Mormont Family

Uthred Mormont - The Man who died Twice

Noble has left (2 hours, 9 minutes ago) Uthred Mormont, Count of Leibo was killed during a battle in Leibo. His unit, the Mormont Shield Wall has been partly converted into a militia unit. Leibo is now without a lord.

Uthred Mormont, Count of Leibo has been killed by Den Royalen Polderbijl Werphak (4). Gustaf Essenhorn collects the bounty. Uthred Mormont, Count of Leibo has been killed by tentil bows (14).

Legendary hero buried (7 hours, 44 minutes ago) The Mormont family commemorates the dead hero Uthred, a legend known all over the world. Admirers, friends and even enemies visit his grave.

Letter from Nicolas Harkle (1 hour, 46 minutes ago)

message to all nobles of Greater Xavax No one shall forget the legend of Liebo, Uthred the unstoppable. The man who died twice. Though one of our most fortuous souls has now departed, he left in a blaze of glory, for in a twist of fate he led the charge against the Vix mixed infantry positions, and, after suffering mortal wounds that would kill any normal human, rose and continued to rally his men to fight on through the murderous slog of arrows. I witnessed it with my own eyes and I can ensure you this is no mere exaggeration, for the fact they broke through the enemy formations while outnumbered two to one is a testament to his inability to succumb while fighting for the sovereignty of Xavax and the might of his Xerarch.

His blood was spilled, he dies a hero, he lives on as a legend, and the Imperium is stronger. He is a living testament to the legacy of our army, the Phoenix of Xavax, for he rose stronger than he fell, and unleashed his righteous fury on the enemies of our lands.

Long live Count Uthred. Long live Xavax.

– Nicolas Harkle, Knight of Isadril

Roleplay from Selenia JeVondair (37 minutes ago)

Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (49 recipients) Letter from Uthred Mormont (6 hours ago) Xerarch,

I was ordering my estate emptied as I received your missive. I stand ready in Leibo. I will champion you. They will set foot in the stronghold only over my dead body!

Uthred Mormont Noble

The Battle of Leibo - DAWN (11/22/2016)

It was to the sounds of Xavax drums that three armies clashed in the fields of Leibo. The battle raged four hours as the great forces shred one another. Vix Cavalry thundered into the Xavax front ranks, but the Imperium's defenders did not break, punishing the invaders for every inch of ground. Leading them front and center was the Xerarch herself, Selenia Fearless, flanked by her closest warriors, among whom was her oldest and dearest friend in the world, the godfather of her firstborn son and the first Phoenix Lord of Leibo...Count Uthred Mormont and his Shieldwall of stout fighters.

They fought shoulder to shoulder in the thickest part of the battle, as they had done since their younger days on Beluaterra over a decade ago, forging Selenia's Ivory Empire of Fheuvenam. Uthred had followed his Empress to Xavax, supported her at every turn. The name of House Mormont was inscribed in to the very foundations of Xavax.

He, like his Queen, was a hero.

The battle ebbed and flowed as nobles were cut down and units decimated. Tharan, the legendary Wine Trader of Xavax fell wounded when his unit was envloped by the overlarge forces of the enemy. Odwella, loyal countess of Betholm soon followed as the battle seemed to turn against Xavax. It was not until Champiion Kin, the Infamously lethal personal bodyguard of Selenia, fell wounded by an arrow while fighting at Selenia's side that the Xerarch became exposed, inflaming the enemy to greater figure as the pressed to reach her and cut her down. Dozens of her Fearless warriors fell, taking scores of attackers with them. But just when they seemed about to break through, Uthred Mormont stepped in front of his Monarch, forcing himself physically between the enemy and her. "GET THE XERARCH BACK!" He demanded over his broad shoulder.

"Damn it all, Uthred! This is not time for Brav-"

"Selenia," He said without looking back at her, "If they get to you, all is lost. Please, for me, withdraw."

Selenia hesitated. Unused to being commanded and hating the fact that she knew his words to be wise. As though sensing his chance, Uthred turned his gaze to her as his Shieldwall lumbered into position to cover Fearless's retreat.

"Uthred, they are too much! You need me here to hold the center. With Kin down, if I fall back, they'll break through and-"

Uthred laid a large, heavy hand over her shoulder. "Over my dead body, Selenia...Your Majesty." There was mirth in his eyes as the Phoenix Lord removed his hand to take up his sword once more. He turned back to the front, watching the Vix come on has Selenia was half-lead, half-dragged from the front lines. She watched his large form directing his men until she could not see him through the press of bodies anymore. She could only hear his voice, "HOLD THE LINE! HOLD THE LINE! HOLD THE LI-"

.......................................................................... ....

The forces of Greater Xavax would go on to win the day, their superior unit numbers and mobile tactics proved to be overwhelming. The managed to wound many key enemy leaders, including Lord Vizer Jeames of the Vix and King Robb of Alara, throwing the enemy command structure into temporary disarray. But the price of Victory was steep. Uthread Mormont, Phoenix Lord of the Imperium of Greater Xavax, stepping between his monarch and the largest remaining enemy force that had hoped catch her in open field. His redoubtable Shieldwall blunted the thrust entirely, and held the line long enough for Xavax units to flank and decimate their remaining enemies, eventually forcing their withdraw in a complete route. To date, it was among the most spectacular victories the Imperium had achieved. But Uthred Mormont would never leave the fields of Leibo. He was mortally wounded during his brave, decisive stand and all of Xavax mourned his loss.

