Arnickles Renodin/Maura/OS july

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Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (18 days, 15 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Jessica felt across the table until she felt the soft cotton of a napkin, and lightly touched it to the corner of her mouth.

"My lord Inquisitor," Bryant said humbly, "Would not such an offensive force fall under the preview of the Templars?"

Jessica raised an eyebrow as her Master Scribe spoke. She rested her hands delicately in her lap and waited for Adolphus' response with curiosity.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (18 days, 14 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela "The Templar's role is on the battlefield. The Ordo Magi would be tasked fretting out and hunting hidden threats. Threats traditionally beyond the reach of the Templars." Adolphus replied

"It would work closely with the Templars, of course, but it would be an independent body, under the jurisdiction of the Inquisition. Fell magic and heresy do go hand in hand of course."




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (18 days, 3 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Jessica listened silently while Adolphus spoke, and then the three sat silent for a moment. Jessica frowned, but made no further communication.

Bryant cleared his throat awkwardly, and changed the subject, "Grand Inquisitor, I have been informed that the quarterly elections have begun. I shall make my way to the elections offices and make sure your name is on the ballot for..."

Jessica shook her head.

Bryant set his fork down, shocked, "You are not running again for Grand Inquisitor?"

She shook her head again.

Bryant looked to Adolphus, eyes wide.




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (17 days, 21 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian smiled as Maura stumbled through an attempt to pseudo apologies for taking on the butchery of his kill. He paid it no mind, he wasn't attached to the pelt, and she'd done nothing to spoil the meat. He wiped his hands on a rag and offered a fresh one to her as well.

He beckoned her to follow him into his tent, and dispatched a servant to bring wine, ale, water, tea bread and cheese. Maura's guard stayed outside the tent as the two nobles sat down in relatively comfortable field chairs, opposite one another. The servant returned and allowed Maura to chose the beverage of her choice while pouring a steaming cup of tea for Vahanian. He fought back the urge to pour a goblet of the deep Vatrona red wine that sat on the table. He could smell its aroma and it was almost as intoxicating as the wine itself.

He pushed the thought from his mind, and instead pulled out his pipe and lit it. Puffing on the sweet smoke of the wailing wood tobacco he so loved. He leaned his head back and exhaled his lung-full of smoke. "Marshal... where to begin.. If I am being candid, I know very little of your venture with the Templar Order, but I would certainly love to know more. I would love to hear an assessment from you of the differences between the Templars and the Inquisition, having been a member of both you are in a unique position to comment on both. As for the daimons.. That is a long and dark history that haunts me to this day. I have seen and fought far more of them then I ever care to remember."

Vahanian sipped at his tea, his deep hazel eyes staring across the table at Maura, who sat there, impassive, a strong silent sentinel. In this moment, he was utterly convinced of 2 things. First that he had made the right choice in his selection of Marshal, and secondly, she was one of the most dangerous people in the realm. Both pieces of information he tucked away in his mind to mull over later.

He continued talking after a brief pause and said "If I have learned anything from fighting daimon kind, its that they, like people, have habits and can be predictable. They usually always start by trying to divide the realms. They find a weak minded, or weak morale realm and obliterate any opposition, They then use that realm to stage the rest of their warfare. Expect no quarter to be given and none must be shown. That is imperative. They prefer slaughter to capture, but in the event of capture, they relish slow and anguishing torture. They seek out, and hunt down what a person loves the most, and either corrupt it or destroy it. I have rather intimate experience with such tactics..."

Vahanian's eyes glazed over briefly and filled with unimaginable pain and sorrow. He quickly banished the thoughts and emotions from his brain and continued his speech.

"Daimons love to target and destroy any semblance of hope. They will fight tooth and claw till the last beast and have no problem defiling holy or sacred things. I have learned to always 'Plan for the worst case scenario, and expect that it will be even worse than that'. Daimon's are hard to kill, and even harder to vanquish. Color, creed, beliefs, all go out the window when Daimon's attack, They care not who they slaughter, and we should care not who we stand next to against their onslaught."

He paused once more and sipped his tea before saying "Above all else, never doubt yourself. Doubt kills."




Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin (17 days, 1 hour ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela As soon as the servant brought the beverages in Maura got overwhelmed by the heavy scent of red wine. She clenched her teeth and shook her head slightly in order to clear it before she requested a cup of water. Soon the smoke from Vahanian's pipe pushed the smell of alcohol aside, she welcomed it - billowy grey puffs of salvation slowly enchanted the air with mild opacity.

Maura made a mental note to further explain the quest she sees for both of the orders and continued to listen to the tale of Grand Templar's experiences with daimon kind.

"... They seek out, and hunt down what a person loves the most, and either corrupt it or destroy it. I have rather intimate experience with such tactics..."


He said, with a brief flicker of what might've been despair, cloaked in hardiness. Merely a spark behind a stained glass, one that disappeared as soon as it appeared and would go unnoticed by anyone less attentive.

She continued to listen to the tale and when Grand Templar said - "Above all else, never doubt yourself. Doubt kills." - she inclined her head with brief sigh.

"Doubt... was an enemy of mine for the longest time. I would like to think I defeated it already. Forgive me, Grand Templar, but..." - she chose her words with utmost care - "... what you tell me is that daimons are powerful and evil."

Maura gulped the remaining water in her cup and leaned forward, lowering her voice a bit - "The Goriad's Fol... I mean the Grand Herald's campaign was not the greatest success but I personally achieved all I sought to achieve on that excursion. I've made contact with friends, allies and... I learned. It was not easy, for most people treat knowledge as their personal treasure, but I still learned. In fact I learned almost all there is to learn. But I am yet to talk this matter in person with someone who fought them in person. I need someone like that to teach me the specifics..." - she leaned back again, satisfaction almost seeping through to her voice - "... I need someone like that to help me train."

Marshal weighed Vahanian's reaction and decided to explain - "M'Lord, the venture I spoke of would be a joint effort of both Orders. As you know Inquisition is an institution unparalleled in seeking out and applying truth and knowledge. I would work together with a couple more select Inquisitors to that end. But there is one more thing that I need..." - Maura whistled and heavy clang of steel announced the new guest inside the tent - before them now stood a steel-clad beast - "... the truth we obtain will be a weapon. And every weapon needs someone to wield it. That's where I see the role of Templar Order. Templars seek to protect life and what is greater threat to life than the Netherworld? Templars are not allowed to die, for it would be a dereliction of duty. Allow me to select a couple of Templars for that task, I even have some candidates in mind already. All I would need is your permission and a specific title to distinguish them easily from the lot. These ones..." - Maura leisurely pointed to the huge warrior - "I call them Grey Knights. They're all nobleborn, sworn to that very cause."

Marshal waved the knight away and as he left the tent she concluded - "Forgive the show but I... I needed to explain the purpose of my questioning. Regardless of your decisions, I will still want to learn of daimons. Of their strengths, and more importantly - of their weaknesses."




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (15 days, 16 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus's eyes went wide.

"You won't run? But, your eminence..." Adolphus let his silverware clatter to the table.

"Why? What shall you do?"




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (14 days, 20 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Jessica heard the clatter and raised an eyebrow. Surely the Inquisition would carry on successfully without her at the helm.

She would continue her Inquisition duties, from a more shadowy position.

She also needed to revisit the memory of her prophetic vision, and consult the Oracle on the signs and symbols.

Lastly, and more importantly, she needed to do something about this damned blindness. She would need to seek out some magic users...

For now, she listened to the silence between Braynt and Adolphus. She lifted her hand to cover her eyes, and then uncovered them.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (14 days, 20 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus finished his course in silence.

"The two that have announced their candidacy have done nothing for the Inquisition. We'll be leaderless, and die a slow death of top down silence." Adolphus finally spoke.

"Unless..." He paused, struggling. "I really would rather not abandon the shadows so soon after stepping into them, but what choice do I have." Adolphus rang a bell, and a servant came forth.

"First off, renew my knightly vows of battlefield conduct and what not, hopefully nobody will notice my cavalier attitude towards it all. Secondly, inform the realm that I will be running for Grand Inquisitor."




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (12 days, 23 hours ago)

Message sent to: Adolphus Schwarzherzig ♂, Maura Arnickles Renodin ♀, Rania Eastersand JeVondair ♀ "M'lady..."

Jessica stopped feeling around her parlour room table for her tea cup and cocked an ear towards Bryant.

"A strange letter from the Grand Inquisitor," he continued, "He is asking if you have any knowledge of tasking Informants with gathering portal stones...?"

Jessica raised a brow in surprise. Gathering portal stones in one place? That sounded terribly dangerous...

"I shall inform him that no order came from you, whilst you retained office?" Bryant asked.

Jessica nodded in the affirmation, and continued her search for her tea.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (12 days, 23 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Jessica stood in her training room, head bowed, listening.

Several trainers circled her, holding large pads and a stick. One slapped his stick against his pad, to her right. Quickly she struck out with a side kick to the pad. As she did, another stick slapped a pad, to the opposite direction. She used the reactive momentum from her kick to push her towards the new threat and throw a left cross into the pad.

Another pad crashed into her right side. She lowered her centre of gravity to maintain her balance, hugged the pad and drove her knee up into it. As it fell back from the knee, she lifted her leg higher and delivered a thrust kick.

Suddenly she could see the Sacred Obia'Syela.

She stumbled backwards, shocked at the first sight in months that wasn't blank whiteness. She saw the world, as she had in her vision, focused on SOS.

She heard a stick smack against a pad. She turned her head towards the sound. She was still physically in the training room, but the sight of the realm overloaded her senses. Another pad struck her side, and she fell to her knee, trying desperately to control herself.

As she struggled to regain her footing and confront the assault, she watched as a beam of light ripped open, flaring up towards the Veil, at the centre of the realm. She forced herself to spin and throw a kick in the direction of the pad which had struck her, but it had moved already and she over extended, causing her to stumble backwards.

