Karbala Spring Tournament
Contents
Tournament announcement
On behalf of His Majesty Shadowking Lindow let it be known to all honourable knights that the Karbala Spring Tournament is inaugurated. This sword fighting and jousting tournament will be sponsored by Prime Minister Doranthir Tezokian and the Shadow King Lindow Moonsun. The tournament will be in seven days, once spring begins, where all the knights of this continent are invited to participate in the tournament. The fight on foot will face the combatants with shield, sword, great sword, double-edged ax, mace and flail. The fight on horseback will face with long spears, shield, beautiful helms and bearing their heraldry as they charge their opponent. The winners will receive a prize of 1000 gold and the semifinalists of 500 gold. It is reported that any gentleman or lady, if she or he wishes, can fight to prove that her or his lover is the most beautiful on this continent. In addition, the event will feature bars with the best drinks in the North, training grounds for knights to train and show their skills before their fights, and other delicacies offered by the mysterious grey city of Karbala.
5 days before the tournament
Isidor Thrane roleplay
Isidor had been writing well into the early hours of morning, arduously attempting to complete his tome; Beasts, Abominations & Other Nefarious Beings. The recollections that once came to him easily began to wane. He knew nothing of the monstrosities of the East Continent or how much they varied from those found in Beluaterra. He found that the words he scribed started to become regurgitations of others and not his own. He angrily swiped the inkhorn from his desk, shattering on the other side of his chambers. He exhaled dramatically and slumped in his chair.
After a moment, Isidor gathered himself and begrudgingly rose. The inkhorn had struck against the chest containing his belongings from Beluaterra and upon seeing it he was struck with inspiration. For too long had he paraded his sword ceremoniously, choosing to forego war and take upon the cloth, tend to administrative duties and attempt to catalog historical events, but at what cost? “Why allow other to mold and shape history? There is no honor to be had in scribing the accomplishments of others.” he thought. “I must forge a history of my own and leave the word play for others.”
…Hours Later…
Isidor entered the tournament grounds and found himself at ease, as if he was destined to be here at this exact point in time. A few faces seemed familiar to him, though he had only what words he read of them to go by, and many held themselves strong; no doubt capable warriors. Isidor sought out the Alemongers and ensured there was a drink for all in attendance.
“Well met noble and brave souls. May our steel remain strong and our strikes land true!” He said loudly with his tankard raised.
4 days before the tournament
Lindow Moonsun roleplay
The tournament ground was gradually filling with tents with the heraldry of the competitors, squires lined up in front of a table to register their lieges for the tournament, the forges of the smithies were operational from dawn to dusk working non-stop and the taverns began to fill with nobles from different places.
At the sound of trumpets, a herald opened a scroll and began to read.
- Welcome newcomers to the Karbala Spring Tournament.
Your coat of arms will join the leaderboard along with the other honorable competitors.
The first prize is nothing less than the exorbitant sum of 1000 gold coins and the second prize of 500 gold.
In addition, for those who wish, you can fight to prove that your beloved is the most beautiful on this continent.
The tournament will start in four days. Meanwhile the city of Karbala is at your disposal, drink, eat and taste all the pleasures that are offered to you.
On behalf of the Shadow King Lindow Moonsun and the Prime Ministers Doranthir Tezokian, sponsors of this illustrious Tournament, good luck in combat! -
2 days before the tournament
Lorelai Chamberlain roleplay
Karbala, her Grandmother had always described the city in the most off hand of terms, but there were yet signs of the willowy arches and stoneworks of the ancient elven architraves.
Outside the city a network of pavilions and tents had been constructed for refreshment and relaxation. Fighting the urge to find her Leige she made for the Sirionite banners... quickly focusing on the Ketchum banner, she tied noble Fat Bastard to the post.
The day before the tournament
Maximilian Rea roleplay
Maxy was.......very drunk. He'd been drinking since he'd gotten to the grounds days ago, and had barely stopped for training. Not that any of the training was going well...being drunk lends itself to landing on your rear enough to make the trainers give up quickly...
Hendrik Renodin of Arescod roleplay
"Raise your glass, messires and dames, if you are going to hope to do the very best in that tournament!" He said to the fellows at the tavern, hoping that some of these might be nobles that do participate in the tournament. Otherwise he'd look bad,even for a moment. Throwing a party for the retainers of those noblemen, who'd be present here today in some way or shape, was also good. He climbed down the table and sat at one of the chairs, ordering a new glass of wine. Yes, that's right! A glass of wine. He'd spe,nt so long during the trip towards this continent having to do with a cup of wine, because his glass hadn't survived the first storm that it was somewhat of a novetly to him again. But while waiting with his glass, he felt anxious again. He surely hoped that there were nobles who came to this party.
Lorelai Chamberlain roleplay
"Sir Hendrick" she sat across from the man currently nursing his wine. She smiled warmly, "I would not see a fellow of Perdan left drinking alone... though it will be a clear head for me."
She scanned the field and the runs from the comfort of her seat. "These seats have good views Sir Hendrick, a good thing since I will no doubt be back in them in the shortest measure once the fights are met in the morning..." she laughed, "this will be my third tournament and I have made the second round of the joust but once... and that was due to a charitable bye. I am unsure if it is unlucky to toast with water, but I raise my glass to you and ours... mayhaps Perdan might have success."
Isidor Thrane roleplay
Isidor enjoyed the displays of prowess from the various nobility assembled within the now bustling tournament grounds, as well as the free ale provided and enjoyed by all. He himself wouldn't dare to call attention to own abilities, or there lack of, and remained close to the blue and black banners of the Shadowdalian encampment. He couldn't help but grin at the sight of Maximilian "training" knowing he fate would much of the same should he attempt the same, as he too had his fair share of wine bolstering within him a false sense of continence.
He surveyed the grounds and noticed a Dame set apart from the crowd. She was tall, pale and had a most interesting pair of bright blue eyes. He meandered towards her, brushing his hair back and clearing his throat. He bowed his head once before her , "Greetings my Lady, how fair you this fine day?"
He smiled and nodded towards the training pit, "Huh. What say you we lend ole Maxi...is it?...a hand? Surly his rump can't take much more of a thrashing?"
Octavian Schwarzherzig letter
Duchess Aila,
No fond greetings for me? How unseemly!
Octavian Schwarzherzig Duke of Chaos Margrave of Marinen Marshal of the Knights of Chaos
Aila Storme letter
Duke Octavian,
I have only just arrived, you must be patient! However,
Fond greetings to you. With luck you may catch a glimpse of me during this fine event.
Aila Storme Duchess of Perdan Margravine of Perdan
Maccio Aurelle letter
Greetings
Glad to see you have arrived in time, Duchess Aila. I hope you enjoyed the dried eel and soy sauce I sent your way after your departure from Ashforth last time we met. Duchess Luna is also in Karbala, you two should meet.
Salutations, Duke Octavian. Still seeking Duchess Aila's attention?
Greetings to you as well, Ambassador Ambrose. It's been a while since we last met, during Sirion's tournament. How are things going in Caligus? Your alliance with Perdan was quite the surprise.
Duke Andreas, pleased to see you here! I heard my brother Mandolyn will be marrying with one of your relatives soon. Lady Isabella, was it?
Sir James Elynbrigge, I heard Duke Luke, one of your relatives and former ruler of Sol, was friends with my brother Mandolyn as well. I wish I had as many acquaintances as he does.
Lord Speaker Lyanna and Royal Monterys, should we expect an heir of the two anytime soon? Or has there been one already born?
Lady Shorloc, I think I remember you from our war against Caligus. If you are lucky you may have another chance at stabbing me during this tournament - no offense, more like a mix of a joke and a taunt.
