057
I shouldn't have written about the no worries. Another goblin ambush, this time one of the horses, I think the foal, walked into it, but dwarves are not far away hauling goods inside the fortress. There are seven of them, mostly axemen. All dwarves are ordered to get inside.
Those heartless bastards! They just attack that poor foal as if it's normal! It quickly ran off and they are pursuing her, Sodel Zuglaresis. Lets hope it will buy the dwarves outside enough time to get safely inside.
12th Malachite, 1057
Reports have arrived that there are several migrants on their way to the fortress. And with that Logem Kinkeb has become the first Mayor of Mamgozfath. A Fortress Guard also seems to be necessary. Darn you people! Don't you realize that we are under attack!? The foal just got struck down, one of our blacksmiths is being chased by a goblin, one of our jewelers is near that also trying to avoid being attacked AND then the miner withdraws from society. Curse this string of bad luck.
13th Malachite, 1057
The jeweler seems to have outsmarted the main goblin force and managed to sneak past them and has run towards the Trojan chimney where axe and marksdwarves are standing on guard. The Blacksmith seems to be able to outrun the sole goblin that is chasing him, but I suspect that the other goblins will soon team up with that one and pin him down in the already dead end he has run in. Unless he manages to trick those goblins similary as the jeweler did, I do not see him returning to the fortress alive. On the plus side, the new migrants have taken a pretty safe route and will arrive most likely without much trouble. Lastly, the miner has claimed the Mason workshop.
Oh shit! Mistem Melbilmezum has attacked the main force without notify. She has already managed to kill one of the goblins.
WHAT!? The 6, well 5 now, goblins that surrounded and fought Mistem are fleeing! They are really trying to get away. Even the lone goblin chasing the Blacksmith is running away. Poor Mistem has been hit in her right leg though and thus can't walk. Sending out the stationed troops in the hope they can do something.
15th Malachite, 1057
Stationed troops were too late and sadly couldn't kill any more of that scum. Their combined reports informed me that Mistem just kept on walking the moment she came outside. There she brutally attacked one of the goblins, cutting off its left leg, left arm and right hand. She then fought the remaining 5 goblins that now had surrounded her and were attacking. She delivered a damaging blow to one of the goblins head damaging it severely, this goblin fell unconscious during its escape. She seemed to enjoy the slaughter judging from the goblin corpse. Her right lower leg was broken in the fight. The woodcutter Edem Gerigmelbil went out to recover her the moment non-soldiers were allowed to go outside again.
Final report on the second ambush by the goblins of Obstusnang Slux, or "The Strapping Thief of Packing".
Losses were equal this time around. On our side we lost Sodel Zuglaresis, a tame Horse foal. Its master, Ral Thikutesmul, shall be supported when needed. One goblin was killed. Wounded were three goblins, a heavy concussion and a severed hand were reported by our soldiers. Mistem Melbilmezum sustained a few bruises and a broken leg. She has been rescued and given rest. Water and food will be supplied when she so wishes, during this period.
17th Malachite, 1057
The miner, Dodok Ingishimsal, has started the construction of something. Why does he have to be so secret about it? I asked several other dwarves, but he won't let anyone get near him and this obsession.
22nd Malachite, 1057
Dodok has finished his artifact! He made a Gneiss weapon rack called Kulalanil. It's encircled with bands of Rope reed and Tin and menaces with spikes of Gneiss. He put two images of a Copper flask on it, one in mountain goat bone and one in Tin. He has become a Legendary Miner. Wonderful. What looked to be a horrible month has become a great month instead. Peace, quiet and prosperity. 4th Galena, 1057 - Late Summer
Since our population has risen to 51 dwarves, and 15 animals, we have become a village. And a village is lead by a mayor. Thus we have started the construction of a mayor's residency. It's not something huge, but still very spacious and should be enough for now.
9th Galena, 1057
Mayor Logem Kinkib has issued an export mandate, we are to not trade our Lay pewter items. Good thing we have no Lay pewter items that I know off. Stock counts are coming along nicely, I have counted most things by now and am finishing everything off hopefully at the start of Autumn.
28th Galena, 1057
Not much news has happened. The wall around the to be outside farm is almost finished. As is the mayor's residency, two thrones need to be made though whilst the rock walls and floors are being smoothed. As for my residency, the miners have almost completely detached it from the mountain, making it a nice tower or sorts.
[[I'll crop and put the images up later - Garble.]]
The mayor's residency is finished. An office, a dining room and a bed. Though he still isn't happy. He wants more fancy stuff. We'll he'll get his fancy stuff, some day. For now
15th Limestone, 1057
A thief! The Miller Tulon Kadolmistem discovered him just outside the main wall. He quickly stopped his actions and knocked the kobold unconcious. I send out Tosid to finish it off.
16th Limestone, 1057
The village liaison has arrived along with the traders. However, because the new Trade Depot has not yet been constructed they informed me that they will move on. This does not worry me much since we are already capable of sustaining ourselves without trouble, but I do have assigned 'am_dragon' to design and construct a Trade Depot inside the walls. Perhaps they will change their mind before leaving.
Also, Tosid has taken out the kobold, somehow a few of its limbs and the majority of its blood lie close to the stairwell, whilst its body lies a huge distance away. She, Tosid Ibruknomal, returned to her post with a smirk.
17th Limestone, 1057
The weaponsmith Fikod Oddomiklist has caught another kobold thief. I've enlisted him to kill this kobold to the best of his abilities.
18th Limestone, 1057
A third thief has been spotted, this time by Rakust, the wood burner and one of the part time Axedwarves. Id Ozsitkogan, the Marksdwarf stationed on the wall shot immediately, Mistem and Tosid also jumped into action and ran towards the kobold, but Rakust managed to kill it pretty fast.
Mistem is thus back on her feet and shall be removed from military duty. Rakust will replace her at the gate. The weaponsmith did not manage to kill his target and has been relieved of military duty as of writing.
Only a few minutes after the previous alerts a fourth call is heard through the village. Another kobold thief. This time discovered by Feb Omusurvad, a Peasant, not far away from where Fikod had spotted one. They seem to come from the west. Feb and Fikod have been assigned to handle the job. Neither of them has any skills in combat, but together they could easily dispatch of the pest. I shall assign Feb Omusurvad to be a full time soldier.
The mayor also started his meeting with the village liaison, much laughter is heard from the area. Quite possibly picking this mayor was a good choice after all. He requested Cave Wheat seeds for those who prefer to drink Dwarven Beer, and less important, livestock. Cows, horses, donkeys and dogs. That way we can get meat without having to risk dwarves. And of course dogs we can train to become war dogs.
22nd Limestone, 1057
'am_dragon' finished building the new Trade Depot today. Word has been send out to the traders, they seem to be glad with this news and are coming to the fortress.
24th Limestone, 1057
The trade agreement has been made. Mebzuth Ular has requested spears, cheese, headwear and ashes as top priorty, then shields and bucklers, then plants, crowns, legwear and footwear and the lowest priority for fish and flasks. We will be payed very well if we trade these items with the caravan next year. 2nd Sandstone, 1057 - Mid Autumn
The merchants have arrived at our Trade Depot. There are many of them, four on my count, each with their own bodyguard. They seem to have brought a lot of interesting and useful goods for us to trade. Hopefully the mayor will be able to estimate the worth of our goods and trade fairly.
I doubt that though.
11th Sandstone, 1057
Our mayor has gotten around to start negotiations with the traders. Only a few more things need to be hauled to the Trade Depot, but dwarves have taken up those tasks and are getting them.
After several offers and a few counter offers from the merchants an agreement was made. The wooden toys, Gnomeblight, wooden shields and spear and a lot of arrows we got from the Elves in addition to a fraction of our supply of leather and silk goblin and kobold clothing, have been trade for all the meat, cloth and leather they had brought with them. A reasonable trade if you ask me, though I can't help but feel like we got ripped off some.
17th Sandstone, 1057
The merchants are packing. The mayor and I shook hands with them as we thanked them, and they thanked us, for the goods they brought us. Good luck wishes were exchanged as they left through the gate.
That means winter will be coming soon. In about one and a half months. The thought alone makes me shiver with cold. I have asked Tobul Onshenkel, our cook, to make the best meals he has ever made with the traded meat and fish, and some wine and ale.
25th Sandstone, 1057
I've had it! This disgusting miasma always lurking to try and get inside my home. It must be moved, it shall be moved. And it shall be outside in the sun, where, when those corpses rot, no miasma will be created. That shall solve all our current and future troubles with this form of silent death. The cook has made some great dishes with all the meat and fish.