Tendrils of blackness snaked down from the breach the beam of light had caused in the Veil, whipping their way down to the ground below. A pad struck her face. She dropped her centre of gravity and allowed the strike to carry her backwards into a reverse summersault to deposit her back on her feet. She felt out and touched the stone wall behind her. As she watched the Darkness creep down towards the realm, she heard a stick slap a pad in front of her. She gritted her teeth and launched herself off the wall into a flying knee. The ferocity of the strike surprised the pad holder and he fell to the ground. Jessica landed and spun a kick along the ground. She caught someone's ankle, causing him to tumble with a curse. She leapt back to her feet as a horde of Daimons charged through the open portal on the ground, slaughtering the people who had gathered around in curiosity. Panic spread as the horde ripped through the village, more and more pouring into their world from the Darkness.

She dropped to one knee and held up her hands to stop the exercise. Breathing heavily, she watched the world and the Daimon assault fade back into her normal vision of pure white nothingness.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (11 days, 16 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus pushed the seal of his office into the wax and blew on it, before handing it off to a servant. He sighed, shook his head, and pushed his chair back. It was a dramatic, and unexpected change. One moment, he was training rigorously, breaking into tax offices, and forging himself into a weapon, devoted to a life in the shadows. And now... He looked around his office. Much more organized and definitely less crowded than when it had belonged to his predecessor. Adolphus stood, and donned his greatcoat. It was now adorned with the finery his office demanded, gold braiding, and the gilded badge of his office. He looked at the brace of swords hanging on the wall, and then out the window. He turned, and snapped at a servant.

"Inform Inquisitor Maura to meet me at the academy, and be prepared to test her skills. Let us see how our Daimon Hunter performs with a blade."

Adolphus buckled one of his swords to his belt, and, retinue in tow, made his way to the academy.




Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin (11 days, 9 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Like a man guiding a child the knight in grey steel led the messenger to an empty round building made of stone.

Inside stood the Inquisitor, a woman kneeling in front of her.

The bascinet ending two meters above ground bellowed: "messanger from the Grand Inquisitor." And the body below it ushered the man further in.

"And what would Grand Inquisitor need of me..." - Maura more thought out loud than asked - "a training match! Obeah's grace! It's been a while since I had one of those. Go to your master and inform him that I will gladly accommodate his wish."




Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin (11 days ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela "My Lord Grand Inquisitor..." - Maura said, entering the academy - "I am glad you finally took me up on my offer. I recall inviting you on a training match first thing after you set foot on the land of Obia'Syela" - she walked up to the weapon stand and picked up a dull-bladed version of her scimtar, almost every training place in Rines had one waiting just for her. She stepped a couple of step towards Adolphus, her sword unsheathed - "shall we begin?"




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (10 days, 21 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus picked up a dulled hand and a half sword off the racks, unbuckled his sword belt, and shrugged out of his great coat.

"As do I. I also vowed to myself I would not rest until I had beaten you." Adolphus said, holding his sword out to his side as he walked along the edge of the circle of the ring.

"Let us see what you are made of, my Lady Daimon Hunter." He said, launching at once into an all out offensive. He struck, and struck again, his blows being parried, but he was gaining ground. Adolphus lashed out with a backhanded strike when he felt a blow to his ribs. He grunted, and stepped back, the academy staff calling the match.

"It seems you win again. Well struck."




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (10 days, 21 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian stood in the stands, hidden partially in shadow as he leaned against the wall. He watched the two Inquisitors test themselves against one another. He mentally noted each combatant's weapon choice, smiling slightly as he saw Maura's choice.

He watched intently as Adolphus launched an aggressive offensive, "Surprising speed" he thought. "There. There. There. There. Foot work. There." He thought rapidly as he watched each fighter, calling the openings he saw in each defense, as well as weaknesses he perceived. He was not master bladesmen, but he'd been in enough fights in his life to know what to look for. Adolphus gained ground rapidly, and in the blink of an eye the academy staff called the match in Maura's favor, her blade resting against Adolphus's ribs.

"Wound. Interesting.." Vahanian whispered curiously, noting that the location of her blade would not have killed Adolphus on its own. Baldwin stepped forward and questioned "My Lord?" Vahanian shook his head. "She fights well. They both do. She reminds me of Leatho's fighting style.." Baldwin cleared his throat quietly and said "Your brother, is much faster than either though, is he not my lord?" Vahanain nodded his head, "He's faster than I. Granted. He's also got close to 4 decades of more experience than either of them." He clapped his hands quietly and nodded to the two combatants, thought he was sure neither of them knew he was there.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (8 days, 1 hour ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Bryant stood with a clip board, parchment, and a quill as the stock taking of La Propriété de Silence was taken.

"Master Scribe," a servant carried over a bundle of scrolls.

"Ah yes, the magic..." Bryant nodded, readying his quill.

"One times Splash of Acid, three times Summon Undead, and one times Summon Monsters," the servant reported as he leafed through the scrolls.

Bryant nodded, scribbling, "Return them to the vault," he tore the inventory from the parchment and called to a messenger, "Deliver this report to Inquisitor Maura, if you please."

The messenger folded the report into an envelope and headed off to his pony.




Roleplay from Goriad II Gabanus (7 days, 11 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (36 recipients) Goriad II had arrived in Ardmore to speak to the troops, but just before he wished to enter the camp a messenger came hurrying to him. "Milord, I bring word from the Oracle," he said and Sigmund accepted the letter and read it to his master: "To reiterate:," he began as he continued to read out loud "...royal standing....duel the Grand Templar to earn the rights," and at this point half way through the letter a dagger flew out into a tree out of nowhere, it was Goriad II's. "Duel him, duel him? I've had enough of this, I'll duel him myself, remove this problem once and for all."

Sigmund had a rather terrified look upon his face. The last time his mater had dueled the old man he had lost and since then he has hardly touched a sword, but Sigmund was wise enough not to contradict him.

"Sigmund, we'll do it now. We march into the camp and find the old man, make his wish come true. A duel to the death it is. Either this problem will no longer be present, or it will no longer be my problem!"

Sigmund then looked at him "Milord, do you wish to write the realm, or anyone else?" Goriad II shook his head, "almost all are in Ardmore, they can come to witness. Just make a small note to the Oracle, that it is her constant sabotage that has led to this."

And so Goriad II rode to the camp of Vahanian, sword in hand.




Roleplay from Goriad II Gabanus (7 days, 11 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Just as Goriad II entered the camp he was informed that Vahanian was no longer in Ardmore but had returned to Rines. "Send him word to meet me in Avengmil, we will settle this!




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (4 days, 18 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian was half way up the steps of the Basilica in Rines when a messenger handed him an urgent notice. Red Parchment, typical of orders. Who would be giving him orders?

He read the notice. It was a challenge. A duel until death. He couldn't believe it. Goriad had finally challenged him to a duel until death. Over what? a simple request? Vahanian handed the note to Baldwin who read it and then Vahanian said, "Prep my horse and gear, we leave as soon as I am finished here." Baldwin seemed as though he wanted to protest, but Vahanian brokered no argument 'Baldwin, go, I will meet with her alone. Be ready to leave as soon as possible, we will meet no delay. It is time for us to end this."




Roleplay from Goriad II Gabanus (4 days, 3 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients) As Goriad II woke up he had received word that Vahanian had been seen in Rines and his Inquisitors remained to follow the Grand Templar. A man arrived at Goriad II's estate and informed him of where he could find Vahanian, right near the basilica.

"Good," he said "It is time we finish this," and Goriad put on his light armor, supported by shoulder pads of steel and his three curved blades stuck into his armor.

And so he marched towards the Basilica, ready for battle, for the first time in years.




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (4 days, 2 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian waited in the antechamber for the Oracle to admit him into the inner-sanctum. He was re-reading the letter in his mind, playing it back, thinking on the reasons for it.

Baldwin entered the antechamber and kneeled, out of reverence for this holy place. 'My Lord, your things are ready, we are ready to leave whenever you please.'

Vahanian nodded and then said 'Summon the men. While I meet with the oracle, nobody enters. I don't care who it is. Obeah herself will not interrupt this meeting, unless the Oracle wills it. Do you understand?"

Baldwin nodded yes, whispered something to a servant, and moments later, 41 heavily armed and well trained infantry soldiers surrounded the door to the Oracle's chambers. Nearly doubling the Personal guard of the oracle. Vahanian penned a letter and then handed it to Baldwin. "See that this is delivered to every noblemen in the realm. Including the Grand Herald. I will not accept his challenge." Vahanian went over and stood by the window, lighting his pipe and staring out at the holy city, awaiting his summons.




Roleplay from Antonia Fitz Roberts (4 days ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela

Defending the Basilica

Antonia read the orders of the Grand Herald and let out an audible moan that caused Rosie to look up from her book in their apartments in the Basilica.

‘What is it?’

‘Oh sh*t! Sh*t on it, sh*t on it! Bugger it until next Sunday!’

‘Okay, now you have to tell me’

Without answering, Antonia handed the red paper over to Rosie while she hurriedly ran to her armour stand and pulled off her dress

‘Help me get this stuff on and call Balthasar!’

Rosie read the orders and groaned as well, before hurriedly strapping her friend into her blood red armour

‘Bloody Templar-Inquisition rivalries are going to tear this land apart’ Antonia growled before shouting a set of expletives so vile that it made even Rosie blush.

‘Nice imagery’ Rosie said, ‘real nice. Especially the part about the porcupine and the rectum, real classy like, one would almost think that you were from a noble family. Oh wait…’

‘Just… Shut Up!’ Antonia yelled in exasperation, throwing her hands up in the air. ‘I just need time to think’

At this moment, Balthasar came in, dressed in his ceremonial armour. ‘I heard shouting, what is it?’

‘Just gather the girls in the entrance hall, and hurry. You have five minutes’

Balthasar ran to do as he was told. He had learnt the hard way not to question the wishes of his lover

At last Antonia was ready and ran down the stairs, hefting her newly acquired shortened boarding pike studded with rubies over her shoulder. It would work better for crowd control than her zweihander, which she had still flung over her back. Rosie ran after her, panting as she tried to keep up with her much taller friend

‘Antonia, whose side are we taking in this?’ She asked between laboured breaths

‘Neither I hope, but I will not let the blood of honest Obians be spilt in this holy place. I have been entrusted with the safe-keeping of this building and its surrounding areas. I am honoured with having apartments here. I shall not let the old fool destroy it in order to mend his pride!’

