Alexandria/The Great Alexandrian Debate

A Peaceful Visit

Roleplay from Vladimir Von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

“Sir, present your books please.” States the surly librarian as Vlad and Aila entered Kalmar. “What?” Says Vald, a bit confused. “It’s for the great library of Alexandria,” Aila says as she places her books down for review, “it is the foremost library in all the land.” The librarian’s eyes sparkle as he sees a copy of The Finer Points of Perdanian Pedantics, “Might we make a copy duchess? He asks almost pleading. “Yes.” Aila replies with a knowing, tight lipped smile. Handing back all of Vlad’s books, the Librarian’s thinly veiled contempt for Vlad's books plainly shows, “You may proceed.” Kalamar felt very different to Vlad, perhaps it was the smells of unknown seafood and hot springs, the volcano that shaped the landscape, or the great shadow of the Spire of the Bewitching Siren… Whatever it was, Vlad liked it, it made him feel more alive and excited. Taking a deep breath he asks, “Duchess Aila, where are we to begin?”

Vladimir Von Igelfeld (Knight of Poitiers)

Roleplay from Aila Storme

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She has been here before, sifted through rubble on the old coastline before, chased through the streets by a mob here before, but it is hard to think of those things now. Beside her Vladimir looked around with wild curiosity- while she wanted to have a bath, sit and rest but he wanted to run forward to see as much as he could. Dusting her sleeves peevishly Aila agrees with a small nod agrees to go forth and explore some of the strange things in the strange city. It had come together nicely after the disaster that reshaped the land, and only she could only see the evidence of the day the whole earth shook when she truly looked for it. "We should let the guards rest and find something to eat. Kalmar has very strange foods." She explains, offering her arm in a bossy demand for decorum as they walk together through a busy street. "And there is nothing better than a hot spring on a full belly" She expressed with a tone in an accent so snooty it is difficult to tell if she is joking. While finding her way back to a small establishment someone had brought her to long ago, she assures him "The Tidespeaker has been notified of our arrival, the guards are watching, and between you and I my scouts haven't seen Navaar or his retinue in the region at all today...So we have the evening to relax." Aila stands by expectantly waiting for her knight open the door to a small, but very nice looking tavern. They are greeted with a loud shout of welcoming voices, as two unknown travelers none of them know that they are in the presence of a Viceroy. Aila orders a man behind the counter without being asked, and tells him "Two of the fishy, plates" expecting him to know what she meant and taking a seat she was not offered. "And wine" she adds, though a woman is already behind her pouring. They had worked in the business of feeding nobles too long not to recognize a Duchess when they saw one.

Aila Storme (Chief of Justice of Eponllyn)

Roleplay from Vladimir von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Although he could tell the high quality of the fish, Vlad simply doesn't like it, not a bit. But doing his best to hide the fact, he washes it down with some fabulous wine and asks, "Duchess, we have yet to announce are arrival to the Tidemaster... ought we to get our scribes to send a letter?"

Vladimir von Igelfeld (Knight of Poitiers)

Roleplay from Aila Storme

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Message sent to all nobles in Kalmar (3 recipients) - 2021-11-20 18:51:26 Through dainty bites of strange cuisine, Aila is interrupted from her thoughts of summers long ago by Vlad's question. "Listen closer, knight. You are with a very famous and successful Lady you do not want to miss anything." Aila pauses to drink from her own wine "I already told you I wrote the Tide master. We just have to relax until he summons us."

Aila Storme (Chief of Justice of Eponllyn)

Roleplay from Cayden Navaar

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

An awaiting summons taunted him from his desk. Cayden was a man pulled in many directions. As strain hit Alexandria, he rarely had the time to act as leader of his faith with more and more duties assigned to him. As such, when he was told the ambassadors of Eponllyn had arrived, under the guise of preparation, he had the messenger wait. Clear thoughts were needed, and the distractions were endless it seemed. Not enough nobles. Not enough food. Build a statue. Casting aside his worries, Cayden meditated, imagining each problem burn away under a red flame until he was satisfied his mind was at ease. Now it was time to summon them. Dispatching the messenger, he made his way to their meeting place. The Tidemaster's throne room was far from modest, given his predecessors. The throne, an ornate chair, sat on a plush red carpet that. Stepping back, the red carpet was designed to be the tongue of a great, coral blue sea serpent that appeared mid strike around the ruler. Continuing the sea motif, murals of waves and artwork depicting the ocean lined the hall until the art made land fall, culminating in mountainous views of the great volcano. Cayden dressed, not as a priest, but as the ruler, in dark greys accented with a hint of blue and black, the Navaar family colors. Beside him on the throne were a pair of weapons in easy reach. Cayden's favored great axe rested on one side, and on the other was a black sword, the Cursed Nightblade of Oligarch, perhaps an omen of the coming days.

Cayden Navaar (Tidemaster of Kalmar)

Letter from Cayden Navaar

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Aila Storme, Chief of Justice of Eponllyn, Duchess of Northern Eponllyn, Margravine of Troyes, I welcome you to Alexandria, though I wish the circumstances were better. You and your knight are more than welcome in the palace at this time. From there, we can sample whatever delicacies you and yours are interested in. I'll have a menu of our specialties delivered when you arrive, and I'll plan a small feast around your choices. It has been too long since we last saw each other. I hope the travel wasn't too burdensome.

