Arnickles Renodin/Maura/OS august
Roleplay from Ferdinand Greybrook (2 days, 20 hours ago)
Message sent to everyone in the region Rines (20 recipients) The Basilica
It was only a few hours before sunset before Ferdinand returned from training to private study. He did not believe he would be gone for as long as he did. Nevertheless, the Templar's Vanguard are growing stronger as a unit with each passing day. With their higher levels of training, Ferdinand himself needed to be sharper than before to get the very best of his soldiers. As a pastime while the Sun was in the middle of the sky, Ferdinand maintained his military wear after training as if he was on campaign, a good habit that he had picked up since joining the Enlightenment.
Despite his best efforts, Ferdinand was not the most patient man and is passionate about his strong beliefs. Hence, awaiting new orders from the Marshal was somewhat agonizing. Hence, time was either spent on self improvement or military drills with the Vanguard. He did not want to neglect his duty for petty reasons such as fashion. Contradictory, perhaps most to Ferdinand himself, the Templar maintained a sharp black beard, as typical of Greybrook's, while assuring that his embolden equipment of his family's crest was constantly maintained.
Opening the letter that a scribe gave him upon his arrival to his resting quarters in the city, he immediately tucked it inside his cloak and sent off towards the barracks. With the Captain being paid this morning, Seviana was more tolerable to deal with and acted with more intuition - while continuing high discipline when he was not present. Striding up to the Captain and the 44 other soldiers of the unit, whom were taking a break for the evening sun, Ferdinand ordered:
"We have direct orders to stand guard by the Basilica! We move out in one minute!"
Ferdinand was met with a large grown by his fellow soldiers. Despite their only momentary respite from training that morning, they are hard workers whom do not hold a grudge. Travelling to the other side of the city, Ferdinand had gave discrete orders to stand guard by the Basilica and to stay alert. Unfortunately for the Vanguard, they are not very subtle in their approach, considering that they march in formation with precise paces. Hence, even with Rines' large proportion of militia, the relatively lighter armour infantry caused a bit of a stir.
With the Templar's Vanguard stationed outside the Basilica, Ferdinand ascended the steps and opened the large decorative door into what he presumed to be the main reception hall.
–
Roleplay from Ulrika (2 days, 15 hours ago)
Message sent to everyone in the region Rines (18 recipients) Ulrika tapped the pouch that she had hung around her neck and nodded 'Aye m'lady, they are here'
They rounded the corner and the familiar sight of the Grand Basilica came into view
–
Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (2 days, 14 hours ago)
message to all nobles of Obia'Syela (OOC: I want to get this RP out before I forget some of the details I have swimming in my brain.. so please ignore the fact that technically speaking, Vahanian is 1hr outside Rines..)
Purging The Heretic's Stain. Pt. 1
Vahanian and his men thundered through the city streets, it was late in the evening so there weren't many people out and about. His face a mask of stone, fixed with a stare of determination and sheer will. His horse rounded the final corner and he slowed to a trot before arriving at his destination. The estate of Adolphus the Heretic. The estate had been quarantined and sealed off by the city guard. Vahanian dismounted, his boot splashing in a puddle as he stepped down off his horse. He walked over to the captain of the city guard and nodded. The man saluted and said "We sealed off the premises as soon as we received your raven mi'lord. Nobody has gone in or out since then, you have my oath on that."
Vahanian nodded, turned to Baldwin and said "Ready the men." Baldwin turned and shouted out some commands to Vahanian's personal unit of soldiers. Vahanian turned back to the captain of the guard and said "I need 10 of your best soldiers to supplement my own forces, the rest are to pull back and seal off a 3 block perimeter around this estate. Summon the fire volunteers to ensure the blaze doesn't spread. " The captain nodded and hurried off to do as he was bade. Moments later Vahanian stood at the head of his own soldiers and 10 of the city guard.
He called out in his best parade ground voice, it helped that it was quiet at night and he stood in the middle of the stone courtyard so his voice resonated throughout the estate.
"Inhabitants of the Heretics Estate! You are hear by commanded to lay down any arms you may wield and surrender yourselves to me now. Any who do so will be treated fairly, fed a proper meal, and turned over to the inquisition for questioning and clearance. If you do not. You will be caught. And you will be executed as a traitor to the sacred realm."
Immediately several stable hands, gardeners, and most of the kitchen staff rushed from various locations around the estate out into the open, their arms raised. Vahanian instructed the city guard to take them and hold them outside the courtyard, they were to record their names and occupations before escorting them to the inquisition. Vahanian waited for several more minutes, and little by little several more staff members and courtiers that had been in Adolphus's service surrendered themselves. Based on how many people had surrendered and the information his spies had provided him, there were about 30 people left within the estate. Some of them armed with real weapons, the others mostly had what they could find.
Vahanian turned to Baldwin and said "Get all the animals out of the stables and have them taken to the Templar Nexus for safekeeping." Baldwin grabbed several guards and did just that, after all the animals had been retrieved Vahanian looked at the stables and commanded "Burn it." Three fire arrows were fired at the thatch roof and several torches thrown in various locations around the stable, seconds later the building was engulfed in flames.
Purging The Heretics Stain. Pt. 2 (WARNING: Semi-Graphic Content follows. Reader discretion may be advised)
Vahanian stood in front of the stable as it burned, the column of smoke marked his location in the city like a lighthouse guides ships to shore. He drew his sword and turned around to face his men.
"Kill any who resist or threaten you, if anyone surrenders escort them out of the estate and leave them in the custody of the city guards. Nobody travels alone. If you find dark magic, mark it and move on, we'll handle that after the heretics are dead. We're not hear to loot, we're hear to purge. Do this right and we all get to go home in one piece." His men drew their weapons and he nodded at Baldwin, who shouted a command and several men ran forward and kicked in the front door of the estate's main manor.
Vahanian and his men poured into the manor and went room to room, executing anyone who stood in their way. Vahanian himself kicked in the door to a side bedroom, several men stood there makeshift weapons drawn. He stepped in and one man rushed forward, Vahanian flicked his wrist and disarmed the man before decapitating him with another stroke of his sword, the blood sprayed from the man's neck and splattered on his cloak and tunic. Vahanian quickly and effortlessly dispatched the remaining men in the room before moving onto the next. He eventually arrived at a door, a door that could only lead to Adolphus's study.
Vahanian kicked it in and entered, before Baldwin could accompany him in three men, all in their early 20's rushed at Vahanian, from their builds and the hammers they were wielding he guessed they were blacksmiths. They attacked as a unit - smart. Vahanian stepped back and began fending off the three attackers simultaneously, Baldwin rushed into the room and froze for a moment, it was masterful to watch Vahanian wield a blade. He almost admired the feat before the realization that his lord was being attacked by 3 men hit him like a tsunami's wave. Just as he was about to rush forward and jump to his lord's aide, Vahanian severed the hand of one of the men, who cried out in excruciating pain.