– Selenia of Xavax

Roleplay from Godric Tórrarin ka Habb (1 hour, 57 minutes ago)

Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (49 recipients) There was to be no peace this day. Scoundrels, vultures, rebels, invaders. All descended on Leibo. To fear is to feel the weight of destiny upon your shoulders but today Godric's destiny was to be part of the Ballad of Uthred.

Even after his men fled in panic, Godric saw Uthred fight on. Even after wounds that would have killed an ordinary man, Uthred charged forward, destined to be stopped under a hail of arrows. He was no mewling cub but today Godric was awed. Tor lived through men and on this day he witnessed it. The great men of old still walked this world. Uthred was an irresistible force only halted by the finite nature of flesh. The battlefield cowered beneath his presence.

On this day Godric witnessed greatness and resolved himself to it.

– Godric Tórrarin ka Habb, Second Arbiter of Xavax, Author of the Codex Imperi

Roleplay from Eoghan Ui Briuin (2 hours, 53 minutes ago)

Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (49 recipients)

Three Hours Later

The fighting had been fierce and the cries of the dead and wounded rang out over the bloody battlefield. Eoghan watched as the final two units of the Vix forces broke ranks and scattered from the field in a desperate bid for survival. He could distantly recall the command he shouted at the top of his lungs, "Loose!" as his voice burned with a need to even take one more life of the archers that had slain their great champion. He felt the brush of his bow's string along his cheek as he fired out a last volley and watched as the flight of arrows soared as one to claim any life they could take before the bastards moved beyond their range. Uthred had seemed a giant of a man in the singular occasion that they met. But watching as he made the ultimate sacrifice for the Xerarch, and then rose again to continue the attack was truly awe inspiring. The greatest of men, the greatest of heroes, Uthred rose up when any other would fall. If only to take one more inch, to buy just one more precious second. That moment, Eoghan knew even then, would forever be burned in his mind. That he would bare witness to the final moments of the hero who rose would stay with him until his dying days.

When the fighting truly stopped the weight of their loss struck hard on every soldier remaining on the field. Looking for inspiration, for guidance the Sparrows gathered on Eoghan. Yet it was the captain who dared to speak when no other could. "M'Lord, what are your orders?" The silence that followed fell upon the unit to the point where the cries of the wounded and the very world itself had faded away. All eyes were upon Eoghan as he looked to the bow in his hand, and then to the sight were Uthred made his last stand. The once fresh faced youth, the minor noble from a family of up-jumped hunters, was long gone. Now stood the battle hardened knight of Xavax, ready to follow the example of Uthred. Quietly he turned his focus back to his men, and in a solemn voice he spoke two words, "We hunt."

– Eoghan Ui Briuin

The Trail of Ash

Talon Lionel Kinsey was the first to volunteer to go out into the field after the battle to retrieve the fallen hero's body. Xerarch Selenia herself joined him, mourning desperately for her fallen friend. They were followed by Hallvar Schancke, Margrave of Tota, Godric Tórrarin ka Habb, Second Arbiter of Xavax, Eoghan Ui Briuin, young Leader of Eoghan's own, and Hector Serpentis Tandaros, former Crown Prince of Melhed. These first 6 would be his pallbearers. But Uthred was well loved and more came, including Corvo Attano, Knight of Betholm, Gia Dragonfyre, Countess of Oc Lu Pesh.

Corvo was part of the solemn procession bearing Count Mormont's remains. Finding was not an easy task, due to the multitude of wounds that should have killed him long before his death. Corvo was surprised at the condition Uthred's equipment was in, save for the rents and tears where the weapons bit into flesh, it was mostly undamaged.

Once his body was located, they began the trek back to the Imperial Warcamp.

Cadewyn's men were still to wounded to be of any use, but she was fit enough. She had sent out many letters, requests, and once she had a response, she would enact the next part of her plan. For now she was one of many in the Trail of Ash, as she privately coined the procession of the fallen Phoenix Lord. Hopefully her fellow Black Swan Knights would respond to her idea and they would have a tribute to offer the Xerarch for Uthred.

But for now she simply sang soft songs of mourning and loss. Those around her, if they knew the words joined in.

Far from his home, on far-stretched land.

The burning sun doth scorch and shine.

The horror of empty hours humbles him.

Oh to fight, to kill, and feed one's rage!

But diligently, he drones away at his duties.

To fight for fame, is not every man's fate.

He reads, and writes, and kinfolk remembers,

Oh to hug, to hold, his family at home!

His wife and children miss him and mourn.

They're aware always of his long absence,

And await his return with unreserved hope.

Longing for the man and father they love.

Alone in the desert, a land dry and dead,

His Gods and Ancestors, his unseen guards.

The heathen's heart remains strong and hale.

He is never forgotten by his faithful friends.

– Cadewyn Thunderborn

Nicolas Harkle stared off at the western horizon as he followed the procession back towards the Imperial warcamp. The sky was dark and gloomy with impending rain, not unlike his first week as a Phoenix noble as he yelled orders at his captain to lead the march out of Isadril as they set forth in blistering rain to the gloomy region. Liebo was a ravaged border region, and even before Nicolas had been knighted in the first Feast of the Black Swan he had led a mercernary company through the region, stopping only to pick from the Vix and GX corpses that always tended to litter the area.

Now he walked along a path, watching the sunset as he guarded the corpse of a true hero. One who put his life on the line, and lost it, only to rise again to strike the enemy down. A true hero, one worthy of song and tale.

He began thinking of a rallying speech to give to his men after the burial was over.

Praises and Honorings

Roleplay from Liam Rhynehardt (12 minutes ago)

message to all nobles of Greater Xavax Today on a day of thanks we lament... today shall not only be known as a day for appriciation but a day of lamentation and grieving. During the second greatest battle of Leibo (in recent times) we lost a pillar of Greater Xavax. Lord Uthred Mormont. I call him Lord because though titles change he always conducted himself as such. We lament for a man who gave much in service both the crown and the nation of the Phoenix. The proce was steep ans he paid it anyway.