Cayden Navaar (Tidemaster of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Aila Storme

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

It had been a day since Aila and her knight companion had arrived in the City, some food, drinks, and exploring had left them refreshed on this second day in the City, and ready to meet the Ruler of Alexandria. When they arrived Aila realized this throne room was a place finally new to her, splashed with decadence that she could appreciate, enjoying the tapestries more than most. Her Prophet looked more like a King than a spiritual leader, giant and imposing. With a rack of weapons there to greet her despite the friendly letter he had sent her. But the Duchess knew she had changed too, had been dealing with intimidating men since she was nineteen years old, and hardly flinched at the sight that made her both sad, and inspired. Well practiced in manners and experienced in diplomacy her curtsey and greeting in an unchanged Perdanese accent are nothing short of flawless. Gems on a dozen pins securing braids into an elaborate hairstyle glitter in the lamplight as she and Vlad bow respectfully "Greetings Tidemaster, thank you for agreeing to meet with us so swiftly. This is Sir Vladimir Von Igelfeld, a Knight of Poiters and my protector for this journey." There is a glint in her eyes as she says this to Cayden, who had known her since twenty. She knew that the Tidemaster knew the opposite was true, that even though she dressed in the finest gowns and jewels she had fought in many battles over the years. She is protecting Vlad. "We have much to discuss."

Aila Storme (Chief of Justice of Eponllyn)

Roleplay from Vladimir Von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Perhaps it was the sea serpent or the not so gentle rebuke from the day before, regardless Vlad was not at ease when entering the throne room… The imposing nature of the Tidemaster and his great axe did little to settle his nerves. Nevertheless, when Aila introduced him, Vlad stepped forward and bowed, “Tidemaster of Alexandria, it is indeed an honour.” Vlad then stepped back, resolving for a time to follow his great uncle's favorite maxim, better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to open your mouth and to remove all doubt.

Vladimir Von Igelfeld (Knight of Poitiers)

Roleplay from Elrysend Rotizoi

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Sipping from a cup of her favorite tea, Elrysend stood at the window of the inn she was currently staying in, lost in thought. It took a few tries for her scout, Sora, to get her attention, clearing her throat a few times and making general noise until she was noticed. "Reporting to the Priestess, there are rumors that the Tidemaster is holding an important meeting." Elrysend hummed noncommittally. There were rumors of that everyday, helped along by false informants who spread mischief just for the fun of it, making her job difficult. "Several have claimed to see the Duchess Aila Storme and a strange knight wandering the city, and they were last seen headed towards the Tidemaster's throne room." She choked on her tea, coughing and sputtering as she placed the cup down on a nearby desk. "The Duchess? Here in Kalmar?" Whisking her cloak off the chair behind the desk, Elrysend wasted no time making her way towards the throne room. While she didn't necessarily need to present herself at the important meeting, she figured it was only polite, and it would give her a chance to have a much needed discussion with the Tidemaster afterwards. Anger was still simmering in her gut from his most recent choice, but she pushed it down, smiling kindly at the guards stationed before the doors. As her hand rose to knock upon them, Elrysend paused. The last time she had interacted with anyone from Eponllyn, it had not ended well, and she still remembered the pain of the shackles on her broken ankle. Eponllyn's dungeons were definitely not on her vacation list to visit ever again, that was for sure. But there was no reason for her to fear; at most this was a diplomatic mission, and she doubted they would try anything if the Tidemaster trusted them enough to allow them into the heart of Kalmar. With a knock, Elrysend stepped inside, dressed in the blue robes and dark cloak of a simple priestess. "Forgive my intrusion. May I join you all?"

Elrysend Rotizoi (Arbitrator of Alexandria)

Roleplay from Cayden Navaar

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Anyone who thought that the Tidemaster was intimidating, did not know Cayden Navaar. The man had a knack for a bit of showmanship, something that supposedly ran in his family, and, had he not wanted to waste church resources, the amusement of a gesture of flames was very much still on the table. However, beyond that was a kind heart that had been forced into his current role, and the control he presented was simply the best illusion he could muster for the moment. Had anyone assumed the fiery aura of a man who founded a faith and led a realm couldn't waver, they hadn't met the one force Cayden would relent to. As he opened his mouth to speak, the knock came, and small woman that swept inside caused a small change, probably only perceptible to the Duchess that had known the Tidemaster for so long. The air seemed to cool in the room, and his gaze softened slightly as he looked at the woman who entered. Was that a hint of relief? "It has been too long since I've seen that sharp glimmer one only sees in your eyes," he said affectionately towards Aila. Cayden made a gesture, towards Elrysend, not sparing another glance in her direction less he lose the composure he held after she had seemingly avoided him for weeks. "Chief of Justice, this is your Alexandrian counterpart, Arbitrator Elrysend Rotizoi, also a priestess of our faith." Looking over at Elrysend once more, again briefly, "And Arbitrator, might I introduce you to one of my oldest friends, the lovely lady who never seems to be without a duchy following her every word, Chief of Justice Aila Storme, and of course her knight Sir Vladimir." He kept his eyes on the Duchess. He did know Aila well, and her temper was something else he knew well. He wondered how she would take to the intrusion.

