JeVondair Family/ Stheno Eastersand

Passed away on 4/24/1019 at the age of 29 with no confirmed heirs. Succeeded by her mother, Rania Eastersand (61).

A letter of Recommendation

Letter from Ehrich Weisz

(Personal message to Stheno) - 3 days, 16 hours, 35 minutes ago Dear Stheno,

Indeed you are remembered as a ward of the great Kethan D'Espana, a dearly missed friend.

Alas, as I was judge only so briefly I do not have a contact for this judge. By all means show him the following Imperial endorsement stamped with our seal. When you find your way free seek me out and perhaps you could undertake a task for me that may benefit Obia'Syela.

The Imperial throne recognises the adventurer Stheno as a valued agent, a warrior against rogue forces and of proven good character. If this adventurer can be allowed to conduct her business unimpeded it would be personally appreciated.

Faithfully yours,

– Ehrich Weisz Emperor of Shattered Vales Royal of Shattered Vales Duke of Iato Margrave of Iato

Recomendations

Given From:

• Count Kethan D'Espana 2019-04-17
• Duke Erheas D`Este 2019-02-08
• Duke Vahanian Blint 2019-01-28
• Noble Jessica Gildre 2019-02-07
• Praetor Arterius Kye 2019-01-23

A woman Grown [June 1, 1108]

On her 14th birthday, year 1108, Stheno ran away from home. To any who did not look close, she lied and said she was 20 on her way to her fiance. Those who were quick enough to see through the farce were not fleet enough to catch the lithe young woman, and before anyone in Rines new better, she was gone. With only what she could carry, she resolved to make her way to the Shattered Vales, among whos nobility she recalled dear friends and protectors from her childhood.

Why she ran, or what, perhaps, she was running from, Stheno never revealed.

New beginnings

Roleplay from Rania Eastersand JeVondair all nobles of Shattered Vales

Rania arrived in Creasur on foot. Her journey from Reeds would have been a nightmare for anyone after she was captured by Daimons of the Netherworld. For 7 days she'd waited, rocking back and forth, arms cradled protectively over her pregnant stomach as her ears were assaulted by the screams of noblemen being tortured...or worse. Prison Grapevine (3 days, 2 hours ago) A fellow prisoner has yelled the following words through the dungeon: Screw all you Daimonic bastards! His screams had been the worst... Her escape had not been easy, but even Daimons make mistakes. Her banishment from Nothoi meant she could not return there, and her pregnancy kept her from pursuing Valhael Mayhem, her sister's murderer, to Spearhold. No, she would go south where her family had friends and a home. Through some effort, she'd managed to convince a petty scribe send letters of introduction for her, lacking as she was in pens, parchment, and couriers. Now she sat on the porch outside the Cracked Stone, a cheap inn just within the city walls where rented room, contemplating her failures, and her future... Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (24 days, 16 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales (Disclaimer: Reply to JeVondair's RP) Kethan walked slowly down the walls, a little tired after nearly half a day of attentive surveillance of the surrounding lands. Most of the time, his eyes wandered off to Ypsilanti, the land that he was bound to protect as per his oath and holding of his estate. It made him sick that it was now suffering the wrath of the Daimons, which even being so weak that they could hardly wound a soldier, were found in such overwhelming numbers that it was impossible to defeat them by sheer force. He caressed the few parchments that he kept right under his robes, kept in scroll holders to better protect them. He had thought many times to release their magic on the darkspawn creatures, but he had not been told to do so, and thus he kept them still sealed. Soon, he promised himself. Soon enough. It was then when he saw the Cracked Stone, and memories of earlier times started flooding his mind to the point that he almost missed the woman sitting outside. Almost.

Roleplay from Rania Eastersand JeVondair (24 days, 15 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales As she had been noticed, so to did Rania notice the young scout returning from his duties. Her eyes narrowed as she studied him, wrapping her arms over her pregnancy protectively. This one wasn't a mere scout, but a nobleman, she could see it in his bearing.

She nodded cordially, but made no effort to get up from her rocking chair. Her skin was dusky as a sunset, and her hair was such a deep brown it was almost black. Unlike most of her kin, however, she eschewed the intricate braids denoting clan and rank, preferring instead to let her tresses fall freely. Despite age and her pregnancy, there was not a gram of fat on her. Her wiry frame exuded a certain solidness, though little of it was exposed in her evening robes. Instead of the high cheek bones and a rounded chin framing dark, almondine eyes, Rania's new face had the bone structure of a Nothoian with the coloring of a sandborn. Her eyes were round now, still dark, but with a solid ring of gold outlining the iris. A feature as unsettling as it was enchanting. She looked very different from her twin sister Mavia. At least she did NOW, anyway, after what she'd gone through in Nothoi...A familiar rage welled up inside her at the thought, but she swiftly quelled it as she watched the young man. Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (22 days, 21 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Well, now that was an intriguing woman. He was not really sure about her possible origin, as he could recognize several distinct features in her facial and corporal frame. He did not know why, but it almost seemed... unnatural. He could not neglect her eyes, and his steps were less wide and confident as he slightly changed his course to meet the strange woman. Was she pregnant, by any chance? Who was she, and what was she doing here? Unaware of her sudden burst of rage and her efforts to quell it, he made a simple nod, and observed her for a second more before speaking to her, a hidden note of inquisitiveness and caution in his voice. - "Excuse me, miss, but I have not been able to resist my curiosity since I spotted you from the walls. I am Kethan D'Espana, Knight of Ypsilanti and a loyal nobleman of the Empire of the Shattered Vales . May I know your name?"

"I am Rania Eastersand JeVondair, formerly of Nothoi and Luria Nova, blood of the Desert of Silhouettes in D'Hara and lately a guest of the Netherworld's prisons." She extended her hand for him to kiss, but did not get up. She was indeed pregnant, although her clothing hid just how far along she might be." "To find a D'Espana here is...a great fortune to me, especially now while I am so..."she looked down at her belly, "...so vulnerable." She allowed some of the sadness and rage that stormed within her to inflect her voice. At a glance it was clear that Rania was accustomed to an active lifestyle. And though know weapons were visible on her person, the calluses on her could only have belonged to a warrior of great skill. He brushed his lips past her knuckles in the courtly manner he'd grown up learning as she composed herself and continued. "I knew your sire, Sir. Lord Ghaundan of D'Hara, who has long been the foremost ally of my family. It is a great relief to meet one of his own blood so far away from home. Kethan listened, but his mind whirled. He had known Rania's purpose on this continent, to avenge the death of her sister Mavia who had been his Imperatrix before the fall of the Fourth Vale. He had known that the two were twins, but Rania's face was different, and her eyes even more so. There was something...otherworldy about them...and her. He quickly looked aside lest he be scolded for staring...

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (20 days, 14 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Kethan listened, but his mind whirled. He had known Rania's purpose on this continent, to avenge the death of her sister Mavia who had been his Imperatrix before the fall of the Fourth Vale. He had known that the two were twins, but Rania's face was different, and her eyes even more so. There was something... otherworldy about them... and her. He quickly looked aside lest he be scolded for staring... Had she said that she had been a guest to the Netherworld's prison? Perhaps some of the evil magic of the godforsaken place had tainted her. He allowed himself yet another quick and discrete look to her swollen belly, trying to no avail to estimate how much time had gone by since she became pregnant. Perhaps... the baby... could have been... He slowly shook his head in disbelief. Better not to think about that, at least not now. "My dearest and most sincere condolences for the loss of your sister, Imperatrix Mavia Eastersand JeVondair." - he said in a low, quiet tone. - "She was the first in sheltering and welcoming us when we fleed to Ete City searching for refuge and a home. I am indeed far away from home, as you are. Perhaps in a better time and place we can get each other updated on our whys and hows. But for now..." - he suddenly kneeled in front of her, taking her hand again in a completely courteous gesture - "...please let me honour the memory of my father, Lord Ghaundan D'Espana of D'Hara. I vow to protect you in this time of need and vulnerability until you release me of this oath or your husband comes to takeover his duty, which I temporarily accept as mine as per the strong bond between our families."

He knew she would not like it, a woman of action as she obviously was being protected by a complete stranger, but he also hoped that she would act in the interest of her baby and accept it for the time being. She was right: she was too vulnerable now, and this was not a proper time to show any weakness at all. So there he stood, his hazel eyes respectfully searching hers, waiting for her answer. Rania, who had long ago mastered her facial expressions, nevertheless allowed her surprise to show. She was a woman who rarely smiled, but the corners of her mouth ticked up and might have blossomed further if not for what happened next...

"Yes-" she said, reaching out to grip his hand. "-I-" but her expression suddenly changed from pleased to pained as she snatched her hand back, doubling over and groaning as she wrapped her arms around her pregnant form. After a moment, the cramps must have subsided. Although her breathing was ragged, she was able to lift her eyes again...those strange, strange eyes. She smiled and started to open her mouth as though to offer an explanation or apology that would never come. Kethan, looking right at her face, watched as her the gold ringing her irises flared, suddenly expanding to encompass both of her eyes fully like orbs of sunlight before seeming to role up and back. Rania fainted. Her body going limp as she fell. Kethan, with all the speed of youth, caught her as she fell. The Inn's clientel, along with the innkeeper, rushed on to the porch, their alarm clearly surprising Kethan whose expression asked the question before his mouth could.

"We saw a bright flash, milord..." The innkeeper stammered. "Aye" said one of the patrons, "We all did!" It was at that moment that Kethan realized he hadn't imagined what he'd seen. Looking around, he saw onlookers clear across the street gazing around with the same confused look the innkeeper had. Many had seen the golden light. And in his arms he held the comatose source...

But it wasn't the time to think and meditate, but to act. Empowering himself with his nobility, he fiercely looked to everyone surrounding him with his hazel eyes, as if challenging them to dare to question his orders. Fortunately enough, they knew better than to confront an armed nobleman that could have his soldiers just at the other side of the corner. Real good news for Kethan and Rania, as he had ordered them to wait for him at the Margrave's palace. Promptly barking a couple orders, a few lads that were present at the inn were very soon running in front of Kethan, opening him the way to carry Rania to the palace and the healers that were inside. Some very tiring minutes later, an exhausted Kethan arrived to his destination, still carrying the young lady and sweating buckets because of the effort. The lads had already alerted the palace guard, and a few of them were waiting just at the entrance of the palace. His face completely red, he shouted with his last tiny bits of breath: - Take me to the physician right now! And dispatch a courier to Margrave Rythan Songslayer, and tell him that her Dame Rania Eastersand JeVondair is... is... in trouble! Don't look at me like that, do what I've ordered you, and do it NOW!

Notably shocked and confused, the captain of the palace guard swiftly dispatched a courier to his Margrave and one of his soldiers to guide Kethan to the physician's ward. He was not going to leave her in the hands of a random nobody, so he rushed after the guard to put her in expert hands as soon as humanly possible. A breathless prayer to the Armored Gods echoed as they made their way, Kethan too worried and tired to think about the previous incident for now.

Lord's Quarters Estate - Home of Margrave Rythan

Magic in the Air (just in) The ravens fly and the sky is changed. Someone has cast a magic spell in the vicinity.

Rania stirs, but does not wake, her pregnant form shifting on the bed Kethan laid her upon. But even that slight movement is a drastic change from the stillness that fell upon her in the inn. Muscle groups tense, sweat beads her brow, but she does not wake.

Roleplay from Rythan Songslayer (12 days, 19 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Unsettling times had befallen Creasur of late, beyond that of the unrelenting tide of Netherworld fowl.

Concern grew over the strange magical aura, for Rythan new its power, not long past had all his bones been broken and he had been left for dead by one of those beasts... They had to be stopped.

He grew worried for Rania who lay still in her chambers, very pregnant, very.

Word spread that in unexplanably large number of births had occured in Creasur which seemed unprobably due to the near starvation that haunted the lands... perhaps these new children were a blessing from some unknown source? Is Rania's unborn child a part of this?

Who knows... but as Rythan looked out of his chamber window he saw another magical scroll be cast and light up the night sky...

Strange times indeed... but this is surely the beginning not the end...

Population Boom in Creasur (1 hour, 55 minutes ago) Your seneschal brings you word of an inexplicable population boom in Creasur. 1003 babies have apparently been born recently.

Magic in the Air (1 hour, 55 minutes ago) The ravens fly and the sky is changed. Someone has cast a magic spell in the vicinity.

Light from Night

Roleplay from Rania Eastersand JeVondair (3 hours, 30 minutes ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales

A week had past with Rania lying, unmoving, in Lord Rythan's manor. A pair of midwives, themselves a mother and daughter, kept a steady watch over her, worried that her pregnancy might be in danger. Every so often, someone would peak in and check on her. Nurses changed her sheets and bathed her. Healers came and went, flustered. Sir Kethan would stop by every once and a while when his duties allowed, but for the most part the insensate mother-to-be was left alone.

It was during the younger midwife's shift that Rania went into labor.

The nights had been quiet since Aletha and her demons had left Creasur; it was wildly known that the daimons had been steadily loosing their power. Some even whispered of an end to the invasion. In her absence, the Empress and most of her men-at-arms had also left the city walls to recapture lost territory. The city was emptier than it had been in months. Most of the castle had gone to bed. Unbeknownst to the people of the Shattered Vale, Aletha lay dying beneath the walls of Reeds. And it was in that rare silence that Rania stirred.

It was just a tremor at first, the younger midwife, Pella, dozing at Rania's bedside, was not even roused to wakefulness until the dame's low moaning rose in pitch and vigor. Pella gazed about sleepily, accustomed to Rania's silence. Her bewilderment did not last for long, however, and she determined in short order that although Rania herself still slept, her child had awakened in her womb. "IT'S HAPPENING!" She yelled to summon help as she grasped Rania's hand. Pella looked at Rania, whose expression fluctuated with pain, and wondered briefly what dream or fever could keep a mother from missing the birth of her own child.

A full day passed as Rania's child struggled without the help of it's mother. Rania looked exhausted, her sheets soaked with sweat, and STILL she had not awakened. The staff were little better, and weighed down by helplessness. Pella's mother Escaba, the senior midwife in Creasur, had arrived within hours and stayed throughout. "There is nothing we can do but wait," She'd said heavily. "If we cut, we'll loose the mother, sure as sunrise. If we try to force the child, it will get stuck without the mother to push."

"But mother," Pella interjected, "if we do nothing for too long, the infant is at risk of choking itself with it's own cord."

"I know, child, I know." Escaba patted her daughters hand, clearly worried. Even she had never seen anything quite like this.

And then the ground shook.

It was a gentle thing at first. Barely perceptible. Not unlike how Rania had slipped into labor. On the other side of the world, a wrath like the Hammer of a fiery titan split the South Island asunder. Thousands were suffering, dying, screaming. And in the moment of their greatest suffering, as know one in Creasur could possibly know, Rania screamed with them. Blazing into wakefulness and in a world of pain. Her mouth was dry, her throat was hoarse. She was weak and clammy and hot all at once. As if sensing it's mother's wakefulness, the child seemed to redouble its efforts to be brought into the world. Hands grasped at Rania's wrists, pinning her down. She fought, weakly, but relentlessly.

"Push"

She didn't know who was speaking, and there was a sort of animal terror in her otherworldly black/gold eyes as they darted about.

"Push, Dame Rania!"

Rania focused on Escaba. The senior midwife's voice was calm, but commanding. She was a stranger to Rania, however, who did not seem to know where she was or what was happening.

"Breath, Dame Rania! Your baby is wanting to be born! Calm!"

But Rania was not listening. She was already withdrawing back into herself, back into the dream. Reaching for the Deep Song that had become the core of her since the day she'd died.

Rania

She heard her name and new she was close, in her mind, she hummed in tune with the Song, following it to its source, away from the world again.

"Mamma-" Pella yelled as Rania's eyes rolled back into her head. "We're loosing her again!"

"The baby's too far...If she goes out, it will be stuck. If that happens..."

The song roared through her, filling her up again with light, gold and warm and sweet as sunlight. "Go now. Bring them all to me. Share the Song"

"Hold her down, Pella," Escaba commanded. The daughter obeyed, securing Rania as best she could.

"Wake up, Dame Rania!" Escaba slapped her.

The Song fades, the Light grows brighter.

"Wake up!" <SLAP>

You will show them, prepare the way for me.

"WAKE-!" <SLAP!>

Bring me into your world.

"UP!" <SLAP!>

Go

On the other side of the world, a great KABOOM ripped the South Island apart. In that instant, in the guest room of Creasur's Manor, Pella and her mother Escaba were thrown from Rania's bed by a force they could neither see nor explain. Every candle went out and their heads cracked against the walls of the room. For the briefest instant, Pella's vision went gold, and she could not tell if it was from the impact or an actual source of light before she lost consciousness. Both women crumpled to the ground, unmoving.

In the sudden darkness of the guesthouse, the squalls of a newborn baby rang out...

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (3 days, 13 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Kethan was tired. He had spent the last week going between Ypsilanti and Creasur, studying his scrolls and books and visiting Rania in the sparse moments that his duties allowed himself to leave his region. That woman... He slowly shook his head, considering for a while if he had done well in swearing to become his protector. He technically had only stated that he would protect her until the father arrived or the baby was born, but even he could not delude himself: if the father did not arrive after the baby's birth, he would be forced per the ties between the D'Espanas and the JeVondairs to become the guardian of mother and son alike. A woman with a child would not last long if left alone in such a hostile environment as Beluaterra had become. Besides, lacking a fatherly reference would mark a definite tough childhood for the kid. No, he would have to step in and, at the very least, become his tutor and keeper.

But still... What about Rania's strange relationship with magic? He had began investigating about similar circumstances, and even though he had not found much yet, he knew he was on the right track. The way she reacted to even the slightest touch of ambiental magic was no doubt out of this world, as he had discreetely checked in one of his visits. And he hadn't even talked about it with his dear Ravyn. Would she be angered once she learnt that he was going to protect a different woman, or would she understand that he had no other choice, given Rania's situation and both of their relative's friendship? He hoped it was the second one, but he knew there was no other way around it, He had to tell her, but not before confirming that Rania's baby was coming out well and alive. Yes, that was it. No point in raising an uncomfortable discussion if it was all going to fade away, right?

He slightly nodded to himself, spurring his horse to travel the last few miles before reaching Creasur. He had received very worrying news about a really weird event in her delivery, something about flashing lights and a couple of midwives badly hurt after being thrown around by an invisible force. Well, that was something he had to see by himself. And the baby, he concluded. Besides, there was a certain special forces unit from Jaekind that he had every intention to check on...

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Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (12 hours, 36 minutes ago) Roleplay from Ehrich Weisz (20 days, 23 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Ehrich and his elite guardians arrived purposefully in Creasur. The Earl wore a basic green and black hooded tunic, in keeping with the rest of his men. The elite guard and their master scattered to many different tasks. Books seemed a prized resource in many of these errands, other tasks were less clearly deciphered and as the family seat, Creasur was home to networks of friends and associates that could readily be seen but kept a keen watch too. Any showing an interest in the arcane were noted and given their masters' calling card.

The guardians' sergeant made passing enquiries about the increased activity in the stables, cavalry being something of a rarity in the Vales. At one market stall a lone member of the Guardians stood and negotiated with an antique trader for a crystal prism. "Unenhanced, light might often fall only onto the dirt," the trader gestured, "But if viewed through such a mystic prism, the colours of magic might be seen! And what mysteries might be seen through it by the full moon on a sacred eve?" A few coins saw the object acquired, "Often times what happens by sacred moonlight is better left unseen," was the customer's only reply.