As she rounded the corner, she saw her girls armed and ready. She was fortunate that all ninety-four had been in the building that day, as she recalled Eponine had organised some entertainment to be held in the lower chambers. Knowing Eponine it was unlikely to have been appropriate entertainment, but Antonia preferred not to get involved. She called to the first soldier she saw

‘Frieda run to the captain of the Grand Templar’s retinue, Baldwin I believe he is called. Tell him that we shall not allow any armed men or women into the heart of our most sacred land’

As the woman ran off, Antonia called out to the rest. ‘Let no one in unless I say so. Avoid the spilling of blood but the sanctity of this place will be maintained at all costs’ she turned and led the troops out of the grand doorway and into the blinding glare of the sun. They formed up into a semi-circle halfway up the steps to the Basilica, those with shields at the front. They stood under the hot summer sun, waiting for the Grand Herald to arrive

‘Acriter et Fideliter’ she muttered to herself. Today as always the motto of the Martyrs to ring true




Roleplay from Goriad II Gabanus (3 days, 23 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients)

As Goriad II approached the Basillica he noticed a large amount of troops had gathered before it. Apart from those bearing Vahanian's flag he also noticed another in the crowd.

"I see you have answered my call," he said as he walked towards them, "Let me enter and face the old man, or prepare yourself to be arrested on charges of treason."




Roleplay from Antonia Fitz Roberts (3 days, 22 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients)

At the words of the Grand Herald, Antonia stepped forward

‘To allow you passed to commit murder on sacred ground would be treason. I will not let you enter so armed with murderous intent, as that would threaten the security of the Oracle. Withdraw from this place and return to whence you came or you shall be arrested on charges of attempted murder and threatening the safety of the Oracle, not to mention heresy for violating sacred ground’

At this last Antonia stepped back into her forces, as the rondache shields were raised and blades drawn




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (3 days, 20 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian stepped forward a bit and his men parted without a word. He faced the Grand Herald, his arms folded behind his back, puffing on his pipe.

"Goriad II, what do you hope to accomplish here? My death? Unlikely. Changing my mind? No. Changing the Oracle's mind? No. The Oracle's death? Not a chance. Your death? Most likely.. This is foolish and stupid. Walk away now and recover what is left of your honor." Dame Antonia arrived in that moment, at the head of her own soldiers.

Goriad spoke to her, utterly convinced that she was here to aide him. Vahanian was less convinced and said in a calm, yet stern voice. "Dame Antonia, I will not deprive you of your right to be here and defend your home, but if you find this situation awkward and uncertain what to do, consider this. As Commander of this realm's armies it is within my prevue to honorably dismiss any noble of their sworn militant duties. I offer you this dismissal now, if you wish to take it. You may leave her and allow what is about to happen to happen, and it will be no fault of your own if blood is spilled. I have issued the order to all soldiers of the sacred realm to abide by and obey the Marshal's orders, you are not exempt from that command, but again, I will not prevent you from doing what you feel you must."

Vahanian turned his gaze back towards the Grand Herald. 'Walk away Goriad II, walk away. Nothing good will come from this." Vahanian heard Baldwin step forward, to where he was just behind Vahanian and draw his sword. Among Vahanian and his soldiers, he himself was now the only man without a weapon drawn. The tension in the room was palpable.




Roleplay from Antonia Fitz Roberts (3 days, 20 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients)

Antonia turned to Vahanian. ‘My lord, to leave now would be to betray everything I hold dear. The orders were that no one was to ride on the Basilica. I did not ride, for I was already here. The orders were to refit in Rines. My equipment is repaired and I am waiting for taxes to come in tomorrow to find more recruits. My being here is within the bounds of Marshal Maura’s orders. I stand by you my lord, as the true defender of the Oracle.’

This said Antonia turned back to Goriad

‘This is my estate, Your Eminence. I do not offer you my hospitality, you are not welcome in my home, and you shall not receive my bread and salt. So long as Vahanian is here, he is under ancient law my guest and a guest of the Oracle. As his host, I cannot allow you to harm him. If you take one more step forward I shall be forced to take measures to have you removed’

Turning a back to Vahanian she whispered ‘where the f*ck is the Inquisition? They can help end this madness?’




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (3 days, 19 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Antonia's soldiers filed in front of Vahanian's as she said her piece. He could not help but respect her all the more for her actions. She whispered back to him 'Where the f*ck is the inquisition, they could help end this madness.." Vahanian's face remained impassive, his eyes fixed on Goriad. 'They will not come." Vahanian said, he said it loudly so that Goriad II might hear it. "No one else is coming. He does not command anyone anymore. He is lost, he is mad. Darkness and doubt have crippled our once great Herald. And now he will throw away his life for nothing."

Vahanian paused and said. "Antonia, prepare yourself, if you wish to stop him, you will have to kill him."




Roleplay from Achelous Drakos (3 days, 18 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Achelous had been enjoying a rather nice stroll up to the basilica with Sebastian to visit his cousin. He had to stop and try to wrap his head around what exactly he had seen. First and foremost was his cousin Antonia in her bright red armor at the head of her martyrs, then there was the distinctive figure of Goriad II at the bottom of the stairs.

Achelous paused to take this in for a second before yelling up, "Antionia! What in the hells is happening!"




Roleplay from Alacrix Galar (3 days, 17 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela The night was calm in Avengmil. Alacrix was snipping his wine and enjoying the night. It seemed that he rarely had a peaceful day followed by a peaceful night. He looked up at the stars and raised his glass in a toasting gesture. He had been thinking lately that it might be nice to host a party soon at his new residence in Ardmore. It might just show how much he truly appreciated how much all the nobles have been defending Ardmore.

Alacrix was pouring another glass of wine when he heard the approaching rider. He looked up to see Odwin. Odwin expression told him that soon Alacrix would be drinking something a lot stronger than wine. "My Count-" Odwin shouted.

"Not so loud Odwin. Do not wake the men, they have need of sleep."

"My Count. The Grand Herald Goriad II has marched on The Holy Basilica to fight the Grand Templer! The Grand Templer and his men, as well as lady Antonia Roberts, have formed a defensive ring around the Basilica. They are saying that The Grand Herald is committing treason!"

"Thank you for informing me of this Odwin. Did the Grand Templer or Marshal Renodin give any orders?"

"They said that everyone is to march to Ardmore and not to head back to Rines. The Grand Templer said that this matter was for him to deal with."

"He would say that. Odwin look at me." Alacrix waited till the young man looked at him. "You cannot tell the men yet about this. Half of them are still green and they may not take it well. We will wait till there is an outcome then we will tell them. Do you understand?" The man nodded. "Good now you need to get some sleep. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow."

Alacrix watched Odwin walk his horse back to camp before entering his own tent. He went to his trunk to find a bottle of whiskey that he was saving for a troubling day. While he was looking his hand brushed against a folded piece of paper. It was the pamphlet that Herald Goriad had given him when he first became a knight of Rines. It was one of his treasured possessions, for it was all about Obeah and the faith.

"Why Goriad? Why are you doing this?" He whispered. After several minutes of staring at the pamphlet he carefully placed it back in his trunk and proceeded to pour the whiskey.




Roleplay from Rania Eastersand JeVondair (3 days, 13 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Divus was sleeping soundly, his elegant courtier attire shifted with the gentle rise and fall of his chest. His chin, tucked neatly center against his collarbone. Even in sleep, it seemed, he remained aware of where he was and upon whom he'd waited. At first she wondered if so simple a disguise as affecting the garments of a 'mere' senior priestess would have failed, particularly without her ceremonial veil. Rania grinned. It was a slow expression, almost hesitant, like the first sunrise after a bitter winter storm. It was relief. It relief at having been right to summon Divus in the first place. He would do better than she'd initially hoped.

Content to let him sleep, Rania ordered some food and coffee be brought. When it arrived, however, it came with a stack of reports and messages that her secretary underpriest had wisely refused to trouble her with while was busy.

Whatever he had, apparently it could not wait.

Wordlessly, the underpriest bowed, but did not turn to leave.

Rania started tapping her finger. Disruptions irritated her. "Yes?"

"Your Grace," he began, purposefully inserting her secular title and thus signalling that what followed would clearly be a matter of State. "Your Grace-" he repeated, licking his lips at the unfamiliar mode of address, "I'm afraid there's been....well there's been a disturbance in the court."

Rania raised an eyebrow, the metronome tapping of her finger increased in pace.

"Y-yes, quite right. A disturbance, Your Grace. Your entire domain is abuzz about it. It would seem that due to some...thing i know not of, some reason, that the Grand Herald, well, he...ah.."

The tapping stopped, and the underpriest's voice stammered to a halt with it, replaced by the sound of papers being shuffled Sweat began beading his brow as he remained bowed. Not eager to be the bearer of bad news, he dry-swallowed and coughed to clear his throat before resuming-

"Enough" Rania commanded, stopping him before he could begin anew. He snuck a brief peek up at her. Rania was rifling through the stack of messages at the blistering speed that only nobility could regularly afford, and her darkened expression was far less pleasant to behold then when he'd arrived. She took a deep breath, seeming nothing so much as though she were weathering a storm. The moment past in an instant. "Thank you. Now please wait outside."

"B-but Your Grace, Your Holiness!" He pleaded, "The Templars are already forming up outside the Basilica, yo-" but one glance at her and what he'd been about to say died in his throat. He bowed deeply again, this time in recognition of the clear dismissal, backed away, and all but fled the room.

Rania closed her eyes and breathed deeply. She would deal with things in her own time and in her own manner. For now, she poured two cups of coffee and then sat back against the high back of her heavy desk chair across from Divus fine porcelin clinked against bright silver as she added cream and sugar to hers, stirring slowly. She knew she had already taken a good deal of time with Divus, but it had been necessary and she was loath to cut it short now.

So the Oracle stirred her coffee, expression clouded as she pondered deeply, silver and porcelin clinking lightly as she waited for either Divus to awaken, or at least until the coffee cooled...