28th Sandstone, 1057
I think it's already getting colder. Because of this I have decided to build vertical bars right behind our bridge as secondary defense layer. These will be hooked up to a second lever, west of the lever that raises and lowers the bridge. My home is pretty much done now. Perhaps I should add another story to it. But I have no idea what to put there. I already have an office, a dining room, though that still needs some hauling, my bedroom, and a tomb when my coffin is done. Descisions, descisions.
Stukos Zonidek, one of the weaponsmiths, has withdrawn from society. He refuses to talk to anyone and reason. Lets hope he is not planning to silently murder me in my sleep.
17th Timber, 1057
Stukos Zonidek has taken over the metalsmiths forge. I wonder what he's planning to do while in it.
18th Timber, 1057
Some Zinc bars have gone missing, though someone said he saw Stukos holding some tightly to his chest as he made his way back to the forge, where he began working. Is he going to make his weapon to murder me out of Zinc, and in plain sight?!
22th Timber, 1057
Oh praise be to ye gods who have protected me and watched over me since birth. Please beg your brother, the one amongst you capable of taking live, please beg him to not summon my soul, and please protect me from master Stukos Zonidek his thorn and sword for I fear his possible intentions."
Below this paragraph is the authors name, written in intricate letters of dried blood. The rest of the page is filled with dried drops of blood of various sizes. Next page. "1st Moonstone, 1057 - Early Winter
Winter has come. It became noticeable in the last week of Timber, that ruthless cold. The ponds and little lakes have already frozen over. The small channel in the fortress that is filled with water is unfrozen, and will probably stay that way through the winter. It will be useful when somebody gets wounded.
Our mechanic has been working slowly on the Tin gate, too slowly. I have thus asked the miners and masons to mess some more with the moat, making it bigger and around the entire wall. My idea to fill it with spikes still seems like a good idea to me, however we won't be able to follow through on this plan.
A month or two in the past, perhaps three, I asked 'am_dragon' if he could design a Windmill. He told me then that it would take time to which I replied that there was no hurry. With winter coming I wish to have every dwarf working inside, instead of gathering goods outside. This will allow us to train some soldiers, for example. Food and drinks are abundant, and if we were to stop harvesting and brewing now we would easily survive to the next summer.
17th Moonstone, 1057
Curses! Another ambush by those goblins. This time six macemen and an Axe Lord. Udil Keskalcatten, a peasant, spotted them on his way home. All Dwarves are ordered inside. The Axe Lord instantly struck our brother down.
18th Moonstone, 1057
Three other dwarves were caught outside the main wall when the ambush was discovered. These were the siege engineer, a leatherworker and a blacksmith. The leatherworker and siege engineer managed to get within the walls, but the goblin Axe Lord was on their heels and managed to get in with the dwarves.
19th Moonstone, 1057
Smunstu Urarobsar, the goblin Axe Lord has killed both the siege engineer and leatherworker that managed to get home, but too late. The other goblins have been cut off from us though and will not be able to enter. I have locked myself, and Alath in my office and locked the door. Reg is inside the fortress. I have instructed my dwarves to lock the doors in the dividing wall and ordered the soldiers to stand behind them. I am capable of surviving here if we talk about food and drinks. Call it intuition or something, but I had asked the dwarves to move some prepared food to my small food stockpile. I have 37 rations of Dwarven wine roast and 16 mugs of Swamp Whiskey.
The axedwarves however think it's better to sleep, or eat, only Id Ozsitkogan, the marksdwarf, and Feb Tomusurvad, the recruit, are either in position, or getting in position. Id has already fired a few bolts at the goblins still outside the fortress.
The dwarves managed to pull the bridge lever as I mentioned earlier, they however are too scared to get near the Tin gate lever and pull it due to the goblins outside the fortress wall. These levers must thus be moved further away from the wall. If I do not manage to survive this, then I hope my successor will find his note. No news about Tosid Uristzokun, the blacksmith trapped outside. Id shouted that he had seen two goblins go in the direction Tosid went. I will assume that I will not see her alive again.
20th Moonstone, 1057
Id has been doing some target practice on the goblins. Alternating between raining death upon the four goblins outside the gates, and the Axe Lord inside. He managed to kill one of the goblins outside by firing a few salvos at the creature. Hitting the Axe Lord was harder though. He fired many bolts at the bastard, almost a dozen, but it kept dodging around. With his last steel bolt Id took careful aim at the freak and shot. And hit, in the head even. It dug deep, breaking the creatures head, nose and brain and damaging its left eye and neck. It promptly fell unconscious, out of breath.
All that armor, beaten by an average marksdwarf and a steel bolt. The sight isn't pretty, even from the top of my tower I can see the creature lying down on the ground, face up, blood gushing out of it's face obscuring its features. At least it's no longer on the Trade Depot, though all that blood might flow through the entire courtyard. We'll have a lot of cleaning to do.
He's gone. When he, Smunstu Urarobsar, came to he shrieked several times in agony, loudly, with diminishing strength. He tried to crawl away, but didn't get far before passing away.
21st Moonstone, 1057
I have unlocked my door and those dividing the courtyard in two. Live goes on relatively normal. Outside the wall I have spotted five goblins, they are all tightly huddled together just staring at our raised bridge. There's nothing they can do. Five goblins, I think this means that they killed Tosid. I have ordered the siege operator to fire the north-aimed Ballista at will. This will most likely scare those goblins shitless and perhaps make them flee. All of the axedwarves have slept at some point during this attack. Tosid Ibruknomal just woke up and goes to the gate where she will be stationed untill further notice.
Typical, though I don't blame them, many of the dwarves that are trying to do tasks in the courtyard are scared every time one of those goblins shrieks. This includes the siege operator. In the mean time Id has returned to his position on the wall and is once again firing at the goblins outside.
23rd Moonstone, 1057
Panic keeps breaking out every time those goblins shriek. I have ordered all dwarves to go back inside for this is not helping. Id has killed another goblin and there are now three outside the wall. Yes, three, I wonder where the fourth one went.
A report from the lower levels, the miners have struck Orpiment! Good to hear, also, our mayor has lifted his mandate, we can now export pewter again.
Id took another shot and mangled the weapon arm of one of the goblins. This was enough and the four surviving goblins are now running away. Axedwarves have been send out to deal with them. It has also started snowing. Curses.
24th Moonstone, 1057
Mistem Melbilmezum has caught up with the slowest goblin. She has knocked it out of her path with three strong blows. It was dead before it hit the ground again. The next goblin is already unconcious and the last two seem to have taken the descision to run as fast as they can.
Good news! Rosid Uristzokun, the trapped blacksmith, managed to stay alive. She was able to outrun and outsmart the few pesky goblins that did indeed chase her. Wonderful news, this means we only lost three dwarves thus far.
Mistem has decided to chop this already unconcious goblin to pieces, the lobbed off both its hands and then planted her axe on its neck, taking off the head before pursuing the other goblins.
Final report on the third attack by the goblins of Obstusnang Slux, or "The Strapping Thief of Packing".
It's over. Mistem has returned and reported to me that she couldn't catch those last two goblins. She has been relieved from duty again. Losses were on both sides, but favored on our side. Three dwarves have died on our side against five goblins killed. No wounds were sustained by any of the surviving dwarves or goblins.
27th Moonstone, 1057
Impossible! Two days after we took care of the third goblin ambush, a fourth is discovered. Cerol Uristshar, Sodel Morsibrek's cat, walked into this ambush. This one of course also consists out of seven goblins with one commander. I am not worried that much about the loss of that cat, however, Fath Asiztun, our legendary metalcrafter who made Fath Asiztun, a Tin earrinn, is awefully close and can be easily cut off when she tries to get back to the fortress. All dwarves are ordered to get inside.
On the plus side of this fourth ambush, it is led by nobody else but goblin Ruler and Mace Lord Aslot Snodubsokrox. It will be hard to kill him with our small group of soldiers, but we shall do our best and will show those goblins once and for all who rules here! DWARVES I SAY!
The goblins quickly dealt with Cerol by surrounding and forcefully sending it flying through the air. Fath has fled west. Perhaps she'll survive this ambush also this way. Also, I cannot find Reg Roomtalks.
A fourth ambush. And that whilst the goblin Ruler himself is still here with his group. Reg Mosusmasos walked into this ambush. Poor Reg, I shall have her put in my tomb, if I can. What is particulary interesting about this ambush is that is consists of five creatures, four of which are goblin Lashers, and one human Axe Lord. If this means those humans want war, then they will get war! TO ARMS!