Before all tasks could be completed, a horn sounded long and shrill and all the guardians made ready to depart instead. A few books and supplies were gathered and sent to the earl's baggage train, a small but busy entourage. Amongst that entourage light only briefly landed on a young retainer who was kept otherwise carefully secured in the earl's personal retinue. The briefly glimpsed girl was blonde and unusually pale, she seemed somewhat averse to the sunlight and pulling up her own hood she was ushered away to shelter. Before long the retinue was back on its way out of the city again. Only a good while later did one figure ride out alone to catch them up having lingered for some unseen purpose.

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Letter from Kethan D'Espana (19 days, 16 hours ago) (Personal message to Ehrich Weisz) My arcane peer,

Please forgive my late reply, I have been busy preparing everything for our meeting so as to not leave any gaps in the security ring I have designed around Stheno. I am now ready to receive you, you just have to travel to Creasur's palace and make yourself announced to the garrisoned sentinels there. They will escort you to Stheno's chamber, though you will be halted there by her private guards. Worry not, for I will be waiting for you right there to ease their worries and get you through.

See you soon, my dear friend. Kethan D'Espana Baron of Ypsilanti

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Roleplay from Ehrich Weisz (19 days, 15 hours ago) Returning to Creasur again, Ehric followed the directions from his recent letter and presented himself to Kethan's sentinel guards. He travelled light but after some thought had brought some small gifts, a fine spun silk shawl and an illustrated folio of Ambrose's fables.

Meetings with Arcane master Kethan were always welcome and not without warmth, but there was always a sense of gravity to the proceedings so Ehric prepared himself.

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Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (19 days, 15 hours ago) (Personal message to Ehrich Weisz) As soon as Ehrich arrived to Creasur's palace he was swiftly escorted to the interior, where after quite a few turns, ups and downs he was guided to Stheno's antechamber. Before it were a couple of relatively lightly armoured guards, though they did not fool Ehrich for more than three seconds: the smell of sulphur, ammonia, ethanol and several distinct oils glued to their skin and hair was an immediate telltale of their status as either arcane students or alchemist scholars. He had seen a few more guards dressed in simlar fashion in his way here, so it looked like a prospective intruder would have a hard time managing to reach the young girl.

And there was of course Kethan, heavily covered and wearing gloves and a hood with him, as he always did when he was in a public place where he could be easily seen by anyone. However, once Ehrich approached he partially uncovered his face, milky eyes searching for Ehrich's face and a sincere smile in his face.

"Ehrich! Here you are at last! I have waited so long for this, I am so thrilled to have you finally meet my distinguished protegee!"

Feeling Ehrich's confusion for the unexpected informal greeting, Kethan rapidly tried to calm himself, though a rather uncommon sparkle in his eyes betrayed his apparently calmed face. The guards stood still, though maybe an attentive eye could distinguish the tension in their faces as they both tried to remain still.

"Please excuse my former outburst, Lord Ehrich, emotion blurred my mind for a second. You are finally arrived, but... Are you sure you are ready to witness the prodigy of Lady Rania's offspring?"

==

Roleplay from Ehrich Weisz (19 days, 14 hours ago) The carefully assembled layers of protectors along with his friend's uncharacteristic enthusiasm contributed to a feeling of suspense, but Ehric was resolved to make this awaited meeting so he followed his friend attentively. "My friend, I am glad to be in your trust and am keen to meet young Stheno. The friendship I afford you I will seek to extend to her, and I will aid you in your guardianship in any way I can. Lead on friend."

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Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (19 days, 3 hours ago) (Personal message to Ehrich Weisz) Kethan's gaze intensified with Ehrich's answer, and he did not lose another second before ordering the guards to move out of the way and open the door for them. The two men entered the large room, disproportionately big for a kid like Stheno was. However, as Kethan quickly informed Ehrich, Stheno was not often allowed to leave her room, much less her heavily patrolled wing of the palace. There were far too many interests put in her to allow the girl more freedom, something she had stoically accepted years ago. Besides, being her mother so far away and Kethan so busy, she spent most of her time between palace servants and the minor nobility that Kethan trusted to keep her company, so it was quite exceptional for her to meet new faces, not to speak such a high-ranked realm official as Ehrich.

Once they crossed the doors, a somewhat confusing panorama surrounded Ehrich. Stheno's governess, always attentive to the kid (and doubly more so when she received adult male visitors) stared at him with a mixture of respect and distrust. Kethan's presence soon comforted her enough to leave the two men be, and she took a seat on a fluffy armchair near the door where she could keep watch over almost the entire space. Most of the room was devoid of furniture, though carpets and tapestry covered the entirety of the floor and a good part of the walls. Countless items, some of which could be identified as some sort of toys, laid in various places of the room, forming curious patterns in occasions that a trained mind such as Ehrich's would easily be able to recognize.

And there was, of course, Stheno herself. The girl had stopped whatever she was doing right after hearing the door opening, and she was now intensely staring at the newcomer. There was something deeply disturbing about her eyes, but she moved quickly enough that Ehrich had no time to focus and identify the source of his discomfort. A subtlest hint of a smile proved she had seen Kethan, but she instantly turned serious again as she approached Ehrich. While she was closing in, Kethan took a few steps back and prepared to enjoy the scene as he suppressed his laughter and removed both hood and gloves from his hands. He had taken care not to inform Ehrich on what would he find, so the surprise would remain. Now this was going to be fun!

The girl was relatively small and remarkably slim, possibly around 10 years old. Her dusky features bore a strong resemblance of her mother, and all her movements showed her inner strenght and intensity. Once she reached Ehrich, she started poking, grabbing and playing around with everything and anything he was carrying that she found interesting, apparently oblivious to any personal property or space concerns. She also took her time to revise and touch any remarkable physical attributes that Ehrich had, including but not limited to hands, nose, ears and hair.

It was only when Stheno started scanning Ehrich's face that he could get a full view of her eyes, instantly understanding the reason for his previous unrest. Stheno's sclera were completely black, not showing any trace of white in the entirety of her eyes. Looking directly at those eyes was similar to a direct look to the Abyss, and only when she blinked was the trance state broken and the viewer able to see her as a pretty curious albeit quiet child again.

Kethan gave Stheno and Ehrich plenty of time to enjoy their first interaction. He simply leaned against the wall and let them be, recreating himself in his friend's astonishment and his own memories of his own first encounter with Stheno. She was a truly special girl, that was undeniable, and he was dying to know what did Ehrich think about what he was just experiencing.

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Roleplay from Ehrich Weisz (18 days, 21 hours ago) Ehric attempted to tolerate the close inspection with good humour, only occasionally acting to try and redirect interest if it was unduly drawn to the deep pockets and pouches that an aspiring arcane scholar tends to accumulate. When Stheno began pulling at the silk shawl gift, Ehric attempted to playfully unravel it before letting it go. Before curiosity discovered it, Ehric also decided to hand over the illustrated story he had brought, a fable about an ancient wanderer who spoke and was friends with the creatures of the forest and adventures they went upon including crewing a ship alone on the high seas. Ehric occasionally spoke gently describing some feats depicted, like how the sparrowhawk unfurled the main-sail in rough seas aided by a nimble badger.

Inspection of his own person was generally less interesting, with him being fairly nondescript in appearance, plain if somewhat gaunt. He was mindful he seemed likely a rare guest so indulged his tied back hair being pulled at. Some interest was peaked when Stheno's curiosity went from his ink and chemical stained fingers, to further up his badly scarred arm where daimonic forces had fairly recently inflicted a grievous and lingering injury of twisted black scarring. The inspection of course gave opportunity to examine the young girl in turn, with her beguiling black eyes and curious nature. Ehric was keen if able, to tease a reply from one of his gentle comments or queries, and he was otherwise interested in observing any small signs of her patience, inquisitiveness and general character. When Ehric ceased being a fresh source of interest he stepped back a little and was keen to also see how the ward was with her guardian, Lord Kethan. Thus he waited upon Lord Kethan to conclude the meeting before leaving with a respectful bow to the young lady and her matron, sensing already his friend's many imminent questions about the remarkable encounter.

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (18 days, 10 hours ago) (Personal message to Ehrich Weisz) Stheno listened attentively to Ehrich's descriptions of the illustrated story, her ever-flowing attention suddenly focused on the story and Ehrich's words. She did not say a word, though, but very rarely had Kethan heard her make any sort of sound with her mouth. He was almost convinced she was not mute, but quite simply did not see the need to speak as everyone else around her did. If curiosity was her number one defining quality, quietness was definitely the second one, with an energetic spirit and indomitable will coming quite close in the third spot. Kethan also knew just how intelligent could she be when she desired to put her full attention to something, and he had his experience teaching her to read, write and some arcane basics as proof. That was something he would discuss with Ehrich later, though.

Once Stheno was done with Ehrich, she paid a similar treatment to Kethan, albeit focusing less on his physical features, which she knew well enough, and more on his personal belongings. He always tried to give her a little something everytime he came to visit, so he handed her a little wooden structure that could be assambled and disassembled repeteadly, trying to appease with it her inspection of his self. It partially worked, and soon she was on the other side of the room, working on the puzzle.

"Let's leave now, Lord Ehrich, or we might get trapped here until she is hungry enough to let us free, if only to have her meal!"

Ehrich bowed to the young lady and her matron, while Kethan just gave them a quick glance and a grateful nod. Once the doors closed behind them, he guided Ehrich to a relatively small and cozy room nearby, which Kethan had used in the past both as his own office when he did not want to leave the palace for a while and as a private living room for meetings such as this one. He invited Ehrich in, asked for a few basic foods and beverages and closed the door once the servants had left in the table everything they had been asked to bring. Taking a deep breath, he poured himself a glass of wine, inviting Ehrich to take whatever he wanted at his own leisure, and sat comfortably in one of the armchairs close to the window. He let his friend some time to take a seat and anything he might want from the table, then looked at him and asked the question that he had been wanting to address him since the very beginning.

"So, my friend? What do you think of Stheno?"

==

Roleplay from Ehrich Weisz (18 days, 7 hours ago) "Remarkable my friend, nothing short of remarkable," answered Ehrich, "the child is clearly of potent and extraordinary nature, and yet bestowed with the curious flaws that beset and define the youth of our humanity. Forgive the pretention of my words, but I do find these such momentous tidings; balanced between hope and concern, where such matters can escalate out of control. We live in such times that tending toward secrecy in supernatural matters be wise, yet somehow it seems important still to anchor the child with the "humanity" in its greater sense, of our community. How best to still introduce visitors and learnings to ground the young lady amongst us is a quandary you have thought on longer and deeper than I, but know I stand now with you in my own way as friend and supporter however I can. I perceive a power, innocence and weight of destiny together which may require the most careful vigilance. I find myself wondering what if any correspondence or guidance you have had from the Lady Rania since her most dramatic departure? My own support and protection I offer you however I can from henceforth in this matter." Thus spoke Earl Ehric at length, before falling to quiet, wondering if he had exceeded himself trying to express such profound concerns.

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (17 days, 10 hours ago) (Personal message to Ehrich Weisz) Kethan nodded solemnly while listening to Ehrich's words.

"You speak wisely, Ehrich, that for sure. I had indeed considered before that perhaps the isolation I have chosen for Stheno might backfire sooner than later, but I have been tending to her education and protection mostly by myself for the last few years, especially since Lady Rania left us. I am just following the mostly isolationist regime her mother employed for her entire life, though I do think such isolationism was only partly due to Lady Rania's decision. However, I am absent from Creasur most of the time. How could I keep watch over the visitors she receives? What if they bring harm in their intentions, what if Stheno suffers any harm from my choice to open this area of the palace to anyone? I am not sure I would be able to look at myself on a mirror should the worst come to happen. It is hard enough now, I do not need more reasons to feel concerned about."

He looked at Ehrich directly, his pale and emaciated face suddenly showing signs of relief.

"But that is exactly why you are here now. I did not have anyone I could completely trust on between the high nobility when I took charge of Stheno. Now, I do have someone I would trust without a second of hesitation: you, my friend."

Kethan made a short dramatic pause, taking a few seconds to smell and take a sip of his glass of wine.

"I want you to join me in tutoring and keeping watch over Stheno. You are an educated man, and versed in the arts of the arcane as well. You can contribute to prepare Stheno for the weight of destiny you have also felt, while at the same time conserving her innocence and giving her a chance to claim her power for herself as she becomes aware of her place in the world. You can cover my absences and faults as her mentor, and even better: you can offer her a new perspective of life, and even death, that will give her the tools she needs to lead her own life for the next five or six decades."

He made another dramatic pause, scanning Ehrich with his weak off-white eyes to see how was he taking his proposal.

"In short: I want you to become Stheno's side tutor and protector, and should anything happen to me, I want you to take a central part in her life and become her new official mentor, at least until Lady Rania returns or otherwise makes you known that your services are no longer required. Because she left me no guide nor instructions when she left, my dearest friend, and the few times I have spoken to her never has been Stheno mentioned in our correspondence." - he looked at Ehrich with a hint of tiredness and fatigue in his eyes - "Everything I have done, I have done it for her and for Stheno, always lacking the experience to take the best option for her. I have never been a father, Ehrich, and neither I have had the best example on my own. I just hope you can do it better than I from now on. That is, if you do want to accept this heavy burden I am now offering you."

==

Roleplay from Ehrich Weisz (17 days, 2 hours ago) "My friend I shall be pleased to assist you in these things. Be assured my words were no criticism, nor was it my intention to diminish the unique nature of the challenge the wardship you have inherited brings." Ehric replied to his friend, toasting the endeavour with a glass of the fine wine that was being favoured. "I see well your meaning that most careful protection must come first, but do think allowing some degree of engagement with the wider world will feed Stheno's education and prepare her a little better for the world when needs must she finally engage with it more fully. I was not minded to opening her to more adult company yet, but wondered if being taught occasionally with a few other carefully selected children might benefit her. And whether at some point with our protective custody working together we might even consider taking the young lady on a short journey so she might see a little more of the world? My governance of the city of Iato could give us a secure destination where a similar protected chamber might be recreated. I simply share ideas for now, but will be glad to assist as you say in a supporting role particularly when absences are unavoidable.

By way of company I am reminded happier memories of my own childhood came sharing it with my brothers, where much learning of life came too. In absence of siblings it might be helpful for a few close friendships be encouraged. Originally as a possible strategy I had taken an orphan girl of Stheno's age and fair complexion into my own retinue should a decoy prove valuable if we had ever needed to covertly move the young ward. While such a move might bring the orphan some risk in the future, I deemed raising her in a lord's retinue might give her greater chances than as a war orphan, and over the months have found the girl a diligent and good natured servant. Perhaps if her employ was offered to Stheno's matron/governess it might allow the girls to become acquainted and perhaps share some tutoring at times, while also bringing close to hand one that could serve as decoy if need arose? Likewise if you have no relatives of your own you have in mind, one of my brothers has a number of children the younger of which are often seeking a place in court where they might gain an education and again this might be a more guarded way of introducing Stheno to a little vetted company.

As you are no doubt aware, unfortunately we are being called to the road on campaign again, and you may have matters of your own to attend to, but be assured I will return and assist tutoring/guardianship when ever you desire and hope to be able to help you share the imperfect burden you have been shouldering. Farewell for now old friend."

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (13 days, 11 hours ago) (Personal message to Ehrich Weisz) Oh, how pleasant was to hear some direct, honest and actually helpful proposal, not to mention the accurate analysis itself. Being a true lord of the Vales, pretty much nobody dared to speak frankly to him, which in turn resulted to diminishing chances of receiving a different point of view to be enriched with. Kethan easily understood all the points that Ehrich had made, for they very much reflected his own chain of thoughts for the last few years, since receiving Rania's request to take care of Stheno to this very same moment. He listened to everything his good friend said and proposed attentively, nodding and accompanying him all the way down to the palace's main hall while giving his own input.

"Thank you so much, Ehrich, I truly needed this meeting. Very well then, it is high time we prepare Stheno's approach to real life. Please do start preparing that chamber in Iato, it might prove useful both as the next step in Stheno's teachings and an emergency shelter should anything happen to Creasur, be it a Daimonic invasion or even Nothoi reclaiming the city for themselves. I'd also ask you to start preparing that orphan girl you are speaking about, I like the idea of introducing her to Stheno both as company and emergency decoy should the worst start to happen. I will leave to yourself the choice of whether or not to start the instruction of one or a few of your young nephews and nieces to become Stheno's future companions, as you will likely know them better than I do. I have no family in Beluaterra, at least not that I know of, so that might be the best course of action for now. I will also ask a few acquaintances here and there, just in case they also have proper relatives that could become Stheno's retinue."

He stopped right before entering the main hall, where Ehrich would obviously be able to find the exit by himself. There both of them parted ways, Ehrich leaving for the next campaign and Kethan to pick up a few things he had left in the palace before doing the same. The meeting was over, but dear Armored Gods had it been helpful. He called for Ehrich's attention one last time before he left the palace definitely.

"Lord Ehrich! Just one last thing: I am going to instruct Stheno's guards to let you enter freely, or at least as freely as her governess will let you. Please do come in whenever you are in Creasur, even if I am not there myself. Especially then, in fact. Stheno might not speak much, but I do know she has enjoyed your company. Farewell, my friend. See you in the battlefield."

==

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (21 days, 8 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Vahanian and his men had settled in to the manse he had occupied in Creasur. Vahanian sat in his study, his chair was a high backed wooden chair, oddly enough a wolf's head had been carved into the end of each of the arm rests. It was oddly fitting. The Direwolf being the long standing symbol of the Blint family. Vahanian felt refreshed, he'd had time to sleep in a soft bed off the ground. Eat a hot meal and take a long bath.

He had trimmed his beard and combed his hair. His hair hung to about his shoulders, he tied a portion of it back with a crimson ribbon. (OOC imagine Qui-Gon Jinn's hairstyle only shorter..) His beard, like his hair, was almost entirely grey. The brown having mostly faded. His eyes, however remained a sharp hazel. Though they were a bit sunken in and show signs of his age. He was old, but he was still strong and capable. Living in the Northern Tundra for most of his life, he had developed a tough skin, and a will made of iron.

Vahanian sat back, took a sip of tea and picked up his dagger from the desk. He started to peel an orange, the citrus fruit being one of his few pleasures. He ate the slices he cut and tossed the rind into the fire. The citrus aroma started to fill the air and he closed his eyes. He stood as there was a knock at his door, "Enter." He commanded. His captain, Andre entered, a military man to the core. Andre was usually found on the parade grounds overseeing drills and training of Vahanian's soldiers.

Vahanian washed his hands in a basin by the window as he spoke to Andre. "You checked and made sure there were no servants or anyone else nearby when you entered?" Andre nodded. "Aye mi'lord. I swept this floor of the manse twice, checking every inch. There is not a soul but us here. Nothing we say will ever leave this room." Vahanian nodded. "Good."

"Top drawer of the desk, there is a note. It was left with me when we were ambushed by the Daimons on the journey here." Andre went over and read the note on it were two words. "Find Stheno". Andre read it and committed the name to memory and then burned the note.

"Who is this person?" He asked. Vahanian turned to face him. "I don't know. But I want you to use Lyndis for this." Andre snorted. "She was my brother's daughter. She was trained by my nephew in the infiltrator's ways. She is discreet." Andre did not hide his malcontent. "She is a bastard child, born of a commoner and your brother."

Vahanian's temper flared and subsided in an instant. He had always been good at mastering his emotions. "Andre. Do as I command. Tell the girl if she does this task I will reward her. Her request for being made a legitimate heir to the Blint name will be granted. She will be allowed all the rights and titles therein earned as a Blint."