He was fountain of knowledge just waiting to be tapped. He was a HERO. He died as such.. in fact the bards tell the tale as follows: Lord Mormont died once in battle and said: "NAY!! I AM A PHOENIX LORD AND I WILL RISE AGAIN!!" He got up from deaths embrace and took his sword again.. he fought with tooth and nail. HE GAVE EVERYTHING in service to his Xerach... his friend. I only wish to die a death as honorable as the good Lord Mormont.

We lament not for the passing of a beacon but for the knowledge and grace, that has also left the real with him. Uthred will be sorely missed. In a time of Such as these when so many new faces have emerged to answer the Crownguard and the Xerarchs call to arm, they will need leadership. Knights and Dames all looking for tutelage and guidance and it is here that will suffer. Lord Mormont's experience will be missed, his blade will not go unnoticed on the battlefield and his uncanny ability to reign in foolhardy knights in the throws of bloodlust and passion will not be forgotten. Xavax just a became alot lonier, and the skies above have gained another bright star to guide us in the troubling times ahead..

I know I am not privileged to ask it of you. But I will for the sake of a good man and leader... when you lament for LORD UTHRED MORMONT you do so knowing that he gave in service of the crown ans his land.

From a personal standpoint, I was not there when a good man fell. We lost a hero.. A knight brave enough to take to the fields knowing death was lurking. I shall declare myself a hero of xavax in his honor. If and when I fall I will die with pride that I died the way a LEGEND OF Greater Xavax did...

thank you all for you time

– Liam Rhynehardt

Roleplay from Edward Ulric (9 hours, 9 minutes ago)

message to all nobles of Greater Xavax Admittedly, Edward had never truly known the great hero, Uthred Mormont. Naturally he had heard of him, he was quite well known even to those not of noble birth or heritage. But when he finally saw the man, not in person but on the battlefield, he was greatly impressed and inspired. As an archer, he had been able to see the battlefield as his troops rained death upon the vile forces of the Vix. He had watched in utter amazement as it took what would kill two powerful men to bring him down. Despite his grief at the loss for his country, his breast also swelled with pride. He truly understood that not only he, but his fellows all around him as well, would die before giving up on the light of the Phoenix Empire.

After the battle had ended and all invading forces had been crushed, pursued, and slain, he had finally received a moment to reflect on the monumental deeds of one man. And from that moment he vowed that he would do everything in his power to live up to the legend of the Man Who Died Twice. He would make certain that Greater Xavax would become even more wondrous and powerful than it already was. He would become a Hero himself, believing that if he could match even a quarter of the man Uthred the Unstoppable was, he was bound to succeed in his goals.

At the Black Swann, Edward bought two great drafts of beer and poured them out in honor of the Hero Uthred. One beer would never be enough to satisfy so great a man!

– Edward Ulric

Roleplay from Eoghan Ui Briuin (1 day, 17 hours ago)

message to all nobles of Greater Xavax For nearly a full day after the climactic clash at Leibo the Sparrows had hunted down the lingering enemies trying to flee the field. At first lead by their Captain, Roderic, as Eoghan had been one of the six to bare the body of Uthred the Unstoppable, the champion of Xavax, the man who died twice. The somber march along the Trail of Ash back to their camp was made all the more mournful as Cadewyn's lovely voice gave fruit to an equally fitting dirge for their hero. Eoghan kept silent for the entire trek back to the Imperial Warcamp. His mind instead filled with the memory of the shield wall's ever present advance in the face of enemy fire. He thought to the man who rose up after falling once to slay more of the enemy as they drew back, and in those final moments while the entirety of the Xavax archer units still on the field rushed into range, how the enemy finally brought low their champion. It was still raw to the young lord, the pain, the fury that swelled within him. He knew his men were out there even now on his orders to bring low any and all who might linger. Eoghan knew full well that when Lord Mormont's body was safe within their camp he would join them. For every soul that bore allegiance to either the Vix or the bandits that remained would not live to see another day should he or his sparrows catch them.

As time passed Eoghan withdrew from the public eye for a brief time. When at last he returned it was with a letter in hand to the Lady Cadewyn and an arrow from his own quiver. The note he delivered in private, but the arrow he took to the body and spoke to any who might have been around. "My family has a tradition, one born long before my grandmother Briuin was raised up and elevated us so long ago. When we got a kill we retired that specific arrow as it had served its purpose and was due the rest it deserved. I've carried on this tradition with those in my own unit. Each man and woman who died I would take an arrow from their quiver and carve their name upon it to retire the arrow as a final send off to them. Now, Lord Mormont did not fight with the bow and arrow but the shield and sword. He was a presence that inspired all to see his might on the field of battle, and all knew that to follow his soldiers was to follow glory. So to Uthred Mormont, the Count of Leibo, the Champion of Xavax I offer an arrow of my own to retire in honor of one of the greatest heroes our people shall ever know." As his voice hung in the air the youthful noble took the arrow in hand and set it gently beside his body. Closing his eyes and hanging his head he whispered a small prayer before stepping back and soon withdrawing fully. Eoghan left the camp shortly after that, to join his men in hunting the remnants of the enemy army down. All the while the arrow remained resting beside Uthred's body with the name carved into the shaft facing upward for any and all to see. Uthred Mormont.

– Eoghan Ui Briuin

The Blood Debt

Letter from Selenia JeVondair (3 days, 10 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (49 recipients) Gustaf Essenhorn,

You have claimed something precious from me. I cast a Blood Debt upon you, and I will have that price in full.

