Highvale Family/Cedric

The Tale of Cedric Highvale

Cedric Highvale, the middle son of Thaddeus and Elara Highvale, was born in a time of relative peace in the rugged and ever-perilous lands of Beluaterra. He grew up in Western Watto, nestled in the shadow of his older brother Aric and charged with the care of his younger brother Gareth. The Highvale family was well-respected, and their legacy was one of honor and duty, with a lineage rooted in the turbulent history of the region.

Childhood in Western Watto

From a young age, Cedric displayed an uncanny knack for blacksmithing, a skill passed down through the generations of the Highvale lineage. His grandfather whom he was named after, Cedric, a master blacksmith, had instilled in Cedric’s father, Thaddeus, the importance of craftsmanship and the honor that came with it. Cedric’s early years were spent in the heat of the forge, his hands learning to shape metal with the same precision and care that his ancestors had.

But Cedric’s childhood was not solely confined to the forge. As the middle child, he often found himself caught between the expectations placed upon Aric, the heir, and the carefree spirit of Gareth, the youngest. Cedric was the balancing force, the quiet strength that held the family together. He was a keen observer, learning from Aric’s leadership and Gareth’s ingenuity, and he grew into a young man with a deep understanding of his family’s values and the harsh realities of their world.

Western Watto was a land of both beauty and danger. The sprawling badlands and rolling hills were home to not only the Highvale estate but also to creatures and threats that could arise at any moment. Cedric’s formative years were marked by rigorous training in combat and survival, skills that would serve him well in the years to come. His father ensured that all his sons were prepared for the inevitabilities of their tumultuous homeland, and Cedric, though he preferred the forge, never shirked from his duties.

Young Adulthood and the Forge

As Cedric grew older, his skill in blacksmithing became renowned within the Highvale estates. The weapons and armor he crafted were of the highest quality, each piece a testament to his dedication and artistry. His work earned him the respect of the Emerald Blades, the elite soldiers of the Highvale family, who trusted their lives to the strength of his steel. Despite his success, Cedric felt a restless yearning, a desire to forge his own path and step out of the shadow of his illustrious family.

The turning point came during a particularly brutal winter. News arrived from the capital that D’Hara, a distant realm on the continent of Dwilight, was seeking skilled individuals to bolster their ranks. The king of D’Hara, a relative of the king of Nothoi, had extended an invitation to the Highvale family. Aric, recognizing Cedric’s desire for adventure and his potential as a leader, suggested that he take up this opportunity.

“Cedric,” Aric began one evening, his voice thoughtful, “D’Hara is a land of untamed beauty and potential. The king there is known to us, and he seeks to bolster his realm with men of honor and skill. You could build a new life there, manage an estate, and create a legacy that rivals our own here in Beluaterra.”

Thaddeus, their father, agreed. “Son,” he said, placing a reassuring hand on Cedric’s shoulder, “your talents are unparalleled. The people of D’Hara could benefit greatly from your leadership, and you could establish a name for yourself that will be remembered for generations.”

Cedric, though torn between his loyalty to his family and his desire for new horizons, saw the wisdom in their words. He knew that this opportunity was a rare and precious one, a chance to expand the Highvale influence and forge a new path for himself.

The Journey to Dwilight

With a mixture of excitement and trepidation, Cedric agreed to the plan. He bid farewell to his family, each of whom gave him tokens of their affection and reminders of home. Aric presented him with a finely crafted sword crafted by their grandfather, symbolizing their bond and the strength of their family. Gareth, their younger brother, gifted him a set of detailed maps of Dwilight, his sharp mind always considering the strategic aspects of any journey.

Cedric’s journey across the Western Ocean was fraught with peril. The sea was merciless, its waves crashing against the hull of the ship with relentless fury. Cedric stood steadfast at the bow, his eyes fixed on the horizon, his heart filled with resolve. He knew that his destiny lay beyond the tumultuous waters, in a land where he could forge a new legacy.

Upon his arrival in the harbor city of Paisly, Cedric was struck by the stark contrast between the rugged lands of his home and the majestic beauty of Dwilight. The city was alive with activity, its streets bustling with merchants and travelers from distant lands. Cedric made his way through the throngs of people, his heart pounding with anticipation.

Establishing His Presence in D’Hara

In Paisly, Cedric was welcomed by the Duke of Paisly’s emissary, who had been expecting his arrival. The emissary guided him through the city, explaining the intricate history and culture of D’Hara. Cedric listened intently, absorbing every detail, his mind already racing with plans for his new life.

Cedric’s potential was quickly recognized, and he was granted the title of knight, entrusted with managing an estate within the city. The estate was vast and complex, offering both challenges and opportunities. Cedric set about learning the ways of his new home, forging alliances with local nobiliy, and establishing his presence. Despite the new environment, Cedric’s heart remained connected to his roots. He continued to correspond with his family, sharing tales of his adventures across the ocean and seeking their counsel. The bond between the Highvale brothers remained strong, each of them striving to uphold the values of honor and duty instilled in them by their father.

A New Chapter

Cedric’s journey to Dwilight was just the beginning of his adventures. As he settled into his role, he knew that many challenges lay ahead—unknown lands to explore, political intrigues to navigate, and threats both human and monstrous to face. His journey had only just begun, and the legacy of the Highvale family was poised to grow even further, stretching across continents and into the annals of history.

Cedric Highvale, with his strength, skill, and unwavering determination, stood ready to carve out a new chapter in the tale of his family. In the lands of D’Hara, Cedric would forge his own destiny, leaving an indelible mark on the world and ensuring that the name Highvale would be remembered for generations to come.

Battles Fought

These battles are presented in chronological order:

Fought as a Knight of Paisly

Battle of Paisly (June 11, 2024)

First Battle of Celtiberia (June 14, 2024)

Second Battle of Celtiberia (June 14, 2024)

Third Battle of Celtiberia (June 16, 2024)