Andre did not protest. He had been given an order and he would follow it. "Yes Mi'lord. She will find Stheno."

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (21 days, 5 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Maybe Vahanian and Andre did not know yet who was Stheno nor where to find her, but that information was certainly an easy one to find, at least for someone that could reasonably move around and ask the right questions to the right ears. Some good ten years had gone on since that day, where Lady Rania's offspring had come to the world surrounde dby such circumstances that none of those present in Creasur at the time would have managed to forget the event.

That was something someone as skilled as Lyndis would find in no time at all. However, should she grease some palms here and there, especially those belonging to wealthy traders and minor noblemen, she would also learn that the young lady had a mentor and a protector, someone who occasionally dropped by at Creasur to check on Stheno and give her a few private lessons. Only the lady's governess knew most of the details and contents of such lessons, but should Lyndis be extraordinarily cunning and skilled she would be able to decipher that only a handful were actually regular lessons of history, geography, reading and writing.

The mentor's identity was, however, no secret to those working at the palace: Kethan D'Espana, Baron of Ypsilanti and an arcane freak, always entering and leaving the palace covered in heavy clothes. Rumours had it he had suffered some disfigurements and illnesses from his magical research, but not many had come close enough to him to be able to check whether rumours were right or wrong.

There was also a last piece of information that Lyndis might be able to get, should she be able to find and seduce one of the overtalkative guards of one of the secondary accesses to the palace. A particularly strong bond seemed to have been stablished between the Earl of Iato and the Baron of Ypsilanti, a bond based on mutual respect and collaboration to study the arts of the arcane. Perhaps the Earl knew something about Stheno and Kethan, perhaps he did not, but it was maybe interesting enough to follow that line in the future.

Or maybe it was not.

==

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (20 days, 10 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Vahanian stood on one of the balcony's of his manse, his cloak flapped in the wind as he oversaw the training of his soldiers. They were all battle hardened capable men, but that didn't mean he wanted them getting slow or sloppy. His hands clasped behind his back, he stood in a comfortable warriors stance, feet about shoulder width apart and he was firmly planted.

Andre approached and cleared his throat. "Speak." Vahanian commanded. He had closed his eyes and tilted his head upwards a bit, letting the night sky wash over his face. Andre had a faint tone of irritation in his voice. "My Lord, Lyndis has.." Vahanian cut him off and said "Yes. I know. She has completed her task." Vahanian turned and saw the slight look of bewilderment on Andre's face. Vahanian chuckled and said, "Come. Let us hear her report."

Vahanian and Andre entered Vahanian's office, he took his seat behind the desk and Andre stood by the door. A few moments later Lyndis entered. She bowed her head respectfully to Vahnian and shot a hateful glance at Andre. She was about to start her report when Andre said "You should kneel to your betters." Vahnian did not take his eyes of Lyndis but did say "Andre..." In a tone that was clearly meant to communicate for him to stop talking. Lyndis ignored him, stepped forward even more, disregarding Andre entirely. A rage came over Andre, he grabbed her arm and was about to kick her to the floor when she pushed him back and had drawn a dagger. "Touch me again and I'll use your balls for dice and your sack for a coin purse." She spat at him. Vahanian stood, swiftly and walked over to the two of them. He pulled them apart and said to Andre. "You will not speak unless I ask you to. You will stand there. You will do nothing. Do not cough. Do not sneeze. Do nothing but blink and breathe. Understood?" Vahanian didn't wait for a response, he knew his orders would be obeyed. He turned to Lyndis. "Do anything like that ever again and I will execute you my self. Learn your place in the world girl. You have not been formally recognized as a Blint. You are a bastard of my brother and I can have you killed as easily as I could a calf. Do you understand me?" She shrugged him off and glared at him.

Vahanian moved faster than either of them thought was possible for a man his age. He swept her legs from under her and grabbed her throat while she was mid air. She slammed into the ground with a loud thud, driving the air from her lungs. He knelt beside her, his hand still on her throat. "I asked you a question. You will respond to me and you will obey me. I am the one thing in this world that is keeping you alive. If that is no longer your desire I will let Andre drive his sword through your heart. Believe me that is something he would cherish doing. Do you want to live?" Lyndis nodded her head yes. "Good. Then you will obey." Vahanian released her and returned to his seat. Lyndis laid there for a moment letting the rage and anger drain from her. Vahanian poured himself a cup of tea and watched her stand as he sipped it.

"What of the girl?" He asked. Lyndis responded "I have the name of her mentor. Kethan D'Espana." Vahanian nodded and said. "Good. Continue your investigation. Report back with any findings. Don't kill anyone and don't get killed." Lyndis bowed her head and left.

"Andre, invite Lord Kethan for dinner." Andre bowed and left as well. Vahanian finished his tea and closed his eyes. "Like children they are..." He thought to himself.

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (19 days, 16 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Lord Vahanian's invitation for dinner took Kethan quite by surprise, especially being so busy as he was right now preparing everything for a certain event he had been wishing a long time to happen. He read the letter at least a dozen times before finally understanding that he would have to engage in a direct, close quarters and most likely one-on-one social interaction with this newcomer nobleman to the Vales.

Oh well, so much for keeping low profile and avoiding feastings and public events. He let out a deep, long sigh before actually calling for his personal steward.

"Ernald, please answer Lord Vahanian's invitation and tell him that I accept his gentle offer. Once that is done, prepare my cosmetics for the occasion, I think I might need some of them."

The middle-aged man nodded and left to do his master's bidding. Kethan absent-mindedly touched his cheeks while he thought of the many possible disastrous outcomes of the meeting, his mood worsening for moments.

"I might need some of it? I just hope my reserves are not depleted after this unexpected surprise." - he mumbled.

==

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (19 days, 9 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Vahanian had received Lord Kethan's messenger and had been informed that Kethan had accepted the invitation. He nodded, not showing any sense of approval or disapproval. His steward was a nervous man, but a capable one. He started talking fast when he was nervous, which he usually was. "I will see to the preparations my lord you have nothing to worry about I will take care of everything we will have the finest silverware and dishes and goblets brought out I will have the cooks slaughter a goat and calf for the main course we should have a soup as well and perhaps a light salad." Vahanian turned and stared at the man until he stopped talking.

"Calm yourself. We are not trying to impress, this is not a content of who has the longest cock. This is a simple meal between two men who I hope will become friends. You will not prepare anything to grandiose. We will have a soup, you will have the cooks slaughter one goat, one chicken, and prepare a fish. I know not what our guest likes to eat so we will have options. Prepare a summer salad, I want fruit on the salad. Prepare a barrel of mead, and a bottle of wine. Andre will handle the spirits should we need it. I will have tea."

The steward nodded and rushed to complete his task. Vahanian turned to Andre, "I want the men we traveled here with stationed inside the manse. The new recruits can take the wall posts. You are not to be heavily armed, but you may carry either a dagger or sword. No Lance. Also, make sure all of the men have washed and eaten before our guest arrives. They can gamble when not on duty but no drinking. They will be given what remains of the barrel of mead when our guest has left." Andre nodded, "Do you expect trouble my lord?" Vahanian turned away and said "Always. Now go. I will wash and await our guest."

Several hours later when all preparations had been made, Vahanian stood on the balcony of his study, toying with the dagger he used to peel his beloved oranges. He had washed and trimmed his beard. He was dressed in a dark grey tunic with his house sigil, A direwolf with broken chains on its ankles howling at the moon, emblazoned on the tunic in gold. His trousers were black and his boots were dark brown leather. He wore a leather belt with his orange peeling dagger's scabbard on his hip and another dagger tucked against his back. He had his hair pulled back as he liked to with a crimson ribbon. He noticed Lord Kethan's arrival and watched the man and his retainers ride through the gates of Vahanian's manse. Vahanian turned and went to greet his guest.

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (19 days, 2 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Kethan rode his courser into Vahanian's manse, ten of his Daimon Hunters escorting him by foot as his honour guard and Ernald riding a rouncey right beside him, ready to support his master should he require his services in any shape or form. Ernald and him left the horses to Vahanian's servants, and he indicated with a gesture and a few words to Gernar, his captain, that the soldiers were to wait for him wherever Vahanian's captain indicated them, as their purpose was to guard him on his way to and from the meeting, not during it.

He was wearing a relatively fine dark green tunic, not very different from Vahanian's one, though manufactured with more comfort and durability in mind than pure looks or appearance. The or rampant dragon over the azure and argent coat of arms of the D'Espana's spoke of his D'Haran origins, though he had good reasons not to remember fondly his father or his grand-father. Dark brown trousers and leather boots completed his attire, and he had a heavy-looking long ornamental dagger hanging from his hips. He had been a hero for so long now that he just felt naked without a weapon, and he hoped Vahanian would understand that. A large green hood was covering his head when he entered the structure, though he removed it after a second of hesitation once he descended from his horse. He decided to keep his brown silk gloves on, at least until he was alone with Vahanian or he made some sort of comment about them.

Once he removed his hood, dark hair waved free, now hanging a little over his shoulders due to his current busyness. He had taken care to have his beard shaved off, and his face looked remarkably smooth and soft for a battle-hardened warrior past his thirties. He had taken a bath, though he still smelled funny from the perfume used to cover his everyday scent, rich in laboratory compounds and arcane ingredients. However, even though he had dye covering his hoary hair, cosmetics cloaking his unnaturally pale facial skin and gloves hiding his similarly pale hands, what he could not hide were his off-white pupils and ever-growing cataracts, and his eyes nervously scanned the area while waiting for his host and trying to avoid direct eye contact with any of his servants.

"Very well, Ernald." - he said. - "The moment of truth has come. Let's see how good are my disguise skills."

==

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (14 days, 9 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Vahanian's eyes drank in the features of Kethan almost instantly. His practiced eye looked over the Lord standing before him and judged him immediately. He noticed the cosmetics that covered the man's skin, though the purpose was something Vahanian had not yet ascertained. He noticed the gloves, an unusual choice but many reasons raced through Vahanian's mind. He pushed all of them to the side in his mind, he noticed the perfume that masked the man's natural scent, also an odd choice Vahanian thought. In an instant Vahanian had sized Kethan as a formidable mind, capable warrior, and odd person in general.

Vahanian stepped forward, bowed his head respectfully, making note of Kethan's position and title as a lord and said "My Lord, you honor me with your acceptance of my invitation. My captain will see to your men, and provide them food and water if they wish. If you would be so kind as to follow me, we can proceed into my study. We have much to discuss." Vahanian led Kethan through his Manse, and into his study, he offered the man a chair and "It appears we know some of the same people, my Lord... May I offer you a drink? Wine? Ale? A spirit?"

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (13 days, 10 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales When Vahanian approached him, Kethan noticed the short albeit careful scrutiny that the man in front of him was performing. He tried to do the same, but discovered to his dismay just how much had his vision blurred in the last few months. He could easily see Vahanian's overall figure and distinguish the different colours that made up his attire, but he barely could tell apart the many details needed to make a quick judgement of the man currently in front of him. Everything he could get out of this first interaction was the palpable respect his servants had to their master, that he felt immediately when all of them straightened the second he stepped in the room, and the exquisite manners of his host. He returned a slight bow after Vahanian's greeting, indicating with a quick gesture to his steward that he was not going to need him. You better remain here and make sure my Daimon Hunters behave properly, said the glance he directed at him. Ernald immediately understood, and left his master in Vahanian's company, focusing on Kethan's escort instead. Not that it was really necessary, as they all were extremely veteran and disciplined soldiers, but an extra eye or two were never going to hurt.

Kethan followed Vahanian to his study, where he took the seat he was offered and nodded to Vahanian's invitation.

"I am no longer a picky eater or drinker, over a decade in Beluaterra tempers any man's needs for luxury sooner than later. Some fresh and light-bodied wine would be perfect, but I will take anything you have in its place, especially if it makes your favourite preference."

Kethan waited until he was served his drink and any remaining servants left them alone, then looked directly at Vahanian, curiosity gleaming strongly even through his cataracts.

"You should know that it had been years since the last time I received such an invitation for a private dinner, Sir Vahanian. You have mentioned a mutual acquaintance of us... May I know who are we talking about, if you would be so gentle?"

==

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (10 days, 16 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Vahanian stood behind his desk, he traced the ring of his tea cup with his finger and finally he sat down and stared back at Kethan. He immediately liked the man. He was intelligent, polite, and experienced in many walks of life. Vahanian leaned back in his chair and said "If you will indulge me, I would tell you a story first." At Kethan's polite nod of affirmation Vahanian took a sip of his tea, and launched into his tale.

"I have two siblings. My younger sister, has long since passed from this world, far before her time. My older brother and she were very close to one another. He has not forgiven me for missing the funeral.. I was otherwise pre-occupied in Dwilight.. Since then my brother, Leatho, has traveled the world, employing his services as a very skilled and dangerous infiltrator. For a while I was furious with his choice of career, thinking it ignoble and dishonorable. Since then I have learned that it is a necessary and in some cases an incredibly useful evil that some must take the mantle of." Vahanian paused took a sip of tea and continued

"Something you should know Lord Kethan, trust is something not easily won from a Blint. My brother in particular. I have only ever seen him give his undying loyalty to four people outside of our family. One of them is in all likelihood dead. For him to write me and say that he owes his life and loyalty to the JeVondair family, and that if I ever can provide aide to that family that I should do so at once. Is no small thing. My brother has sworn a blood oath to a JeVondair in a far away land. An oath I fully intend to uphold until my last breath leaves my body and I forever depart the mortal world. So to answer your question Lord Kethan, I am here because I and every living member of my family owes it to the JeVondair's to protect and serve them in any way possible. Our mutual acquaintance is of course, Lady Rania Eastersand."

Vahanian paused again. "I must ask Lord Kethan. In what capacity do you know and serve the JeVondair family?"

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (2 days, 2 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Kethan's satisfied gesture of mixed surprise and fulfilled expectations could easily be seen through his makeup the second Vahanian pronounced the word "JeVondair". He waited politely for Vahanian to finish and ask him the obvious question, though his sudden relaxation spoke volumes about his expectations and regained self-confidence now he knew the reason of his host's invitation. He sincerely nodded at the infiltrator part, and could not help but empathise with Vahanian between sip and sip of his glass when he told him of his difficult family situation. A complicated family picture was one of the most defining qualities of the D'Espanas.

He let out a soft chuckle after Vahanian's question. He then took a deep breath, tilting his head to the sides for a couple times before answering, which he did after a long sip.

"Ah, the JeVondairs. Such a remarkable family, yes they are. Wherever you go in this wide and wild world, you will find it surprisingly hard to reach a place where their name has not left a dent, either in history or in the minds and hearts of the locals, nobility and commoners alike. And as for Lady Rania Eastersand JeVondair..."

He took another small sip, careful enough to not let it ruin his makeup, his face and body language indicating that he was very carefully selecting which words to use.

"I would not say that I serve the JeVondair family, though it is true that I am also bond to Lady Rania by means of a promise I made to her, now many years ago. She came to us, to the Empire of the Shattered Vales, all by herself. Alone, Sir Vahanian, though in the end it turned out that she was not as lonely as we all thought."

Kethan tapped his fingers in Vahanian's desk, still unsure about just how much should he tell his host. However, he believed that Vahanian had been honest when he spoke about his oath, and an extra ally in this matter was something he could definitely use. Besides, he had to admit that he was enjoying Vahanian's company in a way that he had experienced very seldom in the last few years. He wanted to believe his host, and there was only a way he could do so to start talking with freedom.

"Sir Vahanian, you say you are oathbounded to the JeVondair family, and that both you and the rest of your family will strive to protect and serve the JeVondairs in any way you can. Would you be willing to repeat that oath before myself and with the Armored Gods of Mankind as our witnesses?" - he added another sentence after a very brief pause, even before Vahanian could answer his question - "Do weigh your answer carefully, Sir Vahanian. I would truly hate it for you to repeat your oath without really meaning it, and if you cannot do it in good faith perhaps it would be better that you told me so directly. It would be far easier for us both."

==

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (1 day, 14 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales For the first time since their meeting, Vahanian turned away from his guest and faced the fire that was crackling in the hearth. When Kethan asked him to repeat his oath to him, rage flashed across his eyes and face. It was, in a way, a question against his honor to ask him to repeat an oath already made. Vahanian valued his honor above most other things. He took a breath, and then controlled the anger, locking it away for a time when it would benefit him to use.

He turned to face Kethan and said "Lord Kethan.." Vahanian paused, picking his words carefully. "I hope you fully understand the gravity of your request. What you are asking, could very likely get me killed. Now I do not fear death, it accomplishes nothing to fear what we cannot change. However, I would like to live a little longer, there is still much I need to accomplish." Vahanian took a sip of his tea. He placed his tea cup on the desk and walked out from behind it. "My Brother owes his life to a JeVondair and my family owes a debt to the JeVondair's. I will reaffirm my oath before you." He paused, closed his eyes, took a breath and said,

"I Vahanian of House Blint, Commander of the Iron Legion, due offer my oath of fealty to Lady Rania of House JeVondair, I vow to defend her, protect her kin, aide her allies, and destroy her foes. I vow my sword, service, and life to her until my death, or until a time that Lady Rania sees fit to release me from my oath. This I swear before gods and man."

He opened his eyes and turned to look at Kethan and said "My Lord, I hope you do not take this personally, in fact I wish us to become great friends and allies. However, should my death come as a result of the oath I just gave before you, I can promise that my brother, his son, and my children will come for you and your family. The Blint family may not be well known, or widely regarded. But we are patient, and we do not forget." Vahanian looked into his guest's eyes before saying. "Please also understand that I do not make threats idly. In fact I very much detest threats, they make a man look weak." Vahanian took another sip of tea and said "Shall we eat?"

==

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana (1 day, 13 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Kethan gave some time to his host to recover his composure. He knew that it was likely that he felt offended by his request, but there was no other way around this issue. Far too many things were at stake, and he was not going to compromise his oath to Lady Rania if Vahanian was not willing to do the same. However, it turned out that the man agreed to Kethan's terms. He listened to his words with solemnity all over his face, respect growing in his eyes as Vahanian went over his oath. When he let out his final threat, Kethan nodded just once.

"You have accepted my request, Sir Vahanian, and I am obliged to accept your terms in return. I would however not pay much attention to my family..." - Kethan's voice suddenly hardened with sarcasm, immediately conveying a long-held and deeply ingrained resentment - "...for I even doubt they remember I was sent to this barren land now so many years ago. And about me, if everything keeps being the way it is now, I may linger in this world for even less than you do."

He looked away for a second, trying to recompose himself much like Vahanian had done just a few minutes ago. After some five or ten seconds. he looked to his host once again, the storm inside subdued by Vahanian's offer.

"Indeed. I think I can trust you, Sir Vahanian, so this time it will be me who will answer your questions, either while we eat or after dessert, whichever you prefer. I would however ask that when the time comes we are left alone, just as we are now. Some of the answers to your questions will undoubtedly be meant only for your ears."

==

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint (1 day, 12 hours ago) message to all nobles of Shattered Vales Vahanian's respect for Kethan grew by the second. He called for a servant to bring them the food that had been prepared. The meal consisted of a salad, some roasted duck, a bit of lightly salted fish, and some dark red wine, served alongside a platter of fruit and cheese.

After the spread had been laid before them, Vahanian poured his guest some more wine, and himself some tea. The servant had left and they were once again alone. Vahanian carved the duck with practiced ease, laying a generous portion on a platter for his guest, followed by a bit of the fish and some of the salad. He prepared a plate for himself and sat opposite Kethan.