Cayden Navaar (Tidemaster of Alexandria)

Roleplay from Aila Storme

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Cayden melts for this newcomer slipping rudely into his Throne Room unannounced, and Aila resists a frown as she refuses to look at the other woman. Cayden has the sense to compliment her keen eyes, capable of freezing men in their tracks at a glance before suggesting they be introduced. Aila's arms are folded defensively as she turns to face Elrysend Rotizoi, a Priestess, A Judge and physically flinches as Cayden suggests that they are counterparts to each other. "Yes, Duchies and titles trail me like your free spirited council trails you. You will be happy to know I was appointed Viceroy by the very Queen who trusts me to be her voice today. I am afraid your honeyed words -no matter how true- will not make these negotiations easier on you." She speaks to Cayden but is observing Elrysend the entire time, with the same sharp hazel eyes Cayden had mentioned just before. They are lively and sharp, taking in every detail of the woman even as she goes on, FINALLY addressing the other woman directly "It is good to see ambition and confidence! I would be loathe to be seen in the throne room so ill attired; It takes a truly strong woman to present herself as you do. By putting that aside, I will ask that you join our group at the head table for the feast your Ruler has arranged, my Aide Sir Vladimir would benefit from the vast knowledge such a clearly.... bookish! Woman must have of this fine city. You two will enjoy each others company."

Aila Storme (Chief Justice of Eponllyn)

Roleplay from Vladimir Von Igelfeld

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A few tense moments pass after Aila’s words. In an attempt to break the spell, Vlad clears his throat, bows, smiles, and offers his arm to the new arrival, “I will be quite glad of your company Arbitrator. Let me escort you to the feast.” As they find their way to their places, Vlad leans in and whispers, “Don’t let her get to you, the duchess has some sharp corners… but she means well. Tell me, how are things here in Alexandria?”

Vladimir Von Igelfeld (Knight of Poitiers)

Roleplay from Elrysend Rotizoi

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

In the few moments of silence that passed after the Duchess's harsh words, dozens of thoughts fluttered through Elrysend's mind. It appeared that she had been ignored, insulted and complimented all at once by this woman with sharp eyes and an even sharper tongue. Though she was incredibly beautiful in her elegant clothes, Elrysend couldn't help but feel as though she was in the presence of a viper in human skin. Fortunately for her, the priestess was naturally of a cooler and softer disposition, so she reacted to the Duchess with ease. "Thank you, Duchess," She said with a slight bow of her head. "I pray you will treat us with the same amount of respect in which we treat you." She couldn't resist the little jibe, however, even as she turned to the knight with a gentle smile. It was entirely unbecoming of the Duchess to insult a member of a realm she was a current guest to, but power was something that often went to people's heads. It was one of the reasons Elrysend dressed as a simple priestess regardless of her rank; it was a reminder to all, including herself, that she would not fall to the same corruption some of Alexandria's former leaders had. Keeping her attention averted from Cayden, she took Sir Vladimir's arm, keeping step with him as she listened to him whisper. "Don't worry, I can handle some sharp corners," Elrysend whispered back with a small laugh. "Alexandria... has seen better times, but enough about us. Have you enjoyed our capital so far?"

Elrysend Rotizoi (Arbitrator of Alexandria)

Roleplay from Vladimir Von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

"Kalmar is indeed a wonderful city, and quite a bit friendlier than I expected, everyone I've met has been so welcoming. In fact, a few came up to me and on a lark declared they would love to have me as the lord!" Vlad says, blurting out a quick laugh.

Vladimir Von Igelfeld (Knight of Poitiers)

Event

Message sent to Everyone in Alexandria

Region Revolts message to all nobles of Alexandria - 2021-11-26 06:14:04 The peasants of Kalmar have risen up and kicked out the local nobility, declaring themselves a part of Eponllyn instead.

The Revolt of Kalmar

Roleplay from Vladimir Von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

...Some time later, during the feast... "...and so the debtor said, 'We must keep our agreement: it was settled between us that I was to be your debtor; I should be so no longer if I were to pay you.'" says Vlad chuckling at his own joke, and trying his best to ignore the fervent throat clearings of his nearby scribe. "Lord Vladimir!" the scribe says quietly but assertively, an act that Vlad simply can't ignore, following the scribe from the table. "Listen! I am in the middle of a diplomatic dinner! You simply cannot interrupt and I am not a lord, you're creating confusion. Now go!" Says Vlad sharply as he starts return to the table. "The peasants have revolted and named you the new lord of Kalmar!" yells the scribe a bit louder than intended. "What!? They can't do that!" "They did it anyway." "Hmm..." says Vlad, "I guess that throws a new wrinkle into this visit..."

Vladimir Von Igelfeld (Margrave of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Vladimir von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

...And so it begins Vlad sat still for a moments as the news descended on the room, everyone was whispering, some stormed out, some were starting to look angry, everyone forgot about the dinner. And as whispers started to turn to heated conversations, Vlad stood rapped his hand on the table and gathered the attention of the room. "Tidemaster, Arbitrator, and all nobility of Alexandria. I had hoped to discuss this over drinks, but alas the world contrives to challenge the best laid plans. It is no secret why we are here, Alexandria has fallen on hard times and it is our desire to see you join the free cities, to fight as one, and bring the hope and promise of the free cities to the volcanic Isles. And now... Decision time has been accelerated, the time is now. "You know better than any the difficult state of Kalmar, the people proclaim me their Lord today, but tomorrow the winds of change my strike their fancy and Kalmar will then be anothers. So my ask is simple, Kalmar needs you to take up estates in order to calm the populace, keep an eye on them so they don't continue down this trend of creating their own leaders. It was not in my plan to be the Lord of Kalmar, and it is not in my plan to keep the title. But the city needs leadership, it needs nobility, and I am asking every noble here to do their part of Kalmar and help restore her to the glory she deserves. "Tidemaster and Arbitrator, I ask you to both speak with the rest of Alexandria, extend them this offer and explain this new urgency. Together we can forge a glorious land, together our future can be one of legends."