Fath Asiztun, our legendary metalcrafter, has been struck down. She got tired of running and had nonchalantly fallen asleep. The goblin hammerman that was chasing her took this opportunity and attacked, knocking her back and out and then finished the job. Reg Mosusmasos has also been struck down. I SHALL NOT FORGIVE YOU NGOKANG KUTSMOBXUKONG! You are as low as those goblins you lead, no lower, you most likely have enslaved those goblins and force them to fight for you, force them to kill innocent cats. May your gods take pity on you when I am done with you! Menaceddrools, what a pathetic name only worthy of an pathetic scumbag of bones of a human.
12th Opal, 1057
The gate is closed, the bridge is raised, and nothing happens. The invading parties rest where they were when we sealed our wall. I told the soldiers they could stand down and spar a bit if they liked. They did, Feb Tomusurvad has now become a Wrestler.
17th Opal, 1057
Such stark contrast. Outside our fortress are invaders, willing to murder every last one of us, death, and inside we prosper and live and newborn live comes into existance. Edem Gerigmelbil, our woodcutter, wife of Atir Limulmatul, one of our planters. Together they have given birth to Mosus Fikodnish, a girl. She looks strong and healthy, she might grow up to become a good miner one day. We will have a toast as celebration of this new start.
We are The Mindful Lanterns! Citizens of The Oar of Idols, citizens the village of Mamgozfath! We came here, all searching for a better life, all searching for adventure, all searching for purpose in our dwarven lifes. What we found was chaos and death, war and blood, but we all kept hope. We kept hope high, and prayed to our gods that they would keep protecting us! And so they did. They have given us the strength to build our walls high, and our hearts strong. They blessed our farm which is overgrowing with Plump Helmets as we speak. And now, now the gods have given us their final blessing, life! They have given to us this dwarvenchild, to raise and to teach and to train, and to perhaps one day follow when we have all grown old with age. Let us make this toast, and let us mark this day, for from this day on we will prosper and overcome!
We are The Mindful Lanterns! We are the citizens of The Oar of Idols! We are the citizens of Mamgozfath! Praised be the gods! Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah!
20th Opal, 1057
Mayor Logem Kinkib has revealed to us why he put a ban on the export of Lay pewter earlier this year. He has just given a mandate for the construction of three Lay pewter items. I shall try to get this done in my term, but with a little over two months left and our enemies outside that will might be difficult. But first I will sleep. 2nd Obsidian, 1057 - Late Winter
The situation outside remains hostile, however all is peaceful inside our fortress wall. I have requested to building of two more copper doors to properly close the main hall. A path will be constructed underneath it just like to the farm. This way people can gather and party in the main hall without having to step aside for every person just passing through. I have also ordered the creation of a few hatch covers to seal of some of our stairwells. One of which being the stairwell to my roof and one to the outside farm. This will keep the warmth inside I hope. The downside of not being able to go outside is that we have run out of wood.
11th Obsidian, 1057
Wonderful! The head miner has struck Galena in the main hall passage. We can make the mandated Lay Pewter with that. Lets see, what else was needed for Lay Pewter. The furnace operator's instructions have been changed from melting enough copper bars for two new copper doors to making lead and Lay Pewter bars. And seeing as the mayor is only requesting Lay Pewter items we can perhaps ask Stukos Zonidek our legendary Weaponsmith to make a few masterful weapons.
22nd Obsidian, 1057
The end of my term is quickly drawing closer. The first Lay Pewter bar is being made as I am writing and I will check up on that work in a few minutes. The farm is very empty at the moment, the planters are letting it lie fallow till spring or so. We could fertilize it with potash, but there is no need for such activities. I prefer to know that the dwarves aren't spending most of their energy near the farms. A cold chill lingers there, coming from the small pond.
'am_dragon' is working hard, engraving the walls and floors of my office with various depictions, some are truly masterful and others not that much to my liking. They are well craftred, exceptionally well, just the depictions of death is something I do not prefer. I love it though, as I love my Mausoleum. I have given up hope on recovering Reg Mosusmasos's body before it has rotten beyond recognition. Alath shall then be put in that second coffin.
26th Obsidian, 1057
The furnace operator, Litast Kogankilrud, has made four Lay Pewter bars, wonderfull, now what to make of them. I was thinking about placing the objects in the mayor's dinner room. That way he can be content with that for a change. Picky guy. I think I'll write a work order for a cabinet, two chests and a sarcophagus. My successor will probably have to put them in place since my term is as good as done. Don't worry though, I shall stick around and write out and approve work orders as my successors please.
Uhh... good write-up, but can we wrap it up now? Or at the very least, send in the save? Kthxbye.
Yes, yes, it's done. File is uploaded to Rapidshare and has been send to Scott. Now all that's left is copying copious amounts of text, formatting it and cropping and inserting the images in the proper places. Cropping~
Done, fourteen points of interest. I might remove some later though for they are just blobs of ideas. Will put those in the some tips/ideas for successor section.
Hey, I just read this notice in The Dwarven Times:
"Help Wanted: Ruler for small band of goblins living, raiding in picturesque mountain setting. No experience necessary, must provide own weapons. Cash bonuses for successful sieges."
OK, it's mea culpa time. I didn't plan carefully enough, and left only two days to get this done. Turns out, not enough time, what with interruptions and other RL shit going on. My bad.
I've finished only 4 months of the year, and I'm not going to get it done today, and therefore not for at least three more days until I have some free time to finish it. So, Andrew, the choice is yours: you can either a) Do my year over now using the last save, b) I provide you with the save in its current state, and you have the opportunity to finish my year and yours (wouldn't recommend it, too much work) or c) wait for three days until I get a chance to finish.
Entirely up to you to decide. I just can't get any more done today without my head asploding. Sorry.
Prediction: People not caring when their turn comes. People not finishing. It's the beginning of the end for our dwarves.
Note: If this prediction doesn't come true, it's not because I am bad at predicting. It's because I purposefully posted this prediction to encourage players to not let the game die.
Prediction: People not caring when their turn comes. People not finishing. It's the beginning of the end for our dwarves.
Note: If this prediction doesn't come true, it's not because I am bad at predicting. It's because I purposefully posted this prediction to encourage players to not let the game die.
#1 Reason To Keep Playing This Game: Within weeks (OK, probably months) you'll be able to create armies and send them out to conquer your enemies. Oh yes. Goblins and kobolds, I'm looking at you.
Computer is too slow.
I'm going to insult your intelligence by suggesting you haven't read this guide.
I'm going to insult your intelligence by suggesting you haven't readthis guide.
Those sorts of changes aren't enough. As soon as I saw how fast the game went on Rym's computer, I realized that most of my time I had spent playing the game was useless waiting around.
Those sorts of changes aren't enough. As soon as I saw how fast the game went on Rym's computer, I realized that most of my time I had spent playing the game was useless waiting around.
Surely not, I've got a 1.8 ghz and I'm usually busy all the time. When I'm not, I'm looking through the wiki. When I hit the 50 dwarf mark my laptop fan is working way too hard.
OK, I'm finally back into the game. I have a few points to make:
1) Magma is hot when you fall into it. 2) Bronze isn't as quality as iron (or steel), but it can be made rather sharp anyway. 3) There's a reason dwarves live underground behind huge stone doors. Fucking goblins.
Comments
With that said, here's the introductory post:
Before your eyes lies an old book, bound in what appears to be tough deer leather. Its dark brown colour has faded over the years and scorch marks adorn its spine. On it you see an exceptionally well designed image of a dwarf and a rock. The dwarf wields the rock and looks intimidating. Above it you read the words:
These are the Gathered Writings of a Mad Dwarf
And below it you read: "as compiled by Likot Thatthilistam, grand niece of Vabok 'Deyd' Aludoslan". The image is outlined with cave spider silk thread. You notice it was once locked tightly with three copper locks. None of which are left in place. You open the book, some of the pages are brittle and fall apart upon your touch. You carefully start reading..."Chapter 8 - History of Mamgozfath, 'Dragonsacks', and My Influence.
The Year of the First, 1057.
It was the year of 1056, the 6th of Obsidian when I, Vabok 'Deyd' Aludoslan, received word from the local mayor. He had gotten a letter from our Queen requesting him to send one or two of his greatest minds to an outpost in the north called Mamgozfath, or 'Dragonsacks' in the commoners mouth, to replace the retiring outpost leader. It would be a 10 day trip from our settlement.