As you are of Royal standing, you are afforded three ways for you to lift this debt. The first and most satisfying would be to fight me. The other two require...discussion. You will hear all three. You are granted safe passage to the Imperial War Camp. I will look Uthred's killer in the eyes first before your fate is decided.

Fail to attend me, and all the world will know you for a coward. Selenia JeVondair Xerarch of Greater Xavax

Letter from Gustaf Essenhorn (3 days, 6 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (49 recipients) Xerarch Selenia,

You cry out for the death of a man on the battlefield, known as a Hero amongst friends and foes? A most befitting end for one to choose that path I say, some might even claim it to be the only true end for a Hero.

Considering your shared history together perhaps you felt it to be untimely, and now wish for him to be at your side for many more years? That might be a proper basis of your anger, but hardly for a blood debt. I slew a man in fair combat, whilst my army was largely routed and me and mine were the last to stand, and you accuse me? Most curious.

Leading axemen from the hills of Eldoret made me a fiend with the axe, as your Uthred can attest to, but a piss poor swordsman.

However, I have waged war on this continent for the last twenty years and long lost my fear of death. Issue your duel if you feel so obliged, I'll use his sword for I do not own one.

War has its price for all involved, you just paid yours, and I will pay mine.

Cordially,

Gustaf Essenhorn

Roleplay from Gustaf Essenhorn (3 days, 5 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (49 recipients) 'The letter has been brought to the Xerarch?' 'It has my Lord.'

'Very well, I'll head off for her camp, she'll want to see me one way or another. Before that, bring me another parchment, I'll scribble this one myself.`

Fellow Vixens,

As you will have read by now I slew Uthred of Xavax and their Xerarch Selenia seems to have been somewhat infuriated.

A duel has been issued, and I intent to accept. My chances are slim, as I never favored the sword. However, I have never been one to duck a fight, and won't start now.

Should I meet my demise, do not mourn me, do not insult our enemies or cry out. I have enjoyed my time in this life and am proud of what we have achieved here in Vix Tiramora.

The gods know I have taken my fair share of lives, I am ready to leave should they wish it.

Most cordially,

With firm hand Gustaf pushes his signet ring in the soft wax, sealing the scroll and signifying its authenticity. He rises to his feet, grabs a bear fur cloak from the stand near the entrance of the tent and steps outside.

'Ready my horse and bring me that big bastard's sword. I'll see you all tonight, or in the next life. '

Roleplay from Selenia JeVondair (3 days, 1 hour ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (49 recipients) After conquering the region of Leibo, the Army of the Imperium occupied its chiefest town. Many of the more renowned imperial aristocrats were put up in Inns, taverns. Some had imposed themselves on the locals to ensure they had a roof over their head. The Manorhouse of Leibo, however, was one of the newer, and certainly largest, buildings in the region. First built by Fallangaurd nobles who rushed in after the Great Ice receeded a decade ago, and lately occupied by a Vix administrator, it now served as the future home and seat of the Phoenix Lord of Leibo, Imperial Count Uthred Mormont.

At least, it would have been.

It was a three-story mansion, It's ostentation indicative of the wealth of Leibo. White columns marched evenly across it's face, adding an aura of finery. Outside, a gilded phoenix banner flew, indicating the Royal presence within. Stern-faced guards patrolled the premise, and an ever-burning brazier of flames were constantly being attended to a safe distance from the entrance. These were the first things that Gustaf Essenhorn, former Lord Vixer, noticed as he was guided to the grounds. No one had spoken to him after he'd arrived and had been identified. He'd merely been given an escort and lead through the sprawling Imperial warcamp that had spilled outside the village. Several times, he'd noticed that he was not being taken by the most direct route, instead he was toured through his enemy's vast defenses in a clear display of power. He showed no indication that he was aware, content to merely be lead and contemplate everything he'd ever heard about Xerarch Selenia.

Though he paid them no mind, there were a lot of soldiers who stopped what they were doing to regard him coldly. Lots of them.

Arriving at the mansion, he was asked to dismount and declare his weapons. Gustaf complied, fully expecting to be disarmed and somewhat surprised when he was not. The guards simply nodded and lead him to the door, seemingly unconcerned as to the potential risk he was to their monarch. The Outer guards passed him off to the Inner guards, who wore the elite markings of the Xerarchs own Fearless unit. He was appraised a second time, then lead within. The interior of the mansion opened into a large, gardened courtyard. Gustaf stepped forward boldly, he was a royal after all, even if that had a different meaning here than the elected status it was back in the Republic, he was not content to simply be meekly lead. He was surprised to here the door close behind him, however. looking back, he found that he was alone. The guards were gone, (heath/mana potions along with a save point) and the only path left to him was forward. The path was white gravel and it crunched underfoot as he wound his way passed ferns, flowers, and trees toward the courtyard's center. He could hear the music of water fountains, though his vision was obscured by the flora.

Suddenly, the path opened up to a central space with yet another brazier. The Xavax, it seems, were rather fond of fire. Next to it was a small table with a metal guantlet set upon it. One he recognized as being part of the armor of Uthred Mormont. Stoking the fire was a woman with not another soul in sight, clad in flexible leather and chainmail. She stood with his back to him, listening to his approach. She was shorter than he, her figure obscured by her weapons and armor and her hair braided in a intricate and foreign pattern that any visitor to the Desert of Silhouettes in Dwilight might recognize. He stood a respectful distance away, uncertain of how to proceed, but knowing that this must be the Xerarch. When she finally turned to look at him, he was able to see her face for the first time. He knew from common knowledge that she was much older than he, but she appeared to have only just entered her 30's. Fountain of Youth magic, no doubt. He squared up under her gaze to ensure she knew she faced an equal.