Both men ate for a few moments in silence, enjoying the taste of the meal while it was still warm. No doubt the conversation they were about to have would last for quite a while. After a few moments of eating and trivial conversation, Vahanian placed his fork down, wiped the corners of his mouth on a napkin, took a long sip of tea and asked. "Lord Kethan, as you can imagine I have many questions, that broach many subjects. A few are. Who is Stheno? What is the political climate like in the Vale? How surrounded by enemies are we really? Who are our allies? Who is the wolf queen? And most of all.. What do you need me to do?"

The Oracle's 60th Birthday

The Tournament feast was at hand. The Duke of Amen Tellum had bathed in a private bathhouse, washed and styled his silvery-grey hair in its traditional half-up, half-down style, and trimmed his beard. Vahanian had chosen the handwoven, beautifully crafted robes of obsidian black, trimmed with Obian Blue, and Templar Red and Gold that the Oracle had sent him as a gift. He also strapped on his sword and secured two daggers to his forearms. He was one of the few who was allowed to be armed while in the presence of the Oracle and it was a status he took every opportunity he could to remind everyone of that fact.

Thankfully, Vahanian did not have to take the Pilgrim’s Path to reach the Basillica’s upper levels, and so he arrived at the Royal apartments beneath the Solarium where the Oracle lived and worked with time to spare. Even while carrying a wrapped parcel and passing through several checkpoints of Paladins - the blue armored sentinels he had hand chosen for her personal security. He greeted a few by name, and politely obliged their requests/challenges to his business. He reached the final checkpoint and was stopped by two more Paladins, one he knew and recognized and the other he didn't. The young one stepped forward and in a voice that was clearly nervous. Asked Vahanian to remove his weapons, Vahanian nearly leveled the boy with a glare before the elder, wiser Paladin coughed and bade the Duke pass unhindered.

He waited now in the Royal Apartment’s foyer, looking out the window over the expanse of the city below arms folded behind his back. Though he was dressed in robes, his stance and demeanor screamed military. He turned towards the sound of swishing fabric on stone. "I do hope you're ready for -" He began, but stopped shor, his words momentarily interrupted on their urgent journey from brain to mouth when he saw her.

Rania stood only a few feet away, her smile warm in greeting and her hands folded demurely before her. At 60, she was till a handsome woman. Slender, yes, though anything BUT frail. This was usually well hidden beneath the Heraldic veil and holy vestments of office that she favored for the rare occasions when circumstance forced her to emerge or entertain. Today, however, she had selected a fetching white gown with an intricately laced obian-blue shawl about her shoulders. The dress was simple of cut but finely tailored and draped from her waist, shoulders, and arms, flowing about and behind her like clouds of mist as she moved. The sleeveless, strapless ensemble’s collar was cut in a modest V, revealing only the skin of her arms and face not covered by the shawl, but the gossamer material of the pearlescent garment beneath clung to her form wherever they could. At the center of her neck was a new brooch that held a violet gemstone at its core in fine cage of gold. The multifaceted gemstone sparkled as sunlight skipped along the angles of its depths. On her brow rested her sapphire studded-ducal circlet, the same one that she had crowned herself with when Amen Keffa was first brought into being all those years ago, that held in check the silver-streaked chocolate hair that was bound, wound, and coiled over her right shoulder to dangle above her folded hands like a sleeping serpent. His friend had aged like the fine Ravelian wine she favored. There were wrinkles, aye, but muscle yet, and Vahanian had to stifle the familiar jealousy that Rania had been born blessed with the speedy metabolism that kept her slim while other mere mortals, like a certain unnamed, over-protective duke whom he was sure he’d never met, had to actually work at it. To Vahanian, she radiated her tastefulness and class while fully embracing her femininity without falling into the garish displace that so often entangled younger women. Indeed, looking at her now, Vahanian knew who he’d bet on in a catfight and he had to bite down on the chuckle THAT thought inspired. But it was true.

That moment of appraisal lasted only the barest moment, then she was crossing the space between them and extending her hand to him. Vahanian took it, and swept into a perfect court bow. Kissing the ring on her finger and said "Holy One, you honor me beyond words." He straightened and the two shared a look and a moment.

“Oh, I’m sure you say that to all the Oracles,” she rejoined slyly, and his smile widened. It had taken nearly a decade before she’d revealed her humor. There was a palpable connection between the two, one that extended beyond friendship. And to think it had only cost him his life, his soul, and a growing collection of chess pieces…

He gestured to his robes and said "These are perfect, and I wish to return the favor." He picked up the wrapped parcel he'd carried with him and pulled back the silk cover in one motion to reveal a masterwork stave, crafted from the white-oak native to the Athol Peninsula and etched with latticework of heraldic runes inlaid with purest silver that swirled along its entire length. At the peak of the staff was a roughhewn sapphire sizeable enough to fill the palm of a large man’s hand. At its base was a polished, burnished, brass cap that rang like a bell with each step. Vahanian saw Rania's eyes light up and he knew he had chosen correctly. He caught her hand flicker with motion as if she was about to reach out for gift, but he pulled it back ever so slightly and dared to cluck his tongue at her eagerness. He paused a moment, eyes, darting up, but when lightning failed to smite him for his impudence, he grinned and spoke again. "I'm no master carpenter or rune maker, but I am an able hand with steel and blades." He grinned was wolfish now and flicked his wrist, a small click sounded and he turned the staff towards Rania brasscap first, resting the raw sapphire against his chest. He nodded for Rania to grip the stave at its lower end, then slowly stepped back as she did, and the Oracle’s eyes widened as discovered that she was gripping a hilt. A rapier-length of double-edged obian steel, the same metal from which the Farseers and Paladins of Obeah forged their weapons, revealed itself. All three and a half feet of the blade itself were etching and engraved of heraldic runes, cut just deep enough that blood would collect and pool in them, spelling the doom of what or whomsoever was unfortunate enough to have been caught on the business end. "Made from Obian steel, mined from the depths of Grehk's countryside. I worked firsthand with the finest bladesmith in the Sacred Realm had this custom made." The hilt of the blade bore a yellow sapphire that itself had been emblazoned with the JeVondair house sigil of a rampant lion. The wrapping was a combination of silk and Leather - light enough to maintain the balance of the weapon, and sturdy enough to prevent the blade from slipping out of the wielders hand. With the reverence due such a mastercraft, he gently placed it in the Oracle’s waiting hand.

Vahanian showed Rania how to return the blade to the stave and also presented her with an ornate belt and sheath that matched the rapier. “Shall We?” Vahanian said as he extended his arm and Rania took it. The entire time she hadn’t said a word, and she hadn’t needed to. They smiled at one another and departed for the gathering, the bell-like tone of the staff striking stone ringing as they went.

When the Oracle moved, it was never s small affair. Horses, carriages, protection details, routes, counter routes, fallback planning, ceremony, decorum, tradition, and general disruption of the normal goings-on of the city became the rule of the day. There was no shortage of beings, human and otherwise, that would have delighted at the Oracle’s death, and so the former Grand Templar, and indeed all Heraldrim, took every conceivable precaution to protect and preserve her wellbeing.

It came as no surprise to her Paladins and the others that made her safety their personally business that there would be no keeping her movements under wraps. Word would get out, it always did, and the throngs would come. In the capital, these people didn’t just owe her their faith as their spiritual leader or their fealty as their liege lady. No, the people of Rines owed her their lives. To them, she wasn’t just the sum of her titles, she was the legendary hero that arrived on a lightning bolt when the dead outnumbered the living in Rines, and she’d armed them and taught them to fight back the dark, organized food to feed the hungry, invested gold to build them up. And, just as important, her lordship had kept them joyously happy and firmly in order for years, a safety for which they were firmly grateful. They had followed her from across the Sea of Four Cities or flocked to her from the hills and hinterlands, and would follow her to whatever she led. She’d made them the envy of the world, and the she’d fought and tamed Netherworld Daimons to do it. Rania Eastersand JeVondair was the Heroine of Rines, very much was the beating heart of the Moonlight City. Thus, when she moved, it seemed as if the whole city moved with her. So rarely did she appear, in fact, that it had become considered good luck to even glimpse the Oracle of Obeah. The people turned out in throngs to wave and pray and shout their adulation.

Even for a ‘short’, simple journey to the party Sir Marcus had arranged was slowed to a parade-speed as the Oracle’s carriage and escort made its way. It was one of the many reasons the Oracle often chose to remain in the Basilica, rather than disrupt the normal activities and productivities of her fief. Which of course only had the effect of making her rarer trips that much more of an affair when she did. Within the Oracle’s carriage, Rania and Vahanian watched the crowds and building facades roll slowly by. Waving at the joyous crowds every now and again as they spoke between themselves. All the while, she gripped the stave he had given her. It really was marvelous, and she’d been trying out names for most of the short trip. At the moment, she’d settled to calling it her Edict. When asked why, she insisted that items of gravity deserve names that match. Privately, Vahanian more than suspected it was because she thought the name sounded cool…a youthful whim that clashed amusingly with the wizened persona she liked to suggest. Ever observant, Rania must have caught on to his thought process because when he looked at her again, merriment in his eyes, she simply turned her nose to the air and huffed haughtily.

As they grew nearer to the chosen location Rania could sense Vahanian’ s dread growing. She knew he hated these social functions, he would very nearly be as much of a recluse as she, save for the little fact that he could not send orders from his ivory tower, and it tickled her to see him squirm and she told him so. He fired back by sticking his tongue out at her and she yielded with a laugh. When they finally did arrive at the party Sir Marcus had organized in her honor, it was to great fanfare. A few moments later they escorted to the large pavilion that had been setup on near the tournament grounds. A guard pulled back the flap and two Templar and Two Paladins proceeded Vahanian and Rania into the pavilion. Vahanian saw Marcus, alerted to their presence by the commotion, materialize from the crowd of people that had assemble and make his way to them to pay his respects and greet the Oracle. Vahanian smiled at the young steward and inclined his head in approval and appreciation of the feast he'd put on before raising his voice to the crowd. “Your attention please!” He called in a resonant basso, resplendent in his fine robes, is presence soaking up the attention of the room as he announced “HER HOLINESS!”

And then the Oracle of Obeah entered.

Vahanian let himself revel in the peace of the moment. He was walking arm in arm with his oldest friend to a party in her honor. He escorted Rania through the growing throng of people, both giving polite nods and warm smiles to the gathered nobility, but neither he nor Rania stopped as they ventured towards her seat of honor at the high table. A servant stepped forward and then immediately back as Vahanian shot a glance at him. This honor was his, and he intended to milk this for all it was worth. He guided Rania to her chair and then pulled her chair out for her, bowing low, in once more a perfect court bow as she took her seat. He then slid into the seat directly to her right. A servant arrived and poured wine for the Oracle, that fancy Ravalian stuff she favored, and then turned to Vahanian. He merely placed his hand over the top of his goblet and shook his head politely. From within the folds of his robes, he pulled his beloved pipe and tobacco pouch. Shoving some leaf into the end of his pipe he struck a match against the arm of his chair and lit his pipe, the smoke swirled around him like a cloud of mystery as his keen hazel eyes scanned the assembled crowd.

Now seated, Rania raised her hand in benediction and the gathered nobles fell silent. “For nearly 20 years, We have struggled” she began, her voice a rich alto as it spread to fill the silence. ”For nearly 20 we bled and suffered alone in this desolate, forsaken promised land. Undead rose nightly from the vast catacombs beneath Our feet and monsters of every sort tried Our walls to steal Our people off to their lairs at night. Aye, We were alone, and Aye, we struggled, but We were never lost. We worked and fought and built, we channeled the light of our faith into the brilliant beacon it now is. And now you all must know by now that here, now, when we say We,” she emphasized the capital, “We refer to all of Us, We spilled blood, We fought and died and struggled, but We did it together. One strong, growing family of faith. Unified in a way that the other faiths, nay, the other realms could hardly hope to match.” She paused then, looking through the eyes of the gathered nobles; into the souls she had sworn her won to guide and protect, then rose solemnly and all those gathered rose with their spiritual leader, gathering their goblets in toast as she fell into the old words: “Obeah guide us. Obeah teach us. Obeah protect us. Obeah deliver us. In your light we thrive. In your mercy we are sheltered. In your wisdom we are humbled. We live only to serve. Our lives are yours.”

As the final words were uttered by ever throat, the Oracle smiled, tapping the tip of her Edict to produce the bronze ring, almost like a temple chime. “With that said,” she continued, “This is a party, is it not? May the celebrations commence!”

Roleplay from Marcus Daubeny Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (30 recipients) - 3 days, 17 hours, 19 minutes ago Marcus was dumbfounded when Duke Vahanian and the Oracle entered the party, he barely had time to kneel and spew out the words of his greeting “Welcome Oracle I am greatly you could make it to this party I hope you enjoy tonight!” By the time he had finished the Oracle had already moved past him.

He felt like a fool,

Once she was seated and had spoke her most holy words, he went from feeling the fool to feeling like pride, he was her Steward, her most holiness trusted him to run this smoothly and by Obeah he would.

“You heard the Oracle, drink, be merry, to do otherwise is to disobey her direct orders.”

And with that he signaled the band to begin playing, which in turn was the cue for the servants to bring out the meals on Silver trays they quickly placed a bit of everything on the plates of everyone present except the Duke and Oracle.

Marcus walked up to the High Table and bowed to his Liege, He then sat next to the Oracle on her left he then sat back and nodded to a servant, who signaled another which in turn tapped a Waiter returning to the Kitchen and whispered “Oracle.” The waiter nodded and signaled a few more waiter who were dressed in the finer clothes they rushed into the Pavilion bearing Gold trays and set them on the the table, lifted the lids and revealed many dishes from a what appeared to be a basic steak to a rainbow scaled fish, they then brought forward 10 Chalices each filled with a different drink, one of the most striking one was the Chalice with a light blue liquid that almost seemed to glow, they set the chalices before the Oracle and another set in front of the Duke though for Marcus they only brought one with the light blue liquid.

“Don’t worry my good Duke I have personally sampled each meal and drink, not from the same cup as the Oracle or you of course but I can confirm that all of this.” He pointed at the food and drink “Is not poison.” He hoped this would ease the Oracle and Duke for her most holiness’s safety was his priority.

He then stood and tapped his chalice with a spoon, once he caught the attention of everyone he put the spoon back.

“Nothing I can say can match what the Oracle already said but as it is expected that I speak I will do my best, The Oracle, a name we have all come to belove, She has lead us for 20 years through light and dark, war and peace, life and death and I pray that she will lead us for 20 more.”

He then looked at the Oracle.

“And I know she will.”

He raised his glass and looked out to all the assembled nobles.

“Let us drink to the Oracle, long may she live.”

The toast was echoed

“Long may she live.”

He sat back down and clapped twice, suddenly a mighty roar was released as behind the Oracle a scroll had been used that summoned a lion of fire, as the lion was the symbol of the JeVoindar symbol he hoped the compliment was taken that way, The lion flew threw the sky around the entire pavilion harmlessly passing threw the air before let out one more roar and disappearing behind the Oracle.

Marcus whispered to the Oracle.

“Enjoy tonight for this is all for you.”

"That was a lovely toast Marcus, thank you."

Rania leaned toward Marcus' crooking her finger for him to do the same. Her body language looked as though she might whisper some secret or private joke perhaps, but she modulated her voice to carry subtly so that anyone within casual earshot would here.

"We were very right to give you the responsibility of managing the affairs of Rines. this-" she gestured with her Edict to encompass not just the Pavilion but the whole of the celebration throughout the city." We do not believe that anyone else in the Sacred Court would have done as well. Thank you." She repeated.

"I am very glad that I picked you." She said then, and no one within earshot missed the fact that she'd dropped the royal "We" that was her right. If there had been any doubt in anyone's mind that the Steward of Rines was not among the Oracle's favored, they died quietly in the face of this new confirmation. "Wine, My Steward" Rania said, imitating his grave tone with an unvoiced sparkle of laughter as she hefted her glass and winked."

"We'll have more words in time, dear boy. Until then, you're the host, and you should not lavish your attention on an old woman like me with so many fair noblefolk about. Go, mingle, enjoy yourself." With her other hand she lifted Her Edict up and down, the brass at its end ringing as if to make her Will known.

The Oracle smiled then. "That's an order, Farseer."

Marcus laughed and gave the Oracle a salute before standing p bowing once to the Oracle and once to the Duke that sat beside her as he left he silently whispered to a waiter next to him.

"See that the Oracles requests are filled, this is her party and anything she asks for you go get, understood."

The Servant nodded and with that Marcus walked around again and begun to speak to the guests. Vahanian, despite himself, was having a pleasant evening at the party. He'd smiled, and chuckled with friends, old and new. Spoke to nobles he hadn't seen in some time, and threw jests back and forth about the approaching tournament.

The music was played beautifully, the food was wonderful, and the drink was ample, though Vahanian avoided the latter. He summoned a servant and whispered something in his ear, before the man disappeared and reappeared next to the musicians. The first note was struck a few moments later and if by divine intervention, the dance floor started to clear.

Vahanian stood, tamped out his pipe, and leaned towards Rania, who was just finishing her conversation with her steward, and said "Oracle, I may be slow with words but I am quick on my feet, would you do me the honor?" He extended his hand and couldn't help but smile as she looked up at him and he saw a grin creep onto her face as her eyes flicked between his hand and his eyes. She smiled at him and said "I wouldn't want to get in the way of someone who would be a far better dancing partner. Her eyes flicked behind Vahanian and he followed her gaze. Cutting through the throng of people in an astonishingly beautiful dress was a woman Vahanian didn't recognize at first. It took him a moment to realize that Stheno was walking towards them. Vahanian's chest swelled with pride, admiration, and love for the girl. It took Vahanian a moment to recover, he was so used to seeing Stheno in riding leathers and training armor, so seeing her in a dress at a court function was odd. She curtsied perfectly before the Oracle. For one who'd always done her level best to get away from ANYTHING resembling formality, she's clearly been practicing, Vahanian observed silently as Rania opened her arms in welcome.

Stehno approached, leaning into the Oracle’s embrace before pulling back.

"Mother!" Stheno exclaimed, excitement rolling off her in waves as she produced a series of four official-looking documents. “These-“she began with a dramatic air, waving the parchment with emphasis “-are my recommendations! I’m going to be a knight and fight for Obeah just like you and uncle did!”

“That’s wonderful news, my darling!” Rania’s smile was just as excited as her daughters.

“Mother…” Stheno hesitated. “I…I know you never really approved of my, eh...”

“Running away to a different kingdom to live on your own?” Vahanian quipped helpfully. “But what about me hmm? To think, ignored by the mother so often, and now the daughter too? The indignity of it all! Why, I’ve half a mind to-“ Was nascent diatribe was efficiently cut off but the sudden pressure of slender arms wrapping tightly about his chest and robes and squeezed.

“We always get to you eventually, Uncle Vahanian, you know that!” Stheno said with a laugh.

He returned the gesture with a squeeze and a warm chuckle of his own. “That you do, child, that you do. Now let me see those referrals before your mother attempts to recruit you for Amen…errr…what is Jessica calling it again?” A sidelong glance at the Oracle, but she turned up her nose at him.

“What do you mean ‘attempt’?” Rania retorted with a mock-haughtiness that all-too-closely resembled the true anger he’d witnessed occasionally over the past 20 years. But Vahanian merely smiled, after that long, he could always tell the difference.”