Having discussed for three days with the man it was settled, I was to go to Mamgozfath, to my dismay. I saw no use for a simple Siege Engineer as myself to be at such a young outpost as Mamgozfath, let alone lead it. Armies march when when a city thrives! Not when it's learning how to walk. He informed me that he would have a donkey with supplies for the journey ready with the week, the 16th of Obsidian. That way I had time to settle in and calmly discuss business with the outpost leader before taking his place.
The donkey was indeed ready the 16th and the provisions supplied would indeed last me for 10 days, perhaps 12 if I restrained myself from overindulging in the biscuits and rum. Since I most likely had to spend the majority of the next 10 days with the donkey, I called it Alath Keskalreg.
The first three days of travel were prosperous, at the end of the third day I crossed paths with a dwarven caravan. We set up camp for the night there and they happily told me all about their travels. Coincidently they were on their way home after trading with Mamgozfath and a few of the dwarven settlements further north and east from there.
They gave me some great information, for one I should take the initiative when talking with the then outpost leader for rumours were that he was slightly chaotic in his activities. Nothing bad, he tended to forget some things and made some weird decisions.
The most interesting bit they told me about were the trading rights issued by the Queen. Apparently the settlement where the current outpost leader came from had the sole right of sending a trading caravan to gather the riches from Mamgozfath. I think my mayor chose me for my known interest in art and crafts. I'll show him.
Lastly they informed me that I would easily get to Mamgozfath in seven more days. I could probably do it in five if I packed up one hour earlier and stopped one hour later each day than I had planned. In return for all this information, and warmer clothing, for apparently it was always cold up there in the mountains, darn you mayor, I traded them two days worth of provisions.
They were great early risers themselves and helped me pack and get on my way the next morning. The early rising and later sleeping, and the fact that it was getting colder with every two steps I took forward, was more taxing than I had suspected. And after five days there was still no sign of Mamgozfath, and neither was there sign of my provisions. Of course without food or rum how is a dwarf to survive? Yes, I tried to kill the donkey there and then, it would've been the easiest thing to do. I tried to catch it a few times throughout the day, but it kept running away. I'm not a ranger cagith out loud, what did you expect? And besides, her brays sounded so sad each time I scared the bejesus out of her.
I, well we, thus resorted to eating whatever edible plant life we came across. Damn those merchants, I should have questioned their motivations when I asked for those giant cave swallow leather boots, instead of the deer leather ones. After four more days I finally arrived at Mamgozfath. I shall thank the gods who kept me safe those last four nights for the rest of my life.
What a great way to start your term as leader, arriving on the back of a donkey after having lived of roots and sticks for the last four days. Thankfully the fortress was well stocked with food and drink, and I was quickly provided with a plate of food and a wooden mug with ale. The food and the ale were amazing, got my spirits back in no time, though I would've prefered rum. Note to self, ask the trader to trade us some sweet pods. Now all that was left to do was meet up with my predecessor and keep the fortress running smoothly.
A talk with the Expedition Leader and my predecessor resulted in some shocking results. Not a single dwarf here knew what anything was worth. Let alone anything the traders would bring with them. The stocks were also left ignored. Nil Nekollikot, the Expedition Leader and a Planter, informed me that the Queen had send him, and six other dwarves, here to reclaim the site. They had been cleaning up for two years by now and everything was still a mess outside. Status
I feared this would mean that food stocks were very low, so I quickly tried to find the kitchen. Which is a difficult thing to do in a maze like this fortress. However, I did find it, and to great shock the idiot cook there just wanted to cook our wine and ale! I called him mad and disallowed any use of alcohol in cooking. Even without proper count everyone could see we had little alcohol left. Only a hundred and fifty or so against over double that amount in meals. Wine and ale
Upon further investigation of the fortress I came upon the leader quarters. Supposedly every dwarf who leads this fortress for a year is allowed to build a nice bedroom for themselves. The rooms look decent, but there's nothing sealing the inside of our fortress from the outside here. Any winged monster will be able to just fly into our fortress and rip whoever is in their room to shreds. And then I haven't even talked about the charcoal west wall! I shall ask the masons to take down these walls and replace them with proper rock walls. And I'll seal these rooms of from that fancy porch, or whatever you may call it. No freaks shall enter my fortress this easily.
I was then led to the frontdoors and the enclosed courtyard. Enclosed with swish cheese! Whoever build this wall hopefully expected to line it with trained Marksdwarves. I however see no Marksdwarves in millitary service. I shall ask the masons to replace that wall with a proper closed wall also. And I've found the perfect location for my residence for the year. Some parts of the fortress look nice though. My two predecessors are both very skilled engravers, and have decorated a lot of walls and floors with various images. Though the only masterpieces I've seen from them so far deal with dead horses and purring maggots. At least purring maggots can be milked.
2nd Granite, 1057
I do have to say. These dwarves know what working is, after they helped me settle in we tackled the task I had planned with many hands. That's me and 'am_dragon' Ogredmeng to the right. Hard work
5th Granite, 1057:
We've been busy taking down the fortifications at our main entrance. But that's not what I wanted to say. A kitten has been following me for a few days now, it seems to really like me, and she's very cute. I called her Reg Mosusmasos, Reg Roomtalks for commoners, for her mews are so loud and distinct. An adorable little creature. More hard work Community effort
20th Granite, 1057
Oh no! 'infinity' Udiblecad has walked into an Ambush! Those damned Goblins! They cornered the poor guy. I drafted him into the millitary, in the hopes he would be able to fend them of for a bit till the Axedwarves got to his location. Ambush!
MOTHRAM THEM! MOTHRAM ALL OF THEM GOBLINS! They send poor 'infinity' flying with only a few hits of their hammers. He landed dead, about ten meters further. First death
The weaver, Shorast Razescog, wanted to recover the body and bury our friend immediately. I had to stop him, I didn't want any more casualties on our side. The cheesemaker, who was also on top of the hill managed to flee down the stairs. I locked the door and ordered the axedwarves to stand there. WHERE ARE THEY!?
23rd Granite, 1057
Elven merchants have arrived at our Trade Depot and are unloading their goods. I decided to gather all the useless clothing we had lying around in the hopes those Elves would trade them for something useful. The goblins seem to depart slowly. Damn them, and where the hell is my rum?! Merchants have arrived<
Hahaa! Still good news for today, Reg Mosusmasos has grown to become an adult feline. Now she shall help Cerol Uristshar, Sodel Morsibrek's cat, in keeping our fortress vermin free. Reg Mosusmasos has grown to become a cat
28th Granite, 1057
It's been only 5 days since those goblins took away 'infinity' from us, and now they've claimed their second victim. Axedwarf As Alaklikot ventured out on his own without letting me know. That's it, screw those elves. I hoped they had something, anything, that would be worth the hassle of exposing the fortress to those damned goblins. Instead we lost a second dwarf and traded nothing. I have ordered that all non-soldiers stay inside at all times until further notice. I'll raise the bridge once every dwarf is safely inside.
These... 'military' dwarves seem to lack any brains. Even when ordered to stay together as one squad, and guard the front entrance there is that single idiot who ventures out to steal his fallen comrade's equipment. I'M TALKING ABOUT YOU LED NINGRIGOTH! Our second soldier that has been struck down. Three war dogs stupidly followed him towards their death, one managed to damage one goblin's left upper leg very well. Battle greed.
3rd Slate, 1057
More dogs attacking the goblins, again only one dealing some damage to one goblin's leg, Kib Fokerzulban, a peasant/Axedwarf runs outside with no goal whatsoever. When I try to get a dwarf to pick up that damned narrow wolf leather cloak that's keeping the door of our fortress' chimney open. I.E. All hell breaks loose! Dumat Etasfikod runs up the stairway where he meets up with Nil Nekollikot, the Expedition Leader, both fight the goblin trying to come down and they knock him unconscious, Dumat runs outside and attacks the four goblins standing just outside the Trojan chimney. He manages to cut of the left arm or one of the goblins, now all it has is a shield in its right hand. He also deals some damage to a second goblin's upper leg before being taken out by a healthy unharmed murderous goblin.
Nil has sustained a lot of damage, but the goblin on the stairs above him is in worse shape, he has taken a lot of damage to his upper body, head and brain, lost his left arm and right eye, and has taken a lot of damage to his right hand, liver and heart. He is down and will stop breathing soon. Asen Oshrirastis, now the leader of the military has joined up with Nil and she has finished the goblin.
Nil bled to death. Asen has walked outside and is fighting bravely. Poor girl. Tosid Ibruknomal has taken station at the bottom of the chimney and is doing her best to get to Asen and help her, but it is too late. I have locked every sleeping dwarf in his or her room. And all those pathetic elves do is occupy our Trade Depot! Expedition Leader Nil bled to death.