Vladimir von Igelfeld (Margrave of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Cayden Navaar

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

The dinner had started well enough. As the news spread of the new Duke Vladimir, Cayden glanced to one of his guards who went out to confirm the news. "I suppose we cannot say the visit has not been exciting," Cayden mused as he turned his attention back to Aila. Having let the guests pick the menu, there was a large assortment of seafood and some rarer meats available to them, some using popular Perdanese recipes and some using local Alexandrian styles, heavy with spice reminiscent of the volcano looming near the city. Soon enough, one of the guards came in and whispered to Cayden, a wry smile stirring on his face. "Well, Duchess, it seems like things are never uneventful with you. Your grace is so well known, people proclaim status to even those beneath you. It is truly astonishing." Turning his focus towards the recently proclaimed Duke, Cayden chuckles. "So many realms vying for Alexandria's nobility, each with a promise of glory and legends, preserving the culture even." Cayden stood, towering at six and half feet tall, he looked down the table, catching Valdimir's eyes. "Tell me, new Duke. How would you sell me on joining Eponllyn were I to say none of that matters to me?" Did it truly not matter? Cayden's face certainly didn't give it away. "What does Eponllyn truly offer my people?"

Cayden Navaar (Tidemaster of Alexandria)

Roleplay from Vladimir von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

“What does Eponllyn truly offer my people?” This last question carried such a weight, and Vlad was unsure where to begin, but he knew that begin he must, and right now. “Tidemaster Cayden, there is much I could say of Eponllyn, and it’s all worth saying, but instead I shall tell you the story of a young nobleman from a long forgotten family, I will tell you my story. “I arrived as a true unknown, nothing but my education, my family's name, and some gold to call my own. My dream was to re-establish my family, to show my worth, and to do what I could for the glory of Eponllyn… and as is sometimes the case, I arrived in the middle of an argument. The Chief of Commerce had just abdicated after raising taxes and many were upset. I proposed some tax reforms aimed to help the knights Eponllyn, and by working closely with nobles both in and out of the government, my proposals became law. I then learned knights were not given a vote on the role of banker, I worked with the leaders to change that too. Then I asked to be an ambassador, a brazen thing for me to do, I see that now… but here I am traveling with and learning from the Duchess. “I am not telling you this to exult my accomplishments, for they are of little account. I’m telling you this to show the truth of Eponllyn. Eponllyn is a place where you are only limited by your vision and your drive. Where you are given the freedom to create change. Where ideas are judged based on their value not their source, and everyone is given opportunity. It is a place that is shaped by it’s people, a place of grand stories, and unique characters and cultures... In short, it is a place I am happy to call my home. “So what does Eponllyn truly offer your people? It offers them a future and a hope, it offers them an opportunity to pursue their dreams in the company of others who want to see those dreams achieved. That is what Eponllyn offers the people of Alexandria.” Stopping what was a longer speech than he intended, Vlad looks about at all the eyes turned to him, then looks back at the Tidemaster.

Vladimir von Igelfeld (Margrave of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Aila Storme

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Aila sits back in her seat with cup in hand worried for the first time in a very long time about one of her political trips as the Tidemaster turns his attention to a seventeen year-old recently made margrave. Is it hot in here? Aila wonders while uncharacteristically guzzling her wine. If they were about to be axed in two by Cayden she did not want to be sober for it. To her immense relief, Vladimir seemed to have done alright with his answer and she was left with an empty cup and a few seconds to regain her composure. “It is Freedom, Cayden” Aila finally interjects “And it is a future.” The look in her eyes is not one of pride or haughtiness, the wine had done it's job to bring the slightest glint of humanity into the Duchess’ expression. “Lorelai is a just Queen, she has given us a place where even young ones…” She glances at Vlad as she says it “Can feel proud. A seventeen year-old contributed to changing voting laws.” She throws her hands up in emphasis, but is also waggling a glass for a servant to refill- still not totally sure they were not going to end up axed. “Most realms on this continent have been the same for...fifty years. Eponllyn broke those chains, it is always changing. Improving. Advancing. Just imagine what we could do for the faith. You and I have done so much from afar” Kenneth is suspiciously not mentioned here “Side by side we could do much more.”

Aila Storme (Chief of Justice of Eponllyn)

The Margrave Resists

Roleplay from Vladimir von Igelfeld

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Vladimir sat by the fire in the Spire of the Bewitching Siren, holding the two letters and pondering. For the Tidemaster to address only Aila was quite the insult and Vlad felt it. "What is this!? does he believe me to be some trivial matter that can be safely ignored?" His manservant Chauncey was there, but he knew well enough that it was a rhetorical question. "And then for the duchess to continue this, assuming these decisions can be made without me... At least our queen has the sense needed." Vlad put the letters down and began to pace and think. When the local government appointed him he was shocked and confused, but since taking control he had to admit that he was good at being Margrave of Kalmar even if he didn't quite care for it. The lower nobles had chosen wisely. Kalmar started growing under his command, becoming a good place to live, and compared to the previous regime... well... people starved and the city is still dealing with all the rebel groups that formed under their command. Just handing it back... it felt like betraying these people that had put there trust in Vlad, and Vlad was starting to feel a true sense of belonging within Kalmar, even if he still disliked the fish. Running his hands through his hair and letting out a deep sigh, Vlad turns to Chauncey, "Surprising that I received no letters today." "My lord?" Chauncey askes, a bit confused. Vlad locks eyes with Chauncey, and slowly and deliberately says, "I said surprising that I did not get any letters today... Be on the lookout though I expect to receive two important letters tomorrow." "Yes my lord." replies Chauncey as realization dawns. Today is a not a sending day.