Roleplay from Antonia Fitz Roberts (3 days, 7 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela

Achelous paused to take this in for a second before yelling up, "Antionia! What in the hells is happening!"

Antonia paused and looked up at the familiar voice of her cousin. ‘Sh*t’ she swore under her breath. ‘Cousin turn around, this shouldn’t involve you’

Turning back to Vahanian, Antonia said quietly ‘If we must kill him, let’s do it quickly, no base butchery’




Roleplay from Goriad II Gabanus (3 days, 7 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients) As Goriad II stood there a spear suddenly flew towards him from the direction of the soldiers, one he but nearly managed to avoid. In a reflex he drew his blades "You will pay for this, mark my words," and with those words he ran towards Vahanian, only to find Antonia and her men to step forward and block his advance. He was surrounded quickly.




Roleplay from Antonia Fitz Roberts (3 days, 7 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients)

Death on the Steps (ooc CONTENT WARNING: GETS A BIT GRAPHIC TOWARDS THE END)

Antonia’s eyes widened as Goriad charged. By Obeah, the fool was still going to try. So be it then. She gave the nod and her ladies stepped forward, surrounding the disgraced Grand Herald. She shouted to him to cease this madness, but he was too far gone. In a frenzy he leapt at one of her soldiers, striking the woman in the arm with one of his blades. That was enough.

It was Eponine who stepped forward first, boarding pike in hand. She thrust forward and struck Goriad in the calf, causing him to cry out. That was enough to give the rest of the Martyrs courage to bring down the ruler of Sacred Obia'Syela. Following Eponine’s example, many women stepped forward with pike and blade, thrusting forward giving Goriad many wounds. And yet he kept on fighting, a swirling frenzy in which he managed to drive one or more soldiers back, only to have another stab him in the side or rear, forcing him to cry out and turn to face his newest assailant. Two of the Martyrs rushed Goriad’s servant, forcing him to his knees. Helpless, he could only watch the death of his master.

Antonia looked on at the scene with a cold indifference. In the end Goriad was nothing more than a man. She looked left to Rosie and right to Rebecca before stepping forward into the circle where Goriad was still lashing out, despite the myriad of wounds from which his blood gushed

‘Surrender, Goriad’ she pleaded with him, ‘End this now. You can still survive. We can put you on a ship to the Shattered Vales and you can live out your last days in peace’

The defiant look in the eyes of the Herald told her all that she needed to know. Drawing a dagger she stepped forward, Rebecca and Rosie right behind her. Goriad thrust at her, but Antonia caught his arm and grasped his wrist with her steel-clad hand. At the same time, she shoved her dagger into the armpit of his other arm, forcing him to drop his first blade. She then squeezed, forcing him to drop his second blade as his bones cracked under her formidable strength. In a one on one fight, he would have beaten her easily, she had no doubt about that. He was a formidable fighter, one of the best she had ever seen. But she had ninety-four women at her back and he had no real chance. Rosie thrust her own dagger into the side of the Herald in the area around his kidney, while Rebecca shoved her own deep down under his shoulder blades. Then Balthasar stepped forward and raked a blade along both of the Herald’s ankles, forcing the mighty warrior at last to his knees. At this Antonia nodded to her companions, who seized his arms keeping him up.

Antonia slowly stepped round so that she was behind Goriad, and seized his head by the hair. She turned his head towards Vahanian and whispered ‘Look now, see. You never even got close’. Keeping his eyes towards his old rival, Antonia placed her dagger at his throat before beginning to saw. There was a grim cracking sound as she cut through flesh, then cartilage and then bone. Finally there was enough give. Placing her foot at the small of Goriad’s back, she pulled her hand back at the same time as she kicked his body forward, tearing the last bit of flesh keeping his head in place. She raised the head high before her ladies, and then threw it towards the steps, where it landed at the feet of Vahanian.

‘Sic semper evello mortem tyrannis’, she muttered to herself, so that only Rosie could hear.




Roleplay from Goriad II Gabanus (3 days, 6 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients) As Antonia and her women finished with the gruesome death of the Grand Herald, his body was ultimately collected by a group of Inquisitors led by a strange looking women. "We will take care of him from this point on," she said with a strange grin upon her face. "It is time Goriad II gets what he deserves," and as they took him away she turned back to Antonia "I will take that prisoner as well, the Grand Inquisitor desires his apprehension."




Roleplay from Antonia Fitz Roberts (3 days, 6 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients)

Antonia, covered in the blood of her former ruler, nodded her assent. ‘As the Inquisition wishes, bring him’ She called out to her soldiers. As Sigmund was dragged forward, one of her women tossed her a leather purse

‘We found this on him, m’lady’ Antonia felt the weight of gold and smiled as she pocketed it

‘I am sure the Inquisition will do whatever is necessary’ Antonia smiled and then turned as she heard a thud. One of her ladies had collapsed. She saw it was the one whom Goriad had cut and she immediately understood.

‘Poison, Goriad was famed for using poison!’ She roared, running to the side of her soldier. She tore off her belt and wrapped it tightly above the elbow of the woman, who was by this point screaming at the agony of the venom in her arm. Antonia snatched up a nearby axe and brought it down, severing the soldier’s arm. She had no idea whether it would save her, but it was worth a try.




Roleplay from Goriad II Gabanus (3 days, 6 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients) The women nodded friendly towards Antonia and walked towards Sigmund. His eyes had turned to hatred and pain, he had known his master since he was but a little boy and when the Women came closer he spit towards her feet. She took his head, and stared into his eyes with her piercing blue eyes. "Gil..." Sigmund said, confused and angry, interrupted halfway through, "Guilty! Yes you are, the Grand Inquisitor wants to have a word with you," and she hit him in the head knocking him unconcious.

The 4 men accompanying her placed the body and the head upon a cart and put Sigmund next to it as they moved away, disappearing into the mountains east of Rines. "Excuse me, but why are we heading towards the mountains?" The women commanded them to stop and sat them on a treebrench to rest. Around the same time Sigmund woke up, tied down, and he opened his eyes just in time to see the women walk behind the 4 men, stabbing them in the neck quickly one by one. "Gi...Gilly, what are you," Sigmund began, still feeling a bit dizzy "You failed," she merely replied as she walked towards Sigmund and cut him loose. Then she turned to the lifeless body of Goriad II, "Hello brother, it's been a long time."




Roleplay from Lucius Archival (3 days, 4 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela "Sir, I have a letter that's arrived directly from Rines."

Lucius waved a hand dismissively. "Not now, Tristan. Can't you see I'm looking over grape yield reports?"

The voice of his devoted manservant persisted.

"Sir, I really think you should read this--"

"By Obeah, what is it?" the courtier snapped; he was busy and had little time for letters he could read later.

"Well... milord... the Grand Herald, he..."

This caught his attention, and he glanced upward, one brow raised in a prompt. "The Grand Herald did what?"

"Well... he's... he's dead, sir."

Lucius could only blink dumbly in response, before noticing with quiet realisation that his ink-pot had spilled all over the parchment.




Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin (3 days, 5 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (35 recipients) Maura sneaked through the southern wildlands, crawling from one underbrush to another. Suddenly a heavy object dropped at her feet, she looked around, weapon at the ready but there was no man and no animal within her view. She reached for the object - it was a rock wrapped in parchment, the letter carried the seal of the Inquisition.

She swiftly unwrapped and read the message, nodding solemnly at the contents. Head inclined, she spoken into the silence around her: "and so falls Goriad the Second, mad legend of House Gabanus, Obeah make good use of his wicked soul."




Roleplay from Lucius Archival (3 days, 2 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Lucius became dimly aware of voices nearby, one of which was urgent and pleading, but most of the words were lost in him. Had he been asleep? The last thing he could recall was mustering his final, herculean efforts to remain awake, apparently to no avail...

"Your Holiness!" issued the desperate voice and in his haze, Lucius began to drift away once again-- wait, Your Holiness!?

Through heavily lidded eyes, he saw the indistinct outline of a woman sit ahead of him. She seemed familiar and with mute observation, he recalled that it was the senior priestess. No, he realised now, not the senior priestess.

Although the grogginess still held him within its bleary grasp, Lucius begin to straighten up, as he began to comprehend the gravity of the situation he had found himself in, without having known it had already begun many hours ago.

"Your... Your Holiness," he began, his voice coarse and rough from his slumber. "I did not realise... did not recognise... forgive me."

His thoughts were a maelstrom, with such a chaos cacophony of assumptions and thoughts clashing at once. Had this been a test? Had he failed? No doubt he would soon find out...




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (3 days, 1 hour ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (34 recipients) A man in the plain robes of a Herald had been lingering in the crowd guarding the Basilica, a deep hood hiding his face. He watched the Grand Gerald's mad charge, and his summary execution. He shook his head in disgust. The beheading was brutal and unnecessary. Men and women of the Inquisition stepped forth and claimed the body, wrapping it with reverence. They carried it a short ways, to the plainly dressed herald. They gently set the body down, and the gathered crowd looked on puzzled as they knelt before the priest.

"Your eminence, we present the Grand Herald."

Adolphus pulled his hood back, and looked down at the body, shaking his head. He looked around at the crowd.

"Depart this place!" He barked. "Whatever madness may have consumed this man in life, he was still a servant of Obeah. He is not a spectacle to entertain the masses. He has suffered quite enough for his crimes. We go now to lay him to rest, as befits his long service. Ring the bells, and don black, for this is a day of mourning. Obeah weeps on this day, for a man who dedicated his life to spreading her word is no more. Forgive him his trespasses against us, and rejoice, for he now can rest."

Adolphus glared at the gathered Templars.

"Disperse!" He growled, and turned to the gathered inquisitors.

"Bring the body." He said, climbing the steps into the Basilica.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (2 days, 17 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (34 recipients) (ooc: edit to fix continuity error)

A man in the plain robes of a Herald had been lingering in the crowd guarding the Basilica, a deep hood hiding his face. He watched the Grand Gerald's mad charge, and his summary execution. He shook his head in disgust. The beheading was brutal and unnecessary. Men and women of the Inquisition stepped forth and claimed the body, wrapping it with reverence. They carried it a short ways, to the plainly dressed herald. He muttered a short prayer, and they carried the body to a cart, and took the body away.