4th Slate, WHY THE SHASH AM I WRITING THE DATE DOWN!? IT'S WAR!
Asen is down, Tosid murdered the goblin who was in the stairwell and has taken its place. Tosid, Rakust Stukosobur and Mistem Melbilmezum (who thought it was a great moment to go to bed, damned woman) are the only dwarves left capable of fighting. It is hopeless. Where's Reg? Alath is safely locked inside the Jewelers room with the jeweler. WHERE'S REG ROOMTALKS???
Tosid has gone in a martial trance! She is attacking those cursed goblin fiercely! GO!
She has knocked those last three goblins unconscious as they tried to flee out of the Trojan chimney! HAHAA! Now all she has left to do is fini-OH PAINFUL! She has left her martial trance, but attacked that downed goblin so hard that most, if not all of its limbs flew in the air! Its left upper leg even flew over the wall back into the chimney.
Tosid came victorious back inside after having murdered her three victims. Rakust has gone outside to finish those two goblins who were attacked successfully by war dogs. They are trying to run, but they can't stand! TAKE THAT YOU FILTHY SCUM!
He got the first one! Chopped its headed straight off. It flew at least 6 meters.
6th Slate, 1057
Rakust has taken the life of that last goblin. According to Rakust's report it became enraged right before he, Rakust, knocked the freak unconcious. All there was left to do was brutally mutilate the corpse.
Final report on the first war against the goblins of Obstusnang Slux, or "The Strapping Thief of Packing".
We won. Sustained major loses. Among the dead are eight dwarves, five of them Axedwarves, an Engraver, a Miner and a Peasant. Other deaths include four war dogs and two stray dogs. Among the enemies losses are seven goblins, six Hammermen and one Maceman. Attached are several sketches and drawing of the situation just after the last goblin had been slain.
Attached to the page are several faded drawings. You can still read most of the words written below every one of them.
"First two dead soldiers.
What was the second to last goblin.
Rakust standing victoriously over a dismembered and mutilated goblin corpse.
Two more dog corpses
Chimney stairwell." Footnote: "Only one goblin managed to set foot here, in the fortress.
14th Slate, 1057
New migrants have arrived! We lost some of our better dwarves in this first battle with those goblins. Now I hope they have the skills we need. That is, a miner. I have assigned Dodok Ingishimsal, the Potash maker, to mine. He didn't seem to care that much, we do. His potash making isn't worth much notice.
Later today the elves prepared for their departure, finally. I requested where they were going and handed them last years report to be delivered to the Queen as fast as possible. And one to be delivered to my sister. They wished me the best of luck as I left them to gather their wares.
19th Slate, 1057
The migrants have arrived at the fortress. A Fish Cleaner, two Bone Carvers, four Peasants, two Furnace Operators, a Woodworker, a Weaver, two Stoneworkers, a Farmer, a Miller, a Gem Setter, another Siege Engineer, and a Hunter. And of course some of them brought pets. I think that's all of them.
23rd Slate, 1057
The downside of having a large fortress is that some dwarves tend to make more time to chat. Even more so now that I have allowed them to gather at the statue garden again. I am also looking for proper candidates for the Noble positions we now have open. Which are every single one. And for some new full-time Military dwarves since our last one has been destroyed. They rest in piec-eh, peace now. A second miner might also be a good idea. Dear lords so much to do so little time to do it all.
28th Slate, 1057
After a rough start of the month, and a huge influx of new migrants I have come to a decision. I have picked Onul Igerlorbam, the Cheese Maker, to take up mining as his main job now. He seemed happy with that news knowing he would no longer have to haul all sorts of stuff from one place to another all the time. Second of all, I've decided to move the barracks, which were build outside, inside with a separate bedroom to keep the sparring dwarves from rolling over their sleeping fellows, that is, if they'll be able to understand that. Also I have decided to add a second story to the main wall, just in case. Any Markdwarves we will train shall be able to fire at our enemies from a greater distance then. This last idea caused many of the dwarves to start working again. That, or their break was finally over.
It also has stopped raining.
The Stoneworkers have almost finished doubling the floor level of the main wall. Soon they will start on the Fortifications on top for our Marksdwarves to fire from. On the subject of Military dwarves, I have told the Hunter to stop bringing corpses into our fortress and will deconstruct the Butchery and Tanners Workshop once the last few corpses have been processed. Instead I have assigned him to the military and told all the farmers with at least novice skill in Growing plants to work as full-time as they can on the farms. This has resulted in the blooming of the first Sweet Pods, which means Dwarven Rum! Wonderful. Was about time.
On the topic of Nobles I have thought little. I think it's crucial to get a proper count of all our stocks, and perhaps, after I have made this third Ballista Arrow I will take that as my job. I mean, there is no need for two Siege Engineers in this fortress yet, and thus I can work on my other latent abilities without troubles.
On a last note for today, I have restricted access to 'infinity''s rooms. This because of a rumor I heard yesterday from one of my fellow dwarves. It was rumored that I had send out 'infinity' on purpose so that he would get cornered by the goblins. Absurd! During this morning's short meeting I made it clear, every dwarf who sets a foot from this day on in 'infinity''s rooms while I am leading this fortress shall be executed.
15th Felsite, 1057
The downside of dabbling miners is that they work slow. Slow and inefficient. They can hold a pickaxe alright, like every other dwarf, but that's it. Not only do they work slow, they also fail to create any usable stone for our stoneworkers. They should be learning faster. Slow digging.
20th Felsite, 1057
The miners have started working on my official residence for the year. I asked them to dig out the main floor first so I can set up my office and start taking stock. It will be a tower, towering above the wall as it will be. This will take time, and perhaps I might not be able to get it done this year. But it will be started, and it will provide me with an office, dining room, bedroom and a tomb. That's the least I deserve, right? Miners have begun digging out my office.
1st Hematite, 1057 - Early Summer
It's summer. A toast! Here's hoping for the warmest summer in the history of Mamgozfath.
For those of you wondering why the start of this season makes me so happy and hopeful? Well, it's cold. And I don't like cold. No, I hate cold. It's too bloody cold here! And I fear for the winter, I fear for what it might bring, and what it will do with me. Either way, the miners have finished digging out the ground level of my residency and now the floors are being smoothed. Then a table and chair will be put in place and I shall start taking stock and giving out work orders, though not much work needs to be done.
Note: Tosid Ibruknomal complained about being relieved from military duty. She re-enlisted and seems happier.
8th Hematite, 1057
Dear predecessor,
I, Vabok 'Deyd' Aludoslan, wish to hereby inform you of a grand mistake on your part. Now I know you have passed away since your turn, but I feel that it is my dwarven duty to at least make an attempt at informing you of this.
When I ordered the bridge of Mamgozfath to be retracted for inspection, I noticed it was useless. My fellow dwarves, and I, were still able to get over the empty moat. This due to it not having been channeled below the bridge prior to its construction. After having discovered this I immediately requested the masons to tear down parts of the fortress wall and the bridge in question. I have since made sure that the miners have completely channeled the moat at this crucial spot and ordered a new, raisable, bridge to be build instead. This bridge will function as an extra safeguard to prevent enemies from intruding into our fortress, whilst still being large enough for merchants with wagons to get inside after we've moved the Trade Depot within the fortress walls.
Sincerely your successor,
Vabok 'Deyd' Aludoslan.
17 Hematite, 1057
Today we have chosen a new Expedition Leader. After much debate, many arguments and numerous voting, we, the members of The Mindful Lanterns, citizens of the Hamlet Mamgozfath, have chosen as our leader, Logem Kinkib, Peasant. Bugger, my attempts at getting someone slightly more skilled appointed as our first mayor, he will be just that when more migrants arrive, have fallen upon deaf ears. Either way, he might be the leader, I manage this fortress, I keep it from becoming chaotic, again. To explain, I have taken the task of Hamlet Manager and Treasurer upon myself and have been very busy updating the stockpiles. It is frightening to see how much stock we actually have, for example, look at our food supplies. We have 204 prepared meals, most of which are Plump Helmet Stew and Biscuits. PLUMP HELMET STEW AND BISCUITS! I hate it when cooks destroy our food. Yes, they prepare some fine meals once in a while, but they also make the Plump Helmet Spawn useless, resulting in less seeds to plant on the fields, which in turn leads to less food and ale. We also have a great supply of drinks, 404 drinks as of writing, most of which is ale gotten from brewing Pig Tails. I will allow the cook to use the ale and syrup in his meals. We also have an equal amount of seeds, most notably a bunch of Hide root seeds which we will be able to use to set up our clothing department. Red might be the cheapest colour, but it looks by far the best, which reminds me, I should request designs for a flag. I'm imagining a red flag with a black emblem of sorts.