The man grabbed his stump as the blood poured from his arm, it caused the two other men to pause, which meant immediate death for one. Vahanian stabbed his sword through one's throat which caused him to drop in a gurgle of blood, the other recovered quickly and roared in rage and doubled his attack. Vahanian stepped back and riposted parrying and blocking each attack his opponent threw at him, Baldwin moved forward before Vahanian called out "Do not interfere!" his opponent didn't falter, didn't even flinch - a credit to his determination. Baldwin just stood there and watched as Vahanian dueled this man, who was obviously skilled in combat, but Vahanian was better. It struck Baldwin as odd the way Vahanian moved around the room right up until the moment that Vahanian's opponent slipped on the pool of his brother's blood. Before the man hit the ground, Vahanian had decapitated him.
The man's head hit the floor with an audible thud. The smell of urine and feces permiated the air as the two dead man had no doubt soiled themselves after death, and the third man who was still bleeding on the floor looked up at Vahanian with rage and desperation in his eyes "Defiler! Murderer! Traitor!" The man spat at Vahanian, spittle forming on his chin, mixed with blood, tears, and mucus. Vahanian walked around behind him and grabbed a fistful of his hair, pulled his head back and whispered "I want you to know, that you died for nothing. Nobody will remember you. Nobody will care. Your brothers died as you will. Like sheep to the slaughter." With that Vahanian slid his blade through the man's back and out his chest. He withdrew it and then decapitated him for good measure.
Vahanian cleaned his blade on one of the dead man's tunics, before returning to the main hall, by the look and sound of things his men were wrapping up their slaughter. "Bring the oil" He commanded, several men walked in with jars of oil, the rest filed out of the main manor and into the courtyard. After the oil had been spread throughout the manor Vahanian commanded, "Bar the doors and burn it to the ground."
He repeated this process with every building on the estate's property. After he had finished, he barred the gates to the estate and posted a notice with a knife through it. The notice read:
"By Order of the Oracle and the Steward of Rines, this premises is branded as the home of a heretic. Until a cleansing ritual can be performed any who are found within the premise will be treated as heretics, the punishment for which is death.
Signed - Vahanian Blint, Grand Templar of the Sacred Realm
–
Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin (2 days, 13 hours ago)
Message sent to everyone in the region Rines (18 recipients) Arriving at Basilica with the two companions Maura immediately frowned at Templar's Vanguard stationed conspicuously; as if ready for battle. Curious stares and whispered questions from the gathered crowd couldn't be more obvious. The Inquisitor approached the crowd and said: "The templars gathered here await consecration of their weapons from priests in the Basilica, so they would better rid our holy lands of the undead scourge! You ought to be thankful to your indentured protectors!"
The whispers intensified but the mood slowly changed from fearful to cheerful and soon crowd started to offer the warriors food and drink. Maura walked past the gathered soldiers, tapping one of them on the back, and entered the Basilica, motioning for her companions to follow.
The Holy Basilica of Rines, house of the Grand Council, next to Grand Temple one of the two main offices of the Oracle; estate under the care of Antonia Fitz-Roberts - it was the very epitome of magnificence, splendor and architectural prowess. The vestibule alone looked as if it was a throne room of some ancient empire, and with a magnificent archway it led to a lofty hallway, that in turn ended with three gateways. On one end there was a passsage to the residential part of the Basilica, where surely Dame Antonia had her chambers, on the other end one could find clerical and administrative offices, in the middle however there was a short flight of stairs, leading to a set of highly decorated doors. Behind those doors one could find even more overwhelming surroundings. The main reception hall, or simply main hall could've been the biggest room on the ground level of Basilica, it could've fit another building inside it, high rib vault was supported by marble columns wider than centuries old oaks. Maura rarely had occasion to visit Basilica but always thought that the hall is furnished depending on the occasion, most usually however it was simply an imposing amount of empty space surrounded with an ellipse of benches and scupltures, crowned with a decorative double-spiral of stairs that led to another set of halls and chambers placed on top of this one. Few are allowed up the stairs and most likely imagine that they lead all the way up to the Solarium. Maura never learnt if that is indeed the case.
Locating Sir Ferdinand was a bit time consuming and before she could greet him, she herself was found by a couple of servants instructed to show Ulrika and Apostate to their chambers, she considered for a while and then nodded in confirmation and then caught the arm of one of the servants with an iron grip and uttered in lowered tone: "I am most certain that Dame Antonia got used to having guests of both Royal and Heraldic bidding in her house, however it would not sit well with me if she weren't informed who occupies the chambers in her own estate. Inform her that my agents are extension of my own person and as such I hope they will be provided the same hospitality and security I would."
Watching them depart she slowly approached the Templar and said - "Sir Ferdinand... walk with me" - and leading him through the hall she continued in half-whisper:
"Grand Templar speaks well of you. He does not speak a lot of you, but the little he does speak is spoken... well..." - they walked a longer while until the silence grew uncomfortable - "... and that speaks volumes, Sir Knight" - she finished her sentence as if long minutes haven't passed inbetween.
"Of course I will not tell you why you're here, that is not my thing to tell. I can't even say with certainty that you will be told at all. I do can say that you may be needed. One must always prepare for everything and you, my dear Templar friend, are a part of that preparation..." - she scratched her head - "about that, have you had time to study the Lexicon recently?"
They stopped walking in front of an incospicuous looking door, Maura said - "Anyhow, I said enough." - as she knocked heavily on the door. A young woman in priestly garments opened, she didn't need to speak, her stare was articulate enough and Maura answered the question in young priestess' eyes: "The Inquisitor for the Oracle."
The door were shut, Maura sat at the bench by the door and looked at Ferdinand, saying:
"Now we wait."
–
Roleplay from Ferdinand Greybrook (2 days, 4 hours ago)
Message sent to everyone in the region Rines (14 recipients) The Quiet
Awaiting the arrival of the Marshal forced Ferdinand into a awkward nervousness he had not felt for some time. The clear grandeur of the Basilica was simply magnificent. Having never truly visiting the monuments in Rines, Ferdinand took the time to study his surroundings. The lofty hallways, highly decorated doors and the marble columns were notable pieces of what could be accomplished architecturally. There was always a few administrative clerks or various religious figures briskly walking through the hallways. However, one particular statue of the most dazzling white stone caught his eye before the Marshal found him.
The Marshal oozed a presence of calm and authority. Yet, Ferdinand learnt quickly that this was not the place for conversations suited for the Barracks or otherwise. He made a mental note to ask the Marshal later of these. While the Marshal spoke sporadically, Ferdinand was quietly pleased with the complements that the Marshal gave him. While he did not seek recognition, the praise justifies the work that he had worked upon recently and now can continue to do with some confidence. The Marshal turned to ask him:
"about that, have you had time to study the Lexicon recently?"
"Marshal, the Lexicon has been a great use to me. Arguably, it forms a precise concept of what humankind and ultimately Grey Knights need to accomplish. Templar's seek to protect life. Hence, I will continue to study our resource and learn the lessons of those whom fought before us. Though I have learnt a considerable amount, there is always more to learn."
Ferdinand stepped back and allowed the Marshal to converse with a young woman behind the looking door and awaited the events that were due to unravel.