“Could he be referring to your legendarily single-minded determination, Mother?”

“Is that Sthenoan for ‘stubborn and overbearing?” The Oracle asked in response, eyes glinting with mirth. “How did I raise such a vile, disrespectful daughter?”

“You had help, damn it” Vahanian inserted, a caricature of his usual gruffness.

“Its over, mother,” Stheno said as she through an arm over Vahanian’s shoulder as his grin deepened. “Unc’s always been on my side.”

Rania through up her hands in defeat. “Daimons, Kings, and heretics I can handle. But you too? And would it kill you, spawn, to call me “Mom” once and a while?”

“Would it kill you to dance once in a while, Your Grace” came the much too sweet reply.

“Hmph…fair.” Rania waved her hand in surrender.

While mother and daughter exchanged loving barbs, Vahanain reviewed the recommendations. One of them was from him, of course the she’d sought him out. But he was surprised, and not a little chagrinned, to find that Duke Erehas D’Este, Lord Herald of Athol Margos had been the first noble to refer the oracle’s daughter for a knighthood. Vahanian himself had only been the second. His referral was followed by none other than Grandmistress Jessica Gildre herself, and the lot was rounded out by Lord Herald Arterius Kye, praetor of the Shattered Vales. It was, Vahanian thought, quite the pedigree. With these, Stheno would be welcomed in any court the world over. Her entire future was ahead and he, Vahanian of House Blint, favored allies of House JeVondair, was one of the vanishingly few individuals who had made that possible. Stheno was going to be a power in this world, perhaps even surpassing her mother. Vahanian was certain of it, and his heart swelled with deserved pride at the thought. So lost was he in this revelation that he barely noticed that Stheno was curtsying to him now and grinned.

"Uncle!" He remembered himself, bowed to her, probably lower than a noble should, but he didn't care. Stheno was as close to family to him as his own daughter. He extended his hand and said "Would you grant me the honor?" She giggled at him and took his hand excitedly. Vahanian looked back at Rania and realized that this was a far better gift for her than 'Edict' could ever be. The two friends smiled at one another. A secret passing between them, and a mutual love for the giddy, lively, black-eyed little girl, no, young woman, that was dragging Vahanian to the middle of the dance.

Stehno all but dragged the aged duke to the area of the pavilion that Sir Marcus had ordered cleared for reveling. They cut their way to the floor whirled on him, left hand up and right hand out, ready for a partner. Vahanian bowed to her, a subtle reminder of the proper forms. She blushed prettily at the silent reminder and curtsied to him, and then the music started and they were Stheno and Vahanian raised their arms, intertwining them just above the elbow, as they moved in a circle with the other noble guests, stepping in time with the music.

The tempo picked up as the overture flowed into the first melodies of the music. Up to that point, Stehno’s touch had been feather-light, and she stumbled more than once. But each time Vahanain caught her smoothly. Indeed, the music awakened a strength in the ancient duke that she never suspected. They stepped back, extending their arms, and pulling away, just as Vahanian caught her wrist, leaned her towards the floor before whipping her around in a swirl of laughter and expensive fabric. She spun into his arm and shoulder, before Vahnaian stepped out, and spun her the opposite way. As she did so, she caught a glimpse of the Champion Alacrix Galar as he was announced before the dance drew her back into the fray. At some point, someone had started clapping in time with the music, and before long the entire pavilion was swept up in the song, stomping feet and clanking tankards.

Stheno’s smile was infectious as she danced. If she were being honest with herself, she’d never really seen herself like this: Happy. When she was a girl, she’d always been kept hidden for fear of assassins or even daimons with a grudge against her mother. Every move was watched, every entrance guarded, she thought she’d be smothered for the rest of her life. It’s why she ran away in the first place...to find her own freedom. She never dreamed that her journey to find it would end practically where it began. And it was true, she WAS happy. She’d visited villages FULL of religious folk who wanted nothing more than to see her burn, just for her appearance. Vahanian, her teacher and the closest thing she had to a father, whose mere presence inspired trust. Now here she was in the dancing to the beating rhythm at the heart of the largest new religion in the world, but she felt safe. Now that she’d grown and understood that Rania had just been doing her best to protect her, and would continue protecting her, made her feel foolish for ever having left. Now here she was wearing the most expensive dress she’d ever worn, mingling with the most influential nobility on the continent, and she felt welcome. Her exuberance soared in that moment, and she felt tears threaten her gold-black eyes.

Just then, the music struck its last note and the dancers came to a stop with Stheno and V. The two were breathing heavily from the dance – Stheno more from excitement and surprise, Vahanian more from the sheer struggle of it all. But the old Templar’s vitality did not lag long, and Vahanian pulled her upright, stepped back and bowed to her once more.

The assembled crowd who'd been silent for the entire dance erupted in cheers and applause. Vahanian smiled, gestured to Stheno giving her the attention and praise as he also applauded her, but he was looking to Rania, she smiled at him, applauding with more force than one would expect from the Oracle, but still managing to maintain her dainty aura. She turned her head to the side and Vahanian could have sworn he caught glimpse of a tear streaking down her cheek before she quickly brushed it away. He turned his attention back to Stheno who was revealing in the applause and attention. She curtsied to the assembled people before abandoning all courtly manners and launching herself into Vahanian's arms and hugging him with all her might. He too abandoned the frivolities and "proper" decorum and hugged her back. The dance was for the people, this was for the two of them.

“A new noble?” Rania replied as she clapped, seeming to muse over the question. Her smile widened, eyes flashing as she watched the dance. “Why yes, something like that-”

The dance came to its roaring conclusion. Rania rose smoothly to join those who were already up and applauding. She was aware of those others seeking to speak with her, and those whom she would like to speak with, but she would before the night was through so they both could wait for a moment or too for her to return to her seat.

Edict in hand, its huge sapphire gem flashing, she approached the pair. She wore no veil today, and most of the nobles here had never seen her, much less met her. Nevertheless, nobles parting before her like waves before a ship. The Edict, she concluded, was something of a giveaway. Vahanian grinned broadly as drew close and Rania was astonished and how youthful he seemed now, despite being more than twenty years her senior. She buried the sardonic grin that thought deserved. It would do know could to encourage him lest he contrive some way to get her to dance as well. Instead, she looked at and smiled as she rested her hand on the young woman’s shoulder. Then, in the well-trained orator’s voice that was soft as silk and powerful as a rushing river, she started to speak.

“We have some announcements to make…” “We have an announcement to make…”

The Oracle’s words draped over them like a shawl as she addressed the gathered greats of the Scared Realm, and though Stheno was aware enough to note how quickly and subtly Duke Vahanian had rerouted Marcus’s inquiry, it was secondary as her entire world had narrowed down to that gentle, strong hand upon her shoulder.

“First,” the Oracle continued, “We are grateful to you all for coming and participating in the festivities, and it would be in very poor taste if We did not also acknowledge and celebrate Our Steward, Farseer Marcus, for the role he played in arranging and hosting this entire affair.”

“Second” The Oracle went on, “We would like to welcome, and thank, the men and women who have heeded the call to Jidington and the project to bring the Sacred Realm closer to Our Shattered cousins. If this day is to be a celebration of Our life and accomplishments thus far, then We think it only fitting to place a gaze upon the future and hunger for the deeds yet to be done. You are all essential to realizing a peaceful southern union ‘neath Obeah’s sheltering eye for the good of all Heraldrim.

“Third,” The Oracle continued, “We wish to officially acknowledge Alacrix Galar, formerly of Our own Farseers and fiefdom. Alacrix astounded all by winning the tournament,” The Oracle turned her head to pick out the man in question, and Stheno’s amber-obsidian gaze followed suit. Despite her state, she was interested in what the winner of a knightly contest of arms might look like. “We are grateful that he dedicated his victory to Obeah’s guidance, as is proper. We name him a Champion of Obeah and we hope that he will be able to defend his title when We turn 61…”

There were some chuckles at this, and Stheno had no doubt that Rania was intentionally painted something of a target on Alacrix’s back. It was her style: Those who couldn’t rise up to a challenge she placed before them would make way for someone who could WHILE bettering themselves in the process. She called it “coaching.” And Stheno couldn’t help but remember what happened to some of those that had failed to rise to the Oracle’s expectations, it was a favorite carping point that Uncl…Duke Vahanian loved to go over and over….and over. She hoped the strong-looking Farseer would preserver avoid that fate.

“Fourth, We wish to acknowledge the return of Our dear friend, Kethan D’Espana. Just as his father aided my family and eye in the past, so to as the son don in the present. He is frail now, yes, and close to the Veil, but know that his golden heart is that of a dragon. We tell you now that without this man. We would not be here, none of you would be here. He has come to Us for healing, and he shall have it by all the magic the veiled Goddess has placed at Our disposal. We can count on one hand those who have, knowingly or unknowingly, held the very fate and souls of nations in their hands. For this, we publicly revere him.”

Stheno was surprised and delighted when the Oracle pointed Kethan out. It had been he, she knew, that had rescued Rania from having to give birth on the streets of Fheuvenam. It was he that had been her only childhood friend in the Shattered Vales, and who had helped her to cope with being different. She adored him, but she sensed that the Oracle was not through, and the pavilion was pregnant with silence.

“Finally, a presentation. We wish to introduce this young woman to proper Heraldic society.” The hand tightened on Stheno’s shoulder even as the lungs tightened in her chest. Gently, she was turned to face the crowd of splendid onlookers, and she felt suddenly naked beneath their open curiosity. Rania’s hand gripped softly, reassuringly, and Stheno took strength from the near-invisible gesture. She squared her shoulders and evened her stance. “This is Stheno. The laws of men recognize her as an adventurer-“ With her left hand, Rania produced a small stack of official-looking, wax-stamped documents and held one up “-But Duke Erheas believes that she should be a knight.” She pressed the recommendation to Stheno’s chest and the younger woman took hold of it, but Rania was already holding aloft a second letter. “Duke Vahanian believes she should be a knight.” This, again, was pressed to Stheno’s chest and taken as still another was raised aloft for all to see. Grandmistress Jessica believes she should be a knight. And I-,” Rania said as she turned Stheno around to face the crowd, standing a head taller behind the young woman. Stheno couldn’t have known that it was the first time the Oracle had dropped the royal “We” to which she was entitled, but the stiffening spines, pricking ears, and squaring shoulders of the assembled noblemen was a clear enough indication that if it had never been done, it was extremely unusual. Rania wasn’t speaking as the Oracle now, or even as a Duchess. She was speaking as herself, and even Stheno had to think hard to place the last time she had heard it. “-I know that she was born to be a knight, even if it took her some time to agree. Stheno could almost feel Rania smiling behind her at that and her eyes began to roll before she remembered herself.

“Nobles, Heraldrim, children of Obeah, I this young woman present to this great society. No more shall she be known merely by her given name. This is Stheno of the Eastersand clans, third in line of the House of JeVondair. She is my daughter, and today at last, I am pleased to name her my heir.”

Duke Vahanian was the first to clap and shout his excitement, and others followed suit, must to Stheno’s flushing embarrassment. But Rania was not finished. Stheno again felt the pressure on her shoulder as her mother turned her about to be face to face once more.

“Bow” she commanded, and the Oracle’s voice was back, brooking or accepting no argument. It had been the bane of her existence in her youth, but now she was electrified and her spine seemed to bend of its own accord. The Oracle reached out with a hand, and Vahanian, who had probably been in on this spectacle from the very beginning, was already at hand to pass the Oracle’s Edict to its owner who then ceremoniously touched the massive, uncut sapphire to her left shoulder.

“Do you Stheno of the House JeVondair swear on your blood that you will behave with and uphold the values, traditions, and the noble obligations of your Great House, to remember its winds and its sands and the heat of the sun that forged it?

All Stheno could say was “Yes, I do.”

The Edict moved to tap her left shoulder.

“And do you,” The Oracle continued, “Swear to do all in your power to uphold the articles and conditions of Our faith and fealty before the Veiled Goddess? To bring Her divine word hither and yon, and to impress the peoples of the world by your Service, so that they may know Her cause is Just? To offer yourself, body and soul, as have the members of this august company here assembled to bear witness?”

Stheno felt the eyes of all upon her. Her mouth was impossibly dry and wouldn’t swallow, as if all the moisture ordinarily reserved for it had instead been delivered to the palms of her hands, and she couldn’t tell if it was excitement, anxiety, or fear that caused her voice to crack a little as she confirmed “Y-yes, I do so swear.”

The Edict was withdrawn, and in its place, Stheno felt her mother’s warm hands once more. “Then arise, my child, and embrace me as a Dame of the Heraldrim!” Stehno’ blinked in surprise, her mother never shouted, but the exuberance in her voice was so infectious as to be unmistakable, and Stheno blinked back tears she hadn’t realized were coming until they threatened to fall at that very moment. Rania pulled her in and hugged her tight, and Stheno squeezed back with everything she had. “You have a choice now, my girl. You can stay and help with what has been built here, or you can take ship east to squire under and be trained by the Phoenix Queen and her Duke of Blades.”

Stheno’s eyes widened still further. To be invited to join in the birth of a new nation as a true noble was not something she’d ever expected for herself, but she knew her mother’s plans and they were grand indeed, who knew what she, Stheno, might achieve there? Then again, there were few rocks large enough to live under for one to have never heard of the warriors of Redhaven and the legends that lived among them: A battlequeen who feared neither Time nor Death, an Invincible General, A Mountain that rides, rumors even said elves on more than one occasion. To Stheno, it was as though all the magic in the world were in the East, along with all the heroes she revered. She shot a glance at Vahanian, who merely smiled back. Suddenly, she was certain how Rania had discovered that particular desire of hers.

“Thank you…mom.” She whispered, voice small and heavy with the joyful tears she hadn’t allowed to fall. She didn’t see Rania grin with pleasure before she pulled back and held her mother at arm’s length so she could look into the eyes of the woman was mother to her and, in a sense, to everyone around her. Then her eyes slid over Vahanian and the others present who had only ever showed her kindness and knew that if the decisions was hers to make, it had already been made many times over. Her life was here, her family was here. “Thank you, Oracle,” she said louder and with new confidence. “it would be my honor if you recommended me to serve under such heroes, but I’ve already made my choice. I will stay,” she declared firmly, “and I will help you realize Obeah’s vision. I will see Lord Kethan healed and the Jidington Realm prosper. My fealty hence and always, is given to the Veiled Goddess. I will work Her Will in the world. Just like you!”

And then her voice was lost in the raucous, welcoming cheers of the Sacred Court.

Roleplay from Marcus Daubeny Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (34 recipients) - 4 days, 16 hours, 33 minutes ago "We have seen no knights here arrived to Our shores with the name of House Daubney on their writs of introduction. No recruits from other realms or new noble families brought in by your own." Behind the Oracles gaze Marcus saw it. She was challenging him.

"And so we ask again, Steward of Rines, are you happy in Our employ?"

Marcus looked beyond the veil of the Oracle and stared into her eyes,

“I don’t quite get what you mean my Oracle?”

Was there a correct answer to this question?

“My family lives far away, I brought a few retainers with me but, forgive my ignorance my Oracle but what do you mean by Knights with the name of House Daubeny and recruits form other realms or new families brought in by my own? I am afraid I don’t quite get your meaning”

“But as too wether or not I enjoy being in your employ, I already answered, I do enjoy being in your service, I do hope to one day be more then just a Steward but at the current moment I am happy with my life in Rines.”

He then noticed Duke Blint readying to go, he looked at the Oracle then looked away, he wouldn’t show weakness before his liege, he stood and smiled and offered the Oracle his hand “I see you are readying to leave, by your leave I will go make sure everything is ready to go” he then called over the Scribe “The guests may stay a few hours more then have them return to their tents, if they are too drunk then drag them there”

With that he left the High Table and went outside, he didn’t need to wait long before the Oracle left, her daughter by her side, Marcus nodded and mounted his horse, a Black Stallion, he rode up beside Vahanian.

“If it’s fine with you Duke Blint I will see the Oracle back to the Basilica, it is my duty as host and as a Farseer to ensure her safety”

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (34 recipients) - 4 days, 1 hour, 36 minutes ago Vahanian looked over as Marcus mounted his horse next to him. He didn't need to ask permission, but he did and Vahanian appreciated it. He nodded and said "Aye, stay alert my young friend. The Oracle is well known and loved, but Lady Stheno is not, yet." Marcus looked like he was about to urge his horse forward and Vahanian placed a hand on his arm and said in a low tone.

"If anything happens to either of them, Obeah herself would not be able to subdue my fury and wrath." Vahanian clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth and urged his horse forward at a slow trot.

Roleplay from Marcus Daubeny Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (34 recipients) - 4 days, 1 hour, 22 minutes ago Marcus paled at the Duke's harsh words, he had his hand rest upon, no, the wife Lance was stolen, his hand instead settled on there Dawn Blade, Marcus smiled and spurred his horse forward to ride to the left of the Duke allowing both of them to protect either side of the Oracle need be.

Marcus felt like something was wrong, he looked around and felt on edge, they soon arrived at the Gates of Rines and Marcus waved over a City Watch Commander, "Commander, please have your men keep the crowds back, it may be night but many will try to see the Oracle, we wouldn't want any accidents happening to the Oracle, would we?"

The Commander too paled and quickly had 50 men in from of and around the Carriage of the Oracle.

Marcus felt better, for now

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (34 recipients) - 3 days, 20 hours, 17 minutes ago Thankfully the ride to the Basilica was uneventful. Vahanian had been on edge the entire ride. Something felt off. His right arm tingled where the portal stones of the Violet Storm had exploded and sent shrapnel of magical obsidian flying, searing his arm. His arm always tingled when spellwork was near.

Vahanian wasn't the first into the Solarium, that duty resided with the two Paladins he'd chosen for this task. But he was the third person into the room. He knew the likelihood of an ambush lying in wait in this private chamber to be nearly impossible, but he'd not take that chance, not with so many lives he cared for hanging in the balance.

The Paladins seemed satisfied with the safety of the room quicker than Vahanian would have liked, but he could see why. They checked this room every day. They new its layout far better than he. At his nod the rest of the entourage entered the room. Vahanian moved silently about the room, anticipating what the Oracle would require and gathering it before being bade with a curious effectiveness.

Vahanian stood off to the side of the Oracle, waiting patiently, after the entire entourage had entered the Solarium and at Vahanian's nod the Paladins barred the door and secured it's entrance below the trapdoor. Vahanian resisted the urge to check his weapons, this was a battle that would be fought with will and magic, not steel and strength.

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana Message sent to everyone in Heralds of Obeah (42 recipients) - 3 days, 20 hours ago "Yes, Uncle" She emphasized. "And just who do you think you are, putting all of my business out there for the world to see? Why, I have half a mind to leave you here in my mother's company. You should be grateful," she said, her voice teasing as she elevated her nose and sniffed haughtily, "grateful, I say, that I even remember you with such fondness, long as you've been gone."

The last comment stinged, but Kethan's mood was good and Stheno immediately sweetened the deal with a peck and a hug, perhaps a little too strong for his liking. He understood that she was just teasing him in return, and justly so, so he simply let it slide and smiled as she moved away, likely trying to enjoy the rest of the party. It didn't last long, though, for soon after that dusk arrived and, with it, Rania put an end to the party. Rising up after a short closure speech, she proceeded to leave. Kethan's servant assisted him to do the same, as did Sir Marcus, and Stheno joined the group of nobles that followed in the Oracle's wake, working her way past Vahanian with a tapped shoulder to draw up to Rania's side.