On the bright side, it's actually getting pleasant outside, or I'm just getting used to the cold. I have moved into my new office which stands outside the fortress, a magnificent tower worthy of my brilliance! At least, I hope. It is far from done, and the miners have been busy finishing up the new, large barracks and will soon begin digging out the room next to it for sleeping squads. They have found a small copper vein and some native aluminum, but I have yet to hear of them successfully digging out some useful rocks out of them.
Much more I do not know of what has been going on in the fortress itself. I have sheltered myself and ordered a few dwarves to bring four barrels of Dwarven Rum, Swamp Whiskey, Sewer Brew and Gutter Cruor to my residency. Even though we only have the rum and whiskey it is good to plan in advance. I see this fortress more and more becoming a great city from where armies will march and slay every goblin they find. If only I was more skilled in managing the finer points of running a fortress as this, the craft and trade. If you're wondering where the Swamp Whiskey came from, it was in our Trade Depot. I had forbid that area during the goblin assault and forgot about the wares that were put there, I don't even remember how we obtained most of these goods. Did our trader trade our crafts for these things? Cloth? Gnomeblight? We have recovered it though and as I write dwarves are busy moving many of the crafts and goods inside the fortress.
The wall is also looking better each day, even though not much work is being done to it. The second story is slowly getting finished up but is already functional and looking great. I was thinking about building an archery range with Marksdwarf bedrooms above the stone stockpiles. With the archery range leading directly onto the wall. That way our Marksdwarves will be able to mobilize very quickly in case of an emergency. I have not finalized these plans as they are a bit too far in the future in my opinion, seeing as we only have one Marksdwarf at all times.
19th Hematite, 1057
Curses! I recieved notification that the Steel chain mail I had requested to be retrieved as soon as possible has been stolen. Most likely a sneaky Kobold. These are the troubles you run into when you try to retrieve various objects of interest. Once you start looking for them, Kobolds will try to steal them.
25th Hematite, 1057
More good omens have come! Alath has given birth to a foal, it's a boy. I have also started building a wall around the Trojan chimney. I am issuing this order for the future, we will be able to grow daylight plants up there without much trouble. Perhaps we could even build a glass roof on top of it. A new foal.
Not much has happened the last few weeks. Work on the outside farm wall continues as on the main wall. I am still updating the stockpiles and am about halfway through everything I think. Everyone is busy working wherever, be it building more bins to store all the items in, to gathering scattered armor and goods. Everything is nice and quiet. I like this, pleasant weather, no worries, all while drinking from a mug filled with home brewed Dwarven Rum.
11th Malachite, 1057
I shouldn't have written about the no worries. Another goblin ambush, this time one of the horses, I think the foal, walked into it, but dwarves are not far away hauling goods inside the fortress. There are seven of them, mostly axemen. All dwarves are ordered to get inside.
Those heartless bastards! They just attack that poor foal as if it's normal! It quickly ran off and they are pursuing her, Sodel Zuglaresis. Lets hope it will buy the dwarves outside enough time to get safely inside.
12th Malachite, 1057
Reports have arrived that there are several migrants on their way to the fortress. And with that Logem Kinkeb has become the first Mayor of Mamgozfath. A Fortress Guard also seems to be necessary. Darn you people! Don't you realize that we are under attack!? The foal just got struck down, one of our blacksmiths is being chased by a goblin, one of our jewelers is near that also trying to avoid being attacked AND then the miner withdraws from society. Curse this string of bad luck.
13th Malachite, 1057
The jeweler seems to have outsmarted the main goblin force and managed to sneak past them and has run towards the Trojan chimney where axe and marksdwarves are standing on guard. The Blacksmith seems to be able to outrun the sole goblin that is chasing him, but I suspect that the other goblins will soon team up with that one and pin him down in the already dead end he has run in. Unless he manages to trick those goblins similary as the jeweler did, I do not see him returning to the fortress alive. On the plus side, the new migrants have taken a pretty safe route and will arrive most likely without much trouble. Lastly, the miner has claimed the Mason workshop.
Oh shit! Mistem Melbilmezum has attacked the main force without notify. She has already managed to kill one of the goblins.
WHAT!? The 6, well 5 now, goblins that surrounded and fought Mistem are fleeing! They are really trying to get away. Even the lone goblin chasing the Blacksmith is running away. Poor Mistem has been hit in her right leg though and thus can't walk. Sending out the stationed troops in the hope they can do something.
15th Malachite, 1057
Stationed troops were too late and sadly couldn't kill any more of that scum. Their combined reports informed me that Mistem just kept on walking the moment she came outside. There she brutally attacked one of the goblins, cutting off its left leg, left arm and right hand. She then fought the remaining 5 goblins that now had surrounded her and were attacking. She delivered a damaging blow to one of the goblins head damaging it severely, this goblin fell unconscious during its escape. She seemed to enjoy the slaughter judging from the goblin corpse. Her right lower leg was broken in the fight. The woodcutter Edem Gerigmelbil went out to recover her the moment non-soldiers were allowed to go outside again.
Final report on the second ambush by the goblins of Obstusnang Slux, or "The Strapping Thief of Packing".
Losses were equal this time around. On our side we lost Sodel Zuglaresis, a tame Horse foal. Its master, Ral Thikutesmul, shall be supported when needed. One goblin was killed. Wounded were three goblins, a heavy concussion and a severed hand were reported by our soldiers. Mistem Melbilmezum sustained a few bruises and a broken leg. She has been rescued and given rest. Water and food will be supplied when she so wishes, during this period.
17th Malachite, 1057
The miner, Dodok Ingishimsal, has started the construction of something. Why does he have to be so secret about it? I asked several other dwarves, but he won't let anyone get near him and this obsession.
22nd Malachite, 1057
Dodok has finished his artifact! He made a Gneiss weapon rack called Kulalanil. It's encircled with bands of Rope reed and Tin and menaces with spikes of Gneiss. He put two images of a Copper flask on it, one in mountain goat bone and one in Tin. He has become a Legendary Miner. Wonderful. What looked to be a horrible month has become a great month instead. Peace, quiet and prosperity.
4th Galena, 1057 - Late Summer
Since our population has risen to 51 dwarves, and 15 animals, we have become a village. And a village is lead by a mayor. Thus we have started the construction of a mayor's residency. It's not something huge, but still very spacious and should be enough for now.
9th Galena, 1057
Mayor Logem Kinkib has issued an export mandate, we are to not trade our Lay pewter items. Good thing we have no Lay pewter items that I know off. Stock counts are coming along nicely, I have counted most things by now and am finishing everything off hopefully at the start of Autumn.
28th Galena, 1057
Not much news has happened. The wall around the to be outside farm is almost finished. As is the mayor's residency, two thrones need to be made though whilst the rock walls and floors are being smoothed. As for my residency, the miners have almost completely detached it from the mountain, making it a nice tower or sorts.
[[I'll crop and put the images up later - Garble.]]
The mayor's residency is finished. An office, a dining room and a bed. Though he still isn't happy. He wants more fancy stuff. We'll he'll get his fancy stuff, some day. For now
15th Limestone, 1057
A thief! The Miller Tulon Kadolmistem discovered him just outside the main wall. He quickly stopped his actions and knocked the kobold unconcious. I send out Tosid to finish it off.
16th Limestone, 1057
The village liaison has arrived along with the traders. However, because the new Trade Depot has not yet been constructed they informed me that they will move on. This does not worry me much since we are already capable of sustaining ourselves without trouble, but I do have assigned 'am_dragon' to design and construct a Trade Depot inside the walls. Perhaps they will change their mind before leaving.
Also, Tosid has taken out the kobold, somehow a few of its limbs and the majority of its blood lie close to the stairwell, whilst its body lies a huge distance away. She, Tosid Ibruknomal, returned to her post with a smirk.
17th Limestone, 1057
The weaponsmith Fikod Oddomiklist has caught another kobold thief. I've enlisted him to kill this kobold to the best of his abilities.
18th Limestone, 1057
A third thief has been spotted, this time by Rakust, the wood burner and one of the part time Axedwarves. Id Ozsitkogan, the Marksdwarf stationed on the wall shot immediately, Mistem and Tosid also jumped into action and ran towards the kobold, but Rakust managed to kill it pretty fast.