–
Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (1 day, 22 hours ago)
message to all nobles of Obia'Syela
After Vahanian had finished at the heretic's estate, he rode to his own, he bathed and changed his clothes before heading to the basilica. As he passed through a courtyard he heard the distinct voices of Maura and Ferdinand echoing across the marble stone, her heard mention of the Lexicon, and smiled.
"She will lead him well, and he will sever even better" he thought to himself.
He rapidly ascended the steps of the basilica's main tower, before arriving at the Oracle's door. He knew that she would not require him to wait or make a formal request for an audience, but old habits die hard and so Vahanian stood outside and spoke to her chamberlain all the same.
The small priest disappeared into her quarters to announce his arrival, and Vahanian stood in the foyer lighting his pipe.
–
Roleplay from Apostate (1 day, 22 hours ago)
Message sent to everyone in the region Rines (14 recipients) They sang such sweet melodies. All eight of them, a beautiful choir to Apostate’s mind. The door, humming commands, demanding to be opened. He had to stop himself from reaching out and taking them. They sung of tearing the veil, of bringing his master and Lords back, of a new era. His breath quickened.
He was lost in it, that fell soul song. So lost he nearly bumped into the Inquisitor when they stopped. He didn’t listen to what she said, only the song. Just the song. Its chaotic and orderly beat, its cruel and sweet words, its demands and begging.
He reached out and quickly withdrew his hand like he had touched flame. No, not here. Not with the Templars.
They moved again and he found himself lightly humming the song. So close, but so very far.
The Basilica would have awed him if he did not belong to the song. It’s architecture and glory paled in comparison to the song. His hand went to his short sword, it would be so easy. Just ope- no, no. Not now. Not yet.
Rooms? In the Basilica? Apostate was shocked, enough to drag him out of the songs embrace. He blinked in disbelief. Now his situation struck him and he was filled with fear. What were their plans for the stones? What if? No, he had to hope for the best. The song danced at the edges of his thoughts and he caught it.
Absentmindedly he followed the servant to his room. He didn’t pay attention, not until the song went away. His mood fouled instantly. He paced, worried. He paced and waited.
–
Roleplay from Vahanian Blint Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (26 recipients) - 12 days, 18 hours, 15 minutes ago Vahanian sat in his command tent, reading over scouting reports and reviewing battle plans. His head snapped up at the sound of a small rustle towards the rear of his tent. Baldwin's head snapped up also, hearing the same noise. Vahanian silently motioned for Baldwin to withdraw from the tent, and he did so. Vahanian shifted his weight in his chair and lit his pipe. He heard hushed whispers and rolled his eyes and then called out.
"You two are about as subtle as a drunk in a whorehouse...Baldwin!" As he called out Baldwin's name, two figures were shoved into Vahanian's tent and thrown down, they fell to their knees and their hoods came askew. Vahanian eyed them as the two burst into laughter, and he couldn't help but smile at his two children. Twins - his son and daughter stood and dusted themselves off. Ever the loving daughter, Viridian came over, kissed Vahanian on the cheek and gave him a hug. Valorian remained where he was, mischief painted on his face.
"We were trying to imitate uncle Leatho!" Valorian called out, Vahanian chuckled and said "Oh is that what that was? Perhaps you need to visit him more often and learn from him." Viridian's face grew dark for a moment and she muttered "If he was allowed in the city maybe.."
Vahanian's smile faded and turned to his daughter "What did you say?" He turned to his son and said "What have you done..?" Valorian wilted a bit and stepped back, Baldwin stepped forward and said "Speak boy, your father asked you a question." Vahanian was actually a bit surprised by the authority Baldwin showed, usually he reserved himself in front of Vahanian's family. He pushed that thought aside for the moment and returned his attention to his son.
"I..was mad.. and so I went to ask Uncle Leatho why the sigil passes to Andross and not me..... I had been drinking..... and..." Vahanian's mood soured 'And what?' Valorian's eyes stared at the floor and he said "I threatened him.." Almost faster than could be seen Vahanian's hand whipped out and backhanded his son's cheek, the force of the strike knocked him back. Either by instinct or shock Viridian jumped forward to her twin's aide. Vahanian rounded on her and said "Stay where you are Viridian!" It had been a long time since she'd heard the level of fury in his voice that she heard now.
Valorain sat on the ground rubbing his cheek, he stood slowly and said "If it matters to you, Gabriel drew his weapon on me first. He almost killed me!" Vahanian's fury had turned into eerily clam rage and he said "As well he should have. He would have been right to do so." Vahanian sat down and took a sip of water. Valorian stared at him, dumbfounded. "How can you say that?!" The fury rising in the younger Blint just as it had his father. "Vahanian stared blankly at his son "You walk into your uncle's city uninvited and armed, and then demand an explanation of him for which you have no right to demand, and furthermore you threaten him!? You essentially attacked Gabriel's charge, and he would have killed you where you stood in his capacity as Leatho's guard."
Valorain's fist was shaking with rage, Vahanian noticed it, as did Baldwin and Viridian. Baldwin slowly placed his hand on his sword's hilt and Vahanian's eyes said 'No'. Ever the faster and much more reserved sibling Viridian darted across the tent and struck her brother in the jaw, dropping him once more. "Learn restraint brother." Valorian let the rage fill him and went for his dagger. Baldwin needed no provocation and drew his sword first holding it at Valorian's throat.
"You would be foolish boy." Valorian let go of his dagger and stood slowly. Vahanian looked at his son, disappointment written on his face. "Disarm" he commanded. Valorain stared at him, and Vahanian stared back, it was a battle of wills and Vahanian was far more patient than his son. Ultimately his son relented and removed all of his weaponry.
Vahanian reached in his pocket and pulled out something, he threw it to his son and said "In the cellar of the cabin where you two were born is a chest, go there and find it, bring me what's inside." Valorian stared at his father "That's in the Vatrona mountains!?" Vahanian nodded he turned to Baldwin and said "Notify all the ports in Rines and Athol Margos - He is not to be offered passage for coin, if he sails he works for the passage." Baldwin nodded.
Valorian stepped forward and said "Why?" Vahanian said "To teach you humility, you've brought dishonor to me and this family, you will right that wrong by doing this."
Valorain stared at his father. Finally he reached for his weapons and said "Come on, Vi, we have a long way to go." Vahanian didn't flinch and said "She stays as do your weapons." Vahanian pulled an iron dagger from his belt and threw it, it buried itself in the dirt, hilt up. "Take that if you must."Valorian looked at his father, shock painted across his face. Viridian's face was stone, she was sad for her brother, but knew it would not help him to intervene.
Valorian turned to go and Vahanian called out "A word of advice. Buy as little as possible. The more people who know you have gold the higher risk you put yourself at. Work for what you need."
Valorain didn't turn around to face his father. He just left without a word.
Baldwin waited and said "Shall I have him followed?" Vahanian shook his head. "No, he needs to do this alone."