And to everyone else, feel welcome to our lands! There is no better way to meet somebody than by crossing blades with them!
Best regards
Maccio Aurelle Margrave of Ashforth Marshal of the Knights of Humble Countenance
Shorloc Soul letter
Good Sir Maccio,
I will be gentle with you, rest assured. Killing a noble in tournament is a somewhat dishonourable act and is below even my standards. We will save the bloodshed for the battlefield. However winning the pot and taking gold from the pockets of Shadowdale would appease me to some extent. I wish you much luck and do hope to meet you in the final.
With grace.
Shorloc Soul Countess of Supra
Maccio Aurelle letter
Greetings
Lady Shorloc, that is quite the gall, to think you could allow yourself to go easy on me. I doubt you could even grace me, even less kill me. Last time it did not go too well, let us not forget.
Jokes and teasing aside, I expect neither of us to win this tournament. There are contenders with way greater skill than us, as usual. Though it should be fun to try.
Best regards
Maccio Aurelle Margrave of Ashforth Marshal of the Knights of Humble Countenance
Monterys Velaryon letter
Margrave Maccio,
We express gratitude for your welcoming words. The alliance of the royal houses Arylon and Velaryon stands strong in the north. We thrive in the lands of Osmeneliath and endure good tidings in Sirion. An heir has unfortunately not yet been produced, yet we live in the hopes that the gods will bless us with offspring in the most auspicious of moments.
It is refreshing to see Karbala bursting with activity and commotion in the eve of the grand tournament. I wish you and all of Shadowdalians, as well as other participants, steady arms and stark defenses during tomorrow's challenges. The competition is, as always, very demanding, and rightly so.
May only the best warriors claim the wreath.
Signed,
Monterys Velaryon Royal of Sirion Margrave of Trinbar
Lucius Poe letter
Esteemed duelists,
So many familiar faces and one more beautiful than all the others of course, it warms my heart that we are brought together again.
What a wonderful city! First time I've ever had the pleasure of course, those from the Grand Court don't usually go this far north.
To those I like...I wish you the greatest of luck tomorrow so that you are gifted one lesser than yourself.
To those I dislike...I wish you luck so rotten that you find yourself against me.
LP
Lucius Poe Duke of The Grand Court Margrave of Aix
Isana Everlight roleplay
"A toast to all the competitors! May our toil be rewarded in glory on the morrow. Strike hands with me. The glass is brim. The dew is on the heather. And love is good, and life is long, and friends are best together."
Gislin Luitolf roleplay
Hearing all the calls from the local tavern, Gislin decides to visit after his morning warm up in the training area. Tossing his main sword over to his assistant Faravid, he walks through the door to have a look around. There are few people her recognizes, his liege Aila being one, but decides not to join her call unless personally invited, worried that she might frown on the over familiarity based on their liege-vassal relationship.
Hearing a woman he had seen before, but could not place where, he joins in.
"What the kind lady there says is true, let us drink and break bread together, for on the morrow we cross blades. For the first time in quite a while, for myself."
Daario Vulparan letter The Duke of the Grand Court, Perfection Personified,
It would seem my luck is consistently torrid in its rotteness, for I always find myself matched to and then bested by yourself, Your Grace, in such grand affairs of pageantry and skill that we will witness the morrow.
I just pray such consistently terrible luck does not find its source from your so-called wish.
I await with anticipation the witnessing of your masterful skill as ever.
Your humble servant,
Daario Vulparan Earl of Brive
Lorelai Chamberlain letter
Lord Brive!
As if His Grace would wish ill to our dearest fox of Perdan.
He is Perfection Personified, his gaze and wishes would never err so.
In Faith,
Lorelai Chamberlain Steward of Aix
Raziel V Himoura Nifelleisca roleplay
Located near the entrance of the tournament, Raziel was overseeing several cooks manning several griddles over a fire-trench. Nearby, a table was filled with several different pancake plates and butter dishes.
Accompanying the table were signs warning against waffle consumption and admonishing visitors to report any waffle consumers to Raziel V Himoura, at once. The menu read:
Flavors Butters
Plain Salted
Banana Ikrif
Blueberry Rum
Chocolate Chip
Raisin
All of the Above
The only syrup available was dark amber, robust taste maple syrup.
Ambrose Peregrine letter
Salutations, good Maccio, old friend. All is quiet in Caligus, we count our blessings. The pact between the Lion and the Griffin was a long time in the making. You may remember me meeting with Ambassador Kenneth in Sirion a while ago. Tourney is as good place as any to make all kinds of arrangements and deals.
I am happy to see you in good health and hope to see you at the tilts comes morrow.
Likewise I extend my greetings to the congregated nobility and especially my old Shadowdalian comrades, good Dawson, Flavia, Foxen. I remember you all fondly. And of course beautiful lady Jafaria. Your presence as always fills my heart with joy.
A separate greetings to ser Gremis. I still have your letter in my drawing room. It still has that smell.. you know. I hope we can resolve our feud tomorrow with sword and lance.
Good luck to the hosts and to the guests alike!
Ambrose Peregrine Ambassador of Caligus Baron of Scio
Calliope le Blanc roleplay
(In response to Isidor Thrane)
Calliope stood apart from the crowd, listening to the clanging of swords as the various lords and knights prepared for the upcoming display of their prowess. This sound seemed a strange juxtaposition to the song of the birds just now returning from their winter sabbatical. It seemed just as strange to usher in the springtime with needless violence, especially when a real battle may be close at hand. But alas, that was not her decision to make. Calliope closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, soaking in the fresh, cool air, and tried to focus on the songbirds' melody.
After a moment, a voice spoke in front of her, startling her out of her solitary meditation. She jumped back slightly but quickly recovered her composure, although her heart still beat a little faster. "Oh, I didn't see you there... I'm sorry, have we met before? I do not recall your name."
A sudden commotion drew their attention to a knight by the training pit. Having clearly taken advantage of the free ale offered at the tavern, he slurred out a challenge to no one in particular, while barely managing to draw his sword halfway from its sheath before stumbling sideways into a booth.
At her new acquaintance's suggestion, she agreed, "Yes, he does appear to be in need of some assistance." Why all these nobles would travel so far to show off their greatness, only to make absolute fools of themselves for the sake of a mere drink... another mystery she would never understand. Yet she kept these thoughts to herself as they made their way over to the inebriated warrior.
Doranthir Tezokian letter
I wish all of the tournament attendees good luck and fortune on the upcoming festivities. My personal thanks to Shadow King Lindow for allowing us to co-host this tournament and to all of you for coming together for friendly competition.
Doranthir Tezokian Prime Minister of Sirion Royal of Sirion
Raziel V Himoura Nifelleisca roleplay
Everywhere one goes upon the tournament grounds, the smell of fresh pancakes is wafting across folks' nostrils.
Tarloff MacGourd is writing in her notebook when a man nearby is heard shouting, "Pancakes! Come get your pancakes!". Were one to look in his direction, they would see him carrying a platter of various stacks of pancakes.
Behind him, a young lady is carrying a large bottle of syrup. Walking in Tarloff's direction, the man points a finger at Tarloff and loudly inquires, "Would the Lady like some pancakes whilst observing the festivities?"
Galael Tower
Lindow Moonsun roleplay
An elderly man but with a muscular physique, dressed in a butler's outfit, approached Aila once he saw her enter the tournament venue. Yet someone got in his way
- If you think you can approach my liege like that, you are very wrong - Gideon said with his hand inside his coat.