Mistem is thus back on her feet and shall be removed from military duty. Rakust will replace her at the gate. The weaponsmith did not manage to kill his target and has been relieved of military duty as of writing.
Only a few minutes after the previous alerts a fourth call is heard through the village. Another kobold thief. This time discovered by Feb Omusurvad, a Peasant, not far away from where Fikod had spotted one. They seem to come from the west. Feb and Fikod have been assigned to handle the job. Neither of them has any skills in combat, but together they could easily dispatch of the pest. I shall assign Feb Omusurvad to be a full time soldier.
The mayor also started his meeting with the village liaison, much laughter is heard from the area. Quite possibly picking this mayor was a good choice after all. He requested Cave Wheat seeds for those who prefer to drink Dwarven Beer, and less important, livestock. Cows, horses, donkeys and dogs. That way we can get meat without having to risk dwarves. And of course dogs we can train to become war dogs.
22nd Limestone, 1057
'am_dragon' finished building the new Trade Depot today. Word has been send out to the traders, they seem to be glad with this news and are coming to the fortress.
24th Limestone, 1057
The trade agreement has been made. Mebzuth Ular has requested spears, cheese, headwear and ashes as top priorty, then shields and bucklers, then plants, crowns, legwear and footwear and the lowest priority for fish and flasks. We will be payed very well if we trade these items with the caravan next year.
2nd Sandstone, 1057 - Mid Autumn
The merchants have arrived at our Trade Depot. There are many of them, four on my count, each with their own bodyguard. They seem to have brought a lot of interesting and useful goods for us to trade. Hopefully the mayor will be able to estimate the worth of our goods and trade fairly.
I doubt that though.
11th Sandstone, 1057
Our mayor has gotten around to start negotiations with the traders. Only a few more things need to be hauled to the Trade Depot, but dwarves have taken up those tasks and are getting them.
After several offers and a few counter offers from the merchants an agreement was made. The wooden toys, Gnomeblight, wooden shields and spear and a lot of arrows we got from the Elves in addition to a fraction of our supply of leather and silk goblin and kobold clothing, have been trade for all the meat, cloth and leather they had brought with them. A reasonable trade if you ask me, though I can't help but feel like we got ripped off some.
17th Sandstone, 1057
The merchants are packing. The mayor and I shook hands with them as we thanked them, and they thanked us, for the goods they brought us. Good luck wishes were exchanged as they left through the gate.
That means winter will be coming soon. In about one and a half months. The thought alone makes me shiver with cold. I have asked Tobul Onshenkel, our cook, to make the best meals he has ever made with the traded meat and fish, and some wine and ale.
25th Sandstone, 1057
I've had it! This disgusting miasma always lurking to try and get inside my home. It must be moved, it shall be moved. And it shall be outside in the sun, where, when those corpses rot, no miasma will be created. That shall solve all our current and future troubles with this form of silent death. The cook has made some great dishes with all the meat and fish.
28th Sandstone, 1057
I think it's already getting colder. Because of this I have decided to build vertical bars right behind our bridge as secondary defense layer. These will be hooked up to a second lever, west of the lever that raises and lowers the bridge. My home is pretty much done now. Perhaps I should add another story to it. But I have no idea what to put there. I already have an office, a dining room, though that still needs some hauling, my bedroom, and a tomb when my coffin is done. Descisions, descisions.
Stukos Zonidek, one of the weaponsmiths, has withdrawn from society. He refuses to talk to anyone and reason. Lets hope he is not planning to silently murder me in my sleep.
17th Timber, 1057
Stukos Zonidek has taken over the metalsmiths forge. I wonder what he's planning to do while in it.
18th Timber, 1057
Some Zinc bars have gone missing, though someone said he saw Stukos holding some tightly to his chest as he made his way back to the forge, where he began working. Is he going to make his weapon to murder me out of Zinc, and in plain sight?!
22th Timber, 1057
Oh praise be to ye gods who have protected me and watched over me since birth. Please beg your brother, the one amongst you capable of taking live, please beg him to not summon my soul, and please protect me from master Stukos Zonidek his thorn and sword for I fear his possible intentions."
Below this paragraph is the authors name, written in intricate letters of dried blood. The rest of the page is filled with dried drops of blood of various sizes. Next page.
"1st Moonstone, 1057 - Early Winter
Winter has come. It became noticeable in the last week of Timber, that ruthless cold. The ponds and little lakes have already frozen over. The small channel in the fortress that is filled with water is unfrozen, and will probably stay that way through the winter. It will be useful when somebody gets wounded.
Our mechanic has been working slowly on the Tin gate, too slowly. I have thus asked the miners and masons to mess some more with the moat, making it bigger and around the entire wall. My idea to fill it with spikes still seems like a good idea to me, however we won't be able to follow through on this plan.
A month or two in the past, perhaps three, I asked 'am_dragon' if he could design a Windmill. He told me then that it would take time to which I replied that there was no hurry. With winter coming I wish to have every dwarf working inside, instead of gathering goods outside. This will allow us to train some soldiers, for example. Food and drinks are abundant, and if we were to stop harvesting and brewing now we would easily survive to the next summer.
17th Moonstone, 1057
Curses! Another ambush by those goblins. This time six macemen and an Axe Lord. Udil Keskalcatten, a peasant, spotted them on his way home. All Dwarves are ordered inside. The Axe Lord instantly struck our brother down.
18th Moonstone, 1057
Three other dwarves were caught outside the main wall when the ambush was discovered. These were the siege engineer, a leatherworker and a blacksmith. The leatherworker and siege engineer managed to get within the walls, but the goblin Axe Lord was on their heels and managed to get in with the dwarves.
19th Moonstone, 1057
Smunstu Urarobsar, the goblin Axe Lord has killed both the siege engineer and leatherworker that managed to get home, but too late. The other goblins have been cut off from us though and will not be able to enter. I have locked myself, and Alath in my office and locked the door. Reg is inside the fortress. I have instructed my dwarves to lock the doors in the dividing wall and ordered the soldiers to stand behind them. I am capable of surviving here if we talk about food and drinks. Call it intuition or something, but I had asked the dwarves to move some prepared food to my small food stockpile. I have 37 rations of Dwarven wine roast and 16 mugs of Swamp Whiskey.
The axedwarves however think it's better to sleep, or eat, only Id Ozsitkogan, the marksdwarf, and Feb Tomusurvad, the recruit, are either in position, or getting in position. Id has already fired a few bolts at the goblins still outside the fortress.
The dwarves managed to pull the bridge lever as I mentioned earlier, they however are too scared to get near the Tin gate lever and pull it due to the goblins outside the fortress wall. These levers must thus be moved further away from the wall. If I do not manage to survive this, then I hope my successor will find his note. No news about Tosid Uristzokun, the blacksmith trapped outside. Id shouted that he had seen two goblins go in the direction Tosid went. I will assume that I will not see her alive again.
20th Moonstone, 1057
Id has been doing some target practice on the goblins. Alternating between raining death upon the four goblins outside the gates, and the Axe Lord inside. He managed to kill one of the goblins outside by firing a few salvos at the creature. Hitting the Axe Lord was harder though. He fired many bolts at the bastard, almost a dozen, but it kept dodging around. With his last steel bolt Id took careful aim at the freak and shot. And hit, in the head even. It dug deep, breaking the creatures head, nose and brain and damaging its left eye and neck. It promptly fell unconscious, out of breath.
All that armor, beaten by an average marksdwarf and a steel bolt. The sight isn't pretty, even from the top of my tower I can see the creature lying down on the ground, face up, blood gushing out of it's face obscuring its features. At least it's no longer on the Trade Depot, though all that blood might flow through the entire courtyard. We'll have a lot of cleaning to do.
He's gone. When he, Smunstu Urarobsar, came to he shrieked several times in agony, loudly, with diminishing strength. He tried to crawl away, but didn't get far before passing away.
21st Moonstone, 1057
I have unlocked my door and those dividing the courtyard in two. Live goes on relatively normal. Outside the wall I have spotted five goblins, they are all tightly huddled together just staring at our raised bridge. There's nothing they can do. Five goblins, I think this means that they killed Tosid. I have ordered the siege operator to fire the north-aimed Ballista at will. This will most likely scare those goblins shitless and perhaps make them flee. All of the axedwarves have slept at some point during this attack. Tosid Ibruknomal just woke up and goes to the gate where she will be stationed untill further notice.
Typical, though I don't blame them, many of the dwarves that are trying to do tasks in the courtyard are scared every time one of those goblins shrieks. This includes the siege operator. In the mean time Id has returned to his position on the wall and is once again firing at the goblins outside.