Adolphus pulled his hood back, shaking his head. He looked around at the crowd.

"Depart this place!" He barked. Gasps were heard in the crowd, and whispers of "Its the Grand Inquisitor. He's been here the whole time." Filled the crowd.

"Whatever madness may have consumed this man in life, he was still a servant of Obeah. He is not a spectacle to entertain the masses. He has suffered quite enough for his crimes. We go now to lay him to rest, as befits his long service. Ring the bells, and don black, for this is a day of mourning. Obeah weeps on this day, for a man who dedicated his life to spreading her word is no more. Forgive him his trespasses against us, and rejoice, for he now can rest."

Adolphus glared at the gathered Templars.

"Disperse!" He growled, and gestured for a nearby servant who brought him a horse. He rode hard, after the body. He caught them as they were making their way through the mountains East of Rines.

"Halt!" Adolphus commanded the group, who looked at the hooded priest suspiciously as he dismounted, and approached with his hands held out.

"I have come to return the body to its proper resting place. It belongs in the Basilica." Adolphus spoke calmly.

"You'll not have him!" One of the Inquisitors shouted. Adolphus glared at the man from the depths of his hood, and slowly lowered it.

"Your Eminence!" the Inquisitor exclaimed, surprised. Those gathered dropped to their knees.

"Stand, and turn about. The Oracle is breathing down my neck because of you lot." Adolphus growled.




Roleplay from Janis MacGregor (2 days, 17 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela

t was a quiet day, or perhaps that was imagined. Perhaps not. It was warm, clouds were in the sky, it seemed like a common day. Business as usual.

Business as usual.

Janis penned the parchment before her. Was it a personal letter? An angry letter? An inquiry? Her lady's actions had been mysterious lately. Anger was the usual response. That was what made pure silence even more unsettling.

"...Do... do you think that he is dead?"

"He is dead. I am certain we will receive the missive soon."

Sure enough, it was only an hour or two hence when it came. Killed on the steps to the Oracle's sanctum no less. Still no reaction, still an unsettling quiet and stillness. Not a cold, but a void, a lack, or a bottled-up so well concealed no one could tell, not even Bonita.

"Why though?" Bonita asked, rightly.

Janis simply sighed through her nose.

"It is a question of Vision Bonita. The Oracle leads the realm because of her Vision(s) from Obeah. I am only here because of my Vision of Grand Arches and rebuilt towers of these cities to the South. Magnificent spires which lend themselves to Her Glory. A Bulwark against the coming invasion of daimons, should there be another. This is how I know I follow the righteous path, so long as I continue on that path, and follow Her vision."

"But..."

"His vision, his idea was one born of need and practicality. But here, in this place, there is a Greater Vision. When he could not reconcile this difference, he either went mad from his own pride at being belittled or undermined, even by the Oracle, or perhaps even more likely, succumbed to a secret grief at his disconnection from Obeah. In the end, Bonita, he served himself before he served Sacred Obeah, and so was cast down by his own hubris."

Bonita became silent now, coming to a greater understanding, at least partly. The seed was planted.

Janis still looked stoic but there was an edge of something there now. Not fear, just continued understanding. Would that have been her? Could it have been? She had never gone so far as to try and actually take things into her own hands, and certainly not with sword and steel. She had thought better. Had thought better of him, as well. The only time the idea of opposing the Oracle had made sense is when Lady Rania was serving her own interests. However, unlike Lord Goriad II, those interests had never interfered with Grand Obia'Syela. They had been intertwined from the start.

It was an ongoing problem with no solution. No, not fear. Guilt. That was what she felt. She had had the chance to be there, but she had thought a normal traveling pace would be enough. That should could get there and prevent whatever it was would happen, but it the night, she had received a second vision she had not yet told anyone about. She awoke that previous night in a cold sweat. The vision had shown her- in images and figures- that, Lord Goriad II had strayed too far from the path, that his good intentions would undermine not only the Oracle's vision, but her own as well. Giving away a city? What was he thinking? It was a reminder that no realm of man would truly have Obeah's will within them.

And in that chilly night, stirred from sleep by those visions which already waned from her mind, was when she'd realized that that was her last chance. There would either be no goodbye, or perhaps a less good future for Obia'Syela. If she chose not to ride out, she would not see the man alive ever again. But in her heart, she already knew her choice, she just had to come to terms with it. She rolled over and lay back down.

Which explained her stoicism today. She'd made her choice, just then, in bed the previous night, just as Goriad II had the day before. Gone then went the ideas in her head of coming to help, clad fully in armour, to deter whatever violence he might have tried to do. To overpower him even, if that was what was necessary to keep him alive, not that she was certain she could, though, but she might have tried it. Her second vision, but also her own intuition now let her know he would not stop ultimately, even if he was stopped on that day. He could only be temporarily diverted from his self-destructive path, and in fact, perhaps that is what had been happening all along.

She looked out at the ordinary day now, not as lost in the last night's memories. One of the Great Pillars of Obia'Syela had died, she thought, at least in her own mind. She thought others would not be so kind in their memories of him. He was a driven man. For a while, he drove Obia'Syelas success, and again, as Grand Herald. But in the end, he drove himself into the end of a sword. Perhaps he drove himself mad. She had not decided if she would try to see the place it had happened yet or not when she arrived in Rines. She would, however, always remember the night she could have ridden through to get there in time... Once again she found reason to question.




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (2 days, 16 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian sat in the Oracle's antechamber, he had smoked nearly 1/2 pound of the Vatrona Weed Tobacco in his pouch and yet he felt nothing. The amount of adrenaline pumping through his veins right now was fighting off the haziness of the tobacco, and the adrenaline was winning. A servant came by and asked if he needed anything while he waited. He said in a curt voice "Water and bread." The servant bowed and started to leave. "Wait!" Vahanian shouted, too loudly. "Wine also. Shattered Red." Baldwin was about to say something and any words that were about to emerge died in his throat when he saw the look on his master's face. But his own face was a mask of fear and disappointment.

Moments later the servants returned. Vahanian forewent the bread and water and instead picked up the goblet of wine. He brought the rim of the silver goblet to his nostril and inhaled. The warmth of his breath momentarily fogging on the silver. He breathed deep and was awash with memories, he knew exactly how it would taste, he could almost taste it. His upper lip touched the tip of the goblet, and he was just about to tilt it towards his mouth when he stopped. His eyes opened. The goblet in his right hand, was steady, but his left hand was starting to tremble, not enough to be visible but enough for him to feel it. The two sides of himself at war with each other. The sweet embrace of wine was just a small hand motion away. He slowly lowered the goblet away from his face. "Well played Goriad.." he whispered to himself. He walked over to the open window and poured the entire goblet out. Handing it back to the servant he said quietly.

"Some warm tea, please." The servant took the goblet, bowed and scurried off. Vahanian drained the cup of water in one swig and tore off a piece of bread. Baldwin stood there a small smile on his face. "Rot in hell Baldwin." Vahanian muttered, his mood much sourer, but his mind clear. Baldwin stifled a chuckle and simply stood sentinel for his master.




Roleplay from Divus Lancaster (2 days, 14 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela "What a mess," Divus thought, looking down at the stairs from the Great Basilica of Rines. Templar and Inquisition guards both surrounded the scene, keeping curious onlookers back. Some poor neophyte was sent to try and clean the Grand Herald's blood from the steps, using only a brush and a bucket of water. The young man had been over the few spots where blood was shed numerous times, but the stone was still tinged pink, even in the fading light.

When word spread through the city what the Grand Herald was planning to do, Divus was conflicted. On one hand, the Grand Herald had been a mentor to him, and taught him much. On the other, he had orders from the Grand Inquisitor to ensure that Goriad did not succeed in whatever crazed mission he was planning. So instead, Divus decided to perch himself in the window of a nearby building and watch, waiting for Obeah to give him some sort of sign of what to do.

He saw as the Grand Templar and others formed a line around the entrance. He noticed immediately as the Grand Herald approached the line. Divus' hearing had not returned, but he could read the body language from his vantage point as clearly as if he was in the circle himself. He knew that the Herald would not stop short of an act of Obeah herself. Once more, he knew the resolve of the Grand Templar and those who would defend the Oracle.

At that moment, before someone threw a spear and Goriad drew his blades, Divus had a boyish notion of making his way to the most holy temple and standing side by side with his mentor. Where he still the same boy who arrived in Melegra years ago he most likely would have. But as the Count of Melegra and an agent of the Inquisition, his role in this game was different. The spear he took as a sign from Obeah. Goriad's greatest chance was a surprise attack, to cripple the Grand Templar before others could react and then swim through the chaos. As soon as the Regent was put on the defensive, the matter was decided. Still, Divus felt no joy at the outcome, only some relief that the matter had concluded.

Divus felt the door open in the room, and turned to look as his attendant entered. True to his role in the shadows of the realm, Divus kept a light entourage. Mostly clerks that he left behind when going on a mission, their role to oversee Melegra and other matters of state in his absence. This one, Bolard, carried with him a small case and set it in front of Divus. Bolard bowed and withdrew. The clerks of Melegra knew their Lord's affliction, and did not waste words when they weren't needed.

The unassuming box was marked with Goriad II's seal. Much like the Regent himself, the box's plain trappings were deceptive. The wood of the box was rare, hard as steel, and of very fine craftsmanship. The seal, while at first look was plan, held hidden designs and works in the ridges and shapes. Divus could not help but smile, for it was as if the Veiled Goddess had taken Goriad's spirit and used it as inspiration to fashion the box.

The young man opened the box, careful to ensure it was not trapped or sabotaged in some way. Inside were carefully arranged scrolls of various strength. There more than a few, which suggested this was the Regent's personal cache. Divus had little practice with magic, but he knew enough to carefully close the box and put it aside.

In Sacred Obia'Syela, magic was as close as mortals got to the Veiled Goddess herself. They were the gateway, and the means by which the world would be saved from the next invasion. No doubt agents of the Inquisition would be pouring through Goriad's things, looking for treasures like these. Divus would hold on to them for safe keeping.