Sebas also adopted a threatening posture, he knew that underneath that coat there was something with which Gideon could kill him. That man gave off blind loyalty for his liege just as Sebas did for his king. Finally, Sebas took a more relaxed posture.
- Today is not the day to fight, I come to deliver a message to your liege, if you distrust me in that case deliver it yourself but do it in my presence because like you I also owe my loyalty and good service to my king -
Aila Storme roleplay
A man approaching Aila unannounced did not happen to her often anymore, and her man Gideon is put on edge instantly by the stranger approaching her. Without her unit or guards, it was just himself and his liege so he dropped the polite, Perdanese manner and took no chances. As Gideon bristled, Aila rests a hand on his arm calmly “We are in the King’s tourney grounds Gideon, I am safe”
"Today is not the day to fight, I come to deliver a message to your liege, if you distrust me in that case deliver it yourself but do it in my presence because like you I also owe my loyalty and good service to my king"
The Duchess nods in understanding now, this was one of Lindow’s men, the first she had seen that did not wear imposing grey armor. As the letter is taken she nods for the man to leave and stands near Gideon to read it as he watches the messenger leave. When Gideon looks back down at his liege he finds her blushing and reading the short note a few times before smiling up at him “Have you ever heard of Galael Tower?”
“No, your Grace”
“Well, we have till sunset to find it!”
Lindow Moonsun Letter
My body and soul burn to see you again, not to the visible side of the moon, but to that woman who captivated me in Ashforth.
They say that at sunset in the Galael Tower, the sun and the moon will be visible at the same time within a reddish sky.
I wait you there. Lindow Moonsun Shadow King of Shadowdale Royal of Shadowdale Duke of Shadow's Bluff Margrave of Karbala
Aila Storme roleplay
The sole esquire accompanying the Duchess of Perdan looks off-put by their current mission, following behind his charge with a look of discontent. That is until he catches the look on the young ladies face, happy, bright eyed, regularly stopping to express “Smell the ocean Gideon, it smells like home.”
There was no seaside in Perdan anymore, but he knew what she meant. Aila had lamented the loss of the ocean many times since the cataclysm in the chaos isles, the ocean smells being missed in particular. Aside from the smell, the two cities could not be more different. The architecture that of the elves like so many other Northern Cities, it looked as foreign as it was.
They had spent the morning browsing and making their way through the market district. Many people would attest that one of the Duchess’ most renowned talents was her ability to spend money, and after a few hours Gideon had gone from following with one hand on his sword hilt, to following with two baskets heaped with goods wrapped in wax paper, or silk, or whatever the item warranted.
It was then that she spotted her falcon above the crowd, circling high above the buildings over one part of the street. Gideon noticed it too, following behind as Aila leads the way toward whatever her hunting bird was so focused on.
Luna Tempest roleplay
It had been too long since Luna had been to Karbala, the hunt felt like a long time ago, but so did everything these days. Karbala’s marketplace is just as she remembers it, busy and loud, and during the tourney browsing the goods there just seemed like the right thing to do, and it turned out she was right.
A white beacon, the symbol of Stormeness, a gyrfalcon flies above the crowd toward her, doing joyful circles above her head as Luna scans the crowd for the beast's master. The Duchess of perdan, Aila herself, still in her travelling clothes but looking none the worse for wear even after the long journey to Karbala. Wispy golden braid, pink cheeks, and the way she shouts her name ‘Luna!’ when they finally meet in the middle of the crowd in a crushing embrace.
“You finally got to Karbala!” Luna exclaims, taking in the full vision of the girl laughing in her arms.
Aila Storme roleplay
“I’m so glad you decided to come” Aila sighs, finally letting go of her friend with a big mischievous smile that all three of them would understand.
“Ah, wait, Aila- Don’t-” Gid argues but it is no use, he has lost both Duchess’ in a foreign city in the blink of an eye, left standing alone in a street with two hefty baskets full of luxurious items...With a pout he turns back to head to the inn room to put all the new frivolities safely away and get a well deserved drink.
Far down the street after a long sprint, nearly to the palace district Aila and Luna stop under cover of a strange looking citadel, out of breath from running and laughing at the puzzled faces of onlookers as they watch two nobles act like errant children for the moment. “Gid means well but he needs a break anyway” Aila says through her breathless laugh, taking in the sight of the high gates leading to the palace district.
“I have to be at the Galael Tower at sunset for a meeting but until then, let’s have some fun.”
Aila Storme roleplay
When Aila arrives at the Galael Tower it is after a day of enjoying fresh seaside, spring air and merrymaking with her best friend, she has cleaned up out of her travel clothes and looks as fresh as she feels. The dress she is wearing is one she found that very day while wandering the market quarters many stalls and shops, cut in the styles most common to Shadowdale and made with a rich, muted blue fabric. Despite all the trouble she had given the tailor, Luna had convinced her that it looked wonderful on her and so she decided to wear it to, 'the meeting'.
As usual she is alone except for Gideon who lingers back out of the way while she observes the tower curiously. The structure itself is beautiful, but she finds herself wondering what it’s true purpose is other than observing beautiful sunsets. She knows she has found the right place, already having a talent for spotting grey guards- they are posted sparingly outside the tower.
Fearlessly as always, Aila approaches with a stoic look hiding the hammering of her heart and swirling of her stomach. Rather than explain herself, she just looking at the door guards expectantly.
Lindow Moonsun roleplay
Sebas was waiting at the door, gesturing for Aila to enter
- Please M'lady, come in alone. My lord awaits you on the first floor -
Once inside Aila found a simple and dimly lit hall. She climbed the stone stairs until she found a half-open old wooden door with light coming from outside. Aila entered cautiously, the light from a large window dazzling her a bit until they got used to the light. The living room was a simple bedroom with a table in the center where there was a furry creature staring at her.
- Squeak -
Behind the table, leaning against the window there was a man dressed in a green uniform with gold floral embroidery, with well-groomed hair and a shaved beard. Lindow looked at Aila.
- My beautiful Aila, you took half of my heart in Ashforth and since then I have missed you and I have not been able to stop thinking about you - he said while he walked to Aila
Aila Storme roleplay
The Duchess of Perdan cannot hide the flush in her cheeks as she enters what is evidently an intimate sort of chamber, taking quick inventory of the room before spotting the dashing silhouette waiting by the window amidst brilliant light. As his eyes meet hers she is enthralled by their intensity, and the words that accompany it match the ones in her heart perfectly.
As he approaches her Aila is spurred forward, meeting him halfway across the room beside the little table in the center she greets him with a careful embrace. It has been a long time since she felt the beating of a man's heart against her cheek, and she does not want to let go. “I was so glad to get your letter, I've missed you too-” she finally confesses, stepping back at last to get another long look at him.
But then, her eyes leave Lindow at last and fall onto a strange creature sitting on the table beside them, staring up in silence. It is grey, with beady eyes and and fluffy tail. It is as big as a cat and too adorable to be a rat, it is unlike anything that she has seen in Perdan “But I have to ask, what in all of Leandra’s divine light is that thing?”
Lindow Moonsun roleplay
Lindow took Aila against him, stroked her cheek, and kissed her. Once they parted, Aila asked about that animal on the table and Lindow smiled.
- He is my faithful bodyguard, since the continent changed he has not separated from me ...- Lindow is thoughtful, touching his head - however I am very bad at putting names and as he always follows me I have never needed to use a name -
Lindow sees that Aila is not afraid of her pet.
- Take it, it doesn't bite and it's ... soft? -
While the chinchilla stared at them curiously from the table.