The moon was on the rise when the Oracle's cohort began moving towards the Basilica, Vahanian and Marcus keeping watch. The streets were mostly empty and the two noblemen did good work making way for the carriages, so the journey was short and smooth. Once there, Stheno helped Kethan down his carriage and up to the lifts, which he appreciated with a few whispers of gratefulness. It was late and the day had been long and plentiful in surprises, and he was beginning to feel a powerful need to rest and sleep, as well as a sharp spike in his chronic pain. "Not yet", he groaned quietly. Stheno, still radiant from the party, gripped him a bit harder, which caused another groan.

Thankfully, the lift was there to get to the Solarium swiftly and easily. Vahanian and two paladins checked the room first, after which everyone entered and the door was closed, the paladins guarding it from any danger. Shaking and sweating a little from the effort, Kethan held to Stheno and his crane slightly harder. He could hear the others, breathing, some of them even whispering as they waited for any instructions from the Oracle.

Because, whatever was to happen there and then, only Rania knew for certain.

And so, they waited.

Roleplay from Marcus Daubeny Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (34 recipients) - 3 days, 18 hours, 2 minutes ago Marcus felt very unsettled, when everyone arrived at the Basilica almost all of those in the carriages were surprised to see him and not 3 seconds later he was ushered into the Basilica, its doors were barred and Marcus felt even more unsettled yet all he could do was follow the Oracle.

Now he was in the Solarium, he had never been to the Oracle's Chambers before they were big as he had expected and he then went to stand by the door, he wouldn't be disrespectful by sitting without permission.

Marcus was very curious as to what was happening here, just what was the Oracle planning

Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin Message sent to everyone in Heralds of Obeah (41 recipients) - 2 days, 21 hours, 38 minutes ago Corner of the moving platform was the spot Maura picked, though with the entourage this sizeable any attempt at remaining fairly unnoticeable was preposterous. The humble overcoat hid whatever her evening gown left unhidden, yet she still felt awkward without a proper armour of any sort.

A nod to the other nobles was about as much of a commitment to social decorum as she was willing to make. Instead she turned her focus upwards - to the mechanism that was taking them to the Solarium. Merely a ruse to not get dragged into a conversation turned into genuine interest as she couldn't help but marvel at the ingenious contraption. The lines squeaked as they moved - "thank Obeah I didn't eat that cake" - she whispered her thoughts as if to herself - "though a flower of Obian nobility dying in a lift accident would make one hell of a story."

The Solarium was the architectural marvel of the Holy Basilica of Rines. Placed at the pinnacle of the palatial building’s largest central tower, the Solarium was the highest room in southern Beluaterra. The room was only accessible by a long, wide, winding flight of steps that eventually reached a trap door, now open. Upon emerging, most visitors first notice the Solarium's ceiling and learn how this room got its name. It's ceiling and walls were a latticework of bronze-plated supports and pains of clear glass forming a dome over a room about the size of a dining hall and ringed by a circular balcony that afforded a better view of Rines to those that were brave enough to walk it. A low, comfortable couch sat atop a thick blue carpet set along the western edge sat facing the wooded hills of Athol Margos, poised to welcome the moonrise. Vases and hangings filled with exotic plants were spaced regularly throughout. Arcane symbols had been painted in intricate golden patterns across the stone floor. Today, the furniture that usually occupied the space was missing. In their place, in the very center of the room that was square stone bath filled salt water. The bath itself was large enough four three or even four people to enjoy comfortably, lilly plants bearing small scented candles at their center floated in the cool, clear water. Outside, the night was alight with stars and the rising crescent moon, if not for the lanterns that had been lit for the summit, visitors to the Solarium might get the impression that they were walking among those celestial bodies.

Tonight, was one such night.

The crescent moon rose high over Rines, sailing through a sea of stars and islands of puffy clouds, bathing the white walls of City of Moonlight in with its gentle, cool radiance. Vahanian, satisfied that no dangers lurked in the shadows, took up a guard position with his paladins, arranging their backs to the sky as the selected spots that kept both the trapdoor and the Oracle in sight as she and the rest of the party filtered in. The Duke of Grehk took it upon himself to guide the nobles so they did not crowd what he assumed would be the Oracle’s workspace in the Solarium’s center. Stheno chatted with Kethan, holding the decrepit senior as though he my blow off into the stars at any moment.

The quiet of the Solarium wad broken only by the occasional murmured conversation and the constant wailing of the sea winds as the Oracle prepared her spell.

Along the Eastern-most edge of the Solarium stood an Alter of Obeah. Slabs of marble quarried from the mountains of Bym stacked one atop the other and chiseled with fine details, Heraldic symbols representing the moon, the veil, and magic decorated its top and the edges of each slab. Standing proud atop the altar was a statue of the Veiled Goddess herself, hands outstretched and palm up as if to hold something, her face hooded and unknowable, with fresh roses strewn around a bronze brazier at her feet. Rania reached and flicked her fingers along the runes. There was an audible click and a drawer appeared, inside it was filled end to end with scrolls set neatly in organized rows. Rania selected two: one appeared to be quite common, its vellum and markings appeared similar to many of the others save for the second scroll Rania selected. It was different, seeming somehow more substantial than all the rest. While all the scrolls appeared new as the day they were created, this one seemed…old somehow. Like a gift that had been left behind in a forgotten corner only to be rediscovered years later by its intended recipient.

Rania laid the Edict atop the altar and turned to face the assembled nobles. With a deep, calming breath, she fortified her resolve. She’d been preparing this ritual for months and her Will would need to be absolute, for nothing like what she as about to do had ever been attempted before. With a scroll in either hand, the Oracle turned and lifted her voice:

Obeah guide us. Obeah teach us. Obeah protect us. Obeah deliver us. In your light we thrive. In your mercy we are sheltered. In your wisdom we are humbled. We live only to serve. Our lives are yours.

When Keffa was new and daimons yet walked the world, her nascent group of followers needed something to draw Obeah’s Eye, and so Rania had taken this piece of her childhood and reworked it to suit. It was a simple catechism, the first in Obian Lore, and Rania’s expertly trained voice brought musical notes to the old prayer. She sang it, rather than spoke, with the cadence of a child’s game Rania had learned as a child in D’Hara.

When finished, she placed the heftier scroll into the obian statue’s outstretched hand, where it fit and balanced perfectly. Then she placed the first, common scroll in the brazier and lifted her edict as she turned to face the assembled nobles. With a gesture, she indicated that Kethan should step into the arcane pool.

“We will now begin” The Oracle said at last.

As the Oracle began to sing her prayer in a sweeping contralto, Stheno’s young soprano rose with her. No one asked her to, and she didn’t expect to herself, but it just felt right. As her voice harmonized with her mothers, other singers joined in. Not everyone, the Paladins remained on duty, for example, but many of those who were present and not working followed suit so that by the time the short intonation ended, though it had started with a single voice, it had ended in a chorus! That thought stuck with Stheno as her mother gestured for Kethan to enter the pool.

Stheno was excited, of course. She knew she was about to see her other at work, and that that meant magic! She also believed beyond a shadow of a doubt that her friend and protector would be made whole before night’s end. Her mother, nay, The Oracle, had so promised. Stheno had not left Kethan’s side since they’d arrived at the Basilica. He’d leaned on her the entire ride up the lift, and she was alarmed to find that it had nothing to do with his paternal affection for her. He was that weak. More than once, she thought he might slip off into unconsciousness, so weary did he seem. She’d talked to him, hoping to keep him awake by keeping him engaged as her eye swept the room looking for who might help her if he slipped. The former Grand Inquisitor was here, as was the Steward of Rines and of course the Duke of Grehk. There were others, of course, but those were physically closest to her. So when the Oracle ordered Kethan into the arcane pool before the altar, she looked to them to assist her with easing the old man to rest into the water….

To be blunt, your character stumbled upon the tip of something I have been working on since before this realm was ever founded. I’ve poured a tremendous amount of work and effort into it. This entire enterprise has been a vehicle for this story I am trying to tell. Since you and I butted heads earlier, I felt like you were deliberately trolling me, but as you have avowed that isn’t the case, and your character said what they said, then I am obliged as a story teller to roll with it.

If this is truly coming at you out of the blue, and you were being honest about not understanding why I reacted so offensively, then I must apologize first for my reaction. Secondly, Osrit will have gained a new trait.

Stheno was the second to find her voice behind her mother. Her young, powerful soprano soared through the air and a fierce look of pride shot through Vahanian, his eyes shone with approval and affection for his ward.

Her range awoke something deep within him, he found his resonance a deep, resonating baritone that mirrored his speaking voice, his own range was nothing to scoff at either as he matched Stheno in his lower register. He felt more than saw the Oracle's eyes shoot open as he found his pitch and she stared at him for a moment, be it amazement and wonder, or merely pride and affection that she sent his way via her gaze, Vahanian knew not, his eyes were closed for this moment, he was focused on the voices.

As the chorus came to an end Vahanian opened his eyes and remained the vigilant sentinel scanning the room and ensuring the safety of it's occupants.

Maura noticed the request in Stheno's gaze and with but a couple of steps she was at her side. She took Kethan's arm and upon what seemed like a groan had to remind herself that it is a sickly man she's handling, not what or who she usually lifts.

She slightly nodded at Stheno and said:

"At your call, m'Lady..."

While Rania prepared everything, Kethan kept his eyes closed and tried to rest a little bit leaning somewhat onto Stheno, who clinged onto him as if he was about to disappear at any moment. He listened to the sounds of both nature and man as the wind surrounded the Solarium and the gathered noblemen whispered and shifted their weight from one leg to the other. He knew the Solarium and its composition because Rania had taken him there and explained it to him, shortly after his arrival and after her offering to reside in the uppermost levels of the Basilica.

Stheno tried to keep her composure, excited about the procedure and worried about Kethan as she was. She tried her best to keep him awake and focused, but she could see that he was struggling quite a bit to remain alert, nearly dozing off every now and again. It was with the utmost care she shook him gently to encourage him to resist, after which he tried to look where he thought her face was, whispering softly.

- "Stheno, I... I'm not feeling very well. I very much trust Lady Ran... your mother."- he stopped, struggling to breathe properly - "But if something... goes wrong, I very much want you to remember that the only thing I regret is not having been there for all these years."

She complained again, refusing to even acknowledge the possibility of failure and hugging him gently, reminding him she was there for him and that she wouldn't let anything go wrong.

- "It's just in case, my dear. And also in that slim chance... If anything happens, hold tight to Vahanian and your mother." - his blind eyes went to where he heard Vahanian, moving around to place everyone so that they couldn't disturb the ritual and the movement of the Oracle - "They love you very much, and you are precious to both of them. Enjoy their company and wisdom, and seek for a righteous man that is worthy of your hand. I bet Lord Blint will be happy to scrutinize everything about them for you."

The click and ruffling of scrolls indicated the ritual was about to begin. Smiling one last time, Kethan softly squeezed Stheno's hand.

- "To my recovery and your happiness, Stheno."

When Rania's prayer began, Kethan tried his best to follow it in wheezing whispers, though his voice was completely surpassed by Rania's, Stneno's and Vahanian's, as well as the others participating in the chorus. Once it ended, Rania placed the scrolls in their appropriate positions and spoke simply and directly.

- "We will now begin."

At her call, Stheno looked around for assistance and found Maura's, who stepped in to help Kethan into the arcane pool. Not expecting her, Kethan could not avoid a groan when her strong grip grasped his arm, after which she immediately softened the pressure.

- "At your call, m'Lady..."

Kethan didn't feel ready, uneasy due to his lack of knowledge about Rania's chosen method, but he had complete trust in the Oracle and nodded twice to signify his acceptance. Understanding by the context what was about to happen, he could only hope that they would remove his outer garments before helping him into the pool, for they were heavy enough that, should they be sodden with water, he very much doubted he could stand on his feet. Handing his cane to Stheno, he held tight to both women, trying his best to stay calm and face the ritual with befitting dignity.

- "I am prepared."

Stheno blinked back tears. She did not know what had caused Kethan to speak so morosely, but something in his regretful tone touched her deeply, forcing her to blink back tears. It sounded so…so final. She wanted to scold him more vehmently, she should have, but she stopped herself. She did not even wish to acknowledge what he’d said as a possibility. Rather than answer, she merely kissed his wrinkled, liver-spotted forehead as she rose. She nodded her thanks to Maura, still somewhat intimidated by the larger, more powerful woman. Together, the pair of them guided Kethan into the pool, clothes and all. It was cool at room temperature, but not shockingly so, and the even Kethan grew accustomed to it as the women lead him deeper. Their beautiful party dresses floated behind them as they brushed candlelillies aside and, with great care, lowered Kethan to a sitting position. The water reached up to his throat and he sighed, relieved at the weight the water removed from his care.

Her mother had explained some of what was to happen, and so Stheno knew to exit the pool. She kissed Kethan on the brow before, holding his cane, she lifted one sodden leg out of the water, then the other. “Please” she said to Maura, indicating that the other woman should follow suit. She held out her hand to Maura. As she did, Maura’s eyes met her black and gold ones and Stheno could not block the sudden memory of the first time they’d met and Maura had very nearly stolen Stheno’s life not a meter from where they now stood. Unbidden, the thought came that she should withdraw and offer Maura no kindness. But she resisted the urge and resolutely left her hand out and available should the former Grand inquisitor need it.

Vahanian watched the events unfold, he could see his dear friend's frailty as plain as day and it shook him to his core. When he'd first met Kethan, the man had been wracked with illness but was still a titan, a man who commanded absolute loyalty and got it without question. He'd been, friend and mentor to Vahanian and now he was holding onto life by a mere thread.

He watched Stheno and Maura help him into the pool and saw the look and memory shudder through Stheno. He remembered the force of Maura's attack and how he had very nearly dueled her to death in this very room for her assault on Stheno. It would have been an undeserving death regardless of the outcome and he was eternally grateful it had not come to that. He couldn't suppress the instinct, the carnal urge to ready himself. With his left thumb he slid his sword from it's sheath by a mere centimeter, never taking his eyes from Stheno and Maura. He knew it was irrational, he knew there was no danger from his friend to his ward and yet he couldn't help himself. He hated it. He wished he could stop, irrationality had no place here, but he was unable to stop, it was visceral, carnal, and purely instinctual.

Rania prepared her spells and Vahanian's right arm tingled. It always tingled when magic was near at hand, he remembered with vivid sensitivity the portal stones exploding in his hands and searing his arm, during the violet storm. His arm felt that same scorching feeling it always did and then it subsided. In his mind, his heart, and his body he felt something. Familiar presence. The touch he would recognize anywhere, the weight of the hand, the firmness of the grip, the slimness of the fingers and the power of the palm all in a simple, light touch. Everything about it was Rania. He'd felt that touch on his arm countless times, each time the message was the same. Each time it was her way of telling her ever protective friend, 'There is no danger here.' He could see The Oracle from the corner of his eye, he knew her hand was not actually on his arm, but he felt it's presence their all the same.

At the same time, a voice, that voice that could halt a maelstrom, that voice that could melt glaciers and make him feel totally vulnerable despite his arms and armor. That voice that had the singular ability to make him stop, to make his heart flutter, and his stomach turn. Katerina. His beloved late wife. She'd died many years ago and had started him down the path that eventually led him here, to this moment. Her voice was in his mind, it simply said "Peace, my love. Peace." Vahanian made a valiant attempt and fending off the tears that welled in his eyes, unbidden. He contained them all but a single drop. A single tear streaked down his cheek and through his beard dropping from his facial hair onto his left hand. The weight of it was immeasurable and he felt himself react, he felt his hand relax and his sword return fully to it's sheath. His gaze never left Stheno and Maura, but he no longer felt the need to launch a preemptive attack against the lethal inquisitor. His place was here, to maintain the safety of the solarium, not to intervene, not yet.

He watched Maura accept the hand offered and the two women climbed from the pool, as the exchange between them concluded, Vahanian felt himself fully relax, no longer on the same edge he'd been moments before. The breeze through the room chilled the air, he could only imagine the discomfort those two must be feeling. Their dresses clung to their bodies and accentuated their natural curves and features. Vahanian's eyes tracked Maura as she drifted to the side of the room, she caught his gaze and he gave her a slight nod to a desk against the wall she stood near, atop that desk - Vahanian had placed several thick fur cloaks. Weather Maura chose to don a cloak or not was her choice entirely, but Vahanian made the silent offer all the same.

When Stheno and Maura left him, sitting inside the pool, head barely standing above the cool water, Kethan's uneasiness began to dissipate. The water supporting his weight was nice, no doubts about that, but the real source of that sudden calm was most definitely something else.

He had suffered for so, so long. Ever growing pain and fatigue had been his escorts for the better part of the last 25 years, and he was more than willing to leave them behind, one way or the other. Giving a final thought to those that had always been there for him, he held to their memories as a way to soothe himself even further. Stheno, Rania, Vahanian, Ehrich. Even Owain and Ravyn, such a long time ago. They had taken care of him, and he was lucky enough that, in this most important day, the first three were there with him. Watching him, keeping him safe, healing him, trusting in him. Loving him, each one on their own, unique way.

"It is time. Let me meet my fate. If you're really there, Obeah... please take care of them all."

Uncle Kethan is just being...dramatic. Stheno told herself as he sank deeper into the water. Stheno's own dress, the same one in which she'd danced so joyfully with Vahanian, was now soaked to her waist. Lady Maura dripped as well, but showed no outwards sign of discomfort as Kethan completed what sounded far too much like a goodbye. She wanted to scold him for the melodrama, he'd studied the Arcane so long that he seemed incapable of anything else, but it would have to wait as Rania strode forward, scroll-laden brazier swinging from a golden chain in one hand, her new Edict staff in the other.

Stheno couldn’t shake a feeling she’d had since noticing Kethan’s arrival back during the tournament. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it, like a familiar fragrance made up of many forgotten scents. There was anxiety, or was it excitement? She was on edge, she knew that, and tried to remember the calming excerises Vahanian had taught her on the training mats. It worked, her breathing was even and her heart rate normal, but wisps of the feeling still remained, like fog refusing to be burned away. She decided it was her nerves after all. Maybe she was worried this wouldn’t work? That sounded closer to the mark, and her mother had said on more than one sermon that even a grain of doubt can ruin a great work of faith. What if her doubt caused the magic to fail? Then again, no one had believed in her mother or her Veiled Goddess in the beginning, and the Oracle had gone spell for spell with archdaimons. That had to be a more trying experience than this, right? Stheno released the breath she had not realized she was holding.

Now that she was closer, Stheno could see that the scroll was one that was meant to summon the undead. She’d stumbled across many such scrolls in her time and suppressed a shudder as the Oracle opened it. Then she realized that Rania was…humming? She was…her notes discordant, yet her expression was intent, searching, as though seeking to harmonize with an unheard melody

As the Oracle’s tune wound around the chamber, the arcane runes on the scroll’s surface began to glow…

Rania was pleased.

She'd made the study of magic her life, in Obeah's name, and rarely encountered a worthy opportunity to but the results of that effort on display as she hummed her aimless tune. For her, magic was like music. Every scroll, sage, enchanted weapon, even monsters, all of them vibrated with their own unique magical tones, and Rania had learned to use her voice in tune with her magical intuition, granted by many years of casting many spells, to map those vibrations as a blind man might use his cane to map out the trappings of a room. Signing the prayer had merely been a warmup. When she unwrapped the scroll and began to read, an invisible spark jolted from the vellum, forming a link with her that only she could perceive. The perception of magic, she'd learned, was unique for everyone. People naturally saw, related to, and interpreted its energy differently, not unlike how warriors from different groups or nations might have various styles or theories on fighting. All were valid, and more or less effective tools. For Rania, her tool was her voice, it had been ever since she'd discovered the affinity within her long ago on the day her daughter had been born...