He realized that he was still in this room, staring at the neophyte as the poor sod began another round of scrubbing, because he was still looking for a sign of what to do. Would he simply return to the halls of the Inquisition, receive his next mission, and depart? Would he return to Melegra, and ensure that the new harbor was being dug out correctly? Goriad's last act towards Divus helped give him an answer, and direction.

"Bolard, get in here. And bring some paper and ink with you as well," Divus said, turning away from the window.

The clerk rushed in, papers under one arm and an ink and quill in his hands.

"Yes my lord, what do you wish?"

"A letter, in an elegant hand."

"Yes my lord, as you will. Who shall I address it to?"

Divus touched the top of the box, drawing strength from it.

"To the Grand Oracle herself, and prepare a few sheets."




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (2 days, 4 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela "Well, m'Lady, you seem none the worse for wear, after a day in a rogue prison," Bryant smiled as Jessica's carriage dropped her off in Rines, "Tell me, how does a blind, mute woman escape a prison?"

Jessica smiled a weary smile and held out her hand, and began to lead her towards an estate house he had procured for her, before their return to Avengmil.

"M'Lady," Bryant started, taking a more serious tone, "You have been gone but a day, and there has been some serious news within the realm. The Grand Herald is, well, dead."

Jessica stopped. Goriad II dead? Surely Bryant was mistaken. But Bryant had never erred before...

"I am unaware of the details, but the Grand Herald seems to have had a falling out with the Grand Templar and the Oracle," Bryant continued, and Jessica's heart jumped at the mention of the Oracle, "...and he tried to kill Vahanian on the steps of the Silent Basilica. He was cut down there."

Jessica nodded, thinking. At a slight tug of Bryant's hand, she allowed herself to move forward again. She was happy Vahanian was alright. There were too few left who had fought the Daimons during the last invasion. Indeed, their group was growing smaller, as Goriad II was also a veteran of the Invasion. Jessica suddenly felt worn out, and weary. She sighed inaudibly.

Once inside the estate, Bryant quickly fixed a tea and a simple meal of spiced meat and cheese for her. He sat and briefed her on other relevant realm news while she ate and drank. She smiled. She had no physical tongue, yet Bryant never failed to create tasty dishes for her.

Why bother? she wondered to herself as he began going over checklists of inventory, He could just give me unflavored meat, save himself some precious time, and I would never know the difference... yet he is always there. At my side...

She stiffened.

"Something wrong?" Bryant asked.

Jessica thought of everyone who was by her side. Vahanian. Adolphus. The Oracle. Maura. Her dear Astros, who she had not enjoyed the company of in many moons...

Everyone she had fought alongside.

"Oh dear..." Bryant mumbled as he folded his parchment, "I know that silent, sightless look in your eye... What are you thinking...?"

She pointed at herself.

"You?"

She nodded.

"No. It would be impossible."

She shook her head.

Bryant sighed, "Well, finish eating. We will have to make a trip to the Temple, so that you can take the oath of the priests."




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (2 days, 3 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela "Hear ye! Hear ye!" Bryant called to the crowd in the market square, "Hear now, and carry the word!"

Much of the bustle stopped momentarily and looked to Bryant. The market was packed full of traders, mercenaries, lesser nobles, and even some highborn. Word would travel quickly, that much was sure.

"It is with great pleasure that I announce," Bryant shouted to the crowd, "That the Priestess Jessica Gildre, former Grand Inquisitor, visionary and prophetess with the Oracle of The Twin Prephecy, warrior of Obeah, shall hereby be running for the position of Grand Herald!"

The gathered crowd stared silently at him for a moment, then all eyes turned to Jessica, standing quietly next to him. She nodded.

The market erupted into chaos.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (1 day, 5 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Bryant read Jessica the letter from Adolphus, and then looked at her questioningly.

"He knows that you are...?" he trailed off, awkwardly.

Jessica nodded.

Bryant chuckled and read the letter to himself again, "Well then, I like his sense of humor!"

Jessica smiled. So did she.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (13 hours, 19 minutes ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Every noble received the same package containing a bottle of wine and a badge with the words "Adolphus for Grand Inquisitor". In an extreme show of understanding, the letters were raised, so Jessica won't miss out on the fun too.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (13 hours, 17 minutes ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela A second batch of badges is rushed out, updated to reflect the updated campaign, with the words "Adolphus for Grand Herald", letters still raised for Jessica's convienance.




Roleplay from Ferdinand Greybrook (6 hours, 38 minutes ago)

Message sent to everyone in "Heralds of Obeah" (34 recipients) A Waiting Game

Watching the day go by, Ferdinand could not help but feel slightly restless. With the events of the previous days, it was evident that the next week or so would be crucial to the future of the realm and Obeah's mission.

A small skirmish that morning in Ardmore saw minimal casualties. However, this morning was different. Watching Captain Seviana standing side by side his men was envious. The captain quotes that a nobles life is worth multiple times the worth of a single soldier or captain. Yet, in the eyes of Obeah, we carry out her work all the same. He made a note to ensure that he was on the front line and first into the frey at the next opportunity.

To the corner of the small campsite that the Vanguard had set up, there was two soldiers that were rather close together. Ferdinand did not remember their names. However, romance was hard to find on the battlefield, serving day in and day out along with the fear of death. Ferdinand did not want to disturb them. So, adverting his gaze, he glanced through the letters he had received.

A new sect of the Templar order was designed to ensure the destruction of all things Daimon and the protection of all things among the light. To protect humanity from daimon kind where humans such as he holding a shield, to strike back against the Netherworld. The sword to the dagger one could say.

There was a dedication to such a sect. A pathway for Ferdinand to channel his energy into for the greater good. While there had been no ceremony nor acknowledgement, Ferdinand did not need it - he knew his place.

And with that, as a sand would fall through a hourglass, Ferdinand began to study.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (3 days, 1 hour ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vision

Jessica breathed deeply.

"Please relax, Grandmistress," the old woman patted her hand, "The healing magic given to me by the Veiled Goddess does not hurt at all..."

Jessica listened to her rummage around her things, heard bottles clinking and liquids being poured. Bryant had heard of this magic user from a fellow scribe in Rines, and about how she had been performing healing spells upon injured peasants. Now Jessica sat in front of her, waiting to find out if the old woman was truly the real deal.

If she cures me, fine, she thought, and if she fails, she will be put to death as a heretic spreading false faith.

She had been apprehensive at first, but her daily handicaps had pushed her to the point of desperation

"We shall begin. Please relax and breath deeply. Give yourself to Obeah," the woman instructed.

Jessica breathed in through her nose and out through her mouth, and let herself slip into a meditative state. The woman began reciting her incantations and rituals. Jessica felt something, and electric tingle within her stomach. It began to spread, rapidly, until she began to convulse. Shocked, Bryant drew his dagger and took a step towards the old woman, but she held up her hand,

Jessica spasmed on the floor, then cocked her head back and opened her eyes. Brilliant white light blazed out from them, smashing into the ceiling and dissipating within the room. Jessica fell back onto the floor, sweating and trembling. She looked at the old woman.

SHE LOOKED AT THE OLD WOMAN!

She sat bolt upright, shocked. She saw a room, she saw her hands, she saw Bryant standing over her, worried. She saw everything!

She opened her mouth to thank the woman, but no sound came forth. She slumped back again, disappointed.

"I am sorry, Grandmistress," the old woman explained softly, "My magics have the ability to curing ailments, but it cannot grown back entire body parts... I fear there is no magic for that..."

Dismayed as she was, she nodded her head at Bryant.

"For your... services," he held out a gold coin.

"Do me a favor, my child?" she smiled and closed his hand back over the coin, "Donate that for me the next time you are at the Temple of the Heralds. Money holds no value for me. I have everything I need."

Jessica watched her as she gathered her belongings, bowed once more to Jessica, and left the room.

Bryant looked at Jessica. Jessica looked at Bryant.

"I guess this means we will continue your writing lessongs!" Bryant declared triumphantly. Jessica slumped in defeat.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (3 days ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela

The mute Jessica sat in the Office of the Grandmistress, located behind the throne room in Rines, with her Master Scribe Bryant, on her first day as the new ruler of the Sacred Obia'Syela.

A piece of parchment and quill sat on the table in front of her. She scratched out "COWNSIL" with the quill. Bryant leaned down and changed the "W" to a "U" and the "S" to a "C". Jessica nodded, and rewrote the word.

"A wise move, m'Lady," Bryant said as he began to write, and read it aloud.

Grand Inquisitor Adolphus, Grand Templar Vahanian, and Grand Chancellor Jorvik,

The Grandmistress requests your presence in Rines at your earliest conviencence to discuss the future of the Sacred Obia'Syela.

Jessica nodded her approval.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (3 days ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus read the letter and sighed. He had just arrived in Grehk, and was noe headed back to Rines.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (1 day, 22 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus helped himself to a glass of wine, and looked about the office he had quietly let himself into. Being the Grand Inquisitors had its perks, and one of those was coming and going as he pleased. He sat down behind the desk and put his feet up, waiting patiently for the Grandmistress to return. She had summoned the council, and he was the first of the council to arrive, so he might as well enjoy himself.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (1 day, 20 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela

The Council Meeting

Jessica returned to her office after hearing out some of the minor nobility which had come to visit her in the throne hall. Now that she had regained her vision, she was able to leave Bryant to finished the last of the paper work and walk back on her own.

She entered the office, ignored Adolphus lounging in her chair behind her desk, and turned to a small bar built into the wall. She picked up one of her bottles of win, which had been opened.

Cocky bastard... she smirked to herself as she poured herself a glass as well. Finally, she turned to face Adolphus and raised her glass towards him. She walked over to the entrance side of her large desk and set her glass down.

Upon the desk were a few piles of parchment, and a rolled up map. She unrolled the map, placing weights on each corner to keep it flat. It was a map of the continent.

She then sank down into one of the chairs across the desk from Adolphus, sipped her wine, and waited.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (1 day, 19 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus spit out his wine, and scrambled to wipe it up as Jessica sat down. He took his seat, and looked at her, then back at his wine glass, then back at her, and his face split into an uncharacteristic grin.