–
Roleplay from Stheno
Message sent to everyone in Rines (15 recipients) - 11 days, 18 hours, 46 minutes ago The Journey from the Shattered Vales had been as long and arduous leaving as it had been arriving. Leagues and leagues of roguelands infested by both beasts and undead. She'd lost count of the times she'd stubbed her toe on the road or through the rough, only to find bones or broken arms instead of errant stones. It was even worse on the Sea of Four Cities. She'd always loved the sight of the sea as a girl. but as a young woman she had learned well that beneath its glassy surface was a world of gliding monsters. More than a few times she had been awakened from troubled sleep by screams as careless sailors found their fates in the claws, teeth, and tentacles of the nightmare.
Still, anywhere was more interesting than Rines.
Nevertheless, when the Oracle's summons had found her, Stheno was compelled to return. Relieved as she was to be offship, she was not looking forward to whatever the Oracle had in mind. Though young, Stheno had already had more than her fill of magic. It scared her. And the Moonlight City, home to the Heralds who acted as keepers of magic, scared her badly too.
Regardless, her traitorous feet navigated the thoroughfares of Rines without error and before long she was at the Basilica itself. But things had changed since she'd been gone. Templars guarded the main entrance into the palace, turning away all those without official business or passes from the Powers That Be within. Stheno, having neither, was in no mood to bother. The Basilica had been a second home to her for a time, and in her girlhood she'd explored all of its secret ways...like Cookie.
Head Chef Rasa, affectionately known among the palace staff as "Cookie" was an original Keffan immigrant. One of the few to survive the horror of Keffa's fall and the subsequent Pilgrimage to Rines. More importantly, he was the first and only friend she'd made on her own. Stheno had a quiet, introspective way about her and her sleep was often troubled. When she couldn't find rest, she'd wander. And one day she wandered right into his kitchens after they'd been shut down when Cookie found her. He'd yelled and blustered about servant waifs making a mess for him in the morning, but one look at her had been enough for him to see that her case was different. She'd been young then, and had forgotten to look down and away to hide her black and gold eyes. The bluster went out of him in one whomping breath. Almost resignedly, he offered her some soup and bread. Stheno, frightened, shook her head in refusal, but she hadn't realized how hungry she was and when her stomach growled a loud rebuke, Cookie smiled knowingly, thrust the food into her hands, and guided her to to a low seat near one of the many fireplaces. He didn't ask her any questions, merely went on about his closing tasks, grumbling to himself when he found something unclean. Before she knew it, she'd fallen asleep right there. She awoke the next morning to find Cookie's dress-apron tucked around her like a blanket. From that day until the day she'd struck out on her own from Rines, Stheno remained in that man's shadow. following him, learning how to cook, running errands and memorizing a bevy of interesting curses. She hoped he was still here.
–
Roleplay from Stheno
Message sent to everyone in Rines (15 recipients) - 11 days, 18 hours, 44 minutes ago The servants entrance to the Basillica was on the northside of the grounds, away from the hustle and bustle of the portside and hillside main entrances. While there were still Templars here, they were much less critical and her poor attire helped her blend with the rest of the servants. She kept her head down, looking at know one, and trudged on past them. It was easy to look poor and uninteresting when at least the former was true...
"Hey, you there!"
Stheno froze, not realizing her mistake until it was too late. The Templar that had called hadn't even been addressing her directly, she was just waiting to see who stopped first and Stheno had drawn the short stick.
"Yeah, you'll do. Look, I just got orders to go hunt the grounds for some commoners. Apparently they have passes from the Oracle herself. but I can't leave my post and my replacement isn't hear yet. Do you think you can find them?"
"Uh, sure thing," Stheno lied, "Did you need them back here?"
"No, they're to report to Marshal Maura first. Something about seeing the Oracle if you can believe it."
"You're telling me that some scrubs get to see Her Holiness when us grunts that work here don't?" Stehno complained convincingly.
"I know right?" The Templar agreed, relieved to pass the burden to another. She was distracted by the arrival of another Templar that, from the way she greeted him, Stheno could tell was her belated counterpart. While the Templars spoke to one another, Stheno melted away. She'd have time to say hello to Cookie later. For now, she'd be better able to avoid more direct questions or too many intense stares in her direction by performing the task the Templar had given her. The Marshal, she knew, wouldn't be hard to find. She'd just follow the ant-trail of couriers bearing messages marked for the Enlightenment. She'd discharge this duty quickly and then be off about her own business.
–
Roleplay from Antonio
Message sent to everyone in Rines (15 recipients) - 11 days, 8 hours, 56 minutes ago As the sun rose over the city of moonlight, a young man, whom was equipped with only what he could carry, weakly walked on the cobbled streets.
With old wounds patched up and scars littering his good arm, he eventually came to a fountain. Reaching over to drink some of it's water, the man was relived. Yet, he did not have the strength to carry on much further.
While he was a good arm with a sword, he could not resist the watchmen whom took all the money that he had. Desperate, he traveled to the city of moonlight, while the night was waning, just to see the shimmer of the moon reflecting off the city's spires.
He had made a mistake travelling so far away from civilisation - he could not even sell his wares as he was physically exhausted. Now, will no money nor physical fitness, the young man slumped by the fountain he just drank from, swigged the last remaining drops of beer and collapsed helplessly.
His life seemed to be no longer in his hands - only if someone could help him.
–
Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin
Message sent to everyone in Rines (15 recipients) - 11 days, 22 hours, 13 minutes ago Maura sat motionlessly next to Ferdinand, awaiting further instructions from the Oracle.
Minutes slipped to hours as some of the passerbies likely wondered - "what sort of strange stone is this life-like statue made of?"
–
Roleplay from Ferdinand Greybrook
Message sent to everyone in Rines (15 recipients) - 11 days, 8 hours, 48 minutes ago Life Like Statues
Ferdinand had not anticipated the situation that he had found himself in. Minutes had past into hours - just waiting.
Devotion to Obeah would not hinder Ferdinand's determination. The Marshal did not even flinch or grow tired of waiting for the appointment that was beyond these doors. A few times, Ferdinand did stand up and wonder the small corridor that they waited in. At times, Ferdinand would of begun conversation with his superior. There was much that Ferdinand would of liked to engage with the Marshal.
However, the tense nature of the situation as well as the anticipation of the oncoming meeting prevented such occurrence. The occasional wandering eye landed on the Marshal to anticipate her next movements. She was perhaps roughly the same age as Ferdinand. If one could anticipate her life history, he would be interested to compare his own. After all, his life had only truly began in his eyes when he devoted himself to Obeah.
Nevertheless, while there was a sensation inside of Ferdinand to talk to the Marshal, Ferdinand mirrored his superior and was like her - a life like statue.
–
Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin
Message sent to everyone in Rines (15 recipients) - 10 days, 23 hours, 54 minutes ago Maura shifted on the uncomfortable bench. She always preffered marching to riding and standing to sitting, so her buttcheeks were not used to staying in firm contact with a firm surface for extended periods of time. The agent of the Inquisition appearing in the doorway at the far end of the main hall was a salvation and she stood up as soon as she spotted him. It took the man over a minute to traverse the hall and approach the Inquisitor, such was the size of Basilica.
Hushed voice reported from lips nearly pressed to Maura's ear. All but the most clearly pronounced words fell out of the earshot of anyone except the Marshal. Single shadows of names like "Adolphus" and "Vahanian" and words like "murder" and "fire" fell on the verge of audibility.