She did not appear convinced.

An uncomfortable amount of time passed while the two royals took the measure of eachother. When it seemed she would remain silent, he opened his mouth to speak-

"-I know who you are." Selenia interrupted him. "I knighted a kinswoman of yours, Triss of the Vales, myself when she was just a girl. Never did I imagine I would want to kill a member of her family as much as I desire to kill you" she said as she picked up Uthred's gauntlet and walked slowly to him, slapping it to her palm as she did so. and stopping in arms reach of him. Gustaf had not noticed it before she spoke, so calm had her demeanor appeared. Hers was a seething, implacable sort of fury, and to have such raw emotion focused on him was not the most pleasant experience of his life.

He was in very real danger, he knew, despite how ridiculous he thought this whole 'Blood Debt' matter was. It was very clear that she was dead serious about it. He new from her letter, however, that there must be some way for him to not have to fight this woman. Not now or here at any rate. She'd mentioned that there were three ways to settle the debt...

She watched him, unblinking. There was no threat in her body language. She was relaxed, which made the very real threat in her pale blue eyes all the more palpable. She waited, watching him.

Roleplay from Gustaf Essenhorn (2 days, 21 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (47 recipients) What she lacked in height, she amply made up with her imposing demeanor and stern speech. This was clearly a woman accustomed to leading others and fully expecting to be obeyed, no exceptions. Her pale blue eyes pierced his, he guessed her relaxed posture to be a facade, like the poisonous snakes of desert realms, perfectly still, yet coiled to spring into action at a moments notice.

"-I know who you are." she spoke, interrupting the half sentence he started, "I knighted a kinswoman of yours, Triss of the Vales, myself when she was just a girl. Never did I imagine I would want to kill a member of her family as much as I desire to kill you."

He watched the oversized gauntlet she held, it stirred a vague mental image of a man clad in a full suit of the armor hacking a bloody swath through several of his best warriors before stopping in front of him.

Pursing his lips, Gustaf slowly let loose the breath he had held and felt his heart slow the fast staccato. He was in grave, palpable danger, it made his skin tingle and eyes widen, the corners of his lips curling into a genuine smile. This is what he enjoyed, normally only found in the heat of heated melee.

"Xerarch Selenia, formerly Empress of the Ivory Vale I believe? The honor is all mine I assure you. It's quite the marvel to be meeting you in person, never would have expected such in all honesty, although the circumstances could be better, I agree. "

One hand rested casually on the head of the bearded axe that was tucked through a loop of his belt, with the other he placed a large sword on the small table before continuing, free hand gesturing along with his words.

"You will have to forgive my good manners, I spend my first years as a Knight in service of Perdan, before the secession of Vix you see, during the war against Eppy. Was awarded rulership of Eldoret, I'm not a native. Terrible mannered hillmen, excellent miners and masons though, equally skillfull warriors. But I digress, apologies."

He pursed his lips and peeled his eyes away from her, brows creasing in thought as his hand idly fondled the axehead. He stood there, still, with Selenia equally unmoving. A crackle of the nearby brazier shook him from his thoughts, eyes flicking back to her, his cordial demeanor and boyish smile fading.

"But here we are, nevertheless. Two Royals of opposing realms, at war, and I slew your friend and champion." He threw a quick glance at the sword he had lain on the table, gesturing briefly to it before continuing.

"All considering I figured it best to.. Parley in person, putting thought to letter can feel so.. Cramped. How did you intent for us to proceed, Xerarch Selenia..?"

Roleplay from Gustaf Essenhorn (2 days, 12 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (39 recipients) Selenia turned slowly, keeping her quarry in her field of vision as he paced casually around her, speaking as he laid his sword down. He pursed his lips and peeled his eyes away from her, brows creasing in thought as his hand idly fondled the axehead. He stood there, still, with Selenia equally unmoving. A crackle of the nearby brazier shook him from his thoughts, eyes flicking back to her, his cordial demeanor and boyish smile fading.

As he read her, so too did she read him. She recognized the lighthearted behavior for the facade it was. He was buying some breathing room as much as taking her measure. In another time, she might have slipped a toothy smile at him, but for the blood still staining Uthred's Guantlet. She bit her bottom lip, an affectation from her girlhood and the force outward show of emotion she'd made thus far.

"But here we are, nevertheless." he continued, "Two Royals of opposing realms, at war, and I slew your friend and champion." He threw a quick glance at the sword he had lain on the table, gesturing briefly to it before continuing. "All considering I figured it best to.. Parley in person, putting thought to letter can feel so.. Cramped. How did you intent for us to proceed, Xerarch Selenia...?"

She regarded him for a long time. Rage, bitter grief, and mental exhaustion warred within her. She struggled not to let it show as she strived to find the words. It was an activity that she'd had to learn over the years. It did not come naturally to her.

What did come naturally, however, was violence.

With deliberate slowness, she drew her twin kukris, well worn and trusty weapons meant for close work; the hacking and breaking of bone. These were the tools of her trade that had traveled with her across continents and across decades.

"I intend to claim the value of Uthred's life of you, Vix...." She said, the ice in her demeanor warming with potent threat. Whether Gustav tensed as she drew her weapons, she could not tell. His self-control was admirable, but she thought she detected his eyes widening slightly, as though in surprise, when she placed her weapons on the table besides his sword, "...but perhaps not today," she said, looking up at him.