- Squeak -
Aila Storme roleplay
The ease in which he kisses her causes a blush of pink to appear on her cheeks which she hid poorly by looking over the strange squeaking animal. It is bound to Lindow the same way her falcon is to her, it is something Aila can appreciate more than most and so while the little thing is an oddity, there is an appreciation there for it already just on merit of loving his master so dearly. He offers for her to try and pick it up, concerns for her dress are overridden by curiosity and with both hands she scoops up the little fluffball into her arms.
The poofy tail, his eyes, the warm little paws gripping her arm as she runs her fingers through its feather-soft coat are too much for her to bare “He’s not an it” Aila coos softly. “A king's guard needs a proper name... “ she has already totally melted for the little thing. “What of...Lord Fluff ball?” The little animal slaps her arm with his back leg in what looks strangely like annoyance “Alright, Duke then. Duke Sweetie-pie of Pillow Bum”
-Squeak-
“You can’t be a King you live with a King, two can’t live together.”
The little animal whips it’s head at Lindow then back at her and thumps her arm with it’s foot a more few times. Aila continues conversing with the animal as if it can understand her at all.
“Alright, let’s forget King and and just focus on the Realm theme- Archduke, Mystic mouse of the Twilight court” He seems fine with that one, enjoying a few more scratches before hopping from her arms to her shoulder, then leaping from there to Lindow's shoulder where he sat looking down at the Duchess from on high. As she grasps the King's arm and looks toward the burning red sky outside she assures the chinchilla “Yes I know, you outrank me now as well” The damn rat planned it all along.
The tournament
Lindow Moonsun Roleplay
The tournament ground was filling up with spectators eager to see the most famous warriors of this continent fight. After a blast of trumpets, a herald announced the entry of the sponsors Doranthir Tezokian and Lindow Moonsun, who took their seats inside the royal vision box.
After a while, the drums and trumpets announced the start of the tournament. A herald came out into the center of the room and began to shout:
- Ladies and gentlemen, nobles and commoners, welcome to the Karbala Spring Tournament! This is a great event sponsored by our most illustrious rulers - the herald said as he bowed to the royal box. - Today is the time to enjoy, laugh and shout, although I have already seen someone who has come forward in the bars - people began to laugh, many were guilty of the numerous drunkenness caused by the celebrations - However, dear guests, let's not remove protagonism to our brave participants, the true protagonists of this tournament. Coming from all over this continent, let's give warm applause to the sixty-three participants of the Karbala Spring Tournament! -
The doors of one of the sides of the ground were opened and the participants entered, who were greeted by applause, rose petals and trumpet sounds. All the participants were accompanied by their squires who carried a banner with the heraldry of their family.
Once they were all in front of the royal box, Lindow got up from his chair and came over to say a few words.
- Noble participants, welcome to Karbala, I am honored to see so many knights and dames come from all the kingdoms of this continent. This tournament means much more than what the naked eye represents. Just as spring leaves cold winter behind, the past between Sirion and Shadowdale is left behind to begin a new relationship of cooperation, brotherhood and harmony. - Lindow looks at Doranthir and extends his hand as he said -For a future of synergies between our realms-
Tournament Report
Welcome to the tournament in Karbala. 63 nobles from 8 realms paid their 0 gold entrance fee and visit the tournament grounds today to claim the winner's honours and 1000 (gold) for swordfighting (500 for second place swordfighting) and 1000 (gold) for jousting (500 for second place jousting). This is a tournament of both, jousting and swordfight. Let's begin with the swords:
Round 1, 63 participants: Brock from Sirion -beats- Andreas from Perleone Gremis from Eponllyn -beats- Miles from Shadowdale Ubin from Sirion -beats- Ulric from Perdan Isana from Perdan -beats- Calliope from Shadowdale Ender from Perdan -beats- Rainier from Shadowdale Tsingu from Perdan -beats- Oliver from Perdan Luna from Shadowdale -beats- Gavin from Shadowdale Foxen from Shadowdale -beats- Markarth from Shadowdale Jacelyn from Perdan -beats- Raziel V Himoura from Perdan Ahmadkin Imad from Shadowdale -beats- Igor from Yssrgard Guldor from Eponllyn -beats- Peyton from Shadowdale Lorelai from Perdan -beats- Maremma from Perleone Monterys from Sirion -beats- Harl from Yssrgard Flavia from Shadowdale -beats- Sam from Shadowdale Gislin from Perdan -beats- Lucius from Perdan Dawson from Shadowdale -beats- Evangald from Shadowdale James from Alexandria -beats- Maccio from Shadowdale Robin from Shadowdale -beats- Periurium from Sirion Lyanna from Sirion -beats- Daario from Perdan Hamilton limb from Alexandria -beats- Octavian from Alexandria Merek from Shadowdale -beats- Konrad from Shadowdale Roen from Shadowdale -beats- Gustav from Shadowdale Maximilian from Shadowdale -beats- Lorne from Sirion Richard from Perdan -beats- Azer from Caligus Shorloc from Caligus -beats- Isidor from Shadowdale Ambrose from Caligus -beats- Vic from Shadowdale Aila from Perdan -beats- Aster from Eponllyn Geo from Shadowdale -beats- Hendrik Renodin from Perdan Tomohiro from Shadowdale -beats- Kaelan from Shadowdale Niall from Perleone -beats- Tarloff from Shadowdale Edmund from Shadowdale -beats- Lima from Caligus Tigerous - wildcard
Round 2, 32 participants: Ubin from Sirion -beats- Geo from Shadowdale Gremis from Eponllyn -beats- Merek from Shadowdale Shorloc from Caligus -beats- Richard from Perdan Luna from Shadowdale -beats- Robin from Shadowdale Monterys from Sirion -beats- Tomohiro from Shadowdale James from Alexandria -beats- Lorelai from Perdan Isana from Perdan -beats- Tigerous from Perleone Maximilian from Shadowdale -beats- Roen from Shadowdale Niall from Perleone -beats- Tsingu from Perdan Brock from Sirion -beats- Edmund from Shadowdale Guldor from Eponllyn -beats- Ender from Perdan Lyanna from Sirion -beats- Ahmadkin Imad from Shadowdale Aila from Perdan -beats- Jacelyn from Perdan Flavia from Shadowdale -beats- Foxen from Shadowdale Ambrose from Caligus -beats- Dawson from Shadowdale Gislin from Perdan -beats- Hamilton limb from Alexandria
Round 3, 16 participants: Brock from Sirion -beats- Ubin from Sirion Maximilian from Shadowdale -beats- Flavia from Shadowdale Luna from Shadowdale -beats- Niall from Perleone Shorloc from Caligus -beats- Aila from Perdan Ambrose from Caligus -beats- James from Alexandria Monterys from Sirion -beats- Gremis from Eponllyn Gislin from Perdan -beats- Lyanna from Sirion Isana from Perdan -beats- Guldor from Eponllyn
Round 4, 8 participants: Shorloc from Caligus -beats- Maximilian from Shadowdale Monterys from Sirion -beats- Brock from Sirion Ambrose from Caligus -beats- Isana from Perdan Gislin from Perdan -beats- Luna from Shadowdale
Semifinal round: Ambrose from Caligus -beats- Monterys from Sirion Shorloc from Caligus -beats- Gislin from Perdan
Final Round: Shorloc from Caligus -beats- Ambrose from Caligus Winner: Shorloc
In the second part of the tournament, the traditional jousting contest is being held:
Round 1, 63 participants: Maccio from Shadowdale -beats- Robin from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Gremis from Eponllyn -beats- Markarth from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Hamilton limb from Alexandria -beats- Richard from Perdan 2 to 1 Igor from Yssrgard -beats- Hendrik Renodin from Perdan 3 to 0 Niall from Perleone -beats- Shorloc from Caligus 3 to 0 Lyanna from Sirion -beats- Tsingu from Perdan 3 to 0 James from Alexandria -beats- Sam from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Lucius from Perdan -beats- Miles from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Oliver from Perdan -beats- Luna from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Monterys from Sirion -beats- Lorelai from Perdan 3 to 0 Flavia from Shadowdale -beats- Harl from Yssrgard 3 to 0 Maremma from Perleone -beats- Tarloff from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Vic from Shadowdale -beats- Dawson from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Guldor from Eponllyn -beats- Geo from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Evangald from Shadowdale -beats- Ulric from Perdan 2 to 1 Tomohiro from Shadowdale -beats- Octavian from Alexandria 2 to 1 Foxen from Shadowdale -beats- Merek from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Gavin from Shadowdale -beats- Konrad from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Isidor from Shadowdale -beats- Rainier from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Raziel V Himoura from Perdan -beats- Ender from Perdan 3 to 0 Calliope from Shadowdale -beats- Lorne from Sirion 3 to 0 Periurium from Sirion -beats- Daario from Perdan 2 to 1 Gislin from Perdan -beats- Isana from Perdan 2 to 1 Brock from Sirion -beats- Kaelan from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Gustav from Shadowdale -beats- Edmund from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Aila from Perdan -beats- Lima from Caligus 2 to 1 Maximilian from Shadowdale -beats- Tigerous from Perleone 3 to 0 Andreas from Perleone -beats- Roen from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Jacelyn from Perdan -beats- Ahmadkin Imad from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Ambrose from Caligus -beats- Aster from Eponllyn 3 to 0 Ubin from Sirion -beats- Azer from Caligus 3 to 0 Peyton - wildcard
Round 2, 32 participants: Monterys from Sirion -beats- Periurium from Sirion 3 to 0 Flavia from Shadowdale -beats- Igor from Yssrgard 3 to 0 Maximilian from Shadowdale -beats- Maremma from Perleone 3 to 0 Tomohiro from Shadowdale -beats- Gavin from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Foxen from Shadowdale -beats- Peyton from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Evangald from Shadowdale -beats- Lucius from Perdan 3 to 0 Jacelyn from Perdan -beats- Oliver from Perdan 3 to 0 Lyanna from Sirion -beats- Gustav from Shadowdale 2 to 1 James from Alexandria -beats- Calliope from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Andreas from Perleone -beats- Hamilton limb from Alexandria 3 to 0 Ubin from Sirion -beats- Isidor from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Raziel V Himoura from Perdan -beats- Gremis from Eponllyn 3 to 0 Ambrose from Caligus -beats- Gislin from Perdan 3 to 0 Niall from Perleone -beats- Brock from Sirion 3 to 0 Maccio from Shadowdale -beats- Vic from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Guldor from Eponllyn -beats- Aila from Perdan 3 to 0
Round 3, 16 participants: Foxen from Shadowdale -beats- Andreas from Perleone 3 to 0 Niall from Perleone -beats- Evangald from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Maccio from Shadowdale -beats- Ubin from Sirion 3 to 0 Ambrose from Caligus -beats- Jacelyn from Perdan 3 to 0 Guldor from Eponllyn -beats- Lyanna from Sirion 2 to 1 Flavia from Shadowdale -beats- Monterys from Sirion 2 to 1 James from Alexandria -beats- Maximilian from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Raziel V Himoura from Perdan -beats- Tomohiro from Shadowdale 3 to 0
Round 4, 8 participants: Flavia from Shadowdale -beats- Guldor from Eponllyn 2 to 1 Maccio from Shadowdale -beats- Raziel V Himoura from Perdan 3 to 0 Foxen from Shadowdale -beats- James from Alexandria 2 to 1 Niall from Perleone -beats- Ambrose from Caligus 2 to 1
Semifinal round: Niall from Perleone -beats- Maccio from Shadowdale 3 to 0 Flavia from Shadowdale -beats- Foxen from Shadowdale 3 to 0
Final Round: Niall from Perleone -beats- Flavia from Shadowdale 2 to 1 Winner: Niall
That was the tournament in Karbala. Congratulations to the winners and to all participants.
Oliver Laststar roleplay
A long white feathered plume—a keen eye would mark the falcon's feather—suddenly appears from behind the crowd surrounding the tournament grounds. The bouts were about to start, and all the onlookers were buzzing with anticipation of the violence soon to come.
To a viewer from inside the lists. They'd spy the plume dancing around back and forth at the edge of the crowd, trying to find its way in. Suddenly comes the shouts of alarm, and the plume bobs angrily as it dives into the mass of bodies. Terrified shrieks, outraged epithets, and screams of young children follow the plume carving a path through. The long feather sways and winds with the body beneath it. Uncaring for every cry that rises in waves after. It's on a mission.
Then finally a knight in a full hauberk of armor, wearing house colors of white, green and gold bursts out of the crowd on the inside of the clearing. Lifting up a gauntlet, the man opens up his faceplate and gasps for a loud breath of fresh air, exhausted after a long mad dash just to get there. Inside the helmet reveals a young and handsome face covered in rivulets of sweat.
"I'm here!" Sir Oliver Laststar rasps aloud, and bends at the waist to catch his breath, waving his hand, "-I'm here... You can start the tournament."
Isana Everlight roleplay
Eyes bright from her best-yet performance in the swordfighting, Isana totters tiredly through the grounds in search of the source of the delightful aroma. Someone, somewhere, is cooking fried dough with sweet toppings, and she will find them!
Raziel V Himoura Nifelleisca roleplay
Raziel spies Isana, the familiar identifying emblem of a realmmate, staggering around, exhausted, and calls out, "Do you need to rest a bit and enjoy a meal?"
Ambrose Peregrine letter
Viscount Niall, my archnemesis! You eliminated me prematurely. Next time I will beat you! For the time being, accept my congratulations. Your technique is indeed admirable.
Countess Shorloc, your victory was inevitable. Accept my congratulations as well.
Ambrose Peregrine Ambassador of Caligus Baron of Scio
Niall De La Fere letter
Oh Baron Peregrine! It was a pleasure to meet you again. Until next time!
My congratulations to everybody, it was a mighty tournament!
Signed,
Niall De La Fere Viscount of Mines of Isadril
Maccio Aurelle letter
Greetings
Well, that was unextected. Congratulations, Lady Shorloc. Maybe you would be able to graze me if you tried, though I will still try to poke fun at you regardless.
And well, Lord Niall's victory was to be expected.
Best regards
Maccio Aurelle Margrave of Ashforth Marshal of the Knights of Humble Countenance
Luna Tempest letter
Congratulations to the champions and all those that fought.
From the Shadow,
Lady Luna Tempest Ambassador of Shadowdale Duchess of The Shadow's Citadel Margravine of Fontan
Monterys Velaryon letter
Lord Ambrose revealed great sword skills when he bested me in the semi finals and was a blade away from taking the winner spot. You are a man of many qualities, my friend.
Congratulations to all. I am definitely looking forward to the next tournament!
Signed,
Monterys Velaryon Royal of Sirion Margrave of Trinbar
Lucius Poe letter
Well then.
It would appear Sir Gislin was blessed with enough luck that he was blessed with a lesser swordsman...in me.
Well fought good sir and congratulations to the champions of course.
I may not have won this time, maybe not even next time or the time after that..but at some time in the future I fully intend to make it into at least the 3rd round.