Maura inclined her head in thought: "Inquisitor's work..." - she then quickly shook off all swither, stating - "... as long as it's done well..." - not ending her thought out loud.
The agent of Inquisition could barely leave before scouts and clerks of the Enlightenment took his place. Reddled parchment nearly flied around in Basilica as verbose lists of personal and general orders were given. Those who only knew Maura through letters would never have guessed how terse she was in person. As soon as orders for the day were all carried out she sighed with relief, thinking - works of Marshal and of Inquisitor do not go well together - as she noticed that she now had the attention of entire hall. Turning to Ferdinand she saw that he was given a copy of the orders as well, she waved her hand in air:
"It goes without saying, Sir Ferdinand, you are exempt from all orders." - she looked at the Templar beside her and trying to think of an excuse not to sit down she waved her finger in air, pointing at the general outline of the knight's shape as if she was enquiring about a course of exotic food she was served - "Uhm... speak." - her eyelids shut forcefully, scolding her for improper choice of words.
–
Roleplay from Ferdinand Greybrook
Message sent to everyone in Rines (14 recipients) - 9 days, 48 minutes ago
The Waiting Game
"Uhm... speak." - her eyelids shut forcefully, scolding her for improper choice of words.
With the Marshal's poor choice of words, Ferdinand, not matter how inappropriately, let out a small laugh regarding the Marshal's antics.
"I must apologise Marshal, I did not meant to laugh." Ferdinand was fairly shocked at the Marshal's actions. Yet, at the same time, he was pleased and relaxed slightly. Getting up from the bench with his orders within his cloak to observe one of the statues nearby, Ferdinand replied:
"Marshal, please indulge me while we await our predisposed meeting. Please, tell me about yourself? While I serve blindly for Obeah's sake as a Grey Knight, perhaps to serve our goddess in a better fashion, I need to understand the orders and perhaps interpret them with considerations of the sender. One tutor long ago told me that a soldier would fight better to protect his family and friends rather than another soldier in the rank and file. A friend could interpret another's actions even before they had thought it themselves. What do you think of this?"
–
Roleplay from Stheno
Message sent to everyone in Rines (11 recipients) - 10 days, 23 hours, 2 minutes ago
The main hall of the Basilica was just as Stheno remembered it. Originally, she'd been told, the old Riombarans commissioned it as a grand ballroom. However, when the republic fell during the invasion, Rines fell with it. in the ensuing chaos, everything of value had been stripped, smashed, or otherwise rendered worthless. When the beleaguered Keffan pilgrims, lead by the Oracle, finally arrived they saw the large open space with its soaring columns and graceful arches and felt with the conviction of the religious that this space would be better used for the faithful as a public space of prayer and devotion. They stripped this part of the Basillica down to the flagstones, scrubbing away years of neglect and before long what had once been a place of royal decadence now closer resembled a mighty cathedral at the heart of the palace.
As Stheno had guessed, the Marshal had not been hard to find. A few questions to passing servants had been enough for her to learn enough about Maura's appearance and personality for Stheno to recognize her even at a distance. Even without a physical description, Stehno would have marked her as a native of the Desert of Silhouettes. Though she'd never been their, the Desert marked its people, and that same heat flowed through Stheno's own veins.
While the architecture was no doubt impressive, Stheno had always hated crowds, and there were a great many people, form parishioners to military officials, here. The sooner she could finish her business, the sooner she could leave. There was a line of messengers, courtiers, and favor-seekers already formed in front of her, each wishing to petition the influential Margravine for this or that. No longer in any rush, Stehno took her place at the back of the line and kept her head down as it slowly inched forward. As soon as she discharged her inconvenient duty to the Templar, she'd be on her way.
–
Roleplay from Mariana le Craint
Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (26 recipients) - 10 days, 21 hours, 45 minutes ago Upon reaching the city which she had arrived in, Mariana immediately returned to her estate in the port. Returning to the familiar place had been a great desire of hers since, she called to the head attendant that had been situated at the estate.
"Ansgot, run a bath for me. I wish to cleanse myself of this stench. I had fought many a beast however I have found that those that plague these lands have a particular odor which is nigh impossible to clean by normal means."
Mariana headed towards the main hall where an attendant was standing ready with a glass of wine. She grabbed the glass immediately and took a long deep sip, her head tipped back in what can only be described as a rather unflattering look. Holding out the glass, the attendant brought over the bottle and prepared to refill. Watching carefully as the red fluid slid down the side of the glass, splashing delicately into the bottom before settling into a calm and still form. Taking the glass and heading out of the room she made her way towards the bathroom, the scent of lilac and cherry blossoms filling the house. On her travels, Mariana had collected a selection of perfume and bath fragrances that had interested her.
Upon reaching the door, she waved away Ansgot before entering into the privacy of the room. Carefully undressing herself, she left a small neat pile of folded clothes in a small wicker basket near the sink. A silken robe hung on a silver hook near the doorway, adorned with minimal detail, it was made by her mother as her parting gift, both of them had loved baths and the act of cleaning oneself.
Stepping into the large bath, the steam rolling over the surface of the water as a stream of hot water poured out of a carved lions mouth. Tenaciously stepping into the water, breaking the edge creating a series of ripples across the surface of the water. Mariana lowered herself into the bath, the tension of her skin slipping away, her face easing as the warmth of the water enveloped her body. Her mind clearing giving her time to think, steam continuing to flow out of the bath, Mariana took a long deep sip once again from the glass before sinking beneath the surface of the water.
–
Roleplay from Antonio
Message sent to everyone in Rines (11 recipients) - 9 days, 22 hours, 31 minutes ago Antonio, whom had been drifting in and out of consciousness for most part of the day, woke only to a thirst in his mouth and the empty coin-bag held in his hand. Every so often, Antonio dragged himself up from the side of the fountain to have a drink from it's depths. While Antonio had pride, he did not much pay much attention to his surroundings.
Except from one.
The veiled priestess, who was rather tall for a woman - almost stole glances at Antonio. Believing he was dreaming, Antonio once again, fell by the fountain.
It wasn't too long before he awoke the crowd of people around him. In shock, he instinctively went to his dagger in his cloak. However, they were merely offering some sense of support. From that, Antonio took some strength. Looking at one in the eye, they offered to buy one of his handcrafted toys that fell out of his bag. Eagerly, Antonio agreed to the purchase eagerly.
Then, in the distance, he saw her. The veiled priestess.
Antonio did not know what to do but stare.
–
Roleplay from Antonio
Message sent to everyone in Rines (11 recipients) - 9 days, 18 hours, 46 minutes ago Witnessing the Priest provide her lunch for himself, Antonio was astounded. Noone had given him true charity or sympathy in the way they she had given him.
Once Antonio had gathered strength, he returned to his adventure as a hunter gatherer.
After a few days, Antonio inquired into whom the priest that helped him was. Asking passers by for information. Yet, he did not venture into the places of worship - he did not want to intrude.
Therefore, in the time he waited, he sat near the Basilica waiting for the same priest to appear again...