"I can kill you, Sir, make no mistake. This will be no battlefield where arrows fly and the press of men and metal smash in the chaos of war. You will be on your own...and in my element. I have stalked the night alone, hunting beasts and dark creatures not of this world. I have trained with the blade for decades and won kingdoms by the edge of bared steel. I do not say these things to cow you, I have taken your measure, and I do not think you a man who can be cowed. A coward would not have come before me, or within miles of me. Rather, I think you are a man of fortitude...a trait that I respect..."

She took a breath, holding his eyes with her own. "No, Your Highness, I say these things because I want you to know that barring a miracle, you will die here. Just like this-" She reached out, her hands gripping his belt and trapping his hand so as to prevent him from drawing his ax as pulled him near enough that he could smell the scent of her hair and the oiled leather armor she wore. "-close, like this. And as your lifeblood leaks out onto the rocks, I will hold your gaze with my own and inhale the last breath you take in this world. Do not doubt it."

Selenia released him and stepped back, her show completed. She'd meant to rattle him, taken such liberties. She doubted a true-born nobleman had ever been handled so roughly, much less by a woman. She did not wait to discover if she had succeeded, but turned her back to him, walking to the other side of the flaming brazier to place it between them with the table of weapons on the side within easy and equal stride of both of them.

"Uthred's spirit is restless. Your death will bring his soul peace..." she turned to him, a wetness in her eyes as she spoke of Uthred that made her seem a thousand times more human than the viper of a few moment ago, "but your death would not please him. Nor would it honor his legacy. And so I've called a Blood Debt upon you. A custom of my late-husband's people in the Desert of Silhouettes that gives you an option. You may chose to settle it by spilling more blood, or by ending the spilling of it. You may fight me, and die, or who knows, perhaps you will kill me? Maybe..."

"Or..."

She waited, ensuring that she had the former Lord Vixer's wrapt attention, "You can either take Uthred's place in the Phoenix Court to serve me as my Lord of Leibo. And last but not least, I can allow you to return to your people at your word of honor that you would work tirelessly to broker a peace between your people and my own...you would walk free, but be under the threat of death should I ever meet you again with your work towards peace unfinished. And, if you succeed, the Blood Debt is lifted forever. This will appease Uthred's spirit, and honor his legacy."

She waited for Gustav now, taking his measure once again as the flames licked the air between them.

Roleplay from Gustaf Essenhorn (2 days, 4 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (39 recipients) She closed in on him and gripped his hand tight, keeping it on the head of the axe. He caught a whiff of.. What was that.. Cinnamon?

"And, if you succeed, the Blood Debt is lifted forever. " She concluded, "This will appease Uthred's spirit, and honor his legacy."

A moment of silence as she watched him, eyes roaming his visage. He offered a thoughtful look in return before the boyish smile reappeared, the corners of his eyes creasing in mirth as a chuckle escaped his lips.

"Xerarch Selenia, surely no!"

He threw his hands upwards in a quasi surprised manner, brief shake of his head.

"After all I had heard of you I was trembling with excitement, perhaps this one ruler will be different, yet the options presented to me are of little surprise, Xerarch Selenia."

"Its either servitude, cooperation, or death." He clacked his tongue in distaste, then ran his free hand over his chest, straighting the creases in his tabard.

"We might as well dispense with the formalities. Neither of those are viable options, you know as well as I do. But I will oblige and run them down. "

He set into motion at a steady walk through the available space, counting on his hand.

" I am one of the founders of Vix Tiramora, servitude as your new champion and Lord of Leibo isn't remotely a choice. Besides, I like Eldoret, a lot. "

A second finger straightened on his counting hand, two now tapping his other open hand.

"Number two is an option, surely! If Xavax ceases it's attacks on allies of Vix, and forgo its foreign policy of expansionism, then you will find me a great proponent of peace, with Xavax that is. Those in the north still have a.. blood debt or two to pay, let me assure you! "

Three fingers now appeared, tapping the hand as he came to a stop, a stride away from Selenia.

" And number three.. Well, rather a misnomer to be designating that as an option, wouldn't you agree? Death comes to us all, this life is but a whisper in the wind compared to what comes."

He let both hands hang by his side, cocking his head slightly to the side as he smiled at her.

"It might have appeared as if the choice was mine Selenia, but as you can see, it really is all, in your hands. "

Roleplay from Selenia JeVondair (2 days, 2 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (39 recipients) "No."

It was one word, a small word, but with a wealth of meaning. It would remind Gustaf that Selenia was closer to being a wounded she-wolf cornered in her lair than guileful diplomat. She walked towards the table, boots crunching on gravel, her eyes never leaving his as she picked up her Kukris and spoke. "these," she emphasized the weapons, "is the only choice you leave in my hands. The Xavax will never give up, never surrender. Your choice is no choice at all."

She tossed Uthred's Gauntlet, it fell heavily, symbolically, between them.

"I have declared true war only twice in my time, and one of those was against King Robb. That was a justified war, a righteous war, and but for your interference, would have been a long-finished war. You are the invader here, you and your allies are the interlopers who declared war on me. But Xavax is a fact, now, Highness, one that you will have to learn to accept, because what I have built here cannot be undone. You are a warrior, I suspect you are much better with the sword than you let on. You may well have the chance to kill me. But the course of Xavax is set. My people are unlike anything you have ever known. Their passion, their solidarity, their stubborn refusal to give up will ensure that our fires will keep burning even if I am gone. My named heir will continue my work, my knights will continue to grow and thrive"

Selenia rolled her shoulders and twisted, limbering up. "I am ready to die, Vixen. I've lead a good enough life and can think of worse ways of passing from this world than becoming an ever-burning martyr for my people remain eternally unified behind and against you."