Vladimir von Igelfeld (Margrave of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Lorelai Chamberlain

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The banners of the Free Cities were not so vastly different to those of Alexandria, but as she saw them fluttering gently over the government buildings, the sea change was palpable. The Aldorman of the City had met her at the gates, his finest brocade embellished with the crest of the Sirensong. Inside, the commoners treated her with cheering reverence or sullen nonchalance, with little between the two. She reached across taking Lucius' hand, Aurelian sat before his father, a mini copy, straight backed and handsome. For all the flowers and cheer, there was a sense of unease to the city, a certain fractious undercurrent that seemed ready to cut through at any time. She was glad of Lucius presence, he seemed perfectly content with the undercurrent of chaos in the city. She liked order, straightforward simple lines... she rarely got it but it did not stop her wishing. The Aldormans men guided her progress to the place Vladamir currently called home, an imposing building, high walls and gates that looked more like barricades. She gave but the slightest nod to two of her men and the gates were opened ushering her into a courtyard. The banners of the realm, the city and of house Igelfeld were thick in the courtyard. Fat Bastard strode forward to the very centre, the Queen trusting her safety now to Vladamirs men as her own remained beyond the gate. Folding her hands before her she looked to the closed doors of the main house, and she waited.

Lorelai Chamberlain (Queen of Eponllyn)

Roleplay from Vladimir von Igelfeld

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"My lord," Chauncey says clearing his throat and interrupting Vlad's evening glass of wine. "the queen has arrived." "Splendid! The food is ready, and the chambermaids are preparing their rooms?" "Indeed my lord." "Very well then," Vlad says as he puts down his glass and finishes signing a letter. "let us entertain the queen then shall we?" Queen Lorelai, and any other nobility present, are brought to the main lower hall of the Spire of the Bewitching Siren, it is an haunting place, they say that while one is within these halls, a subtle song of a beautiful voice is always heard within one's head if you listen for it. But with an excessive number of candles, and warm tapestries in the lower hall, the bewitched nature of the place is subtle at best. While descending the staircase and walking toward the queen Vlad says to those assembled, "Greetings and welcome to Kalmar." He bows respectfully to the queen, "Queen Lorelai Chamberlain, this visit is indeed a great honor and it is a pleasure to see you again. Welcome. We have prepared some of the greatest delicacies Kalmar has to offer for your visit, shall we proceed to the dinning room? "

Vladimir von Igelfeld (Margrave of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Apollyon Daubney

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Cai watched the Eponllyn royal procession arrive at the palace from one of the balconies, he heard footsteps on the stonework behind him and heard a voice. "Apollyon?" Cai whirled around confused as he felt a strange feeling of dread and sorrow wash over him. "What did you just say?" Standing before him was Amelia, she looked concerned and walked over pacing a reassuring hand on the man's shoulder. "I said Good Morning oh Highborn one, are you ok?" He nodded and turned back too look out over the courtyard. He felt his vision cloud over red and for just a moment he was there in that burning city, blood dripping from his sword. The fear in his friends eyes, why did he do it? A cough brought him out of his thoughts, he sighed. It was all just a nightmare, he hadn't hurt anyone, it wasn't real." "Sorry, had a rough time getting to sleep last night, did you finish drawing up the schematics yet?" He spoke with a clam tone, trying to redirect the conversation away from what had just happened. Amelia clearly saw through his words but she didn't press him further. She shook her head. "No not yet, I'll probably get it done by the day after tomorrow. I will be spending today enjoying the fine dining and company of the other courtiers and minor nobles who have travelled to Kalmar. What about you? You're the only knight of Kalmar after all, shouldn't you be with the Margrave welcoming the Queen?" Cai leaned his against the railing of the balcony and shook his head. "First reason, I am just a simple knight , Second reason, I don't think I can dress or look nice enough to meet a Queen, Third reason, I'd just trip on my words and embarrass Vladimir, Fourth reason, I trust Margrave Vladimir, he doesn't need my help, that boy's got a good head on his shoulders." Amelia shrugged "Well, you're going to be missing out then...so...what are you doing today then?" Cai shrugged himself. "No clue, maybe go out to the ruins near the volcano and see if can't find any more black steel that the legion left when they all vanished. Did you hear any gossip? I'd be open to hearing what's been going on, maybe it might inspire me with something to do today." Amelia pursed her lips and thought for a moment, she nodded to Cai. "It's been relatively quite, I heard that Havard and his laborers got into a bar brawl with some thugs from the Sons of the Dragons down near the docks. Oh and I heard from the old bailiff's scribe that Ser Wolfram is looking for a man named Apollyon Daubeny." Again something about that name caused him to be overwhelmed with a sense of regret and sorrow. He blinked and nodded. "I see....sorry Mel I am just a bit tired today. I think I might just hang around the palace today, I think I will go play some music in the song hall." He walked off and he could tell Amelia was worried, he hoped she would just go and enjoy the festivities. He might join in later but he felt the need to be alone for a bit. He found his way to the song hall and sat down at the piano and warmed up, playing a simple song. Once he had warmed up he pulled out his own sheet music and set it down so he could read it. He had written this song a long time ago, he remembered it from a dream. It always reminded him of better times even if he didn't know why. As he played he hummed to himself before quietly singing, his baritone voice echoing throughout the hall. "He rode through the streets of the city, Down from his hill on high, O' er the winds and the steps and the cobble, He rode to a woman's side, For she was his secret treasure, She was his shame and his bliss, And a chain and a keep are nothing, Compared to a woman's kiss, For hands of gold are always cold, But a woman's hands are warm." He thought he heard footsteps and embarrassed by his singing he chose instead to hum to the tune of the song as he continued to play.