–
Roleplay from Stheno
Message sent to everyone in Rines (11 recipients) - 9 days, 18 hours, 6 minutes ago "Marshal Maura?" Stheno said, inclining her head respectfully, refusing to meet the Margravine's eyes when at last her lot in the line came up.
Stheno was a young woman, barely more than a teenager, though fairly tall. Dusky skin and dark hair clearly denoted her sandborn heritage. She wore a hood over a black gambison cinched at the waste by a thick black leather weapons belt (empty) and soft leather boots. Fingerless gloves protected her palms but revealed calluses of sword and bow. Her face and unbound hair seemed recently washed. Indeed, she seemed unremarkable in every respect, if rather furritive. Understandable behavior for a commoner visiting the Basillica and near to so many highborn nobles.
"I am on a mission for the Oracle, milady, " she explained, "and as part of that, I've been tasked to find a pair of commoners in your employ, milady. Though I know not there names or descriptions. I understand they are to join you and be brought to Her Holiness directly? I hope you can assist me."
–
Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin
Message sent to everyone in Rines (14 recipients) - 8 days, 20 hours, 12 minutes ago Brief laughter from Sir Ferdinand was not unexpected. It was a natural reaction, really, even though most would be afraid to react this way to the Inquisitor.
"Marshal, please indulge me while we await our predisposed meeting. Please, tell me about yourself? While I serve blindly for Obeah's sake as a Grey Knight, perhaps to serve our goddess in a better fashion, I need to understand the orders and perhaps interpret them with considerations of the sender. One tutor long ago told me that a soldier would fight better to protect his family and friends rather than another soldier in the rank and file. A friend could interpret another's actions even before they had thought it themselves. What do you think of this?"
He said and Maura thought briefly on the answer, noticing another batch of scouts and scribes steadily closing in on her brief respite.
"It doesn't matter, does it?" - she saw in her companion's eyes the need to clarify, so she continued - "Templars are soldiers fighting alongside you but they are also your friends and family. In fact Templars are the only family that's worth a damn thing in this Obeah forsaken land. Monsters and undead creep up in the wildlands and the threat of daimons, altough concealed, is ever-present. Being a member of both the Inquisition and the Templars - a privilage shared by so few members of our realm I can tell that fraternity within Templar Order is unmatched. Members of the Inquisition are full of devotion to Obeah... much less to one another. That is not to say inquisitors are without qualities unique to their kind, in fact their unique qualities are the reason why the contents of the Lexicon, while studied by the Templars, are tended to and provided by the Inquisitors. For instance..."
"Marshal Maura?"
A young servant interrupted marshal's speech. It was a girl perhaps in her late teenage years, maybe early twenties. Her bowed head suggested that she was a commoner, yet her unique features and complexion drawn a bit more of Inquisitor's attention. It took barely a couple of seconds for Maura's inquisitive gaze to take stock of servant's characteristics and make proper mental notes.
"I am on a mission for the Oracle, milady, and as part of that, I've been tasked to find a pair of commoners in your employ, milady. Though I know not their names or descriptions. I understand they are to join you and be brought to Her Holiness directly? I hope you can assist me."
The young woman continued and Maura barely restrained herself from rolling her eyes. She looked at the door by which they were waiting for a priestess to carry Oracle's summon and instead they had what looked like a scout carrying Her Holiness instructions through the main entrance. Things sometimes do happen without a reason... - she thought - but not things that have anything to do with the Oracle.
"I hope so too," - Maura answered - "There are hundreds of commoners in my employ. Even when you count just the ones directly under my control at this very moment you'll end up with a number much higher than two."
Marshal's motionless face betrayed nothing as silence followed her reply. She beheld Sir Ferdinand's lack of reaction before she turned to the servant and clarified:
"I jest. Of course I know who you mean. Walk with me." - Maura started to walk but stopped mid-step, turning to Sir Fedrinand - "Wait here, in case priestess comes back with another word from the Oracle. We shall be back once I fetch Ulrika and Apostate. The Oracle's offices are supposed to be..." - she pointed at the high ceiling and whatever chambers rested beyond the reinforced vault - "...there."
She offered her companion a soldierly bow and departed towards residential part of Basilica, not looking back if the young woman keeps up; assuming she does. Halfway through the main hall Maura asked: "So, tell me - how does a warrior end up doing a peon's work? Miss..." - Maura pointedly awaited servant's name along with the answer.
–
Roleplay from Ferdinand Greybrook
Message sent to everyone in Rines (12 recipients) - 7 days, 8 hours, 20 minutes ago Awaiting summons. Rines.
"Wait here, in case priestess comes back with another word from the Oracle. We shall be back once I fetch Ulrika and Apostate. The Oracle's offices are supposed to be..." - she pointed at the high ceiling and whatever chambers rested beyond the reinforced vault - "...there."As the Marshal left with the courier, Ferdinand sat back down, staring at the reinforced vault. The two nobles had been waiting for some time now for these summons. Yet, Obeah's will is seen in a multitude of ways. If he is needed, Ferdinand will answer. It is only a matter of time.
Taking out his notebook, Ferdinand began to write down some thoughts of the Basilica and it's wonders. In this process, Ferdinand also noted to see if any estates in the Capital were available. At least through this manner, he would be able to answer any summons with ease - compared to the days ride from the East.
Every so often, Ferdinand did see some priests or other clerical works wonder the magnificent halls of which he waited. At times, there was a great urge to ask one of them questions about faith and their view. Nevertheless, Ferdinand continued to wait and studied some of the resources that he brought with him, waiting for the Marshal's return.
–
Roleplay from Vahanian Blint
Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (26 recipients) - 7 days, 45 minutes ago Vahanian sat in his apartments in Rines, his men were preparing to leave the city and march to meet with the rest of the army. He was organizing the messages and reports he'd received over the last few days. Several letters fluttered across his desk, they were marked with the stamp of Adolphus the heretic.
A flicker of annoyance briefly flashed across his face. He scanned the letter's and then scribbled a reply. Sending a raven out his balcony window. Shortly after Baldwin entered and silently stood by the door, waiting his Lord's command.
Vahanian slid a letter across his desk and said nothing. Baldwin approached red the letter and the same flicker of annoyance flashed across his captain's face. Vahanian wrote a letter and signed it with a unique symbol. Baldwin was looking at it upside down and was slightly confused, it wasn't until Vahanian handed three copies of the letter to Bladwin that he realized what the symbol was. It was the sigil that the Blint family used to mark someone as an enemy of House Blint.
"Leatho, Andross, and my daughter." Vahanian said. "If he shows his face anywhere in the world, I want him killed." Baldwin disagreed with the course of action, but knew it was futile to protest.
–
Roleplay from Stheno
Message sent to everyone in Rines (11 recipients) - 5 days, 20 hours, 2 minutes ago
Maura offered her Ferdinand a soldierly bow and departed towards residential part of Basilica, not looking back if the young woman keeps up; assuming she does. Halfway through the main hall Maura asked: "So, tell me - how does a warrior end up doing a peon's work? Miss..." - Maura pointedly awaited servant's name along with the answer.