She stopped her stretching. "The Blood Debt will be satisfied, whether it is with your or mine does not matter and unless you can think of something else..." She placed some emphasis on the last phrase. Giving Gustav a last straw to grasp at.

"I am ready to die, Vixen. Can you say the same?"

Roleplay from Gustaf Essenhorn (2 days, 1 hour ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (39 recipients)

A distant stare in his eyes as Gustaf cast down his eyes at the gauntlet at his feet. As they say, his life did indeed flash in front of his eyes, but not the parts he imagined. The days as a Page waiting on Lords and Ladies, his years as squire, finally his rise to Knighthood in Perdan. Not a single flash of the battles he waged, they all seemed so pointless at this point.

"No indeed, Selenia. I tried, but could not imagine another way. It would appear, neither could you. So this is it then. "

He walked over to the table where she stood and reached for the sword, gripping it loosely, feeling the neigh perfect balance, a better sword than he ever held. He held it up, gave it a casual swoop through the air, then walked back to the gauntlet picking it up before turning to face her and tossing it back.

"A martyr you say! Many have been made Martyr for Perdan, for Eponllyn, for Caligus and now Xavax. They all rose, and eventually they all fall, like the ebb and tide of the seas. Poetic, is it not? "

He cast a smile at her once more as she took her weapons, unbuckling his axe belt and casting it aside with his cloak.

"Whatever the outcome my dear Xerarch, it is so, and could not be otherwise."

Roleplay from Selenia JeVondair (2 days, 1 hour ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (39 recipients) "So be it" Selenia replied, resigning herself to what was coming. "I take no pleasure in this. The Blood Debt Will be satisfied." You have now challenged Gustaf Essenhorn, Royal of Vix Tiramora, Representative of Eldoret to a duel. Wait for the reply and remember that for the duel to be resolved both of you must be in the same region.

As Selenia made ready, Gustav noticed the telltale-bulge of bandages beneath Selenia leather and chainmail. The Xerarch was wounded? That's right! Sir Ricard's Halberders had broken through to her in the last skirmish. Perhaps Gustav could not count on Selenia to be any slower or less lethal...but maybe his chances were better than he tought.

If he could only use that knowledge...

Duel accepted (2 days, 1 hour ago) Gustaf Essenhorn, Royal of Vix Tiramora, Representative of Eldoret has accepted your challenge. Meet him in the same region and the duel will be resolved at the next sunrise or sunset.

Duel Postponed (2 days ago) The duel between Selenia JeVondair, Xerarch of Greater Xavax, Royal of Greater Xavax and Gustaf Essenhorn, Royal of Vix Tiramora, Representative of Eldoret is being postponed because Selenia is not fit to fight.

Roleplay from Gustaf Essenhorn (1 day, 22 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (19 recipients) "So be it" Selenia replied, resigning herself to what was coming. "I take no pleasure in this. The Blood Debt Will be satisfied." As Selenia made ready, Gustav noticed the telltale-bulge of bandages beneath Selenia leather and chainmail. The Xerarch was wounded? That's right! Sir Ricard's Halberders had broken through to her in the last skirmish. Perhaps Gustav could not count on Selenia to be any slower or less lethal...but maybe his chances were better than he thought.

If he could only use that knowledge... He would just have to see during the fight, await his chance..

He dipped his chin in a grave, final nod before grabbing the sword with both hands and lifting it, the low Fool's guard was the first, and honestly only, that came to mind. The days that he was tutored with the sword were long past and he would have to 'wing it' as the peasants oft said, not a thought that pleased him. The Xerarch squared off, hunched in a fighting pose with both of her bladed weapons in her hands, taking a moment before springing into action. A forward leap, Gustaf gauged her speed and distance, made ready to deflect, perhaps evade. It was the latter, the two curved fighting knives cutting at the spot he stood.

During his side step he swung his blade from a low to a side guard and now turned his torso, adding momentum to the swing as he aimed to cut her in half! Alas, she too was swift to evade and managed to scramble out of harms way. From the crouch she jumped forward, twin blades rising to cut, a cry, a blade slipped to the floor, and she was near the table holding to keep her balance. A hand was pressed against her side and blood flowed.

"Did my cut strike true?" Gustaf inquired, his guard remaining up, eyes searching her form.

"Nay, this is your kinsman's doing, the halberd bites deep." She replied, some of the fire fleeting from her eyes.

Some time passed, both parties involved remaining at their place, the brazier's flames licking its metal cage, the soft crack and puff of the logs singing to the rhythmic ticking of blood dripping to the floor.

"So.. Either.. this is the most intricate dueling trick I have witnessed, or you are clearly not fit for a duel of honor, Xerarch Selenia."

Roleplay from Selenia JeVondair (1 day, 20 hours ago) Message sent to everyone in the region Leibo (19 recipients) Duel Postponed (3 hours, 20 minutes ago) The duel between Selenia JeVondair, Xerarch of Greater Xavax, Royal of Greater Xavax and Gustaf Essenhorn, Royal of Vix Tiramora, Representative of Eldoret is being postponed because Selenia is not fit to fight.

"So..." Gustav observed, "Either.. this is the most intricate dueling trick I have witnessed, or you are clearly not fit for a duel of honor, Xerarch Selenia." The Vixen Royal said, a trace of his boyish grin filtering into his tone.

Selenia ignored him, keeping one blade up to ward him off while she closed her eyes. The gravel under Gustaf's boots kept her aware of where he was and concentrated. Introspecting, reaching for the magic...