"Well, at least our men won't have to wear shields on their backs anymore." He joked, referring to her previous attempts to contribute to the war efforts with her bow.




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (1 day, 15 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela (OOC: Please ignore the fact that Vahanian isn't actually in Rines at the moment.. RPs are fun...)

Vahanian had received the council summons. He was intrigued, but there was very little the council could offer that had any interest to him. He had a job to do, and he had a great many plans. He made his way through the basilica towards the Grandmistress's office. He passed by the steps where Goriad II had been slain. There was still a faint hint of blood that had seeped into the marble of the steps. He pushed the images from his mind and made his way into the inner sanctum.

Just as he was about to round the corner and approach the door, he dismissed Baldwin. His captain resisted and said 'My lord, I do not trust this council" Vahnian smiled and and said 'Nor do I, but they will not kill me here. Besides, even if they did I have no doubt that the Oracle would turn this building into a smoldering pile of holy ash and dust. AND it might be worth it just to know that Leatho would come. He would come and he would hunt them all down. That in itself is its own form of justice."

He gave Baldwin a smile and a pat on the shoulder, before entering the chamber. The Grandmistress and Adolphus were already there, seated and drinking wine. Vahanian pulled his pipe from his cloak and lit it. The sweet pungent smell of Ardmore's finest tobacco soon filled the air around him. Vahanian stood off to the side, leaning against the wall as he listened to the two councilors speak.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (1 day, 12 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Jessica smirked at Adolphus' jab and took another drink of her wine.

She heard the door, and then she smelled the sweet, delicious scent of pipe tobacco. She stood and turned towards the entrance to the room, and her face broke another smile. Vahanian stood just inside, puffing his pipe to a glowing ember. She couldn't remember how long it had been since she had seen Vahanian. Emotion overwhelmed her, and she strode across the room to embrace him in a hug. She also couldn't remember the last time she hugged someone. Surely before her time in Gothica.

She stepped back, embarrassed, and clapped the man on the shoulders affectionately. As always, Vahanian gleamed in a semblance of the perfect Templar, righteous and proud.

She motioned him into the room, and motioned towards the bar at the wall inquisitively.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (1 day, 11 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus grinned and winked in response to Jessica's smirk. The door opened, and Adolphus noted the Grand Templar. The smell of tobacco wafted in, and Adolphus leaned back in Jessica's chair. Adolphus's grin vanished.

"So nice of you to join us Grand Templar, and not even lurking in the shadows this time." Adolphus's gravelly voice rang out. Adolphus's piercing green eyes sized up the Grand Templar, gauging his every move, his demeanor similar to that of a cat ready to pounce.

"Now, we just need the Grand Chancellor to arrive..."




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (1 day, 1 hour ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian smiled warmly at Jessica, returning her embrace, she was a curious person, but he'd always liked her. She'd always been fair with him and he respected her.

He politely declined her silent invitation to the bar, he suddenly realized how few people new that he didn't drink alcohol anymore..

He moved further into the room and heard the gravelly voice of Adolphus ring out. He stared back across the room at the man, matching his green eyed stare with his own hazel eyes. He made a mental note and ignored the jab about lurking in the shadows. Not quite sure what the spider of a man meant by it. Vahanian smiled at Adolphus and said "Sorry, didn't realize who would be here representing your office, seeing as its changed hands more often than coin in a whore house."

Vahanian leaned against the wall in such a way that his cloak covered his arms when he wasn't holding his pipe. With arms covered beneath his cloak, he gripped the hilt of his favorite throwing dagger, mentally willing Adolphus to do something stupid.

He turned his head slightly away from Adolphus and said to Jessica "Allow me to offer you a formal congratulations on your election, my friend, you were the top contender and only choice among the Templar order." Vahanian let his passive aggressive insult hang in the air a moment, knowing full well that Adolphus had also run for the office, before continuing and saying.

"I hope your reign is long and fruitful, and look forward to collaboratively working towards a better Sacred Realm"




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (23 hours, 58 minutes ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Adolphus smirked at Vahanian's attempts to insult him.

"Hopefully this time the Templars can meet here with our ruler and... I don't know, not decapitate them." Adolphus said almost absent mindedly.




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (23 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian had confirmed his suspicions.. He did not like Adolphus.

"Oh don't worry, Lady Jessica has nothing to fear from the Templars.. She seems to be the one of the few whose held your office and lived.. a list that is oddly short.. So she must have done something right."

Vahanian puffed on his pipe once more and shot a glance over to Jessica to see what her reaction to the banter was.




Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin (1 day, 23 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela

Maura entered the familiar space of Rines' academy, her partner for today's training match was already waiting for her. Count Alacrix looked roughly the same age as her and carried an aura of mixed freshness and experience. Maura recalled the first time they met, it was at the celebration in Gildre estate, though she didn't remember much from that night. Young Count didn't hide the excitement for the upcoming match. Maura hid it very well. After picking a dull, training version of her scimtar from the weapon stand she took place in front of her contender and stood there, her entire frame like a statue inclined at the odd angle.

"Are you ready?" - she asked Alacrix, and he nodded in confirmation. Unbeknownst to him it was a lie... she asked this very same question to every knight she trained with and everyone provided her with the same answer, but so far none of them was truly ready. She smirked at the thought, right before breaking her stance of a statue into a storm of rapid motion. Steel cut through the air with intimidating whistle, right up until it found another piece of steel to attack, block and parry.

Count Alacrix was not intimidated by his opponent, in fact his approach almost matched Maura's in aggressiveness. For a couple of minutes the fight was a true spectacle, both fighters fought with all they had in display of flesh and steel moving at breathtaking speeds. But then more aggressive approach of the Marshal started to overwhelm Alacrix and soon he was overran, struggling to check each swing with a proper block. Maura feinted high from the right and used her left hand to change the direction of her sword faster than any other technique could allow, swinging at Alacrix' grip on the handle of his sword, and slashing his unprotected wrist. The sword escaped his grasp and fell to the floor with a clang. Maura dropped her own weapon and rushed to her training partner:

"You should be allright" - she said - "the blade was dull..." - and then she remembered the faint cracking sound, the force of her final blow might've caused a fracture. She called for a healer and tended to the wound herself, awaiting healer's arrival. She felt for bone displacement and glad that she found none she started to rigidify the hand and caught herself blowing softly at the sore hand. Upon realization of what she's doing she stepped back and thrown - "you should be fine!" - before departing swiftly to hide her fluster.




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (7 days, 14 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela (OOC GRAPHIC CONTENT)

"This way, your eminence." the haggard Grehkian man mumbled, gesturing towards a run down home, and began muttering a prayer, looking at the ground. He ran his hand across his face, making the sign of the veil, hoping to ward off evil spirits.

"The family?" Adolphus inquired.

"What's left of them is inside. A neighbor came by to check. You have to understand, we have to look out for each other and avoid monsters, wights and bandits. We're pretty close... Whatever did this... It isn't the normal horror we face here."

Adolphus nodded.

"Whatever happens, do not enter the house." He growled, and walked into the house. Adolphus wrinkled his nose. The smell of sulfur was thick in the air, and despite the warmth of the day, the interior was cold. The floorboards creaked beneath his feet, and he climbed a flight of stairs, only to be met with a medley of new smells. The acrid, coppery smell of blood and the sickening smell of burnt meat.

Adolphus pushed in a door, and shook his head. The room could have passed for a charnel house. A burnt corpse was suspended from a brass chandelier in the middle of the room, and limbs were scattered about. A small arm still clutched a doll, gripped eternally in rigor mortis. A cold breeze swept through the room, and Adolphus snarled. His snarl was met with disembodied laughter.

"The sacred Sign of the Veil commands you, as does also the power of the mysteries of the Obian Faith! The glorious Mother of the Church, the Oracle Rania, commands you; she who by her humility and from the first moment of her self sacrifice and resurrection crushed your proud head! I drive thee out, spawn of the Netherworld, son of Overlord, child of Arcane! The blood of the Martyrs and the pious intercession of all the Saints command you!" Adolphus prayed out loud, his voice booming and commanding, even as the wind in the room picked up. Adolphus flung a handful of salt into the air as he finished the prayer, and the wind abruptly died.

"Daimons..." he muttered, and placed a crystal globe on the floor. He drew a circle in salt about the globe, and then placed a burning candle on the northernmost and southernmost points of the circle. He then placed three iron spheres in the salt, forming a triangle. Encompassing the circle he drew a five pointed star in wax, and to complete the ritual, 8 silver coins were arranged in a circle around the star.

The seal was almost complete. Adolphus moved to stand in the circle, and put his hands together. The fireplace erupted into flames, and a loud shrieking filled the air. Wind blasted the room, but stopped at the borders of the seal he had drawn.

"Thus, cursed dragon, and you, diabolical legions, we adjure you by the Veiled Goddess, by the true Goddess, by the holy Goddess, by the Oracle who so loved the world that she gave up her life, that every soul believing in Her might not perish but have life everlasting! Stop deceiving human creatures and pouring out to them the poison of eternal damnation; stop harming the Church and hindering her liberty.

Begone, Daimon, inventor and master of all deceit, enemy of man's salvation! I cast thee out!"

He bellowed the last sentence, struggling to be heard over the roar of the wind and fire. A load thunderclap echoed in the room, and the room went silent. Smoke and the smell of brimstone filled the room.

Adolphus walked out the front door, and a small crowd had gathered, kneeling and praying. New converts, one and all.

"Bury the bodies. I will give them their last rites and consecrate the graves after a short rest." Adolphus spoke softly to the crowd, attempting to hide his weariness from the assembled converts.

"Obeah bless and keep you all."




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (6 days, 20 hours ago)

Message sent to all full members of "Heralds of Obeah" (23 recipients) Bryant, Jessica's scribe, and Jessica leaned over a desk, staring at a map of the continent. Jessica tapped her finger on the Shattered Vales and made a prayer symbol. Bryant nodded.