LP
Lucius Poe Duke of The Grand Court Margrave of Aix
Ambrose Peregrine letter
Margrave Monterys,
I am humbled by your compliment. Surely, while I fashion myself a brilliant jouster, my victory over you in melee was a matter of chance. I was sure you would have had that match.
Until we meet again!
Ambrose Peregrine Ambassador of Caligus Baron of Scio
Isidor Thrane roleplay
(Tournament Grounds - Calliope)
"Aye, but from what I have heard he's an ol' salty dog." Isidor grins, "Mayhaps it is a new style, the art of the Druken Blade?" He laughed and returned his attention to the dame. "Might be best to not interrupt him."
"Ah do forgive me, no we have not. I am Isidor of House Thrane, at your service." he smiles and gives a polite bow. "I've only just arrived and, like Sir Maxi, I too continue to brush off the salt of the sea. I originally hailed from Beluaterra, a nasty place of gnarled beasts and other nasty folk." He said placing his hands on his hips. "And you, my lady, with whom am I sharing this cool hour?"
Shorloc Soul roleplay
- chink chink*
Shorloc kicked the sack. With smug features, she ordered two of her servants to drag the heavy load to the cart in preparation for their departure.
'I can't wait to see the look on their faces back at home', she mused at the thought of presenting a sack with the Shadowdale emblem, full of gold. She was equally pleased that Sir Ambrose had also taken a share of the Shadowdale coffers for himself also.
Shorloc Soul letter
Fellow contestants,
Despite past grievances, I confess that Shadowdale have hosted a fine tournament indeed. I see many fighters from the last tournament also participating here with clear improvement of their skills. I expect some fierce competition very soon.
Margrave Maccio you will need a bigger pokey stick to stop me from grazing you. I expect you to present it at the next tournament.
Until next time. With grace
Shorloc Soul Countess of Supra
Lindow Moonsun letter
Participants of the Karbala Spring Tournament,
Again I thank you for your participation. Also, I want to congratulate the winners of the sword and jousting competititions Lady Shorloc Soul and Lord Niall De La Fere, you have proven to be the champions in this tournament.
On the other hand, I would like to invite you to a gala ball at the Grey Palace of Karbala as the final event of the tournament before you return home.
In the Shadow,
Lindow Moonsun Shadow King of Shadowdale Royal of Shadowdale Duke of Shadow's Bluff Margrave of Karbala
Gala Ball at the Grey Palace in Karbala
Lucius Poe roleplay The personal announcer of Lucius Poe entered into the gala first ahead of the Duke of the Golden Court.
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the Gala I give you the Margrave of Mystery..The Duke of Danger. The Lord of Lordlyness Lucius The Poe!"
Lucius sashayed into the gala, resplendent in a garish ensemble with his amethyst cape held aloft by his following household. He wore a golden masquerade mask to complete his transformation from steadfast duelist to perfect party goer.
"Thank you. Thank you" spoke Lucius as he waved his announcer back out of the room.
"The Pride of Perdan has finally arrived....Join me as I welcome Perdan's finest".
Aila Storme roleplay
The flashy Duke is left behind as the Duchess of Perdan enters the Gala venue, ducking under his cloak held aloft by peasantry. She is dressed in a luxurious dark green evening gown in the style most popular in Perdan, her expression is impatient thanks to Lucius' lengthy entrance and while the herald had taken twice as long to announce him, Aila had gotten the more attention thanks to her golden hair and haughty looks.
A court full of new nobles, and a small group of Perdanese nobles was no match for her easy confidence. It does not take long for her to begin dispelling the crowd of curious minor nobility making smarmy, backhanded compliments to the lesser known lords and their wives. "The cut of these Northern styles nearly hide all the extra weight on you dear." She quips to one while swiping a tall glass of a passing servants tray.
While taking a long sip she looks over her shoulder at Lucius again, shooting him a threatening look that dares him, try to outdo me again.
Lindow Moonsun roleplay
The Grey Palace, seat of the Shadow King, is located in the central district of Karbala also called the palace district, because in turn is the Lunar Palace, seat of the realm Council and other minor councils. Both palaces are located within Palace Square in the center of which stands a monolith from the reign of the Spider Queen Luciferase Mayhem.
The guests had to go through a stairway guarded by several gray guards until they reached the entrance of the palace. Once inside, a servant accompanied them to the Great Hall where they were announced by a herald. In the room, all the guests had a catering service and an orchestra.
The Great Hall was the same size as the throne room except that it lacked columns, the walls were made with the same yellow marble of the ancient elven palace of Karbala and it was crowned with a ceiling full of frescoes on stories of great warriors. , fantastic beasts and animals. There was also an access to an almond tree garden that surrounded a lake.
Little by little the guests were arriving at the Great Hall and all were informed that the ball would be opened by the Shadow King Lindow Moonsun. Lindow was in his quarters, dressed in a black uniform with silver embroidery and a blue cape. His butler Sebas knocked on his door
- Your Highness, the guests are waiting - - Thanks Sebas, I´m already going out -
Finally, Lindow reached the Great Hall and the herald announced his entrance
-His Royal Highness Lindow Moonsun, Shadow King of Shadowdale, Duke of Shadow's Bluff and Lord of Karbala-
Lindow entered the Great Hall. The guests awaited his arrival to begin the dance. Lindow looked among all the guests and approached someone. He reached out and said
- Will you grant me this dance, Duchess Aila Storme? -
Flavia Arindal roleplay
Flavia was smiling as she approached the royal dais with the others who had won or placed second in the tournament. Gracefully she accepted the second-place jousting prize -- and then staggered slightly at its weight and hurriedly passed it to a nearby attendant.
She was satisfied with her showing. She had not actually expected to do well in the swordfighting, for she knew she was only an indifferent swordswoman. As for the jousting ... as well as she could, she had upheld the honor of Shadowdale. And her own. That was the most important thing.
Well, there was *one* other important thing. It had been *delightful.* Flavia had to admit, if only to herself, that she was addicted to tournaments.
She hoped the King was not disappointed.
At any rate,, he had invited her to a party that evening, and she would certainly attend.
Lorelai Chamberlain roleplay
Into the lair of the Spider Queen, she had heard so much of the woman and her twisted palace in Karbala had been the stuff of dark fantasies as a child. How Lucuferaese had betrayed Sirion but somehow managed to escape their wrath allowing her shadowed Kingdom to grow and thrive.... Shadowdale was a fairytale with a nightmare twist. The reality had been rather tame in comparison.
Now she owned those nightmares, wearing a fitted gown of grey silks with the tracings of silvered black threads about the bodice, to give the impression of webbing. Smiling at the progress of her Duke, she gripped Sir Gislin by the arm making him her reluctant escort. The mask she chose was elegantly webbed, she imagined rather impractically that the Spider Queen would have worn such a mask as a face of office, though she knew this was childish fancy.
The ballroom was populated by knights and Lords of most every Kingdom and califate on the continent. Lucius entry cleared a path and she noted dainty Aila similarly clearing her circle with a mixture of haughty glares and cutting quips.
She reached for a glass, handing it to Gislin. "Drink this, your discomfort will fade with each sip."
To the room she shouted "A Perdanà!"
Jacelyn Goldwater roleplay
"A Perdanà!"
Jacelyn raised his glass too, though obviously uncomfortable. As soon as he heard her voice, Jacelyn made his way through the crowd and ended up behind Lorelai and Gislin, whispering so that only the nobles closest to him to could hear it, while maintaing an awkward smile.
"I hate you, I so hate you. Why did you insist?"