Apollyon Daubney (Knight of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Lorelai Chamberlain

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

She took a seat uneasily, his letters had been increasingly disrespectful and insubordinate to the point that she wished she had left Aurelian beyond his walls rather than him being in Vladimirs feast hall. Lucius sat by the boy, his own eyes appraising cutlery bringing a tense smile to her lips. Vladimir had worked hard to show the honor and values of Eponllyn as he had worked as the aide to the Viceroy, but his elevation, and perhaps his failure to secure support to be elevated in Kazakh now saw him writing letters with clenched fists. He seemed to be representing power he clearly felt he possessed in a situation that was systematically undoing all the work they had done to show Alexandria and the entire continent that their sense of fairness and honor was universal and not simply aimed toward the glory of the state. Now he seemed to be demanding to remain as Lord of a city they were illegally occupying while he decided whether or not he felt the chosen Lord of the legitimate state was appropriate to rule the city. She had sent him here with Aila to learn the craft of diplomacy, but events had gifted an ambitious man with enough rope that he might hang them all with his bold demands, it just seemed he couldn't see it. Already rival states were stirring the pots to march on Eponllyn to wrest the city and her nobles back to the banners of Alexandria. Even Eponllyns allies had sent messages that indicated their discomfort with the situation at hand. He had worked with Aila to create the environment that would bring Eponllyn kudos and the potential of growth and development, and was now plunging a dagger into the heart of that achievement. The room had been silent a while, courtiers and beaurocrats with seemingly far greater an understanding of the situation than the Lord of Kalmar watchful waiting for their Queen to speak. She fell into the courtesies that had served her well over her career: "Lord Kalmar, my thanks for your hospitality.... I see there are several settings here, are we expecting the Viceroy? Your knights? - The Tidemaster and his aides perhaps?" Her words had little warmth, her cold fury and discontent finding little purchase in pleasantries. She looked to Lucius and her son, allowing their presence to be her focus. Her husband locked eyes with her, his own tense smile communicating so much to her. "Much as I - appreciate - your hospitality, I came here to do what honor and duty say I must... that is to restore to Alexandria her capital." She turned fully to the young Margrave. "This is what must be, it must be restored - without sanction - without condition. The peasantry are our charges, they do not command us, just as they do not truly have the right to choose their Lord." She reached her hand to the Margrave. "Take my hand, Vladimir, you still have the opportunity to step back from your course of action with honor. Come with me as we hand the city back to the Tidemaster's rule. What must happen - must happen... I don't know what else to say to you."

Lorelai Chamberlain (Queen of Eponllyn)

Roleplay from Vladimir von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

Vladimir leans forward and speaks softly but firmly, "My Queen, Kalmar announced me as their margrave, without my bidding, without my request, and they did it because they needed help. The city was dying... I have since restored life this land, restored these people..." tears swell in the corners of Vlads eyes, "they are happy! They love me as their Margrave... and I love them." Vlad leans back, "With all of that, I have said I will return Kalmar to Alexandria, for the good of the realm... but I make one simple request to meet with the future Margrave of Kalmar..." Vlad pauses, biting his lip and southing down the anger welling inside. "I believe that as a noble I am honour bound to these people, they called for my help, I have given it, and I intend to look after their wellbeing... "I know that I am rambling, but your letters left me feeling that you believe me to be a power hungry young child, trying to clench tightly a toy that is not his... I assure you I am not, I do not wish to be Margrave or Duke of Kalmar, my wish is to hand the title to another... I do love the people here and would ask that lord if he has a place for me in Kalmar... I would not demand it, but I would ask, because I love this city and the people of it. And this I will say, I simply will not, no matter what, blindly abandon them, because they deserve better. I am honor bound to serve those who call for my help, and no threats of yours or of anyone else's will dissuade me from my responsibilities." Vlad shakes his head, "Again, my request is a simple one, there is no other motive. Let me meet with the future margrave... If need be I will travel to him. I simply do not understand why this simple request is met with such strong opposition. Why are you asking me to forsake my duty snd behave dishonourably?"

Vladimir von Igelfeld (Margrave of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Aila Storme

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

It is a peculiar thing for Lorelai and her Husband to see; Aila Storme entering a room without any announcement, not even the blare of one trumpet. Instead she is seen first in the crack of the large doors to the chamber, then fully in view as a man beside her pushes the heavy door open with much more ease. After days in the City Aila looked more like a native than not, draped in local styles she had found acceptable and dripping in new jewelry made of volcanic gemstones. The sound of a hard heel on an expensive boot treading across the floor is her only announcement today, with her arms brimming with important looking documents she can only bow half as deeply to her Queen as her Perdanese tutors would have approved of. She nods curtly to Vladimir before setting her pile of papers down and breathing the words “Well this is certainly feeling awkward. I’ll get some drinks.” With no invitation Aila wanders to a sideboard, selecting some wine to bring to the table, which she hands to Wolfram to open for her while she gathers their cups. No comments about lazy servants, no quips about how he did not give the queen even a sip to drink, not even a backhanded compliment. “This is Sir Wolfram, my agent.” She introduced the rugged man beside her finally, handing him his cup third after the Queen and her husband, before Vladimir and taking the last herself. “He’s come to observe the proceedings as well. What are we working on this evening?” Something is amiss, as the usually irascible Duchess takes her seat across from the Queen with a good-natured smile present on her pretty face.