Selenia had experienced much in her life. She'd killed everything from Alpha Wyverns and predatory Griffons to Litches and true daemons. She'd survived several magical assaults on her person by the infamous assassin, Stegman Hemmings, and she'd a fair bit of sorcerous knowledge all her own from the scrolls she'd read. Such events leave invisible marks on the soul, reservoirs of eldritch power left behind my semi-magical beings. It was only a few weeks ago that she'd been ensorceled with the healing life-magic of a Fountain of Youth scroll to ease the birth of her son. Indeed, rumor had said it was because of the mana that infused her that she'd been able to bear a child of such lineage in the first place...

Some of that power had yet to ebb from her bones. This is what she reached for, and upon finding it, mentally directed it to flow threw her hand and into the wound. An outline of ember-warm light encircled her hand as blood flowed back into the wound and the flesh slowly knit beneath. Returned to active duty You have returned to active duty. You are in Leibo. It will take about 2 days for your wounds to fully heal. During this recovery time, you receive two hours less per turn.

Wounds Healing You are recovering from your wounds, and able to act and send messages, though you can't do as much as usual in a day.

Selenia inspected her work, feeling drained, but strong. Gustaf made no movement toward her, but he had the good manners looked surprised as she removed the bloodied bandage and prodded gingerly at her side. Satisfied, she adjusted her armor and stood. There was sheen of sweat on her brow now, matting her braids, and she still appeared to favor her side a bit. But she looked no less read nor deadly than before. She kneeled to retrieve the Kukri she'd lost and dropped back into a fighting stance.

"The Blood Debt will be satisfied." She repeated implacably.

The Gilded Duel was still on.

Roleplay from Selenia JeVondair (4 hours, 10 minutes ago) message to all nobles of Greater Xavax

Duel (19 hours, 48 minutes ago) Gustaf Essenhorn, Royal of Vix Tiramora, Representative of Eldoret meets his challenger Selenia JeVondair, Xerarch of Greater Xavax, Royal of Greater Xavax for the agreed duel till death. Selenia has decided to use the 'overrun' strategy while Gustaf has chosen the 'neutral' strategy, giving Selenia the advantage. The duel runs its course, until Selenia delivers a fatal blow. The healers carry Gustaf away, seriously wounded but still breathing. Selenia, although the winner, has also been slightly injured.

Gustaf took a neutral stance, wary of the sorcery he had just witnessed and night respectful of Selenia's lethal reputation. Even so, he was not prepared for her tremendous aggression. She leapt tords him blades singing. He brought his sword up from the low fools guard as though to skewer the Xerarch with her own momentum. It seemed as though it might even have worked as his steel kissed her flesh...until he realized that Selenia, ever cunning, had accepted the being hit, intentionally not avoiding his sword in order to trap it.

He realized too late that he Xavax Royal had him exactly where she wanted him.

He fumbled frantically as Selenia's viscious kukris came in, desperately struggling to recap what his masteeshad taught him of fighting all those years ago. Instinctively, he recalled the Ax he kept in his belt and brought it up. He managed to fend off the blade that had been intended for his neck, but could do nothing to stop the blade that slipped under his armor and deep into his side, seriously wounding him.

Gustaf fell, his lifeblood spurting out on to the gravel. Wincing, Selenia knelt to gather some into a vial. "The Blood Debt is satisfied... For now." She said as she stoppered and stored it away. It would be transported to Rest with Ulfang. "I'll be keeping this..." she said as she picked up Gustaf's sword, the weapon he'd used to kill Uthred with. "as an offering to Uthred's spirit."

Gustaf struggled to keep his eyes open and her in his vision, but he was loosing a great deal of blood. He did not hear when she herself summoned healers and servants, did not feel himself being lifted from the ground. Everything blurred...but he did get one last clear image of the Xavax Monarch, who spoke to him as he was carried past her. "I suppose Uthred's spirit did not want you dead, Vix. You will live.Until next we meet."

Though it sounded ominous, it was merely a farewell. Gustaf lost consciousness.

Selenia, nursing her own wound, turned to a servant and placed the blood vial and Gustaf's sword in the servants hands with instruction "Place these in Uthred's tomb. Spread word throughout the Imperium that I have avenged the death of Uthred the Unstoppable by humbling his killer." She toyed with the vial she'd drawn before bidding the servant leave her presence.

"Harm one of mine," she said to herself," and the price will be payed in blood."

Shrine of the Undying

The Shrine to Uthred the Unstopable had been erected where he had fallen: On the battlefield.

Just over a year ago, the tilled fields of Leibo had played host to one of the greatest battles of the Xavax Wars. Elements from Perdan, Vix, Alara, Minas Nova, Perleone, and of course the Imperium met and clashed in a cacaphony of organized chaors. Greater Xavax took the field that day, but at a price: The sacrifice of one of Uthred Mormont, on of the Imperium's great heroes, was killed in battle. Dozens of warriors, Selenia among them, witnessed his fall, the mortal wound that no man could survive. And yet, Uthred had risen up and fought on, forcing the enemy to distraction. He died a second time to give Xavax the time they needed to reposition and route the enemy.

Since then, there had been numerous sightings and reports of Uthred manifesting to warriors during their greatest hours of need and inspiring them.

The Shrine itself was a simple affair. A slab of quarried rock marked where he had been buried, ringed by steel torches radiating outward in a spiral pattern. Upon each of these hung a shield, one for each man of Uthred's infamous unit, the Shieldwall, who had fallen beside their lord. Inlaid into the rock itself was the very shield Uthred had used to defend his queen and country. Looking closer at the slab, one could see the slab of rock had been chiseled with script telling the story of Uthred.

Additional Notes

Uthred was present for the birth of Högni Peredhel JeVondair and accepted the role of godfather.