"A missionary mission is needed, isn't it Grandmistress?" Jessica nodded. They owed spiritual stability to their friends. "I shall write up a request to the Heralds seeking someone to carry the word of Obeah to the Vales."

Jessica sipped some wine as Bryant wrote, reading aloud:

Heralds of Obeah,

Her Excellency, the Grandmistress Jessica Gildre, requires one Priest or Priestess of the Veiled Goddess' devoted to undertake a mission to the Shattered Vales to spread the word of Obeah. The Grandmistress shall expedite any volunteer to Ambassador of the Sacred Obia'Syela.

Bryant, Master Scribe of Grandmistress Jessica Gildre, Care of, Jessica Gildre, Grandmistress of the Sacred Obia'Syela




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (6 days, 16 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian lit his pipe and looked out over the town that his men were currently surging through, offering free food and drink to the locals, exchanging tales of the benefits of flying the Sacred Banner.

Baldwin approached, bowed his head and said "My lord, The Grand Inquisitor has issued another fine, this time against Lady Maura. He claims she was insubordinate." Vahanian rolled his eyes. "Interesting, seeing as she reports to me, and her actions have been anything but insubordinate. She rivals Boltgan for effectiveness as a Marshal of the army." He exhaled a plume of smoke and said "Perhaps this boy's time at playing Judge is at an end. I have no doubt he will hinder any movement Maura and I make to re-forge the Templar's and the Inquisition."

Vahanian's hand absently rested on the hilt of his sword.

"What will happen to him my lord?" Baldwin asked. Vahanian responded "If we're lucky I'll have him killed." there was a hint of sarcasm, but Baldwin was never one who was good at reading into sarcasm.

"Really?"

Vahanian chuckled and said "I'm not sure.. but if I can have Goriad II killed, I can have anyone killed. Goriad II was far smarter and much more dangerous than Adolphus.." Vahanian sighed and said "Send word to Maura, she and I have much to discuss."




Roleplay from Adolphus Schwarzherzig (6 days, 15 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela The young boy listened, and shook his head. He had marched with the Army to Ruefillo as a squire, but most of his duties had been relegated to carrying messages. It was after delivering such a message that he overheard the Grand Templar, having a rather treasonous exchange. He was shocked someone would do so out in the open while watching the troops. The boy went about his business and soon found his way just out of camp with a caged raven. He attached the message to the ravens foot, and sent it on its way. The boy then returned to his bussiness.

Meanwhile in nearby Grehk Adolphus read a note with interest.

"It seems that fate has conspired to delay my state visits again." Adolphus grumbled.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (6 days, 14 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Jessica rubbed her temples as Bryant continued to read the reports, protests, and correspondence regarding The Adolphus Situation.

Anger filled her breast. He has fought for the realm? she thought heatedly, thus he may lash out like a child on a powertrip? Damned that fool! I have fought Daimon legions, been tortured by a Daimon Prince, had my tongue removed by Daimon fanatics, and returned from the brink to serve the Veiled Goddess. He has done battle with a few rabbles of beasts and monsters? He must reevaluate all this "hard work" he has done...

"Grandmistress..." Bryant placed a hand on her shoulder, breaking her thoughts. She looked down at bloodied palms, where her nails had cut from clenching her fists, "We need to draft an official statement..."

Jessica nodded, and Bryant brought her a quill and some parchment.

It was time for Jessica to showcase to the realm the hard work she had made in learning to read and write...




Roleplay from Radzik Gottfried (6 days, 12 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela The rabid baboon went of a strike, He rabidly toiled while rubbing his crack,

So pleasant it was, That he claimed it a cause,

Now all city went nuts, And you could smell bile and guts,

Its time to clean up, Let the shwine relax,

I would do so myself, But the shpooper is safe.




Roleplay from Alacrix Galar (6 days, 10 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela "You have a dislocated shoulder." The bored tone of the medic told Alacrix's that the man had seen worse wounds today and was not impressed.

"I know, this is not the first time that I have had it popped in place."

Over the years Alacrix had developed a technique to ignore the pain. He started shutting down his mental when he heard some call his name. Absentmindedly he called out to the courier.

"Count Alacrix you have many messages." Alacrix waved the man to bring him his mail. What Alacrix was unprepared for was the boxes of letters he had received.

"Are all thes- Daimon Sh*t!!!" While distracted the medic saw his opportunity to pop Alacrix's shoulder in place. With his most darkest look to the medic, he turned back to the courier. "Good job. You can go."

Hours later, Alacrix mouth had hit the floor. Adolphus had gone to far. Alacrix's could see sort of Adolphus's point fining Marshal Renodin. But to call The Oracle by her first name alone! Then to fine her! Then to commit blasphemy by banning the practice of magic which is the cornerstone of the faith! The fury he felt overwhelmed him. The bellow that was unleashed from him echoed through the camp. He could hear some of his men cry out in alarm. Well sh*t, He did not mean to disturb his men. Well I guess I should calm them down.




Roleplay from Jessica Gildre (4 days ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela

Prisoner Talk (25 minutes ago) Your guards report that a prisoner in your dungeon has been heard yelling these words:

Honestly, Grand Inquisitor, I am sorry for getting drunk during the party in your Estate. I sincerely thought you got over it.

Jessica smiled at the inside joke of which the guards knew nothing about, but she nodded to them, and they returned back down to the dungeon to release her.




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (3 days, 20 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian sat in his command tent as his unit made camp for the night. Baldwin sat opposite him, Baldwin had poured himself a goblet of wine, and Vahanian a cup of tea. The two men shared a pouch of tobacco. A handmade chess board sat between them.

The pieces had been placed across the board, though the two men were not playing a game against one another. Vahanian moved a white pawn and captured a black bishop. The board showed 14 black pieces and 16 white. Vahanian muttered to himself as he toyed with the black king. "The king had been captured but the game goes on.." He moved a black pawn two spaces forward, advancing it towards the back rank of the white pieces. "Another pawn steps forward in hopes of elevating themselves to a higher rank.." He continued to mutter.

He puffed on his pipe before looking over at Baldwin and saying "I will dismantle them, piece by piece, brick by brick, and coin by coin, until I have what I want. I learned long ago, that brute force is not always the best course of attack. The gambit can also be equally effective. Sacrifice a pawn so that a knight may gain an advantage. Leave a bishop hanging so that a rook might capture a more valuable piece.." Baldwin wasn't entirely sure if his master was referring to chess or life.. Vahanian had been in a sour mood ever since Adolphus had tried to disrupt the Obian society and started spouting heretical nonsense.

He looked up and said "Send word to the Oracle, we must speak with her when we arrive in Rines."




Roleplay from Apostate (3 days, 7 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in the region Rines (19 recipients) It was with extreme reluctance that Apostate gave the stones to his contact. They sang to him, humming promises of the Daimons’ return. He wanted to be the one to tear the veil and bring them forth in multitudes.

Still, he gave them away. Heaviness in his heart at his failure.

As instructed, he stalked off to the Grand Temple.




Roleplay from Mariana le Craint (3 days, 3 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela As the sun rose over the ocean bay, the sails were raised and the anchor was dropped as the Harmony came into the bay of the Rines. The cold, crisp air came across the deck of the ship. The deck hands began unloading crates and boxes from the hold of the ship, rushing around ignoring the movement of passersby.

Coming up from the hold, followed by an older gentleman, came a tall slender woman wearing a long silken dress adorned with simple leather armor in the form of shoulder pads and gauntlets. As she walked along the wooden deck, the sound of her reinforced boots rasping against the creaking deck grabbed the attention of all of those around. The woman headed towards the port side of the deck to look over the city. As the approached, the strength of the ocean breeze overcame her appearance, her long silver air was blown by the wind as the smell of the port side activity overcame her.

"Damian, it seems we have arrived finally. Just as I was getting used to traveling by boat. The estate we were offered is nearby, let us make our way there as soon as we can. I wish to explore this city when we have the chance."

The older gentleman approached behind the lady, holding our a simple Ivory brush ingrained with silver.

"Yes, it is but a short journey. You have been granted the estate within this port we have landed in. I would recommend visiting the temple at your first opportunity. You had said yourself that you had become interested in the Heralds of Obeah, one of the reasons you choose to come to Obia'Syela."

Taking the hairbrush, recovering the mess that had been created by the sea breeze.

"You are right, once we have settled in the home, we shall visit one of the temples nearby. On my travels, I have heard about Obia'Syela and its religion and wished to see it for myself. I have sent a letter of introduction ahead of my arrival and I hope that is arrived safely. For now, let us make our way."

Stepping off the boat down the gangplank, a small pile of trunks made up the very few possessions of Mariana. Damian went further down to seek out a cart in order to move the luggage. Mariana followed shortly, now equipped with a shortsword at her waist and her pine bow at her back. She had survived her travels with these objects and will continue to serve using them all the same. Finally she took her first steps of the dock in the realm of Obia'Syela.




Roleplay from Ulrika (2 days, 22 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in the region Rines (20 recipients) Ulrika at last accepted the final stones and set off for the Temple. She was ready to do the Oracle's bidding, whatever it might be




Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin (2 days, 21 hours ago)

Message sent to everyone in the region Rines (20 recipients) Maura arrived at the Grand Temple to the sight of two of her agents sitting on a bench by the temple's wall.

"What are you doing here? Her Holiness prepared quarters for you in Basilica, not Grand Temple. You will eat and sleep like nobles today. Follow me." - she beckoned them to follow and as they did she looked pointedly at Ulrika - "Do you have it?" - not uttering the name of the objects of interest.




Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (2 days, 20 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Obia'Syela Vahanian had what he needed, he tucked the scroll into his breast pocket, it had been stamped with the seal of Grand Inquisitor and Grandmistress alike. He turned his horse around and spurred it to where Baldwin was riding.

"Send word at once to the captain of Rines city guard. He is to quarantine and seal off Adolphus's estate, nobody in or out until I arrive. If anyone, noble or commoner attempts to interfere have them arrested and detained." Baldwin nodded and rode off to find a scribe. Moments later a raven was soaring through the air towards the city.

Vahanian spurred his horse forward once more and ordered his column of men to increase their pace. He had business in Rines.