Almost every noble he passed by overlooked him with a mixture of disbelief and amusement. He has already shaven his shaggy beard of late, but nothing could change the fact he ended up at the tourney by accident and without any luggage. One could not so often see a man attending a gala dressed in a damaged hauberk, the same he fought in today, and with a worn heavy fur cloak at least partially covering him.
"I... I look like a bandit, and definitely not like a marshal."
Gislin Luitolf roleplay
A running courier and brought an invitation to a mighty gala. The implication of which made Gislin nervous as back in Yssrgard he never would have been invited, while in Perdan he knew his presence was expected. The man had not even brought fancy clothes with him, so little was he expecting an event, so after a long afternoon of being fitted after being drug along with Duchess Aila, he finally purchased a set. The Prince was feeling more and more out of his element as the hour for the Gala marched closer and closer, but finally, it was time. Even when he ruled the Isles such things were not done, he was totally out of his element.
As he walked up the steps leading to the Gray Palace, one of the announcers came forth asking him all sorts of questions about his personage. Gislin brushed the announcer to the side, he preferred less theatric entrances. The announcer looked him up and down, the Prince was dressed in a sumptuous green surcoat that had been painstakingly embroidered with gold brocade, leading into a pair of pants as dark as night trimmed in gold as well, held together by a swordbelt with a large gold buckle. In its holster sat his arming sword, the sidearm he never went without even if he did not take his main blade. The outfit made complete with a pair of pointed, finely cured, leather boots and a sleek black mask topped with a sleek black mask accompanied by a matching hat with a braggadocios plume. He assumed the man was obviously someone high up on the chain, so who was he to argue, shrugged his shoulders and let him past.
As Gislin walks through the door, he hears Lucius's intro and smiles to himself, such bravado. He opened his mouth to speak, but before he could get a word out a familiar woman was already dragging him off and slapping a drink in his hand. Quickly, he downed the drink hoping he would find out what is going on.
"Lady Lorelai, you will need to give me much more than this or explain why I am being dragged across the court. I am happy to oblige, but a little warning would be nice. Now, tell me, how does one socialize at these things?"
As she screams out "A Perdanà!", he looks around and joins, "Yes, A Perdanà!" He then looks over to Lorelai whispers, "I still have no idea what that means."
Aila Storme roleplay
It is shortly after joining into the joyful choir of “A Perdana” that the heralds announce the Shadow King to the event. With the others she applauds politely, admiring his finery and impressive speaking voice. As he descends into the crowd she turns back to the other nobility continuing the chat about where to source the best wines, when the woman she is talking to turns white, then pink, then red as she points over Aila’s shoulder. The nobility had parted for their King, and he stood before her looking even more dashing up close than he had from after.
“Will you grant me this dance, Duchess Aila Storme?”
The crowd around Aila is forgotten, she agrees to dance by stating confidently “Of course, it is my pleasure your Majesty.”
It would be no surprise to the other nobility of perdan that she accepts because it is well known that the young Duchess loves to dance, but there is doubt within Aila as she walks hand in hand with the Shadow King to the dance floor at the center of a strange court. As she feared the song played is one she is unfamiliar with, her hesitance is masked by a serene smile and to her great relief, Lindow can dance. He is gentle as leads her through what is evidently a courtly dance original to his realm flawlessly, tipping her off to the next steps in the dance in a low voice, dispelling all the nerves she held beforehand by casting her the occasional encouraging smile.
When the song is nearing its end, she has learned enough of the ebbs and flow of the whole dance to actually enjoy herself and as the music finally ends in a beautiful decrescendo, Aila is left smiling up at the Shadow King very impressed with him. Around them both minor nobility watch with giddy eagerness for their turn to dance with their Monarch, but the Duchess of Perdan has different plans. “In Perdan we consider two dances customary” she can feel a dozen jealous eyes boring into her, and loves it “Would you care for another, your majesty?”
Lucius Poe roleplay
"Bandit is very in right now Sir Jacelyn" Smiled Lucius as he downed his first drink.
"Drink to the living and drink to the dead my friends".
Lucius decided to stand and observe the Duchess and the Shadow King as they danced, he noticed how happy she looked, after all she was like a little sister to him now.
Maximilian Rea roleplay
Maxy found himself blinking in an errant ray of sunlight. He shifted, and a small squeak announced the presence of someone uh.....below him. He shifted the other way.....to a grunt. Ok, two people...below him. A short, clipped knock, followed by his captain pushing his way through a nearby door got him to (carefully) move his head upright. Naturally, he was rewarded with pounding in his temples, but at least he was able to see his captain, and the scowl on her face.
"Maxy, you need to get up, before anyone sees you like this. Your grandfather-"
"I donna care aboot me great pops! He be a ruthless cutthroat, lass." Maxy started to move, but a further squeak/grunt stopped him again.
The captain's eyebrow raised, slightly. "So are you, Maximilian. And you steal more things then a magpie to boot."
"I DONNA STEAL NOT'N! I PLUNDER!"
The captain breathed in, deeply. "Yes, yes. You still need to.... get yourself presentable. You need to make an appearance at a ball."
"Wazza ball, lass? I was think'n we be do'n some SWASBUCKLING!" Maxy shifted again, miming a sword, only this time he fell out of the pile of flesh in his bed.
"You did that already, Maxy."
"How'd I do?"
"You were very, very drunk, but you managed the fourth round."
"THA FOURTH? 'OW MANY MATEYS DID'N WE HAVE?"
"The fourth was the semi, semi final round, Sir."
Maxy's face screwed up, clearly failing to compute what a "semi semi" final was.
"You were the best showing of the Shadowdale nobles, at least."
Maxy grinned, childish merriment filling the room.
"HA, THA' MEANS I WON, MOST LIKE!"
The captain sighed, but tried not to smile. At least he was happy.
Lorelai Chamberlain roleplay
She laughed, turning to Jace. "You couldn't hate me if you tried!" She felt no guilt at his deportment. "I mean really Jace, have you ever looked finer? The battered knight fresh from the field... believe me now, many a noble Lady will lie under her heaving husband thinking of Jace Goldwater this night." He smiled despite himself. "And you best get drunk, because I intend to make them all jealous by dancing with you later."
Next she turned back to Gislin. "Her Grace, bade me to make sure you came, I think she was concerned you might try to escape... as to what you do, you drink, you dance... you do dance don't you? But first I would introduce you to my dearest friend." She moved back so the men could see one another. "Sir Jacelyn Goldwater, Marshal of the Paladins... you are unlikely to find a man of more fibre and bravery than he in all Perdan." Turning back to Jace, "and this is Prince Gislin of house...." her words trailed off as she caught sight of Aila in the arms of King Lindow.
She smiled to herself shaking her head, Aila had a way with Kings... nudging Gislin she directed his gaze at the dancing pair... "Now I'm not sure in reality what all this 'a Perdanà' is about.... but watching Aila now, I think that might be it..."
Luna Tempest roleplay
Luna was lost in thought as she prepares for the Gala Ball. As a Duchess of Shadowdale she was of course invited but had little desire to attend any social functions. It had felt like years to the lone lady since Luna had last left her own castle in Fontan. The harsh truth was that it actually had been years and Lady Tempest had kept hidden for such a spell that she had grow quite pale even for her.
As Luna's handmaiden finished assisting her lady don the pitch black dress adorned with raven's feathers and even a beak the handmaiden whispered, "Are you sure you want this dress milady"
"Hush" Luna spoke while shushing her servant.
Without another word the Duchess grabbed her coat and made her way to the Grey Palace.
Lady Tempest kept her hood up, only showing her face briefly to the Grey Guard as to be admitted within the castle grounds. Luna had no intention of joining the main event as it were so she avoided making a scene while she entered the castle by a less than normal means for a Duchess.