23rd Moonstone, 1057
Panic keeps breaking out every time those goblins shriek. I have ordered all dwarves to go back inside for this is not helping. Id has killed another goblin and there are now three outside the wall. Yes, three, I wonder where the fourth one went.
A report from the lower levels, the miners have struck Orpiment! Good to hear, also, our mayor has lifted his mandate, we can now export pewter again.
Id took another shot and mangled the weapon arm of one of the goblins. This was enough and the four surviving goblins are now running away. Axedwarves have been send out to deal with them.
It has also started snowing. Curses.
24th Moonstone, 1057
Mistem Melbilmezum has caught up with the slowest goblin. She has knocked it out of her path with three strong blows. It was dead before it hit the ground again. The next goblin is already unconcious and the last two seem to have taken the descision to run as fast as they can.
Good news! Rosid Uristzokun, the trapped blacksmith, managed to stay alive. She was able to outrun and outsmart the few pesky goblins that did indeed chase her. Wonderful news, this means we only lost three dwarves thus far.
Mistem has decided to chop this already unconcious goblin to pieces, the lobbed off both its hands and then planted her axe on its neck, taking off the head before pursuing the other goblins.
Final report on the third attack by the goblins of Obstusnang Slux, or "The Strapping Thief of Packing".
It's over. Mistem has returned and reported to me that she couldn't catch those last two goblins. She has been relieved from duty again. Losses were on both sides, but favored on our side. Three dwarves have died on our side against five goblins killed. No wounds were sustained by any of the surviving dwarves or goblins.
27th Moonstone, 1057
Impossible! Two days after we took care of the third goblin ambush, a fourth is discovered. Cerol Uristshar, Sodel Morsibrek's cat, walked into this ambush. This one of course also consists out of seven goblins with one commander. I am not worried that much about the loss of that cat, however, Fath Asiztun, our legendary metalcrafter who made Fath Asiztun, a Tin earrinn, is awefully close and can be easily cut off when she tries to get back to the fortress. All dwarves are ordered to get inside.
On the plus side of this fourth ambush, it is led by nobody else but goblin Ruler and Mace Lord Aslot Snodubsokrox. It will be hard to kill him with our small group of soldiers, but we shall do our best and will show those goblins once and for all who rules here! DWARVES I SAY!
The goblins quickly dealt with Cerol by surrounding and forcefully sending it flying through the air. Fath has fled west. Perhaps she'll survive this ambush also this way. Also, I cannot find Reg Roomtalks.
A fourth ambush. And that whilst the goblin Ruler himself is still here with his group. Reg Mosusmasos walked into this ambush. Poor Reg, I shall have her put in my tomb, if I can. What is particulary interesting about this ambush is that is consists of five creatures, four of which are goblin Lashers, and one human Axe Lord. If this means those humans want war, then they will get war! TO ARMS!
Fath Asiztun, our legendary metalcrafter, has been struck down. She got tired of running and had nonchalantly fallen asleep. The goblin hammerman that was chasing her took this opportunity and attacked, knocking her back and out and then finished the job. Reg Mosusmasos has also been struck down. I SHALL NOT FORGIVE YOU NGOKANG KUTSMOBXUKONG! You are as low as those goblins you lead, no lower, you most likely have enslaved those goblins and force them to fight for you, force them to kill innocent cats. May your gods take pity on you when I am done with you!
Menaceddrools, what a pathetic name only worthy of an pathetic scumbag of bones of a human.
12th Opal, 1057
The gate is closed, the bridge is raised, and nothing happens. The invading parties rest where they were when we sealed our wall. I told the soldiers they could stand down and spar a bit if they liked. They did, Feb Tomusurvad has now become a Wrestler.
17th Opal, 1057
Such stark contrast. Outside our fortress are invaders, willing to murder every last one of us, death, and inside we prosper and live and newborn live comes into existance. Edem Gerigmelbil, our woodcutter, wife of Atir Limulmatul, one of our planters. Together they have given birth to Mosus Fikodnish, a girl. She looks strong and healthy, she might grow up to become a good miner one day. We will have a toast as celebration of this new start.
We are The Mindful Lanterns! Citizens of The Oar of Idols, citizens the village of Mamgozfath! We came here, all searching for a better life, all searching for adventure, all searching for purpose in our dwarven lifes. What we found was chaos and death, war and blood, but we all kept hope. We kept hope high, and prayed to our gods that they would keep protecting us! And so they did. They have given us the strength to build our walls high, and our hearts strong. They blessed our farm which is overgrowing with Plump Helmets as we speak. And now, now the gods have given us their final blessing, life! They have given to us this dwarvenchild, to raise and to teach and to train, and to perhaps one day follow when we have all grown old with age. Let us make this toast, and let us mark this day, for from this day on we will prosper and overcome!
We are The Mindful Lanterns!
We are the citizens of The Oar of Idols!
We are the citizens of Mamgozfath!
Praised be the gods!
Huzzah! Huzzah! Huzzah!
20th Opal, 1057
Mayor Logem Kinkib has revealed to us why he put a ban on the export of Lay pewter earlier this year. He has just given a mandate for the construction of three Lay pewter items. I shall try to get this done in my term, but with a little over two months left and our enemies outside that will might be difficult. But first I will sleep.
2nd Obsidian, 1057 - Late Winter
The situation outside remains hostile, however all is peaceful inside our fortress wall. I have requested to building of two more copper doors to properly close the main hall. A path will be constructed underneath it just like to the farm. This way people can gather and party in the main hall without having to step aside for every person just passing through. I have also ordered the creation of a few hatch covers to seal of some of our stairwells. One of which being the stairwell to my roof and one to the outside farm. This will keep the warmth inside I hope. The downside of not being able to go outside is that we have run out of wood.
11th Obsidian, 1057
Wonderful! The head miner has struck Galena in the main hall passage. We can make the mandated Lay Pewter with that. Lets see, what else was needed for Lay Pewter. The furnace operator's instructions have been changed from melting enough copper bars for two new copper doors to making lead and Lay Pewter bars. And seeing as the mayor is only requesting Lay Pewter items we can perhaps ask Stukos Zonidek our legendary Weaponsmith to make a few masterful weapons.
22nd Obsidian, 1057
The end of my term is quickly drawing closer. The first Lay Pewter bar is being made as I am writing and I will check up on that work in a few minutes. The farm is very empty at the moment, the planters are letting it lie fallow till spring or so. We could fertilize it with potash, but there is no need for such activities. I prefer to know that the dwarves aren't spending most of their energy near the farms. A cold chill lingers there, coming from the small pond.
'am_dragon' is working hard, engraving the walls and floors of my office with various depictions, some are truly masterful and others not that much to my liking. They are well craftred, exceptionally well, just the depictions of death is something I do not prefer. I love it though, as I love my Mausoleum. I have given up hope on recovering Reg Mosusmasos's body before it has rotten beyond recognition. Alath shall then be put in that second coffin.
26th Obsidian, 1057
The furnace operator, Litast Kogankilrud, has made four Lay Pewter bars, wonderfull, now what to make of them. I was thinking about placing the objects in the mayor's dinner room. That way he can be content with that for a change. Picky guy. I think I'll write a work order for a cabinet, two chests and a sarcophagus. My successor will probably have to put them in place since my term is as good as done. Don't worry though, I shall stick around and write out and approve work orders as my successors please.
And so, once again the wheel turns, and the beginning is the end is the beginning. Let chapter the second commence!
I'm just astounded at how much story myself put into it.
"Help Wanted: Ruler for small band of goblins living, raiding in picturesque mountain setting. No experience necessary, must provide own weapons. Cash bonuses for successful sieges."
Guess the position must be vacant now...
I've finished only 4 months of the year, and I'm not going to get it done today, and therefore not for at least three more days until I have some free time to finish it. So, Andrew, the choice is yours: you can either a) Do my year over now using the last save, b) I provide you with the save in its current state, and you have the opportunity to finish my year and yours (wouldn't recommend it, too much work) or c) wait for three days until I get a chance to finish.
Entirely up to you to decide. I just can't get any more done today without my head asploding. Sorry.
Note: If this prediction doesn't come true, it's not because I am bad at predicting. It's because I purposefully posted this prediction to encourage players to not let the game die.
When I hit the 50 dwarf mark my laptop fan is working way too hard.
1) Magma is hot when you fall into it.
2) Bronze isn't as quality as iron (or steel), but it can be made rather sharp anyway.
3) There's a reason dwarves live underground behind huge stone doors. Fucking goblins.