Rania began and the bottom of her range, mentally probing the scroll to unlock the harmony within. It was a simple matter for her, as summoning undead was an unfortuantely-simple spell. She'd chosen it precisely for its simplicity. As she hummed its activation, she set the scroll alight, burning it. Instead of ash, sparkles of power rose from it on the updrafts of the fire like twinkles of starlight. This was not Rania's power, or Obeah's but the magic of whatever witch or mystic had first crafted the loathsome scroll. Shining as they did, the magical motes seemed harmless, indifferent, even pretty. From what Rania knew and taught of magic, all mana, or arcane energy, was essentially neutral. Like a sword, it could be put to use for both good and evil. And, like a sword, was inert without a powerful will to wield it. Rania was no sage mystic, she lacked the immense skill required to actually craft even the most common of scrolls, but she had learned how to reverse engineer them, at least in a manner of speaking. As the mana released from the scroll, activated but aimless, Rania caught as many as she could with her bare hand, then pressed them to the rough-hewn sapphire gemstone that capped her Edict. As she did, her melody changed, growing louder, though still wordless as she shifted the ritual form of her spell. instead of using the link she'd established to complete the spell's activation, she instead redirected as much of its power as she could into the stone. Many of the little twinkles slipped through her fingers and winked out, angling like meteorites from her grasp and disappearing through the stone of the floor into the city below. Rania sighed as she noticed, there would be undead moaning through the catacombs this night, but only a few and nothing that her 'pets' couldnt handle, she reminded herself as the stone began to glow.

It pulsed blue with power, beating like Obeah's own heart, and Rania smiled as she reversed the staff to angle top-down toward the floating Kethan. Her hum had grown into a full blown crescendo, her well-trained orator's voice sweeping in cascading whirl as she plunged the Edict's power-loaded sapphire into the water. The candlilies bloomed with life energy as the water itself began to glow with a calm, blue-tinged white, enveloping Kethan from head to toe for a glorious moment and he gasped with sensation as her spell went to work. Rania had spent many long hours and desperate experiments to create this spellform. Kethan's affliction was magical in nature, but somehow rooted to his physical body. So, Rania had determined that the best way to beat it would be to reverse his physical age and hope that would unhook whatever curse he was suffering under. A Fountain of youth scroll might have worked for the purpose, but her cousin the Phoenix Queen had used the only one Rania had ever heard of, and even if she hadn't that had been on the East continent, and for all the Oracle's influence and servants on Beluaterra, not one of them had found one for her, and so she'd had to become....creative, resulting in this spell.

Kethan gasped as the magic enveloped him. But this was Rania's magic now, and its warmth would do no harm. Slowly, wrinkles and liver spots began to fade, but too soon, the glow diminished as the magic was used up. What youth he had regained slowly slipped away from him as the spell died. The scroll of undead, it seemed, was too weak after all...

With a determined expression, Rania turned for the second mysterious scroll...

At first Marcus had his doubts, Marcus knew the goal of the Heralds was to use magic to bring Obeah into this world, but was magic truly real, he thought not but as he stood there in the light of the rising moon and the light of the magic the Oracle cast, Marcus knew, he was wrong.

The Oracle sung beautifully but there was a power behind her voice, the scroll the Oracle had sparked and glued and soon her Edict staff glowed blue with a great power, not great enough it would seem as after the Oracle plunged the staff into the water and its power engulfed Kethan, he seemed younger for a second but he quickly reverted back to the older man Marcus had known for a few hours, the Oracle then turned to pickup a new scroll, the second one Marcus had spied when the Oracle picked a few up.

Marcus wondered for a moment, would he ever cast magic? most likely not but perhaps after this was over he could ask the Oracle to teach him.

“Hmm, I need more power” Rania mused aloud. Though she was speaking to herself, lost in the haze of an artist at work, her words were audible enough, at least to her own ears. Unlike others now gawking at her latest failure. Lesson, she chided herself mentally. There were no failures, only lessons. And This one had taught her that the claws of Kethan’s affliction sank deeper than she realized.

Magic was the true treasure and might of the Sacred Realm, highly prized, and scrolls themselves were…tethered to their owners. A single caster could only hold so many on their person at a time, lest the conflicting magics of their presence combine to cause spontaneous reactions that set the scrolls off without any attention, or control, by the caster. As Oracle, Rania had been collecting scrolls for many years and was often forced to pass them along to her underpriests. It was safer that way, for the continued safety of the people of Rines. Unfortunately, what it meant is that she had few scrolls on hand to be sacrificed in the manner she had.

Rania’s lips formed a thin, determined line on her face as she hefted the other scroll and made to repeat the experiment. Her eyes caught Stheno’s for just a moment. This has already gone on too long, damn the risks…She thought, both of the ceremony and of the long-suffering Kethan as brandished the scroll she’d hoped she wouldn’t have to use…

Stheno saw the look in her mother’s eye as theirs met. The hungriness she saw their chilled her, but it wasn’t until her mother brought the scroll closer that Stheno’s back went rigid. The others might not recognize the item in the Oracle’s hand, but she’d did. A Scroll of Miracle…. very old and very powerful. So much so that no one quite knew what it did, or even how to use it. Stheno’s heart began to hammer, playing a staccato beat against her ribcage as her anxiety spiked. The hair along her forearms and the back of her neck stood on end as the Oracle began to hum…

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana Message sent to everyone in Heralds of Obeah (43 recipients) - 1 day, 21 hours, 24 minutes ago While Kethan rested in the water and once Maura and Stheno had vacated the pool, Rania began to hum. The first scroll she had chosen, capable of summoning undead, began to glow as she started the ritual to unleash its power. However, instead of allowing its magic to operate normally, she began capturing some of the magical energies unleashed and concentrating them on the stone of her staff. Pulsating blue with power, her hums directed the stored arcane force to the water, and Kethan gasped audibly as the blue-tinged white glow enveloped him and everything within the pond. He felt... renewed. Fresh, young, made whole again. He could practically feel decades of abuse and degeneration being lifted off his shoulders, leaving him reluctantly as Rania's magic pushed them away as a mother shoves the pains of the day away from her child with a gentle kiss on the wound.

It was... fantastic. But sadly, it was not to last. An unknown amount of time that felt way too short to him later, it was all gone. The sudden return of his usual aches was more cruel and demolishing after having felt their absence, even if only for a few seconds, and a growing hopelessness settled in his heart. Hearing Rania shuffling a new scroll, he began to calm himself as he understood that it was far from over, And simply repositioned himself a little so as to endure the next attempt of the Oracle.

- "Hmm, I need more power”.

Rania’s lips formed a thin, determined line on her face as she hefted the other scroll and made to repeat the experiment. Her eyes caught Stheno’s for just a moment, and the daughter went rigid as she recognized the scroll that her mother was about to unleash. A Scroll of Miracle…. very old and very powerful. So much so that no one quite knew what it did, or even how to use it. When the Oracle began to hum once again, Kethan closed his eyes and, breathing heavily, waited for what was inevitably coming.

Roleplay from Kluthruel (Personal message to Stheno) - 1 day, 21 hours, 16 minutes ago The night was already well settled in when he felt something. Something coming from afar, way, way up in the massive building where the call had guided him. It had been a long wait but, whatever it was, it had already begun. The tension was barely discernible, but no doubt it was there.

He groaned, his eyes frantically moving around the area. Yes, the time was close. He would better be ready...

Rania sang her spellwork once again as she prepared to make use of the miracle scroll. To the best of her knowledge, none could even read its arcane words, much less use them, and appropriating the power within had never before been attempted. Still, after the failure of the previous scroll, and the brevity of its effects, she knew now that no lesser scroll would do. To save her friend, to enact a true miracle worthy of the mystics, she needed a miracle. Having spent long hours in meditative contemplation and prayer over the preceding months, seeking the guidance of her patron, Rania had come into possession of the scroll of miracle, and in it, she perceived the hand of Obeah. This was the answer to her prayers.

Outwardly, it appeared little different from any of the other scrolls she’d handled in the past. It was more substantial though, seeming fuller, heavier than what she was accustomed to. In her current state, effused with the ebbing energies of her previous attempt, she could sense the power emanating in pulsing waves from the scroll. Power that all but dwarfed the others, as if the Titans themselves had been bound up in its mysterious depths. Sedentary and as beautiful to her as fresh snow atop a mountain. At that thought, however, her expression darkened as she considered what all that snow might do to her if it came all at once. The resulting avalanche would surely claim her life, at least, and perhaps all those in the Solarium. For a spellcaster of lesser skill, the task would be inconceivable. Not so for the Oracle of Obeah. Rania had gone spell for spell against an archdaimon, she been the vessel for the power of a god, albeit briefly. She had cast nearly every sort of spell in existence. Despite the risk, she was more than confident of her capabilities.

Rania’s song rose in pitch as she prepared to siphon ritual. With a crescendo, she lit a side of the scroll, and for a brief moment, her vision turned white…

At first, Stheno did not realize what had happened. Everything had gone white, there was an explosive whomp that had hurled her from her feet. Her ears rang with the force of it. For a brief eternity, all she could hear was the whine of her assaulted eardrums, all she could see was white. As Stheno groaned and began to sit up, wincing at unexpected pain. She’d realized her head had struck the floor hard enough to daze her. She felt with her fingers, grimacing as she found the cut above her right temple. Her hearing was first to recover. Shouts of alarm and pained groans were the first sounds she recognized. Beneath those was a crackling, bubbling sound she couldn’t readily identify. She rolled over, bringing herself to her hands and knees and focused on getting one foot under her, then another, her vision slowly resolving as she did so. The first thing she saw was the floor, then her hands on her knees. She blinked her black-gold eyes rapidly, clearing her vision and breathing heavily as adrenaline coursing through her. Her head was still throbbing from the impact, and she was careful as she lifted her head, and cried out at the sight that greeted her.

“MOM!”

The Oracle of Obeah was sheathed in crackling power, her face a rictus of suffering as eldritch energies lightninged through and around her in arcs of white-hot fury. She’d plunged her Edict into the water just above Kethan’s head, and Stheno gasped as she realized it hadn’t been a bubbling she’d heard, but a boiling! Steam hissed from the pool. Candlelillies burned or floated as ravaged husks. Kethan screamed, his skin was glowing, despite the blast, the spell was working! But Stheno’s relief was short lived as she looked at the Oracle more closely. All of Rania’s visible muscles stood taught, her chest was heaving and her body shuddered with mana that coruscated from her toes to her brow, down her staff and into the pool. Sweat poured from her brow, only to evaporate near-instantly. She was bleeding, her wounds evident as spots and rivults of red stained her white robes. Stheno cried out again and in greater alarm as she saw the burns. Lightning snapped around the Oracle, caressing her like a brutal lover, burning her where it touched. Stheno saw that the scroll was entirely vanished, and the large, rough-hewn sapphire that had once crowned the Oracle’s Edict was gone with it, shattered to pieces. Stheno gasped as realization dawned on her. Even the massive gemstone couldn’t contain the power of the scroll. It must have burst, which explained the force that had bowled Stheno over. With no where to go, what hadn’t bled away into the either had instead rebounded on the Oracle, and she was taking the full force of it on her own.

Mere seconds had passed since the casting had begun.

Stheno was the first of the assembly to get back to her feet and recognize what had happened. Without another thought, she ran toward her mother, if she could just grip her mother’s Edict, share the burden, then maybe…but she skidded to a stop as lightning lashed at the stone before her feet. She looked up, and saw that Rania was looking right at her, tears in her face as she struggled to contain the mighty force she had unleashed. Everything was in the Oracle’s eyes: her love, her pain, her determination, her fear. It was all plain to Stheno, and all of it said STAY AWAY. The Oracle closed her eyes then, resigning herself to her task and, it seemed to Stheno, her fate. The scent of burning hair and boiling flesh assaulted her nostrils, and Stheno was given the barest insight into the future. It was just the briefest flash, but it had been enough.

The Oracle of Obeah would die here, now, right in front of her. Her mother would be burned alive, and the man that had been a father to her would boil and drown, claimed by the uncontrolled power of the scroll of miracle. In an instant, everything, everything would be undone and no earthly power would stop that now.

No earthly power...the thought rolled around Stheno’s mind like an unending echo, a lighthouse’s spark of hope piercing the storm of despair. She could not get to the Oracle, her mother would not risk Stheno sharing in her fate. Nor could Stheno draw Kethan from the boiling pool, lest she burn and drown herself. But Stheno was not helpless. She was her mother’s daughter.

She knelt and withdrew the Portal Stones from hidden pouches about her person…

For years, the Oracle of Obeah had made public her desire to obtain and study portal stones. Every adventurer from Holy Rines to Shattered Fhuevenam knew this well. Nevertheless, even through her pain and concentration, Rania felt surprise as her daughter knelt and began to arrange them. Stheno had mentioned nothing of the sort, and Rania groaned in very real pain as she understood. They were surely meant to have been a surprise birthday gift, and as Rania watched her daughter worked, pride mingled with despair. Stheno’s movement were quick, confident, and intuitive. She was feeling the magic of the stones, they were speaking to her, in their way, telling her where to place what as she worked, a trick the girl had learned at her mother’s knee during the Violet Calamity. She wanted, more than anything, to tell her daughter to run, to flee, to stop and make herself safe, but it was all she could do to remain upright. If she faltered now, if she allowed her mind to splinter further, she would lose the spell and, she had no doubt, the lives of everyone in this room. She couldn’t speak, she couldn’t warn her daughter, couldn’t coach her, couldn’t tell her how much she loved her.

Then she heard a voice. One she thought she recognized, and her despair magnified a hundredfold.

It is time.

The Oracle of Obeah managed to shriek.

The stones were speaking to her now. She’d done just as her mother had shown her. She opened herself to them, she hummed, as if trying to harmonize with a melody only she could sense, just as her mother had taught her, and focused her will upon the stones. She appeared to move at random, placing them at odd intervals resembling more a constellation rather than the circle her mother had arranged them in when she’d used such stones before. But somehow the irregular pattern, if it could be called that, felt more right to Stheno as she called upon them. She lost herself in her work, closing her mind to everything but the stones themselves, leaning close to them as though that might improve her hearing. Pain focused her. Fear focused her. Love focused her, and she wished with all her heart to save the people she loved.

Then, she was somewhere else…

There was no transition, no dramatic flair. One moment she’d been in the Solarium, torn asunder by bursts of uncontrolled magic, then…nothing. All was quiet, and Stheno raised her head. As far as she could see, there was nothing. No room, no stone, no people, just an endless expanse of grey, tinged with pretty purples and pinks along what she assumed was the horizon line, but there was no sun, no true sky, just…grey.

Stheno stood, somewhat surprised to find that her head still hurt, even in…whatever this place was. She reached up and found that she was still bleeding from the head wound. She looked down, she was still wearing the dress she’d worn to the Oracle’s Birthday, and the portal stones were still arranged at her feet. She leapt back in a yell.

The stones were glowing. Not only that, but bright traces of power now linked them in an unfamiliar symbol that pulsed like a heartbeat. With a start, Stheno realized it was in time with her heartbeat.

“What is this?” She said allowed, more challenge in her voice than wonder. She was scared, she was confused, but she hadn’t forgotten what she’d been doing. “Whatever this is, Send me back!”

OH DEAR, ARE YOU QUITE SURE? A voice roared from everywhere and nowhere at once. Despite the innocent words, the power with which they were delivered brought Stheno to her knees, clutching at her head, screaming. The roar seemed to last forever. Then, just as suddenly as it began, it stopped.

Oh dear, sorry about that, child. Stheno simply whimpered, gasping for breath.

Oh dear, was sorry not enough? Your mortal facilties will return in time.

“I…who is this?” Stheno demanded.

Oh dear, who? Who is but the form following the function of what and what this is is an answer to your prayers, dear child. The voice seemed amused.

“What? I…I don’t understand. My Head…”

Oh dear…Didn’t you wish, with all your heart and soul, for a way to save your mother?

Clarity returned to Stheno in a cold rush. “Yes” she said simply. Her voice was small, pained but clear. “But how did you-“

Oh dear…your thoughts are free for all to see, there are no secrets here, child. The voice continued. Now, This is the part where you make your offer.

“Offer?” Stheno looked down and around at all the nothing. “Offer what?”

Oh dear, the voice responded, your actions thus far were merely enough to gain notice. More is needed to gain your hearts desire.

Stheno sensed..something…and a vision appeared before her. It was her vision, the glimpse of the future. Everything was burning. Everyone was dead. “Stop it!” Stheno cried, “Stop it, stop it please!”

Oh dear…you needn’t shout, your soulthoughts are loud and clear. These deaths…something you wish to avert, no?

“Yes.” Stheno managed through the gritted teeth. “Yes” she said again, more loudly, and sensed approval.

Oh dear…then what will you give in exchange, hmm?

Stheno pondered this. She wished she were dreaming, but even her nightmares couldn’t have come up with this scenario. She felt panic rising in her mind, and knew two things with abrupt certainty: If she failed to gain the help she sought, all would be lost. And if she offended…whatever the voice was, the end result would be the same. But what did she have? She had nothing of value to give, not to the voice, not to anyone. All she had was the now-ruined dress she wore.

Oh dear…you have SO much more than that. Perhaps it should simply be taken. You’re not using it are you? …

Stheno didn’t know how she knew, but she felt a presence reaching for her and her panic blossomed. “Back off!” She growled, centering herself for a fight just as Vahanian had taught her. The presence was still encroaching. “I SAID BACK OFF!” Stheno screamed, and the diffuse light went dark around her for a moment, golden light radiating from her as she poured all her helplessness and fury out.

Oh dear…so you are using it afterall. Would you give yourself willingly in order to spare their lives?

There was no deception in the voice, just a n easy, curious confidence, and Stheno knew deep down in her soul that nothing would ever be the same no matter what she answered.

“All of them?” She asked, and her voice was resigned, and she felt the presence’s affirmation vibrating through the either around her. Stheno, the girl that had run away from home to live a life of adventure, hunting thins, saving people, who had risked herself for the greater good time and time again already knew how she would answer.

She was her mother’s daughter.

Oh dear…you must say the words aloud, you know. And the words appeared in her mind.

Stheno did not hesitate “I give myself freely, willfully, and without reservation in exchange for that which I seek. Make so my wish, and I relinquish my fate.” She closed her black-gold eyes and saw no more.

A Shower of Glass message to everyone in Heralds of Obeah - 5 minutes ago The stones Stheno set begin to glow with a pale blue light. However, something is wrong. Some shift from blue to an angry red. Sparks fly between the blue stones and the red. Arcs of multicolored energy fly about the Solarium, some striking the pool, some streaking past those gathered there and grounding out in the walls. The stones flicker back and forth between red and blue, as if a battle is taking place there. All the while, a high-pitched whine grows louder and louder.

Stheno seems eerily unaware of all of this. Her lips move soundlessly, as if she is speaking to someone—or something—no one else can see.

Then a loud report fills the air. The stones have begun to expand, and a crack has appeared in one of them, streaming multicolored light, as if something within is trying to escape! Another stone cracks, then another! The high-pitched whine grows so loud it is unbearable! Whatever is emanating from the stones hisses in a rising tone....

Before there is time for anyone to react to this, the portal stones all detonate. The Solarium itself explodes, every pane of glass shattered in an instant. Everyone present is hurled backward, and clings for their lives to whatever they can grab onto, before being knocked senseless.