Aila Storme (Chief of Justice of Eponllyn)

Roleplay from Elrysend Rotizoi

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

The Spire of the Bewitching Siren was where the Arbitrator found herself, having followed the Eponllyn procession after receiving word from her scouts that the Queen herself had arrived. She had then been given letters from the High King of Caligus, but had not time to respond before rushing to follow the crowd marching past the inn she was currently staying in. The colors of the new Margrave were already flying from the towers, a painful reminder she felt deep within her soul. Anger simmered within her gut, an emotion she had rarely felt, but for some reason had felt more in the past few weeks than ever before. Her gaze caught on the beautiful woman descending her horse inside the high gates, a man close by her side with a young boy. The Queen, she presumed, and her assumption was confirmed as the new Margrave appeared, escorting them within the old building. Elrysend waited a moment before following after them, stretching a hand into one of the inner pockets of her dark blue cloak. The soft texture of a petal grazed her fingertips, and a sense of longing filled her. When was it that the threads holding Alexandria together had begun to snap? She missed the times when the stress of a fallen realm did not haunt her nightmares. With a deep breath, she stepped inside the gates, steeling her nerves as she entered the den of pretty lies and twisted words. ~ After getting lost a few times, one of which included passing by a man playing the piano and singing in a very handsome voice, Elrysend finally found herself in the dining hall. As she stepped inside, she heard the new Margrave speaking at one of the long tables, discussing with the Queen as the Duchess made her way over. The man and young boy were already seated, while the Duchess had a new person beside her, one the Arbitrator didn't recognize. "The city was dying..." Margrave Vladimir's words echoed in her ears as she paused, listening to the duration of his speech with a rising fury. When he finally stopped, and the Duchess sat down, the usually gentle Priestess finally snapped. "HOW DARE YOU!" Her voice cracked from the shouting; this was the first time in years she had raised her voice. "HOW DARE YOU!" Burning with adrenaline, fueled by red hot anger, Elrysend marched over to the new Margrave, pointing a shaking finger at him. "How dare you say such things! You claim the people love you? That you have restored this land and these people? That they deserve better? You know NOTHING!" Cheeks flushed, the Priestess stepped back, her eyes locked on the new Margrave in the deathly silent hall. "The founders of Alexandria worked for this land, bled for this land, and fought for it's people. For years, the nobles guided the land and the people through countless wars and droughts, famine and storms, even if the liine of Tidemasters was not the best. We sacrificed everything for this realm! Do you know what it is like to know a mother grieve for her fallen son, to laugh with the blacksmiths, to sweat with the farmers?" Elrysend clutched a hand to her chest, tears pouring down her face. "As an Elder Priestess of the Blue Flame, I see the souls of the dead in wisps you cannot, I hear them cry, I hear them mourn for the lives they have lost. Do you know what it is like to see the spirits of people you once knew, spirits of the dead of your own realm, wandering aimlessly and wailing, tied to the land from regrets and curses? Do you know what it is like to see warriors cut down their bodies on the battlefield once more when they rise as the undead?" She paused for a moment, turning to cough lightly into her sleeve. Blood stained the dark fabric; it seemed her intense emotions had caused her sickness to act up again. "Vladimir Von Igelfield, you have no right to demand to see whom the Tidemaster of Alexandria deems fit to take your place. Here, the people of Alexandria are not your toys, and you are no one but a spoiled young man corrupted by the power he was mistakenly given by angry peasants. When we first met, I had thought you were of a better disposition, which is part of the reason I was the first to suggest to my realm mates that we join with Eponllyn. But if this is how you of Eponllyn truly act when they see an opportunity for power, then I was incredibly wrong." With a slight bow to the Queen, and a nod to the Duchess, Elrysend spun on her heel, leaving the dining hall. The Alexandrian servants who had been busy bustling around before her arrival glanced at each other, expressions of agreement mirrored upon their faces. But before they could get called out for slacking off, they resumed their work; silent, invisible eavesdroppers in the dining hall.

Elrysend Rotizoi (Arbitrator of Alexandria)

Roleplay from Wolfram Goldwater

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

"HOW DARE YOU!" The sound of shattering glass accompanied the Arbitrator's entry, as Wolfram immediately dropped a cup to half-draw his concealed dagger, jumping between the Arbitrator and his liege, before understanding the situation and calming down again.

Wolfram Goldwater (Knight of Troyes)

Roleplay from Vladimir von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

“Arbitrator,” Vlad says, fixing his gaze firmly on Elrysend, “I mean no disrespect to the past, to the great battles, or to the blood spilled. I also mean no disrespect to you or to your friends. But just because you feel my words to be untrue does not make them so. “When I arrived, the people were depressed, loyalty to Alexandria was gone, and Kalmar was a hotbed of rebellion. In fact, Kalmar fell from your hands and you are lucky it fell to me.” As Vlad speaks he does not for a moment shift his eyes from Elrysend. “The people are happier, they are loyal, we are routing out the rebel forces, and yes, they love me as their margrave. These are the facts. They asked me for help and I am doing right by them. “Now I have sacrificed day after day to help Kalmar. I have invested in Kalmar. And I do not ask for much… I ask only to meet my replacement. I ask this because I have a duty to these people who asked for my help! So I repeat my question that I asked My queen, why are you asking me to forsake my duty and behave dishonourably?" Vlad takes the wine the duchess had placed there. “Welcome Duchess, I am glad you are here. Sorry for not addressing your question straight away, but I suppose my words have provided a good synopsis.”