"Stheno, Excellency" Stheno hesitated for only a moment before replying. It wasn't that she wanted to be deceptive, its just that Stheno lacked the social confidence that came so naturally to others. Adding to that, few ever asked for her name, and rarer still from a highborn. Moreover, they were in the Basilica proper now, a Palace by any measure and where she personally had rarely ever ventured. Stheno was uncomfortable, out of her element, and it showed. The weight of all the stone above seemed oppressive to her. Small wonder the Inquisitor had noticed so quickly.
They walked in silence for a while longer with the Marshal a step ahead. Messengers constantly trotted up to the pair, asking the Marshal to sign this or that before vanishing. All the while, Stheno stole furtive glances at her. Sandborn were rare outside of their native lands. Even more so on continents so far from Dwilight, and as the journey went on, curiosity burned brighter within her. Her desire to know what Maura's birthplace was like warred intensely with her desire to get out Rines and back to the woods where she was most comfortable. Instead, she decided to ask something else. Like about why Maura was here in the first place instead of out leading armies. The answer was obvious before she even asked, however. Only the Oracle had the sort of gravity to hold the likes of Maura in place when there was a war on. But every minute Maura was here not fighting the monsters and undead outside the city was a minute that Stheno's job, and that of all the local adventurers, would become that much more difficult.
That won't do, she thought to herself.
"Marshal" Stheno asked with a whisper, "have you been waiting on the Oracle very long?
–
Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin
Message sent to everyone in Rines (11 recipients) - 5 days, 13 hours, 57 minutes ago
"Marshal, have you been waiting on the Oracle very long?"
Stheno's question was simple on the surface, yet the amount of time it took for Maura to answer it would suggest that she was asked about the underlying principle of reality itself.They walked, humble doors on each side of the hall led to chambers obviously occupied by Dame Antonia's entourage and closest servants. Marshal recalled a blue ghost of her lady speaking of truth, magic and purpose in inhuman voice, freeing her from drunken haze forevermore and starting her pursuit of the faith - no, not then.
They walked and Maura could see through half-open doors an armour stand with a plate-mail so big it would leave room to spare even on her imposing physique - clearly those were Dame Antonia's quarters. The Inquisitor recalled long months of danger and humiliation, all the knaves she fought and bedded, all kegs of ale she downed, carnal desires and ailments, failed attempts at nobility and service in the Inquisition, being haunted by delirious phantoms and etheral shapes. She recalled interviewing Gythrul the Defiler, learning of the most dangerous creatures from the best informed source, all the while getting hammered on Thalmarkin Red - no, not then either.
They walked and Maura noted several sparsely located doors to more spacious singular rooms - clearly guest chambers; however doors were closed and door handles gathered varying amounts of dust, informing inquisitive gaze that those chambers were unoccupied. The smooth scar tissue where her left thumb used to be throbbed with familiar pain and the warrior recalled the inhumane torture that made her a guard and subsequently a captain that followed her lady to Obia'Syela - and n... since before then even.
They walked and the marshal noted a couple of recently used doors opposite eachother, smell of incense coming from one of them and ominous aura made hairs stand on forearm when nearing the other. They slowed the pace. She remembered her life among the endless sands. Rare days of elation separated by long months of famine and desperate survival. She remembered happiness she found in this bare, quintessential existence and how abruptly it ended - the metalic taste of blackness that accompanied the instant pressure of pernach on her skull - and not since then?
She stopped in front of one of the doors and not turning to the woman that followed her all the time, she exhaled as if she was holding the breath all the way here.
"That is a good question, Stheno..." - Maura said, unsheathed her broad scimtar, turned it upside down and finished her answer before knocking on Ulrika's door with the sword's handle - "... and the answer would be - all my life."
–
Roleplay from Stheno
Message sent to everyone in Rines (9 recipients) - 5 days, 1 hour, 21 minutes ago Maura stopped in front of one of the doors and not turning to the woman that followed her all the time, she exhaled as if she was holding the breath all the way here. "That is a good question, Stheno..." - Maura said, unsheathed her broad scimtar, turned it upside down and finished her answer before knocking on Ulrika's door with the sword's handle - "... and the answer would be - all my life."
"That's... a long time." Stheno mused aloud after Maura knocked. Stheno was unfamiliar with this wing of the Basillica, the pervading scent of incense assaulted her sensitive nose and she thought she could here movement on the otherside of the door. Soon she will have completed her favor for the Templar and could then be on her way. Rather than relief, however, she couldn't help but wonder at the gravity of the Marshal's words, lending a palpable heaviness that tugged at Stheno's heart. It wasn't quite pity, even without her titles and accomplishments it would be difficult to 'pity' such a physically impressive warrior. Rather, it was a sense that whatever this woman sought or needed, Stehno's gut said Maura deserved it. Then her mouth ran ahead of her thoughts.
"Milady, would you like to go see the Oracle right now?"
–
Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin
Message sent to everyone in Rines (8 recipients) - 3 days, 23 hours, 51 minutes ago Heavy knock on the oaken door subsided.
"Milady, would you like to go see the Oracle right now?"
Stheno asked and Maura in her haste thrown en passant - "That's what we're here for, no? Ulrika! Get your arse off the bed this instant! Her Holiness expects you."
She moved to Apostate's door, saying - "We just need to get these two rascals first" - she thumped three times with her fist and before the forth blow met the oaken surface her hand froze mid-air. She turned around, her gaze gained intensity as it studied the girl before her. Stheno's hood made only half her face visible and Inquisitor's stare almost pierced the black fabric.
Marshal knew things, knew how to come to know them; even back as a simple captain she shown great talent for gathering information, reading people and situations and felt it very important to always be the best informed person in the room. With positions in the Inquisition, Military Command, Templar Order and Court of Lords her resources steadily grew and it has been quite a while now since she felt genuinely surprised. Indeed she could not recall the feeling - simmered in the daily routine of the expected.
The young, female, black-clad puzzle in front of her was a very welcomed refreshment.
Maura smiled and it was likely the first time Stheno saw her face moving, showing anything other than motionless, calm certainty. Through the now fully-formed grin she said:
"I would... I would indeed..." - she spoke inclining her head towards Stheno, slowly seeing more and more of her nose, all the way up to the bottom rims of her eye sockets - " Would you?"
–
Bad Weather? Good Weather?
message to everyone on Beluaterra - 3 days, 8 hours, 5 minutes ago Beluaterra rumbles. Sand dunes shift shape and the seas withdraw from the coasts. Landslides careen down mountain slopes. Stormclouds gather above. The thunder rolls. Lightning flashes through the sky, striking the ground. The wind whips through Beluaterra, bringing salty sea smells to central Beluaterra. Peasants claim to see a fierce face within the clouds. Nonsense, obviously. The rumours still surge throughout the commoners. Bovine look confused. Priests at the local temple offer sanctuary. False oracles prophesy that all is well. Sheep are on edge.
In Hcallow, Tahgalez, Kording, and Watersdown, five adventurers find themselves the target of lightning strikes originating from the beam of portal energy as their portal stones attract the magical-electricity. When the portal stones are struck, they erupt. In small explosions for Herbert 'The HalfBreed' and Sabre. In moderate explosions for Khamul and Jane. In a large explosion for Conugo.