• * *

Stheno opens her eyes. Her vision is hazy, blurry. The first thing she sees is the Oracle, slumped over the form of Kethan in the pool. The water in the pool is gone, and both people have scratches and cuts on their bodies from flying shards of rock and glass, but they were relatively well protected by being below the lip of the pool.

Stheno looks down at her own body and realizes that she was not so lucky. Blood trickles from dozens of wounds. Her left arm hangs limp, and the shoulder screams when she touches it. Her right leg feels...wrong, and won't support much weight.

A shard of portal stone sits in a small pool of her blood beside her. Where stone touches blood, blue energy crackles. Stheno smiles.

Using her right arm, she crawls over to the center of where she set the portal stones. Taking a large, sharp shard, she slices into her useless left hand, then wets her right hand's first two fingers in the blood.

Slowly, painfully (why does it hurt to breathe? and what's that odd bubbling, crackling feeling?), she paints a design in her blood that exactly mimics the arrangement of portal stones from just minutes ago. When she finishes the design, closing it upon itself, it shimmers with bluish-purple energy.

She takes the largest piece of portal stone remaining and slams it down in the center of the design, covered in her blood.

Above it, a tear appears in the air. On the other side is a strange landscape, with a dark sky and a faintly-glowing horizon.

A form stands before the portal. A hand beckons to Stheno.

Unsteadily, she stands. She takes two steps, and falls through the portal.

All is darkness.

• * *

The Oracle opens her eyes. Everything is too bright, and it's hard to focus, especially with someone bashing her head with a hammer like that.

With difficulty, she stands, and looks around.

The Solarium now supports itself solely by the bronze framing. The pool in the center is completely dry.

And beside the pool, within an irregular shape drawn in her own blood, lies the body of Stheno, utterly unmoving. Too still. Her eyes are open and staring.

Her mouth is curved in a slight smile.

Roleplay from Kluthruel (Personal message to Rania Eastersand JeVondair) - 5 days, 13 hours, 2 minutes ago Some creatures in this world have better affinity to magic than others. Average humans rank consistently in the lower part of the scale, that for sure. Some undead, however...

Kluthruel felt the massive surge of arcane energy significantly before it tore apart the Solarium, at the very top of the Basilica. Watching with open mouth and wide eyes, he saw from the street the gargantuan shockwave that destroyed the glass enclosure, completely ignorant of what could have caused such level of destruction. The answer became increasingly clear as the Call got exponentially louder, almost deafening any further reasoning from the depths of his mind.

"Well, mah mastah's right once again. Have t'look round'n ask fer rumors, but not now. T'is about t'become a very, very bad place t'be."

Moving away from the area, he did his best to goo unnoticed by the hundreds of guards converging at the lower stairs of the Basilica. Screams all around and incredulous faces summed up very well what he felt about the situation, though he knew very well that his master had decided to make him see that for a reason.

Roleplay from Alacrix Galar Message sent to everyone in Heralds of Obeah (43 recipients) - 5 days, 11 hours, 50 minutes ago Alacrix watched transfixed as the Oracle began to cast her spell. He remembered when he first came to Rines to be a noble he wanted nothing more than to learn how to perform magic. After a decade he had yet to cast a single spell. Well on purpose, he thought. There was that one time when he had to many scrolls and one might have gone off. But that was old news and he never counted it as being a spell he casted.

Even though he only knew a little about rituals he had a sense this was going...ok. He noticed the Oracle pulling out another scroll. This one seemed to radiate such power that even Alacrix could not ignore it. Everything became different. Energy began to crackle then corse throughout the Oracle's body. The pool began to boil. Alacrix could not begin to compare the magical forces at play but he knew this was not good.

Alacrix sought out Maura. He knew one thing Maura might know what was going on. If she didn't then at least I will be with her if we die, he could help keep the thought from his mind. Just then multicolored arcs of energy began to streak across the Solarium. He had time to look over and see Maura before the explosion hit him and then the darkness came.

He awoke to find Maura. Relief washed over him when he saw her stirring. Then heard a sound that would haunt him for the rest of his life. It was the sound of someone wailing but not just anyone. It was the Oracle. Alacrix thought the woman could not be shaken. He thought her so in control that she would never show an ounce of emotion, unless it was her plan to. Now he saw her cradling the body of her child. One that he was introduced to only moments ago.

Dumbfounded and not really knowing how to act he looked to Vahanian. He remembered seeing him dance with her in the hall. He must be in so much pain right now. What can I even do for them? I have never known loss this great, nor love that deep. These thoughts raced through his mind. The only thing he could think of was to help Maura up and then brace for what was to come.

Roleplay from Maura Arnickles Renodin Message sent to everyone in Heralds of Obeah (43 recipients) - 4 days, 20 hours, 48 minutes ago Familiar tickles of eldritch energy preceded the magical explosion that obliterated the Solarium and left most of the present nobles unconscious.

A mind rising from slumber perceives time differently, of which Maura was acutely aware, and so she took the sweet drawn-out seconds of awakening to recall her observations at the instant of the calamity. It reminded her of a dead theatre the Earl used to play with her - the memory was a three dimensional painting of mummers frozen in time. All of them she knew, some well, like Vahanian and Alacrix, some briefly, like Kethan and Marcus. She walked among them, frozen on the stage of a single point in time, she investigated the scene, leisurely walking from one to another through her hazy mindscape.

She first approached herself, her eyes wide open, transfixed at a crack in a portal stone. Her fist clutching the air where a scimtar ought to be. "You don't have it, silly, and even if - are you going to swordfight a damn destiny?"

There was the crowd of nobles at the other side of Solarium, most of them amazed and oblivious to what was about to transpire, some of them rightly alarmed, few knowledgeable ones terrified. Among the crowd there was a pair of eyes staring not at the ritual but elsewhere, in fact... they were looking precisely at the frozen version of her, and what a look it was. "Oh boy" - she walked over to the motionless memory of Alacrix and tenderly caressed his face - "I should be so lucky."

Then there was the center of attention: the Oracle struggling against unfamiliar, ancient magic over Kethan's form and Stheno entranced by the portal stones. The use of portal magic was foolish. Maura approached the effigy of Stheno, clearly annoyed - "what are you doing, girl?! Your mother struggles, yes, but she needs no help, no portal stones, especially not aether-tained ones. Have you forgot where we are? This is Obia'Syela - Obeah's Haven. It is the Veiled Goddess' domain and no harm will come to her Oracle here, you should know bette..." - Maura was immediately taken aback when she noticed the alien eyes she was so fascinated by were no longer unreadable. There was intent in them, sparkling emotions, glints of conviction reaching beyond even the gravity of the Oracle's ritual... far beyond. The Inquisitor began reading into them and was lost in it for what felt like eternity. One by one she was deciphering the riddles. She found fear - it was easy, the first one to notice, the closest to surface. Like a wave after a tide came anger, but this one was lackluster like a lie told en passant even though everyone knows the truth. Why would that even... Despair. That's it. Anger is lackluster when it's only there to cope with a bottomless despair. No, that's not quite right, the tightly pressed lips are heralds of determination. There might've been a memory of despair, but it's presence is a stormy water and the golden sea of those eyes is as serene as a dead monk on a driftwood. Only one shape of mind reeks of despair, calm intent and at the same time... victory?

"Oh no, Stheno... what are you about to do?! You foolish girl, what are you..." - when Maura grabbed the recollection of Stheno by the arms it disappeared into an ominously purple smoke and so did the entire mindscape of her memory.

A screech of a vitreous heart shattering into a thousand pieces awoke her. She needn't look, she knew who it belonged to and what caused it. She heard panicked words from many mouths, all of which could be summarized as "we need to do something!" A sad smirk cracked her otherwise motionless face. Maura only ever loved one person on the entire world and she let her die a long time ago, it took her over a decade to get from there to here and if she ever knew anything it was the fact that the noise was pointless, "we need to do someth..." THERE'S NOTHING you can do. Nothing.

She felt a hand on her shoulder, both tough and gentle. Before she even looked up she already knew she was talking to Alacrix - "let's go, Al... let's get out of here."

Roleplay from Alacrix Galar Message sent to everyone in Heralds of Obeah (43 recipients) - 4 days, 12 hours, 39 minutes ago Reaching down he grasped Maura's shoulders. Please be alright, he thought. When he turned her over he saw a small sad smile on her face.

"let's go, Al... let's get out of here."

"Alright Maura." He said softly. He gently helped her to her feet and tried to support her in a way that didn't make it look like she was being supported. In that moment he was lost in a storm of conflicting emotions. He felt such elation because Maura had called him Al...but he felt such sorrow at seeing what had happened to the Oracle. "I know of a quite place that we can take a moment to think."

With that he gently guided her along the path ways to Holy Basilica. He took care to take the back ways to avoid running into people. There he led her down pathways to place he had created years before. Back when he ran the estate of the Holy Basilica. There was a small pool of calm water. It was hidden from site by a row of bushes and trees. Surrounding the pool were flowers of all sorts. The flowers were chosen to not only for their beauty but also for their aroma. The place was meant to calm ones soul. He had visited this place after every major battle he had fought while he managed the estate.

Alacrix gently set Maura down on on the small bench. He looked into her eyes. "I have wanted to have shown you this place since you came back. I tried to show it to you before what happened." He paused, briefly glancing away from Maura's eyes gazing on the garden he had created, losing himself for a moment to the grief he had seen. "I use to come here after every battle to try and find peace. I hope it will help now...If you want to talk I will listen...if you don't will stay quite. And if you want to be alone I will go. But I think for the moment...for a few precious moments we should stay and try to find a rare moment of peace."

With all his courage he looked back into Maura's eyes. He tried to tell her in that look that this was a safe place and that he was here for her.

Letter from Marcus Daubeny Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (36 recipients) - 5 days, 11 hours, 3 minutes ago Marcus was blown into the wall as the explosion of power rocked the Solarium, Marcus stood frozen in shock and fear as the Oracle burned before him, as Stheno grabbed the portal stones and yet again he was knocked down as more power was shoot into the room, then he stood, Stheno was still and the Oracle looked near death and Kethan was healed, he had witnessed a Miracle, and a tragedy all in one, he rushed to Stheno and check for a pulse, he withdrew his fingers from her wrist and looked to the other with tears in his eyes and shook his head, he then turned to the Oracle "My lady, I am sorry, so so sorry"

He knew that in the near future he wold have a statue of Stheno construed in the hall.

He stood and looked to Kethan "I will guard the Oracle, It is my duty as Farseer" He looked to Steno one more time and whispered to himself "I am sorry my lady if I could of traded my life for yours I would of"

"Obeah guide her soul and giver her strength in her next life" With that he retrieve his sword from the floor where it was blasted from his side.

"Lord Kethan, Lord Vahanian, What is your order"

Roleplay from Vahanian Blint Message sent to all nobles of Obia'Syela (36 recipients) - 58 minutes ago (OOC: Sorry for the delay in getting this out, was unavailable for a few days..)

Vahanian stood his ground during the initial shockwave of the spell Rania was working, but barely. He was dazed, confused, and on high alert. Hand on hilt he scanned the room and identified everything. "Rania, Stheno. - Protect." His instincts screamed at him. *MOVE. ACT. DO. SOMETHING.* But he was rooted to the spot. The Oracle flickered a glance at him and it was more than enough. She stared down at Stheno and the look spoke volumes between mother and daughter.

Stheno arranged the portal stones and activated the magic. Vahanian was thrown from his feet, he felt his shoulder pop from it's socket and ribs crack. A shard of stone scored his face nearly taking his left eye. He would eventually regain full use of the eye, but the scar would not vanish with time.

When he awoke he saw Stheno crumple to the ground, her body utterly lifeless and motionless, a small smile on her face. Vahanian had seen enough death to know her fate. Emotion came unbidden and unbound, it was the pure essence of raw grief. A scream elicited itself from his throat, a sound no-one in this room had ever heard from Vahanian. He moved as well and as quickly as his body would allow to Rania, he checked her pulse, it was there, but faint, she cradled Stheno's head in her lap and was barely moving, unconscious. Vahanian was overcome, he'd raised Stheno since she was very small. He'd spent countless hours with her, teaching her riding, hunting, tracking, archery, sword-play. Every fighting style Vahanian knew. It wasn't enough. He wasn't enough. He'd lost his wife many years ago to Daimons and it had nearly killed him, Stheno had brought him back. Caring for her had brought him back from the darkness. He was at a loss, for words, for thoughts, for feelings, for everything. He kept thinking she was going to raise her head, crack a smile and pass out again. That she was going to start breathing, and that Vahanian and Rania would spend the next several months worrying and reprimanding her. He wished, begged, pleaded for that to happen. He screamed in his soul for her to wake. But his heart knew the truth.

Kethan put a hand on his shoulder and said "Vahanian, we need to carry Lady Rania to her Royal apartments in the Basilica. Stheno..." Vahanian barely felt it, barely heard it. He choked back a sob and felt pain lance through his chest. Kethan was firm but gentle, "W-we will have to... Oh, sweet embrace of Obeah, give us the strength we need for this... Vahanian, I need you. I do not know these people..." - he waved at Marcus, Maura and Alacrix, as well as any others in the room at the time - "...nearly as well as you do. Tell them what do you need them to do and help me take Rania to a safe place. One will have to guard her there and the other will take care of..."

Vahanian came to himself and took charge, he nodded to Maura and Alacrix as they silently made their exit, Maura sent a look to Vahanian but Vahanian lacked the strength to receive it right now. Vahanian checked Marcus's pulse as well. The young steward was alive, but unconscious. His injuries were largely minor, not a priority right now. Vahanian summoned the paladins, as they entered the room they immediately formed a phalanx around mother and daughter. Vahanian in a crackling, scratchy voice said "Kethan, they will help you with Rania. Please be careful with her, she sustained a great deal of magic. Sth -" He couldn't form the words, Kethan put and arm around him and Vahanian nodded he was okay, he opened his mouth to speak and dropped to a knee. Kethan caught him, unusually strong for how he looked an hour ago. Vahanian knelt next to Stheno and said "I'll carry her, her vigil is mine to stand." He managed to say. Vahanian scooped Stheno up in his arms, and set his face forward. The Paladins helped Kethan carry Stheno and the rest of them formed a Phalanx ready to deal death to any who impeded them.

As the group walked down the hall, servants, priests, and members of the faith that inhabited the basilica parted for the group. There were more than a few cries of sorrow at seeing Vahanian carrying the still form of Stheno and the look of sheer pain and grief on his face. Upon reaching the Oracle's apartments, the paladins and Kethan took Raina into her chambers, and left her in the capable care of her handmaidens. Vahanian cleared a sofa of scrolls and tomes and laid Stheno gently upon it, brushing the hair from her face, and arranging her limbs in a peaceful display. He covered her with a blanket as a makeshift shroud. Before pulling it over her face he knelt next to her, caressing her cheek and face and whispering to her. He kissed her on the forehead, closed her lifeless eyes and pulled the shroud over her head.

He stood and turned, and nodded thanks to Kethan and the Paladins. Vahanian would stand his vigil until Rania awoke and dismissed him.

• Out-of-Character from Vahanian Blint

(Personal message to Rania Eastersand JeVondair) - 57 minutes ago ....... I don't really have words for that RP event.. It was beautiful. I hate you a lot for killing her :( but it was wonderfully done. Literally got me a bit emotional. Hats off to you my friend, hats off to you.

Tyler F

Roleplay from Kethan D'Espana Message sent to everyone in Heralds of Obeah (43 recipients) - just in The scream his old friend let out that night would accompany Kethan for a very long time. He had never heard such a sound coming from Vahanian, and by the way he checked for Rania's pulse and looked at Stheno, Kethan immediately knew his friend would never be the same after this horrible event. While Vahanian tried to recover, Marcus checked for Stheno's pulse and apologized to Rania, though the Oracle was not listening to anyone. He stood and looked to Kethan, and clearly manifested his intention to guard the Oracle as a member of the Farseers. After that, Marcus retrieved his sword from the floor, where it was blasted from his side.

- "Lord Kethan, Lord Vahanian, What is your order?"

Vahanian came to himself and took charge, summoning the paladins and nodding to Maura and Alacrix as they silently made their exit. When the armed men entered the room, they immediately formed a phalanx around mother and daughter.

- "Kethan, they will help you with Rania. Please be careful with her, she sustained a great deal of magic. Sth -"

He couldn't form the words, Kethan put and arm around him and Vahanian nodded he was okay, he opened his mouth to speak and dropped to a knee. Kethan caught him, unusually strong for how he looked an hour ago. Vahanian knelt next to Stheno.

- "I'll carry her, her vigil is mine to stand."

Kethan nodded, speechless, as Vahanian scooped Stheno up in his arms and set his face forward.

- "Steward Marcus, please come with us and stand guard for the Oracle. We... We will need all the strength we can muster on this most accursed night."

The paladins helped Kethan carry Rania, Marcus keeping zealous watch for their safety, and the rest of them formed a phalanx ready to deal death to any who impeded them.

As the group walked down the hall, servants, priests, and members of the faith that inhabited the basilica parted for the group. There were more than a few cries of sorrow at seeing Vahanian carrying the still form of Stheno and the look of sheer pain and grief on his face. Upon reaching the Oracle's apartments, the paladins, Marcus and Kethan took Rania into her chambers, and left her in the capable care of her handmaidens. Vahanian cleared a sofa of scrolls and tomes and laid Stheno gently upon it, brushing the hair from her face, and arranging her limbs in a peaceful display. He covered her with a blanket as a makeshift shroud. Before pulling it over her face he knelt next to her, caressing her cheek and face and whispering to her. He kissed her on the forehead, closed her lifeless eyes and pulled the shroud over her head.

He stood and turned, and nodded thanks to Kethan, Marcus and the Paladins. Vahanian would stand his vigil until Rania awoke and dismissed him. Kethan wished to stay, more than anything in the world, but he knew the customs of old and would not deprive Vahanian of his last right as Stheno's tutor and, essentially, fatherly figure. Respectfully bowing before Vahanian, he looked at Stheno one last time and turned to Marcus, his voice still trembling.

- "Steward Marcus, the Oracle is safe and in good hands, and we must leave this room while Lord Vahanian stands his vigil, at least until the Oracle wakes up and requires or dismisses us. I will be keeping watch in the antechamber so both the Oracle and Lord Vahanian are left alone, and you are welcome to come with me if you so desire."

(OOC: Used quite a bit of Vahanian's RP to include Marcus and tie everything together, hope it doesn't bother anyone.)

Roleplay from Kluthruel (Personal message to Rania Eastersand JeVondair) - 1 day, 15 hours, 2 minutes ago For the next couple of days, he kept following rumors around the city, trying to stay undetected and keep a low profile as patrols continuously swept the area in search of anything out of the ordinary. Little by little, he put together some fragments of what seemed to have happened: a ritual involving a close friend of the Oracle, who apparently was the founder of the local religion, tons of released arcane energy and the death of the daughter of the Oracle, who had just been recognized as part of the local court.

The city was abuzz with voices from every commoner and trader, but that wasn't enough to give him a definite answer as to what was he supposed to do in the area, as to what was the purpose of the Call. It had been silent for the last couple of days, ever since the top of the Basilica exploded amidst a sudden burst of eldritch energies, leaving him puzzled as to what to do next. Still unsure and perplexed, he decided to move camp away from Rines, since his presence there had already been noticed by more than one inquisitive adventurer.

He left just before sunset, wandering away while still trying to understand everything that had happened and what to do about it.

– The Death of Stheno