Once within the castle Luna made her way to the galley, from there she could enjoy the event in her own way and without needing to socialize. The Duchess paused for a moment before leaning on the rail pondering to herself, The Shadow King would probably disapprove of my sulking up here, When her thought was loudly interrupted...
"A Perdanà" someone shouted from below.
Luna leaned over the rail thinking someone sneezed when the cheer was returned again, "A Perdanà" and again "A Perdanà".
"Ah, I see," Lady Tempest whispers to herself, "A bit on the nose Perdan."
While everyone below enjoyed the company of each other Luna observed as the Shadow King entered the room with his first words being, "Will you grant me this dance, Duchess Aila Storme?"
The Duchess of the Shadow's Citadel was shocked by the request as she watched the two come together to join in a dance. While her King and her friend danced below Luna pondered how she missed such a development in the making. Clearly the Duchess of Shadowdale needed to get out more often.
Lindow Moonsun roleplay
Lindow looked at her smiling, took her hand and said.
-M´lady, if that is your custom then I accept a second dance-
The conductor of the orchestra reported a gallant. Lindow with Aila by the hand was in the center with other dance partners.
- This dance is less complex - Lindow said as several men lined up with him.
Once they started to play the song, Lindow began to move, playing with his feet and jumping. Then he stopped and Aila repeated the same steps, after finishing her steps they both joined in the same footwork, between glances and smiles. They stayed like this until the song finished, then Lindow took Aila's hand again, gave a kiss there and said.
- It has been a pleasure to dance with you, Duchess Aila Storme but now I must attend to other guests -
Aila Storme roleplay
By the end of the second dance Aila is deliriously happy, she has no qualms letting him go after pushing her luck for a second dance and bows briefly before disappearing into the crowd with the others. She even forgot to use her signature smug, confident expression long after the King had turned to greet some of the other guests, greeting strangers with beaming smiles instead.
There is an entire gala full of people to meet and talk to about things in the North, to crack open the mysterious culture of Shadowdale, and maybe most importantly sample some of the drinks. While talking with the minor Lords and drinking anything she didn't recognize, the Duchess of Perdan quickly finds herself enjoying the evening very much.
Miles Gillotine roleplay
For his first time Miles Gillotine was invited to a ball, no less from the Shadow king himself.
Situated in somewhere far off to watch the major nobles from various lands and dress wear they all wore in attendance, Miles enjoys the drinks, casually hoping not to get plastered for his long trip back to the boarders of his home estate. Taking keen interest in the dance of the Shadow king himself, with only he can presume to be a high ranking noble from a far land.
For most of the night Miles Gillotine, unless talked to specifically, will just remain an onlooker trying to get a handle on social structure of more notable nobles.
Gislin Luitolf roleplay
Being dragged through half the Gala, then having a drink in their hand, coupled with people screaming "A Perdana" was disorienting in and of itself. Gislin had only met this woman once, and only for a brief time, at the castle in Aix, but already she seemed to take a liking to him. Though, being dragged around by such a beautiful woman did have its perks, her being likely taken aside.
His eyes followed the gaze of Lorelai as she trailed off in her introduction to see Aila and her King. Gislin shook his head, "Now that, Lady Lorelai, is interesting. At least she looks like she's having fun." He commented, being moved little by the sight. For all, he knew this could be a diplomatic ploy, and even if it wasn't, it was not his place to question His Lady's romantic choices.
Slowly, Gislin turned his attention back to the marshal before them both. "Gislin Luitolf, a new arrival to Perdan, but certainly not new to the continent. Pleasure, kind sir. Perhaps one day I will be serving in your army."
Flavia Arindal roleplay
Flavia followed the herald to the entrance of the crowded and noisy great hall. She thought she heard some riotous toasts to Perdan ...
- Not my hall, not my business ...*
"Flavia Arindal, Viscountess of Pedrera Lighthouse!" shouted the herald. And she strode into the hall.
Her gown, graceful and flowing in shades of blue -- deep blue like the ocean off the Lighthouse, azure like the sky -- was slashed to reveal sleeves and an inner layer of cloth of gold. Her only jewels were the gold pins set with amber that held her snow-white hair in its braided coronet.
She swept a deep curtsy in the direction of the Shadow King. Rising, she looked around the hall, appraising who she knew and who to talk to --- and who to avoid --- and, definitely, where the banquet tables were. Something smelled delicious.
Isana Everlight roleplay
"À Perdana!"
The cheer echoing out through the palace gates swirled across the jeweled ears of Isana in the clear evening. Her face was flushed and eyes bright--the Lady had fallen asleep in the late afternoon and awoken only when her page, Cedric, came looking to fashion her hair.
Warmth and noise rolled over her like a wave as Isana entered the Gala hall. Gowned not in her usual green, but rather in gold with brown and blue trimmings--the colours of Perdan--with her dark chestnut hair pinned high and woven with gold ribbons, she stood at the entrance and smiled brilliantly as she took in the resplendent happenings below. A few moments passed and she floated down into the room to find a drink.
Passing by the edge of the dance floor, Isana's blue-green gaze lingered on Duchess Aila. When the lady's gaze met her own for fleeting second, Isana raised her brows with a tiny smile, acknowledging the Duchess' choice of dance partner.
Duke Lucius was resplendent himself, observing the happenings with attndants holding a shining train aloft behind him. Further around the floor she spotted Prince Gislin speaking with a masked woman in grey silks and... Sir Jacelyn, still in his travelling cloak? Puzzled, she moved closer to join them with a nod of greeting. She recognized the Lady only after a moment, masked as she was.
"Lady Lorelai, your garb is a fit for the event, very lovely! Gentlemen, a pleasure." An idea struck. "I hope you will forgive the intrusion to the conversation--I wonder, Prince Gislin, if you might soften the blow of unhorsing this Lady from today's joust with a dance?"
Lorelai Chamberlain roleplay
Lorelai's eyes narrowed playfully. "He claims two left feet, but I expect even a prince of a Fallen Kingdom, would be found wanting to decline a dance with the..." she searched for words. "Perdans Consort designate!" She settled, "I'm so pleased you have arrived Isana, I was struggling to decide which of these - fine gentlemen - to force to the floor first... now it shall be both."
A look of pure hatred was plastered on Jacelyns face as she led him to the floor. Amongst the finery, of Lords and dandies he was a welcome sight. Despite his protestations he was not a bad dancer, and as she suspected would be the case, when the young ladies saw the rugged knight in the armour that told the story of recent adventures, she was soon displaced in his arms by a string of women. She even heard his welcome laughter, bringing a smile to her own lips.
And so she found herself back with her Leige, his hand in hers, she was happy and apprehensive as always. The music was for a formation dance, but Lucius held her closely in a tune only he could hear, but she was forever happy to dance too.
"Well my Leige, Perdan may not have won the tournament... but we always slay at the parties."
Lindow Moonsun roleplay
After finishing the dance with Aila, Lindow was surrounded by the nobility who wanted to enjoy his attention. While Luna was watching from the shadow, she was hiding from the people of the Great Hall when she suddenly heard.
- Duchess Luna, can I help you with something? -
Luna looked behind her, at a prudential distance was Sebas, Lindow's main butler, a man with white hair and beard but with a muscular physique.
- M´lady,, forgive my daring... I have been serving his majesty for a long time, he is a busy man but I know that it relaxes him a lot surrounding himself with people he appreciates and that includes you - Sebas kept a serious look as his words were sincere but also impertinent, although he considered it necessary - now that you are here, I beg you to let yourself be seen by His Majesty more often ... -