Vladimir von Igelfeld (Margrave of Kalmar)

Roleplay from Vladimir von Igelfeld

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

-Interlude- Vlad doesn’t know what to do, he has compromised and offered suggestions on how to solve this impasse. He does care for the people of Kalmar, he wants to see this renaissance of the city continue, he also wants a way out. He felt he had offered that by making a simple request, but apparently it was not so simple… and now he is stuck, these nobles keep yelling at him, forcing him to dig his heels deeper in, because to simply relent would do nothing for the people of Kalmar or for his honour… and now what he has worked for has been destroyed, and his queen hates him. In all of this, if only someone would give him a way to uphold his honour and his duty to the people of Kalmar, and vacate the lordship. If he cannot simply meet the future margrave, there must be another way... It is his honour, his reputation, and the people of Kalmar that he cares about. Nothing else...

Vladimir von Igelfeld (Margrave of Kalmar)

The Unofficial Summit of Rulers

Roleplay from Milo de Santis

Message sent to Everyone in Kalmar

The volcanic mountains had been in view on the far horizon all day, but still, upon cresting the final ridge, the first sight of Kalmar took Earl Milo de Santis' breath away. The city was massive, nearly as large as Ibladesh, which he had seen all those months ago. But whereas Ibladesh lay on the coast of the Great Southern Lake, beyond Kalmar was the tallest mountain Milo had ever seen. It jutted upward like a deadly black dagger, tipped in molten red. And there, nestled at its base, lay the great city. Even from here, two or more miles away, he could easily make out the Great Library of Alexandria and the Spire of the Bewitching Siren, towering over the city but dwarfed by the great mountain in turn. Milo looked around, and saw his men gawking as well. Meanwhile, High King Pasquale had kicked his horse forward, riding determinedly towards the city. Milo caught the eye of Captain Odamar and nodded towards the men. Odamar looked around, scowled, and snapped at them, "Look sharp and stop staring! We're here to guard the King, not sight-see!" With that, the retinue began moving again - thirty weary men on horseback, but nonetheless sitting upright and proud, with the Griffon Banner of Caligus snapping in the wind. Milo thought back upon their journey, now that they were so close to their desperation. The news of chaos in Alexandria had shaken every Royal Court on the Continent. High King Pasquale immediately ordered a diplomatic mission to Kalmar, and called for volunteers. Milo had been honored when the High King had selected him as his retinue for the mission; as a sign of good faith, King Pasquale had chosen to leave the Royal Guard behind in Domus, but it was unwise for a Ruler to travel unguarded across East Continent. North they had ridden, through the mountain passes of Scio, into the verdant forests of Nascot. There, the High King had undertaken the holy vows of the Aspects of the Flame in a small temple nestled in an idyllic hot-spring glen. Since then, King Pasquale had been almost incessantly poring over the scrolls the Priests of the Flame had given him. At night, when they shared dinner in his tent, the High King would tell Milo what he had learned that day - of Khelta, the Goddess of Scales, how she balanced the world between light and dark, and how her role as Gatekeeper of the Horizon divided our would so. How the Golden Dawn, of which the King has always been a loyal and fervent member, was perhaps an aspect of Khelta herself, acting to bring balance to the world. How this mission itself was an effort from Khelta to balance East Continent, for as Alexandria faded, Caligus might grow. By day they rode and by night they talked, through the "town" of Bescanon (though it was larger than either city of Caligus), across the Bescan River into Troyes (where his men were alert to the point of anxiety, for it was their first time in a non-allied realm), to Poitiers (the site of many famed battles, which Milo had read about on the way north), and into Lundel, where they had found their first unwelcome surprise. After arriving in Lundel, news reached them that another region had broken off from Alexandria. Not only that, but the peasants complained of monsters stalking the land, hardly a day's ride from Kalmar or southern Alexandria! What was happening here? Lundel had been a part of Alexandria not too long ago, and now monsters stalked the land? The chaos of the transition of Kalmar was infecting the countryside. Milo took his men out hunting, and killed perhaps half the beasts before calling off the hunt; even killing just 3 of the monsters had cost 3 of his own men and left 7 wounded. The diplomatic mission moved on, unsettled with these strange new tidings. Now, as they rode under the gates of Kalmar itself, Milo felt his spirits lift. They had made it - and if there was anyone who could convince the Alexandrians that Caligus was the best realm for them, it was High King Pasquale. Yes, perhaps everything would be alright. They rode through bazaars and past inns, ever towards the great Spire. Soon enough they arrived, and as the guards approach the Caligan retinue, Milo raised a hand and called out. "Hail from Caligus! Hail from Pasquale of House Contefigardo, the High King! Hail from the Griffin of the South! We have come to treat with Margrave von Igelfeld, and all those of Old Noble Alexandria!" The guards hailed in return, and permitted them into the courtyard. Milo again nodded to Captain Odamar to remain with the men, while he himself trailed behind the King. Milo had done his part - the King was safely in the palace. But now, they were in the arena of politics, and it was the High King's turn to lead the way. Milo silently prayed to the Trinity that it was the right way.

Milo de Santis (Earl of Supra)