Meanwhile in Rummannen, Mordok is enjoying a campfire in the middle of the day. Why? I don't know. Perhaps the dark clouds? Ask him why he has a campfire mid-day. Anyway, Jayne is hoping her laundry finishes drying on a clothesline in Glongin before its too late. And Aaron is napping away outside in Pequad, apparently sleeping through all the lightning.
None are prepared when the clouds above finally gush forth, causing flash floods throughout the land. Flash floods that sweep thousands of undead and hundreds of monsters away into the sea. Flash floods that miraculously fail to cause damage to human lands. This time peasants claim to have seen a gentle face within the waters. There's always new peasant nonsense.
The rains cease; the floods dissipate. Winds calm. Silence reigns. Ominous clouds part. The crickets cautiously begin their chorus. Bovine and sheep resume grazing. The seas return to the beach. The landslides do not move back up the mountain.
–
Roleplay from Rania Eastersand JeVondair
Message sent to everyone in Heralds of Obeah (35 recipients) - 2 days, 23 hours, 25 minutes ago Faithful of Obeah,
Faces in the water, faces in the sky, monsters and undead alike swept from human lands as Portal magic burns through Beluaterra like wildfire. Some of you may have born witness directly, others may only know of this second hand, as We do.
As the Oracle of the Veiled Goddess and the head of Her priesthood, We can declare that no member of Our faith was involved and, to the best of our knowledge, we do not believe this act to have been enacted by or in the name of the Veiled Goddess. Nevertheless, if the rumors are true and the beasts that have harangued humanity since the daimontimes have at last been banished back whence they came, then We must declare this as a Miracle. The first true miracle seen in this world since Obeah herself interceded directly on Our behalf. Based on the portents, We have decided to name it the Two-faced Miracle.
Now it may be confusing that Obeah's Oracle would name a miracle while not claiming responsibility for it. However, just because this is not an Obian event does not mean it is not a miracle for Her followers, or of direct benefit towards Her Will. We have all of us struggled mightily against the daimon, the monster, and the undead. Claws have riven our shields. Rusted blades have pierced our armor. Friends have been blasted apart by eldritch fire. Now, if not ended, the threat of thee fates may at least be greatly lessened. Look upon the state of the world. Look at the once-mighty nations rendered impotent against the unending scourge of the netherwilds. Look and remember that Obeah is not just a divine force for the good of Obia'Syela, but for all humanity. Now word comes that all humanity on this continent will be able to sleep safer, that realms will be able to extend their power and protection over smallfolk who have been vulnerable for far too long. Fields will grow, Villages will grow, humanity will grow. And when the daimons come again, We will have been made that much stronger. This, followers of Obeah, is a miracle for us all.
We must use the time that providence has bestowed upon us to spread and grow as strong as we can. Never forget that until Obeah is anchored to this plane, then the daimons will come again to wreak havoc and devastation. if the rogue scourge that have checked Our power for so long has truly been diminished, then we must do everything in our power to prepare for the next war against the Netherworld. Remember always that until the day Obeah comes, there is no respite, no reprieve, no deliverance from the Netherworld's return. Only a clock ticking ever downwards as ever daimon beyond the Veil claws at it to reach us. We therefore charge all followers of the Veiled Goddess with a simple mission: Conquer the Rogue Lands. We do not care what realm lays claim to what territory. We do not care how many beast, natural or undead, remain to fight Us. We do not care what future realms are founded where. Now is not a time to rest, but to mobilize! Tell Our children in the Sacred Realm to prepare their bulwark, tell our brothers in the Shattered Vales to reforge the Jeweled Throne, tell our cousins in Nothoi to reclaim their demesne, tell our friends in Ar-Agyre to rise up, tell the keepers in Calient to protect the First Temple, Tell our loved ones in Thalmarkin, Gotland, Bara'Khur to grow and be vigilant. In the name of the Veiled Goddess, let nothing stand in your way. Spare nothing that is inhuman.
Templars! Sharpen your swords! Inquisitors! Light your torches! Heralds! Gather your spells!
Go now, ride forth and cleanse as much of the roguelands as possible with fire and prayer. Make safe these lands for the innocent who will follow the trails that our armies will blaze.
In Obeah's Name, Be Prepared.
Under Her Eye,
–
Roleplay from Ulrika
Message sent to everyone in Rines (10 recipients) - 2 days, 4 hours, 8 minutes ago
Ulrika
Ulrika, having spent her time enjoying the lavish apartments and struggling not to pocket everything that wasn’t nailed down, heard the rapping of knuckles on the door and slowly got up off of her bed and went over, yawning slightly.
‘Shouldn’t’ve had that last bottle of wine’ she muttered, before stumbling out of her door. She spotted Maura and waved, but as she went to walk towards her she collided with a solid mass of muscle.
…..
A shape barrelled into Antonia as she walked down the corridor of her estate, looking for where Balthasar had got to.
‘Watch it!’ She gasped as she was forced to take a couple of steps backwards and bash her head on the lintel.
‘I am so sorry m’lady, are you hurt bad? Should I fetch a doctor, should I…’ She stopped as she saw the height of the woman she had potentially pissed off, her jaw near hitting the floor
‘It’s quite alright, I wasn’t looking where I was going either’ Antonia said stiffly continued down the corridor
‘Marshal’ she nodded at Maura as she passed, and then stopped, turning to look back at Ulrika
‘Do I know you from somewhere?’
‘Erm, don’t think so m’lady’
‘Hmm’ Antonia said, thinking hard, ‘it’s like looking in a mirror, what a coincidence’
Antonia then continued down the corridor, calling out her lover’s name
Ulrika brushed herself off and hurried over to Maura
‘Is there something you needed of me, m’lady?’, she said as she curtseyed
–
Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin
Message sent to everyone in Rines (15 recipients) - 7 minutes ago Maura smiled as Antonia passed her in the Basilica corridor after bumping into Ulrika.
‘Is there something you needed of me, m’lady?’
Ulrika said, curtseying.
"You can fetch... the thing you were supposed to fetch. We're going to the Oracle..." - Maura eyes Stheno cautiously - "... are we?"
–
Roleplay from Vahanian Blint
Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (29 recipients) - 2 hours, 41 minutes ago Vahanian finished penning the second letter of the day and sealed it into an envelope, he handed it off to servant who would see it delivered. He poured a cup of tea for himself and looked across the room at his most trusted servant and captain. "With 2 letters my plans are in motion. Now we must ensure they take hold and grow."
–
Roleplay from Rania Eastersand JeVondair
Message sent to everyone in Rines (15 recipients) - just in "The sooner the better, Milady" Stheno said, excitement now inflecting her voice. "If this is the one-" she motioned to Ulrika, inspecting the other adventurer up and down from beneath her hood. "-that I was charged to find and bring to you, then I am happy to see my duty completed. Let's go?"
As she voiced the question, Stheno moved to the other side of the hall to make room for Ulrika. Everything in her body language suggested that Stheno was eager to depart.
–
–
